Chapter Summaries

• Key Plot Points: The author announces the book's release on paid shelves, expressing gratitude for the readers' support and promising to release more chapters.
• Character Developments: No character developments in this chapter as it's an author's note.
• Significant Themes: Gratitude, reader support, and the author's commitment to their work.
• Character Interactions: N/A (author's note, no character interactions).

Key Plot Points and Events

• Cheng Buzheng, a Qi Refining Fifth Layer cultivator, is approached by a Foundation Establishment Realm Martial Uncle, Jiang Fugui.
• Jiang Fugui requests Cheng Buzheng to refine a Dharma Pill, a dangerous task with a high risk of damaging one's Divine Sense.
• Cheng Buzheng initially plans to evade Jiang but later decides to face him.
• Jiang Fugui offers three high-grade Spirit Pearls in exchange for the Dharma Pill refinement.

Character Developments

• Cheng Buzheng: Initially hesitant and evasive, he later decides to confront Jiang Fugui, showing courage and determination.
• Jiang Fugui: Shows patience and understanding towards Cheng Buzheng's reluctance, indicating he values the task and is willing to negotiate.

Significant Themes

• Risk and Reward: The Dharma Pill refinement carries significant risks but offers substantial rewards, reflecting the theme of risk-taking for potential gain.
• Power Dynamics: The interaction between Jiang Fugui and Cheng Buzheng highlights the power dynamics within the sect, with Jiang's higher cultivation level giving him leverage.

Character Interactions

• Cheng Buzheng and Jiang Fugui: Their interaction is marked by caution and negotiation, with Jiang Fugui trying to persuade Cheng Buzheng to undertake the risky task, and Cheng Buzheng initially trying to avoid it.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jiang Gu, a Foundation Establishment cultivator, visits Cheng Buzheng to commission a Spirit Thunder Dharma Pill.
• Jiang Gu uses pressure and a carrot-and-stick approach to ensure Cheng Buzheng agrees to the task.
• Cheng Buzheng is given a high-grade Spirit Pearl as an advance reward and permission to extract some Thunder Essence for a trial run.

Character Developments

• Cheng Buzheng: Shows caution, prudence, and resilience under pressure. He maintains respect for Jiang Gu despite his resentment.
• Jiang Gu: Demonstrates his power and influence as a Foundation Establishment cultivator. He uses a carrot-and-stick approach to manipulate Cheng Buzheng.

Significant Themes

• The power gap between cultivation stages (Qi Refining vs. Foundation Establishment).
• The importance of a senior's face and strength in the Cultivation World.
• The manipulation and exploitation of juniors by seniors.

Character Interactions

• Cheng Buzheng and Jiang Gu: Their interaction is marked by power dynamics, manipulation, and mutual understanding of their roles. Jiang Gu uses his power to pressure Cheng Buzheng, while Cheng Buzheng maintains respect despite his resentment.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Cheng Buzheng, now at Qi Refining Level 7, prepares to refine the Spirit Thunder Dharma Pill.
• He deduces the alchemical formula for the Spirit Thunder Dharma Pill using the Small Plate, consuming 220 Spiritual Power Value points.
• He masters the formula and decides to attempt refining the pill, estimating a 98% chance of success.

Character Developments

• Cheng Buzheng's confidence in his alchemical skills grows after successfully deducing the Spirit Thunder Dharma Pill formula.
• He reflects on the benefits and drawbacks of alchemical pills and the advantages of (Extreme Edition) pills for his rapid advancement.

Significant Themes

• The importance of survival and personal safety in Cheng Buzheng's cultivation journey.
• The benefits and drawbacks of alchemical pills, highlighting the need for careful use and control.

Character Interactions

• Cheng Buzheng interacts with no other characters in this chapter, focusing solely on his own cultivation and reflections.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Cheng Buzheng visits Martial Uncle Jiang to deliver the refined Spirit Thunder Dharma Pill.
• Martial Uncle Jiang gives Cheng Buzheng one high-grade Spirit Pearl but says the rest are with Martial Uncle Qu.
• Martial Uncle Jiang reveals that the Secret Realm will close for sixty years after the next Seed Trial.

