Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

+ Chen Xia learns about the Lifespan-Eroding Pill, which can help him break through to Grandmaster but shortens his lifespan.
+ He decides to attend the Hongsheng Auction House in Lingfeng City, Zhao Kingdom, to find this pill.
+ Chen Xia breaks through to the late stage of Golden Body before leaving for the Outer Domain.

Character Developments

+ Chen Xia becomes more determined to break through to Grandmaster, even if it means risking his lifespan.
+ Long Xiao, captured by Chen Xia, reveals information about the Lifespan-Eroding Pill and the upcoming auction.

Significant Themes

+ The pursuit of power and its consequences (Chen Xia's willingness to risk his lifespan for a breakthrough).
+ The allure of auctions and the economic impact they have on cities (Lingfeng City's bustling atmosphere and increased security).

Character Interactions

+ Chen Xia interacts with Zhou Zhengming and the others at Haixing Base before leaving for the Outer Domain.
+ Chen Xia captures Long Xiao and extracts information about the Lifespan-Eroding Pill and the auction.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia travels to the Outer Domain for an auction, aiming to buy Lifespan-Eroding Pills and gain Grandmaster experience.
• He encounters familiar faces from his previous journey, including the twin sisters from the Spirit Flower Palace and Xu Baiyan from the Yaoguang Sect.
• Chen Xia observes that Xu Baiyan is at the late Golden Body stage, while the twin sisters have reached the middle Flying Heaven stage.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia has improved his physical and mental defense, mental attacks, fire attributes, and explosive cultivation arts, making him a formidable expert in the Outer Domain.
• He has also attached the crystal chip to his chest to avoid suspicion and changed his appearance to remain incognito.

Significant Themes

• The pursuit of strength and cultivation resources is a central theme, with Chen Xia seeking to improve his abilities and purchase valuable items at the auction.
• Disguise and recognition are also prominent themes, as Chen Xia tries to avoid detection while navigating the Outer Domain.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia observes the twin sisters and Xu Baiyan from a distance, showing interest in their cultivation levels and activities.
• The twin sisters discuss their senior sister's quest for a Soaring Dragon Pill and briefly mention Chen Xia, showing curiosity about his whereabouts.

Chapter Summary: “Netherworld”

Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia arrives at Hongsheng Auction House in Lingfeng City for the upcoming auction. Since he lacks an invitation, he verifies his eligibility by presenting six thousand Star Essence Stones.
• He is classified as a Mystic-grade guest and assigned to Private Room Mystic Twenty-Seven. Before settling in, he carefully inspects the room for surveillance formations and confirms it is secure.
• Chen Xia consumes a Cultivation-Enhancing Pill and considers his objective: acquiring Lifespan-Eroding Pills, which may help him progress toward the Grandmaster realm. He believes they are a cheaper substitute for the extremely expensive Soaring Dragon Pill.
• Using his enhanced Bat Technique, Chen Xia monitors much of Lingfeng City through thousands of Blood Shadow Bats. At the auction house, he notices a silver-robed, masked man whose presence and movements identify him as a likely Sky Net assassin.
• The assassin is revealed to be Netherworld, a middle Golden Body-realm expert and a trusted subordinate of Sky Net’s leader, Bai Heng. Netherworld confirms that Chen Xia is carrying the spirit tablet of Migratory Bird, a former Sky Net assassin, allowing him to identify Chen Xia.
• Bai Heng orders Netherworld not to confront Chen Xia directly. Instead, he has arranged a coordinated attack involving the Winged Race and has gone to meet the Provincial Governor of Lingfeng City.
• The chapter ends at the Wu Residence, where Bai Heng is meeting Governor Wu. A chest containing one thousand Star Essence Stones suggests that Bai Heng may be bribing or negotiating with the governor as part of his plan.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia: Demonstrates extreme caution, resourcefulness, and increasing power. He uses disguises, asset verification, surveillance bats, and careful inspection of his room to protect his identity and detect threats. His immediate goal remains finding resources to accelerate his cultivation.
• Netherworld: Introduced as a highly capable Sky Net assassin with a specialized ability, the Netherworld Eye, which lets him sense Migratory Bird’s unique aura. He is personally motivated by revenge for Chen Xia’s destruction of a Sky Net branch and the deaths of its assassins.
• Bai Heng: Revealed to be directly managing the pursuit of Chen Xia. Rather than relying on a simple assassination, he develops a larger alliance with the Winged Race and possibly local political authorities, showing strategic patience and organizational influence.
• Governor Wu: Appears to be involved in Bai Heng’s scheme, though his exact role is not yet confirmed. His meeting with Bai Heng and the chest of Star Essence Stones imply a possible bribery arrangement.

Significant Themes

• Caution in unfamiliar territory: Chen Xia’s isolation in the Outer Domain forces him to rely on observation, preparation, and personal ability rather than established allies or information networks.
• Hidden identities and surveillance: Disguises, spirit-storage treasures, detection abilities, formations, and Chen Xia’s bats emphasize the constant struggle between concealment and discovery.
• Revenge and blood debts: Sky Net’s pursuit is driven not only by orders but also by resentment over Chen Xia’s destruction of their branch hall and assassination of their members.
• Power and political influence: Bai Heng’s cooperation with the Winged Race and Governor Wu shows that conflicts are shaped by alliances, bribery, and institutional power as well as individual strength.
• Cultivation and resource inequality: Chen Xia’s search for Lifespan-Eroding Pills highlights how advancement depends on rare resources, wealth, talent, and specialized opportunities.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia cooperates with the auction house guards and maid, presenting his assets and accepting his assigned private room while remaining wary of the establishment.
• He notices Netherworld’s suspicious behavior, though Netherworld’s true identity and intentions are hidden from the other auction guests.
• Netherworld communicates with Bai Heng through a jade talisman, reporting Chen Xia’s presence and confirming his identity.
• Bai Heng instructs Netherworld to observe rather than attack, revealing the broader plan involving the Winged Race.
• Bai Heng then meets Governor Wu, with the Star Essence Stones indicating a potentially corrupt or strategic agreement that may help trap Chen Xia.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Bai Heng, leader of Sky Net, seeks Governor Wu's help to capture Chen Xia, offering bribes and promising future favors. Governor Wu agrees but sets conditions.
• Long Xiao's father, Long Yuan, and his brother, Long Wu, arrive in Lingfeng City to assist in capturing Chen Xia.
• Chen Xia decides to stay for the auction despite the impending danger.
• The auction begins, with Chen Xia waiting for the Lifespan-Eroding Pill.

