Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

+ Verdant Green Maiden meets with Gao De, offering him a chance to investigate Prince Jin (Li Zhi) in exchange for his cooperation.
+ Li Chengqian receives a message from Xuanzang to visit Great Ci'en Temple urgently.
+ Verdant Green Maiden summons Li Chengqian to discuss a matter.

Character Developments

+ Gao De is torn between the opportunity offered by Verdant Green Maiden and the risk of investigating the royal family.
+ Li Chengqian is anxious and uneasy about meeting Verdant Green Maiden, showing his respect and awe for her.
+ Verdant Green Maiden remains calm and composed, demonstrating her strategic thinking and patience.

Significant Themes

+ Power dynamics and political intrigue, as Verdant Green Maiden manipulates events from behind the scenes.
+ The tension between loyalty and ambition, seen in Gao De's internal struggle.
+ The reverence and fear inspired by Verdant Green Maiden, reflecting her status and influence.

Character Interactions

+ Verdant Green Maiden and Gao De: She uses his desire for power and status to manipulate him into doing her bidding.
+ Li Chengqian and Verdant Green Maiden: Li Chengqian shows deference and respect towards Verdant Green Maiden, highlighting the power imbalance between them.
+ Xuanzang and Verdant Green Maiden: Xuanzang remains loyal and attentive to Verdant Green Maiden, acting as her intermediary with Li Chengqian.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Chengqian meets Qing Nü (Verdant Green Maiden) at Great Ci'en Temple.
• Qing Nü criticizes Li Chengqian's lack of confidence and encourages him to be himself.
• Gao De, a minor official among the Bad People, is introduced. Qing Nü asks Li Chengqian to make Gao De the Bad Commander.
• Gao De is tasked by Qing Nü to investigate a mysterious Old Daoist Priest connected to Li Hong, Prince Jin's heir apparent.
• Gao De discovers that the Old Daoist Priest has unknown origins, name, and whereabouts.

Character Developments

• Li Chengqian: Struggles with self-doubt and the weight of his new role as emperor. Qing Nü's words help him gain some confidence.
• Gao De: Initially timid, gains confidence and determination after being appointed Bad Commander by Qing Nü. Shows initiative and capability in investigating the Old Daoist Priest.
• Qing Nü: Demonstrates a nurturing and guiding side, helping Li Chengqian and Gao De. Shows interest in the Old Daoist Priest's whereabouts.

Significant Themes

• Self-confidence and identity: Li Chengqian struggles with his new role and identity as emperor, while Gao De gains confidence in his new position.
• Mentorship and guidance: Qing Nü acts as a mentor to both Li Chengqian and Gao De, guiding them and helping them grow.
• Investigation and uncovering secrets: Gao De's investigation into the Old Daoist Priest highlights the theme of uncovering hidden truths and secrets.

Character Interactions

• Li Chengqian and Qing Nü: Qing Nü criticizes Li Chengqian's timidity and encourages him to be more confident in his role as emperor.
• Qing Nü and Gao De: Qing Nü appoints Gao De as Bad Commander and tasks him with investigating the Old Daoist Priest, showing faith in his abilities.
• Li Chengqian and Gao De: Li Chengqian acknowledges Gao De's new position and shows interest in his investigation, indicating a potential alliance between them.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Verdant Green Maiden learns about Wu Yuanqing's association with the Dou family of Hebei.
• Xuanzang completes translating the Mahayana Buddhist Law.
• Verdant Green Maiden asks Xuanzang if he wants to become a Buddha and reveals hints about his past life.
• Verdant Green Maiden receives an invitation from Wu Ruyi to go on an outing to view flowers.

Character Developments

• Verdant Green Maiden shows appreciation for Gao De's initiative and diligence in his work.
• Xuanzang demonstrates loyalty and commitment to Verdant Green Maiden, reassuring her of his dedication despite potential future changes.
• Cui'er reveals nervousness when interacting with Verdant Green Maiden, highlighting the latter's intimidating presence.

Significant Themes

• Loyalty and commitment: Xuanzang's unwavering dedication to Verdant Green Maiden, despite potential changes in his past or future.
• Trust and deception: Verdant Green Maiden's ability to see through others' intentions, contrasting with Cui'er's nervousness and Wu Ruyi's hidden purpose.

