Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• A hundred-thousand-strong Devil Race army has invaded Great Zhou, targeting and massacring the Chi Clan, a powerful family under the Western Patrol Envoy.
• The Western Patrol Envoy, Xi Qiangu, and his subordinate, Wei Gang, are desperate to find the army and stop them before the military deadline expires.
• The Devil Race army moves incredibly fast, covering vast distances in short periods, raising suspicions about their methods and origins.
• Xi Qiangu and Wei Gang suspect that Ye Zhen, their rival, might be connected to the invasions, and they decide to investigate this lead.

Character Developments

• Xi Qiangu: Becomes increasingly desperate and anxious as the deadline looms, showing his vulnerability and fear of failure.
• Wei Gang: Demonstrates analytical skills and strategic thinking, suspecting Ye Zhen's involvement and suggesting they investigate.
• Chi Jingshan: Left Attendant of the Western Patrol Envoy, shows grief and shock upon learning about the extermination of his clan.

Significant Themes

• Power and Control: Xi Qiangu's struggle to maintain control over the situation highlights the theme of power and its limitations.
• Manipulation and Suspicion: The Devil Race army's targeted attacks on specific families raise questions about manipulation and hidden forces at work.
• Loyalty and Betrayal: The potential involvement of Ye Zhen, a former ally, in the invasions explores themes of loyalty and betrayal.

Character Interactions

• Xi Qiangu and Wei Gang: Their dynamic shifts from frustration and anxiety to strategic planning, with Wei Gang taking a more active role in decision-making.
• Xi Qiangu and Chi Jingshan: Xi Qiangu's concern for Chi Jingshan's well-being shows a level of care and loyalty, while Chi Jingshan's grief highlights the personal cost of the invasions.
• Ye Zhen and Xi Qiangu: The suspected connection between Ye Zhen and the Devil Race army raises tension between these two characters, hinting at a potential confrontation.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Benevolent Sovereign Ji Long suspects the Chi Clan's connection to the Xi Family and Western Patrol Envoy Xi Qiangu.
• An army of one hundred thousand devils silently infiltrates Great Zhou, targeting the Xi Family, raising questions about who could control such a force.
• Benevolent Sovereign Ji Long suspects Ye Zhen's involvement in the devil invasions, ordering an investigation.
• Western Patrol Envoy Xi Qiangu arrives at the Second Route Wind Patrol Office, demanding to see Ye Zhen, hinting at dereliction of duty.
• Ye Zhen returns from his seclusion, revealing he had retaliated against a 'beast,' implying his involvement in the devil invasion targeting the Xi Family.

Character Developments

• Benevolent Sovereign Ji Long demonstrates his political acumen and suspicion towards Ye Zhen.
• Grand Celestial Master Wu Yu shows his loyalty and strategic thinking in helping Ji Long weaken the Western Patrol Envoy.
• Western Patrol Envoy Xi Qiangu displays his arrogance and hostility towards Ye Zhen.
• Ye Zhen reveals his cunning and boldness in admitting his retaliation against Xi Qiangu.

Significant Themes

• Power struggle and political intrigue within the Great Zhou government.
• Retaliation and revenge as a driving force for actions.
• The consequences of underestimating one's enemies.

Character Interactions

• Benevolent Sovereign Ji Long and Grand Celestial Master Wu Yu discuss the devil invasion and plot against Western Patrol Envoy Xi Qiangu.
• Western Patrol Envoy Xi Qiangu confronts Ye Zhen, accusing him of involvement in the devil invasion targeting the Xi Family.
• Ye Zhen openly admits his retaliation against Xi Qiangu, escalating their conflict.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ye Zhen returns to North Sea Commandery after stirring up trouble against Xi Family branch families and hidden clans.
• Western Patrol Envoy Xi Qiangu arrives, suspecting Ye Zhen's involvement in the recent Devil Race incidents.
• Xi Qiangu attacks Ye Zhen, who narrowly dodges with Zi Ling's warning and Wind Flash Dash.
• Princess Changle retaliates against Xi Qiangu for his ambush on Ye Zhen, injuring him with Creation Spirit Energy.
• Ye Zhen threatens Xi Qiangu, warning him against further schemes.

