Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Su receives monthly silver and supplies from his elder brother via their family servant, Uncle Guan.
• Zhang Su asks about his brother's well-being, showing a softening of his stance after a year of estrangement.
• Zhang Su discovers he hasn't cultivated any Blood Qi in a year due to his predecessor's stubbornness in mastering the difficult 'Great River Divine Art.'
• Zhang Su decides to switch his cultivation technique and visits the Scripture Pavilion.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su shows signs of reconciling with his elder brother.
• Zhang Su realizes his predecessor's pedantic and stubborn nature, leading him to question his own principles.

Significant Themes

• The importance of family and reconciliation.
• The consequences of stubbornness and pride in martial arts cultivation.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su interacts with Uncle Guan, showing a change in his attitude towards his elder brother.
• Zhang Su reflects on his predecessor's actions and decisions, influencing his own plans for the future.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Su visits the Scripture Pavilion to find a suitable Blood Qi Realm martial art.
• He discovers the 'Taotie Blood Nourishing Technique' with a 91% Compatibility Rate.
• After cultivating it for just ten breaths, he successfully enters the Blood Qi Realm and cultivates his first wisp of Blood Qi.
• Zhang Su then searches for a suitable martial technique, finding two sword techniques with Compatibility Rates above 90%.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su demonstrates perseverance by not changing his martial art for a year.
• He shows adaptability and resourcefulness in choosing a new martial art that suits him.
• He exhibits determination in his cultivation, immediately attempting to cultivate the new technique.

Significant Themes

• The importance of choosing a martial art that suits one's compatibility.
• The value of perseverance and adaptability in cultivation.
• The balance between spending resources (Contribution Points) and gaining benefits (suitable martial arts).

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su interacts with an elder of the Scripture Pavilion, who advises him on choosing martial arts.
• Zhang Su's internal dialogue reveals his thoughts and decisions throughout the chapter.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Su decides to exchange for two sword techniques, Nine Shadows Sword Technique and Triple Wave, despite their different styles, due to their high Compatibility Rates.
• He practices both techniques in a Cultivation Room, reaching Lesser Mastery in both within a short time due to their high Compatibility Rates with him.
• Zhang Su returns to his lodging area to find his roommates, who are interested in the Blood Replenishing Pills he received.
• Zhang Su decides to use the Blood Replenishing Pill himself, successfully cultivating more Blood Qi.
• Zhang Su's roommates discuss teaching him a lesson to make him value their protection and continue providing them with good things.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su demonstrates his determination and decisiveness in choosing and practicing martial arts, showing that he is no longer the passive, foolish character he was initially portrayed as.
• Zhang Su's roommates, Du Tian, Zhao Feng, and Chu Dachuan, reveal their selfish and manipulative nature, prioritizing their own interests over Zhang Su's well-being.

Significant Themes

• The importance of Compatibility Rate in martial arts practice is emphasized, showing that high Compatibility Rates can significantly speed up cultivation and increase the likelihood of perfecting techniques.
• The theme of self-reliance and independence is hinted at, as Zhang Su starts to make decisions for himself instead of relying on others or being manipulated by them.
• The theme of friendship and loyalty is explored through the contrasting actions of Zhang Su and his roommates, with Zhang Su valuing his own growth and the roommates valuing their own interests.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su interacts with the elder of the Scripture Pavilion, who warns him about the differences between the two sword techniques he wants to exchange for.
• Zhang Su interacts with his roommates, who are initially interested in the Blood Replenishing Pills he received but later discuss teaching him a lesson to maintain their influence over him.
• The interactions between Zhang Su and his roommates highlight the differences in their values and priorities, with Zhang Su focusing on his own growth and the roommates focusing on their own interests.

