Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Yi, a strategist, reflects on his life and legacy as he shares a final meal with Verdant Green Maiden before his death.
• King Ying Dang of Qin, who drove Zhang Yi away, dies young, and Ying Ji is installed as the new King of Qin.
• The Warring States Devil King is initialized, leading to a period of chaos in Qin.
• Verdant Green Maiden visits Zhang Yi's grave and shares news of the realm with him.
• Qin's power grows steadily under King Ying Ji, culminating in the Changping Campaign against Zhao.
• Bai Qi, a renowned general, is appointed to lead Qin's forces, aiming to capture the entire Zhao army.

Character Developments

• Zhang Yi accepts his mortality and expresses no regrets about his life's work in building Qin's power.
• Verdant Green Maiden shows a rare moment of reluctance in leaving Zhang Yi's grave, indicating a deeper connection with him than previously shown.
• Zhao Kuo, the commander of the besieged Zhao army, exhibits concern for his soldiers' welfare and acknowledges the gravity of their situation.

Significant Themes

• Mortality and legacy: Zhang Yi accepts his impending death and reflects on his life's work, while Verdant Green Maiden grapples with the impermanence of life.
• Power and ambition: Qin's growing strength under King Ying Ji and Bai Qi contrasts with Zhao's desperate situation, highlighting the theme of power dynamics between states.
• Connection and loss: Verdant Green Maiden's reluctance to leave Zhang Yi's grave suggests a deeper emotional bond, while Zhao Kuo's concern for his soldiers emphasizes the importance of connection in the face of adversity.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Yi and Verdant Green Maiden share a final meal, with Zhang Yi expressing gratitude and Verdant Green Maiden offering comfort and remembrance.
• Verdant Green Maiden and Hong Luan interact, with Hong Luan scolding Verdant Green Maiden for considering eating offerings meant for the dead.
• Zhao Kuo and Verdant Green Maiden discuss the dire situation of the Zhao army, with Zhao Kuo expressing concern and Verdant Green Maiden displaying nonchalance.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Kuo, the Zhao Army's commander, is surrounded by the Qin Army led by Bai Qi.
• Verdant Green Maiden reveals that Bai Qi, not Wang He, is the Qin general commanding the army.
• Zhao Kuo decides to lead his starving army in a final attempt to break through the Qin encirclement.
• Zhao Kuo dies in the battle, and the remaining Zhao Army surrenders to the Qin.
• Verdant Green Maiden takes Zhao Kuo's corpse away and is intercepted by Bai Qi.

Character Developments

• Zhao Kuo: Becomes increasingly desperate as his army starves. He acknowledges Verdant Green Maiden's extraordinary abilities but ultimately decides to lead his army in a suicidal charge.
• Verdant Green Maiden: Reveals that she is not human and has a divine bird, Hong Luan, serving her. She shows no intention of helping the Zhao Army break through the encirclement.
• Bai Qi: The Qin general leading the army surrounding the Zhao Army. He is revealed to be a formidable and ruthless commander, earning him the nickname "Butcher."

Significant Themes

• Desperation and Suicide: Zhao Kuo's decision to lead his starving army in a final charge reflects the desperation of their situation and the willingness to accept death rather than surrender.
• Extraordinary Abilities: Verdant Green Maiden's revelation that she is not human and her divine bird, Hong Luan, highlight the presence of extraordinary abilities or entities in the story.
• Ruthless Commanders: Bai Qi's nickname, "Butcher," and his actions reflect the ruthless nature of the commanders in this historical context.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Kuo and Verdant Green Maiden: Zhao Kuo acknowledges Verdant Green Maiden's extraordinary abilities but does not ask for her help, instead leading his army in a final charge.
• Verdant Green Maiden and Bai Qi: Verdant Green Maiden and Bai Qi have a tense encounter as she tries to take Zhao Kuo's corpse away, and he tries to stop her.
• Zhao Kuo and his Army: Zhao Kuo's decision to lead his army in a final charge reflects his commitment to his troops and his desire to avoid surrender.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qing Nü (Verdant Green Maiden), an immortal, appears on the battlefield, killing Zhao Kuo and saving some Zhao soldiers.
• Bai Qi, the Qin general, lets Qing Nü pass after she advises him not to kill surrendered enemies.
• Emperor Ying Ji of Qin arrives at Changping, learns about the captured Zhao soldiers, and decides not to pursue the Zhao army further.
• Bai Qi is later dismissed and executed by Emperor Ying Ji.

