Chapter Summaries

Summary

Plot Points and Events

• Xu Yuan returns home to find his residence destroyed by Sun Li.
• Sun Li challenges Xu Yuan to a sword match, aiming to impress Princess Yining and secure Sun Shou's future.
• Xu Yuan easily defeats Sun Li, causing him to lose face and suffer significant financial losses.

Character Developments

• Xu Yuan demonstrates his superior skill and control over his Sword Pellet, showing no mercy to Sun Li.
• Sun Li, despite his initial bravado, is revealed to be cunning and adaptable, willing to sacrifice his wealth and dignity to save his life.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics between Pill Cultivators and their influence on society.
• The consequences of underestimating one's opponent and the importance of self-awareness.
• The role of wealth and status in determining one's fate and the willingness to compromise to maintain it.

Character Interactions

• Xu Yuan and Sun Li's sword match highlights the stark contrast between their skills and personalities.
• Princess Yining watches the match, amused by Sun Li's antics and impressed by Xu Yuan's prowess.
• The common folk gather to support Xu Yuan, showing their loyalty and admiration for him.

• Key Plot Points & Events: The protagonist, after a long day outside, returns home around 8 PM. They initially intend to write but end up taking a nap instead.
• Character Developments: The protagonist displays a lack of motivation or energy to write after a tiring day, suggesting they may be dealing with fatigue or procrastination.
• Significant Themes: The chapter touches on themes of procrastination, fatigue, and the struggle to maintain productivity, especially after a long day.
• Character Interactions: There are no character interactions in this chapter, as it's a solo reflection.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Song Weiming and his group slip away from Zhancheng after Xu Yuan's demonstration, taking the Silver they collected.
• The Sun family leaves Zhancheng dejectedly, with Sun Shou deeply discouraged and Sun Li injured, both physically and mentally.
• The Sun family's boat stops at "Yangzi Bay" for the night, where they are killed by the Grandmaster Toad Golden Lord, an evil spirit.
• Lord Ruan, the ruler of Ghost Witch Mountain, annihilates the Grandmaster Toad Golden Lord for betraying him and reveals that the toad planned to use the Six Clans' promise of reincarnation to escape its identity as an evil spirit.
• Princess Ruicheng, Xu Yuan, and their group travel to Luocheng for official business, with Xu Miao Zhi and Zhu Zhanmei following them.
• Murong Zunlong, a prominent cultivator from the Murong Family, seeks an audience with Princess Ruicheng in Luocheng.

Character Developments

• Song Weiming: He becomes more determined to investigate the Xu family's schemes and considers snatching "Fetus-bearing" back from Xu Yuan.
• Sun Shou: He becomes disheartened and disillusioned after his encounter with Xu Yuan, realizing the true power and insidiousness of the Xu family.
• Sun Li: He is severely injured by Xu Yuan's methods and becomes obsessed with maintaining his skill level, leading to a deeper understanding of the suffering he has caused others in the past.
• Xu Yuan: He continues to accompany Princess Ruicheng on her official duties, growing more aware of her interest in him.
• Princess Ruicheng: She uses her official duties as an excuse to spend more time with Xu Yuan, growing more infatuated with him.
• Murong Zunlong: He pursues Princess Ruicheng, hoping to marry her and fulfill his lifelong ambition of marrying a Princess.

Significant Themes

• Power and manipulation: The Xu family's schemes, Lord Ruan's control over Ghost Witch Mountain, and Murong Zunlong's pursuit of Princess Ruicheng all highlight the theme of power and manipulation.
• The consequences of one's actions: Sun Li's injury and realization, Sun Shou's discouragement, and the Grandmaster Toad Golden Lord's annihilation all show the consequences of their respective actions.
• The pursuit of ambition: Murong Zunlong's lifelong ambition to marry a Princess and the Grandmaster Toad Golden Lord's plan for reincarnation both illustrate the theme of pursuing one's ambitions, regardless of the cost.