Character Developments

• Ye Zhen demonstrates exceptional speed and reflexes, dodging Xi Qiangu's Dao Realm attack.
• Xi Qiangu reveals his willingness to kill Ye Zhen to cover up the Devil Race incidents.
• Princess Changle shows her prowess and retaliation against Xi Qiangu.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and corruption within the government.
• The consequences of unchecked ambition and reckless actions.
• The importance of caution and vigilance in the face of potential threats.

Character Interactions

• Ye Zhen and Xi Qiangu: Tense and hostile, with Ye Zhen threatening Xi Qiangu.
• Ye Zhen and Princess Changle: Allied, with Princess Changle protecting Ye Zhen and retaliating against Xi Qiangu.
• Xi Qiangu and Princess Changle: Adversarial, with Princess Changle injuring Xi Qiangu.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Western Patrol Envoy Xi Qiangu fails to find and eliminate the hundred thousand Devil Race troops within the given three-day deadline.
• To avoid blame, Xi Qiangu frames two Wind Patrol Envoys and Chi Jingshan, the Right Assistant, for the failure. They are sentenced to death, and their clans are punished.
• The punishment is swift and faces little resistance due to the political sensitivity of dealing with the Devil Race.
• Xi Qiangu's actions cause the Chi Clan to be nearly exterminated, leading Chi Han, the Chi Clan's Old Ancestor, to retire and devote himself to raising the remaining children.

Character Developments

• Xi Qiangu: Despite his cunning, Xi Qiangu is unable to find a solution to the Devil Race troops' disappearance. He resorts to framing others to save himself, demonstrating his ruthlessness and desperation. His actions lead to the near-extermination of the Chi Clan, causing him significant losses.
• Chi Han: After the Chi Clan's near-extermination, Chi Han retires and focuses on raising the remaining children, indicating his determination to revive his clan and his dissatisfaction with Xi Qiangu's actions.

Significant Themes

• Political Correctness vs. Incorrectness: Dealing with the Devil Race is politically correct, while failing to do so is politically incorrect. This theme is evident in the swift and severe punishment of the framed officials.
• Power Dynamics: The struggle for power and influence within the government is evident in the factions supporting each other and the difficulty in punishing Western Patrol Envoy Department's people ordinarily. However, in this instance, the political incorrectness of the situation allows for swift and severe punishment.
• Consequences of Actions: Xi Qiangu's actions to save himself lead to the near-extermination of the Chi Clan, demonstrating the severe consequences of his decisions.

Character Interactions

• Xi Qiangu and Wei Gang: Xi Qiangu relies on Wei Gang for advice and support. Wei Gang tries to console Xi Qiangu and offers suggestions on how to handle Chi Han.
• Xi Qiangu and Chi Han: Xi Qiangu's actions lead to the Chi Clan's near-extermination, causing Chi Han to retire and focus on raising the remaining children. This interaction highlights the consequences of Xi Qiangu's decisions and Chi Han's dissatisfaction with them.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Great Zhou court swiftly punishes those involved in the Devil Race army invasion.
• Two Wind Patrol Envoys are appointed to oversee the Western Patrol Envoy's office, increasing pressure on Xi Qiangu.
• The search for the hundred-thousand-strong Devil Race army continues, causing widespread panic and economic strain.
• Western Patrol Envoy Xi Qiangu visits Ye Zhen, offering a deal to resolve the situation.

Character Developments

• Western Patrol Envoy Xi Qiangu faces immense pressure and is desperate to find evidence that the Devil Race army has left to save his position.
• Ye Zhen maintains a calm and cautious demeanor during negotiations with Xi Qiangu.

Significant Themes

• The consequences of corruption and abuse of power (Xi Qiangu's precarious position within the Xi Family).
• The impact of political instability on the common people (economic strain and public resentment).
• The importance of evidence and proof in political and legal contexts.

Character Interactions

• Ye Zhen and Princess Changle enjoy a leisurely outing in North Sea Commandery City before Ye Zhen meets with Xi Qiangu.
• Ye Zhen and Xi Qiangu engage in a tense negotiation, with Xi Qiangu offering a Western Patrol Envoy Golden Token and tacit acknowledgment of Ye Zhen's independence in exchange for evidence of the Devil Race army's departure.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Grand Celestial Master Wu Yu presents an Imprint Jade Slip to Benevolent Sovereign Ji Long, showing a recording of a hundred-thousand-strong Devil Race army departing through a Vortex Light Gate.
• Ji Long orders the Imprint Jade Slip to be proclaimed to the realm, ending the public uproar over the incident.
• Ye Zhen provides Xi Qiangu with a fabricated Imprint Jade Slip to conclude the matter, and Liu Feng is sent to the Marquisate of Haiyuan to seize control of the Ancient Teleportation Array.

