Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fu Qian completes a mission and receives a mission summary and rewards.
• The mission summary reveals that the Dragon King, a self-proclaimed king, is not a dragon but an entity from the stars.
• Fu Qian receives a special reward, a weapon called Dimensional Poison, a gauntlet filled with needle-like teeth that can attach to any of his attacks and cause decaying wounds.
• Fu Qian tests the weapon and finds that it causes severe pain but slows down healing significantly, even for Deities.
• He also discovers that the weapon's origin and the Dragon King's secrets hint at the existence of Cosmic Deities in the mythological era.

Character Developments

• Fu Qian's kingly aura is acknowledged, boosting his confidence.
• He gains a new weapon, Dimensional Poison, which complements his existing abilities.
• Fu Qian's understanding of the Supernatural and the Pact deepens, leading him to a vague answer about the essence of the Pact.

Significant Themes

• The power and influence of Deities and their interactions with other entities.
• The concept of a Pact and its implications for Transcendents.
• The exploration of ancient secrets and the mythological era.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian interacts with the mission system, receiving a mission summary and rewards.
• There's no direct interaction with other characters in this chapter, but Fu Qian's thoughts and discoveries are influenced by his previous experiences and knowledge, including his interactions with Wen Li and Young Master Qin.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fu Qian, an Emissary, completes his weekly task and returns home.
• He discovers that the world's time is reversed, with sunrise appearing as sunset.
• He finds that a clock in his research tower controls time and sets it right.
• Ji Liushuang, a visitor, arrives at the research tower with Professor Lisha.

Character Developments

• Fu Qian: Shows professionalism and curiosity in investigating the time anomaly. He's also more open to Ji Liushuang's presence.
• Ji Liushuang: Displayed composure and confidence in her interaction with Fu Qian, hinting at growing feelings.

Significant Themes

• Time manipulation and its consequences.
• The power of tools and concepts in the world of Pacts.
• The potential romantic tension between Fu Qian and Ji Liushuang.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian and Ji Liushuang: Their interaction is cordial yet tense, with Ji Liushuang expressing relief at seeing Fu Qian and Fu Qian showing concern for her injury.
• Fu Qian and Professor Lisha: Their relationship is professional, with Fu Qian acknowledging her help in bringing Ji Liushuang.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fu Qian returns from his vacation to find Liu Shuang (Ji Liushuang) waiting at his tower, having noticed the unusual "lock" on the door.
• Professor Lisha, suspicious of Fu Qian's activities, invites herself to his tower to investigate.
• Fu Qian reveals that he can manipulate time, creating a barrier that even a Demigod can't breach, and offers to teach Lisha how to operate it.

Character Developments

• Fu Qian: Shows his ability to manipulate time, hinting at his other, unknown identity.
• Professor Lisha: Displayed as curious and gossipy, but maintains professionalism when teaching Fu Qian.
• Ji Liushuang: Shows understanding and patience, focusing on her studies while waiting for Fu Qian.

Significant Themes

• Power and Knowledge: Fu Qian's time-manipulation ability is a form of power, and both he and Lisha are eager to learn and understand it.
• Trust and Suspicion: Lisha's actions are driven by suspicion of Fu Qian's activities, while Fu Qian is cautious about revealing his secrets.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian and Lisha: Their interaction is tense due to Lisha's suspicion and Fu Qian's reluctance to reveal his secrets, but they maintain a semblance of respect and professionalism.
• Fu Qian and Ji Liushuang: They share a friendly, comfortable dynamic, with Ji Liushuang showing understanding and support for Fu Qian.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fu Qian suggests Ji Liushuang attempt the Willpower Dial, a challenging test that could negatively impact her state of mind.
• Ji Liushuang successfully completes the test, demonstrating her mental fortitude.
• Fu Qian offers Ji Liushuang the position of Laboratory research assistant and gives her a highly-ranked sword, 'Weaver's Limb Tip', as her internship salary.

Character Developments

• Ji Liushuang shows growth in her mental resilience and decision-making skills, choosing to face the challenge despite potential risks.
• Professor Lisha reveals her protective nature towards Ji Liushuang, showing concern for her well-being.
• Fu Qian displays his confidence in Ji Liushuang's abilities and his unconventional teaching methods.