Character Developments

• Cheng Buzheng shows resilience and patience in dealing with Martial Uncle Jiang's trickery.
• Cheng Buzheng reflects on his cultivation plans and decides to participate in the next Seed Trial due to the sudden change in the Secret Realm's closing schedule.

Significant Themes

• The importance of patience and solid foundation in cultivation.
• The ruthless and competitive nature of the cultivation world.
• The consequences of sudden changes in plans.

Character Interactions

• Cheng Buzheng and Martial Uncle Jiang's interaction is tense, with Cheng Buzheng showing respect while inwardly cursing Jiang Gu's shamelessness.
• Cheng Buzheng's internal monologue reveals his determination and resourcefulness in the face of adversity.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Cheng Buzheng creates two advanced Soul Puppets, with the Heart-Mind Restriction as their greatest achievement.
• He visits Old Man Nan at the Earth Fire Chamber, where they share a drink and conversation.
• Cheng Buzheng studies artifact forging and the Purple Crystal Bracelet spell, aiming to create a powerful magic tool using the Heart-Mind Restriction principle.
• He decides to go into full closed-door meditation if he can't find a Purple Soul Stone within six months.

Character Developments

• Cheng Buzheng: He continues to refine his Soul Puppets and studies artifact forging, showing dedication and patience in his pursuits. He also maintains a friendly relationship with Old Man Nan.
• Old Man Nan: He remains in his post at the Earth Fire Chamber, enjoying his books and the occasional visit from Cheng Buzheng. He shows concern for Cheng Buzheng's well-being despite his gruff demeanor.

Significant Themes

• Patience and Dedication: Cheng Buzheng's relentless pursuit of refining his Soul Puppets and studying artifact forging exemplifies these themes.
• Friendship: The bond between Cheng Buzheng and Old Man Nan highlights the importance of friendship and camaraderie, even between individuals of different generations and cultivation levels.

Character Interactions

• Cheng Buzheng and Old Man Nan: Their interactions are filled with friendly banter and mutual respect. They share a drink and conversation, with Old Man Nan showing concern for Cheng Buzheng's well-being despite his gruff exterior.
• Cheng Buzheng and Jiang Fugui: Though not present in this chapter, their friendship is implied through Jiang Fugui's occasional visits to the Earth Fire Chamber for gatherings.

Key Plot Points and Events

• A mysterious man in black is refining a Blood Sha Corpse using a Blood Refining Formation, requiring cultivator spirit blood.
• The man in black plans to catch up with an old friend once his Blood Sha Corpse is successfully refined.
• The White Cloud Sect's Secret Realm will be sealed for sixty years after the 'Seed Trial' five years from now.
• Jiang Fugui brings a Purple Soul Stone to Cheng Buzheng, fulfilling his request.

Character Developments

• The man in black shows no remorse or disgust while handling the gruesome task of refining the Blood Sha Corpse, indicating his cold-blooded nature.
• Cheng Buzheng reveals his determination to reach Qi Refining Eighth or Ninth Layer within five years to obtain a Foundation Establishment Pill.
• Jiang Fugui demonstrates his loyalty and friendship by finding the Purple Soul Stone for Cheng Buzheng.

Significant Themes

• Ambition and determination (Cheng Buzheng's pursuit of Foundation Establishment)
• Friendship and loyalty (Jiang Fugui's help in finding the Purple Soul Stone)
• Ruthlessness and disregard for life (the man in black's actions)

Character Interactions

• The man in black interacts with no one in this chapter, only speaking to himself.
• Cheng Buzheng and Jiang Fugui discuss the 'Seed Trial' and the Secret Realm's sealing, showcasing their friendship and trust in each other.
• Cheng Buzheng thanks Jiang Fugui for finding the Purple Soul Stone, further strengthening their bond.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Cheng Buzheng creates a Heart-Mind Dharma Eye, a special spell technique for long-distance control of Soul Puppets.
• He tests the range of the Heart-Mind Dharma Eye by sending a Soul Puppet (an immortal-boned, sage-like elder) underground to the outskirts of White Cloud City, finding the maximum range to be around 3000 li (approximately 1500 km).
• Cheng Buzheng sends another Soul Puppet (an old man) to deliver a Storage Bag containing alchemical pills to Jiang Fugui.