Character Interactions

• Song Weiming and his group: They work together to investigate the Xu family's schemes and slip away from Zhancheng.
• The Sun family: Sun Shou and Sun Li have a tense interaction, with Sun Li becoming increasingly angry and Sun Shou growing more discouraged.
• Xu Yuan and Princess Ruicheng: They continue to spend time together, with Princess Ruicheng growing more infatuated with Xu Yuan.
• Murong Zunlong and Princess Ruicheng: Murong Zunlong seeks an audience with Princess Ruicheng, hoping to marry her and fulfill his lifelong ambition.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The narrator has had a difficult day on the road.
• They decide not to write for the day, intending to make up for it the next day.

Character Developments

• The narrator expresses exhaustion and frustration from their journey, hinting at personal growth through perseverance.

Significant Themes

• Resilience: The narrator's determination to continue despite a challenging day suggests resilience and perseverance.
• Time Management: The narrator's decision to take a day off and make up for it later highlights the theme of time management and prioritization.

Character Interactions

• The chapter is written in first-person, with no other characters present. The narrator interacts with their own emotions and decisions, showing self-awareness and introspection.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

+ The Son of Heaven and the Canal Dragon King encourage communication between young royals and disciples practicing the Dragon Transformation Method.
+ Princess Ruicheng is puzzled by this and seeks Xu Yuan's help to manage Jiaozhi shipping routes.
+ Murong Zunlong, a scion of the Murong Family (Dragon Transformation Method practitioners), arrives in Jiaozhi to pursue Princess Ruicheng.
+ The Murong Family members in Jiaozhi privately detain the family of Qu Hui Division's Patrol Inspector, Xiang Qinghuai, to lure Xu Yuan out.
+ Xu Yuan confronts and defeats Murong Zunlong in a duel, demonstrating the power of his Dragon Transformation Method and Sword Pellet techniques.

Character Developments

+ Princess Ruicheng shows intelligence and sharpness, using Xu Yuan to manage Jiaozhi shipping routes and seeking his help to deal with Murong Zunlong.
+ Xu Yuan displays his unyielding temperament and powerful techniques, defeating Murong Zunlong and protecting the Qu Hui Division's reputation.
+ Murong Zunlong, initially arrogant, is humiliated and defeated by Xu Yuan, leading to a change in his attitude.

Significant Themes

+ The privileges and arrogance of the Dragon Transformation Method families, leading to conflicts with local officials.
+ The power dynamics between the imperial family, the Canal Dragon King, and the Dragon Transformation Method families.
+ The struggle for influence and resources between different factions in Huangming.

Character Interactions

+ Princess Ruicheng and Xu Yuan work together to manage Jiaozhi shipping routes and deal with Murong Zunlong.
+ Xu Yuan and Murong Zunlong engage in a duel, showcasing their techniques and leading to a change in Murong Zunlong's attitude.
+ The Murong Family members in Jiaozhi privately detain Xiang Qinghuai's family, leading to a confrontation with Xu Yuan and the Qu Hui Division.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Murong Zunlong and Xu Yuan's sparring match ends with Murong Zunlong's defeat.
• Murong Zunlong uses several powerful Craft Items, including a bell, a banner, a mirror, and a cage, but Xu Yuan counters them all.
• Xu Yuan's Horn Lamp, Mourning Water, Ten Thousand Souls Scarf, and Sword Pellet prove superior to Murong Zunlong's Craft Items.
• Murong Zunlong's drop of Profound Yellow Dragon Blood is revealed to fear the Mourning Water.
• Murong Zunlong leaves the training ground in defeat, suffering heavy losses.

Character Developments

• Murong Zunlong's overconfidence is humbled, and he suffers a significant loss, damaging several of his Craft Items.
• Xu Yuan demonstrates his prowess and strategic thinking, countering Murong Zunlong's attacks with ease.
• The Princess's confidence in Xu Yuan grows, while Mr. Wen Qi hints at Xu Yuan's changed behavior when it comes to the Princess.