Character Developments

• Benevolent Sovereign Ji Long is eager to use the Third and Seventh Route Wind Patrol Offices, including Ye Zhen's, to gain leverage against the Xi Clan.
• Xi Qiangu is reprimanded by Ji Long and faces a tense atmosphere within the Western Patrol Envoy Department.
• Ye Zhen expands his influence by sending Liu Feng to the Marquisate of Haiyuan, aiming to control the Ancient Teleportation Array.

Significant Themes

• Power struggles and political intrigue within the Great Zhou government, particularly between Ji Long and the Xi Clan.
• The use of deception and manipulation to achieve political goals, as seen in Ye Zhen's fabricated Imprint Jade Slip.

Character Interactions

• Benevolent Sovereign Ji Long and Grand Celestial Master Wu Yu discuss the Devil Race incident and Ji Long's plans to use the Route Wind Patrol Offices against the Xi Clan.
• Ye Zhen and Xi Qiangu make a trade: Ye Zhen provides Xi Qiangu with the Imprint Jade Slip to end the Devil Race incident, and in return, Xi Qiangu grants Ye Zhen governing authority over the Marquisate of Haiyuan.
• Ye Zhen sends Liu Feng to the Marquisate of Haiyuan to seize control of the Ancient Teleportation Array, demonstrating Ye Zhen's growing influence and ambition.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Marquisate of Haiyuan possesses an Ancient Teleportation Array, crucial for strategic and commercial reasons.
• Ye Zhen seeks control over this array to strengthen his territory's defense and gain commercial advantages.
• Xi Qiangu, despite his previous animosity, compromises and allows Ye Zhen to take control, due to immense pressure.
• Ye Zhen plans to use the array to expand his forces' influence and go in search of Caiyi after settling minor issues.
• Before leaving, Ye Zhen receives an urgent message from the Marquisate of Haiyuan's Deputy Wind Patrol Envoy, Liu Feng.
• Mu Xu, Hall Master of the Wood Hall of the Heaven Temple, arrives to meet Ye Zhen.

Character Developments

• Ye Zhen demonstrates strategic thinking and decisiveness in seizing the Ancient Teleportation Array opportunity.
• Xi Qiangu shows political acumen by compromising to maintain his position, despite personal loss.
• Ye Zhen's determination to awaken Little Demon grows, indicating his commitment to her well-being and their bond.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and political maneuvering among factions and individuals.
• The strategic importance of Ancient Teleportation Arrays in the realm's political and economic landscape.
• The theme of compromise and its role in maintaining balance and avoiding further conflict.

Character Interactions

• Ye Zhen and Xi Qiangu's relationship shifts from hostile to cautious, with a temporary truce.
• Ye Zhen's subordinates, such as Feng Jiumo and Gu Tieqi, maintain loyalty and keep him informed of important developments.
• Ye Zhen's interactions with Mu Xu, Hall Master of the Heaven Temple, hint at potential alliances or conflicts yet to be revealed.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Mu Xu, Wood Hall Master of the Heaven Temple, visits Ye Zhen to complete their previous trade and discuss establishing a Heaven Temple branch hall in North Sea Commandery.
• Ye Zhen receives the Wood Vein Divine Whisker, a mid-grade wood-element Acquired Spirit Treasure, as part of the trade.
• Ye Zhen refuses Mu Xu's proposal to establish a Heaven Temple branch hall due to his allegiance to Benevolent Sovereign Ji Long and his position as Left Grand Chief Priest of the Barbarian Spirit Hall.
• Ye Zhen arrives in Haiyuan Prefecture City to take over the Ancient Teleportation Array but faces resistance from the local officials, leading to a small-scale conflict.

