Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia infiltrates Edel's base, a secluded house with a courtyard wall and a basement where a ritual to summon a Blood God is being prepared.
• He captures and interrogates one of Edel's guards, learning about the base's inhabitants, the ritual's purpose, and the presence of Night God Sect members using bat techniques.
• Chen Xia decides to wait for backup before acting, as the combined strength of seven illusionists presents too high a risk.
• Jiang Xinglan, after receiving Chen Xia's message, equips herself and sets off in a flying vehicle, accompanied by another vehicle from the South City Branch Office.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia demonstrates his stealth and combat skills, easily subduing the guard and gathering information.
• Jiang Xinglan shows her leadership and decisiveness, immediately mobilizing forces and setting out herself.

Significant Themes

• The danger posed by the Night God Sect's evil practices and their attempt to summon a powerful entity.
• The importance of teamwork and backup in facing overwhelming odds.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia and the captured guard: Chen Xia uses his strength and intimidation to extract information from the guard.
• Jiang Xinglan and Chen Xia: Jiang Xinglan receives Chen Xia's message and immediately sets out to support him.
• Jiang Xinglan and the South City Branch Office: Jiang Xinglan mobilizes the office to join her in the operation.

Plot Points and Events

• Jiang Xinglan and Lin Qinghan, using Shadow Mode, land near their target in South City.
• They meet Chen Xia, who has been investigating alone, and decide to proceed together.
• They find a basement filled with cult activity, including a sacrificed woman and a notebook detailing failed Blood God summoning experiments.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia shows initiative and courage in investigating alone.
• Jiang Xinglan demonstrates leadership and decisiveness.
• Lin Qinghan exhibits caution and concern for Chen Xia's safety.

Significant Themes

• The dark side of cult activities and their disregard for human life.
• The importance of teamwork and coordination in investigations.

Character Interactions

• Jiang Xinglan and Lin Qinghan work well together, showing a level of familiarity from their university days.
• Chen Xia shows respect and deference to his superiors, addressing Lin Qinghan as "Sister Lin."
• There's a hint of protectiveness from Lin Qinghan towards Chen Xia, despite her initial reluctance to let him join them.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia, Jiang Xinglan, and Lin Qinghan discover a basement filled with evidence of human sacrifices and rituals conducted by Edel and the Gathering Justice Mercenary Group.
• They encounter Edel and his followers attempting to summon the Blood God using young girls as sacrifices.
• The trio disrupts the ritual, leading to a confrontation. Jiang Xinglan fights off the mercenaries, while Chen Xia and Lin Qinghan face off against Edel and the Night God Sect members.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia: Shows determination and bravery in facing the horrors of the basement. His mental strength is tested when the Night God Sect members use the Blood Soul Bewitching Heart technique on him.
• Jiang Xinglan: Demonstrates exceptional combat skills and courage, taking on multiple opponents at once. She shows concern for Chen Xia's safety.
• Lin Qinghan: Uses her invisibility technique and supports Chen Xia when he is targeted by the Night God Sect members.
• Edel: Revealed to be the mastermind behind the human sacrifices, seeking to summon the Blood God. He remains calm and composed even when his plans are disrupted.

Significant Themes

• The dark side of human nature, as seen through the human sacrifices and Edel's actions.
• The power of determination and mental strength in the face of adversity, as shown by Chen Xia.
• The consequences of one's actions, as seen through the fate of the victims and the mercenaries.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia, Jiang Xinglan, and Lin Qinghan work together to investigate and disrupt the ritual, showcasing their teamwork and concern for one another's safety.
• Edel and the Night God Sect members collaborate to summon the Blood God, highlighting their shared evil intent.
• The mercenaries follow Edel's orders, demonstrating their loyalty and fear of him.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia is captured and tied to a cross by the Night God Sect.
• The Night God Sect attempts to control Chen Xia using mental attacks, but he resists due to his superior cultivation in the Eternal Night Blood Scripture.
• The Night God Sect threatens to kill the captured women if Chen Xia and the others don't comply.
• Jiang Xinglan and Lin Qinghan fight against the Night God Sect disciples, while Chen Xia helps evacuate the captive women.
• Edel, the leader of the Night God Sect, tries to summon the Blood God for eternal life, using a mirror as a portal.
• Edel uses various Spirit Techniques and illusions to hinder Jiang Xinglan, Lin Qinghan, and Chen Xia, but they manage to resist.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia demonstrates strong mental willpower, resisting the Night God Sect's mental attacks and waking up quickly from the illusion.
• Jiang Xinglan shows exceptional combat skills and strength, easily defeating the Night God Sect disciples.
• Lin Qinghan reveals her proficiency in Sorcerer's Staff techniques, using it to dispel illusions and protect the group.
• Edel displays fanatical obsession with eternal life, using the Night God Sect's secret techniques to stall for time and summon the Blood God.