Character Developments

• Bai Heng shows determination and resourcefulness in pursuing Chen Xia.
• Governor Wu demonstrates his power and influence, as well as his willingness to be bribed.
• Long Yuan reveals his desire for revenge and the Lion Soul treasure.
• Chen Xia exhibits caution and strategic thinking, deciding to stay for the auction despite the risk.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and corruption, as seen in the interactions between Bai Heng, Governor Wu, and the auction house.
• The pursuit of power and revenge, as demonstrated by Long Yuan and Bai Heng.
• The allure of treasure and the risks one takes for it, as shown by Chen Xia's decision to stay for the auction.

Character Interactions

• Bai Heng and Governor Wu negotiate, with Bai Heng attempting to bribe Governor Wu for his cooperation.
• Long Yuan and Long Wu discuss their plans to capture Chen Xia.
• Chen Xia interacts with the twin sisters and Sun Ying from Spirit Flower Palace, though briefly and without conversation.
• The auction host interacts with the bidders, facilitating the auction process.

Chapter Summary: “Successful Reversal”

Key Plot Points and Events

• At the auction, the host introduces the Lifespan-Eroding Pill, a pill refined from Bone-Eroding Flowers that can strengthen and open the Ren and Du Meridians, helping Golden Body cultivators break through to the Grandmaster realm.
• Each pill normally costs the user eight years of lifespan, and at least fifteen are required for a breakthrough. Because of this severe drawback, the auction attendees show little interest.
• Chen Xia recognizes the pill as essentially an inexpensive substitute for the Soaring Dragon Pill and immediately bids 400 Star Essence Stones.
• He purchases thirteen pills for 5,200 Star Essence Stones, bringing his total supply—including two Soaring Dragon Pills he already possessed—close to what he needs for his future breakthrough.
• Chen Xia checks the system panel and discovers that the pills can undergo Negative Reversal. For 6,000 Negative Energy per pill, the lifespan loss can be transformed into an eight-year lifespan increase.
• He secretly leaves the auction hall, reverses one pill successfully, and confirms that its harmful effects have been removed while its beneficial effects remain.
• He then reverses all thirteen pills, spending 78,000 Negative Energy. The pills become enhanced versions of the Soaring Dragon Pill, capable of strengthening the Ren and Du Meridians while increasing lifespan.
• Chen Xia stores the pills and is relieved and delighted, confident that the benefits far outweigh the Negative Energy he spent.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia demonstrates his confidence, decisiveness, and ability to exploit information others overlook. He remains unfazed by the auction guests’ pity and misunderstanding, viewing the pills as valuable resources rather than dangerous last resorts.
• His cautious and secretive nature becomes clearer: he realizes that revealing the reversal ability would make him a target for powerful factions, so he keeps the discovery entirely to himself.
• Yun Tiantian shows concern for Chen Xia, warning him that consuming more than ten pills would cost over a century of lifespan. She misunderstands his purpose but respects his refusal to explain.
• Yun Xi remains silent and observant.
• Sun Ying becomes wary of Chen Xia, judging him to be potentially dangerous because someone willing to sacrifice his lifespan for a breakthrough might become especially ruthless after reaching Grandmaster.

Significant Themes

• Hidden value and misunderstood choices: The crowd sees the pills as nearly useless because of their lifespan cost, while Chen Xia understands their true potential.
• The importance of secret advantages: Chen Xia’s ability to reverse negative effects gives him an extraordinary advantage, but he recognizes that knowledge of it would bring danger.
• Power versus longevity: The pills represent the common martial-arts dilemma of sacrificing one’s future for immediate strength, though Chen Xia’s reversal eliminates that trade-off.
• Pragmatism and opportunity: Chen Xia ignores public opinion and acts according to his own calculations, turning an undesirable auction item into a priceless resource.
• Preparation for advancement: The reversed pills significantly improve Chen Xia’s prospects of breaking through to Grandmaster while also potentially extending his lifespan.

Character Interactions

• The auction host explains the pills’ benefits and risks to the assembled guests, prompting widespread skepticism.
• Chen Xia’s bid draws attention and pity from the entire auction hall, who assume he is desperate or seeking revenge.
• Yun Tiantian directly cautions Chen Xia against taking the pills, but he gives only a vague reply about having his own plans.
• Sun Ying offers Chen Xia a polite smile while privately considering him foolish and dangerous; Chen Xia responds with only a brief nod.
• Overall, the chapter contrasts the others’ concern and suspicion with Chen Xia’s private excitement as he successfully transforms the pills into powerful, beneficial treasures.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia plans to leave Lingfeng City after obtaining the items he needs.
• A dual cultivation technique, Dragon-Phoenix Creation Art, is auctioned.
• Chen Xia initially has no interest in the technique but changes his mind after considering its potential benefits for Jiang Xinglan.
• He bids against Young Master Long, who eventually buys the technique for 20,000 Star Essence Stones.
• Chen Xia leaves the auction house, followed by assassins sent by Sky Net and Long Yuan.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia shows his determination to help Jiang Xinglan advance quickly by considering the dual cultivation technique's potential benefits for her.
• Young Master Long displays his wealth and willingness to outbid others to obtain what he wants.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics and competition in the cultivation world are highlighted through the auction and the subsequent chase.
• The potential benefits and drawbacks of dual cultivation techniques are discussed, emphasizing the importance of moderation and avoiding dependency.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia and Young Master Long engage in a bidding war for the Dragon-Phoenix Creation Art.
• The Yun Xi sisters scrutinize Chen Xia after he shows interest in the dual cultivation technique, revealing their disapproval of such practices.
• Sky Net and Long Yuan send assassins to pursue and kill Chen Xia after he leaves the auction house.