Character Developments

• Mu Xu shows respect and courtesy towards Ye Zhen, indicating the Heaven Temple's recognition of his power and influence.
• Ye Zhen remains steadfast in his loyalty to Benevolent Sovereign Ji Long and the Barbarian Spirit Hall, refusing Mu Xu's offer to join the Heaven Temple.
• Liu Feng, Ye Zhen's deputy envoy, demonstrates his loyalty and willingness to follow orders, even in the face of resistance from local officials.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and political alliances: Ye Zhen navigates his relationships with the Heaven Temple, Benevolent Sovereign Ji Long, and the Barbarian Spirit Hall, highlighting the complex political landscape of the Great Zhou Empire.
• Loyalty and integrity: Ye Zhen adheres to his principles and refuses Mu Xu's offer, showing his commitment to his current alliances and refusing to be swayed by potential benefits.
• The consequences of resistance: The local officials of the Marquisate of Haiyuan face Ye Zhen's wrath after resisting his orders, demonstrating the potential repercussions of defying a powerful figure like Ye Zhen.

Character Interactions

• Mu Xu and Ye Zhen: Their interaction showcases the Heaven Temple's interest in Ye Zhen's growing influence and power, as well as Mu Xu's respect for Ye Zhen's position and integrity.
• Ye Zhen and Liu Feng: Their exchange highlights Liu Feng's loyalty and Ye Zhen's determination to assert his authority in the face of resistance from local officials.
• Ye Zhen and the local officials of the Marquisate of Haiyuan: Their impending confrontation underscores the power imbalance between Ye Zhen and the local authorities, with Ye Zhen's wrath serving as a warning against further defiance.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ye Zhen's Second Route Wind Patrol Office arrives in the Marquisate of Haiyuan to take over the Ancient Teleportation Array.
• The Marquis of Haiyuan avoids meeting them, and his troops refuse to hand over the array, leading to a clash where over 500 soldiers from Ye Zhen's office have their legs broken.
• Ye Zhen arrives and demands an explanation from Right General Wu Chong, who refuses to hand over the array without the King's decree.
• Ye Zhen demands that Wu Chong hand over 5000 soldiers to have their legs broken as retribution for his men, counting down from ten.

Character Developments

• Ye Zhen: Displayed his authority and willingness to fight for his men, showing his determination and ruthlessness.
• Liu Feng: Showed his loyalty and competence in explaining the situation to Ye Zhen.
• Wu Chong: Demonstrated his defiance and unwillingness to back down, even in the face of Ye Zhen's threats.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and the struggle for control over resources (the Ancient Teleportation Array).
• Loyalty and camaraderie among soldiers.
• The consequences of defiance and the potential for escalating conflict.

Character Interactions

• Ye Zhen and Liu Feng: Ye Zhen listens to Liu Feng's report and shows understanding of the situation.
• Ye Zhen and Wu Chong: Their interaction is tense and confrontational, with Ye Zhen issuing threats and Wu Chong refusing to back down.
• Soldiers of the North Sea Commandery and the Marquisate of Haiyuan: The soldiers on both sides show strong loyalty and fighting spirit, with the soldiers of the North Sea Commandery eager for a fight to avenge their injured comrades.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ye Zhen, the Wind Patrol Envoy, counts down to a battle, pressuring Wu Chong, the Right General of the Marquisate of Haiyuan.
• North Sea Commandery's army prepares repeating crossbows, while the Marquisate of Haiyuan raises a defensive formation.
• Ye Zhen orders an attack, using Heavenly Patrol Divine Hunters' Flame Spirit Demon-Exploding Crossbows to breach the defensive formation.
• North Sea Commandery's army bombards the Marquisate of Haiyuan's forces, causing heavy casualties.
• Ye Zhen's Ritual Guards, led by two World King Realm priests, capture or kill the Marquisate of Haiyuan's mid-ranking officers.
• Marshal Zheng Dangshi leads North Sea Commandery's army to capture the remaining Marquisate of Haiyuan's soldiers, taking five thousand prisoners and breaking their legs as ordered by Ye Zhen.

Character Developments

• Ye Zhen: Shows decisive leadership, strategic planning, and formidable Soul Power, suppressing Wu Chong and instilling fear.
• Wu Chong: Initially confident, he becomes increasingly fearful and compliant under Ye Zhen's pressure, ultimately unable to protect his army.
• Marshal Zheng Dangshi: Demonstrates military prowess and loyalty, effectively leading North Sea Commandery's army to victory.

