Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zong Shen explores a Bone-Burial Bunker, discovering two skeletons: a human Warrior (Hugh Ferguson) and a demon (Gilt Agular), who died fighting each other.
• He finds a storage ring containing Hugh's diary and personal belongings, including an engagement ring with a quest attached.
• The diary reveals that Hugh was a Heavy Wall Legion warrior who fought against demons, and his fiancée, Aureona, was in Ryan Town.

Character Developments

• Zong Shen: Shows curiosity and interest in ancient quests and human legions from the previous era.
• Hugh Ferguson: A dedicated warrior who loved his fiancée, Aureona. He fought against demons and was willing to postpone his wedding for the war.

Significant Themes

• War and its impact on personal lives: Hugh's love story is interrupted by the war, reflecting the theme of war's disruption of personal lives and relationships.
• The passage of time: The skeletons and decayed items emphasize the passage of time and the impermanence of life and possessions.

Character Interactions

• Though no direct interactions occur in this chapter, the diary entries reveal Hugh's love for Aureona and his dedication to his duty as a warrior. His final battle with Gilt Agular shows the brutal nature of war and the consequences of conflicting loyalties.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Resistance Army, led by Hugh Ferguson, is fighting against demons in Azshara.
• The demons are constructing a 'Tower of the Undead' and a 'Siege Engine' infused with demonic power.
• The Resistance Army plans a final assault, with Ferguson's squad as the vanguard.
• The diary ends abruptly, suggesting a tragic outcome for the Resistance Army.
• Zong Shen finds Ferguson's diary and skeleton in the Bone-Burial Bunker, along with a demon's skeleton and 'Eye of the End' components.

Character Developments

• Hugh Ferguson: A captain in the Resistance Army, dedicated to fighting demons and protecting his people. He fulfills his promise to reach Azshara but likely perishes in the final battle.
• Zong Shen: The protagonist, who discovers Ferguson's diary and decides to honor Ferguson's wish by burying his ashes in Ryan Town.

Significant Themes

• The struggle against demonic forces and the cost of war.
• The passage of time and the preservation of the past (represented by the ruins of Ryan Town and Ferguson's diary).
• The tension between human and demon, and the possibility of mutual destruction.

Character Interactions

• Ferguson's interactions with his squad and the Resistance Army are mentioned but not detailed.
• Zong Shen interacts with Zoe Babbitt, his assistant, to collect components and explore the bunker.
• There's no direct interaction between Ferguson and Zong Shen, as they are separated by ten thousand years.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The protagonist, Wang Lin, discovers a free 7-day membership offer on Qidian for the novel "Hundred Phoenixes Director" by searching for "Hundred Phoenixes Director" and "Director" in the search bar.
• He claims the offer, showing his resourcefulness and willingness to seize opportunities.

Character Developments

• Wang Lin demonstrates his growing understanding of the cultivation world's resources and benefits, showing initiative in claiming the free membership.

Significant Themes

• Opportunism: Wang Lin seizes the opportunity to gain a free membership, showcasing his adaptability and resourcefulness in the cultivation world.
• Cultivation Resources: The chapter highlights the importance of resources in cultivation, with Wang Lin actively seeking out benefits to aid his cultivation journey.

Character Interactions

• Although there are no interactions with other characters in this chapter, Wang Lin's internal monologue reveals his thought process and motivations, providing insight into his character.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zong Shen explores the Land of Buried Bones, finding warehouses with supplies and a blueprint for the 'Eye of the End.'
• He discovers a Rune Door with a puzzle-based lock, which he bypasses using brute force.
• He navigates a passageway filled with illuminated skulls and arrives at a vast underground fortress.
• The fortress contains the [Tower of the Dead], where he finds a Condemner's Execution Dagger and a command insignia.
• He merges two [Demon Lord's Decree] he possesses, gaining partial authority over the Land of Buried Bones.

Character Developments

• Zong Shen demonstrates his strength and strategic thinking, navigating the dungeon and solving puzzles.
• Zoe Babbitt and Colby show interest in studying the Rune Door and other artifacts.
• Jacques Picard, the adventurer ghost, is intrigued by the challenges they face.

