Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Myriad Beasts Sect releases the captured Shangqing Sect members, including Tang Yi, after questioning them about the Rakshasa Tide incident.
• The Myriad Beasts Sect apologizes and offers compensation to the Shangqing Sect for the misunderstanding.
• Niu Youdao returns safely from the Illusion Realm, surprising the Shangqing Sect members.
• Niu Youdao accuses Chao Jing of capturing Tang Yi due to her beauty, not the Rakshasa Tide incident.

Character Developments

• Tang Yi: Stands up for herself and her sect's dignity, refuses to accept Niu Youdao's insinuations about Chao Jing's intentions.
• Niu Youdao: Shows concern for Tang Yi's well-being, despite his initial disregard for her. His interaction with Silver Child reveals his patience and tolerance.
• Chao Jing: Revealed to be a lecherous cultivator who targeted Tang Yi for her beauty.
• Xi Haitang (Myriad Beasts Sect Master): Disciplines Chao Jing for his actions and releases the Shangqing Sect members to maintain the sect's reputation.

Significant Themes

• Reputation and honor in the cultivation world.
• The consequences of acting on personal desires (Chao Jing's actions).
• The power dynamics between sects and the importance of maintaining relationships (Wu Zhaoxing's intervention).

Character Interactions

• Tang Yi and Niu Youdao: Their interaction is tense, with Niu Youdao accusing Tang Yi of being naive about Chao Jing's intentions, while Tang Yi defends her innocence.
• Tang Yi and the Shangqing Sect members: They support each other and stand united against the Myriad Beasts Sect's actions.
• Niu Youdao and Silver Child: Their dynamic shows Niu Youdao's patience and tolerance, as he yields to Silver Child's demands.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Niu Youdao refuses to help Shangqing Sect, citing past grievances and their lack of listening to his advice.
• Tang Susu, the Sect Master, kneels before Niu Youdao to apologize and beg for his help, acknowledging her past mistakes.
• Zhao Xiongge, the mastermind behind the scenes, arrives at Myriad Beasts Sect. He learns about the incident at Shangqing Sect and decides to meet with Niu Youdao to explain his actions.

Character Developments

• Niu Youdao: Maintains his composure and refuses to help Shangqing Sect until his demands are met. He is moved by Tang Susu's apology and agrees to consider helping Shangqing Sect.
• Tang Susu: Realizes the gravity of the situation and apologizes to Niu Youdao, demonstrating her willingness to set aside her pride for the sake of Shangqing Sect.
• Zhao Xiongge: Recognizes Niu Youdao's cunning and decides to reveal himself to prevent further complications. He shows concern for Shangqing Sect's well-being.

Significant Themes

• Pride and humility: Tang Susu's pride is challenged when she kneels before Niu Youdao, while Niu Youdao's pride is tested when he accepts her apology.
• Past mistakes and consequences: Both Niu Youdao and Tang Susu grapple with the consequences of their past actions, which have led to the current situation.
• Manipulation and deception: Zhao Xiongge's plan to use Niu Youdao against Shangqing Sect backfires, forcing him to reveal himself and address the situation directly.

Character Interactions

• Niu Youdao and Tang Susu: Their interaction highlights the tension between them, with Niu Youdao refusing to help until Tang Susu apologizes and demonstrates her humility.
• Zhao Xiongge and Tu Han: Zhao Xiongge shares his thoughts on Niu Youdao's cunning and decides to meet with him to explain his actions, showing his concern for Shangqing Sect's well-being.
• Niu Youdao and Guan Fangyi: Guan Fangyi observes Niu Youdao's struggle with the situation and encourages him to give a clear answer to Shangqing Sect's plea for help.

Plot Points and Events

• Tu Han, a Shangqing Sect disciple, is sent by Zhao Xiongge to invite Niu Youdao to meet him.
• Niu Youdao, initially reluctant, agrees to meet Zhao Xiongge, accompanied by Silver Child and Tu Han.
• They meet Zhao Xiongge, who attacks Silver Child, injuring her. Niu Youdao is shocked by Zhao Xiongge's actions and Silver Child's vulnerability.
• Zhao Xiongge questions Niu Youdao about Silver Child, but Niu Youdao refuses to explain.

Character Developments

• Niu Youdao: Shows concern for Silver Child's well-being, despite her constant presence and mysterious nature.
• Zhao Xiongge: Reveals a softer side, expressing disapproval of harming the innocent. His true strength and intentions remain unclear.
• Silver Child: Demonstrates vulnerability and lack of combat skills, contradicting her previous behavior.