Significant Themes

• Power Dynamics: Ye Zhen's superior power and strategy dominate the battle, while Wu Chong's army crumbles due to his lack of control and protection.
• Loyalty and Discipline: North Sea Commandery's army fights effectively due to their loyalty to Ye Zhen and their discipline, while the Marquisate of Haiyuan's army collapses due to their leaders' inaction and lack of protection.

Character Interactions

• Ye Zhen and Wu Chong: Their interaction is one of power struggle, with Ye Zhen exerting dominance and Wu Chong becoming increasingly submissive.
• Ye Zhen and Marshal Zheng Dangshi: They work together, with Ye Zhen providing strategy and support, and Zheng Dangshi leading the army to victory.
• North Sea Commandery and Marquisate of Haiyuan: The interaction between these two armies results in a decisive victory for North Sea Commandery, with the Marquisate of Haiyuan's army suffering heavy casualties and surrendering.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Guo Zhang, the Marquis of Haiyuan, discusses strategies with his officials, including a eunuch named Manager Mao, who is confident in dealing with Ye Zhen, the Second Route Wind Patrol Envoy.
• Ye Zhen attacks the Ancient Teleportation Array, killing and capturing many of Haiyuan's soldiers, and begins breaking the legs of captives to avenge the Heavenly Patrol Division's men.
• Guo Zhang, along with the Imperial Guard, State Preceptor Xuanzhi, and Manager Mao, heads to the Ancient Teleportation Array to confront Ye Zhen.

Character Developments

• Guo Zhang: Shows hatred towards Ye Zhen, blaming him for his father's death. He is enraged by Ye Zhen's actions and vows to confront him.
• Manager Mao: Confident in dealing with Ye Zhen, he encourages Guo Zhang to provoke him. He is a trusted confidant of First Prince Ji Ao, Prince Huan.
• Ye Zhen: Remains arrogant and defiant, even in the face of Guo Zhang's arrival. He continues to break the legs of captives, showing no signs of stopping.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and political intrigue: The interactions between Guo Zhang, Manager Mao, and Ye Zhen highlight the complex power dynamics and political maneuvering in the story.
• Hatred and revenge: Guo Zhang's hatred towards Ye Zhen, stemming from his father's death, drives his actions and decisions.
• Arrogance and defiance: Ye Zhen's behavior showcases his disregard for authority and willingness to challenge those in power.

Character Interactions

• Guo Zhang and Manager Mao: They work together, with Manager Mao encouraging Guo Zhang to confront Ye Zhen.
• Guo Zhang and Ye Zhen: Their interaction is tense and hostile, with Guo Zhang demanding an explanation and Ye Zhen showing no deference.
• Ye Zhen and the captives: Ye Zhen orders the breaking of the captives' legs, showing no mercy or remorse.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Marquis of Haiyuan's troops surround the Heavenly Patrol Division, intending to capture them.
• Ye Zhen, instead of fighting, offers to explain, but secretly records the scene using array discs and an Imprint Jade Slip.
• State Preceptor Xuanzhi, hired by the Marquisate, tries to seize the Imprint Jade Slip but is deterred by Ye Zhen's sacrificial guards.
• Guo Zhang, Marquis of Haiyuan, urges State Preceptor Xuanzhi to act, but he refuses, returns the offerings, and resigns from his post.

Character Developments

• Ye Zhen demonstrates quick thinking and cunning, outsmarting the Marquisate of Haiyuan.
• Guo Zhang, Marquis of Haiyuan, shows poor judgment and rashness, leading to his plan backfiring.
• State Preceptor Xuanzhi, initially willing to act for the Marquisate, decides to prioritize his own safety and leaves when faced with the Ancestral God Hall's threat.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and political maneuvering: Ye Zhen uses the Heavenly Patrol Division's authority and the Ancestral God Hall's reputation to outmaneuver the Marquisate of Haiyuan.
• Loyalty and betrayal: State Preceptor Xuanzhi betrays the Marquisate of Haiyuan when he realizes the risk is too great.
• Consequences of actions: Guo Zhang's impulsive decision to surround the Heavenly Patrol Division leads to severe repercussions.

Character Interactions

• Ye Zhen outwits Guo Zhang, Marquis of Haiyuan, using his quick thinking and the Ancestral God Hall's reputation.
• State Preceptor Xuanzhi's refusal to act against Ye Zhen leads to a tense standoff, ultimately resulting in his resignation.
• Guo Zhang's desperate attempts to salvage the situation fail due to his poor judgment and State Preceptor Xuanzhi's refusal to act.