Chapter Summary: “Leverage, Third Update”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lingfeng City’s protective formation activates, sealing the entire city beneath a vast white barrier and preventing Chen Xia from escaping.
• Governor Wu reveals that he has arranged the ambush after identifying Chen Xia as the imperial fugitive targeted for assassination. He has hired or cooperated with two Grandmasters: Bai Heng, leader of Sky Net’s assassins, and Long Yuan, a foreign-race clan chief.
• Numerous assassins surround Chen Xia while citizens, auction guests, the Yun sisters, and Young Master Long watch the confrontation from nearby rooftops.
• Chen Xia openly identifies Bai Heng and accuses both Grandmasters of violating Zhao Kingdom law by cooperating with a foreign race. He warns them that killing him will not be easy.
• Long Yuan launches a devastating blade attack, but Chen Xia releases and seizes the spirit of Long Xiao, Long Yuan’s beloved deceased son. He uses the spirit as leverage, threatening to destroy it if Long Yuan continues attacking.
• Long Yuan immediately hesitates and diverts his attack, accidentally destroying buildings and opening a huge ravine in the city instead of striking Chen Xia.
• Long Xiao pretends to plead for his father’s help, intensifying Long Yuan’s grief and making him unwilling to risk the spirit’s destruction. Long Yuan insists that his son may still have a chance at resurrection.
• Bai Heng tries to convince Long Yuan to ignore his son’s spirit and kill Chen Xia before Chen Xia grows strong enough to threaten them in the future. When Long Yuan refuses, Bai Heng secretly orders the surrounding assassins to attack.
• Bai Heng launches a sudden, lethal sword strike at Chen Xia while Long Yuan is unable to intervene. The chapter ends with the crowd believing Chen Xia is certain to die.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia: Remains calm despite being trapped by a city-wide formation and surrounded by two Grandmasters. He reveals his strategic nature, relying not only on strength and endurance but also on psychological leverage. Though he possesses powerful defensive means and abundant Negative Energy, he prefers manipulating the situation rather than risking a direct battle.
• Long Yuan: Changes from a confident aggressor into a distraught and conflicted father after discovering that Long Xiao’s spirit survives. His love for his son overwhelms his desire for revenge, causing him to abandon his attack and oppose Bai Heng’s plan.
• Bai Heng: Is shown to be ruthless, calculating, and unwilling to let emotion interfere with his objective. He views Chen Xia as a future threat and attempts to exploit Long Yuan’s hesitation before resorting to a surprise attack.
• Long Xiao: Though dead, his preserved spirit becomes an important tool in Chen Xia’s plan. He cooperates by pretending to beg for help, making Long Yuan’s emotional conflict even stronger.
• Governor Wu: Acts as a corrupt local official who has accepted payment or favors to facilitate Chen Xia’s assassination and ensure that he cannot escape.
• Onlookers: The Yun sisters recognize Chen Xia from earlier encounters, while Young Master Long identifies him as the man who previously competed with him at the auction. Both groups remain observers rather than intervening.

Significant Themes

• Leverage versus brute force: Chen Xia survives overwhelming strength by exploiting Long Yuan’s emotional attachment instead of confronting both Grandmasters directly.
• Family loyalty and grief: Long Yuan’s love for his son causes him to abandon a seemingly certain victory, demonstrating how personal bonds can overpower political alliances and revenge.
• Betrayal and corruption: Governor Wu and the assassins violate laws and manipulate local authority for personal gain, while Bai Heng cooperates with a foreign race despite legal prohibitions.
• Pragmatism and survival: Chen Xia emphasizes preserving his future rather than proving himself through a reckless battle. His willingness to use morally uncomfortable tactics reflects his practical approach to danger.
• Public spectacle and hidden motives: The city’s citizens and elite spectators view the confrontation as entertainment, while the combatants pursue deeper goals involving revenge, political law, and future threats.

Important Character Interactions

• Chen Xia and Governor Wu: Governor Wu treats Chen Xia as a condemned criminal, while Chen Xia recognizes the official’s role in arranging the trap.
• Chen Xia and Bai Heng: Chen Xia exposes Bai Heng’s identity and unlawful alliance, but Bai Heng dismisses the threat and remains determined to kill him.
• Chen Xia and Long Yuan: Chen Xia exploits their relationship by holding Long Xiao’s spirit hostage. Long Yuan’s emotional reaction forces him to stop attacking.
• Bai Heng and Long Yuan: Bai Heng pressures Long Yuan to prioritize killing Chen Xia, but Long Yuan angrily rejects him, accusing him of lacking a father’s compassion.
• Chen Xia and Long Xiao: Chen Xia directs Long Xiao’s spirit to help deceive Long Yuan, turning the dead son into the key to his survival.
• The observers and Chen Xia: The Yun sisters and Young Master Long recognize Chen Xia from previous encounters and watch as his apparently hopeless situation develops into a dangerous confrontation.
  The chapter closes on a cliffhanger as Bai Heng’s surprise sword attack reaches Chen Xia, with the surrounding spectators convinced that the Golden Body cultivator cannot survive.

Key Plot Points and Events

1. Chen Xia evades Bai Heng's assassination strike using his peak Explosive Qi Art, Blood Demon Illusion God, Earthcore Flame, and Lion Armor.
2. Chen Xia and Bai Heng clash, resulting in a massive explosion, but Chen Xia remains unharmed.
3. Chen Xia offers Long Yuan a deal: help him kill Bai Heng, and he will return Long Xiao's spirit. Long Yuan agrees, turning against Bai Heng.
4. Bai Heng and Long Yuan fight, with Chen Xia waiting for an opportunity to strike.
5. Chen Xia kills most of the Sky Net assassins on the ground using the Lion Soul technique.
6. Chen Xia uses the Eye of the Evil God to strike Bai Heng, followed by a heavy blow from Long Yuan.

Character Developments

1. Chen Xia demonstrates exceptional defensive capabilities, withstanding a grandmaster's attack and evading another.
2. Long Yuan's desire to protect his son's spirit leads him to turn against Bai Heng and join forces with Chen Xia.
3. Bai Heng becomes increasingly frustrated and determined to kill Chen Xia, despite Long Yuan's betrayal.

Significant Themes

1. The power of determination and resolve, as shown by Long Yuan's unwavering commitment to protecting his son's spirit.
2. The consequences of underestimating one's opponent, as seen in Bai Heng's growing frustration and inability to kill Chen Xia.
3. The importance of adaptability and resourcefulness, demonstrated by Chen Xia's ability to turn the tables on his enemies.