Significant Themes

• The temptation of eternal life and the lengths people will go to achieve it.
• The struggle between good and evil, with the Night God Sect representing the latter.
• The power of mental will and resistance against mind control and illusions.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia, Jiang Xinglan, and Lin Qinghan work together to fight against the Night God Sect, showcasing their complementary skills and teamwork.
• Edel attempts to manipulate and control the trio, using his illusions and the promise of eternal life to try and sway them to his side.
• The captured women rely on Chen Xia and the others for rescue, highlighting their vulnerability and the heroes' protective roles.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Edel, driven mad by his desire for immortality, attempts to summon the Blood God using a mirror.
• Jiang Xinglan, Lin Qinghan, and Chen Xia try to stop him, but Edel's Illusion Technique and the Blood God's power make it challenging.
• Lin Qinghan uses Scorching Sun Yang Essence to suppress Edel, while Jiang Xinglan attacks with her full combat strength.
• Chen Xia discovers he can pierce the blood-energy shield and cracks the mirror using his Seven Injuries Fist.
• Edel, desperate to stop Chen Xia, transforms into a blood wave and attacks, but Jiang Xinglan and Lin Qinghan intervene.
• Despite their efforts, the Blood God begins to emerge from the mirror, and its influence causes a blood-red hand to appear.

Character Developments

• Edel's obsession with immortality leads him to madness and desperation, willing to sacrifice others for his goal.
• Jiang Xinglan demonstrates her full combat strength but struggles to defeat Edel due to his recovery ability.
• Lin Qinghan uses her sorcerer methods to support the group but finds it difficult to overcome Edel's power.
• Chen Xia discovers the true power of his Seven Injuries Fist, proving to be a crucial factor in damaging the mirror.

Significant Themes

• Obsession and its consequences (Edel's pursuit of immortality)
• The struggle against overwhelming power (the Blood God and Edel's abilities)
• The importance of teamwork and unity (Jiang Xinglan, Lin Qinghan, and Chen Xia working together)

Character Interactions

• Edel manipulates and attacks the group, driven by his desire to summon the Blood God.
• Jiang Xinglan and Lin Qinghan work together to hold off Edel while Chen Xia damages the mirror.
• Chen Xia's actions inadvertently reveal the power of his Seven Injuries Fist, catching the attention of Jiang Xinglan and Lin Qinghan.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jiang Xinglan uses a 3D projection from her tech watch to coordinate with headquarters and launch a powerful laser attack, destroying the Blood God before it fully emerges.
• Edel, the surviving Night God Sect member, escapes and flees the scene.
• Chen Xia finds the secret technique books among the Night God Sect members' belongings.
• Jiang Xinglan and her team apprehend Edel, and the scene is secured. Several officials and members of the Gathering Justice Mercenary Group are injured.
• Jiang Xinglan instructs Chen Xia to come to her office in two days.

Character Developments

• Jiang Xinglan demonstrates her leadership, strategic thinking, and calmness under pressure.
• Chen Xia shows bravery and initiative in facing the Blood God and completes his mission by obtaining the secret technique books.
• Edel reveals his desperation and malice after his plans fail.

Significant Themes

• The power of technology and strategy in overcoming supernatural threats.
• The consequences of failure and desperation, as seen through Edel's actions.
• The importance of leadership and coordination in crisis situations.