Character Developments

• Cheng Buzheng demonstrates his skill in creating unique spell techniques and controlling multiple Soul Puppets simultaneously.
• He shows caution in using his Soul Puppets, valuing their strength and rarity.

Significant Themes

• The power and limitations of Soul Puppets, and the cost of creating them.
• Cheng Buzheng's strategic thinking and resourcefulness in managing his assets.

Character Interactions

• Cheng Buzheng interacts with his Soul Puppets, treating them as extensions of himself.
• He indirectly interacts with Jiang Fugui through the old man Soul Puppet.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Cheng Buzheng plans to enter the Secret Realm for seclusion after perfecting his Soul Puppet and acquiring a Purple Soul Stone.
• He attempts to use his No. 2 puppet tool for alchemy but fails due to the puppet's lack of fine control.
• Cheng Buzheng successfully refines the required pills for the sect task and his personal use.
• Old Man Nan warns Cheng Buzheng about Evil Cultivators from Green Wood City appearing near White Cloud City.

Character Developments

• Cheng Buzheng continues to improve his cultivation and skills, perfecting his Soul Puppet and refining pills successfully.
• Old Man Nan shows concern for Cheng Buzheng's safety and shares valuable information about the current situation.

Significant Themes

• The importance of fine control in immortal arts and the limitations of Soul Puppets at Cheng Buzheng's current stage.
• The threat posed by the remnants of the Blood Refining Sect and their evil practices.

Character Interactions

• Cheng Buzheng interacts with Old Man Nan, who provides him with crucial information and expresses concern for his well-being.
• Cheng Buzheng's puppet tool, No. 2, is introduced, showcasing its capabilities and limitations.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Cheng Buzheng meets Old Man Nan at the Earth Fire Chamber.
• They discuss the Blood Spirit Array and its connection to the Blood Refining Sect's Blood Refining Formation.
• Old Man Nan reveals the history and downfall of the Blood Refining Sect due to their unique formation and techniques.
• Cheng Buzheng decides to focus on safe and stable cultivation, avoiding external troubles.
• After drinking, Cheng Buzheng teases Old Man Nan about his travelogue, 'Travels of Little Nan.'
• Cheng Buzheng leaves for a closed-door meditation session, securing his belongings and setting up a warning formation in his wooden hut.

Character Developments

• Cheng Buzheng: Shows curiosity and intelligence in discussing cultivation matters. He becomes more determined to cultivate safely and stably after learning about the Blood Refining Sect's fate. He also displays a playful side when teasing Old Man Nan.
• Old Man Nan: Reveals his extensive knowledge about the cultivation world's history. He shows pride in his past but also has a playful, competitive side when drinking with Cheng Buzheng.

Significant Themes

• The cruelty and danger of the cultivation world.
• The importance of historical knowledge and understanding the past to navigate the present.
• The tension between stability and adventure in cultivation.

Character Interactions

• Cheng Buzheng and Old Man Nan: They engage in a lively discussion about cultivation history, leading to a drinking bout that reveals their playful sides. Their interaction highlights the mentorship aspect of their relationship, with Old Man Nan sharing his wisdom and Cheng Buzheng showing respect while also teasing him.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Cheng Buzheng, an old Daoist, sells his stall in White Cloud City and buys a cracked small seal from another vendor.
• He uses a disguise spell and leaves the city, then digs underground to travel swiftly to a canyon in the southeastern part of the Jin Kingdom.
• He enters a secret realm within the canyon, where he plans to find Wang Ren.

