Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fu Qian and Dorian discuss the limitations of converting locals into Dolls and the existence of an elusive entity on Cold Mountain.
• Dorian shares his observations and rules about the entity, which only appears at night, never enters rooms, and leaves no trace after daybreak.
• Fu Qian learns that the entity has appeared in Dorian's dream more than once, and everyone who shared his dream imagined the same image of it.

Character Developments

• Dorian reveals his special form of existence, which allows him to manage but not participate in the dream.
• Fu Qian becomes more suspicious that the entity really exists due to the consistent results of the dream subjects' imaginations.

Significant Themes

• The theme of the unsolvable task continues, with Fu Qian questioning the progress made in breaking the boundaries of Akons.
• The theme of the elusive entity's existence and its rules is introduced.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian and Dorian have a detailed and candid conversation about the entity and its appearances in the dream.
• Dorian shows surprise and fear when Fu Qian mentions the consistency of the dream subjects' imaginations.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The protagonist enters a Healing Dreamscape created by Dorian to treat his psychological illness.
• He discovers that Akons is a temporary backup, and his interactions within it don't affect the real town.
• He can't take items from the backup to the real world, and the natives don't remember him or their interactions.

Character Developments

• The protagonist realizes that the glass-like barrier can't be penetrated directly but might be penetrable in reverse.
• He considers using the White-faced Man's uniqueness to influence the real Akons from within the backup.

Significant Themes

• The theme of illusion versus reality is explored, with the protagonist questioning what's real and what's not.
• The idea of finding unique solutions to problems is emphasized, rather than relying on brute force.

Character Interactions

• The protagonist interacts with various natives in Akons, each with unique skills, but they don't remember these interactions.
• He meets Dorian, the master of the Healing Dreamscape, who suggests using Xilaliya's Doll to enhance the therapeutic effect.

Key Plot Points & Events

• Fu Qian visits Dorian, the town's Divine Doctor, seeking help for Xilaliya's Dolls.
• Dorian reveals he has other 'cured' Outsiders, now reduced to Dolls, in his clinic.
• Fu Qian asks Dorian to upgrade Xilaliya's Dolls using Dorian's own Dolls as materials.
• Fu Qian decapitates Dorian and takes his head, along with the Dolls, leaving the clinic.
• Fu Qian visits Xilaliya at the Holy See, revealing Dorian's head and the modified Dolls.
• Xilaliya, shocked, agrees to Fu Qian's plan to use Dorian's Dolls to upgrade hers.

Character Developments

• Dorian: Revealed to have 'cured' other Outsiders, turning them into Dolls. Killed by Fu Qian.
• Xilaliya: Initially shocked and confused, she agrees to Fu Qian's plan, switching to her dark form.

Significant Themes

• The consequences of 'curing' Outsiders and reducing them to Dolls.
• The power dynamics between Fu Qian, Dorian, and Xilaliya.
• The theme of upgrading or improving oneself (or one's creations) at any cost.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian and Dorian: Fu Qian manipulates Dorian into revealing his secret and then kills him.
• Fu Qian and Xilaliya: Fu Qian presents Dorian's head and modified Dolls to Xilaliya, convincing her to agree to his plan.
• Dorian and his Dolls: Dorian's relationship with his creations is revealed to be exploitative and harmful.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lady Xilaliya exhibits a significant change, becoming calm and wise, no longer fearing death.
• Fu Qian visits Xilaliya and realizes her change might be related to the "Bitter Fruit" he's seeking.
• Xilaliya's posture reminds Fu Qian of her previous explanation of the healing effects in the underground stone chamber.
• Fu Qian hypothesizes that the Bitter Fruit is growing spiritually among the natives, with Xilaliya's change being a manifestation of this.
• Xilaliya asks why Fu Qian hasn't made a move yet, and they discuss her past service to Akons and her faith.
• Fu Qian considers the possibility that a pure Authority of concept is transforming the land, eliminating delusions and granting freedom to the natives.
• He decides to re-evaluate the Containment conditions and the role of the historical dust.
• Fu Qian decapitates Xilaliya, careful not to injure her eyes and lungs, and takes her to the clinic.