Character Interactions

• Jiang Xinglan works closely with her team and headquarters to handle the crisis.
• Chen Xia and Jiang Xinglan have a brief interaction where she praises his efforts and schedules a meeting for further discussion.
• Edel interacts with Jiang Xinglan and her team only to express his malice and attempt to escape.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia and Jiang Xinglan apprehend Edel, and the Night God Sect's secret room is discovered.
• Chen Xia obtains the 'Eternal Night Blood Scripture' and two secret techniques: 'Blood Shadow Bat' and 'Blood Soul Bewitching Heart'.
• Chen Xia returns home and begins to learn the 'Blood Shadow Bat' technique.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia realizes his own strength is lacking and becomes eager to study and improve.
• Xiao Qiang demonstrates loyalty and dedication to his duties, contributing significantly to the case without expecting recognition.

Significant Themes

• The power of spiritual techniques and their practicality in combat.
• The importance of self-improvement and continuous learning.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia and Jiang Xinglan work together to apprehend Edel.
• Chen Xia appreciates Xiao Qiang's contributions but doesn't reveal the full extent of the case to him.
• Chen Xia practices his new techniques in solitude, enjoying the newfound abilities.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia successfully condenses two bats using his dark secret technique, which allows him to see farther and wider.
• He receives a bonus of 300,000 for his role in the Tongxin Village incident.
• Chen Xia is promoted to Deputy Headquarters of South City, in charge of two teams.
• Jiang Xinglan advises Chen Xia to focus on his martial path development, aiming to reach Grade 3 within two years.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia demonstrates improved control over his dark secret technique, condensing two bats.
• He shows maturity and wisdom in accepting his promotion and understanding the implications of his new position.
• Jiang Xinglan exhibits her confidence in Chen Xia's abilities and potential, guiding him towards his future development.

Significant Themes

• Power and Responsibility: Chen Xia's new position comes with greater power and influence, but also increased responsibility.
• Personal Growth: Chen Xia's focus on his martial path development reflects his commitment to self-improvement and progression.
• Mentorship: Jiang Xinglan's guidance and support highlight her role as a mentor, helping Chen Xia navigate his career and personal growth.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia interacts with Jiang Xinglan, discussing his promotion and future plans. Their conversation reveals their mutual respect and trust.
• Chen Xia's interaction with his mother is brief but shows their warm and caring relationship.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jiang Xinglan trusts Chen Xia despite his knowledge of evil techniques.
• Jiang Xinglan rewards Chen Xia with a mid-grade Chasing Moon Knife Technique.
• Chen Xia is promoted to Deputy Commander, overseeing Mengtang and Baiyu Streets.
• Jiang Xinglan warns Chen Xia about the influential forces in Mengtang and Baiyu Streets, particularly the Wild Wolf mercenary group backed by the Fang family.
• Chen Xia learns about the power dynamics in Yijiang City and the background of the Fang family.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia: Shows understanding and acceptance of Jiang Xinglan's trust, expresses gratitude for his promotion, and demonstrates a desire to do well in his new role.
• Jiang Xinglan: Reveals her support for Chen Xia, provides him with a valuable cultivation technique, and offers guidance on managing his new position.

Significant Themes

• Trust and loyalty: Jiang Xinglan's trust in Chen Xia despite knowing about his knowledge of evil techniques, and Chen Xia's loyalty to Jiang Xinglan and the Patrol Inspection Office.
• Power dynamics: The influence of the Jiang and Fang families in Yijiang City, and the complex relationships between different mercenary groups and families.
• Cultivation and growth: Chen Xia's rapid progress in his cultivation and the potential for further growth, as well as the benefits of being associated with the Jiang family.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia and Jiang Xinglan: A professional and respectful relationship, with Jiang Xinglan acting as a mentor and guide to Chen Xia.
• Jiang Xinglan and Lin Qinghan: A close working relationship, with Lin Qinghan providing input on Chen Xia's character and potential future.
• Chen Xia and the Fang family: A potential future conflict, as Chen Xia's new position may put him at odds with the influential Fang family.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia is promoted to Headquarters Deputy Captain, a higher rank than expected.
• He meets Dong Wen, a Patrol Squad Leader, who expresses admiration for Chen Xia's actions against the Blood God.
• Chen Xia sees news reports of rescued girls and their grateful families, but no mention of the Blood God or his involvement.
• He returns to the South City Branch Office, where his superiors congratulate him and present his appointment letter and new equipment.
• Chen Xia is assigned to take over a branch point on Mengtang Street, with Deputy Chief Wei personally handing over duties.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia remains humble despite his rapid promotions, showing maturity and self-awareness.
• Dong Wen shows interest in befriending Chen Xia, recognizing his potential.
• Deputy Chief Wei's retirement seems voluntary, hinting at an unspoken reason.