Significant Themes

• Overcoming challenges and maintaining mental fortitude.
• The importance of making one's own judgments and decisions.
• The value of hard work and perseverance in cultivation.

Character Interactions

• Lisha and Fu Qian have a tense interaction, with Lisha warning Ji Liushuang not to be influenced by Fu Qian's decisions.
• Ji Liushuang seeks guidance from both Lisha and Fu Qian but ultimately makes her own decision to face the challenge.
• Fu Qian and Ji Liushuang have a mentor-mentee interaction, with Fu Qian offering guidance and praise for Ji Liushuang's accomplishment.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lisha, Ji Liushuang, and Fu Qian are in Fu Qian's high-end laboratory.
• Fu Qian demonstrates the use of a custom-made weapon to Lisha and Ji Liushuang.
• Fu Qian and Ji Liushuang discuss her experience with Sword Intent and its adverse effects on her.
• Fu Qian suggests Ji Liushuang should master the concept of clarity rather than becoming an incarnation of swordsmanship.
• Lisha interjects, warning Ji Liushuang about Fu Qian's influence.
• Fu Qian offers to help Lisha with her project and assigns Ji Liushuang to assist her.
• Lisha reluctantly accepts Ji Liushuang's help and leaves the laboratory.

Character Developments

• Lisha: Shows concern for Ji Liushuang's well-being and is wary of Fu Qian's influence.
• Ji Liushuang: Reflects on her dependence on Sword Intent and is open to Fu Qian's guidance.
• Fu Qian: Demonstrates his expertise in swordsmanship and offers help to both Lisha and Ji Liushuang.

Significant Themes

• The pursuit of skill and its potential consequences (addiction, dependence).
• The importance of mentorship and guidance in personal growth.
• The tension between personal ambition and the influence of others.

Character Interactions

• Lisha and Fu Qian: Their interaction is filled with tension, with Lisha being wary of Fu Qian's influence and Fu Qian being casual and helpful.
• Lisha and Ji Liushuang: Lisha shows concern for Ji Liushuang's well-being and offers her help.
• Fu Qian and Ji Liushuang: Fu Qian guides Ji Liushuang in her pursuit of swordsmanship, offering her valuable insights and advice.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fu Qian conducts an experiment using a circlet on Ji Liushuang, which allows her to hear a cryptic message: "Divine Path Broken, Ashes Form Ladder."
• Fu Qian interprets this message as indicating a blocked path to godhood and a potential solution in the Sea of Ashes.

Character Developments

• Ji Liushuang demonstrates her courage and determination by volunteering for the experiment despite its potential risks.
• Fu Qian shows his care for his students' well-being by emphasizing safety measures and limiting the experiment's duration.

Significant Themes

• The struggle to become a god and the obstacles faced on that path.
• The use of tools and intermediaries to convey important information.
• The willingness to take risks in pursuit of knowledge or a greater goal.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian and Ji Liushuang work together to conduct the experiment, showing a mentor-mentee relationship built on trust and mutual respect.
• Fu Qian's concern for Ji Liushuang's well-being is evident in his careful instructions and monitoring during the experiment.
• Ji Liushuang's eagerness to participate in the experiment and her subsequent report of her findings show her dedication to her studies and her trust in Fu Qian.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Liu Shuang and Fu Qian complete a project successfully, leading to a celebration banquet.
• Liu Shuang is appointed to lead the Gospel Group, a significant role in the Ji Clan.

Character Developments

• Liu Shuang gains recognition for her abilities and is entrusted with a crucial position in the Ji Clan.
• Fu Qian demonstrates his understanding of the Ji Clan's dynamics and the importance of strategic alliances.

Significant Themes

• Recognition and acceptance of one's role and responsibilities in adulthood.
• The importance of strategic alliances and understanding one's position in complex political landscapes.

Character Interactions

• Liu Shuang and Fu Qian discuss her new role and the dynamics within the Ji Clan.
• Fu Qian reveals his knowledge of the Demigod Angui's past actions and his likely motivations.
• Liu Shuang and Fu Qian share a moment of understanding and camaraderie as they walk to the celebration banquet.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fu Qian and Ji Liushuang meet at Lanaia's favorite shop.
• They wait for Lanaia, who is late, and order food and drinks.
• Fu Qian reveals he's leaving for an outbound research project in ten minutes.
• Ji Liushuang wishes Fu Qian good luck on his trip.