Significant Themes

• The theme of deception and true intentions continues, with both Niu Youdao and Zhao Xiongge hiding their true motives.
• The power dynamics between men and women are explored, with Silver Child's vulnerability challenging Niu Youdao's chivalry.

Character Interactions

• Niu Youdao and Zhao Xiongge: Their interaction is tense and confusing, with Zhao Xiongge's actions and words contradicting his fearsome reputation.
• Niu Youdao and Silver Child: Niu Youdao's concern for Silver Child's well-being suggests a growing bond, despite his initial reluctance to accept her presence.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Xiongge confronts Niu Youdao, demanding he help the Shangqing Sect.
• Niu Youdao reveals his resolve to let go of the Shangqing Sect and forge his own path.
• Zhao Xiongge learns about Niu Youdao's past and the true nature of the Demon Cult member protecting Matchmaker.
• Silver Child is revealed to possess demonic power, and Zhao Xiongge takes her away.
• The entrance to the Butterfly Dream Illusory Realm remains open, causing concern among the Myriad Beasts Sect.

Character Developments

• Niu Youdao: He admits his connection to the Shangqing Sect but reveals his intention to forge his own path, prioritizing his own interests over the sect's. He shows cunning and persuasiveness in dealing with Zhao Xiongge.
• Zhao Xiongge: He initially demands Niu Youdao's help but is persuaded by Niu Youdao's arguments. He shows concern for the Shangqing Sect's people and reveals his past connection to Tu Han.
• Silver Child: It's revealed she possesses demonic power, a rare and powerful ability in the Demon Cult.

Significant Themes

• Loyalty vs. Self-Interest: Niu Youdao prioritizes his own interests over the Shangqing Sect's, while Zhao Xiongge remains loyal to the sect and its people.
• Destruction and Rebirth: Niu Youdao believes in the necessity of destruction for new establishment, while Zhao Xiongge is more attached to the existing order.

Character Interactions

• Niu Youdao and Zhao Xiongge: They engage in a tense conversation, with Niu Youdao persuading Zhao Xiongge to accept his perspective on the Shangqing Sect's future.
• Zhao Xiongge and Tu Han: Zhao Xiongge reveals Tu Han's past to Niu Youdao, showing trust in his former disciple.
• Niu Youdao and Silver Child: Niu Youdao attempts to kill Silver Child but is interrupted by her sudden awakening.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Guan Fangyi discovers Niu Youdao's secretive behavior and follows him, witnessing him bring back an injured Silver Child (Sacred Rakshasa).
• Niu Youdao reveals that Zhao Xiongge injured Silver Child, shocking Guan Fangyi.
• Niu Youdao and Guan Fangyi plan to act against their target the next morning.
• Lu Shengzhong overhears a conversation about Niu Youdao and Chao Shenghuai being together, senses danger, and decides to leave Myriad Phenomena City.
• Niu Youdao ambushes Lu Shengzhong in the mountains, revealing his eerie smile.

Character Developments

• Niu Youdao: Shows concern for Silver Child's well-being, keeps her secret, and plans an ambush for Lu Shengzhong.
• Guan Fangyi: Shows curiosity and disbelief about Zhao Xiongge's strength and the mysterious protector from her past.
• Lu Shengzhong: Becomes wary of Niu Youdao and decides to leave Myriad Phenomena City, only to be ambushed by Niu Youdao.

Significant Themes

• Trust and deception: Niu Youdao keeps secrets from Guan Fangyi, while Lu Shengzhong suspects Niu Youdao's intentions.
• Power dynamics: Zhao Xiongge's strength surprises Guan Fangyi, and Niu Youdao's abilities are revealed to Lu Shengzhong.
• Mysteries and secrets: The true intentions behind sealing Silver Child, the connection between Niu Youdao and Chao Shenghuai, and the identity of Guan Fangyi's mysterious protector remain unclear.

Character Interactions

• Niu Youdao and Guan Fangyi: Discuss their plans and the mysterious protector from Guan Fangyi's past.
• Niu Youdao and Yuan Gang: Share the truth about Silver Child's injury and discuss the mystery surrounding her.
• Lu Shengzhong and Niu Youdao: Lu Shengzhong senses danger and tries to leave, but Niu Youdao ambushes him, revealing his eerie smile.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Shengzhong, a traitor, is confronted by Niu Youdao and his men. Despite trying to negotiate, Lu Shengzhong is killed by a fellow disciple from Five-Beam Mountain on Niu Youdao's orders.
• The Spirit Beast Convention is canceled due to an anomaly in the Butterfly Dream Illusory Realm. Myriad Beasts Sect apologizes and offers compensation to the attendees.
• Guan Fangyi learns that Uncle Chen was sent to protect her by an unknown person from the Demon Cult. Uncle Chen refuses to reveal the identity of the person who sent him.