Significant Themes

• Recognition and Friendship: Dong Wen seeks to befriend Chen Xia, recognizing his talent and potential.
• Humility in Success: Chen Xia remains grounded despite his promotions.
• Unspoken Truths: Deputy Chief Wei's retirement hints at a hidden reason, suggesting there are truths yet to be revealed.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia interacts positively with Dong Wen, accepting his invitation for a drink.
• He maintains a respectful and humble demeanor with his superiors at the South City Branch Office.
• Chen Xia's upcoming interaction with Deputy Chief Wei may reveal more about the latter's motivations for retirement.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia is promoted to Deputy Chief and given a new uniform, equipment, and a firearm.
• He is assigned to oversee Mengtang Street and White Feather Street, with a branch office of several hundred personnel.
• Chen Xia meets Deputy Chief Wei, who is stepping down due to injuries and age.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia: Becomes more authoritative and imposing in his new role, gains a firearm, and takes charge of a larger area.
• Deputy Chief Wei: Steps down due to injuries and age, appears enthusiastic and pleased about Chen Xia's appointment.

Significant Themes

• Promotion and advancement in career and rank.
• The responsibilities and power that come with a higher position.
• The handover of duties and the transition of power.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia and Deputy Chief Wei: They meet for the first time, with Wei handing over his duties to Chen Xia. Wei seems genuine in his enthusiasm and support for Chen Xia's appointment.
• Chen Xia and his subordinates: Chen Xia delivers a speech to his new subordinates, emphasizing the importance of their roles and his expectations for them.
• Chen Xia and Zhang Feng: Zhang Feng is promoted to Deputy Captain and becomes Chen Xia's subordinate, serving as his driver.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Deputy Chief Wei reveals that the Wild Wolf Mercenary Group, led by Fang Haolong, is selling a dangerous drug (Purple Illusion Agent) and pressured him to turn a blind eye.
• Chen Xia agrees to meet Fang Haolong but declines an invitation to a dinner gathering.
• Fang Haolong visits Chen Xia, offering a bribe and attempting to recruit him to cooperate in their drug business.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia demonstrates his integrity and unwillingness to compromise his principles, even when faced with potential threats from the Fang Family.
• Deputy Chief Wei shows his cowardice and willingness to pass on problems to others to avoid trouble.
• Fang Haolong displays his arrogance and lack of respect for the law, expecting others to comply with his demands.