Character Interactions

• Verdant Green Maiden and Gao De: Gao De reports his findings to Verdant Green Maiden, who appreciates his initiative.
• Verdant Green Maiden and Xuanzang: They have a heart-to-heart conversation about Xuanzang's past life and his commitment to Verdant Green Maiden.
• Verdant Green Maiden and Cui'er: Cui'er invites Verdant Green Maiden on behalf of Wu Ruyi, revealing her nervousness in the latter's presence.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Verdant Green Maiden (Yu Se) invites Wu Ruyi (Princess Consort) and Li Zhi (Prince Jin) for a flower viewing trip outside Chang'an City.
• Yu Se brings Gao De, the Commander of the Bad People, as her attendant.
• Li Zhi hides inside Wu Ruyi's carriage, planning to escape with her to save their son, Prince Hong.
• Yu Se reveals Li Zhi's presence, leading to a tense confrontation.

Character Developments

• Yu Se demonstrates her acting skills and manipulation, feigning disappointment and sadness to gain Wu Ruyi's trust.
• Wu Ruyi and Li Zhi show their desperation and willingness to do anything to save their son, revealing their true emotions.

Significant Themes

• Trust and deception: Yu Se uses Wu Ruyi's trust in her to gain information and manipulate the situation, while Wu Ruyi and Li Zhi deceive Yu Se to further their plans.
• Parental love: Wu Ruyi and Li Zhi are driven by their love for their son, Prince Hong, and are willing to rebel against the Emperor to save him.

Character Interactions

• Yu Se manipulates Wu Ruyi and Li Zhi, playing on their emotions and using their love for their son against them.
• Wu Ruyi and Li Zhi interact, showing their united front and desperation to save their son, despite their initial deception of Yu Se.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qing Nü meets Li Zhi and Wu Ruyi at the flower market, where they reveal their plan to rebel against the Emperor.
• Qing Nü agrees to help them, seeking the support of the Yong City Qin Clan.
• She sends Gao De to arrange matters and leaves Chang'an, telling Xuanzang she might not return.

Character Developments

• Qing Nü: Shows strategic thinking and willingness to help Li Zhi and Wu Ruyi, understanding the political situation and the threat to the Emperor.
• Li Zhi and Wu Ruyi: Reveal their true intentions to Qing Nü, hoping to gain her support and that of the Yong City Qin Clan.
• He Qiong: Decides to leave Chang'an and continue her search for her missing loved one, now planning to go west.

Significant Themes

• Power struggles and political intrigue, with Li Zhi and Wu Ruyi attempting to overthrow the Emperor.
• The search for truth and justice, as Qing Nü seeks to protect the Emperor and expose Li Zhi's rebellion.
• The power of faith and divine intervention, as He Qiong seeks help from a Bodhisattva in the west.

Character Interactions

• Qing Nü and Li Zhi/Wu Ruyi: They manipulate each other, with Qing Nü pretending to support their rebellion while planning to expose them.
• Qing Nü and Xuanzang: They discuss Qing Nü's departure and the future of Buddhism in Chang'an.
• Qing Nü and He Qiong: They meet at the city gate, and Qing Nü learns about He Qiong's plans to leave Chang'an and continue her search.

Key Plot Points and Events

• He Qiong, a disciple searching for her missing master, meets Verdant Green Maiden.
• Verdant Green Maiden offers to help He Qiong find her master in exchange for guiding her to Lingnan.
• They embark on their journey, with He Qiong leading Verdant Green Maiden's ox, Old Yellow Ox.

Character Developments

• He Qiong: Shows dedication and loyalty to her master, displaying her resilience and determination.
• Verdant Green Maiden: Demonstrates kindness and generosity, using her resources to help He Qiong and showing interest in He Qiong's well-being.

Significant Themes

• Loyalty and devotion (He Qiong's dedication to finding her master)
• Kindness and generosity (Verdant Green Maiden's assistance to He Qiong)

Character Interactions

• He Qiong and Verdant Green Maiden form an unlikely alliance, with He Qiong leading the way and Verdant Green Maiden providing assistance and support.
• Verdant Green Maiden's interactions with He Qiong reveal her caring and nurturing nature, reminiscent of a master-student relationship.
• He Qiong's initial wariness of Verdant Green Maiden gives way to trust and appreciation for her help.