Character Developments

• Lu Shengzhong's betrayal and subsequent death highlight the consequences of his actions and the ruthlessness of Niu Youdao and Five-Beam Mountain.
• Guan Fangyi learns about the mysterious person who has been protecting her, adding a layer of complexity to her character and relationships.
• Uncle Chen's loyalty and dedication are further emphasized, despite his refusal to reveal the identity of the person who sent him.

Significant Themes

• Consequences of betrayal and the price of one's actions.
• The power dynamics within the Demon Cult and the secrets surrounding it.
• The theme of protection and the motives behind it.

Character Interactions

• Niu Youdao and Lu Shengzhong: Their interaction showcases Niu Youdao's cunning and ruthlessness, while Lu Shengzhong's desperation and attempts to negotiate highlight his fear and desperation.
• Guan Fangyi and Uncle Chen: Their conversation reveals the mystery surrounding Uncle Chen's past and the person who sent him to protect Guan Fangyi, adding depth to their relationship.
• Uncle Chen and the unknown person from the Demon Cult: Their relationship is hinted at, adding intrigue and mystery to the story.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Uncle Chen delivers a message from an unknown person, warning Guan Fangyi against getting entangled with Niu Youdao due to his dangerous situation.
• Guan Fangyi expresses her trust in Niu Youdao and her unwillingness to leave him, comparing him favorably to her past relationships.
• Silver Child adapts to human food and asserts her territorial dominance over the dining table, driving Guan Fangyi and Yuan Fang away.
• Chao Shenghuai visits Niu Youdao in secret, and they discuss Niu Youdao's request for avian mounts from Myriad Beasts Sect.

Character Developments

• Guan Fangyi: She reveals her past experiences and her trust in Niu Youdao, showing a new level of commitment and vulnerability.
• Silver Child: She demonstrates her ability to adapt to human food and her territorial instincts, asserting her dominance over the dining table.
• Chao Shenghuai: He shows his fear of being exposed and his reluctance to help Niu Youdao obtain avian mounts, highlighting his cautious and self-preserving nature.

Significant Themes

• Trust and loyalty: Guan Fangyi's trust in Niu Youdao is a central theme, contrasting with her past experiences and the unknown person's warnings.
• Danger and risk: The unknown person's warning about Niu Youdao's dangerous situation highlights the risks involved in their relationship.
• Adaptation and change: Silver Child's adaptation to human food and her territorial behavior show her changing nature as she becomes more comfortable in her new environment.

Character Interactions

• Guan Fangyi and Uncle Chen: They exchange messages between Guan Fangyi and the unknown person, with Guan Fangyi expressing her trust in Niu Youdao.
• Guan Fangyi, Yuan Fang, and Silver Child: Their interaction at the dining table shows Silver Child's territorial behavior and her dominance over the others.
• Niu Youdao and Chao Shenghuai: They discuss Niu Youdao's request for avian mounts, with Chao Shenghuai showing his reluctance and Niu Youdao revealing his plan to create an "accident" in the Spirit Transformation Valley.

Plot Points and Events

• Niu Youdao meets with Chao Shenghuai, a disciple of Myriad Beasts Sect, to discuss a secret plan involving the sect's flying mounts.
• Niu Youdao proposes a scheme to replace dead birds with living ones during a culling process at Spirit Transformation Valley, benefiting both parties.
• Chao Shenghuai initially refuses but later agrees after Niu Youdao threatens to expose his grandfather's role in the deaths of over a hundred disciples and offers a substantial reward.

Character Developments

• Niu Youdao: Reveals his manipulative and calculating nature, using Chao Shenghuai's fear of his grandfather's downfall to coerce him into cooperation.
• Chao Shenghuai: Initially resistant, he eventually succumbs to Niu Youdao's threats and agrees to the plan, demonstrating his weakness and fear of consequences.

Significant Themes

• Manipulation and Coercion: Niu Youdao uses Chao Shenghuai's fears and desires to manipulate him into agreeing to his plan.
• Loyalty and Betrayal: Chao Shenghuai's willingness to betray his sect for personal gain highlights the theme of loyalty's fragility in the face of self-interest.