Character Developments

• Qing Nü: Shows her power and wisdom, advising Bai Qi and burying Zhao Kuo respectfully.
• Bai Qi: Initially determined to follow orders, he shows hesitation after Qing Nü's advice and is later dismissed and executed.
• Emperor Ying Ji: Demonstrates his strategic thinking, considering Qin's resources and deciding not to pursue the Zhao army further.

Significant Themes

• The Inevitability of History: Qing Nü laments that she cannot change the course of history despite her powers.
• The Cost of War: The Battle of Changping results in the deaths of 400,000 Zhao soldiers and the conscription of more men in Handan.
• The Power of Immortals: Qing Nü's intervention shows the impact immortals can have on the mortal world.

Character Interactions

• Qing Nü and Bai Qi: Qing Nü advises Bai Qi not to kill surrendered enemies, and Bai Qi lets her pass.
• Bai Qi and Emperor Ying Ji: Bai Qi requests a pursuit to Handan, but Emperor Ying Ji declines due to Qin's exhaustion.
• Verdant Green Maiden and Zhao Kuo's Family: Verdant Green Maiden visits the family of Zhao Kuo, showing compassion for the common people.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Verdant Green Maiden (VGM) continues to visit Ying Yiren's family, bringing gifts.
• Ying Yiren asks VGM to name their unborn child, which she does, choosing 'Zheng'.
• Little Ying Zheng is born, and VGM, despite not delivering the baby, claims a connection to him.
• Ying Yiren asks VGM to be Zheng's master, which she agrees to.

Character Developments

• Ying Yiren: Shows gratitude and respect towards VGM, asks her to name his child and become Zheng's master.
• Verdant Green Maiden: Shows affection and interest in Zheng, agrees to be his master.
• Zhao Ji: Gives birth to Zheng, shows gratitude towards VGM.

Significant Themes

• Fate: VGM believes she and Zheng are fated to meet, and she agrees to be his master due to this belief.
• Gratitude: Ying Yiren and Zhao Ji express their gratitude to VGM for her help.
• Destiny: Zheng's future is seen as profound and auspicious by VGM.

Character Interactions

• VGM and Ying Yiren: They interact positively, with Ying Yiren showing respect and VGM showing affection and interest in Zheng.
• VGM and Zhao Ji: They interact warmly, with Zhao Ji showing gratitude towards VGM.
• VGM and Zheng: VGM shows a special interest in Zheng, claiming a connection to him despite not delivering him.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Qin Army has surrounded the Zhou Royal Palace in Luoyi.
• Qing Nü (Verdant Green Maiden) infiltrates the palace to find King Zhou Ji Yan.
• Ying Ji (Warring States Devil King) captures Qing Nü, revealing he knows about her from Zong Zhou canons.
• Qing Nü takes Ying Ji to see Ji Yan, who is dying, and demonstrates the "consequences" of making a deal with her by taking Ji Yan's Heart's Blood.
• She warns Ying Ji that Great Qin will be next.

Character Developments

• Qing Nü: She remains nonchalant and powerful, revealing her role in the rise and fall of previous dynasties. She shows no remorse in taking Ji Yan's Heart's Blood.
• Ying Ji: Ying Ji is ambitious and believes in the power of alliances, even with immortals like Qing Nü. He's shocked by the consequences of her help.

Significant Themes

• Power and Ambition: Ying Ji's ambition drives him to seek Qing Nü's help, while Qing Nü's power is shown through her role in past dynasties.
• Consequences of Actions: Qing Nü emphasizes the severe consequences of making a deal with her, highlighting the theme of cause and effect.

Character Interactions

• Qing Nü and Ying Ji: Their interaction is tense yet informative, with Ying Ji trying to understand Qing Nü's power and intentions, while she remains enigmatic and threatening.
• Qing Nü and Ji Yan: Their interaction is brief but significant, as Qing Nü takes Ji Yan's Heart's Blood, symbolizing the end of his dynasty.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Verdant Green Maiden (Qing Nü) reveals her ambition to become a Dragon, scaring Ying Ji, the King of Qin.
• Verdant Green Maiden leaves, threatening to take the Heart's Blood of the last Qin monarch.
• Ying Ji orders the search for the Yin Yang School to protect his dynasty's fortune.
• Verdant Green Maiden returns to Handan, finding Zhao Ji and Ying Zheng in hiding. She protects them from the Zhao Army.

Character Developments

• Verdant Green Maiden (Qing Nü): She demonstrates her power and ambition, revealing her desire to become a Dragon. She also shows care for Ying Zheng, treating him kindly.
• Ying Ji: He becomes aware of the threat Verdant Green Maiden poses and takes steps to protect his dynasty's fortune.
• Ying Zheng: He idolizes Verdant Green Maiden, seeing her as a Frost Snow Goddess. He shows courage and resilience in the face of danger.