Chapter Summary: “Half a Month, Blood Qi Realm Second Layer!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• After consuming a Blood Replenishing Pill, Zhang Su cultivates through the night and produces one hundred threads of Blood Qi, condensing them into a single strand.
• He realizes that the pills dramatically accelerate cultivation. At his current rate, he could reach the Blood Qi Realm Second Layer in about twenty days, though improving the Taotie Blood Nourishing Technique could make it even faster.
• Zhang Su spends the next half month secluded in his room, consuming the remaining pills and practicing cultivation and sword techniques.
• Du Tian, Zhao Feng, and their companions repeatedly try to lure him outside so Wang Hai can confront him, but Zhang Su refuses every invitation and remains focused on cultivation.
• After fifteen days, Zhang Su breaks through to the Blood Qi Realm Second Layer. His Taotie Blood Nourishing Technique, Nine Shadows Sword Technique, and Triple Wave all reach the Major Accomplishment Realm.
• With the final pill consumed, Zhang Su leaves to purchase more at the Guiyuan Sect Trading Hall. He buys:
  • Thirty Blood Replenishing Pills for 1,500 Contribution Points
  • A high-quality Lengshuang Sword for 1,000 Contribution Points
• The Lengshuang Sword is recommended because it combines durability and power for Triple Wave with lightness and cold-producing properties that enhance the speed of Nine Shadows.
• Upon leaving the Trading Hall, Zhang Su encounters Wang Hai, a Blood Qi Realm Third Layer martial artist who insults him and his family.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su: Demonstrates patience, discipline, and strategic caution by refusing to leave his room until his cultivation improves. His breakthrough to the Second Layer and advancement of all three techniques establish him as a rapidly rising martial artist. He also begins investing seriously in resources and equipment.
• Du Tian, Zhao Feng, and the other disciples: Become increasingly frustrated because Zhang Su avoids their planned confrontation. They wait for him to exhaust his pills and finally leave, intending to inform Wang Hai.
• Wang Hai: Is revealed as Zhang Su’s longtime tormentor and a failed rival of Zhang Su’s elder brother. His resentment toward the family motivates his hostility.
• The unnamed elder brother and the Su Family: Their past relationship is clarified. Zhang Su’s brother married into or benefited from the Su Family, while Wang Hai views him as someone who deceived the Su Family’s daughter.

Significant Themes

• Cultivation through resources: The chapter emphasizes that wealth and medicinal pills can radically accelerate martial progress, though they are extremely expensive.
• Discipline versus provocation: Zhang Su ignores distractions and insults, prioritizing long-term strength over immediate conflict.
• Outer Sect inequality: The Guiyuan Sect offers no discounts or special support to Outer Sect disciples, treating them as expendable competitors. Inner Sect disciples and True Disciples receive increasingly generous benefits.
• Transformation and underestimated potential: Zhang Su, previously regarded as worthless, quietly develops at extraordinary speed while others continue judging him by his past weakness.
• Preparation and equipment: A suitable weapon is presented as an important part of martial strength, especially when facing opponents with superior arms.