Significant Themes

• Integrity vs. Corruption: Chen Xia's refusal to accept bribes and cooperate in illegal activities highlights his commitment to upholding the law and maintaining his integrity.
• Power Dynamics: The interactions between Chen Xia, Deputy Chief Wei, and Fang Haolong illustrate the power struggles and influence of different factions in Yijiang City.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia and Deputy Chief Wei: Chen Xia takes over the position from Deputy Chief Wei, who is relieved to pass on the problem with the Wild Wolf Mercenary Group.
• Chen Xia and Fang Haolong: Chen Xia refuses Fang Haolong's offer to cooperate in their drug business, showing his unwillingness to compromise his principles.
• Fang Haolong and Fang Zixuan: Fang Haolong reports the situation to Fang Zixuan, who decides to leave Chen Xia alone for now due to his connection with the Jiang Family.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia takes charge of the branch office and completes the handover with Deputy Chief Wei.
• Deputy Chief Wei warns Chen Xia about potential trouble from the Fang Family and the Wild Wolf Mercenary Group.
• Chen Xia decides to improve his strength, hold down his territory, and deal with any issues that arise.
• Chen Xia studies and practices the Chasing Moon Knife Technique, a mid-grade cultivation technique given to him by Jiang Xinglan.
• Chen Xia practices shooting at the branch academy's firearms training room, improving his accuracy.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia shows confidence and determination in handling his new responsibilities.
• Chen Xia's mother, Wang Xin, is proud and supportive of her son's promotion.
• Chen Xia demonstrates quick learning and improvement in both knife technique and shooting.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics between the government and influential families like the Fangs.
• Chen Xia's determination to protect people under his jurisdiction and improve his strength.
• The importance of continuous learning and practice in Chen Xia's cultivation journey.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia interacts with Deputy Chief Wei, who warns him about potential issues and feels both pleased and ashamed about passing on the responsibilities.
• Chen Xia has a heartwarming meal with his mother, Wang Xin, who is proud of his promotion and supports him.
• Chen Xia practices his knife technique and shooting skills alone, showing his dedication to self-improvement.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia updates his status at the Martial Warrior Alliance to Grade 2.
• He receives no bonus for reaching Grade 2 but anticipates the reward for reaching Grade 3.
• Chen Xia spends his remaining money on cultivation pills and quietly improves his skills.
• He attends drinking banquets hosted by local businessmen and Mercenary Group leaders, accepting gifts and courtesies.
• Chen Xia visits a black market in a war-ravaged wasteland to buy cultivation resources.
• After a month of cultivation, Chen Xia's strength increases significantly, reaching 3111 kg.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia demonstrates rapid progress, advancing from Grade 1 to Grade 2 quickly, and from Stage 1 to Stage 5 in his cultivation within a month.
• He becomes more financially stable, accumulating gifts and courtesies from local figures.
• Chen Xia exhibits strategic thinking by visiting the black market to avoid detection of his cultivation progress and expenditures.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics and corruption in the Federation's old districts, with local Mercenary Groups and businessmen influencing security and politics.
• The importance of cultivation resources and medicinal pills for rapid advancement in martial arts.
• The convenience and risks of black markets for purchasing cultivation resources.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia interacts with local businessmen, Mercenary Group leaders, and casino operators, who flatter and offer gifts to him.
• He does not get along with the Wild Wolf Mercenary Group, which causes some local figures to hesitate in approaching him.
• Chen Xia tests his Blood Soul Bewitching Heart on a dog, demonstrating the power of his illusion technique.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia continues training and improves his martial arts skills, including his shooting and internal force.
• He learns about a dispute at Hongsheng Hardware Factory, where workers are fighting and causing trouble due to unpaid wages.
• Chen Xia decides to intervene and heads to the factory.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia shows concern for his family's well-being and is determined to seek justice for their past mistreatment by Hongsheng Hardware Factory.
• Zhang Feng demonstrates loyalty and initiative by reporting unusual activities and seeking Chen Xia's help for his friend, Xiao Qiang.
• Chang Ke, the Mid-level Captain of Baiyu Street Second Squadron, shows eagerness to follow Chen Xia's orders without question.

Significant Themes

• Justice and retribution for past wrongs.
• Loyalty and initiative among subordinates.
• Chen Xia's growing influence and authority.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia interacts with Zhang Feng and Chang Ke, showing trust and reliance on them.
• Chen Xia's determination to help his family sets the stage for a confrontation with Hongsheng Hardware Factory.
• The dispute at the factory serves as a catalyst for Chen Xia's intervention, highlighting his commitment to justice and protecting the vulnerable.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia arrives at Hongsheng Hardware Factory, backed by the Wild Wolf Mercenary Group.
• A group of interns and their parents protest unpaid wages, leading to a physical altercation with the factory's security guards.
• Hongsheng, the factory owner, watches the scene unfold without intervening.
• Inspectors arrive, led by Mid-level Captain Chang Ke, and are joined by Chen Xia, the newly appointed Deputy Chief.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia demonstrates his new authority and status as Deputy Chief, striking fear into the factory's supervisor and owner.
• Hongsheng, the factory owner, initially dismisses the protestors but becomes concerned and tries to appease Chen Xia upon recognizing him.

Significant Themes

• Power Dynamics: The shift in power is evident as Chen Xia, once a powerless worker's son, returns as a high-ranking official, instilling fear in those who once bullied him.
• Corruption and Exploitation: The factory's exploitation of interns and the security guards' violent response highlight the corrupt practices backed by the Wild Wolf Mercenary Group.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia's arrival causes a stark contrast in reactions from the factory's staff—from initial dismissiveness to fear and attempts to appease him.
• Hongsheng's interaction with Chen Xia reveals his shock and unease at Chen Xia's new status, forcing him to try and salvage the situation.