Significant Themes

• Ambition vs. Responsibility: Verdant Green Maiden's ambition to become a Dragon contrasts with Ying Ji's responsibility to protect his dynasty's fortune.
• Power and Protection: Verdant Green Maiden's power allows her to protect those she cares about, like Ying Zheng and Zhao Ji.

Character Interactions

• Verdant Green Maiden (Qing Nü) and Ying Zheng: Their interaction shows Ying Zheng's admiration for Verdant Green Maiden and her affection for him.
• Verdant Green Maiden (Qing Nü) and Ying Ji: Their interaction reveals Verdant Green Maiden's threat to Ying Ji's dynasty and his determination to protect it.
• Verdant Green Maiden (Qing Nü) and Zhao Ji: Their interaction shows Zhao Ji's trust in Verdant Green Maiden's protection.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Verdant Green Maiden leads the group back to Xianyang, deterring any further attempts by the King of Zhao to capture Zhao Ji and Ying Zheng.
• Ying Yiren changes his name to Ying Zichu, becoming the son of Lady Huayang and the heir to the Qin throne.
• Zhao sends an envoy to escort Ying Zheng and Zhao Ji back to Qin, but they are blocked outside Xianyang City by Lady Huayang's orders.
• Ying Zheng asserts his identity as a descendant of the Qin royal family and, with Verdant Green Maiden's help, forcefully enters Xianyang City.

Character Developments

• Ying Zheng: Grows up under Verdant Green Maiden's guidance, becoming skilled in swordplay and displaying ambition and determination to protect his family and master.
• Zhao Ji: Becomes increasingly worried and resentful about Ying Yiren's absence and perceived abandonment, turning her love into hidden resentment.
• Verdant Green Maiden: Continues to train Ying Zheng, showing concern for his well-being and acknowledging his ambition.

Significant Themes

• Power and Strength: Verdant Green Maiden emphasizes the importance of strength in subjugating others, as demonstrated by Ying Zheng's forceful entry into Xianyang City.
• Identity and Legacy: Ying Zheng's struggle to assert his royal identity and lineage is a central theme, as is the question of whether he will live up to his family's legacy.

Character Interactions

• Ying Zheng and Verdant Green Maiden: Ying Zheng expresses his desire to protect Verdant Green Maiden, and she acknowledges his ambition, fostering a mentor-mentee relationship.
• Zhao Ji and Verdant Green Maiden: Zhao Ji seeks comfort from Verdant Green Maiden regarding Ying Yiren's absence, but Verdant Green Maiden's counsel goes unheeded.
• Ying Zheng and the Guard Commander: Ying Zheng asserts his royal identity, and Verdant Green Maiden forcefully opens the city gate, leading to the guard commander's defeat and fainting.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Verdant Green Maiden arrives at the Royal Palace with her entourage, causing a stir among the citizens.
• Ying Zhu, the King of Qin, is discussing matters with Ying Zichu and Lady Huayang when Verdant Green Maiden's arrival is announced.
• Ying Zichu recognizes Verdant Green Maiden as his former wife, Zhao Ji, and their son, Ying Zheng.
• Ying Zhu welcomes Ying Zheng warmly and tests his knowledge, impressed by his learning.
• Verdant Green Maiden is invited to the Imperial Garden by Ying Zhu, where members of the Yin Yang School ambush them.
• Verdant Green Maiden reveals her two to three thousand years of lifespan, shocking everyone.
• Ying Zhu expresses his belief that Verdant Green Maiden won't harm the last Monarch of Great Qin, unlike the Former King's belief.

Character Developments

• Ying Zheng: Shows maturity and intelligence beyond his age, impressing Ying Zhu with his knowledge.
• Ying Zhu: Demonstrates wisdom and open-mindedness by not immediately siding with the Yin Yang School's plan to capture Verdant Green Maiden.
• Verdant Green Maiden: Reveals her immense age and power, showing no fear of the Yin Yang School members.

Significant Themes

• The power of knowledge and education (Ying Zheng's learning impresses Ying Zhu).
• The wisdom of the current ruler versus the former (Ying Zhu's open-mindedness vs. the Former King's superstition).
• The fear and awe of the unknown (the Yin Yang School's reaction to Verdant Green Maiden's true age and power).