Character Interactions

• Du Tian and the others repeatedly encourage Zhang Su to attend demonstrations and sparring matches, secretly hoping to expose him to Wang Hai. Zhang Su sees through neither their full intentions nor their urgency, but calmly refuses.
• Zhang Su interacts with the Trading Hall steward, who evaluates his two sword techniques and recommends the Lengshuang Sword.
• Wang Hai confronts Zhang Su directly, mocking his cultivation, family, and use of wealth. The chapter ends with Zhang Su facing him alone, while Du Tian and the others are conspicuously absent.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wang Hai confronts Zhang Su, revealing that Du Tian, Zhao Feng, and Chu Dachuan had asked him to attack Zhang Su out of resentment toward Zhang Su’s elder brother and jealousy over the resources Zhang Su had previously shared with them.
• Zhang Su realizes that the three men had betrayed him and arranged the confrontation.
• When Wang Hai attacks, Zhang Su draws the newly acquired Lengshuang Sword and uses the Nine Shadows Sword Technique.
• Although Wang Hai is at the Blood Qi Realm Third Layer and initially believes he has blocked Zhang Su’s strike, Zhang Su’s six sword shadows are all real. Wang Hai manages to stop only three of them and is seriously injured in both hands and one leg.
• Zhang Su spares Wang Hai’s life, following the Guiyuan Sect’s rule forbidding disciples from killing or crippling one another. Wang Hai will need ten days to half a month to recover.
• After witnessing the fight, the surrounding disciples are shocked to learn that Zhang Su has reached the Major Accomplishment Realm in the Nine Shadows Sword Technique despite having only recently begun cultivating Blood Qi.
• Zhang Su returns to his residence, where Du Tian, Zhao Feng, and Chu Dachuan are waiting for him. They expect Wang Hai to have defeated him.
• Du Tian admits their betrayal and attacks Zhang Su directly. Zhang Su defeats him with a single attack of six sword shadows.
• Zhao Feng also attacks but is quickly stabbed and knocked down.
• Chu Dachuan, the strongest of the three at the Blood Qi Realm Third Layer, challenges Zhang Su using his own Major Accomplishment-level fast sword technique.
• During their prolonged exchange, Zhang Su uses the battle to comprehend and improve his technique. His swordsmanship advances from six shadows to seven, then finally to nine sword shadows, reaching the Perfected Realm.
• Chu Dachuan is unable to defend against the perfected technique. Zhang Su cuts his wrist, causing him to drop his sword and decisively lose.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su: Reveals that his apparent weakness was misleading. Though his cultivation is only at the Blood Qi Realm Second Layer, his exceptional swordsmanship allows him to defeat stronger opponents. He becomes more confident and assertive, refusing to tolerate betrayal. His Nine Shadows Sword Technique breaks through from Major Accomplishment to the Perfected Realm during the fight with Chu Dachuan.
• Wang Hai: Demonstrates arrogance and deep resentment, believing his higher cultivation guarantees victory. After being defeated, he is forced to recognize the gap between his cultivation and Zhang Su’s swordsmanship.
• Du Tian, Zhao Feng, and Chu Dachuan: Their false friendship and opportunism are exposed. They had benefited from Zhang Su’s generosity but secretly plotted against him. Du Tian and Zhao Feng are swiftly defeated, while Chu Dachuan proves more capable but is ultimately overwhelmed.
• Chu Dachuan: Reveals that he had also hidden his true swordsmanship, possessing a Major Accomplishment-level fast sword technique. However, his confidence collapses when Zhang Su advances to One Sword Nine Shadows.

Significant Themes

• Betrayal and human nature: Zhang Su reflects bitterly on how the people he helped turned against him once they believed he was weak.
• Hidden strength and underestimated talent: Zhang Su’s delayed cultivation had caused others to dismiss him, but his extraordinary swordsmanship reveals that true ability cannot be judged by cultivation level alone.
• Growth through combat: Zhang Su uses his duel with Chu Dachuan not merely to win, but to comprehend and refine his technique in real time.
• Justice and restraint: Although Zhang Su decisively punishes his enemies, he does not kill or cripple them, respecting the Guiyuan Sect’s rules.
• Speed and technique versus raw power: Zhang Su’s superior sword technique allows him to overcome opponents with higher Blood Qi cultivation.

Character Interactions

• Wang Hai taunts Zhang Su and explains the conspiracy against him, but Zhang Su dismisses his boasting and defeats him before he can finish speaking.
• The gathered Outer Sect disciples act as witnesses, spreading recognition of Zhang Su’s hidden swordsmanship.
• Zhang Su confronts Du Tian, Zhao Feng, and Chu Dachuan directly after discovering their plot. Du Tian openly admits their hostility, while Chu Dachuan acknowledges that Zhang Su had concealed his abilities even more deeply than they had.
• The final duel between Zhang Su and Chu Dachuan becomes a contest of fast sword techniques, ending with Zhang Su’s breakthrough and Chu Dachuan’s defeat.