Character Developments

• Lady Xilaliya: She undergoes a significant change, becoming calm, wise, and unafraid of death. She accepts her past and her faith, ready for her fate.
• Fu Qian: He reassesses the mission and the Bitter Fruit's nature, becoming more determined to find it. He also shows respect for Xilaliya's change and her past service.

Significant Themes

• Enlightenment and spiritual growth: The Bitter Fruit's growth is tied to the natives' spiritual enlightenment.
• Faith and belief: Xilaliya's faith in the God of Insight and Wisdom remains unchanged despite her transformation.
• The consequences of actions: Fu Qian considers the potential consequences of turning Akons into a ghost town.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian and Xilaliya: They have a philosophical discussion about Xilaliya's past service, her faith, and her acceptance of death. Fu Qian shows respect for her change, while Xilaliya accepts her fate calmly.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fu Qian arrives at Dorian's clinic, seeking treatment and pays the fees.
• Dorian returns after dark, suggesting they move to the round tower for the treatment.
• Fu Qian agrees, and they return to the tower filled with Dolls. Dorian arranges them in a circle around Fu Qian.
• Fu Qian asks about Xilaliya's treatment methods and lines, and Dorian reveals that they have changed over time.
• Fu Qian thanks Dorian and indicates that the treatment can begin.

Character Developments

• Fu Qian: Shows curiosity about Xilaliya's treatment methods and remains calm and cooperative throughout.
• Dorian: Struggles with his conscience and the reality of the situation, eventually losing some of his fighting spirit.

Significant Themes

• The Bitter Fruit's growth and its reflection in Xilaliya's treatment lines.
• The philosophical meaning behind the Bitter Fruit's "Dao."

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian and Dorian: Fu Qian questions Dorian about Xilaliya's treatment methods, and Dorian reluctantly reveals information. Dorian arranges the Dolls for Fu Qian's treatment.
• Fu Qian and Xilaliya: Fu Qian enters the dreamscape with Xilaliya, but the interaction is not detailed in this chapter.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fu Qian finds himself in a stone chamber beneath the Church, surrounded by four identical Xilaliyas.
• He encounters Lady Sala, who is more aggressive and quickly self-destructs.
• Upon entering the Church, Fu Qian finds it crowded with terrified Outsiders and natives.
• The felt-hat brother, a reflection of a native, recognizes some of the Outsiders but is confused by their presence.

Character Developments

• Fu Qian maintains his calm and analytical demeanor, even in the face of multiple Xilaliyas and the chaotic Church.
• Lady Sala's condition has worsened, and she is more aggressive and self-destructive.
• The felt-hat brother reveals that he has memories of the Outsiders, indicating he's a special case.

Significant Themes

• Identity and Reality: The felt-hat brother's memories of the Outsiders suggest that Fu Qian's situation is unique, raising questions about his identity and reality.
• Fear and Control: The Outsiders' fear and the natives' terror highlight the theme of control, with Fu Qian trying to maintain control over the situation.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian interacts with the quadruple Xilaliyas, Lady Sala, and the felt-hat brother, using his quick thinking and calm demeanor to navigate each encounter.
• The Outsiders and natives in the Church interact with each other, showing fear and discomfort, while Fu Qian tries to gather information from the felt-hat brother.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fu Qian kills a felt-hatted brother, triggering a wave of screams and a mass exodus from the Church.
• An old woman uses a potion to dispel the disintegrating worms, revealing she received it from Akons long ago.
• Fu Qian learns the potion is a Gift from Akons, questioning Akons' true origin and the existence of other realms.
• A White-faced Man attacks Fu Qian with a powerful strike, failing to hit but entering a standoff.

Character Developments

• Fu Qian shows no fear or caution, even when facing powerful enemies, displaying confidence in his abilities.
• The old woman reveals her secret about receiving the potion from Akons, showing fear but also cooperation with Fu Qian.
• The White-faced Man demonstrates growth and increased power, entering a standoff with Fu Qian.