Significant Themes

• The power of Craft Items and their limitations.
• The fear of the Profound Yellow Dragon Blood towards the Mourning Water.
• The strategic thinking and adaptability of Xu Yuan.

Character Interactions

• Murong You's pride and frustration grow as Murong Zunlong's losses mount.
• Ma Tianshou and Xiang Qinghuai mock the Murong family after Murong Zunlong's defeat.
• The Princess and Mr. Wen Qi discuss Xu Yuan's actions, with Mr. Wen Qi hinting at Xu Yuan's feelings for the Princess.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xu Yuan realizes the value of the "Bridge to the Underworld" and the "Mirror of Knowledge and Perception" for his own use.
• Jia Yuan and Murong Zunlong are released, but Xu Yuan suspects a mole in his midst—Liu Hu.
• Murong Zunlong plans to visit Princess Ruicheng, who decides to return to Zhancheng instead.
• Xu Yuan moves back to the Southern Bureau in Jiaozhi, preparing to deal with Murong Zunlong and Song Weiming.
• Jia Yuan and Murong You suspect Song Weiming's true intentions and decide to be cautious.

Character Developments

• Xu Yuan becomes more determined to deal with Murong Zunlong and Song Weiming.
• Jia Yuan and Murong You become suspicious of Song Weiming's intentions.
• Murong Zunlong remains sullen and uncommunicative after his defeat.
• Princess Ruicheng grows annoyed with Murong Zunlong's persistence.

Significant Themes

• The power struggle between noble families and the Imperial Family.
• The consequences of defying the Dragon King's will, as per the "Dragon Law."
• The manipulation of others for personal gain.

Character Interactions

• Xu Yuan and Mr. Cao discuss Princess Ruicheng's departure.
• Jia Yuan and Murong You share their suspicions about Song Weiming.
• Xu Yuan plants seeds of doubt in Jia Yuan and Murong You's minds about Song Weiming's intentions.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xu Yuan discovers that the Little Squirrel is his informant and learns about the Pingtian Society's resurgence.
• He infiltrates a Pingtian Society branch and retrieves an Ear Trumpet.
• Xu Yuan learns about Murong Zunlong and Song Weiming's plan to assassinate him during his return trip to Zhancheng using a River Watchtower's Sky Catching Net.
• Gu Tongzhen, the Centurion of the Eagle's Beak River Watchtower, is bribed by Song Weiming to use the net against Xu Yuan.
• Gu Tongzhen goes to Luocheng for the night, delaying his return to the River Watchtower.
• Song Weiming follows Gu Tongzhen to Luocheng and waits for him at Xueyue Tower.
• Xu Yuan also arrives at Xueyue Tower and plans to act against Gu Tongzhen but is delayed by Song Weiming's presence.

Character Developments

• Xu Yuan: He demonstrates his cunning and patience by infiltrating the Pingtian Society branch and waiting for an opportunity to act against Gu Tongzhen.
• Gu Tongzhen: He shows greed and lust, prioritizing his personal pleasures over his duties, which leads to him being targeted by Xu Yuan.
• Song Weiming: He displays determination and persistence in ensuring Gu Tongzhen's cooperation, even enduring a long wait outside Gu Tongzhen's room.

Significant Themes

• Greed and lust can lead to one's downfall.
• Patience and cunning can lead to success.
• Corruption and bribery can be exploited for personal gain.