Character Interactions

1. Chen Xia and Long Yuan form an uneasy alliance, with Chen Xia using Long Xiao's spirit as leverage to convince Long Yuan to help him.
2. Bai Heng and Long Yuan's partnership crumbles as Long Yuan prioritizes his son's spirit over their shared goal of killing Chen Xia.
3. The Sky Net assassins on the ground clash with Chen Xia, but they are ultimately no match for his strength and are mostly killed.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia, with Long Yuan's help and using the Eye of the Evil God, defeats and kills Bai Heng, the Grandmaster leader of Sky Net.
• Bai Heng's death marks the end of Sky Net's influence.
• Chen Xia absorbs Bai Heng's soul to strengthen his Spirit-Calling Bone Staff.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia: Demonstrates immense power and ruthlessness, killing a Grandmaster and absorbing his soul to enhance his artifact. His strength is now close to that of a Grandmaster.
• Long Yuan: Realizes the gravity of his actions and the threat Chen Xia poses. He understands that Chen Xia, if left alive, will become unstoppable once he breaks through to Grandmaster.

Significant Themes

• Power and Ruthlessness: Chen Xia's victory over Bai Heng highlights the importance of power and ruthlessness in the martial world. His actions send a clear message that he will not hesitate to eliminate threats.
• Consequences of Actions: Long Yuan's decision to side with Chen Xia has severe consequences, leading to Bai Heng's death and the end of Sky Net. This underscores the theme of actions having irreversible outcomes.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia and Long Yuan: Their alliance, though temporary, leads to Bai Heng's defeat. Long Yuan's realization of Chen Xia's threat sets the stage for potential future conflict.
• Chen Xia and Bai Heng: Their final confrontation ends with Bai Heng's death, marking a significant turning point in Chen Xia's power and reputation.

Chapter Summary: “Changsha King, Third Update”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia successfully kills Bai Heng, a Grandmaster, after exploiting the injuries Bai Heng suffered from Long Yuan’s attack. Chen uses the Eye of the Evil God and the broken sword to create the opening needed for the final blow.
• Witnesses are shocked by Chen Xia’s strength and courage. His victory against a Grandmaster while only in the late Golden Body Realm establishes him as an extraordinary young powerhouse.
• Chen returns to Lingfeng City through the damaged sealing formation, intending to collect the Negative Energy and spoils left behind by the defeated Sky Net assassins.
• Long Yuan reminds Chen Xia of their agreement: Long Yuan helped him fight Bai Heng, so Chen must return Long Yuan’s son, Long Xiao.
• After gathering over a thousand points of Negative Energy and several storage bags, Chen releases Long Xiao’s spirit and throws it back to Long Yuan. He declares their debts settled and warns Long Yuan not to pursue him.
• Chen then confronts Provincial Governor Wu, who attempts to escape and threatens Chen by invoking the authority of the Changsha King.
• Chen ignores the threat, condemning Governor Wu for colluding with foreign races and misusing Lingfeng City’s protective formation.
• Chen orders his Lion Soul to attack. The giant ancient lion crushes Governor Wu against the city wall, killing him instantly. Chen takes his possessions and Negative Energy.
• Chen leaves Lingfeng City through the opening in the grand formation. Long Yuan watches silently and does not interfere.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia: Demonstrates tactical intelligence, fearlessness, and ruthlessness. He acknowledges that Bai Heng’s death depended partly on Long Yuan’s prior injury, showing clear awareness of his own limitations. His confidence grows after obtaining Bai Heng’s spoils and preparing to break through into the Grandmaster Realm. He also becomes increasingly willing to kill anyone who threatens him, regardless of status or political protection.
• Long Yuan: Proves instrumental in weakening Bai Heng through his powerful Dragon Soul ability. Although he remains Chen’s potential enemy, he honors their temporary cooperation and waits for Chen to return Long Xiao. His silence at the end suggests caution and perhaps recognition of Chen’s growing power.
• Governor Wu: Changes from an influential imperial official into a desperate, frightened fugitive. His reliance on the Changsha King’s authority fails because Chen Xia has no allegiance to the Zhao Kingdom and refuses to be intimidated.
• Sun Ying and Yun Xi: Recognize Chen Xia as an exceptional genius whose victory will spread throughout the Zhao Kingdom. Their reactions reflect the growing reputation Chen is gaining among local martial artists.

Significant Themes

• Power beyond social status: Governor Wu’s official position and connection to the Changsha King cannot protect him from someone vastly stronger and outside the Zhao Kingdom’s political system.
• Pragmatism and temporary alliances: Chen and Long Yuan cooperate because their interests align, despite remaining potential enemies. Their agreement is based on mutual benefit rather than trust.
• Reputation and fear: Chen’s victory transforms him into a figure known throughout the Zhao Kingdom, while spectators begin to fear both his strength and the possible consequences of conflict between the Federation and Northern Mang.
• Justice versus vengeance: Chen presents Governor Wu’s killing as punishment for betraying Zhao Kingdom law and aiding foreign races, though his actions are also clearly driven by retaliation against someone involved in trying to kill him.
• Growth and preparation: The battle gives Chen valuable spoils, Negative Energy, and confidence that he is close to reaching the Grandmaster Realm.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia and Long Yuan: Their tense cooperation concludes when Chen returns Long Xiao’s spirit. Chen emphasizes that their debts are settled, while Long Yuan refrains from attacking.
• Chen Xia and Governor Wu: Governor Wu threatens Chen with the Changsha King’s authority, but Chen dismisses the threat and kills him through the Lion Soul.
• Chen Xia and the witnesses: The spectators view Chen with a mixture of admiration, fear, and suspicion because he is a powerful outsider from the Federation.
• Chen Xia and the Lion Soul: Chen commands the Lion Soul as an independent ancient demon beast, showcasing the growing usefulness and power of the soul he possesses.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Long Yuan promises to help restore Long Xiao's body.
• Chen Xia leaves Lingfeng City unharmed after defeating Bai Heng and Governor Wu.
• Lü Wenbin, a young man from the demon race, approaches Chen Xia and gifts him the Dragon-Phoenix Creation Art, expressing gratitude for Chen Xia's actions against Sky Net.
• Chen Xia decides to use the Dragon-Phoenix Creation Art to improve Jiang Xinglan's cultivation.
• Chen Xia finds a secluded spot to break through to the grandmaster realm, using the resources he gained from Bai Heng and the other assassins.