Significant Themes

• The power of faith and belief, as seen in the old woman's potion and the White-faced Man's appearance.
• The question of Akons' true origin and the existence of other realms, hinting at a larger multiverse.
• The consequences of losing faith and connection with one's beliefs, as seen in the loss of color on Fu Qian's hand.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian interacts with the old woman, learning about the potion's origin and gaining her trust.
• Fu Qian faces off against the White-faced Man, showing no fear despite the powerful attack.
• The old woman and the crowd at the Church react with fear and awe to the horrific scene and Fu Qian's actions.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fu Qian faces a unique opponent, the White-faced Man, with an Authority called 'Loss of Color' that's dangerous and intriguing.
• The White-faced Man, seemingly a First Order, attacks Fu Qian relentlessly, causing severe injuries that don't heal.
• Fu Qian uses various abilities to counterattack, including Blood Conquest and a powerful punch, but the White-faced Man remains largely unaffected.
• Fu Qian eventually transforms into the King of Prison Break, crushes the White-faced Man's weapon, and stomps him into the ground.

Character Developments

• Fu Qian demonstrates his confidence, adaptability, and strategic thinking in facing the White-faced Man's unique threat.
• The White-faced Man shows unyielding aggression and resilience, even when severely injured.

Significant Themes

• The power of mental state and its influence on abilities (Loss of Color).
• The struggle against seemingly insurmountable odds.
• The importance of understanding one's opponent.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian tries to communicate with the White-faced Man but fails, leading to continuous combat.
• Fu Qian expresses concern for the White-faced Man's mental state, showing a rare moment of empathy for his opponent.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fu Qian, after assessing the situation, decides not to use his backup plan immediately.
• He transforms into the King of Prison Break and clashes with the White-faced Man, causing aftershocks that collapse all Akons in reality and illusion.
• Fu Qian follows the White-faced Man into the underground clinic, where he finds four Xilaliyas waiting.
• He decides to turn the White-faced Man into a Doll to use it for his purposes.
• Fu Qian and the Xilaliyas work together to treat the White-faced Man, with Fu Qian staying to monitor the process.

Character Developments

• Fu Qian shows strategic thinking and adaptability, changing his plans based on new information.
• The White-faced Man is revealed to be a special existence, possibly a former administrator, and is successfully turned into a Doll.
• The Xilaliyas demonstrate their dedication and selflessness, willing to sacrifice themselves to treat the White-faced Man.

Significant Themes

• Adaptability and Strategic Thinking: Fu Qian's ability to change his plans based on new information and circumstances.
• Sacrifice and Dedication: The Xilaliyas' willingness to sacrifice themselves for the greater good.
• The Nature of Existence: The White-faced Man's special qualities and the implications of turning it into a Doll.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian and the White-faced Man clash, leading to Fu Qian's realization of the White-faced Man's special nature.
• Fu Qian interacts with the Xilaliyas, expressing gratitude and respect for their sacrifice.
• Fu Qian and the White-faced Man share a moment of understanding and connection during the treatment process.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fu Qian completes the mission in Akons, preventing the Bitter Fruit from growing by turning the White-faced Man into a permanent Doll.
• The mission summary reveals that Akons is a remnant of ancient beliefs within the human mind, and an unknown, pure power has been trying to purify it.
• The mission is successful without any kills, and Fu Qian gains 20 Sanity Value and a special reward, the Entwined Umbilical Cord.

Character Developments

• Fu Qian demonstrates his strategic thinking and understanding of the mission's underlying logic, successfully completing it without direct confrontation.
• The White-faced Man, now a permanent Doll, remains in Akons, preventing the Bitter Fruit from growing.