Character Interactions

• Xu Yuan and the Little Squirrel: Xu Yuan discovers the Little Squirrel is his informant and learns valuable information from it.
• Xu Yuan and Song Weiming: Xu Yuan and Song Weiming both follow Gu Tongzhen to Luocheng, leading to a tense standoff at Xueyue Tower.
• Gu Tongzhen and Song Weiming: Gu Tongzhen's greed and lust cause him to prioritize his personal pleasures over his duties, leading to a confrontation with Song Weiming.
• Gu Tongzhen and Xu Yuan: Xu Yuan plans to act against Gu Tongzhen but is delayed by Song Weiming's presence.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xu Yuan stays in the city, while Song Weiming and Murong Zunlong plan to ambush him outside the Eagle Beak River.
• Murong Zunlong and his companions are attacked by a Skin Dragon in the river, which transforms into Murong Zunlong's appearance.
• Song Weiming, Gu Tongzhen, and Murong Zunlong (in disguise) attack the Sky-Catching Net, believing Xu Yuan to be trapped inside.
• After the net is dispelled, they find Murong Zunlong's corpse instead of Xu Yuan. Song Weiming and Murong Zunlong's subordinates flee in panic.
• Xu Yuan receives a significant increase in his Dragon Transformation Method cultivation but hasn't reached Third-rate yet.

Character Developments

• Xu Yuan remains calm and strategic, using the Skin Dragon to manipulate events and increase his cultivation.
• Song Weiming's plan backfires, leading to his flight from the city.
• Murong Zunlong's death leaves his subordinates without a leader, causing them to scatter.
• Gu Tongzhen's role in the ambush is unclear, and he disappears after the net is cast.

Significant Themes

• Manipulation and deception: Xu Yuan uses the Skin Dragon to deceive his enemies, while Song Weiming's plot is turned against him.
• Power dynamics: The struggle between the Qu Hui Division, the Shanhe Division, and the Murong Family is evident in their actions and alliances.
• Cultivation and growth: Xu Yuan's cultivation increases, but he faces challenges in advancing further in his Dragon Transformation Method.

Character Interactions

• Xu Yuan and the Skin Dragon work together to manipulate events and increase Xu Yuan's cultivation.
• Song Weiming, Gu Tongzhen, and Murong Zunlong (in disguise) temporarily ally to attack the Sky-Catching Net.
• Murong You and Jia Yuan flee the city after realizing Song Weiming's treachery and Murong Zunlong's death.
• Xu Yuan and Mr. Lan discuss the situation in Zhancheng, with Mr. Lan urging Xu Yuan to return quickly.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Mr. Lan accompanies Xu Yuan to Luocheng, where Xu Yuan meets Zhu Yangshun and his family, and learns about Zhu Zhanmei's feelings for him.
• Xu Yuan returns to Zhancheng and finds Princess Ruicheng has bought houses near the yamen to build a residence for herself.
• Xu Yuan meets with the White Fox, who asks him to investigate Lucheng City God's actions in the Old Market.
• Xu Yuan takes Ge Bei'er to meet Lucheng City God, who reveals that Ge Bei'er's problem can be solved by getting married and registering in the Yin Division.

Character Developments

• Xu Yuan: Shows concern for Ge Bei'er's well-being and takes initiative to help him.
• Ge Bei'er: Decides to marry his Yin General, Seventh Mother, to save his life, demonstrating his love and determination.
• Princess Ruicheng: Continues to show interest in Xu Yuan and his affairs, including buying houses near the yamen.
• Zhu Zhanmei: Develops feelings for Xu Yuan, as indicated by her mother's observations.

Significant Themes

• Love and Sacrifice: Ge Bei'er's decision to marry Seventh Mother to save his life highlights the theme of love and sacrifice. He chooses to bear her sins and face the consequences together, demonstrating his deep affection for her.
• Consequences of Actions: Ge Bei'er's current predicament serves as a reminder of the consequences of one's actions. His initial decision to refine a high-level Shade Soul into a Yin General led to his current situation, emphasizing the importance of careful consideration before acting.
• Power and Influence: Princess Ruicheng's actions, such as buying houses near the yamen, showcase her power and influence. She uses her status to insert herself into Xu Yuan's life and affairs, demonstrating her determination to be close to him.