Character Interactions

• Niu Youdao and Chao Shenghuai: Their interaction showcases Niu Youdao's manipulative skills and Chao Shenghuai's weakness, leading to an agreement between them.
• Silver Child and Guan Fangyi: Both express disdain for Niu Youdao's shady dealings but remain loyal to him, indicating their complex relationship with him.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Niu Youdao invites the Shangqing Sect to discuss their future, surprising them with his warmth.
• Silver Child's unconventional behavior at the banquet causes a stir and is promptly removed.
• Niu Youdao proposes to Tang Yi: she must choose between him and the Shangqing Sect. He will only help the Sect if she chooses him.
• Tang Yi agrees to divorce Niu Youdao and accepts his help to take the Shangqing Sect to the Wei Kingdom.

Character Developments

• Niu Youdao: He decides to help the Shangqing Sect but on his terms, showing his determination to sever ties with his past and focus on his new path.
• Tang Yi: She chooses the Shangqing Sect over Niu Youdao, demonstrating her commitment to the Sect's survival despite personal cost.

Significant Themes

• Sacrifice: Both Niu Youdao and Tang Yi are willing to make personal sacrifices for their respective goals.
• Loyalty: Tang Yi's loyalty to the Shangqing Sect is tested and proven.
• New Beginnings: Niu Youdao is ready to start anew, leaving his past behind.

Character Interactions

• Niu Youdao and Tang Yi: Their tense interaction highlights the conflict between personal feelings and duty.
• Niu Youdao and Silver Child: Despite her antics, Niu Youdao shows amusement and patience with Silver Child, hinting at a growing bond.
• The Shangqing Sect members: They grapple with Niu Youdao's demands, leading to a difficult decision for Tang Yi.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Niu Youdao and his group arrive at Myriad Beasts Sect the next day.
• Guan Fangyi enters the room, flirts with Niu Youdao, and they discuss his breakup with Tang Yi.
• Niu Youdao decides to visit Myriad Beasts Sect to settle accounts with Northern Province's thieving heart.
• The group leaves the inn and heads to Myriad Beasts Sect, where they are received by Elder Qiu Shan.
• Niu Youdao meets Elder Qiu Shan and expresses his wish to meet Sect Master Xi Haitang.

Character Developments

• Niu Youdao shows strategic thinking and decisiveness in his actions, prioritizing the greater situation ahead.
• Guan Fangyi displays her flirtatious and playful nature, but ultimately follows Niu Youdao's decisions.
• Elder Qiu Shan shows courtesy and respect to Niu Youdao due to his influence over Southern Prefecture.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and influence: Niu Youdao's growing power and influence in Southern Prefecture earn him respect from outsiders like Elder Qiu Shan.
• Strategic decision-making: Niu Youdao's choices are driven by long-term goals and the greater situation at hand.
• Flirtation and banter: Guan Fangyi's playful interactions with Niu Youdao highlight their close relationship and her role as a confidante.

Character Interactions

• Niu Youdao and Guan Fangyi: Their banter and flirtatious exchange showcase their comfortable and familiar relationship.
• Niu Youdao and Elder Qiu Shan: Their interaction demonstrates the respect and courtesy shown to Niu Youdao due to his influence over Southern Prefecture.
• Niu Youdao and Yuan Gang: Yuan Gang's presence and actions show his loyalty and obedience to Niu Youdao.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Niu Youdao and his group arrive at the Myriad Beasts Sect and are escorted to their guest compound.
• Niu Youdao meets Chao Shenghuai secretly at night, and they exchange information.
• Niu Youdao plans to visit distinguished people in the Myriad Beasts Sect.
• In Northern Province, Shao Pingbo discusses the lack of news from Lu Shengzhong and his plans with Shao Sansheng.

Character Developments

• Niu Youdao: He is strategic and cunning, using the Myriad Beasts Sect's verification of his identity to put Chao Shenghuai at ease. He also shows concern for Guan Fangyi's safety.
• Chao Shenghuai: He is anxious and tense due to Niu Youdao's arrival, fearing that Niu Youdao will interfere with his plans. He is cautious and secretive in his dealings with Niu Youdao.
• Shao Pingbo: He is calculating and patient, hoping that Lu Shengzhong's lack of news means he has not been exposed. He is also wary of Niu Youdao's potential actions.

Significant Themes

• Strategic planning and deception: Both Niu Youdao and Shao Pingbo employ strategic thinking and deception to achieve their goals.
• Power dynamics: The interactions between characters highlight the power dynamics within the Myriad Beasts Sect and the broader political landscape.
• Trust and suspicion: Characters grapple with trust and suspicion, both in their relationships with others and in interpreting events.

