Ch. 21Stealthy Cultivation! Catching Up!
Key Plot Points and Events
- Meng Nan's mission is to cultivate and master several powerful techniques and achieve Body Cleansing with True Qi.
- He decides to focus on alchemy as a reliable source of cultivation resources, aiming to refine Qi Circulation Powder, Yellow Spirit Pill, and Golden Marrow Pill.
- Meng Nan calculates that his alchemy could earn him around four thousand gold per year, with potential for much more as he advances.
- He spends most of his time in seclusion, cultivating, studying sorcery, and practicing alchemy, while also interacting with market vendors and cultivators.
- Meng Nan struggles to break through to the True Qi stage, spending seven years in the Greater Heavenly Cycle.
Character Developments
- Meng Nan becomes more determined and focused on his cultivation and alchemy, understanding the hardships and rewards of his pursuits.
- He gains a deeper understanding of the Qingtian Market and its inhabitants, both old acquaintances and new faces.
- Meng Nan's cultivation progress slows down as he reaches the Greater Heavenly Cycle, and he grapples with the concept of 'embracing unity' to advance to the True Qi stage.
Significant Themes
- The struggle and perseverance required to master skills and advance in cultivation.
- The importance of having the right resources, environment, and people to support one's growth.
- The risks and consequences of taking shortcuts in cultivation, such as using 'Essence Blood' to force a breakthrough.
Character Interactions
- Meng Nan interacts with Zhao Xiaoshuang, Qian Yu, Chen De, Wang An, and Chu Zhongliang, learning from them and understanding their roles in the market.
- He observes and learns from the various items and techniques sold in the market, broadening his horizons.
- Meng Nan seeks advice from cultivators in the market to aid his progress, but ultimately decides against using 'Essence Blood' to force a breakthrough.