Character Interactions

• Ying Zheng and Ying Zhu: Ying Zheng impresses Ying Zhu with his knowledge, and Ying Zhu shows affection towards Ying Zheng.
• Verdant Green Maiden and Ying Zhu: Ying Zhu invites Verdant Green Maiden to the Imperial Garden to discuss his thoughts on her, showing respect and curiosity.
• Verdant Green Maiden and the Yin Yang School: Verdant Green Maiden shows no fear of the Yin Yang School members, dismissing their threats.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ying Zhu, now King Xiaowen, seeks Verdant Green Maiden's (Qing Nu's) assistance for Ying Zheng's rule.
• Verdant Green Maiden agrees, on the condition that Ying Zheng becomes the King of Qin.
• Ying Zhu orders the execution of the Yin Yang School members, who were brought as a gift to Verdant Green Maiden.
• The Yin Yang School's influence is eradicated within Qin territory, and they flee to the Six States of Shandong.
• Ying Zhu establishes the Qing Xiao Jade Maiden Temple in Xianyang, dedicated to Qing Nu, and orders frequent sacrifices to her.
• Ying Zhu falls gravely ill and summons Qing Nu, Ying Zheng, and Ying Zichu to his deathbed, asking Verdant Green Maiden to protect Great Qin and reminding Ying Zichu about the Eastern Expedition.
• King Xiaowen dies, and the Qin court establishes the Qing Xiao Jade Maiden Temple, tying Qing Nu's fate to Qin's Auspicious Fortune.

Character Developments

• Ying Zhu: Shows his eloquence and strategic thinking, prioritizing present gains over distant future uncertainties. He understands the importance of Verdant Green Maiden and is willing to make sacrifices to gain her assistance.
• Verdant Green Maiden (Qing Nu): Agrees to assist Ying Zheng, hoping to change the course of history and obtain the vital essence of a final Monarch. She also shows care for Hong Luan, promising not to abandon her.
• Ying Zheng: Ying Zhu grants him the title of Royal Grandson, making him the Crown Prince in waiting.
• Ying Zichu: Knelt before Ying Zhu's deathbed, promising to remember the Eastern Expedition.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and alliances: Ying Zhu seeks Verdant Green Maiden's assistance to secure Ying Zheng's rule, while the Yin Yang School's influence wanes.
• Fate and destiny: Verdant Green Maiden hopes to change the course of history and protect Great Qin, while also being tied to Qin's Auspicious Fortune.
• Sacrifice and gain: Ying Zhu is willing to make sacrifices (the Yin Yang School members) to gain Verdant Green Maiden's assistance, and the Qin court establishes the Qing Xiao Jade Maiden Temple to secure Qing Nu's protection.

Character Interactions

• Ying Zhu and Verdant Green Maiden: Ying Zhu seeks Verdant Green Maiden's assistance, while she agrees but sets conditions and later shows interest in Ying Zhu's determination.
• Verdant Green Maiden and Ying Zheng: Verdant Green Maiden agrees to assist Ying Zheng, hoping to change history and protect Great Qin.
• Ying Zhu and Ying Zichu: Ying Zhu reminds Ying Zichu about the Eastern Expedition on his deathbed, while Ying Zichu promises to remember it.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ying Zichu passes away, and Ying Zheng ascends to the throne as the new King of Qin.
• Envoys from the Six States attend Ying Zheng's coronation, expressing doubts about Qin's future due to recent events.
• Ying Zheng goes hunting with Qing Nü, expressing his desire to become the Emperor of the world and seeking her approval.

Character Developments

• Ying Zheng: Ying Zheng ascends to the throne and expresses his determination to become the Emperor of the world, seeking Qing Nü's guidance and approval.
• Qing Nü: Qing Nü reveals her expectations for Ying Zheng, wanting him to surpass the Three Sovereigns in merits and the Five Emperors in virtue.
• Verdant Green Maiden: She expresses her frustration with her height and her disapproval of Ying Zheng's familiarity, but ultimately accepts his apology.

Significant Themes

• Ambition and Determination: Ying Zheng's ambition to become the Emperor of the world is a central theme, as he seeks Qing Nü's guidance and approval.
• Mentorship: The relationship between Ying Zheng and Qing Nü is one of mentor and mentee, with Qing Nü guiding Ying Zheng's path to power.
• Frustration and Acceptance: Verdant Green Maiden's frustration with her height and her eventual acceptance of Ying Zheng's apology highlight the theme of dealing with frustration and finding acceptance.