Key Plot Points and Events

• He Qiong returns to her hometown in Guangzhou with Qing Niangzi.
• The villagers welcome He Qiong warmly, giving her gifts.
• Qing Niangzi goes out for a stroll and learns about He Qiong and Li Qi from the villagers.
• He Qiong feeds Brother Ox in the courtyard, and Qing Niangzi observes them from the wall.

Character Developments

• He Qiong shows concern for Qing Niangzi's comfort in her new environment.
• Qing Niangzi demonstrates curiosity about He Qiong and Li Qi's past.
• Brother Ox displays contentment in his new surroundings.

Significant Themes

• The simplicity and honesty of the villagers.
• The bond between He Qiong and the villagers.
• Qing Niangzi's interest in understanding He Qiong and Li Qi better.

Character Interactions

• He Qiong and the villagers: They show warmth and affection towards He Qiong, reflecting her positive reputation in the community.
• He Qiong and Qing Niangzi: He Qiong shows concern for Qing Niangzi's comfort, while Qing Niangzi is curious about He Qiong's past.
• Qing Niangzi and Brother Ox: Qing Niangzi expresses mild frustration with Brother Ox's single-minded focus on eating.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Verdant Green Maiden reveals to He Qiong that she is an Immortal and that Li Qi, He Qiong's master, was merely a wisp of an Immortal's soul.
• He Qiong struggles to accept this revelation and avoids Verdant Green Maiden for several days.
• Verdant Green Maiden decides to take He Qiong with her on a trip, insisting that He Qiong accompany her despite He Qiong's initial reluctance.
• They return to Chang'an after nearly a year, and Verdant Green Maiden summons Gao De to discuss the search for Li Xuan.

Character Developments

• He Qiong: Struggles with accepting the truth about her master, Li Qi, and eventually comes to terms with it, addressing Verdant Green Maiden as "Martial Aunt."
• Verdant Green Maiden: Shows patience and understanding towards He Qiong's emotional turmoil, ultimately earning He Qiong's acceptance and respect.

Significant Themes

• Acceptance of loss and change
• The passage of time and its impact on people and places
• The bonds between master and disciple, and the enduring influence of a master's teachings

Character Interactions

• Verdant Green Maiden and He Qiong: Their relationship evolves from one of tension and avoidance to mutual understanding and acceptance, with Verdant Green Maiden acting as a mentor figure to He Qiong.
• He Qiong and Brother Ox: He Qiong finds comfort in Brother Ox's presence and company, with Brother Ox displaying concern and affection towards He Qiong.
• Verdant Green Maiden and Gao De: Their relationship remains one of trust and cooperation, with Gao De eager to serve Verdant Green Maiden and report on his progress in finding Li Xuan.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Verdant Green Maiden returns and asks Gao De for a report on recent events.
• Gao De details the activities of the Yong City Qin Clan, Li Zhi and his wife, the Wu Clan, and Dou Qingcai.
• Verdant Green Maiden decides to go to Shu to investigate Li Xuan's whereabouts herself.
• Verdant Green Maiden travels through Han Zhong and takes Golden Ox Road to Chengdu, marking several likely locations on a map provided by Gao De.

Character Developments

• Verdant Green Maiden shows understanding and patience, not blaming Gao De for failing to catch Li Xuan.
• Gao De feels shame for not fulfilling Verdant Green Maiden's orders but remains dedicated to his task.
• Verdant Green Maiden demonstrates her ability to read people's situations, revealing she can help a man with his family's illness.

Significant Themes

• The theme of loyalty and duty is shown through Gao De's dedication to Verdant Green Maiden's orders.
• Verdant Green Maiden's compassion and willingness to help those in need is highlighted.