Character Developments

• Long Xiao: Recognizes Chen Xia's power and accepts his spirit's return, understanding that Chen Xia has secrets but is not an easy opponent to provoke.
• Chen Xia: Shows restraint in not killing Long Xiao and demonstrates his power, earning respect from Long Xiao and Lü Wenbin. He also displays generosity in accepting Lü Wenbin's gift.
• Lü Wenbin: Shows wisdom in befriending Chen Xia, understanding the value of connections and potential future benefits.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and respect: Chen Xia's power earns him respect from Long Xiao and Lü Wenbin.
• Connections and alliances: Lü Wenbin values building connections with powerful individuals.
• Generosity and reciprocity: Chen Xia accepts Lü Wenbin's gift, understanding the potential future benefits of their connection.

Character Interactions

• Long Yuan and Long Xiao: The father-son duo discusses Chen Xia's power and the need to avoid him in the future.
• Chen Xia and Lü Wenbin: The two meet briefly, with Lü Wenbin gifting Chen Xia the Dragon-Phoenix Creation Art and expressing gratitude for his actions against Sky Net.
• Chen Xia and Jiang Xinglan: Chen Xia plans to use the Dragon-Phoenix Creation Art to improve Jiang Xinglan's cultivation.

Chapter Summary: Zhao Kingdom Court Assembly

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia enters prolonged seclusion to break through to the Grandmaster realm. He consumes over seven thousand Star Essence Stones, numerous restorative pills, and thirteen Lifespan-Eroding Pills designed to attack and strengthen his Ren and Du Meridians.
• The pills cause him severe physical pain and discomfort, but Chen Xia endures it, focusing entirely on completing his Golden Body and overcoming his meridian bottleneck.
• News spreads throughout the Zhao Kingdom that Chen Xia, a Federation powerhouse, killed Governor Wu, an imperial official and collaborator with the southern foreign races.
• The Zhao court holds a heated debate over whether Chen Xia should be arrested and punished or whether doing so would provoke the powerful Federation.
• Some ministers argue that Chen Xia violated Zhao law by killing an official and that allowing him to escape would damage the kingdom’s authority. Others insist Governor Wu deserved death for colluding with foreign races and warn that antagonizing the Federation would be strategically foolish.
• Changsha King Wu Bu strongly demands that Chen Xia be wanted throughout the kingdom and that Federation members and foreign infiltrators be investigated and executed.
• Crown Prince Wu Tong opposes this approach. He argues that the Federation is too powerful to provoke and that the southern foreign races pose the greater danger. He believes Governor Wu brought about his own death and that the kingdom should remain neutral while its enemies weaken one another.
• The emperor ultimately postpones the matter without reaching a decision.
• After another half month of cultivation, Chen Xia swallows the thirteenth and final Lifespan-Eroding Pill. Its energy causes unbearable pain as he forcibly guides it through his meridians using his master’s cultivation method, suggesting that his breakthrough is entering its decisive stage.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia: Demonstrates extraordinary endurance and determination. He willingly subjects himself to dangerous pills and immense pain in pursuit of the Grandmaster realm, remaining unaware that his actions have created a political crisis in Zhao.
• Changsha King Wu Bu: Revealed as ambitious and politically aggressive. Because Governor Wu was his subordinate, he views Chen Xia’s survival as a threat to his authority and future struggle for the throne.
• Crown Prince Wu Tong: Appears cautious, pragmatic, and politically calculating. He prioritizes national stability and avoiding war with the Federation, while also using the dispute to undermine the Changsha King.
• The Zhao Emperor: Remains cautious and avoids committing to either faction, ending the debate by postponing the issue.
• Governor Wu: Though already dead, his betrayal and connection to the Changsha King continue to influence the court’s political conflict.

Significant Themes

• Personal cultivation versus political consequences: Chen Xia focuses solely on strengthening himself, while his actions generate major consequences beyond his awareness.
• Political power and prestige: The debate is not only about justice but also about whether the Changsha King can protect his followers and maintain authority.
• Pragmatism versus pride: The Crown Prince favors restraint and strategic patience, whereas the Changsha King emphasizes national dignity, punishment, and retaliation.
• Law versus moral justice: Officials disagree over whether Chen Xia is a criminal for killing an official or a justified executioner who eliminated a traitor.
• Endurance and transformation: Chen Xia’s painful use of the Lifespan-Eroding Pills represents the physical and psychological cost of pursuing a higher realm.

Important Character Interactions

• Zhao officials split into opposing camps over Chen Xia’s fate.
• Changsha King Wu Bu openly challenges the Crown Prince’s cautious position and demands Chen Xia’s execution.
• Crown Prince Wu Tong counters that the Changsha King should personally deal with Chen Xia if he insists on punishment, exposing the practical risks behind his rhetoric.
• Their argument reflects a deeper rivalry: the Crown Prince wants the Changsha King weakened, while Wu Bu must punish Chen Xia to preserve his reputation and political influence.
• Chen Xia has no direct interaction with the court during the chapter, remaining isolated in seclusion while unknowingly becoming the center of a national power struggle.

Chapter Summary: “Breakthrough to Grandmaster! Third Update”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia uses the Lifespan-Eroding Pill, but because of his special panel, its harmful lifespan-draining effect is reversed. Instead of weakening him, the pill strengthens his vitality while rapidly stimulating his potential.
• Combining the pill’s medicinal power, his inner force, and Star Essence energy, Chen Xia forcefully opens his Ren Meridian. The process is agonizing and triggers hallucinations of his impoverished past, failed cultivation, dangerous work, and opponents he has killed.
• Using the Eternal Night Blood Scripture to maintain clarity, Chen Xia refuses to give up. He finally breaks through the Ren Meridian’s obstruction, after which the Du Meridian opens with much greater ease.
• His breakthrough creates a massive energy vortex, drawing Star Essence and Primal Qi from more than fifty li away. Dark clouds gather, thunder rolls, and the surrounding beasts instinctively flee or bow in fear.
• Chen Xia’s body undergoes a complete transformation. His inner force changes from gas into liquid fire-infused energy, while the Earthcore Flame seed expands and becomes far more powerful.
• He successfully enters the Grandmaster Realm. His senses, physical strength, movement, and control over heaven-and-earth energy all improve dramatically.
• Chen Xia estimates that his lifespan has increased to roughly 360 years: about 300 years from reaching the Grandmaster Realm, plus approximately 60 years gained from thirteen Lifespan-Eroding Pills.
• After emerging from the cave, he tests his new abilities. He flies, moves across dozens of zhang with each step, controls a powerful Grandmaster aura domain, destroys large areas of forest, and handles his broken sword with newfound mastery.
• Although immensely stronger, Chen Xia reminds himself not to become arrogant because the Federation and Northern Mang world contain countless ancient and powerful figures.
• Realizing that over a month has passed, he worries about the Giant Deer Star Realm and hurries back to its base.