Significant Themes

• The power of brute force versus puzzle-solving.
• The value of studying and preserving ancient technology and artifacts.
• The consequences of merging powerful artifacts (Demon Lord's Decrees).

Character Interactions

• Zong Shen, Zoe Babbitt, and Colby work together to explore the dungeon, with Zoe and Colby showing interest in studying the artifacts they find.
• Zong Shen communicates with the Strategy Module to gain insights into the dungeon's mechanisms and history.
• The distant interaction between Jonathan and the bandits hints at the wider consequences of Zong Shen's actions.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Duke Jonathan survives an assassination attempt by elite assassins from the Shadow Poison Assassin Alliance.
• He realizes the true nature of the "bandits" and the Land of Buried Bones, understanding that he's been chosen as a "flame of the old era" by the Lord System.
• Zong Shen gains a new [Demon Lord's Decree], increasing his control over the Land of Buried Bones and its undead. He learns about various undead buildings and their functions.

Character Developments

• Duke Jonathan experiences a crisis that shakes his arrogance and makes him reassess his strategies.
• Zong Shen gains more authority and knowledge about the Land of Buried Bones, planning to use it to strengthen his territory's defenses.

Significant Themes

• The clash between old and new powers, represented by the "flames of the old era" and the lords.
• The struggle for power and resources, as seen in the conflict between Duke Jonathan and the bandits, and Zong Shen's acquisition of undead buildings.

Character Interactions

• Duke Jonathan interacts with Phil Black Orchid, his wife, who shows concern for his safety and well-being.
• Zong Shen, although not directly interacting with other characters, communicates with the Lord System to gain more information and privileges.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zong Shen discovers the [Ghost Tower] and learns about its capabilities and strategic value.
• He finds information about the [Corrupted Soil Swamp] and its role in producing undead troops.
• He also learns about the [Soul Condensation Altar] and its various soul-condensing effects.

Character Developments

• Zong Shen gains a deeper understanding of undead buildings and their strategic importance.
• He realizes the potential of undead troops and the advantages they bring to battles.

Significant Themes

• The strategic value of undead buildings and their unique capabilities.
• The potential of undead troops and their role in battles.
• The importance of resources (flesh, necromantic power, soul power) in undead production and development.

Character Interactions

• Although there are no direct interactions in this chapter, Zong Shen's thoughts and decisions regarding the discovered buildings imply his strategic planning and consideration of their potential use in battles and territory development.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The chapter introduces a free 7-day membership offer for Qidian's Sound Bear Alliance, encouraging readers to engage with the platform.
• The author emphasizes the value of the offer, highlighting that it's free and beneficial to claim.

Character Developments

• No significant character developments occur in this chapter as it's primarily focused on the membership offer.

Significant Themes

• Value of Free Offers: The chapter emphasizes the importance of taking advantage of free opportunities, suggesting that everyone should seize this chance.
• Engagement and Community: The offer encourages readers to interact with the platform and become part of the community.

Character Interactions

• There are no character interactions in this chapter as it's written from the author's perspective, directly addressing the reader.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zong Shen learns about the cooperative relationship between Blood-Burning Demons and Undead.
• He discovers that the Blood-Burning Demons had a cooperative relationship with the Undead of some plane, with demons absorbing remnant souls and the Undead growing stronger through war.
• Zong Shen decides to explore the Blood-Burning Demon Ruins to gain useful resources and special buildings for his territory.
• He plans to recruit more legendary powerhouses and form exploration teams to clear these Ruins.

Character Developments

• Zong Shen's understanding of the Blood-Burning Demons and Undead deepens.
• He becomes more determined to explore the Blood-Burning Demon Ruins for the benefit of his territory.

Significant Themes

• The cooperative relationship between different races (Demons and Undead) and how they complement each other.
• The importance of understanding one's enemies and their tactics for successful conquest.

Character Interactions

• Zong Shen interacts with his thoughts and plans, reflecting his strategic mindset and ambition.
• He considers various legendary powerhouses under his command, showing his growing influence and power.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zong Shen considers Bone Sky as the ideal commander for his undead army.
• Bone Sky's detailed attributes and skills are revealed, showcasing his immense potential and power.
• Zong Shen recalls Bone Sky's passive skills, highlighting his limitless growth potential.
• Zong Shen plans to release Bone Sky by finding a Tier 6 spatial Archmage to create a passage through the barrier.
• The Lord System grants Jonathan new permissions, turning the Battle of Lentax into a two-way event, and giving Jonathan a chance to become a protagonist.