Character Interactions

• Ying Zheng and Qing Nü: Their interaction revolves around Ying Zheng's desire to become the Emperor of the world and Qing Nü's guidance and approval.
• Ying Zheng and Verdant Green Maiden: Their interaction involves Verdant Green Maiden's frustration with Ying Zheng's familiarity and her eventual acceptance of his apology.
• Ying Zheng and the Envoys from the Six States: The envoys express doubts about Qin's future, putting pressure on Ying Zheng to prove himself as a capable ruler.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ying Zheng's ascension to the throne prompts the search for a Queen.
• Princesses from the Six States flood into Qin, causing a stir.
• Ying Zheng falls ill due to pressure from Dowager Empresses Huayang and Zhao Ji regarding the Queen selection.

Character Developments

• Ying Zheng shows maturity and responsibility, considering the political implications of choosing a Queen.
• Verdant Green Maiden, despite her initial reluctance, agrees to support Ying Zheng in the Queen selection process.
• Afang demonstrates her loyalty and devotion to Ying Zheng, acting as his confidante and assistant.

Significant Themes

• Power and Politics: The selection of a Queen is not just a personal matter but a political one, involving the interests of different states and clans.
• Growth and Responsibility: Ying Zheng, though still young, begins to understand and shoulder the responsibilities of ruling a nation.
• Loyalty and Support: Verdant Green Maiden and Afang show their unwavering support for Ying Zheng, highlighting the theme of loyalty.

Character Interactions

• Ying Zheng and Verdant Green Maiden: Ying Zheng seeks Verdant Green Maiden's support in the Queen selection, showing their close bond. Verdant Green Maiden, despite her initial reluctance, agrees to help, demonstrating her love and care for Ying Zheng.
• Ying Zheng and Afang: Ying Zheng entrusts Afang with tasks, showing his trust in her. Afang, in turn, proves her loyalty and dedication to Ying Zheng.
• Dowager Empress Huayang and Zhao Ji: The two Dowager Empresses put pressure on Ying Zheng regarding the Queen selection, highlighting the political complexities of the situation.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Verdant Green Maiden (Snake Girl) punches Ying Zheng after he tries to make her his queen, then flees.
• Ying Zheng defends Verdant Green Maiden's actions and claims her as his chosen queen.
• Verdant Green Maiden and Hong Luan (a bird) escape from the Qin Palace and leave Xianyang.
• Ying Zheng searches for Verdant Green Maiden but cannot find her.
• Verdant Green Maiden reaches the coast of the Qi State and stays on a small island near an ancestral shrine of the Jiang Qi royal clan.
• Ying Zheng marries the Chu Princess but does not appoint a queen, instead establishing the Black Ice Platform to monitor the world and gather intelligence.

Character Developments

• Ying Zheng: Stands up for Verdant Green Maiden, showing determination and resolve.
• Verdant Green Maiden: Realizes Ying Zheng's intentions and flees, later expressing regret for underestimating him.
• Hong Luan: Shows loyalty to Verdant Green Maiden, accompanying her in her escape and providing comic relief.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and manipulation: Ying Zheng tries to control Verdant Green Maiden, highlighting the power imbalance between them.
• Identity and belonging: Verdant Green Maiden struggles with her identity as a snake and her place in the human world.
• Escape and pursuit: Verdant Green Maiden's escape and Ying Zheng's pursuit emphasize their differing goals and the tension between them.

Character Interactions

• Ying Zheng and Verdant Green Maiden: Their interaction highlights Ying Zheng's determination to make Verdant Green Maiden his queen and her resistance to his control.
• Verdant Green Maiden and Hong Luan: Their interaction shows a deep bond between them, with Hong Luan providing support and comic relief.
• Ying Zheng and his mother, Dowager Empress Huayang: Their interaction reveals Ying Zheng's resolve in choosing Verdant Green Maiden as his queen, despite his mother's disapproval.

Key Plot Points

• Verdant Green Maiden, a Dragon, refuses to marry and instead wants to attend Ying Zheng's coming-of-age ceremony.
• The Black Ice Platform finds Verdant Green Maiden and delivers an invitation from Ying Zheng.
• Verdant Green Maiden and Hong Luan travel to Yong City for the ceremony.

Character Developments

• Verdant Green Maiden: Shows her strength and independence, and expresses her desire to become a Dragon.
• Ying Zheng: Admits his past mistakes and invites Verdant Green Maiden to his coming-of-age ceremony.
• Hong Luan: Feels inferior due to its inability to transform into a human, leading to a temporary cold war with Verdant Green Maiden.

Significant Themes

• Coming-of-age and growth: Verdant Green Maiden's journey and Ying Zheng's ceremony represent their growth and transitions.
• Friendship and reconciliation: Verdant Green Maiden and Hong Luan's argument and eventual reconciliation highlight the importance of communication and forgiveness.