Character Interactions

• Verdant Green Maiden and Gao De interact professionally, with Gao De reporting and Verdant Green Maiden making decisions.
• Verdant Green Maiden interacts with a man in Chengdu, showing empathy and offering help, demonstrating her approachability despite her powerful status.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Verdant Green Maiden meets a man who tells her about an Old Daoist Priest who cured his family member's illness and revealed the Erlang True Lord Temple to be fake.
• Verdant Green Maiden discovers that the prescription given by the Old Daoist Priest is not extraordinary and suspects foul play.
• Verdant Green Maiden confronts Li Xuan, the Old Daoist Priest, in a forest and accuses him of making people stop worshipping at the Erlang True Lord Temple to harm Erlang Shen.
• Verdant Green Maiden kills Li Xuan and vows to settle the score with the Heavenly People.

Character Developments

• Verdant Green Maiden shows her intelligence and determination in uncovering the truth behind the Old Daoist Priest's actions.
• Li Xuan, despite his deceptive actions, shows remorse and understanding of Verdant Green Maiden's stance but cannot apologize due to his responsibilities.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics between gods and mortals, with Verdant Green Maiden asserting that gods should not test people and that people choose their own faith.
• The consequences of manipulating people for personal gain, as seen in Li Xuan's actions and Verdant Green Maiden's subsequent punishment.

Character Interactions

• Verdant Green Maiden interacts with the man who sought the Old Daoist Priest's help, gaining information and expressing her disapproval of his impulsive actions.
• Verdant Green Maiden confronts Li Xuan, revealing her knowledge of his actions and expressing her disapproval, ultimately leading to his death.
• Verdant Green Maiden's interaction with Li Xuan highlights her resolve to hold the Heavenly People accountable for their actions.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Verdant Green Maiden, after dealing with Li Xuan, heads towards Han Zhong but is drawn to Crane Call Mountain by an unusual celestial phenomenon.
• She arrives at Tai Ping Daoist Temple, finding it deserted and in disrepair. Inside, she discovers Min Shu, the temple master, who has aged significantly.
• Min Shu reveals that Li Yuan, after returning from the ritual, attempted to divine the future using a scripture given by Li Xuan, leading to his current state and the decline of the temple.
• Min Shu shares a grim vision of the future he saw, and Verdant Green Maiden vows not to accept such a fate.

Character Developments

• Verdant Green Maiden: Shows concern for the future of the Divine Land and determination to prevent the grim vision Min Shu saw.
• Min Shu: Has aged significantly due to his attempt to divine the future. He expresses regret for his actions but accepts his fate. He has sent the temple's disciples to travel the world, ensuring the temple's legacy continues.

Significant Themes

• The consequences of meddling with forces beyond one's understanding (Min Shu's attempt to divine the future).
• The responsibility of a leader towards their people and the world (Verdant Green Maiden's determination to prevent the grim future).
• The cyclical nature of rise and fall (the decline of Tai Ping Daoist Temple).

Character Interactions

• Verdant Green Maiden and Min Shu: Their interaction reveals the depth of their relationship and the consequences of Min Shu's actions. Verdant Green Maiden's inability to save Min Shu highlights the harsh reality of their world.
• Verdant Green Maiden and the animals on Crane Call Mountain: The animals' reaction to her presence suggests she still carries an intimidating aura, possibly from her recent battle with Li Xuan.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Verdant Green Maiden (Qing Nü) buries Min Shu and names the Iron Eater Beasts on Crane Call Mountain.
• She returns to Great Ci'en Temple in Chang'an, where she finds Li Chengqian and Xuanzang.
• She learns that He Qiong has gone to tidy up her temple in Wan Nian County.
• Qing Nü summons Gao De and hands over intelligence on Li Zhi, his wife, the Wu Clan, and Prince Xia Dou Qingcai to Li Chengqian.
• Li Chengqian orders Gao De to arrest Li Zhi, his wife, the Wu Clan, and Prince Xia Dou Qingcai without alerting them.

Character Developments

• Verdant Green Maiden shows compassion towards the Iron Eater Beasts, naming them and entrusting them with guarding Crane Call Mountain.
• Li Chengqian demonstrates his capability in handling state affairs, gaining the respect of veteran ministers.
• Li Zhi and his wife, the Wu Clan, and Prince Xia Dou Qingcai are revealed to harbor treacherous designs against Li Chengqian.

Significant Themes

• The theme of loyalty and betrayal is emphasized through the actions of Li Zhi and his wife, the Wu Clan, and Prince Xia Dou Qingcai.
• Qing Nü's impartiality and lack of interference in Li Chengqian's decisions reflect her commitment to her role as a mentor and guide.