Character Developments

• Cheng Buzheng is revealed to be a skilled and cunning cultivator, using disguises and subterfuge to achieve his goals.
• Wang Ren, though not present, is shown to be a dedicated and resourceful cultivator who has prepared a secret realm for closed-door meditation.

Significant Themes

• Deception and Disguise: Cheng Buzheng uses these tactics to achieve his goals, highlighting the importance of cunning and adaptability in the cultivation world.
• Preparation and Resourcefulness: Wang Ren's preparation of a secret realm shows the importance of foresight and planning in cultivation.

Character Interactions

• Cheng Buzheng interacts with the Middle-aged Man, negotiating the sale of the cracked small seal and displaying his shrewdness.
• Cheng Buzheng uses a puppet to help him navigate the secret realm, showing his reliance on tools and resources.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Cheng Buzheng discovers a secret chamber with a teleportation array and a restriction.
• He identifies the restriction as a valuable treasure trove of knowledge.
• Cheng Buzheng activates the teleportation array using Spirit Stones.
• He tests the array by teleporting a Grey-haired Rabbit to the mortal realm.

Character Developments

• Cheng Buzheng demonstrates his knowledge of restrictions and artifacts, showing growth in his understanding and skills.

Significant Themes

• The value of discarded or broken artifacts and the potential wealth hidden within.
• The power of knowledge and understanding in cultivation.

Character Interactions

• Cheng Buzheng interacts with the Grey-haired Rabbit, showing a moment of compassion before sending it to the mortal realm.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Cheng Buzheng arrives in the Secret Realm's teleportation room.
• He discovers a large, functioning teleportation array and a broken one.
• He finds Wang Ren's living traces and decides not to explore further due to danger.
• Cheng Buzheng attempts to teleport out using a Tool Puppet, then himself, successfully.
• He starts cultivating in the Secret Realm, facing pressure from abundant spirit energy.

Character Developments

• Cheng Buzheng demonstrates caution and resourcefulness in exploring the Secret Realm.
• He shows determination and willingness to take risks, attempting to teleport out.
• Jiang Siling reveals her business acumen and manipulation of fellow disciples for her benefit.

Significant Themes

• The value and danger of the Secret Realm's resources.
• The consequences of curiosity and exploration.
• Manipulation and self-interest in relationships.

Character Interactions

• Cheng Buzheng interacts with his Tool Puppet, demonstrating trust in his creation.
• Jiang Fugui and Jiang Siling's sibling interaction shows their differing personalities and goals.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jiang Fugui visits Jiang Siling to borrow the Deep Sea Spirit Pearl.
• Jiang Fugui deduces that Cheng Buzheng coerced Cheng Buzheng into refining the Spirit Thunder Dharma Pill without proper compensation.
• Jiang Siling decides to investigate the matter further by checking the recordings from the protective array in their grandfather's courtyard.

Character Developments

• Jiang Fugui demonstrates his sharp deductive skills, earning the nickname 'Sherlock Holmes of the Cultivation World'.
• Jiang Siling shows concern for Cheng Buzheng's well-being and is determined to compensate him if her brother's deduction is correct.

Significant Themes

• The importance of trust and fairness in relationships, as seen in the exploitation of Cheng Buzheng.
• The power dynamics within the sect, with Jiang Siling and Jiang Fugui having the authority to investigate and rectify the situation.

Character Interactions

• Jiang Fugui and Jiang Siling's sibling bond is shown through their easy banter and mutual respect.
• Jiang Siling's protective nature is evident in her concern for Cheng Buzheng and her determination to investigate the matter.
• The relationship between Jiang Fugui and Cheng Buzheng is one of friendship and mutual respect, with Jiang Fugui feeling guilty for not being able to help his friend.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jiang Siling and Jiang Fugui watch Cheng Buzheng through a light screen in the main hall.
• Jiang Siling asks Jiang Fugui to deliver a storage bag to Cheng Buzheng, but he suggests she go herself.
• Cheng Buzheng returns to the sect after a year in closed-door meditation and completes his tasks.
• He finds a jade slip from Jiang Siling apologizing for her grandfather's actions and inviting him to meet her.