Character Interactions

• Xu Yuan and Princess Ruicheng: Their interactions continue to be tense, with Xu Yuan trying to maintain a professional distance while Princess Ruicheng persistently inserts herself into his life.
• Xu Yuan and Ge Bei'er: Xu Yuan shows concern for Ge Bei'er's well-being, taking the initiative to help him find a solution to his problem. Their interaction demonstrates a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect.
• Zhu Zhanmei and Xu Yuan: Their relationship remains ambiguous, with Zhu Zhanmei developing feelings for Xu Yuan while he remains unaware of her affections. Their mother's observations hint at the potential for a romantic connection between them.

• Key Plot Points & Events: The author ate noodle soup for lunch, which caused stomach discomfort. Despite this, they managed to write 4,000 characters but left the plot incomplete.
• Character Developments: None significant, as the chapter focuses on the author's personal health and writing progress.
• Significant Themes: The author's dedication to writing despite physical discomfort.
• Character Interactions: None, as the chapter is a personal update from the author.

The Return of the Dragon King

Xu Yuan looked at Wei Jinyuan, "You're back?"
Wei Jinyuan nodded, "I've returned."
Xu Yuan asked, "What about your father?"
Wei Jinyuan's expression darkened, "He's still in the North Capital."
Xu Yuan said, "I heard that the Canal Administration has been investigating the case of the Dragon King's murder. Your father..."
Wei Jinyuan interrupted him, "My father has been implicated."
Xu Yuan nodded, "I see."
He didn't ask any further.
Wei Jinyuan said, "I've come to find you."
Xu Yuan said, "I'm here."
Wei Jinyuan said, "I want to ask you, what did you do to my father?"
Xu Yuan looked at him, "What do you mean?"
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."
Xu Yuan said, "I don't understand what you're saying."
Wei Jinyuan said, "You're the only one who could have done it."

• Luo Bei arrives in Zhancheng with Wei Jinyuan, causing a stir due to his extravagant lifestyle and handsome appearance.
• Luo Bei expresses his desire to befriend Lord Xu, but his intentions are met with suspicion from Wei Jinyuan and the local officials.
• Princess Ruicheng learns about Luo Bei's arrival and is displeased, as she had hoped to use him to make Xu Yuan jealous.
• Xu Yuan, after learning about Luo Bei's preferences, warns Princess Ruicheng, who becomes angry and confesses her feelings to Xu Yuan.
• Xu Yuan is taken aback by Princess Ruicheng's confession and asks for time to consider his feelings.
• Luo Bei, facing rejection from Lord Xu, decides to give him a strange case to investigate, hoping to gain his favor.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Luo Bei, in disguise, arrives in Zhancheng to investigate the Life-Snatching Method and form an alliance with Xu Yuan.
• He discovers the origin of the Life-Snatching Method in a peasant uprising and learns about the collusion between local officials and powerful clans.
• Luo Bei searches for suitable materials in the mountains to create a Flesh and Blood Craft Item, eventually finding a plague insect evil spirit.
• He plans to cause a plague disaster in the Bitter Water Cellar to gain Xu Yuan's gratitude and forge a friendship with him.
• The Fox Sisters, sent by Xu Yuan, disrupt Luo Bei's plan by scaring away the target evil spirit.

Character Developments

• Luo Bei is revealed to be a skilled Artisan Cultivator, specializing in Flesh and Blood Craft Items, and is determined to befriend Xu Yuan.
• Wei Jinyuan, despite his initial disdain for Luo Bei, warns Xu Yuan about Luo Bei's true intentions, showing a change of heart.
• The Fox Sisters and Da Fu, though small and seemingly weak, are feared by other evil spirits due to their reputation and connection to Xu Yuan.

Significant Themes

• The struggle between the rich and the poor, and the exploitation of the weak by the powerful.
• The theme of disguise and deception, as Luo Bei hides his true intentions, and the Fox Sisters' presence hints at Xu Yuan's hidden strength.
• The idea of Fate and the struggle against it, as the evil spirits seek to Defy Heaven and change their Fate.