Character Interactions

• Verdant Green Maiden interacts with the Iron Eater Beasts, showing a softer side as she names them and entrusts them with guarding the mountain.
• Li Chengqian, Qing Nü, and Xuanzang discuss the intelligence provided by Gao De, leading to Li Chengqian's decision to arrest the traitors.
• Gao De shows unwavering loyalty to Qing Nü and Li Chengqian, following their orders without question.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Zhi, Wu Ruyi, and Dou Qingcai are arrested and brought to Great Ci'en Temple.
• Li Chengqian reveals that he knows about their rebellion and introduces Gao De, the Commander of the Bad People, and the Qin Clan Head, who had been secretly working for Li Chengqian.
• Verdant Green Maiden (Qing Nü) is revealed to be Yu Se, the one who had stolen Li Zhi and Wu Ruyi's fates.
• Li Chengqian sentences Li Zhi to lifelong cultivation in Great Ci'en Temple, Wu Ruyi to lifelong repentance in the Temple of Inspired Karma, and the Wu clan to exile. Dou Qingcai is stripped of his title and his clan is relocated to Chang'an.
• Li Chengqian decides to bring Li Zhi's child into the palace and raise him, potentially to inherit Prince Jin's title in the future.

Character Developments

• Li Chengqian shows mercy to his younger brother Li Zhi, sparing his life but sentencing him to lifelong cultivation.
• Qing Nü expresses guilt for stealing Li Zhi and Wu Ruyi's fates but does not regret her actions.
• Li Zhi and Wu Ruyi accept their punishments without protest, showing a sense of resignation.

Significant Themes

• Fate and destiny: Qing Nü's intervention in Li Zhi and Wu Ruyi's lives highlights the theme of fate and destiny, and the idea that one's fate can be altered.
• Mercy and justice: Li Chengqian's decision to spare Li Zhi's life but sentence him to lifelong cultivation explores the theme of mercy and justice, and the difficulty of balancing the two.

Character Interactions

• Li Chengqian and Li Zhi: Despite Li Zhi's rebellion, Li Chengqian shows mercy to his younger brother, highlighting their sibling bond.
• Qing Nü and Li Zhi/Wu Ruyi: Qing Nü's revelation that she is Yu Se leads to a tense confrontation with Li Zhi and Wu Ruyi, but she ultimately shows them mercy by sparing their lives.
• Li Chengqian and Qing Nü: Li Chengqian seeks Qing Nü's opinion on what to do with Li Zhi's child, showing that he values her input and respects her wisdom.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Chengqian decides to let Li Hong inherit Prince Jin's title, surprising Shao Dian Qing Nü.
• Shao Dian Qing Nü leaves Chang'an, entrusting Li Chengqian and Gao De to maintain balance between the throne and the Bad People.
• Li Hong, Li Zhi's son, disappears mysteriously from Prince Jin's Manor.
• Li Zhi is tonsured and given the Dharma name 'Awakened Dust' by Xuanzang at Great Ci'en Temple.
• Verdant Green Maiden returns to Mount Tai after over a year, finding her disciples waiting for her.

Character Developments

• Li Chengqian shows maturity and decisiveness in handling political matters, gaining Shao Dian Qing Nü's approval.
• Shao Dian Qing Nü demonstrates her wisdom and foresight, guiding Li Chengqian and Gao De while preparing to leave Chang'an.
• Li Zhi accepts his fate and asks Xuanzang to keep him informed about his wife and son's safety.
• Verdant Green Maiden's disciples express their concern and frustration over her prolonged absence.

Significant Themes

• Power and Responsibility: Li Chengqian's growing understanding of his role as emperor and the responsibilities that come with it.
• Trust and Loyalty: The relationship between Li Chengqian, Gao De, and Shao Dian Qing Nü, highlighting the importance of trust and loyalty in their dynamic.
• Redemption and Acceptance: Li Zhi's acceptance of his punishment and his request for news about his family, showing a level of redemption and understanding of his actions.