Character Development

• Chen Xia displays extraordinary perseverance during the breakthrough, enduring severe pain and psychological illusions without surrendering.
• His success confirms that his panel and unusual constitution allow him to exploit the Lifespan-Eroding Pill in a way ordinary cultivators cannot.
• He evolves from a powerful Golden Body cultivator into a true Grandmaster, representing a transformation in both strength and life level.
• Despite gaining tremendous power and social status, Chen Xia remains cautious and recognizes that he is still insignificant compared with the ancient experts of the wider world.
• His concern for the Giant Deer Star Realm shows his sense of responsibility; he worries that his long absence may have caused problems.

Significant Themes

• Transformation and rebirth: The breakthrough is portrayed as a complete remaking of Chen Xia’s body, energy, senses, and lifespan.
• Perseverance against suffering: Chen Xia’s advancement depends on enduring physical agony, mental illusions, and the possibility of lifelong failure.
• Power and responsibility: Becoming a Grandmaster grants him the power to influence regions and establish a sect, but it also creates obligations toward the people and realms connected to him.
• Humility amid strength: The chapter emphasizes that even extraordinary talent cannot justify complacency in a world filled with hidden experts and ancient monsters.
• Life extension and cultivation: Chen Xia’s increased lifespan highlights the close relationship between martial advancement, vitality, and the pursuit of transcendence.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia has no direct conversation with other human characters in this chapter.
• His most notable interactions are with the natural world:
  • The surrounding beasts instinctively fear and revere his Grandmaster presence.
  • Birds, spirit foxes, and demonic beasts observe him cautiously or bow before him.
  • His newly acquired aura and control of heaven-and-earth energy cause trees to collapse, rivers to halt, and the landscape to react to his movements.
• His indirect relationship with the Giant Deer Star Realm becomes important at the end, as he remembers his responsibilities there and rushes back after his extended absence.

Chapter Summary: “Spreading Rumors”

Key Plot Points and Events

• After Chen Xia leaves, two of the Crown Prince’s subordinates discover evidence that he has broken through to the Grandmaster Realm. They immediately report the news.
• The Crown Prince decides to exploit the situation by spreading rumors that the Changsha King is hunting Chen Xia. He hopes this will provoke a confrontation between them, ideally ending with Chen Xia killing the Changsha King and securing the Crown Prince’s position.
• The Crown Prince also orders his people to offer Chen Xia ten thousand Star Essence Stones and invite him to form an alliance.
• Chen Xia travels through the alien-occupied southern region of Northern Mang, observing Winged Race camps, Federation activity, and the relatively peaceful Giant Deer Star Realm before returning to the Federation.
• Because Chen Xia was gone for a month instead of the promised two days, Deputy Commander Zhou and the Haixing War Zone leadership fear that he has been killed or captured. They debate whether to investigate or report his disappearance.
• Chen Xia unexpectedly returns during their meeting, revealing that the rumors about him being pursued by two Grandmasters were true—but that he survived and killed one of them.
• He confirms that he has broken through from the Golden Body Realm to the Grandmaster Realm. The revelation shocks everyone, especially because he is still under thirty.
• Deputy Commander Zhou recognizes that Chen Xia’s aura is exceptionally powerful, suggesting that his strength and reserves surpass those of ordinary Grandmasters.
• Chen Xia resumes command of the Haixing War Zone, gives instructions regarding the alien races, reports to the military authorities, and receives official approval after explaining his breakthrough.
• News of his advancement spreads rapidly throughout Xia Nation, shocking powerful factions and altering the political balance.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia: Makes a major leap in power, becoming a Grandmaster after surviving pursuit by two Grandmasters. His return establishes him as an exceptionally gifted and formidable young martial artist. His authority also increases, as Deputy Commander Zhou willingly yields the main seat to him.
• The Crown Prince: Reveals himself to be politically calculating and opportunistic. He intends to use Chen Xia as a weapon against the Changsha King while simultaneously trying to recruit Chen Xia as an ally.
• Deputy Commander Zhou: Initially doubts whether Chen Xia survived, but after sensing his new strength, develops genuine awe and respect for him.
• Haixing War Zone officials: Their concern about Chen Xia’s disappearance turns into amazement and admiration once they learn of his breakthrough.
• Changsha King: Though absent from the chapter, he becomes central to the Crown Prince’s plan, as the Crown Prince attempts to turn Chen Xia against him.

Significant Themes

• Power and political maneuvering: The Crown Prince uses rumors and strategic alliances to weaken a rival and protect his own position.
• Transformation through adversity: Chen Xia’s pursuit by Grandmasters becomes the catalyst for his breakthrough, turning danger into opportunity.
• Recognition and authority: Chen Xia’s new realm changes how others perceive and treat him, transforming him from a promising commander into a figure worthy of awe.
• Rumors as weapons: Information about Chen Xia’s strength and the Changsha King’s intentions is deliberately manipulated to provoke conflict and reshape political relationships.
• Youth and extraordinary potential: Chen Xia’s status as a Grandmaster under thirty emphasizes his unprecedented talent and suggests that he may become a major force in the Federation and beyond.