Character Interactions

• Luo Bei interacts with various evil spirits, trying to manipulate them for his own purposes.
• Wei Jinyuan interacts with Xu Yuan, warning him about Luo Bei's intentions, despite their strained relationship.
• The Fox Sisters interact with the target evil spirit, scaring it away and disrupting Luo Bei's plan.

• Luo Bei, a Divine Cultivator, is in Zhancheng to target Xu Yuan, the city's governor. He plans to use his "Life-Snatching Method" to control evil spirits and cause chaos, framing Xu Yuan for neglecting his duties.
• Luo Bei initially targets a black donkey and a fork-tailed snake in the Bitter Water Cellar, but both refuse to cooperate. He then encounters two small fox-people who seem fearless, making him suspicious of their backing.
• Luo Bei decides to find another target and encounters a flock of geese bullying a little yellow bird. He chooses the little yellow bird as his target, using his "Plague Worm's Fate" spell to control it. However, something goes wrong, and the spell passes through the bird without merging.
• Luo Bei chases after the little yellow bird, but it escapes with his "Plague Worm's Fate." He loses track of it and is left bewildered, unsure of what happened.

Key Plot Points

1. Luo Bei's arrival in Zhancheng and his plan to target Xu Yuan.
2. Luo Bei's initial targets: the black donkey and the fork-tailed snake.
3. The encounter with the two small fox-people and Luo Bei's suspicion of their backing.
4. Luo Bei's choice of the little yellow bird as his target and the failure of his spell.
5. Luo Bei's chase after the little yellow bird and the loss of his "Plague Worm's Fate."

Character Developments

• Luo Bei: Shows determination in his plan to target Xu Yuan and uses his "Life-Snatching Method" to control evil spirits. He becomes frustrated and bewildered when his spell fails.
• The little yellow bird: Initially bullied by a flock of geese, it becomes Luo Bei's target. It escapes with Luo Bei's "Plague Worm's Fate," leaving him confused and unsure of what happened.

Significant Themes

1. Power and control: Luo Bei's desire to control evil spirits and cause chaos in Zhancheng to frame Xu Yuan.
2. Manipulation and betrayal: Luo Bei's plan to use evil spirits for his own gain and his frustration when his spell fails.
3. The struggle of the weak: The little yellow bird's struggle against the flock of geese and its eventual escape with Luo Bei's "Plague Worm's Fate."

Character Interactions

• Luo Bei interacts with the black donkey, the fork-tailed snake, and the little yellow bird, attempting to control them using his "Life-Snatching Method."
• The little yellow bird interacts with the flock of geese, being bullied and driven out of its nest.

• Xu Yuan summarizes the chapter:
  • Key plot points:
    • Da Fu agrees to perform in the play but gets upset when Xu Yuan tricks him.
    • Luo Bei searches for the missing plague insects and suspects Xu Yuan.
    • Xu Yuan discovers Luo Bei's ability to strip Fate and creates a cluster of "Plague Worm's Fate."
    • Xu Yuan and Your Highness plan to investigate Luo Bei together.
  • Character developments:
    • Da Fu shows loyalty to Xu Yuan but gets tricked by "Make a Dream Come True."
    • Luo Bei becomes obsessed with finding the missing plague insects and suspects Xu Yuan.
    • Xu Yuan discovers Luo Bei's unique ability and plans to counter it.
    • Your Highness decides to accompany Xu Yuan to investigate Luo Bei.
  • Significant themes:
    • Trust and deception: Da Fu is tricked by "Make a Dream Come True," and Luo Bei suspects Xu Yuan.
    • Power struggle: Xu Yuan and Luo Bei engage in a power struggle, with Your Highness supporting Xu Yuan.
  • Character interactions:
    • Da Fu and Xu Yuan: Da Fu is tricked by "Make a Dream Come True" but ultimately remains loyal to Xu Yuan.
    • Luo Bei and Xu Yuan: Luo Bei suspects Xu Yuan and plans to investigate him, while Xu Yuan discovers Luo Bei's ability and plans to counter it.
    • Xu Yuan and Your Highness: They plan to investigate Luo Bei together, with Your Highness supporting Xu Yuan.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Luo Bei and Zhu Zhanlei discuss local customs and evil spirits, with Luo Bei expressing interest in visiting the Old Market.
• Xu Yuan discovers, through "Fate Gazing," that Luo Bei has likely seized the Fate of the original Luo family child, making him an old monster over a hundred years old.
• Luo Bei and Zhu Zhanlei go to the Little West Temple Old Market. Luo Bei buys a fan for Zhu Zhanlei and inquires about two fox spirits at Old Appraiser Zhang's shop, who refuse to provide information due to the fox spirits' powerful backers.