Chapter Summary: “Whoever Comes Is Useless”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia arrives at Hongsheng Hardware Factory with Patrol Inspection Office personnel after workers and a family have been beaten over a wage dispute.
• He identifies himself as the authority responsible for White Feather Street and promises the victims that justice will be served.
• When more than a dozen armed-looking factory enforcers emerge, Chen Xia orders Chang Ke to arrest everyone involved in the violence.
• Boss Hongsheng attempts to delay the arrests by invoking Fang Haolong and the Wild Wolf Mercenary Corps, which has financial interests in the factory. Chen Xia firmly declares that no one who comes to intervene will be useful.
• Fang Haolong arrives with a large convoy and tries to negotiate with Chen Xia, suggesting they discuss the matter over a meal. Chen Xia refuses and orders the arrests to continue.
• Chen Xia also orders Hongsheng’s arrest, revealing evidence that he withheld 2.3 million in wages, falsified records, violated workplace-safety regulations, and used substandard equipment that caused injuries.
• Although Hongsheng argues that these offenses are outside Chen Xia’s jurisdiction, Chen Xia explains that Hongsheng’s assaults, threats, and disruption of public order place him under the Patrol Inspection Office’s authority.
• Fang Haolong recognizes that openly resisting Chen Xia would be dangerous because Chen Xia is both a Federation inspector and a second-rank martial artist. He advises Hongsheng to cooperate while promising to find another way to help him.
• Hongsheng submits to the arrest, while the injured family agrees to accompany the inspectors for questioning.
• Chen Xia reassures and assists the family, emphasizing that protecting ordinary residents is the Patrol Inspection Office’s duty.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia: Demonstrates authority, resolve, and fearlessness. He refuses to be intimidated by Hongsheng’s connections to the Wild Wolf Mercenary Corps and uses both legal evidence and his official position to enforce justice. His compassionate treatment of the injured family reveals his humility and concern for workers.
• Boss Hongsheng: Shifts from confidence to fear as Chen Xia exposes his crimes and arrests him. He relies heavily on Fang Haolong’s protection but ultimately realizes he cannot openly resist a Federation inspector.
• Fang Haolong: Initially arrives with an intimidating show of force, expecting to resolve the issue through influence. However, he becomes cautious when confronted by Chen Xia’s authority and chooses negotiation rather than direct conflict.
• The injured family: Initially helpless and frightened, they gain confidence after Chen Xia promises to protect them and pursue the perpetrators.
• Chang Ke and the inspectors: Follow Chen Xia’s orders efficiently, reinforcing his control over the Patrol Inspection Office.

Significant Themes

• Justice versus corruption: Chen Xia confronts an employer who exploits workers, withholds wages, falsifies records, and endangers employees.
• Authority and accountability: Social connections and mercenary influence cannot easily override legitimate government power when Chen Xia chooses to enforce the law.
• Courage and integrity: Chen Xia acts according to his principles despite pressure from powerful figures.
• Protection of ordinary people: The chapter emphasizes the responsibility of officials to defend vulnerable citizens rather than favoring the wealthy or influential.
• Power and restraint: Fang Haolong possesses considerable force but recognizes that using it against Chen Xia would create greater consequences, showing the limits imposed by legal authority.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia confronts Hongsheng directly, refusing his attempts to negotiate or hide behind the Wild Wolf Mercenary Corps.
• Fang Haolong and Chen Xia maintain a formally polite but tense exchange, with Fang attempting to soften the situation and Chen Xia asserting institutional authority.
• Fang privately advises Hongsheng to cooperate, warning that Chen Xia’s position and abilities make open resistance too dangerous.
• Chen Xia treats the injured family with warmth and respect, contrasting sharply with his uncompromising treatment of the factory owner and his enforcers.