Summary

Key plot points and events

• Zhang Su defeats Du Tian, Zhao Feng, and Chu Dachuan in their room. Chu Dachuan’s impressive Great Accomplishment-level swordsmanship is overcome by Zhang Su’s perfected Nine Shadows Sword Technique, which creates nine sword shadows.
• Rather than killing them, Zhang Su demands compensation for the resources he had given them over the past year: ten Blood Replenishing Pills from each person, for a total of thirty.
• When Zhao Feng argues that sect rules prevent Zhang Su from killing fellow disciples, Zhang Su threatens to repeatedly “spar” with them and leave them too injured to cultivate. Chu Dachuan agrees to gather the pills within ten days.
• Zhang Su uses the single Compatibility Point gained from perfecting Nine Shadows Sword Technique on the Taotie Blood Nourishing Technique, raising its compatibility from 91% to 100%.
• The technique quickly reaches perfection, dramatically increasing Zhang Su’s ability to refine Blood Qi from Blood Replenishing Pills. He refines 200 strands of Blood Qi per day, compared with 150 previously.
• Over ten days, Zhang Su advances from the Blood Qi Realm Second Layer to the Fourth Layer, accumulating forty wisps of Blood Qi.
• Du Tian, Zhao Feng, and Chu Dachuan return on the deadline with all thirty pills. Zhang Su declares their grievances settled, but the three unexpectedly kneel before him.

Character developments

• Zhang Su becomes considerably stronger and more confident. He demonstrates both superior combat ability and a pragmatic willingness to use sect rules and psychological pressure rather than resorting to murder.
• His perfection of the Taotie Blood Nourishing Technique transforms his cultivation speed, allowing him to make an extraordinary two-realm breakthrough in only ten days.
• Chu Dachuan accepts his defeat with conviction despite possessing highly advanced swordsmanship, showing that he recognizes Zhang Su’s superiority.
• Du Tian, Zhao Feng, and Chu Dachuan shift from hostile opponents to intimidated subordinates or petitioners, forced to work together to satisfy Zhang Su’s demand.

Significant themes

• Talent versus effort: Reaching perfection in martial techniques requires either exceptional talent, inspiration, or a crucial opportunity; Zhang Su’s system compatibility can provide an alternate path.
• Cultivation as the foundation of power: Zhang Su prioritizes perfecting the blood-nourishing technique because a stronger cultivation base supports all other abilities.
• Power and leverage: Zhang Su uses nonlethal threats, sect regulations, and the promise of repeated injury to control his opponents.
• Rapid growth and opportunity: The chapter emphasizes how a single Compatibility Point and a perfected technique can produce an enormous increase in cultivation speed.

Character interactions

• Zhang Su defeats the three disciples and confronts them directly over the resources they owe him.
• Zhao Feng challenges Zhang Su’s threat by invoking Guiyuan Sect rules, but Zhang Su counters with the loophole of lawful sparring.
• Chu Dachuan acts as the practical negotiator, securing ten days to obtain the pills.
• After returning with the thirty pills, the three kneel instead of celebrating their freedom from Zhang Su’s demands, suggesting they have another request, confession, or appeal to make.

Chapter Summary: “One Month, Blood Qi Realm Ninth Layer!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chu Dachuan, Zhao Feng, and Du Tian formally submit themselves to Zhang Su, pledging loyalty after recognizing his extraordinary talent and growing influence.
• They explain that Zhang Su’s rapid mastery of the Nine Shadows Sword Technique, successful cultivation of the Taotie Blood Nourishing Technique, family resources, and future prospects make him the best person for them to follow.
• Zhang Su questions their motives but accepts their allegiance after determining that each can provide useful services:
  • Zhao Feng will handle errands.
  • Du Tian will collect information.
  • Chu Dachuan will act as a sparring partner and accompany Zhang Su when necessary.
• Du Tian warns Zhang Su that Wang Feng, one of the Top Ten Outer Sect Disciples and a Blood Qi Realm Ninth Layer expert, is investigating him because Wang Feng is Wang Hai’s second brother.
• Over the following month, Zhang Su cultivates using one Blood Replenishing Pill each day while sparring with Chu Dachuan.
• Thanks to the perfected Taotie Blood Nourishing Technique, Zhang Su produces two strands of Blood Qi daily. In one month, he advances from the Blood Qi Realm Fourth Layer to the Ninth Layer and reaches a total of one hundred strands of Blood Qi.
• Zhang Su now qualifies to attempt the production of Internal Force, though he recognizes that this breakthrough may still take considerable time.
• During a sparring session, Zhang Su easily disarms Chu Dachuan with a single strike, revealing that Chu can no longer meaningfully challenge or assist him.
• Zhang Su realizes that his Triple Wave Sword Technique remains stuck at the Major Accomplishment Realm because Chu’s fast sword style cannot provide the right kind of pressure or inspiration.
• Chu Dachuan presents Zhang Su with a prepared list of suitable high-level sword and saber practitioners. The first name is Wang Feng, creating a potential confrontation between Zhang Su and Wang Hai’s powerful elder brother.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su becomes far more pragmatic and confident. Rather than rejecting the three disciples for being profit-driven, he recognizes their usefulness and decides to employ them under his control.
• His cultivation progresses at an astonishing rate, confirming his exceptional talent and greatly widening the gap between him and ordinary Outer Sect disciples.
• Chu Dachuan shifts from opponent to loyal subordinate. He abandons any hope of competing with Zhang Su and proves his value through careful observation, loyalty, and preparation.
• Zhao Feng and Du Tian also choose practical advancement over pride, acknowledging that Zhang Su offers their best chance of reaching the Inner Sect.
• Wang Feng is established as a significant future threat: a Blood Qi Realm Ninth Layer expert, a member of the Outer Sect’s Top Ten, and Wang Hai’s brother.