Character Interactions

• The Crown Prince communicates with his subordinates, ordering them to spread rumors and invite Chen Xia into an alliance.
• Chen Xia’s return interrupts the Haixing War Zone’s debate over whether he is dead or missing.
• Deputy Commander Zhou questions Chen Xia, verifies his Grandmaster status, and then congratulates him with newfound respect.
• The war zone officials celebrate Chen Xia’s achievement and acknowledge his elevated status.
• Chen Xia reasserts his command by taking the main seat and issuing instructions to the war zone leadership.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia's breakthrough to Grandmaster is confirmed.
• Ouyang Shuo, learning of this, returns to the Federation Capital to arrange a celebratory banquet for Chen Xia.
• The banquet is held at Chen Xia's villa, attracting numerous influential figures from Xia Nation, including Ma Zhicheng from the Capital Martial Arts General Bureau.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia: Becomes more humble and reserved despite his new status, understanding the political implications of his breakthrough.
• Ouyang Shuo: Shows his influence and connections by organizing a grand banquet, aiming to increase his prestige and Chen Xia's network.

Significant Themes

• Status and Prestige: Chen Xia's breakthrough to Grandmaster elevates his status, attracting attention and gifts from influential figures.
• Political Maneuvering: Ouyang Shuo uses the banquet to increase his influence and Chen Xia's connections, showing the political nature of their actions.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia and Ouyang Shuo: Master and disciple discuss the banquet and its implications, showing a close relationship and mutual respect.
• Chen Xia and Ma Zhicheng: They exchange pleasantries, with Ma Zhicheng attempting to win Chen Xia over to his faction, showing the political undercurrents of the celebration.

Summary of “Master’s Gift, Third Update”

Key plot points and events

• Chen Xia celebrates his breakthrough to the Grandmaster realm with a large banquet at his villa.
• Wang Yue, Ouyang Shuo’s first grandmaster disciple, arrives from the Capital with members of her family to congratulate him. Her visit confirms that Chen Xia’s talent is comparable to hers.
• Several of Ouyang Shuo’s disciples attend, including Ding Jie and Liu Meng. Ding Jie, once Chen Xia’s rival, now tries to preserve a good relationship with him, while Liu Meng enthusiastically praises Chen Xia and even predicts that he may one day become a Martial Saint.
• Chen Xia’s relatives and the Jiang Family help receive the guests. Jiang Changhai is especially delighted by the respect and attention now directed toward his future son-in-law.
• Powerful families from Outer Domain Star City, including the Jun and Gao Families, arrive with valuable gifts. Gao Jin’s family presents especially precious offerings, including eight thousand Star Essence Stones.
• Dragon Lord Hong Zhendong arrives with Ouyang Shuo, greatly elevating the importance of the banquet. Hong gives Chen Xia a thousand-year high-grade snow ginseng and praises his solid foundation and pure inner strength.
• Hong urges Chen Xia to continue progressing toward the Martial Venerable and Martial Saint realms, explaining that Martial Saints are crucial to the Federation’s survival against alien races.
• Ouyang Shuo gives Chen Xia a storage ring containing 100,000 Star Essence Stones—an extraordinarily generous gift worth roughly thirty billion in currency. Chen Xia is thrilled by the gift and realizes how immense the wealth and status of his master are.

Character developments

• Chen Xia gains enormous prestige after becoming a Grandmaster. He demonstrates humility publicly, rejecting Liu Meng’s exaggerated prediction, though privately he has always aimed for the highest levels of martial achievement.
• Wang Yue recognizes Chen Xia as a fellow exceptional talent and is genuinely surprised by how quickly he advanced.
• Ding Jie shifts from hostility to cautious respect, understanding that Chen Xia is now too powerful and influential to antagonize.
• Liu Meng becomes openly flattering and ingratiating toward Chen Xia, contrasting with her previous role in provoking Ding Jie against him.
• Jiang Changhai takes pride in Chen Xia’s success because it raises the Jiang Family’s standing and earns him respect from powerful figures.
• Hong Zhendong appears supportive and encouraging, though his reflections reveal his own frustration and sense of distance regarding the Martial Saint realm.
• Ouyang Shuo displays his deep pride in Chen Xia and his immense wealth through an exceptionally valuable congratulatory gift.

Significant themes

• Recognition and rising status: Chen Xia’s breakthrough transforms how former rivals, elite families, and national powerhouses treat him.
• Humility versus ambition: Chen Xia outwardly remains modest while privately maintaining the ambition to reach the pinnacle of martial arts.
• The importance of connections: His relationship with Ouyang Shuo and indirect ties to the Jiang and Jun Families bring powerful guests and opportunities.
• The difficulty of ultimate power: The gap between Grandmaster, Martial Venerable, and Martial Saint is emphasized, particularly through Hong Zhendong’s own struggles.
• Responsibility and national survival: Martial advancement is framed not merely as personal glory but as a means of defending the Federation against alien threats.
• Wealth and influence: The gifts, especially Ouyang Shuo’s Star Essence Stones, demonstrate the immense resources controlled by high-level martial artists.

Character interactions

• Chen Xia and Wang Yue: She congratulates him warmly and acknowledges his remarkable talent.
• Chen Xia and Ding Jie: Ding Jie adopts a respectful, conciliatory attitude after their earlier conflict.
• Chen Xia and Liu Meng: Liu praises him extravagantly, while Chen Xia responds with practiced humility.
• Chen Xia and Jiang Changhai: They jointly welcome guests, with Jiang proudly benefiting from Chen Xia’s elevated status.
• Chen Xia and the Jun/Gao Families: Their attendance and lavish gifts demonstrate the powerful families’ desire to maintain or establish ties with him.
• Chen Xia and Hong Zhendong: Hong treats him warmly, gives him the snow ginseng, evaluates his cultivation, and offers serious advice about future advancement.
• Chen Xia and Ouyang Shuo: Ouyang publicly supports his disciple and gives him an astonishingly valuable gift, reinforcing their close master-disciple relationship.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia hosts a banquet after his Grandmaster breakthrough, attracting numerous influential figures and gifts.
• Ouyang Shuo gives Chen Xia the Vermilion Bird World-Burning Art, a saint-tier cultivation art, and explains its key points.
• Chen Xia calculates the total value of gifts received, around 180,000 Star Essence Stones or 54 billion in money.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia gains confidence and motivation to strive for higher martial arts pinnacles.
• Ouyang Shuo demonstrates his care and generosity towards Chen Xia by giving him a saint-tier art.
• Jiang Xinglan shows understanding and consideration by declining pills from Chen Xia.