Character Developments

• Fu Qian: Shows concern for Ji Liushuang's well-being and safety, hints at his mysterious past.
• Ji Liushuang: Demonstrates maturity and understanding, shows respect for Fu Qian's position and experience.

Significant Themes

• Mentorship and guidance: Fu Qian provides advice to Ji Liushuang about her swordsmanship practice and caution.
• Trust and honesty: Fu Qian is honest about his lack of interest in social niceties, and Ji Liushuang accepts this without offense.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian and Ji Liushuang: They have a friendly and respectful conversation, with Fu Qian acting as a mentor figure to Ji Liushuang.
• Fu Qian and Lanaia (off-page): Lanaia's absence is noted, and Fu Qian mentions she likes this shop more than her residence, hinting at their close relationship.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fu Qian receives a letter from Chief Yuan inviting him to inspect the Night Watcher base on Thursday.
• Fu Qian travels to the Sea of Ashes, facing harsh weather conditions and needing to find a boat to take him closer to his destination.
• He meets a group of Transcendents who are going out to sea in the bad weather and decides to follow them.

Character Developments

• Fu Qian demonstrates his strategic thinking and adaptability in planning his journey to the Sea of Ashes.
• He shows his ability to read people and manipulate them subtly to get information, as seen with the middle-aged man at the port.

Significant Themes

• The theme of adaptability and resourcefulness is highlighted as Fu Qian navigates the challenges of his journey.
• The theme of the unknown and danger is present as Fu Qian ventures into the Sea of Ashes.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian interacts with the middle-aged man at the port, using his powers subtly to gain information.
• He follows a group of Transcendents onto a boat, suppressing his aura to avoid detection.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fu Qian, a Demigod, stows away on a boat navigating through a stormy sea.
• The boat, with a crew of taciturn poachers led by Lan En, is heading straight for the outskirts of the Sea of Ashes.
• An octopus-like creature sneaks onto the boat, demonstrating extraordinary stealth for an ordinary sea creature.
• The boat stops, and Lan En uses a harmonica-like instrument to play a melody, which is responded to by a mermaid-like creature.
• The crew enters the water, and Fu Qian spots a mermaid with a human-like upper body and a fish-like tail.

Character Developments

• Fu Qian shows interest and curiosity in the unusual events unfolding.
• Lan En is revealed to be the leader of the poachers, using a unique fish-luring technique with his harmonica.

Significant Themes

• The extraordinary in the ordinary (the octopus-like creature's stealth and the mermaid's response to Lan En's melody).
• The power of music and its ability to connect or influence other beings (Lan En's harmonica and the mermaid's response).

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian observes the crew and their actions but does not interact with them.
• Lan En interacts with the mermaid through his harmonica, luring it closer.
• The crew members follow Lan En's lead, entering the water to presumably capture the mermaid.

Key Plot Points and Events

• A team of hunters, led by Luen, sets out to capture a Mermaid.
• They successfully capture a young Mermaid, but Luen intentionally wounds it, causing it to bleed out.
• Upon bringing the Mermaid onto the ship, a curse is activated, attracting dangerous sea creatures.
• The team decides to press forward towards the Sea of Ashes instead of turning back.
• A giant sea creature attacks the ship, killing one of the hunters and taking the Mermaid.

Character Developments

• Luen: Shows proficiency in hunting and controlling the sea, prioritizes efficiency over mercy.
• Lan En: Initially calm and professional, becomes panicked and accusatory when the curse is activated.
• The Team: Initially excited about the catch, become worried and divided when faced with the curse's consequences.

Significant Themes

• The dangers of greed and recklessness in hunting.
• The consequences of underestimating one's prey.
• The importance of teamwork and communication in crisis situations.

Character Interactions

• Luen and the team: Luen leads the hunt, the team follows his orders.
• Lan En and the team: Lan En becomes accusatory towards the team when the curse is activated.
• The team and the unknown woman: The team looks to her for guidance when faced with the curse.
• The team and the sea creature: The team is united in their fear and desperation when the sea creature attacks.

The small.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The group approaches the Sea of Ashes, a chain of islands with an unusual gray-white color, devoid of life.
• A sea creature pursues their ship, forcing them to land on one of the islands to escape.
• The ship suffers significant damage upon landing, raising concerns about its usability.
• The group discusses the possibility of Deranlai, a new member, betraying them and leading them into a trap.