Summary of “Judgment, Second Update”

Key Plot Points and Events

• After Chen Xia orders the arrest of Hongsheng, the Hardware Factory’s supervisors, and the involved security guards, the factory’s owner and accomplices are taken to the South City Patrol Inspection Branch.
• Fang Haolong, whose Wild Wolf Mercenary Group owns part of the factory, angrily blames Chen Xia but refuses to pay compensation. Although he considers retaliating, he recognizes that Chen Xia’s position and lawful conduct make covert intimidation dangerous.
• Chen Xia gives Chang Ke extensive evidence of the factory’s crimes, including unpaid wages, assaults, workplace injuries, and other abuses. He orders Chang Ke to investigate personally, recover all stolen wages, and compensate victims fairly—including double compensation for emotional suffering and lost work.
• Chen Xia also insists that his own father, Chen Jianshu, receive compensation under the same impartial process.
• The investigation uncovers far more serious crimes: Hongsheng’s people had beaten two workers to death and concealed the murders, while the victims’ families had mysteriously disappeared. Former employees and frightened accomplices begin revealing the factory’s many crimes.
• Chang Ke informs Hongsheng that the victims are owed 23 million in compensation. The factory is also fined 100 million, ordered to suspend operations for rectification, and subjected to asset seizure and public prosecution.
• Hongsheng collapses upon learning that the murders have been exposed. He realizes that his wealth cannot save him and that the evidence is conclusive.
• Fang Haolong attempts to intervene but is driven away by Chen Xia. The Fang Family ultimately refuses to help because Chen Xia has followed legal procedures and has uncovered genuine murders.
• Jiang Xinglan explicitly supports Chen Xia’s actions, telling him not to fear the Wild Wolf Mercenary Group and encouraging him to continue accumulating merit through lawful enforcement.
• After twenty days, the case concludes. Hongsheng loses his wealth and martial artist status and is sentenced to life imprisonment. His supervisor also receives life imprisonment, while other accomplices receive sentences ranging from ten to forty years. They are sent to Dragon Mountain Zone for labor service.
• The factory is auctioned and allowed to continue operating, ensuring that the workers receive their unpaid wages without losing their jobs. The case becomes major news in Yijiang City, and citizens praise Chen Xia’s handling of it.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia is portrayed as principled, decisive, and fearless. He uses his authority to protect ordinary people while carefully staying within the law. His attitude toward the Wild Wolf Mercenary Group hardens once their involvement in the factory’s crimes becomes clear.
• Chang Ke demonstrates loyalty and efficiency, personally directing the investigation and showing no sympathy for Hongsheng’s attempts to deny responsibility.
• Hongsheng changes from an arrogant, violent factory owner who believes compensation will solve everything into a terrified and desperate prisoner. His downfall exposes the consequences of years of abusing workers and disregarding human life.
• Fang Haolong becomes frustrated and resentful toward Chen Xia, but his inability to retaliate reveals the limits of his influence when faced with lawful authority and undeniable evidence.
• Jiang Xinglan emerges as a strong political supporter of Chen Xia, giving him permission to act independently against the Fang Family and emphasizing the strategic value of his achievements.

Significant Themes

• Justice and accountability: The chapter stresses that powerful figures can eventually be punished when evidence and lawful authority are properly applied.
• Protection of ordinary people: Recovering wages, compensating victims, and preserving employment show justice as something that should materially improve people’s lives.
• Abuse of power: Hongsheng and his allies exploit workers because they believe their connections and strength place them beyond punishment.
• Law versus influence: The Fang Family cannot openly interfere because Chen Xia’s actions are legally justified. The chapter presents lawful procedure as a weapon against entrenched power.
• The consequences of unchecked cruelty: Hongsheng’s crimes grow from wage theft and assault into murder, demonstrating how repeated disregard for human life leads to increasingly severe wrongdoing.
• Public faith in justice: Citizens’ enthusiastic reaction shows that punishing corrupt and violent elites restores people’s sense of safety and confidence in authority.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia and Fang Haolong: Their confrontation deepens their hostility. Fang feels publicly humiliated, while Chen Xia refuses to be intimidated or grant special treatment.
• Chen Xia and Chang Ke: Chen Xia entrusts Chang Ke with the investigation, and Chang Ke carries out his orders thoroughly, reflecting mutual trust and shared commitment to justice.
• Chang Ke and Hongsheng: Chang Ke confronts Hongsheng with the evidence, destroys his confidence, and forces him to face the full financial and criminal consequences of his actions.
• Chen Xia and Jiang Xinglan: Their conversation confirms that Chen Xia has institutional support. Jiang’s encouragement gives him greater freedom to challenge the Fang Family.
• The authorities and the victims: Patrol officers contact former workers and victims, transforming long-denied suffering into official compensation and legal recognition.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia's actions against Hongsheng Hardware Factory bring him fame and a large compensation for his father.
• Chen Xia buys a luxurious home in Century New Vista, Yijiang City's Central District, for his family.
• Chen Xia discovers that Lin Qinghan lives in the same residential complex through a bat he controls with his Spiritual Power.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia: He becomes more confident and willing to use his newfound wealth to improve his family's living conditions. He also discovers he can control bats with his Spiritual Power.
• Chen Jianshu: He is proud of Chen Xia's achievements and moves into the new home with the family.
• Lin Qinghan: She is revealed to live in the same residential complex as Chen Xia.