Significant Themes

• The power of the mind and belief, as Akons is a remnant of ancient beliefs within the human psyche.
• The struggle between purity and impurity, as an unknown power seeks to purify Akons.
• The consequences of failure, as the mission's failure could have led to the spread of the Bitter Fruit's influence.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian interacts with Dorian, warning him to collect the extra Doll and hinting at the mission's completion.
• Fu Qian reflects on the mission's completion and the Warehouse's role, considering the possibility of becoming a tool for blocking bullets in the Warehouse.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fu Qian receives a mission summary about Akons, a realm in the depths of the human mind, and its connection to a barrier and the realm where gods fall.
• The mission summary hints at the purification of Akons and its potential impact on the barrier.
• Fu Qian receives a special reward, the Entwined Umbilical Cord, which increases Sanity Value but has unpredictable effects due to its mixed divine and filthy nature.

Character Developments

• Fu Qian continues to ponder the mission and its implications, displaying his analytical and strategic thinking.
• Fu Qian shows curiosity and caution in handling the Entwined Umbilical Cord, indicating his careful and calculated approach to powerful items.

Significant Themes

• The theme of faith and its reflection in the collective subconscious is explored through the barrier and Akons.
• The theme of decay and rebirth is introduced through the Entwined Umbilical Cord and its connection to the gods' power in Akons.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian interacts with the Warehouse through the mission summary and the special reward, showcasing his understanding and acceptance of its rules and quirks.
• Fu Qian's internal monologue reveals his thoughts and speculations about the mission and the items he receives, providing insight into his character and thought processes.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fu Qian encounters a powerful enemy, the 'Morning Glow', which can banish Second Order versions of oneself and reproduce ancient superior powers.
• He completes his daily task and leaves the warehouse. His work progress for the week stands at 1/4.
• Fu Qian goes shopping for clothes and has breakfast at a bakery, where he meets a curious receptionist and has a brief, awkward conversation.
• He receives a greeting from Xixi Gatsby, his employer, who is in a different time zone.

Character Developments

• Fu Qian shows his efficiency and composure in his daily tasks and interactions, maintaining a calm demeanor even in unusual situations.
• Xixi Gatsby shows signs of increased relaxation and engagement, greeting Fu Qian in the morning and sharing personal memories with him.

Significant Themes

• The contrast between Fu Qian's current life and his experiences in the Akons.
• The power dynamics and potential dangers of the 'Morning Glow' enemy.
• The theme of giving and receiving gifts, as mentioned by Xixi Gatsby.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian has a brief, polite conversation with a curious receptionist at the bakery, despite her misguided attempts at small talk.
• He exchanges greetings with Xixi Gatsby, showing a level of familiarity and comfort in their interaction.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xixi takes Fu Qian to her mother's old residence.
• She shows him a portrait of her grandfather, who has a pink beard due to a unique reflection from the window.
• Xixi asks Fu Qian to use his time-reversal ability to recreate the scene where her grandfather's beard appears pink at sunrise.

Character Developments

• Xixi: Shows a more personal side, revealing her childhood fear of her strict grandfather. She also displays her playful nature and appreciation for unique perspectives.
• Fu Qian: Demonstrates his adaptability and willingness to accommodate Xixi's requests. He also shows his pragmatism in assessing familial resemblances.

Significant Themes

• Childhood Memories and Nostalgia: Xixi's visit to her childhood home and her reminiscence about the pink-bearded portrait reflect her longing for the past.
• Perception and Reality: The pink beard is a result of a unique perspective, highlighting how different perceptions can alter reality.

Character Interactions

• Xixi and Fu Qian: Their interaction is cordial and professional, with Fu Qian showing deference to Xixi's requests while maintaining his practicality. Xixi, in turn, is grateful and respectful of Fu Qian's abilities.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fu Qian and Xixi discuss the meaning of "self" and parents, with Xixi revealing her complex emotions about her family affection and requesting Fu Qian to rewind time to her childhood.
• Fu Qian asks for nine more blankets as his reward, and Xixi agrees to deliver them in installments.
• Yuan Shan visits the bookstore early in the morning, surprised to find Fu Qian already open for business and dressed up. She shares some news with him.