Character Interactions

• Niu Youdao and Chao Shenghuai: Their secret meeting reveals their shared understanding of the political situation and their mutual caution.
• Niu Youdao and Guan Fangyi: Their interaction shows Niu Youdao's concern for Guan Fangyi's safety and her wariness of his intentions.
• Shao Pingbo and Shao Sansheng: Their conversation demonstrates Shao Pingbo's strategic thinking and his awareness of the broader political landscape.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Niu Youdao manipulates Tianyu Sect to oppress Shang Chaozong, pushing him into his arms and making the Shang faction dependent on him.
• Niu Youdao secures an imperial appointment for Shang Chaozong, making him the legitimate Prefect of Southern Prefecture.
• Niu Youdao's actions win him the hearts of the people in Southern Prefecture, while Tianyu Sect's actions alienate them.
• Niu Youdao leaves Southern Prefecture without concern, knowing Tianyu Sect won't act recklessly while he's gone.
• Tianyu Sect Elder Chen Tingxiu arrives at Myriad Beasts Sect, intending to see Long Xiu (Xiaoyao Sect Master) before Niu Youdao does.
• Xi Haitang (Myriad Beasts Sect Master) decides not to see either of them, leaving them hanging.

Character Developments

• Niu Youdao: Proven to be a cunning and strategic figure, manipulating events to his advantage and winning the trust of the Shang faction.
• Shang Chaozong: Driven into a desperate situation, he becomes dependent on Niu Youdao and receives an imperial appointment.
• Chen Tingxiu: Represents Tianyu Sect's arrogance and underestimation of Niu Youdao.
• Xi Haitang: Maintains neutrality in the conflict between Niu Youdao and Tianyu Sect, refusing to see either of them.

Significant Themes

• Manipulation and strategy in political conflicts.
• The importance of winning the hearts of the people.
• The consequences of underestimating one's opponents.

Character Interactions

• Niu Youdao and Shang Chaozong: Niu Youdao manipulates events to secure Shang Chaozong's loyalty.
• Niu Youdao and Tianyu Sect: Niu Youdao outmaneuvers Tianyu Sect, winning the hearts of the people in Southern Prefecture.
• Chen Tingxiu and Qiu Shan: Chen Tingxiu asks Qiu Shan to help him see Long Xiu before Niu Youdao does.
• Xi Haitang and Qiu Shan: Xi Haitang leaves the decision to Qiu Shan, who decides to help Chen Tingxiu out of self-interest.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Tianyu Sect's Elder Chen Tingxiu seeks an audience with Xiaoyao Palace's Sect Master, Long Xiu, but is refused without reason.
• Long Xiu agrees to meet Niu Youdao but not Chen Tingxiu, treating them differently despite both being from Southern Prefecture.
• Chen Tingxiu learns about Long Xiu's refusal and decides to visit Xiaoyao Palace's residence to apologize and find out why he was refused.

Character Developments

• Chen Tingxiu: He becomes anxious and concerned when he learns that Long Xiu refuses to meet him, fearing that it might reflect poorly on Tianyu Sect and potentially help Niu Youdao.
• Long Xiu: He shows arrogance and disregard for Chen Tingxiu, indicating that he only wants to meet Niu Youdao due to his interest in the young man's actions and potential.

Significant Themes

• Power Dynamics: Long Xiu's refusal to meet Chen Tingxiu highlights the power imbalance between Xiaoyao Palace and Tianyu Sect, with Long Xiu showing little respect for Chen Tingxiu.
• Interest vs. Respect: Long Xiu's interest in Niu Youdao and disregard for Chen Tingxiu suggest that he values people based on their actions and potential rather than their status or seniority.

Character Interactions

• Qiu Shan and Chen Tingxiu: Qiu Shan helps Chen Tingxiu by relaying the message about Long Xiu's refusal and offering to take him to Xiaoyao Palace's residence. However, he makes it clear that he won't help him further.
• Chen Tingxiu and Long Xiu: Though they haven't met, their interaction is tense due to Long Xiu's refusal to see Chen Tingxiu, causing the latter to feel disrespected and anxious.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Tingxiu, a Tianyu Sect elder, visits Myriad Beasts Sect to see Long Xiu, the Sect Master of Xiaoyao Palace, but is refused.
• He meets Yi Shu, Long Xiu's youngest disciple, and asks her why Long Xiu saw Niu Youdao but not him.
• Chen Tingxiu tries to sow discord by speaking ill of Niu Youdao, claiming he's arrogant and disrespectful towards Xiaoyao Palace.
• Niu Youdao is finally granted an audience with Long Xiu, and he invites Guan Fangyi to accompany him.