Significant Themes

• The illusory nature of power and status, and the importance of continuous advancement in martial arts.
• The value of connections and networking, as seen in the generous gifts given to Chen Xia.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia interacts with various influential figures, accepting their gifts and congratulations.
• Ouyang Shuo guides Chen Xia in cultivating the Vermilion Bird World-Burning Art.
• Chen Xia shares resources with his family and declines Jiang Xinglan's request for pills, demonstrating his thoughtfulness.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia reverses the Dragon-Phoenix Creation Art to benefit both him and Jiang Xinglan.
• They move into a new Large Flat in Handong City for privacy.
• Chen Xia and Jiang Xinglan cultivate together, leading to significant progress for both.
• Chen Xia leaves for the Haixing battlefield to earn merit.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia: Shows thoughtfulness and generosity by buying Jiang Xinglan a house and reversing the dual cultivation technique for her benefit.
• Jiang Xinglan: Becomes more comfortable with Chen Xia, accepts his gifts, and makes significant cultivation progress.

Significant Themes

• Dual cultivation: Chen Xia uses his panel to reverse the technique, allowing both parties to benefit without side effects.
• Relationship growth: Chen Xia and Jiang Xinglan's relationship deepens as they live together and cultivate.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia and Jiang Xinglan: Their relationship becomes more intimate as they live together and cultivate, leading to mutual growth and happiness.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Different Race attacks again the day after Chen Xia's arrival.
• Chen Xia, now a Grandmaster, leads an army of 100,000 against the Different Race, efficiently slaughtering their forces.
• A veteran Grandmaster of the Winged Race, Shi Wei, is dispatched to counter Chen Xia.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia: He has become a Grandmaster and is now more powerful, with a larger aura domain and stronger fire-attribute power. He is efficiently killing the Different Race enemies, gaining merit points and negative energy.
• Shi Wei: A veteran Grandmaster of the Winged Race, he is sent to suppress Chen Xia. He is confident in his strength and believes he can easily defeat Chen Xia.

Significant Themes

• Power and Strength: Chen Xia's newfound Grandmaster powers allow him to dominate the battlefield, highlighting the importance of strength in this world.
• Fear and Respect: The Different Race members fear and respect Chen Xia's power, while Shi Wei underestimates Chen Xia's capabilities.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia vs. Different Race: Chen Xia efficiently slaughters the Different Race, causing fear and awe among their ranks.
• Shi Wei vs. Chen Xia: Shi Wei is sent to counter Chen Xia, believing he can easily defeat the newly promoted Grandmaster.
• Sa Xun vs. Shi Wei: Sa Xun respects and relies on Shi Wei's strength, hoping the veteran Grandmaster can suppress Chen Xia.

Chapter Summary: Breaking Through the Giant Deer Star Realm

Key Plot Points and Events

• Winged Race grandmaster Shi Wei suddenly enters the battlefield and attacks Chen Xia in retaliation for the deaths of Winged Race warriors.
• Shi Wei uses his powerful Heaven-Tilting Blade, initially overwhelming Chen Xia and damaging his violet-scale armor.
• Chen Xia withstands several fierce attacks, using evasive movement, feints, and sword techniques to counter Shi Wei’s aggression.
• Chen Xia’s seven rapid sword thrusts are revealed to be a distraction. He secretly deploys a broken sword as a concealed flying weapon.
• By combining the broken sword with a brief spiritual-energy attack, Chen Xia momentarily disrupts Shi Wei’s consciousness.
• The broken sword pierces through Shi Wei’s wings, astral defenses, and body. Chen Xia then decapitates him before the grandmaster can retaliate.
• Shi Wei’s death leaves both armies stunned. The Human Race celebrates, while the Winged Race loses all morale and collapses into a disorderly retreat.
• Chen Xia leads the Federation army in a massive pursuit, destroying camps, killing Winged Race soldiers and generals, and advancing deep into enemy territory.
• He receives 5,700 Negative Energy points and 30,000 merit points, with additional rewards promised after a military review for killing an alien grandmaster.
• One hour later, the Federation army reaches the alien base surrounding the Giant Deer Star Realm’s teleportation array, positioning them to potentially drive the aliens completely from the realm.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia reveals that his apparent exhaustion and limited strength were partly deceptive. He had concealed the true power of both himself and his broken sword, allowing him to surprise and kill Shi Wei.
• Chen Xia demonstrates increasing tactical sophistication, combining direct combat, feints, hidden weapons, spiritual attacks, and precise timing.
• His victory transforms him from a battlefield commander into a major symbol of hope for the Federation army.
• Shi Wei, initially confident and contemptuous, gradually realizes that Chen Xia is far stronger than expected. His overconfidence leads him to underestimate the broken sword and die in a counterattack.
• Deputy Commander Zhou and the Federation soldiers recover from their shock and enthusiastically follow Chen Xia’s lead once Shi Wei is killed.

Significant Themes

• Hidden strength and deception: Chen Xia wins by concealing his true capabilities and misleading Shi Wei about his actual killing method.
• The importance of morale: The death of a single grandmaster causes the Winged Race army to collapse, while the Human Race army’s confidence surges.
• Strategic leadership: Chen Xia’s victory becomes a turning point that allows the Federation forces to advance far beyond their usual limits.
• The cost of war and the value of major victories: Killing an alien grandmaster is portrayed as both a tremendous military achievement and a highly rewarded contribution to the Federation.
• Momentum in battle: Once the Winged Race begins retreating, fear spreads rapidly, turning an organized army into a defenseless fleeing mass.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia and Shi Wei engage in a tense, escalating duel marked by direct clashes, evasions, feints, and hidden attacks.
• Shi Wei treats Chen Xia with disdain and assumes his defenses can withstand the broken sword, while Chen Xia uses that arrogance against him.
• The Federation soldiers initially watch in disbelief but quickly rally behind Chen Xia after witnessing Shi Wei’s death.
• Chen Xia’s leadership inspires Deputy Commander Zhou and the entire Human Race army to pursue the fleeing Winged Race forces.
• The chapter ends with Chen Xia and his army facing the enemy’s main base and teleportation array, setting up the next stage of the campaign.