Significant Themes

• Wealth and social status: Chen Xia's new home reflects his improved social and economic status.
• Family: Chen Xia's actions are driven by his desire to provide a better life for his family.
• Spiritual Power: Chen Xia discovers he can control bats with his Spiritual Power, hinting at potential developments in his abilities.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia and Chen Jianshu: They share a heartwarming moment as Chen Jianshu expresses pride in Chen Xia's achievements.
• Chen Xia and Lin Qinghan: They are unaware of each other's presence in the same residential complex, leading to a moment of surprise and curiosity for Chen Xia.

Chapter Summary: “Discovered! Second Update!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xia secretly uses a blood-energy bat to observe Lin Qinghan practicing yoga in her apartment.
• Lin Qinghan, whose spiritual sensitivity reveals her abilities as a spellcaster, senses that she is being watched and investigates the window, though she finds nothing.
• Chen Xia returns to his rooftop and continues training in seclusion.
• He practices the Chasing Moon Knife Technique, demonstrating increasingly precise control by cutting an apple internally with Qi while leaving its skin intact.
• He cultivates the Eternal Night Blood Scripture, producing a dense Blood Yang mist that conceals his identity and disrupts an opponent’s vision.
• While practicing the Seven Injuries Fist, he uses five blood bats as remote visual scouts, allowing him to see clearly even while hidden within the mist.
• Chen Xia reflects on his recent progress and resolves to visit the black market for stronger potions so he can advance toward the third-rank martial master realm.
• After meditating through the night, he gets ready in the morning and leaves for work in his inspection uniform.

Character Developments

• Chen Xia: His cultivation has advanced to the Seventh Stage of a second-rank martial artist, with a punching force of 3,558 kilograms. His Spirit Technique now allows him to create five bats, each with extensive vision, while his Blood Soul Bewitching Heart can control an opponent’s mind through a blood shadow. He has also become highly skilled in spear and knife techniques and is increasingly capable of combining concealment, surveillance, and direct combat.
• Lin Qinghan: Her heightened spiritual awareness is emphasized when she detects Chen Xia’s observing bat. She is portrayed as talented and accomplished: a martial artist, spellcaster, prestigious university graduate, and secretary in the Inspection Chief Office.
• Chen Xia’s family: They remain unaware of the full extent of his rooftop cultivation and supernatural abilities, allowing him to train privately while maintaining a normal family life.

Significant Themes

• Growth through disciplined cultivation: Chen Xia’s strength increases through consistent practice rather than relying constantly on medicine.
• Concealment and surveillance: The blood mist and bats expand his tactical abilities, allowing him to monitor enemies, obscure his movements, and gain an advantage without exposing himself.
• Balancing ordinary life and extraordinary power: Chen Xia trains in secret but still returns to his routine job and family responsibilities.
• Control and refinement: His ability to injure an apple internally without damaging its skin symbolizes his increasingly precise command of Qi and martial techniques.
• Curiosity and boundaries: Chen Xia’s spying on Lin Qinghan introduces a lightly voyeuristic element while also highlighting the danger of her perceptive spiritual abilities.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xia observes Lin Qinghan through a summoned bat, but she senses the surveillance and briefly searches for the watcher.
• Chen Xia compares Lin Qinghan with Jiang Xinglan, noting the contrast between Lin Qinghan’s livelier personality and Jiang Xinglan’s colder temperament.
• Chen Xia interacts only indirectly with his family in this chapter, calling out to them before leaving for work, while concealing his true capabilities from them.