Character Developments

• Chen Tingxiu: He's shown to be cunning and manipulative, trying to sow discord between Niu Youdao and Xiaoyao Palace.
• Yi Shu: She's proud and confident, not easily swayed by Chen Tingxiu's words, but she does seem affected by his criticism of Niu Youdao.
• Niu Youdao: He's determined to meet Long Xiu and invites Guan Fangyi to accompany him, showing he values her opinion and presence.

Significant Themes

• Arrogance vs. Humility: Chen Tingxiu accuses Niu Youdao of being arrogant, while Niu Youdao shows humility by inviting Guan Fangyi to accompany him.
• Respect and Courtesy: Chen Tingxiu questions why Long Xiu would see Niu Youdao but not him, highlighting the importance of respect and courtesy in sect relations.

Character Interactions

• Chen Tingxiu and Yi Shu: They have a tense conversation, with Chen Tingxiu trying to manipulate Yi Shu into turning against Niu Youdao.
• Niu Youdao and Guan Fangyi: Niu Youdao invites Guan Fangyi to accompany him to meet Long Xiu, showing trust and respect for her.

Key Plot Points & Events

• Niu Youdao brings Guan Fangyi to meet Long Xiu, the Sect Master of Xiaoyao Palace, hoping her familiarity with Long Xiu will ease their conversation.
• Guan Fangyi reveals she knew Long Xiu in the past but denies any romantic involvement.
• Long Xiu receives Niu Youdao and Guan Fangyi, showing surprise and reminiscence at seeing Guan Fangyi.

Character Developments

• Guan Fangyi: Shows a more assertive and bold side, unlike her past gentle and sweet demeanor.
• Long Xiu: Reveals a hint of his past pursuit of Guan Fangyi and shows surprise at seeing her after many years.

Significant Themes

• The passage of time and change: Both Guan Fangyi and Long Xiu have changed since their first meeting.
• Familiarity and ease: Niu Youdao hopes Guan Fangyi's familiarity with Long Xiu will make their meeting easier.

Character Interactions

• Niu Youdao and Guan Fangyi: Niu Youdao brings Guan Fangyi along to meet Long Xiu, hoping her presence will help. Guan Fangyi is initially reluctant but complies.
• Guan Fangyi and Long Xiu: They reveal a past acquaintance, with Long Xiu showing surprise and reminiscence at seeing Guan Fangyi again. Guan Fangyi is more assertive and bold than in the past.
• Yi Shu and Niu Youdao: Yi Shu misinterprets Niu Youdao's actions and forms a negative opinion of him.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Niu Youdao visits Long Xiu, Sect Master of Xiaoyao Palace, accompanied by Guan Fangyi, a former matchmaker from Qi Capital.
• Long Xiu and Guan Fangyi reminisce about their past, hinting at a previous connection.
• Niu Youdao's true intentions for the visit remain unclear, but he expresses no serious matters.
• Niu Youdao and Guan Fangyi discuss their visit afterward, with Guan Fangyi revealing her cynical view of relationships in high society.
• Niu Youdao tasks his men with watching for Great Zen Mountain's disciples in Myriad Phenomena City.
• Xi Haitang, Sect Master of the Myriad Beasts Sect, learns about Niu Youdao's meeting with Long Xiu and expresses curiosity about Guan Fangyi's presence.

Character Developments

• Long Xiu: Revealed to have had a past connection with Guan Fangyi, but he downplays its significance. He shows wisdom and political acumen in his conversation with Niu Youdao.
• Guan Fangyi: Displays a jaded and pragmatic view of relationships, suggesting she has experienced much in her life. She is also quite perceptive about people's true intentions.
• Niu Youdao: Continues to play his cards close to his chest, revealing little about his true intentions. He shows a strategic mind in his conversation with Guan Fangyi and his instructions to his men.
• Xi Haitang: Reveals a past connection with Guan Fangyi, hinting at a potential weakness or interest. He shows curiosity about Niu Youdao's meeting with Long Xiu.

Significant Themes

• The past's influence on the present: Long Xiu and Guan Fangyi's past connection affects their current interaction, and Xi Haitang's past meeting with Guan Fangyi sparks his interest.
• Power dynamics and relationships: Guan Fangyi's cynical view of relationships highlights the power dynamics at play in high society, while Long Xiu's political acumen showcases the importance of power and influence.
• Strategic gameplay: Niu Youdao's actions and conversations suggest a strategic mind, playing his cards close to his chest and maneuvering behind the scenes.