Character Developments

• Zong Shen: Shows strategic thinking and long-term planning in considering Bone Sky's potential and making plans to release him.
• Bone Sky: Revealed to have immense potential and powerful skills, making him an ideal commander for the undead army.
• Jonathan: Gains new permissions from the Lord System, allowing him to participate in the Battle of Lentax and potentially become a protagonist.

Significant Themes

• Potential and growth: Bone Sky's skills and passive abilities emphasize his immense potential and growth opportunities.
• Strategic planning: Zong Shen's plans to release Bone Sky and trade Prince Carter for benefits demonstrate his strategic thinking.
• Change and opportunity: Jonathan's new status as a potential protagonist highlights the theme of change and opportunity.

Character Interactions

• Zong Shen and Bone Sky: Zong Shen considers Bone Sky as a key piece in his plans, while Bone Sky's friendly demeanor and curiosity hint at a potential alliance.
• Zong Shen and Jonathan: Zong Shen's plans to trade Prince Carter for benefits could potentially interact with Jonathan's new role in the Battle of Lentax.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Duke Jonathan awakens as a Lord, gaining new authority and breaking free from his previous constraints.
• Zong Shen explores the Land of Buried Bones, discovering the [Platform of the Forgotten] which can recruit powerful undead troops.
• The God of Tides Njord and the God of Wild Seas Aegir descend upon the Storm Ocean, aiming to spread their faith and find a chosen person.

Character Developments

• Duke Jonathan's priorities shift after becoming a Lord, with his support for Prince Carter waning.
• Zong Shen continues to explore and gain control over the Land of Buried Bones, expanding his territory's capabilities.
• The gods Njord and Aegir descend onto the Endless Continent, seeking to establish their faith and fulfill their mission.

Significant Themes

• Power and authority: Duke Jonathan's newfound power changes his priorities, while the gods Njord and Aegir bring divine power to the Endless Continent.
• Recruitment and control: Zong Shen gains access to a new recruitment building, and the gods aim to recruit believers.
• Suppression and resistance: The Endless Continent's strong suppression makes it difficult for the gods to unleash their full power, while the black tide's turbulence subsides upon their arrival.

Character Interactions

• Zong Shen communicates with Medina, Jiang Yi, and Maryl using the [Channel] and magic paper birds to convey warnings and instructions.
• Duke Jonathan's change in attitude towards Prince Carter hints at potential future conflicts.
• The gods Njord and Aegir interact, discussing their mission and plans for the Endless Continent.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Storm Ocean, a mysterious and forbidden region, is explored by the Twin Gods, Njord and Aegir, who are restricted by the Supreme Administration but ordered to find a chosen one, Zong Shen, before the next minor era.
• Zong Shen receives news that the Chimera Roost has fully recovered and regained its vitality due to the [Vitality Branch of the Offspring World Tree] and the efforts of Maryl and Salome Forestspeech.

Character Developments

• Luna, Zong Shen's lover, has become more demure and gentle, focusing on training Huntresses and looking forward to their child's future.
• Maryl has grown more mature and capable, taking the initiative to help the territory and showing confidence in her actions.
• Zong Shen remains ambitious and determined, with a clear vision for the territory's future and the continent's survival.

Significant Themes

• The harsh and mysterious nature of the Storm Ocean and other forbidden zones.
• The importance of the chosen one, Zong Shen, to the Divine Court and the Twin Gods.
• The power of life and revival, represented by the [Vitality Branch of the Offspring World Tree] and the restored Chimera Roost.