Significant Themes

• Pragmatism and loyalty: The three disciples follow Zhang Su not out of friendship but because they recognize his potential and the benefits of serving him.
• Power and usefulness: Zhang Su evaluates people according to what they can contribute, while the others understand that status and advancement depend on talent, resources, and connections.
• Rapid growth versus ordinary cultivation: Zhang Su’s one-month advancement is portrayed as nearly unimaginable compared with the slow progress of typical martial artists.
• The importance of suitable opposition: Martial breakthroughs require the right environment and opponent. Zhang Su cannot perfect the Triple Wave Sword Technique without facing someone who uses a comparable power-based style.
• Rising conflict: Zhang Su’s success attracts attention, and Wang Feng’s investigation hints that his rapid rise will soon bring him into conflict with a stronger Outer Sect figure.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su tests the sincerity and usefulness of Chu Dachuan, Zhao Feng, and Du Tian before accepting them.
• Du Tian serves as Zhang Su’s informant by revealing Wang Feng’s connection to Wang Hai and agreeing to monitor him.
• Chu Dachuan becomes Zhang Su’s sparring partner but is quickly outclassed as Zhang Su’s cultivation rises.
• Their failed sparring relationship leads Chu Dachuan to provide a list of stronger opponents, unintentionally directing Zhang Su toward Wang Feng.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Su inquires about Wang Feng, one of the Top Ten Outer Sect Disciples, but decides not to challenge him yet.
• Zhang Su chooses to challenge Qin Wu, who also cultivates the Triple Wave Sword Technique at the greater mastery stage.
• Zhang Su and Qin Wu engage in a sword duel, with both aiming to improve their swordsmanship.
• Zhang Su seizes the opportunity to perfect the Triple Wave Sword Technique during the duel.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su shows restraint in not challenging Wang Feng, demonstrating strategic thinking and understanding of his current limits.
• Zhang Su's determination to improve his swordsmanship is evident as he seeks out Qin Wu for a challenge.
• Qin Wu shows respect for Zhang Su's qualifications and accepts the challenge, displaying a willingness to learn and grow.

Significant Themes

• The pursuit of perfection in martial arts is a central theme, with both Zhang Su and Qin Wu seeking to improve their sword techniques.
• The importance of finding suitable opponents to challenge and grow is highlighted, as Zhang Su chooses Qin Wu for this purpose.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su and Qin Wu engage in a respectful and intense duel, with both acknowledging each other's strengths and seeking to learn from the encounter.
• The Outer Sect disciples watching the duel show curiosity and surprise at Zhang Su's strength and Qin Wu's defeat.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Su and Chu Dachuan return home, with Chu Dachuan contemplating Zhang Su's dual perfected sword techniques.
• Zhang Su visits the Scripture Pavilion to find a suitable peerless technique for cultivation.
• He learns about two methods for producing Internal Force: tempering Blood Qi over time or cultivating a large quantity of Blood Qi using top-tier or peerless techniques.
• Zhang Su decides to choose a peerless technique to stack his Blood Qi and lay a solid foundation for future cultivation.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su: Realizes the importance of cultivating a peerless technique to reach his full potential. He becomes determined to find a suitable peerless technique and raise its compatibility using Compatibility Points.
• Chu Dachuan: Reflects on Zhang Su's dual perfected sword techniques and considers the possibility of Zhang Su contending for a place among the Top Ten Outer Sect Disciples.