Character Interactions

• Verdant Green Maiden and the Black Ice Platform: She beats them up before accepting Ying Zheng's invitation.
• Verdant Green Maiden and Hong Luan: They argue, leading to Hong Luan feeling upset, but later reconcile.
• Ying Zheng and Verdant Green Maiden: Ying Zheng invites her to his coming-of-age ceremony, showing his desire for her presence and recognition.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ying Zheng reunites with Verdant Green Maiden after years, but she's not dressed as the Queen of Qin.
• Verdant Green Maiden gifts Ying Zheng sacrificial meat, and Afang takes it away to prepare it.
• Ying Zheng confides in Verdant Green Maiden about his mother's favorite, Lao Ai, who is planning a rebellion with her support.
• Ying Zheng introduces his concubine, Mi Hua, and their son, Fusu, to Verdant Green Maiden.
• Ying Zheng asks Verdant Green Maiden to become Fusu's master, which she agrees to after some teasing.

Character Developments

• Ying Zheng: Shows vulnerability and seeks comfort from Verdant Green Maiden, revealing his loneliness and frustration with his mother's favoritism.
• Verdant Green Maiden: Demonstrates her nurturing side, interacting warmly with Fusu and agreeing to become his master.
• Mi Hua: Shows respect and deference to Verdant Green Maiden and Ying Zheng, and cares for Fusu's well-being.
• Fusu: Displays innocence and curiosity, showing affection towards Verdant Green Maiden.

Significant Themes

• Loyalty and betrayal: Ying Zheng's struggle with his mother's favoritism and Lao Ai's rebellion.
• Family and responsibility: Ying Zheng's concern for his son's upbringing and Verdant Green Maiden's agreement to become Fusu's master.
• Power dynamics: The tension between Ying Zheng's desire for control and his mother's influence.

Character Interactions

• Ying Zheng and Verdant Green Maiden: Share a heartfelt conversation about Ying Zheng's struggles as a king, and Ying Zheng seeks her guidance for Fusu's upbringing.
• Ying Zheng and Mi Hua: Present a united front in introducing Fusu to Verdant Green Maiden and seeking her guidance.
• Verdant Green Maiden and Fusu: Interact warmly, with Verdant Green Maiden showing affection towards the young prince and agreeing to become his master.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ying Zheng invites Qing Nü to travel together, but she declines due to her unpredictable nature.
• In Xianyang, Marquis of Changxin, Lao Ai, attempts a coup, leading to a power struggle in the palace.
• Ying Zheng orders the execution of his two half-brothers, but Qing Nü intervenes, suggesting exile instead.
• Qing Nü returns to live in the Qin Palace, and Zhao Ji leaves for Yong City, never to return.
• Ying Zheng locks himself in his bedchamber for three days, but Qing Nü helps him emerge, reaffirming his commitment to unifying the empire.

Character Developments

• Ying Zheng: Ying Zheng shows his growing ruthlessness and determination by ordering the execution of his half-brothers. He also demonstrates his resolve to become a great king, emerging from his seclusion with renewed purpose.
• Qing Nü: Qing Nü continues to influence Ying Zheng, acting as a mentor and guide. She shows concern for his well-being and supports his ambition.
• Zhao Ji: Zhao Ji's love for her sons blinds her, leading her to disown Ying Zheng. She leaves the palace for Yong City, never to return.

Significant Themes

• Power and Ambition: The struggle for power between Ying Zheng and Lao Ai highlights the theme of ambition and the consequences of unchecked power.
• Mentorship and Influence: Qing Nü's role as Ying Zheng's mentor emphasizes the theme of guidance and influence, with her actions shaping Ying Zheng's character and decisions.
• Consequences of Actions: The outcomes of Lao Ai's coup and Zhao Ji's disownment of Ying Zheng illustrate the theme of cause and effect, showing that actions have consequences.

Character Interactions

• Ying Zheng and Qing Nü: Their interactions continue to show Qing Nü's influence over Ying Zheng, with her words and actions guiding him towards his destiny as a king.
• Ying Zheng and Zhao Ji: Their relationship deteriorates as Zhao Ji's love for her other sons leads her to disown Ying Zheng, causing a rift between them.
• Qing Nü and Hong Luan: Their dynamic shows Qing Nü's care for her familiar, Hong Luan, with Qing Nü often considering Hong Luan's feelings and opinions.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin has consecutively conquered Han and Zhao, setting its sights on Yan.
• Crown Prince Ji Dan of Yan, fearing Qin's invasion, seeks a brave warrior to assassinate King Zheng of Qin.
• Jing Ke accepts the task, demanding General Fan Yu Qi's head and the map of Du Kang region as prerequisites.
• Jing Ke and Qin Wu Yang cross the Yi River, heading towards Xianyang to assassinate King Zheng.