Character Interactions

• Long Xiu and Guan Fangyi: Their interaction reveals a past connection and a degree of familiarity, but Long Xiu downplays its significance.
• Niu Youdao and Guan Fangyi: They discuss their visit to Long Xiu, with Guan Fangyi revealing her cynical view of relationships and Niu Youdao teasing her about their interactions.
• Niu Youdao and Yuan Gang: They discuss the situation in Myriad Phenomena City and the Myriad Beasts Sect, with Niu Youdao giving instructions to Yuan Gang.
• Xi Haitang and Qiu Shan: They discuss Niu Youdao's meeting with Long Xiu, with Xi Haitang revealing a past connection with Guan Fangyi and Qiu Shan expressing curiosity about it.

Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Qiu Shan returns to the Myriad Beasts Sect and is confronted by Chen Tingxiu, who is desperate to learn about Niu Youdao's meeting with Long Xiu.
• Qiu Shan, though annoyed, reveals only that Niu Youdao and Long Xiu met for over half an hour, then warns Chen Tingxiu not to cause trouble in the sect.
• Chen Tingxiu grows worried; his earlier scheme to turn Yi Shu against Niu Youdao appears to have failed, partly due to Guan Fangyi's unexpected interference.
• The next morning, Niu Youdao receives a secret note from Chao Shenghuai, instructing him to go to a spot with hanging vines by the stream.
• Niu Youdao befriends Zhou Tiezi, the errand disciple, and proposes becoming sworn brothers, planning to later request that the sect grant Zhou a better position.
• Niu Youdao goes to the stream, where Chao Shenghuai secretly appears behind vines to warn him about visiting Long Xiu and passing along intelligence about Chen Tingxiu's failed visit.

2. Character Developments

• Niu Youdao continues his manipulative, strategic approach: he cultivates a bond with Zhou Tiezi to secure a loyal ally and reduce risk of being reported, showing his habit of “opening roads when meeting mountains, building bridges when crossing water.”
• Zhou Tiezi reveals his lowly status, loneliness, and quiet ambition; he is flattered by Niu Youdao's attention and begins to hope for advancement.
• Chen Tingxiu becomes increasingly anxious and helpless, realizing his machinations are not working and that he is out of his depth within the Myriad Beasts Sect.
• Qiu Shan shows guardedness and a sense of propriety, but also a small willingness to help Chen Tingxiu while keeping sect boundaries.
• Chao Shenghuai operates as a covert informant, subtly testing Niu Youdao and reminding him not to act recklessly.

3. Significant Themes

• Deception and manipulation: Niu Youdao’s word and friendship are tools for control; he wins loyalty through promises and perceived kindness.
• Political maneuvering: Power struggles within and between sects, secret meetings, spies, and careful movements dominate the chapter.
• Allyship and isolation: Zhou Tiezi’s isolation makes him vulnerable to Niu Youdao’s offer; alliances are formed for survival and upward mobility.
• Uncertainty and suspicion: Characters repeatedly act on incomplete knowledge, fearing betrayal and hidden motives.

4. Character Interactions

• Qiu Shan and Chen Tingxiu: A tense, formal exchange; Qiu Shan gives a reluctant hint but warns him to stay in line.
• Niu Youdao and Zhou Tiezi: Niu Youdao flatters Zhou, learns about his background, and proposes sworn brotherhood; Zhou hesitates but is drawn in by the possibility of a better future.
• Niu Youdao and Chao Shenghuai: A covert, guarded meeting behind the vines; Chao warns Niu against reckless actions, while Niu insists he knows what he is doing and probes Chao for information.
• Chen Tingxiu’s internal reflection: Highlights the fallout of his failed scheme against Yi Shu and his growing frustration.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Niu Youdao learns that Chen Tingxiu is in the Myriad Beasts Sect and asks Chao Shenghuai to keep an eye on him.
• Niu Youdao and Guan Fangyi visit various sect leaders to discuss matters related to the Illusion Realm.
• Niu Youdao meets with the Heavenly Maiden Cult's Cult Master, while Guan Fangyi waits outside due to her complicated history with the Heavenly Maiden Cult.
• Du Yunsang and Wen Xinzhao of the Skywalking Sect visit the Heavenly Maiden Cult. Wen Xinzhao slaps Guan Fangyi twice after finding her there.

Character Developments

• Niu Youdao: Shows strategic thinking by asking Chao Shenghuai to monitor Chen Tingxiu and demonstrates respect for Guan Fangyi's past connections by allowing her to handle the sect visits.
• Guan Fangyi: Reveals her extensive network of acquaintances from her past, showing that she still holds significant influence despite her changed appearance. She remains composed even after being slapped by Wen Xinzhao.
• Wen Xinzhao: Shows her jealousy and possessiveness towards Du Yunsang, lashing out at Guan Fangyi for seeing him.

Significant Themes

• The power of connections and influence in the cultivation world.
• The consequences of past actions and the passage of time.
• Jealousy and possessiveness in relationships.