Key Plot Points and Events

• State Preceptor Xuanzhi, a Dao Realm expert, leaves the Marquisate of Haiyuan due to Ye Zhen's identities (Left Grand Chief Priest of the Barbarian Spirit Hall and Inheritance Divine Envoy).
• Guo Zhang, Marquis of Haiyuan, tries to persuade Xuanzhi to stay but fails.
• Ye Zhen decides to invite Xuanzhi to North Sea Commandery.
• Ye Zhen orders the evidence against the Marquisate of Haiyuan to be sent to the Western Patrol Envoy and the Heavenly Patrol Division's central headquarters.
• Manager Mao, from Prince Huan's Estate, appears and acknowledges Ye Zhen.

Character Developments

• Guo Zhang: Realizes the power of Ye Zhen's identities and the consequences of his actions.
• State Preceptor Xuanzhi: Shows fear of Ye Zhen's power and decides to stay to avoid potential conflict.
• Ye Zhen: Demonstrates his strategic thinking by inviting Xuanzhi to North Sea Commandery and understanding the political dynamics between the Marquisate of Haiyuan and Prince Huan.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and politics: The struggle for power and influence between the imperial princes, the Heavenly Patrol Division, and the local fiefdoms.
• Respect and obedience: The title of the chapter suggests that respect is more important than blind obedience, as seen in Xuanzhi's decision to stay and listen to Ye Zhen.

Character Interactions

• Ye Zhen and Guo Zhang: Their interaction highlights the power imbalance between them, with Ye Zhen holding the upper hand.
• Ye Zhen and State Preceptor Xuanzhi: Their interaction shows Xuanzhi's fear of Ye Zhen's power and Ye Zhen's ability to invite Xuanzhi to North Sea Commandery.
• Ye Zhen and Manager Mao: Their interaction reveals the connection between the Marquisate of Haiyuan and Prince Huan, and Ye Zhen's understanding of the political landscape.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Manager Mao of Prince Huan's Estate intervenes, asking Ye Zhen to give them face and set aside the matter of the broken legs of Ye's patrol guards.
• Ye Zhen destroys the Imprint Jade Slip but insists on an explanation from Marquis Guo for occupying the Ancient Teleportation Array and attacking the Heavenly Patrol Division forces.
• Manager Mao and Guo Zhang refuse to hand over the Ancient Teleportation Array, claiming Prince Huan has already taken it over.
• Ye Zhen warns them not to bring ruin upon themselves.

Character Developments

• Ye Zhen: Shows political acumen by keeping the Succession Struggle at a respectful distance while protecting his interests. He is determined to develop his own forces and strength.
• Guo Zhang, Marquis of Haiyuan: Initially unyielding, he becomes more cautious after State Preceptor Xuanzhi resigns and realizes Ye Zhen's power.
• Manager Mao of Prince Huan's Estate: Confident in Prince Huan's power, he underestimates Ye Zhen and refuses to back down.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and political maneuvering in the Succession Struggle.
• The importance of one's own strength and forces in maintaining power and influence.
• The consequences of underestimating opponents.

Character Interactions

• Ye Zhen and Manager Mao: Their interaction shows Ye Zhen's political prowess and Manager Mao's overconfidence in Prince Huan's power.
• Ye Zhen and Guo Zhang: Ye Zhen's firm stance makes Guo Zhang more cautious and willing to negotiate.
• Guo Zhang and Manager Mao: They work together, with Manager Mao using Prince Huan's influence to pressure Ye Zhen and Guo Zhang.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ye Zhen and Liu Feng discuss their next move regarding the Ancient Teleportation Array in Haiyuan City.
• Ye Zhen reveals his plan to force Guo Zhang, Marquis of Haiyuan, to hand over the Teleportation Token.
• Ye Zhen orders Liu Feng to request the confidential patrol archives (black ledgers) from the Western Patrol Envoy Department.
• Xi Qiangu, the Western Patrol Envoy, agrees to provide the archives, seeing an opportunity to create an enemy for their rival, Ye Zhen.