Significant Themes

• The importance of talent and compatibility in cultivating high-level martial techniques.
• The two methods for producing Internal Force: tempering Blood Qi over time or cultivating a large quantity of Blood Qi using superior techniques.
• The struggle and determination required to cultivate powerful martial techniques.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su and Chu Dachuan walk back together, with Chu Dachuan silently considering Zhang Su's achievements.
• Zhang Su parts ways with Chu Dachuan to search for a suitable peerless technique at the Scripture Pavilion.

Summary: Exchanging for Thirteen Martial Arts Techniques

Key Plot Points & Events

• Zhang Su spends five full days in the Scripture Pavilion, reading through every Blood Qi Realm martial arts technique.
• He compiles a list of techniques with Compatibility Rates above 90%, ultimately finding thirteen: five superior techniques and eight ordinary techniques.
• The exchange costs 2,300 Contribution Points, leaving him with 800.
• He decides to postpone buying the Heaven-Swallowing Blood-Nurturing Technique (1,000 points) in order to secure the thirteen techniques first.
• After memorizing and practicing all thirteen, he rapidly reaches Minor Accomplishment Realm in all of them, including the superior movement technique Nine Palaces Steps.
• Chu Dachuan interrupts his cultivation to report that Uncle Guan has returned and insists on seeing him.
• Uncle Guan reports that the monthly 500 taels was deposited and delivers news: Eldest Brother’s son — Zhang Su’s nephew — will have his one-month celebration on the eighth day of next month. Eldest Brother invites Zhang Su home.
• Zhang Su agrees to return.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su: Shows extreme patience, focus, and strategic planning. He prioritizes broad martial arts accumulation before higher-level cultivation. He also demonstrates family loyalty by agreeing to return home.
• Eldest Brother (off-screen): Though not present, his care for Zhang Su is shown through Uncle Guan’s visit and invitation. Zhang Su reflects that his brother has endured humiliation and burdens for the family.
• Uncle Guan: Loyal and emotionally invested in the brothers’ reconciliation; visibly overjoyed when Zhang Su accepts the invitation.

Significant Themes

• Resource management: Zhang Su carefully budgets Contribution Points, deferring one goal to achieve another.
• Diligence and systematic improvement: Browsing all martial arts before choosing shows his methodical rise.
• Family obligation and status: Zhang Su realizes that to truly help his brother, he must become stronger and enter the Inner Sect.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su & Scripture Pavilion Elder: The elder is skeptical but allows the exchange after Zhang Su explains he wishes to “gather the strengths of a hundred schools.”
• Zhang Su & Chu Dachuan: Chu Dachuan acts as a reliable messenger, showing his continued loyalty.
• Zhang Su & Uncle Guan: A warm reunion; Uncle Guan brings news and a family invitation, and Zhang Su accepts without hesitation.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Su exchanges for thirteen martial arts techniques at the Scripture Pavilion, intending to master them all to earn Compatibility Points.
• His Blood Qi currently caps at the Human Limit, so he focuses entirely on technique cultivation before practicing the Heaven-Swallowing Blood-Nurturing Technique.
• In just half a month, he brings all thirteen techniques to Major Accomplishment, then begins challenging Outer Sect Ninth Layer disciples who use the same or similar techniques.
• Each duel uses only one of his thirteen techniques; he wins over twenty-one fights, gaining fame as an “Outer Sect Madman.”
• His three roommates — Du Tian, Zhao Feng, and Chu Dachuan — help identify suitable opponents and arrange duels.
• In a highly anticipated match against Lu Tianxing, Zhang Su uses the Nine Palaces Steps, initially defending, then suddenly outpacing Lu and placing his sword at Lu’s throat.
• Lu Tianxing admits defeat and asks what top-tier martial art Zhang Su is cultivating.
• Zhang Su replies: “My goal is the supreme!” — meaning a supreme martial arts technique.
• Final reveal: Zhang Su is not limited to 100 strands of Blood Qi; he has 152 strands and has already broken the Human Limit. He prefers crushing opponents rather than performing miracles as the underdog.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su: Displayed as a cultivation prodigy with terrifying technique comprehension; methodical, ambitious, and secretly stronger than publicly known.
• Du Tian, Zhao Feng, Chu Dachuan: Their earlier selfish thoughts fade; they become loyal and competent assistants to Zhang Su.
• Lu Tianxing: Earnest and good-spirited in defeat; curious about Zhang Su’s true goal.