Character Developments

• Xixi: Struggles with the truth about her family affection, shows her vulnerability and complexity.
• Fu Qian: Demonstrates his dedication to his work and image, maintains his casual and straightforward demeanor.

Significant Themes

• The absence of parents and its impact on self-identity and emotions.
• The complexity of family affection and truth.
• The dedication and hardships of running a small business.

Character Interactions

• Xixi and Fu Qian: Their conversation reveals Xixi's inner turmoil, and Fu Qian shows understanding and acceptance.
• Fu Qian and Yuan Shan: They engage in a light-hearted banter, with Yuan Shan expressing her surprise at Fu Qian's dedication to his business.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Multiple Siren leaders were assassinated, suspected to be Yasui's doing in retaliation for An Jing Shizhi's death.
• Night Watchers won't intervene, as their scope is limited to Supernatural and ordinary people conflicts.
• Fu Qian learns about Wen Li's invitation to the Spirit Ash Institute.

Character Developments

• Fu Qian shows concern for Wen Li's safety and academic growth.
• Yuan Shan demonstrates her relaxed and straightforward nature while sharing information.

Significant Themes

• Intervention vs Non-Intervention: Yuan Shan's explanation of Night Watchers' principles highlights their clear boundaries and non-intervention in organizational conflicts.
• Academic Pursuits vs Safety: Fu Qian and Yuan Shan discuss Wen Li's invitation, weighing the benefits of academic growth against safety concerns.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian and Yuan Shan engage in a casual, informative conversation, with Fu Qian asking questions and Yuan Shan sharing news and insights.
• Yuan Shan seeks Fu Qian's opinion on Wen Li's invitation, showing respect for his perspective.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wen Li receives an invitation letter from the Spirit Ash Institute, suggesting they mean no harm and want to cooperate.
• Fu Qian decides to let Wen Li go to the Academy, seeing it as an opportunity for her.
• Yuan Shan visits to discuss the invitation and ensure Fu Qian is well after his previous ordeal.
• Fu Qian returns to the Warehouse, interacts with the skeleton messengers, and offers an ancient Higher Being's umbilical cord to Red Moon, who shows no interest.

Character Developments

• Wen Li: Shows maturity and consideration by suggesting she go to the Academy.
• Fu Qian: Demonstrates his strategic thinking in managing his identities and preparing for future interactions with the Night Watcher.
• Yuan Shan: Reveals concern for Fu Qian's well-being and shows understanding of his situation.

Significant Themes

• Identity and reputation management (Fu Qian's multiple identities).
• Opportunity and growth (Wen Li's invitation to the Academy).
• Concern and support (Yuan Shan's visit to Fu Qian).

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian and Wen Li: Fu Qian supports Wen Li's decision to go to the Academy, showing care for her growth.
• Fu Qian and Yuan Shan: They discuss Wen Li's invitation and Yuan Shan expresses concern for Fu Qian's well-being.
• Fu Qian and the skeleton messengers: Fu Qian interacts with the messengers, showing a friendly and familiar demeanor.
• Fu Qian and Red Moon: Fu Qian offers the umbilical cord to Red Moon, showing respect and consideration for her interests.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fu Qian returns to the Laboratory to find it improved with new furniture and facilities, enhancing the work environment.
• He visits the Institute of Curses, where Professor A Kai shares his progress on a new Miracle inspired by the Avatar of Decay's dragon, Huo.
• A Kai reveals that the Miracle, tentatively named "Fu Qian's Death," creates a Seed of Death that spreads and causes decay in everything it touches, even Supernatural Items.
• The Miracle has unlimited expansion potential and is slow-spreading but powerful.

Character Developments

• Fu Qian: Shows satisfaction with A Kai's progress and supports his work.
• A Kai: Demonstrates dedication to his research, making significant progress in a short time, and gains personal benefits from the new Miracle.