Character Interactions

• Zong Shen and Luna share a peaceful moment together, discussing their hopes for the territory and their child's future.
• Zong Shen and Maryl discuss the revival of the Chimera Roost, with Maryl taking the lead in explaining the process and its results.
• The Twin Gods, Njord and Aegir, discuss their plans to find Zong Shen and dominate the seas, deciding to split up and communicate through a Sea Soul Orb.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The [Chimera Roost] undergoes a transformation after being nourished by the [Green Spirit Essence], merging old and new forces, and doubling its effectiveness in summoning and nurturing Chimeras.
• The roost's maximum summoning tier increases to Tier 7, allowing it to summon stronger Chimeras.
• Zong Shen inspects the roost using the Strategy Module and confirms its enhanced capabilities.
• The roost summons six Tier 6 and one Tier 7 Chimera, which are incorporated into the territory's aerial cavalry legion.
• Zong Shen decides to prioritize finding the final [Elven Key] in the Land of Buried Bones and instructs Zoe Babbitt to focus on this task.

Character Developments

• Maryl, the Tree Spirit, plays a crucial role in the roost's transformation and reports the change to Zong Shen.
• Luna, the Night Elf, shows an affinity for Tree Spirits and accompanies Maryl to inspect the roost.
• Zong Shen demonstrates his strategic thinking by activating the Strategy Module to inspect the roost and by prioritizing the search for the final [Elven Key].
• Zoe Babbitt shows dedication to her duties as an archaeologist, promptly suspending her current exploration to focus on finding the final [Elven Key].

Significant Themes

• The power of nature and its creatures, as seen in the transformation of the [Chimera Roost] and the affinity between Luna and Tree Spirits.
• The importance of strategic planning and adaptability, demonstrated by Zong Shen's actions.
• The value of effective communication and reporting, shown by Maryl's prompt notification of the roost's transformation to Zong Shen.

Character Interactions

• Maryl and Luna share a close, sisterly relationship, working together to inspect the roost.
• Zong Shen interacts with Maryl and Luna, showing appreciation for their efforts and instructing them on their tasks.
• Zong Shen communicates with Zoe Babbitt, providing clear instructions and prioritizing tasks.
• Zong Shen plans to meet with Mai Raven to discuss matters related to Prince Carter, though this interaction is not detailed in the chapter.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jonathan gains new Lord System privileges, increasing his motivation to fight in Lentax.
• Zong Shen decides to hand over Prince Carter to Jonathan and meet him in person.
• The territory's population exceeds twenty million, and refugees are arriving daily.
• Zong Shen travels to Snowflake Homeland to find Mai Raven.

Character Developments

• Jonathan's ambition grows, and he becomes more determined to gain power.
• Zong Shen continues to adapt and plan for his territory's growth and development.
• Mai Raven is collecting church taxes in Snowflake Homeland.

Significant Themes

• The importance of population and territory size for development and power.
• The consequences of missteps and the need for constant vigilance in the competition among lords.
• The harsh realities and hardships faced by the Calamity Raven Church.

Character Interactions

• Zong Shen and Mai Raven are set to meet, likely to discuss the handover of Prince Carter and potential cooperation.
• Jonathan's new privileges and motivation may lead to increased conflict with Zong Shen's territory.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zong Shen is interested in the Northern Frontier for its mineral resources, planning to turn it into an "industrial zone" for the entire continent.
• Zong Shen visits Snowflake Homeland, a Bang City controlled by the Calamity Raven Church, to meet with Bishop Mai Raven.
• Zong Shen plans to use Prince Carter to negotiate with Jonathan, the leader of the Lentax Great City alliance, with Mai Raven's assistance.

Character Developments

• Zong Shen: He continues to expand his territory and influence, now planning for the entire continent's development. He also shows understanding and respect for Mai Raven's situation.
• Mai Raven: He is revealed to be more worldly than his bishop title suggests, having an affair with a young girl in the Viscount's Castle. He is clever and pragmatic, understanding the value of Prince Carter and the need for caution in dealing with Jonathan.

Significant Themes

• Resource Management: The chapter highlights the importance of mineral resources for the Vigia Kingdom and Zong Shen's plans for the Northern Frontier.
• Power Dynamics: The relationship between the Calamity Raven Church, the Vigia Kingdom, and the other human kingdoms is explored, showing the complex political landscape of the Endless Continent.
• Cunning vs. Naivety: Mai Raven's affair and his later caution in dealing with Jonathan contrast with Zong Shen's straightforward approach, illustrating the different ways characters navigate their world.