Character Developments

• Lan En, the leader, is revealed to have had someone watching Deranlai due to his new status, indicating his caution and strategic thinking.
• Lady Ash, a newcomer, volunteers to scout the surrounding area despite the danger, showing initiative and courage.

Significant Themes

• Trust and suspicion among the group, particularly regarding new members.
• The dangers and uncertainties of the Sea of Ashes, and the group's need to adapt and survive in this unfamiliar environment.

Character Interactions

• Lan En and Lady Ash have a tense interaction, with Lan En implying that he had someone watching Deranlai, and Lady Ash volunteering to scout the area.
• The group dynamics show a mix of concern, suspicion, and discontent, reflecting their precarious situation and the strain it puts on their relationships.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fu Qian's destination in the Sea of Ashes is guided by a star map provided by the Starry Sky Prism and coordinates found by the Night Watcher staff.
• Fu Qian spreads news of his arrival to provoke a response from the Sea of Ashes.
• A Mermaid, injured and fleeing, transforms its tail into two, and swims into the Sea of Ashes.
• A mysterious figure pursues the Mermaid, using a seed to capture it with wooden tentacles.

Character Developments

• Fu Qian remains calm and strategic, aiming to stir up disturbances to find opportunities.
• The Mermaid, initially scared and clumsy, shows sudden courage and agility after its tail transformation.
• The mysterious figure is introduced, capable of walking on water and using a unique method to capture the Mermaid.

Significant Themes

• The mysterious and unpredictable nature of the Sea of Ashes.
• The value and importance of blood in this world.
• The concept of cause and effect, and predetermined connections.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian observes the Mermaid's actions but doesn't interfere.
• The Mermaid flees from the mysterious figure, showing fear and vigilance.
• The mysterious figure pursues the Mermaid, using a seed to capture it, showing determination and skill.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fu Qian arrives at the scene where a Mermaid is trapped in a giant tree, created by the Tree Planter Person, Delanlai.
• Fu Qian shoots the Mermaid to stop its cries, attracting Delanlai's attention.
• Delanlai admits to being on Lan En's ship but denies knowing Fu Qian.
• Fu Qian reveals he's not interested in the Mermaid but is exploring the Sea of Ashes.
• Delanlai warns Fu Qian about the dangers of the Sea of Ashes and the consequences of taking its creatures out.
• Fu Qian expresses his intention not to take any creatures out but to absorb their power within the Sea of Ashes.

Character Developments

• Fu Qian: Shows his calm and collected demeanor, even in dangerous situations. He's well-prepared, carrying a gun (Mercy), and exhibits a keen interest in the Sea of Ashes' secrets.
• Delanlai: Initially shocked and vigilant, he becomes more cooperative after realizing Fu Qian might be trapped in the Sea of Ashes. He reveals his environmentalist stance, saving Lan En and his crew for their ability to gather people, not their cruelty.

Significant Themes

• The dangers and mysteries of the Sea of Ashes.
• The consequences of taking creatures from the Sea of Ashes.
• Environmentalism vs. exploitation.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian and Delanlai: Initially hostile, they engage in a conversation that reveals their respective motivations and knowledge about the Sea of Ashes. Delanlai becomes more cooperative after realizing Fu Qian might be trapped in the Sea of Ashes.
• Fu Qian and the Mermaid: Fu Qian shoots the Mermaid to stop its cries, showing no initial concern for its well-being.
• Delanlai and the Mermaid: Delanlai is anxious about the Mermaid's cries, fearing they will attract others. He shows concern for the Mermaid's safety.

So the Met

Key Plot Points and Events

• A giant creature, resembling the Sea God, attacks Deranlai's ship, driving everyone into the Sea of Ashes.
• Fu Qian reveals he controls the Sea God, shocking Deranlai.
• Fu Qian retrieves a Mermaid from the sea, leaving Deranlai bewildered.
• Fu Qian plans to observe Deranlai and the Mermaid as independent samples.
• Lady Ash is found on a cliff, playing a Harmonica. She summons a Fishman creature from the sea.

Character Developments

• Deranlai: Realizes Fu Qian's power over the Sea God, causing him fear and confusion.
• Fu Qian: Shows his ability to control the Sea God, proving his power and manipulating the situation.
• Lady Ash: Reveals her ability to summon creatures using a Harmonica, showing she has secrets and powers beyond her apparent Rank.