Character Developments

• Ye Zhen demonstrates his strategic thinking and ruthlessness in manipulating the situation to his advantage.
• Liu Feng shows understanding of the Heavenly Patrol Division's methods and loyalty to Ye Zhen.
• Xi Qiangu, the Western Patrol Envoy, reveals his political acumen by using Ye Zhen's actions to create a potential enemy for him.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and manipulation: Characters use their influence and resources to control and manipulate others.
• Alliances and enemies: Characters form alliances based on shared interests and create enemies to further their goals.
• Information as power: The confidential patrol archives (black ledgers) serve as a tool to control and blackmail officials and nobles.

Character Interactions

• Ye Zhen and Liu Feng: They work together, with Ye Zhen giving orders and Liu Feng executing them.
• Ye Zhen and Xi Qiangu: Though not directly interacting, their actions reflect their mutual understanding of the political landscape and their desire to gain an advantage over each other.
• Liu Feng and Ma Yuanjin: Liu Feng requests the confidential patrol archives from Ma Yuanjin, who then seeks instructions from Xi Qiangu.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ye Zhen, using the Heavenly Patrol Division's secret files, targets and arrests corrupt officials in the Marquisate of Haiyuan, starting with the Minister of Rites.
• He tasks Liu Feng with arresting high-ranking officials according to the inspection files, providing him with two hundred sacrificial guards and Heavenly Patrol General Feng Jiumo for support.
• Ye Zhen meets with Master Xuanzhi, a Dao Realm expert, to discuss retaining him as a patron.

Character Developments

• Ye Zhen demonstrates his authority and power, showing no mercy to corrupt officials.
• Master Xuanzhi witnesses the Heavenly Patrol Division's might and Ye Zhen's authority, deciding to negotiate with Ye Zhen for patronage.

Significant Themes

• Corruption among officials and the power dynamics within the Marquisate of Haiyuan.
• The value and importance of Dao Realm experts as patrons, and the resources required to retain them.
• The negotiation and agreement between Ye Zhen and Master Xuanzhi, highlighting their mutual interests and needs.

Character Interactions

• Ye Zhen and Liu Feng: Ye Zhen entrusts Liu Feng with the task of arresting corrupt officials, providing him with necessary support.
• Ye Zhen and Master Xuanzhi: They discuss the possibility of Master Xuanzhi serving as a patron for Ye Zhen's North Sea Commandery and the Second Route Wind Patrol Office. Their negotiation focuses on the resources required and the benefits for both parties.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ye Zhen learns that Soul Oaths are more psychological than physically binding, especially for Dao Realm experts.
• Master Xuan Zhi is offered a Soul Oath by Ye Zhen in exchange for his service, with increased Spirit Void Fruits as incentive.
• Ye Zhen increases the offer to fifteen Spirit Void Fruits, persuading Master Xuan Zhi to swear the Soul Oath.
• News of mass arrests by the Heavenly Patrol Division in Haiyuan City reaches the Marquisate of Haiyuan's royal palace.

Character Developments

• Ye Zhen demonstrates his understanding of Soul Oaths and their limitations, using them strategically to secure Master Xuan Zhi's service.
• Master Xuan Zhi, initially hesitant due to the Soul Oath's restrictions, is swayed by the allure of fifteen Spirit Void Fruits and swears the oath.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics and limitations of Soul Oaths.
• The scarcity and value of Spirit Void Fruits, and their impact on cultivation.
• The strategic use of incentives and oaths to secure alliances and services.

Character Interactions

• Ye Zhen and Master Xuan Zhi engage in negotiations, with Ye Zhen using his knowledge of Soul Oaths and the value of Spirit Void Fruits to persuade Master Xuan Zhi to swear the oath.
• The Heavenly Patrol Division's actions in Haiyuan City are indirectly related to Ye Zhen's earlier decisions, showing the rippling effects of his actions.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Guo Zhang, Marquis of Haiyuan, hosts Manager Mao from Prince Huan's Estate, then clashes with Ye Zhen, Second Route Wind Patrol Envoy.
• The Heavenly Patrol Division, led by Liu Feng, arrests all the high ministers of the Marquisate of Haiyuan on various charges, paralyzing the government.
• Guo Zhang realizes the severity of the situation and decides to invite Ye Zhen to discuss a solution.