Significant Themes

• Ambition and Supremacy: Zhang Su’s relentless pursuit of a supreme technique, using sheer volume of mastered skills as a stepping stone.
• Misjudged Talent: Rumors underestimate Zhang Su’s Blood Qi, but he is actually far beyond the Human Limit.
• Reputation and Rumor: The Outer Sect buzzes with speculation about whether he can challenge the Top Ten.
• Dedication vs. Talent: Zhang Su’s overwhelming compatibility rate turns even impossible-scale training into a matter of days.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su delegates background investigation to his roommates, who become increasingly loyal.
• His string of one-sided victories creates an excited, gossip-filled public arena.
• Lu Tianxing’s duel is respectful; after losing, he openly admits inferiority and asks the question everyone wants answered.
• Zhang Su’s terse, confident answer — “My goal is the supreme!” — creates an uproar and cements his “madman” reputation.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Su, a Blood Qi Realm cultivator, has perfected the Heaven-Swallowing Blood-Nurturing Technique, allowing him to cultivate eight strands of Blood Qi daily, a significant increase from his previous two strands.
• He needs four Blood Replenishing Pills daily, but his supply has run out, and he needs to replenish them before descending the mountain.
• Zhang Su has eight Compatibility Points, which can be used to improve a peerless martial skill, but he lacks the required contribution points.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su: He has significantly improved his cultivation speed but is now facing financial constraints, needing to replenish his Blood Replenishing Pills supply.
• Du Tian: He shows initiative in helping Zhang Su find a solution to his financial problem by suggesting the Funding Association.

Significant Themes

• The importance of financial resources in cultivation and martial arts training.
• The unequal power dynamics between sponsors and sponsored individuals in the Funding Association.
• The value placed on potential and combat strength in Guiyuan Sect.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su interacts with Du Tian, who helps him understand the Funding Association and its sponsorship terms.
• Zhang Su considers the sponsorship offers from various factions and individuals, ultimately deciding to visit the Funding Association in person to showcase his potential.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Su and Du Tian visit the Funding Association, which is secretly a private organization within a sect.
• Zhang Su meets Yan Bo, the vice president, and reveals he has broken the limits of the human body using the Heaven-Swallowing Blood-Nurturing Technique, a peerless divine technique.
• Yan Bo promises to secure a second-tier funding offer for Zhang Su within an hour.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su: Shows immense confidence in his abilities and is willing to fight for every moment to advance in cultivation. He reveals he has mastered a peerless divine technique, demonstrating his exceptional talent.
• Yan Bo: Recognizes Zhang Su's potential and is eager to secure a high-tier funding offer for him, likely to gain benefits for himself.

Significant Themes

• Talent and Potential: Zhang Su's mastery of a peerless divine technique highlights his exceptional talent, which is recognized and valued by Yan Bo.
• Ambition and Drive: Zhang Su's determination to advance in cultivation despite being overage showcases his ambition and drive to succeed.
• Opportunism: Yan Bo's eagerness to secure a high-tier funding offer for Zhang Su suggests he is looking for opportunities to benefit himself.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su and Yan Bo: Their interaction reveals Yan Bo's eagerness to secure a high-tier funding offer for Zhang Su, while Zhang Su is confident in his abilities and willing to wait for the best offer.
• Zhang Su and Du Tian: Du Tian is shocked by Zhang Su's progress and understands his circumstances well, showing concern for his well-being.