Significant Themes

• Scientific progress and innovation: Fu Qian's improvements to the Laboratory and A Kai's development of a new Miracle highlight the importance of scientific advancement.
• Mentorship and support: Fu Qian's guidance and encouragement of A Kai emphasize the role of mentors in fostering growth and success.
• Power and responsibility: The creation of a powerful, potentially destructive Miracle raises questions about the consequences and control of such power.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian and A Kai: Their interaction showcases a mentor-mentee relationship, with Fu Qian supporting and guiding A Kai's work, and A Kai expressing gratitude and eagerness to share his progress.
• Fu Qian and the Laboratory staff: Though not present, Fu Qian's improvements to the Laboratory demonstrate his care for his team's well-being and productivity.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Professor A Kai sets up a cultivation site near the Institute of Curses, planting a 'Seed of Death' without fear of repercussions.
• Fu Qian visits the site and observes the slow expansion of the 'Seed of Death', which causes everything within its radius to wither and turn to dust.
• Fu Qian tests the Miracle by inserting his finger into the 'Seed of Death', experiencing the fear it induces.

Character Developments

• Professor A Kai demonstrates bravery and dedication to scientific research, even courting danger to study the 'Seed of Death'.
• Fu Qian shows respect for experimental procedures and academic integrity, following A Kai's guidance in testing the Miracle.

Significant Themes

• Fear and Death: The chapter explores the relationship between fear and death, with the 'Seed of Death' Miracle causing fear that could lead to death.
• Scientific Research: The instructors at the Academy, including A Kai and Fu Qian, are dedicated to understanding and studying supernatural phenomena, even at personal risk.

Character Interactions

• A Kai and Fu Qian interact as colleagues, with A Kai sharing his findings and Fu Qian contributing his insights and testing the Miracle.
• There's a sense of mutual respect and shared curiosity between them, driving their academic pursuits.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Professor A Kai is experiencing Death due to fear, which is puzzling as inanimate objects shouldn't be affected by emotions.
• Professor Fu Qian suggests that fear is a higher-level influence, a 'Curse', not merely an emotion.
• A Kai deduces the Miracle but struggles with its Rank and accuracy.
• Fu Qian reveals that the core of the Miracle is a 'Higher Being', a 'God', and it's a true story being replayed.
• A Kai realizes that a Miracle could be a story of a Deity, but Huo, the source of this Miracle, isn't qualified.
• Fu Qian uses the Return Edict to deal with A Kai's Death.

Character Developments

• Professor A Kai shows his professional ability by deducing the Miracle but struggles with its Rank and understanding.
• Professor Fu Qian demonstrates his wisdom and experience by providing insights about the Miracle's core and helping A Kai understand it better.

Significant Themes

• Rank and Limitations: The characters' ranks limit their understanding and control over higher-level phenomena like the Miracle.
• The Essence of Miracle: The Miracle is a true story, possibly of a Deity, and releasing it is like replaying that story.
• Fear and Curse: Fear is not just an emotion but a higher-level influence, a Curse, that affects both animate and inanimate objects.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian and A Kai engage in a thought-provoking discussion about the Miracle, with Fu Qian providing insights and A Kai sharing his deductions and realizations.
• Fu Qian helps A Kai deal with his Death, showing concern for his well-being.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Professor Fu Qian attempts to dispel a curse on Professor A Kai using a method he's tried before.
• Fu Qian successfully removes the curse, which was related to the Authority of Death.
• Fu Qian reflects on the nature of miracles and their connection to Higher Beings, particularly the Death Master.
• A Kai, impressed by Fu Qian's prowess, promises to share any future gains from their project.

Character Developments

• Fu Qian demonstrates his powerful abilities and deep understanding of curses and miracles.
• A Kai shows his intellectual curiosity and willingness to take risks for the sake of research.

Significant Themes

• The nature of miracles and their connection to Higher Beings.
• The power dynamics between researchers and the subjects of their study.
• The potential dangers and rewards of scientific research.

Character Interactions

• Fu Qian and A Kai work together to remove the curse, showcasing their mutual respect and trust.
• Fu Qian's reflection on the nature of miracles reveals his analytical and speculative mind.
• A Kai's promise to share future gains demonstrates his integrity and collegiality.