Character Interactions

• Li Chengqian and Shao Dian Qing Nü discuss the future of the Bad People and the balance of power between the emperor and the Commander.
• Li Zhi and Xuanzang interact, with Li Zhi asking Xuanzang to keep him informed about his family's safety.
• Verdant Green Maiden reunites with her disciples, who express their frustration over her prolonged absence.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Verdant Green Maiden returns to Jade Emperor Peak after a year, finding her disciples waiting for her.
• She scolds them for wasting time and sends them to their respective sacred grounds.
• Hong Luan leaves for Kunlun Mountain, and Verdant Green Maiden sends Saro back to Guanyin.
• Verdant Green Maiden decides to take He Qiong on a journey, intending to give her a gift.

Character Developments

• Verdant Green Maiden shows concern for her disciples' growth and independence.
• Hong Luan demonstrates understanding and acceptance of Verdant Green Maiden's decisions.
• Saro remains loyal and respectful to Verdant Green Maiden despite her impending return to Guanyin.
• He Qiong shows curiosity and eagerness to accompany Verdant Green Maiden on her journey.

Significant Themes

• Growth and independence of disciples.
• Verdant Green Maiden's role as a mentor and guide.
• The passage of time and the inevitability of separation.

Character Interactions

• Verdant Green Maiden interacts with each of her disciples, sending them on their way with words of encouragement and advice.
• Hong Luan and Verdant Green Maiden share a moment of understanding and acceptance.
• Verdant Green Maiden and He Qiong begin a journey together, hinting at a deeper connection and shared experiences.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Verdant Green Maiden gives He Qiong the second lotus from the Dragon Pearl.
• Di Renjie, the future famous official, meets Verdant Green Maiden on Mount Tai and asks about the legendary female Master.
• Verdant Green Maiden, fearing Di Renjie might recognize her, quickly leaves Mount Tai with He Qiong and Old Yellow Ox.
• Verdant Green Maiden, He Qiong, and Old Yellow Ox travel through Qi Land, with Verdant Green Maiden planning to take He Qiong to Minzhong.
• Di Renjie appears again, approaching Verdant Green Maiden.

Character Developments

• Verdant Green Maiden remains mysterious and elusive, avoiding recognition and potential responsibilities.
• He Qiong continues to follow and learn from Verdant Green Maiden.
• Di Renjie demonstrates his determination and persistence in seeking knowledge and instruction.

Significant Themes

• The pursuit of knowledge and learning.
• Avoidance of responsibility and recognition.
• The relationship between mentors and disciples.

Character Interactions

• Verdant Green Maiden and He Qiong's mentor-disciple relationship deepens as they continue to travel together.
• Verdant Green Maiden and Di Renjie's brief interaction highlights Di Renjie's determination and Verdant Green Maiden's evasiveness.
• He Qiong and Old Yellow Ox's banter shows their growing familiarity and camaraderie.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Di Renjie, a scholar, meets Verdant Green Maiden and He Qiong in a city.
• Verdant Green Maiden ignores Di Renjie's attempts to engage her in conversation.
• Di Renjie follows them out of the city, running for over a hundred li (around 50 kilometers) before collapsing.
• Verdant Green Maiden checks on Di Renjie and uses items from the Dragon Pearl to revive him.
• Di Renjie asks Verdant Green Maiden to take him as her disciple.

Character Developments

• Verdant Green Maiden: Shows disregard for Di Renjie's attempts to engage her, but ultimately helps him when he collapses.
• Di Renjie: Persistent in pursuing Verdant Green Maiden and seeking her guidance, showing determination and resilience.

Significant Themes

• Persistence: Di Renjie's relentless pursuit of Verdant Green Maiden despite her initial disregard.
• Mentorship: Di Renjie's desire to learn from Verdant Green Maiden, and her eventual consideration of taking him as a disciple.

Character Interactions

• Verdant Green Maiden and Di Renjie: Initially ignore each other, but Di Renjie's persistence leads to a potential mentor-student relationship.
• He Qiong and Verdant Green Maiden: He Qiong follows Verdant Green Maiden's orders and shows concern for her well-being.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Di Renjie discovers Verdant Green Maiden's identity and seeks her as his master.
• Verdant Green Maiden agrees to answer Di Renjie's questions for a month.
• Di Renjie follows Verdant Green Maiden as she travels south, asking her questions daily.
• After a month, Verdant Green Maiden and Di Renjie part ways in Jiangdu.
• Verdant Green Maiden and He Qiong arrive in Jiangning, where they stay for half a month.
• Verdant Green Maiden discovers her former residence in Jiangning has been torn down and investigates.

