Ch. 301It Was Zhao Rui
Key plot points and events
- A colossal, dragon-shaped Dharma Aspect appears above Blue Star, its presence felt by everyone and its vast body coiling around the planet.
- Blue Star’s leading martial artists—including King Zhou and Mo Wuji with his son—prepare to confront the mysterious arrival. Qingcheng Sect’s defenders ready themselves to fight or flee, while nations send their air forces into the sky.
- The three leading experts realize the dragon has no life force and suspect it is a technique from the Central Plains: a Manifestation of Dharma Appearance.
- The figure speaks, and people recognize the voice as Zhao Rui’s. His return after traveling across the cosmos turns fear and uncertainty into excitement.
Character developments and interactions
- King Zhou, Mo Wuji, and Long Teng stand together, alert to the threat and aware that Blue Star may depend on them.
- Sect Leader Weichen shows resolve and care for his people, ordering the vulnerable to escape if necessary while rallying the rest to defend Qingcheng.
- Zhao Rui returns with power so immense that even the strongest martial artists are shaken. Though absent, he is remembered with affection, frustration, and reverence by those who know him.
- The public, martial leaders, Qingcheng’s defenders, religious figures, and broadcasters all react to Zhao Rui’s return, quickly shifting from alarm to celebration.
Significant themes
- Fear transformed into hope: Zhao Rui’s overwhelming arrival initially appears to be an invasion, but recognition of him calms Blue Star.
- Loyalty and shared defense: Qingcheng’s followers and Blue Star’s leaders prepare to protect their homes together.
- Power and change: Zhao Rui’s return promises to upset Blue Star’s existing balance of power.
- Reputation and belonging: Despite his long absence, Zhao Rui remains deeply connected to the people and world he left behind.