Character Developments

• Crown Prince Ji Dan: Desperate and anxious, he's willing to do anything to protect Yan from Qin's invasion.
• Jing Ke: Calm and determined, he's willing to sacrifice himself to assassinate King Zheng, showing bravery and cunning.
• Qin Wu Yang: Loyal and brave, he accompanies Jing Ke on the mission, displaying unwavering dedication.
• Fusu: Intelligent and responsible, he's concerned about state affairs and his father's health, hinting at future political involvement.

Significant Themes

• Bravery and Sacrifice: Jing Ke embodies these qualities, willing to die for his country and people.
• Power and Ambition: Qin's relentless conquests showcase its power and King Zheng's ambition.
• Longevity and Immortality: Fusu's interest in the Art of Longevity reflects his concern for his father's health and his curiosity about the supernatural.

Character Interactions

• Crown Prince Ji Dan and Jing Ke: Ji Dan entrusts Jing Ke with the assassination mission, showing his desperation and Jing Ke's bravery.
• Jing Ke and Qin Wu Yang: Jing Ke's calm demeanor reassures Qin Wu Yang, demonstrating their growing trust and partnership.
• Qing Nü and Fusu: Their conversation reveals their close relationship and Fusu's political awareness, as well as Qing Nü's concern for King Zheng's health.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Green Clothed Girl (Qing Nü) explains cultivation to Fusu, who follows her instructions.
• Jing Ke, an assassin from Yan, attempts to kill Ying Zheng in the Qin Imperial Court.
• Qing Nü intervenes, saving Ying Zheng but causing Jing Ke to fail in his mission.
• Ying Zheng orders the destruction of Yan, which is subsequently conquered.
• Lord Changping Mi Qi, the father of Mi Hua and future maternal grandfather of Ying Zheng, rebels against Qin.

Character Developments

• Fusu shows obedience and trust in Qing Nü, following her instructions without question.
• Jing Ke, despite his heroic efforts, fails to assassinate Ying Zheng and is eventually captured.
• Qing Nü realizes she is History's Xia Wuqie, the legendary strategist, after saving Ying Zheng.
• Ying Zheng shows concern for Qing Nü's well-being and is determined to protect her.
• Lord Changping Mi Qi rebels against Qin, revealing his disloyalty to the state.

Significant Themes

• Loyalty and Disloyalty: Fusu's loyalty to Qing Nü contrasts with Lord Changping's disloyalty to Qin.
• Power and Ambition: Jing Ke's assassination attempt highlights the power struggle between states, while Ying Zheng's ambition is seen in his desire to promote new forces.
• Identity and Self-Discovery: Qing Nü's realization of her true identity as Xia Wuqie raises questions about her role in history.

Character Interactions

• Qing Nü and Fusu: Qing Nü explains cultivation to Fusu, showing a nurturing and protective side.
• Jing Ke and Qing Nü: Jing Ke blames Qing Nü for the suffering of the people, leading to a tense interaction.
• Ying Zheng and Qing Nü: Ying Zheng's concern for Qing Nü's well-being deepens, while Qing Nü shows a protective side towards Ying Zheng.
• Ying Zheng and Lord Changping: Their relationship is strained due to Lord Changping's rebellion, highlighting the political intrigue within the Qin court.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Mi Qi, a high-ranking official in Qin, betrays the state by aligning with Chu, causing an uproar in the Qin court.
• Ying Zheng, the king of Qin, is enraged by Mi Qi's betrayal and considers punishing his family, Mi Hua and Fusu.
• Verdant Green Maiden, Ying Zheng's mentor, intervenes and advises Ying Zheng not to blame Mi Hua and Fusu for their father's actions.
• Ying Zheng sends a eunuch, Zhao Gao, to Verdant Green Maiden with a straw doll, symbolizing his unchanged loyalty to her.
• Verdant Green Maiden, upon receiving the doll, asks Zhao Gao to meet her at the Jade Maiden Shrine, where she kills him.

Character Developments

• Ying Zheng: Shows anger and suspicion towards Mi Qi's family but ultimately listens to Verdant Green Maiden's advice, demonstrating his respect for her.
• Verdant Green Maiden: Reveals her loyalty and protective nature towards her students, even going as far as killing Zhao Gao, possibly to prevent him from becoming a threat.
• Mi Hua: Shows concern for her son's safety and the family's reputation, but remains loyal to Ying Zheng.
• Fusu: Remains respectful and obedient to Verdant Green Maiden, showing no signs of rebellion despite his father's actions.