Character Developments

• Luo Bei: Shows curiosity about local customs and evil spirits, and later expresses interest in the two fox spirits. His true age and origins are revealed to be suspicious.
• Xu Yuan: Discovers Luo Bei's secret and shares his findings with his companions. He also receives a gift from Princess Ruicheng.
• Zhu Zhanlei: Acts as a guide for Luo Bei in the Old Market, helping him buy the fan and leading him to Old Appraiser Zhang's shop. He is more open with Luo Bei than with Xu Yuan.

Significant Themes

• Possession and identity: Luo Bei's true age and origins are revealed, challenging the notion of one's true self and raising questions about possession and identity theft.
• Power dynamics: The fear of being possessed by evil spirits is a common theme in the story, reflecting the power dynamics between humans and supernatural entities.
• Trust and deception: Luo Bei's true nature raises questions about trust and deception, as he has been deceiving those around him about his true identity.

Character Interactions

• Luo Bei and Zhu Zhanlei: They interact as equals, with Luo Bei helping Zhu Zhanlei buy the fan and Zhu Zhanlei guiding Luo Bei through the Old Market.
• Xu Yuan and his companions: They discuss Luo Bei's true nature and plan their next move. Xu Yuan also receives a gift from Princess Ruicheng, indicating her affection towards him.
• Luo Bei and Old Appraiser Zhang: Their interaction is tense, with Old Appraiser Zhang refusing to provide information about the two fox spirits due to their powerful backers.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Luo Bei struggles to gather funds for the information about the Fox Sisters.
• He borrows money from Wei Jinyuan and later encounters Wu Tianfang, a Fourth Stream cultivator from the Wu Family, who suspects Xu Yuan's involvement in the deaths of Dragon Transformation Family members.
• Luo Bei finally obtains the information about the Fox Sisters from Old Appraiser Zhang, who reveals they are backed by the mysterious Black Fox Lord of Ghost Witch Mountain.

Character Developments

• Luo Bei becomes desperate to find the Fox Sisters and the plague worm fate, leading him to borrow money from Wei Jinyuan.
• Wu Tianfang shows arrogance and suspicion towards Xu Yuan, hinting at potential conflict.
• Old Appraiser Zhang displays cunning and greed but ultimately provides the information Luo Bei seeks.

Significant Themes

• Greed and its consequences (Old Appraiser Zhang, Wu Tianfang)
• Desperation and the lengths one will go to achieve their goals (Luo Bei)
• Suspicion and its role in driving action (Wu Tianfang)

Character Interactions

• Luo Bei and Zhu Zhanlei: Luo Bei relies on Zhu Zhanlei to navigate the Old Market and obtain information, while Zhu Zhanlei sees Luo Bei as a potential source of income.
• Luo Bei and Wei Jinyuan: Luo Bei borrows money from Wei Jinyuan, further entangling their fates.
• Wu Tianfang and Xu Yuan: Wu Tianfang suspects Xu Yuan's involvement in the deaths of Dragon Transformation Family members, setting the stage for a potential confrontation.
• Luo Bei and Old Appraiser Zhang: Despite their initial disagreement on price, Luo Bei eventually obtains the information he seeks from Old Appraiser Zhang.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Luo Bei borrows 300,000 taels of silver from the Wu Family's money shop, using a shop in North Capital as collateral.
• Wu Tianfang, sent by the Dragon Guard to investigate Xu Yuan, openly threatens him in a teahouse but secretly plans to avoid investigating Xu Yuan.
• Luo Bei enters Ghost Witch Mountain, seeking the Black Fox Master to negotiate for his life.
• The Luo Family sends representatives, including a Fate Cultivator, to Zhancheng to investigate Luo Bei's accusation of Fate Stealing.