Character Developments

• Jiang Siling shows remorse for her grandfather's actions and takes responsibility by trying to apologize to Cheng Buzheng.
• Cheng Buzheng remains cautious and low-key, avoiding potential trouble from fellow disciples and martial uncles.

Significant Themes

• The consequences of one's actions and the importance of taking responsibility (shown through Jiang Siling's actions).
• The dangers of cultivating in the sect and the need for caution (shown through Cheng Buzheng's actions).

Character Interactions

• Jiang Siling and Jiang Fugui discuss how to apologize to Cheng Buzheng.
• Cheng Buzheng interacts with Old Man Nan, completing his tasks and receiving his stipend.
• Cheng Buzheng reads Jiang Siling's letter, deciding to avoid potential trouble by returning to the Secret Realm.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Cheng Buzheng meets Nan Ye, who invites him to a mission.
• They meet at Immortal Flavor Restaurant, where Gao Li reveals a Barrier-Breaking Pill and a mission to kill Frost Crocodiles for a share of an ancient cultivator's Cave Mansion.
• Cheng Buzheng, along with Nan Ye, Xu Shi, and Wang Min, agrees to the mission.

Character Developments

• Cheng Buzheng shows pragmatism and ambition, agreeing to the mission for the Barrier-Breaking Pill despite potential risks.
• Gao Li displays leadership and generosity, offering a substantial reward for the mission and trusting his companions.

Significant Themes

• Ambition and pragmatism: Cheng Buzheng's eagerness for the Barrier-Breaking Pill leads him to accept a potentially dangerous mission.
• Trust and companionship: Gao Li's trust in his companions and their willingness to help him despite the risks.

Character Interactions

• Cheng Buzheng and Nan Ye: Nan Ye invites Cheng Buzheng to the mission, and they travel together to meet Gao Li.
• Cheng Buzheng and Gao Li: Cheng Buzheng is initially hesitant about the mission but ultimately agrees due to the Barrier-Breaking Pill.
• The group (Cheng Buzheng, Nan Ye, Xu Shi, Wang Min, and Gao Li): They discuss and plan the mission together, displaying camaraderie and trust.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The group leaves White Cloud City using Gao Li's Mid-grade flying magic tool.
• Nan Ye and Wang Min display affection, making Cheng Buzheng uncomfortable.
• Cheng Buzheng asks Gao Li about increasing Foundation Establishment chances.
• Gao Li shares insights on Foundation Establishment methods and odds for different Spiritual Root types.
• Gao Li invites Cheng Buzheng and Xu Shi to explore with him, but they decline due to low cultivation levels.

Character Developments

• Cheng Buzheng: Shows envy of Gao Li's flying tool, later expresses disinterest in watching Nan Ye and Wang Min's affectionate display.
• Gao Li: Reveals knowledge about Foundation Establishment methods and odds, invites others to explore but respects their decisions.
• Nan Ye and Wang Min: Display their close relationship, with Wang Min hinting at wanting a flying tool.
• Xu Shi: Shows eagerness to improve his cultivation before considering exploration.

Significant Themes

• The importance of cultivation level and Spiritual Root type for Foundation Establishment.
• The value and rarity of flying magic tools.
• The influence of relationships and personal goals on decision-making.

Character Interactions

• Cheng Buzheng and Gao Li: Cheng seeks information from Gao Li, who shares knowledge but respects Cheng's decision not to explore.
• Nan Ye and Wang Min: Display affection, with Wang Min hinting at wanting a flying tool.
• Xu Shi and Gao Li: Xu Shi declines Gao Li's invitation to explore, prioritizing cultivation instead.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The group arrives at the Li River, which originates from the Endless Sea, carrying Spirit Energy in its water.
• They plan to capture Frost Crocodiles for their mission.
• Gao Li sets up a Small Four Symbols Trap Array on the beach to trap the Frost Crocodiles.

