Ch. 21The Devil's Trail
Key Plot Points and Events
- Wang Xian spends a quiet New Year's Eve with his master, making wishes and watching fireworks, expressing his happiness and determination to help his master.
- Two women from the East Sea, Nangong Feiyan and Nangong Zhilan, visit the Daoist temple, seeking the old Daoist's help regarding Bai Youyue's appearance at Kunlun.
- Nangong Feiyan examines Wang Xian and discovers that the Yin Cold Qi inflicted by Hundred Flowers Granny contains a trace of Cold Poison, which Wang Xian can slowly refine using the Yang Heart Method.
- Nangong Feiyan and Nangong Zhilan decide to stay at the Daoist temple for a few more days.
- Wang Xian goes to the back mountain to dig up winter bamboo shoots but is stopped by a mysterious figure.
Character Developments
- Wang Xian: Shows determination to help his master, displays caution after his encounter with Hundred Flowers Granny, and demonstrates resilience in dealing with the Cold Poison.
- Old Daoist: Reveals his concern for Wang Xian's well-being, shows respect for Nangong Feiyan and Nangong Zhilan, and displays wisdom in handling the situation with Bai Youyue.
- Nangong Feiyan: Shows kindness towards Wang Xian, concern for the situation at Kunlun, and expertise in identifying and treating the Cold Poison.
- Nangong Zhilan: Supports Nangong Feiyan's decisions, shows concern for the situation at Kunlun, and maintains a cold demeanor.
Significant Themes
- Loyalty and determination: Wang Xian's commitment to helping his master and supporting him financially.
- Resilience and adaptability: Wang Xian's ability to cope with the Cold Poison and his master's challenges.
- Wisdom and experience: The old Daoist's handling of the situation with the East Sea women and his knowledge of the Yang Heart Method.
- Concern and responsibility: Nangong Feiyan and Nangong Zhilan's worry about the situation at Kunlun and their desire to protect its disciples and elders.
Character Interactions
- Wang Xian and the old Daoist: The master-disciple relationship is strengthened as they spend New Year's Eve together, share their plans for the future, and discuss their concerns.
- Wang Xian and Nangong Feiyan: Nangong Feiyan shows kindness and concern for Wang Xian, examining him and providing guidance on dealing with the Cold Poison.
- Nangong Feiyan and Nangong Zhilan: The two sisters from the East Sea work together, supporting each other in their decisions and sharing their concerns about the situation at Kunlun.
- The old Daoist and Nangong Feiyan/Nangong Zhilan: The old Daoist shows respect for the East Sea women, seeking their help in dealing with the situation involving Bai Youyue and offering them hospitality.