Character Interactions

• Niu Youdao and Guan Fangyi: They work together to visit sect leaders, showing mutual respect and understanding.
• Wen Xinzhao and Guan Fangyi: Their interaction highlights the tension and history between them, culminating in Wen Xinzhao slapping Guan Fangyi.
• Du Yunsang and Wen Xinzhao: Their dynamic is briefly shown, with Wen Xinzhao's possessiveness towards Du Yunsang being a significant factor in her actions.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Guan Fangyi is slapped twice by Wen Xinzhao, wife of Skywalking Sect Master Du Yunsang, while Niu Youdao is meeting the Heavenly Maiden Cult Master.
• Niu Youdao and Guan Fangyi return to their lodging, where they find Zhou Tiezi more attentive to their needs.
• Niu Youdao receives a message about Great Zen Mountain people arriving in the city and meets with Chao Shenghuai to discuss arrangements.
• Guan Fangyi is unusually quiet and does not join them for dinner.

Character Developments

• Guan Fangyi: She keeps the incident of being slapped a secret from Niu Youdao. Her reaction hints at a past relationship with Du Yunsang.
• Niu Youdao: He becomes more concerned about Guan Fangyi's well-being after learning about the incident.
• Zhou Tiezi: He shows more consideration for their needs, indicating a change in his attitude towards them.
• Chao Shenghuai: He provides information about the Great Zen Mountain people and warns Niu Youdao not to cause trouble regarding the Skywalking Sect.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and the consequences of provoking powerful sects, as seen in Guan Fangyi's decision not to pursue justice against Wen Xinzhao.
• The impact of past relationships and secrets, as hinted at in Guan Fangyi's reaction to seeing Du Yunsang and her non-disclosure of the incident to Niu Youdao.

Character Interactions

• Niu Youdao and Guan Fangyi: Their relationship remains friendly and playful, with Niu Youdao showing concern for Guan Fangyi's well-being.
• Niu Youdao and Chao Shenghuai: They maintain a working relationship, with Niu Youdao threatening Chao Shenghuai to reveal information.
• Guan Fangyi and the Myriad Beasts Sect disciples: The disciples pity Guan Fangyi after she is slapped but later mock her once they learn her identity.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Guan Fangyi (Matchmaker) was slapped twice by Wen Xinzhao, daughter of Skywalking Sect's former Sect Master, for an unknown reason.
• Niu Youdao learns about the incident and is enraged, wanting to retaliate but is advised against it by Qiu Shan from the Myriad Beasts Sect.
• The Myriad Beasts Sect offers one million in gold as an apology, but Niu Youdao refuses to accept it.
• Qiu Shan warns Niu Youdao that provoking the Skywalking Sect could lead to severe consequences, including losing Southern Prefecture's support.
• Guan Fangyi is seen sitting alone in her room, lost in thought, after Niu Youdao knocks on her door.

Character Developments

• Niu Youdao: He becomes protective of Guan Fangyi after learning about the incident, feeling guilty for forcing her to attend the gathering. He initially wants to retaliate but shows restraint after Qiu Shan's warning, demonstrating a level of maturity and self-control.
• Guan Fangyi: She remains silent and withdrawn after the incident, not wanting to discuss her past with important people. She is seen taking a bath, suggesting she might be trying to cleanse herself of the humiliation.
• Wen Xinzhao: Her actions are unexplained, but her status as the daughter of a powerful sect master is emphasized. Her actions may have been influenced by rumors about Guan Fangyi and Du Yunsang.
• Qiu Shan: He acts as a mediator, trying to prevent the situation from escalating. He is aware of the political implications and the potential consequences for Niu Youdao and the Myriad Beasts Sect.

Significant Themes

• Power Dynamics: The incident highlights the power dynamics between different sects and the consequences of provoking powerful figures.
• Reputation and Honor: The incident affects Guan Fangyi's reputation and honor, leading her to withdraw from social interactions.
• Loyalty and Protection: Niu Youdao's reaction shows his loyalty to Guan Fangyi and his desire to protect her.

Character Interactions

• Niu Youdao and Guan Fangyi: Their interaction is brief but reveals Niu Youdao's guilt and concern for Guan Fangyi, as well as her continued withdrawal.
• Niu Youdao and Qiu Shan: Their conversation emphasizes the potential consequences of Niu Youdao's actions and the Myriad Beasts Sect's attempts to maintain peace.
• Xi Haitang and Qiu Shan: Their conversation reveals their awareness of the political implications and their concern for the Myriad Beasts Sect's reputation.