Character Developments

• Guo Zhang, initially confident and arrogant, becomes exhausted, stressed, and fearful as the situation spirals out of his control.
• Manager Mao, though not a main character, plays a significant role in instigating the conflict and causing Guo Zhang's downfall.
• Liu Feng, deputy envoy of the Second Route Wind Patrol Office, demonstrates the power and efficiency of the Heavenly Patrol Division.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics between the Heavenly Patrol Division and the local governments.
• The corruption and vulnerability of local officials.
• The consequences of underestimating one's opponents.

Character Interactions

• Guo Zhang interacts with Manager Mao, initially trying to please him but growing increasingly irritated and stressed.
• Guo Zhang clashes with Ye Zhen, showing his arrogance and underestimation of Ye Zhen's power.
• Guo Zhang's relationship with his high ministers deteriorates as they are all arrested, leaving him isolated and desperate.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Manager Mao of Prince Huan's Estate visits Guo Zhang, Marquis of Haiyuan, to negotiate about the profits from Haiyuan City's Ancient Teleportation Array.
• Ye Zhen, the Second Route Wind Patrol Envoy, refuses to meet Manager Mao and threatens him with his subordinates' strength.
• Manager Mao offers Ye Zhen a deal: the Second Route Wind Patrol Office takes 20% of the profits, the Marquisate of Haiyuan takes 10%, and Prince Huan's Estate takes the remaining 70%.
• Ye Zhen counteroffers: the Second Route Wind Patrol Office takes 70%, and the remaining 30% is distributed between the Marquisate of Haiyuan and Prince Huan's Estate.
• Manager Mao refuses and orders his men to release the prisoners arrested by Ye Zhen's office, leading to a tense standoff.

Character Developments

• Ye Zhen: Shows arrogance and confidence in his strength, willing to stand up to Prince Huan's Estate. He values the Heavenly Patrol Division's interests and is not afraid to make enemies.
• Manager Mao: Displayed arrogance and greed, underestimating Ye Zhen's resolve and strength. He relies on Prince Huan's power and the Golden Token to intimidate others.

Significant Themes

• Power Dynamics: The struggle for power and influence between the Heavenly Patrol Division, Prince Huan's Estate, and the Marquisate of Haiyuan.
• Greed and Arrogance: Manager Mao's greed leads him to underestimate Ye Zhen, while his arrogance causes him to act presumptuously.

Character Interactions

• Ye Zhen and Manager Mao: Their interaction highlights the power struggle and tension between the Heavenly Patrol Division and Prince Huan's Estate. Ye Zhen's refusal to back down and Manager Mao's overconfidence lead to a tense standoff.
• Ye Zhen and Master Xuan Zhi: Ye Zhen's trust in Master Xuan Zhi is evident, as he allows him to act on his behalf and is willing to listen to his advice.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Manager Mao of Prince Huan's Estate presents a golden token, implying it's from the First Prince, Prince Huan.
• Ye Zhen, a Wind Patrol Envoy, hesitates to act due to the token's implications.
• Manager Mao threatens Ye Zhen, releasing prisoners, and demands Ye Zhen kneel and acknowledge him as godfather.
• Ye Zhen contacts Grand Supervisor of the Inner Palace Yu Chaoen using a Mother-Child Conch.
• Yu Chaoen's men arrive within half an hour, confirming Manager Mao's fears.

Character Developments

• Ye Zhen: Starts as cautious due to the token but becomes resolute when Manager Mao oversteps. He seeks advice from Yu Chaoen, showing wisdom in handling the situation.
• Manager Mao: Initially arrogant and threatening, he becomes terrified when Yu Chaoen's men arrive, showing his true cowardice.

Significant Themes

• Power Dynamics: The token represents the power of the First Prince, which Manager Mao uses to threaten Ye Zhen. However, Yu Chaoen's influence supersedes this, showing the complex power dynamics within the palace.
• Courage vs. Cowardice: Ye Zhen shows courage in standing up to Manager Mao, while Manager Mao reveals his cowardice when faced with the consequences of his actions.

Character Interactions

• Ye Zhen & Manager Mao: Their interaction is tense, with Manager Mao threatening Ye Zhen and Ye Zhen remaining calm and collected, ultimately outmaneuvering Manager Mao.
• Ye Zhen & Yu Chaoen: Though not physically present, their interaction shows trust and mutual respect, with Yu Chaoen supporting Ye Zhen and sending men to handle the situation.