Significant Themes

• Power and Control: Fu Qian's control over the Sea God demonstrates his power and manipulation.
• Secrets and Deception: Both Fu Qian and Lady Ash have secrets, showing that not everything is as it seems.
• Fear and Uncertainty: Deranlai's fear and confusion highlight the uncertainty and danger of their situation.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian and Deranlai: Fu Qian manipulates Deranlai, causing him fear and confusion.
• Lady Ash and the Fishman: Lady Ash summons a Fishman creature, showing a connection between them.
• Fu Qian and Lady Ash: Fu Qian observes Lady Ash from a distance, showing interest in her actions.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fu Qian recognizes Rachel, Li Min's friend, in a deformed state, emerging from the sea.
• Li Min, severely injured and deformed, is unable to move or speak clearly.
• Rachel brings Li Min blood dew to help stabilize her condition, but Li Min refuses to accept it at first.
• Li Min reveals that her body is collapsing and she might not be able to hear Rachel's signals soon.
• Rachel reveals she's been involved in illegal activities to help Li Min, and shows signs of regret.

Character Developments

• Fu Qian: Recognizes Rachel and understands the situation between her and Li Min.
• Li Min: Is severely injured and on the brink of death, suffering immense physical pain. Her mental state remains strong.
• Rachel: Has been helping Li Min, engaging in illegal activities to collect materials for her. She's determined to help Li Min but shows signs of regret or guilt.

Significant Themes

• Revenge and its consequences: Li Min's quest for revenge has left her severely injured and near death.
• Friendship and loyalty: Rachel's dedication to helping Li Min, despite the risks and consequences.
• Despair and hope: Li Min's despair at her situation contrasts with Rachel's hope for her recovery.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian and Rachel: Fu Qian observes Rachel and Li Min's interaction, piecing together their history.
• Li Min and Rachel: Their conversation reveals their deep friendship and Li Min's concern for Rachel's safety. Rachel's determination to help Li Min is evident.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Rachel, contaminated by the Curse Abyss, downplays the severity of their situation to Li Min.
• Li Min consumes three bottles of Blood Dew, temporarily reviving her strength and vitality.
• Rachel reveals they were manipulated by a Sea God into entering the Sea of Ashes.
• Li Min theorizes that the Sea God was not trying to kill them but drive them into the Sea of Ashes.
• Li Min decides to investigate the Sea God, but they are attacked by a tentacle, forcing them to retreat.

Character Developments

• Rachel: Admits her dire situation, shows concern for Li Min's well-being, and accepts Li Min's help.
• Li Min: Displayed resilience and quick thinking, even in her weakened state. She's determined to help Rachel and uncover the truth about the Sea God.

Significant Themes

• Friendship: Li Min's actions highlight her loyalty and willingness to help Rachel, even at great personal risk.
• Manipulation: The Sea God's actions reveal its manipulative nature, driving the characters into a dangerous situation.

Character Interactions

• Rachel and Li Min: Their conversation reveals their deep understanding of each other, with Li Min easily seeing through Rachel's attempts to downplay the danger. They work together to face their predicament.
• Li Min and the Sea God: Li Min's brief encounter with the Sea God's tentacle demonstrates the creature's power and aggression, further emphasizing the threat they face.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Min and Rachel encounter a mysterious Divine creature that attacks them, but doesn't kill them.
• The creature seems to be driving them towards a specific location, possibly to use them as bait.
• Li Min brings Rachel to a hidden cave on the floating island to hide and wait for the creature's true target.

Character Developments

• Li Min demonstrates strong psychological resilience and quick thinking, even in crisis.
• Rachel shows courage and adaptability, accepting Li Min's plan to use themselves as bait to survive.

Significant Themes

• Survival and adaptability in a hostile environment.
• The use of strategy and intellect to outmaneuver a powerful enemy.
• The concept of being used as a pawn or bait in a larger scheme.

Character Interactions

• Li Min and Rachel work together to survive, with Li Min taking the lead in decision-making due to her experience and knowledge.
• Li Min comforts and encourages Rachel, helping her maintain hope and resilience.
• Li Min and Rachel's relationship evolves, with Rachel accepting Li Min's changed appearance and abilities.