Character Developments

• Di Renjie: Shows determination and sincerity in seeking Verdant Green Maiden as his master. He demonstrates a strong desire for knowledge and growth.
• Verdant Green Maiden: Shows reluctance in accepting Di Renjie as her disciple but agrees to answer his questions. She displays a sense of nostalgia and wistfulness upon seeing the changes in Jiangning.
• He Qiong: Shows curiosity and interest in Jiangning, enjoying her time there.

Significant Themes

• The pursuit of knowledge and growth.
• The passage of time and the changes it brings.
• The decline of once-great families and institutions.

Character Interactions

• Di Renjie and Verdant Green Maiden: Di Renjie seeks Verdant Green Maiden's guidance, and she agrees to answer his questions. Their interaction is one of teacher and student.
• Verdant Green Maiden and He Qiong: They travel together, with Verdant Green Maiden showing indulgence and care toward He Qiong.
• Verdant Green Maiden and the Jiangning Aristocrats: Verdant Green Maiden visits the aristocratic families of Jiangning, seeking information about her former residence.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Verdant Green Maiden and He Qiong travel to Kuaiji Commandery, where Verdant Green Maiden reveals she has the original Orchid Pavilion Preface.
• They visit Wang Xizhi's tomb, and Verdant Green Maiden shares that she was present at the historic gathering.
• After half a month, they journey to Central Min, eventually reaching an abandoned village where Verdant Green Maiden suggests He Qiong live and practice medicine.

Character Developments

• Verdant Green Maiden: Shows nostalgia for her past and a desire to help others, as seen in her visit to Wang Xizhi's tomb and her decision to help He Qiong establish a life in the abandoned village.
• He Qiong: Demonstrates curiosity and a willingness to learn, as well as a growing understanding of Verdant Green Maiden's intentions.

Significant Themes

• The passage of time and the impermanence of human life and achievements, as exemplified by the abandoned village and Wang Xizhi's tomb.
• The importance of helping others and making a positive impact on the world, as shown through Verdant Green Maiden's actions.

Character Interactions

• Verdant Green Maiden and He Qiong: Their relationship deepens as they travel together, with Verdant Green Maiden acting as a mentor and guide to He Qiong.
• Verdant Green Maiden and Wang Xizhi (in memory): Verdant Green Maiden reflects on her past and the historic figures she has known, such as Wang Xizhi.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Verdant Green Maiden (VGM) helps He Qiong (HQ) establish a village and heal its people.
• VGM ensures peace in the Min Lands by eliminating bandits.
• VGM discovers that HQ is the Jiao Dragon, who brought calamity to the village in the past.
• VGM decides to leave the village, and HQ promises to continue helping the people.

Character Developments

• Verdant Green Maiden: Shows kindness and compassion by helping the villagers and ensuring their safety. She also displays a soft heart beneath her sharp tongue.
• He Qiong: Grows into her role as a healer, gaining the villagers' trust and respect. She demonstrates determination to continue helping others after VGM's departure.

Significant Themes

• Kindness and compassion: VGM's actions show that even cultivators should care about the well-being of ordinary people.
• Redemption: HQ's return to the village and her efforts to help its people suggest that even those who have caused harm can make amends.
• The power of community: The villagers' support for HQ and their willingness to learn medicine indicate that collective effort can improve a community's well-being.

Character Interactions

• Verdant Green Maiden and He Qiong: Their relationship evolves from teacher and student to close companions. VGM guides and protects HQ, while HQ learns from VGM and strives to live up to her expectations.
• Verdant Green Maiden and Tian (Damn Heaven): Their interactions reveal VGM's kindness and Tian's growing understanding of her. Despite their initial conflict, they share a mutual respect.
• Verdant Green Maiden and the villagers: VGM's interactions with the villagers demonstrate her concern for their well-being and her desire to see them thrive. The villagers, in turn, come to see her as a respected figure.