Significant Themes

• Loyalty vs. Betrayal: Mi Qi's betrayal of Qin contrasts with Verdant Green Maiden's unwavering loyalty to Ying Zheng and her students.
• Power and Change: Ying Zheng's growing power and change as a ruler are reflected in his initial anger and later restraint towards Mi Qi's family.
• Fate and Unpredictability: Verdant Green Maiden's actions, particularly killing Zhao Gao, suggest she believes in taking control of one's fate and being prepared for the unpredictable.

Character Interactions

• Ying Zheng and Verdant Green Maiden: Their relationship remains strong, with Ying Zheng seeking her advice and Verdant Green Maiden protecting her student's family.
• Verdant Green Maiden and Mi Hua/Fusu: Verdant Green Maiden reassures Mi Hua and Fusu of her support, showing her maternal side.
• Verdant Green Maiden and Zhao Gao: Their interaction is brief but significant, ending in Zhao Gao's death, possibly due to Verdant Green Maiden's foresight or paranoia.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qing Nü kills Zhao Gao, a future traitor, in advance.
• Qing Nü enters a long sleep, lasting five months, with no apparent cause.
• Ying Zheng promotes Li Si, a Chu official, to Prime Minister and establishes Fusu, his son with a Chu mother, as Crown Prince, defying ministers' expectations.
• Qing Nü wakes up after five months, and Ying Zheng and Fusu decide to handle all affairs to protect her.

Character Developments

• Qing Nü: Shows fear after killing Zhao Gao, then enters a mysterious sleep. Upon waking, she decides to let Ying Zheng and Fusu handle matters.
• Ying Zheng: Becomes more protective of Qing Nü after her sleep, wanting to shield her from danger. He also shows political prowess by appointing Li Si and Fusu despite ministerial opposition.
• Fusu: Gains the position of Crown Prince, showing maturity and responsibility. He also expresses concern for Qing Nü's well-being.

Significant Themes

• Power and Politics: Ying Zheng's decisions regarding Li Si and Fusu demonstrate his political acumen and willingness to defy tradition for the sake of his empire.
• Trust and Loyalty: Ying Zheng's trust in Qing Nü is unwavering, even when she sleeps for an extended period without explanation. Qing Nü, in turn, trusts Ying Zheng and Fusu to handle affairs.
• Change and Adaptation: Ying Zheng's appointment of Li Si and Fusu shows his ability to adapt and change, employing talents from different states to strengthen his empire.

Character Interactions

• Qing Nü and Ying Zheng: Their relationship deepens as Ying Zheng becomes more protective of Qing Nü, and she entrusts him with handling affairs.
• Qing Nü and Fusu: Fusu shows concern for Qing Nü's well-being and is eager to prove himself as Crown Prince.
• Ying Zheng and His Ministers: Ying Zheng defies his ministers' expectations by appointing Li Si and Fusu, demonstrating his independence and strong will.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Verdant Green Maiden awakens and realizes the price of changing history.
• Ying Zheng forbids her from managing anything to protect her.
• Verdant Green Maiden learns about Ying Zheng's plan to refine Immortal Medicine to heal her, causing her to confront Ying Zheng.
• Ying Zheng reveals his intention to crown himself Emperor, and Verdant Green Maiden approves.
• The Coronation Ceremony approaches, and Ying Zheng sends new clothes for Verdant Green Maiden.
• The ceremony begins, with the Six Nations' officials surrendering and the Qin Army horns sounding.

Character Developments

• Verdant Green Maiden: Becomes more protective of Ying Zheng and his reputation, showing concern for his actions.
• Ying Zheng: Shows determination to protect Verdant Green Maiden and solidifies his power by preparing for his Coronation Ceremony.
• Afang: Gains status as the foremost Female Official in the Qin Palace, showing growth and loyalty.

Significant Themes

• Power and responsibility: Ying Zheng's growing power and the consequences of his actions.
• Loyalty and trust: Verdant Green Maiden's trust in Ying Zheng and her concern for his well-being.
• Change and acceptance: Verdant Green Maiden's acceptance of the changes in history and her role in them.

Character Interactions

• Verdant Green Maiden and Ying Zheng: Their relationship deepens as Ying Zheng shows his dedication to protecting her, and she becomes more concerned for his well-being.
• Verdant Green Maiden and Hong Luan: Hong Luan reveals Ying Zheng's plan to refine Immortal Medicine, causing Verdant Green Maiden to confront Ying Zheng.
• Verdant Green Maiden and Afang: Afang reassures Verdant Green Maiden that Ying Zheng will not repeat his previous actions, showing her loyalty and growth.