Character Developments

• Wang Min shows her eagerness and determination to complete the mission.
• Nan Ye displays his protective attitude towards Wang Min.
• Cheng Buzheng remains calculative and cautious, agreeing to the mission for the Barrier-Breaking Pill.

Significant Themes

• Teamwork and Trust: The group works together, with each member contributing to the mission's success.
• Caution and Vigilance: Gao Li emphasizes the importance of being vigilant, even in seemingly safe situations.
• Power Dynamics: Cheng Buzheng's actions reveal his awareness of the power dynamics within the group.

Character Interactions

• Wang Min and Nan Ye's relationship is further emphasized, with Nan Ye showing his dedication to protecting her.
• Cheng Buzheng and Xu Shi have differing views on Nan Ye's offer to take a smaller share, with Xu Shi showing displeasure.
• Gao Li maintains a calm and collected demeanor, guiding the group and ensuring their safety.

Key Plot Points and Events

• A group of thirteen Frost Crocodiles emerges from the river, varying in size from one to two zhang (around 3-6 meters).
• Five cultivators, led by Gao Li, appear and attack the Frost Crocodiles using their Magic Tools.
• One zhang-long Frost Crocodile is killed by Nan Ye, enraging the two zhang-long leader.
• The leader uses an innate spell, firing six crystal-like arrows that shatter one of Cheng Buzheng's defensive shields.
• Cheng Buzheng and Gao Li work together to block the leader, while Xu Shi and the Nan Ye couple kill the remaining smaller Frost Crocodiles.
• The group focuses their attacks on the leader's forehead, breaking its scale, and eventually killing it.

Character Developments

• Cheng Buzheng demonstrates his skills and strategic thinking, using defensive shields and a Li Fire Sword to combat the Frost Crocodile leader.
• Gao Li shows bravery and concern for his teammates, taking the initiative to block the leader's advance and urging everyone to hurry.
• Nan Ye and his wife, Wang Min, work together efficiently, using their Flying Sword to kill smaller Frost Crocodiles.

Significant Themes

• Teamwork and coordination: The group's success relies on their combined efforts and strategic planning.
• Adaptability: Cheng Buzheng adapts his strategy when faced with the Frost Crocodile's innate spell.
• Perseverance: Despite the challenges posed by the Frost Crocodile's hard scales and powerful innate spell, the group persists until victory.

Character Interactions

• Cheng Buzheng and Gao Li form a temporary alliance, working together to block the Frost Crocodile leader.
• Nan Ye and Wang Min demonstrate a strong partnership, fighting side by side against the smaller Frost Crocodiles.
• The group communicates effectively, with Gao Li and Cheng Buzheng providing updates and issuing commands to keep everyone informed and focused.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The group processes Frost Crocodiles on the beach, extracting valuable materials.
• They dive underwater to explore a cave mansion, encountering another Frost Crocodile inside.
• Cheng Buzheng uses his Magic Tools to attack the Frost Crocodile, while the group works together to defend against its innate spell, Crystal Arrow.

Character Developments

• Wang Min demonstrates her knowledge of processing demonic beasts and her attention to detail.
• Cheng Buzheng shows his ability to use multiple Magic Tools simultaneously and his strategic thinking in positioning himself against the Frost Crocodile.
• Gao Li, Wang Min, and Xu Shi display their teamwork and coordination in casting defensive shields in sync.

Significant Themes

• Teamwork and coordination are essential for overcoming challenges.
• Attention to detail and careful planning can maximize resources and efficiency.
• Cheng Buzheng's strategic thinking and adaptability are crucial in battle.

Character Interactions

• Wang Min provides guidance to the others in processing the Frost Crocodiles, showing her expertise and concern for their success.
• Gao Li leads the group in exploring the underwater cave mansion and initiates the attack on the Frost Crocodile.
• Cheng Buzheng, Wang Min, and Xu Shi work together to defend against the Frost Crocodile's innate spell, demonstrating their trust and reliance on each other.