Character Interactions

• Zong Shen and Mai Raven: Their interaction is brief but reveals their mutual respect and understanding. Zong Shen shows consideration for Mai Raven's situation, while Mai Raven is pragmatic and willing to assist Zong Shen despite the risks.
• Mai Raven and the young girl: Their encounter shows Mai Raven's worldly nature and the lack of morality or judgment in his actions, contrasting with his bishop title.

Plot Points and Events

• Mai Raven and Zong Shen return to Cold Raven Valley and use the teleportation passage to head towards Jonathan's camp.
• Zong Shen brings Prince Carter with them.
• Jonathan and Phil Black Orchid are intimate in his main tent while the battle rages outside.
• Two bandit leaders, presumably from the opposing forces, wish to meet Jonathan to discuss cooperation against other bandits.

Character Developments

• Mai Raven develops feelings for the girl he slept with, showing a softer side.
• Jonathan's desire for conquest intensifies, and he becomes more vigorous and youthful after using points to extend his lifespan.
• Phil Black Orchid is confused by Jonathan's changes and wants to uncover the truth.

Significant Themes

• Power and privilege: Zong Shen acknowledges the hypocrisy of condemning Jonathan's lifestyle while benefiting from his own power and territory.
• Change and adaptation: Jonathan's physical and mental changes after using points, and Phil's confusion about these changes.
• Cooperation and alliances: The bandit leaders' desire to meet Jonathan, suggesting potential shifts in alliances.

Character Interactions

• Mai Raven and Zong Shen: Mai Raven is grateful for Zong Shen's protection and cooperation, while Zong Shen shows understanding and patience towards Mai's personal life.
• Jonathan and Phil Black Orchid: Jonathan's renewed vigor and desire for conquest, while Phil is confused and curious about his changes.
• Jonathan and the bandit leaders: Jonathan agrees to meet the bandit leaders, potentially leading to new alliances or conflicts.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jonathan realizes the potential of the lords (Chosen Ones) and sees them as a means to gain points and power.
• Two lords, Alon Rudy and Ernie Edwards, seek an audience with Jonathan to discuss cooperation.

Character Developments

• Jonathan: He becomes more ambitious, seeing the lords as a way to gain power and longevity. He plans to use them to harvest points.
• Alon Rudy: He remains emotionless and reserved, showing little development or interaction with Ernie Edwards.
• Ernie Edwards: He shows prejudice towards Alon due to his race, displaying his personality and lack of understanding of the new world.

Significant Themes

• Ambition vs. Ignorance: Jonathan's ambition contrasts with the lords' seemingly ignorant behavior, highlighting their different approaches to power.
• Power Dynamics: The relationship between Jonathan and the lords shifts, with Jonathan seeing them as prey rather than equals.
• Cultural Clash: Ernie Edwards' prejudice towards Alon highlights the cultural clashes and misunderstandings between the lords from different backgrounds.

Character Interactions

• Jonathan and Phil Black Orchid: Jonathan's interaction with Phil remains affectionate, but he keeps his plans secret from her.
• Alon Rudy and Ernie Edwards: The two lords have minimal interaction, with Ernie showing prejudice towards Alon. They are forced to work together due to their orders.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Alon Rudy and Ernie Edwards meet Grand Duke Jonathan, who knows about lords and points.
• Jonathan offers them a deal: work for him, or die.
• Zong Shen and Mai Raven arrive near Lentax Great City, witnessing the massive gathering of lords.
• They spot Jonathan's camp, which is vast and well-fortified.

Character Developments

• Alon Rudy and Ernie Edwards: They decide to betray the lords and join Jonathan, prioritizing their own interests.
• Jonathan: He reveals his knowledge about lords and points, aiming to recruit them for his benefit.
• Zong Shen: He remains focused on his mission, showing no interest in the lords' power struggle.
• Mai Raven: He is surprised by the scale of the lords' gathering but follows Zong Shen's lead.

Significant Themes

• Betrayal and loyalty: Alon Rudy and Ernie Edwards betray the lords to join Jonathan, while Zong Shen remains loyal to his mission.
• Power dynamics: Jonathan seeks to gain more power by recruiting lords, while the lords try to maintain their independence.
• The truth about the world: Jonathan hints at knowing more about the world's truth, but he doesn't reveal it.