Character Developments

• Luo Bei: Desperate to find the Black Fox Master to save his life, he becomes increasingly anxious and impulsive.
• Wu Tianfang: Corrupt and cowardly, he avoids his duty to investigate Xu Yuan and schemes to profit from Luo Bei's loan.
• Xu Yuan: Calm and calculated, he prepares to confront the Luo Family representatives and exposes Luo Bei's Fate Stealing.
• Luo Gonglian and others: Skeptical of Luo Bei's accusation, they arrive in Zhancheng to investigate and reclaim their family's rights.

Significant Themes

• The consequences of corruption and avoiding responsibility (Wu Tianfang).
• The struggle between loyalty to family and truth (Luo Gonglian and others).
• The power dynamics between prominent families and the law (Xu Yuan vs. the Luo Family).

Character Interactions

• Luo Bei and the weasels: Luo Bei uses the weasels to find the Black Fox Master, threatening them to ensure their cooperation.
• Xu Yuan and the Luo Family representatives: Xu Yuan exposes Luo Bei's Fate Stealing to the Luo Family, leading to a tense confrontation.
• Wu Tianfang and the Luocheng manager: Wu Tianfang pressures the manager into lending money to Luo Bei, threatening him to ensure his cooperation.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Luo Bei's true identity is revealed; he's a monster who stole the real Luo Bei's Fate and identity.
• Luo Bei is pursued by the Luo family and Xu Yuan.
• Luo Bei uses various Craft Items and his stolen Fates to defend against the Luo family's attacks.
• Luo Gonglian uses a drop of Netherworld Water to dissolve Luo Bei's flesh mountain, leading to his defeat.

Character Developments

• Luo Bei: Revealed to be a monster who stole the real Luo Bei's Fate. He's desperate, greedy, and malicious, showing no remorse for his actions.
• Xu Yuan: Displayed his powerful Fate Imprints, which are capable of suppressing Luo Bei's stolen Fates. He remains calm and composed throughout the chase.
• Yuan Muping: Uses Fate Gazing to glimpse Xu Yuan's Fate Imprints, revealing his extraordinary potential. She becomes cautious and respectful towards Xu Yuan.
• Luo Gonglian: Shows extreme hatred towards Luo Bei. He uses his ancestor's Craft Items and Netherworld Water to defeat Luo Bei.

Significant Themes

• Identity and Deception: Luo Bei's true identity is revealed, highlighting the theme of deception and the consequences of living a false life.
• Power and Greed: Luo Bei's greed for power and Fates leads to his downfall. Xu Yuan's powerful Fate Imprints hint at the potential for future power dynamics.
• Family and Betrayal: The Luo family's pursuit of Luo Bei explores the theme of betrayal within families. Luo Bei's fear of his family and their potential countermeasures against him shows his paranoia.

Character Interactions

• Luo Bei vs. Luo Family: The Luo family pursues Luo Bei, leading to a climactic battle. Luo Bei's stolen Fates and Craft Items allow him to put up a fight, but ultimately, he's defeated by Luo Gonglian's Netherworld Water.
• Xu Yuan vs. Luo Bei: Xu Yuan's powerful Fate Imprints suppress Luo Bei's stolen Fates, contributing to his defeat. Their interaction hints at a potential future conflict or alliance.
• Yuan Muping vs. Xu Yuan: Yuan Muping uses Fate Gazing to glimpse Xu Yuan's Fate Imprints, leading to her respect and caution towards him. Their interaction hints at a potential future alliance or rivalry.