Character Interactions

• Alon Rudy and Ernie Edwards: They work together to try and negotiate with Jonathan, then decide to join him.
• Jonathan and the lords: Jonathan intimidates and tries to recruit the lords, while they remain wary of him.
• Zong Shen and Mai Raven: They work together to reach Jonathan's camp, with Zong Shen leading the way.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zong Shen and Mai Raven arrive at the Avalon Kingdom's camp, bringing Prince Carter.
• The camp is heavily fortified with numerous troops, magical beasts, and aircraft.
• Mai Raven and Zong Shen are escorted to meet Duke Jonathan.

Character Developments

• Zong Shen: Shows caution and strategic thinking, preparing for the worst-case scenario.
• Mai Raven: Displays composure and mental fortitude when facing hostility.
• Duke Jonathan: Shows concern for Prince Carter despite losing hope in him.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics: The vast camp and its defenses showcase the Avalon Kingdom's military might.
• Loyalty and betrayal: Alon Rudy and Ernie Edwards gain Loyalty points to Duke Jonathan after defecting from their original Lord.

Character Interactions

• Zong Shen and Mai Raven: They work together, with Mai Raven acting as the spokesperson and Zong Shen carrying Prince Carter.
• Duke Jonathan and the Ranger Captain: Jonathan orders the captain to bring Mai Raven and Zong Shen to him.
• Duke Jonathan, Alon Rudy, and Ernie Edwards: They discuss strategies to exploit other Lords before being interrupted by the news of Prince Carter's arrival.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jonathan, confident after winning over Alon and Ernie, faces the Calamity Raven Church's demands for Carter's release.
• Mai Raven and Zong Shen (disguised) arrive with Carter, threatening to kill him if Jonathan doesn't cooperate.
• Jonathan initially refuses, but Zong Shen reveals Carter's royal bloodline, shocking Jonathan and changing the dynamics.
• Jonathan agrees to negotiate, with Zong Shen pushing for a Great City in exchange for Carter.

Character Developments

• Jonathan: Becomes more ambitious and ruthless after awakening, but still values Carter's life.
• Mai Raven: Maintains composure under pressure, acting as Zong Shen's mouthpiece.
• Zong Shen: Disguises himself as a Lord named Rosen, using his knowledge of Jonathan's secrets to gain the upper hand in negotiations.

Significant Themes

• Ambition vs. Family: Jonathan's growing ambition clashes with his desire to protect his son.
• Secrets and Manipulation: Both sides use secrets and hidden knowledge to gain leverage in negotiations.
• Power Dynamics: The power balance shifts as each side reveals their strengths and weaknesses.

Character Interactions

• Jonathan vs. Zong Shen: A tense standoff as Zong Shen uses his knowledge of Jonathan's secrets to pressure him.
• Mai Raven vs. Jonathan: Mai Raven maintains a calm demeanor, acting as Zong Shen's spokesperson.
• Zong Shen vs. Mai Raven: Zong Shen guides Mai Raven's actions, using him to convey his demands to Jonathan.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zong Shen and Jonathan negotiate a deal involving a Great City, Prince Carter, population, soldiers, craftsmen, and spellcasters.
• The Lord System intervenes and requires them to form a contract to prevent a severe alteration in Avalon's struggle for supremacy.
• They agree to the contract terms, with Zong Shen receiving the required resources and Jonathan getting Prince Carter back after fulfillment.

Character Developments

• Jonathan's ambitions grow after awakening, leading him to prioritize territorial expansion.
• Zong Shen demonstrates his strategic prowess and willingness to make deals for his territory's benefit.
• Prince Carter's value is recognized by both parties, but Zong Shen is willing to trade him away.

Significant Themes

• Ambition and power dynamics among nobles.
• The value of resources and strategic planning in territory development.
• The influence of the Lord System on events and decisions.

Character Interactions

• Zong Shen and Jonathan engage in a tense negotiation, with Zong Shen using persuasion and strategic reasoning to convince Jonathan to accept his terms.
• Jonathan shows reluctance in giving up resources but ultimately agrees to the contract to secure Prince Carter's return.
• The Lord System acts as a mediator, influencing both characters' decisions.