Plot Points & Events

• The Gu Family's past glory and downfall due to the theft of a priceless treasure by Zhou Sandao and Jiang Kui.
• Gu Ying offers Zhang Su a first-class sponsorship contract to help him advance into the Inner Sect, with the condition that he helps avenge her family.
• Zhang Su accepts the sponsorship and agrees to Gu Ying's condition.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su: Shows practicality and willingness to take risks by accepting the first-class sponsorship and choosing the Light Shadow Killing Sword, despite its difficulty.
• Gu Ying: Demonstrates determination and strategic thinking in seeking an alliance with Zhang Su for her family's revenge and protection.

Significant Themes

• The importance of sponsorship and resources in cultivation.
• The risks and rewards of supporting potential geniuses.
• The difficulty and potential of ultimate martial skills.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su and Gu Ying: They form an agreement, with Gu Ying offering sponsorship and Zhang Su agreeing to help her family.
• Zhang Su and the Scripture Elder: The elder warns Zhang Su about the difficulty of the Light Shadow Killing Sword, but Zhang Su remains determined.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Su enters the Cultivation Room to study the Light Shadow Killing Sword, a peerless technique that relies on observing and exploiting the surrounding environment.
• He learns that the technique can be concealed or enhanced by darkness, sunlight, rain, forests, and other conditions, but its complexity makes it extremely difficult to master.
• Using seven of his remaining eight Compatibility Points, Zhang Su raises his compatibility with the technique from 35% to 100%.
• With perfect compatibility, he immediately enters the Initiation Realm and demonstrates the technique by silently cutting off a corner of a table. Its speed and lack of visible sword movement astonish even him.
• After two hours of repeated practice, the technique reaches the Minor Accomplishment Realm. Zhang Su realizes that perfect compatibility gives him an almost effortless path toward the Major Accomplishment and Perfected Realms.
• He returns the sword manual and goes to the Trading Hall, where he spends 2,000 contribution points on forty Blood Replenishing Pills. Combined with the 1,000 points spent on the sword manual, he has used 3,000 of his 5,000 newly acquired points.
• Zhang Su calculates that his daily pill consumption exceeds his current financial support, leaving a monthly shortfall. He plans to discuss the matter with his eldest brother during his trip down the mountain.
• Back at his courtyard, Zhang Su finds Du Tian, Zhao Feng, and Chu Dachuan waiting. They ask to accompany him down the mountain, hoping to serve him and benefit from his growing influence.
• Zhang Su refuses because they are too weak and would become liabilities outside the sect. Instead, he orders them to cultivate seriously and gather information about the Top Ten Outer Sect Disciples.
• Zhang Su reveals his intention to challenge for a place among the Top Ten after returning from the mountain. The three disciples enthusiastically accept the task.

2. Character Developments

• Zhang Su demonstrates the enormous advantage of perfect compatibility. His mastery of the Light Shadow Killing Sword advances rapidly, strengthening his confidence and ambition.
• He becomes increasingly pragmatic and strategic, carefully managing his cultivation resources, finances, and future challenges.
• Zhang Su also shows concern for his eldest brother, whom he has not seen in a year, and begins preparing to investigate his brother’s situation within the Su Family.
• Du Tian, Zhao Feng, and Chu Dachuan reveal their desire to attach themselves to Zhang Su’s rising status. Although disappointed by his refusal, they remain respectful and agree to improve themselves.
• The three disciples’ loyalty develops from simple admiration into active support for Zhang Su’s future rise within the sect.

3. Significant Themes

• Talent amplified by opportunity: Perfect compatibility transforms an exceptionally difficult technique into something Zhang Su can master with extraordinary speed.
• Effort and divine assistance: Zhang Su’s repeated practice, combined with the System’s compatibility enhancement, creates the feeling of “divine aid.”
• Preparation for advancement: His cultivation, resource management, intelligence gathering, and future challenge are all part of a deliberate plan to rise among the Outer Sect disciples.
• Strength and responsibility: Zhang Su refuses to take weaker companions into danger, recognizing that loyalty alone cannot compensate for insufficient strength.
• Ambition versus financial pressure: Although Zhang Su’s power is rising rapidly, the costs of his cultivation remain a serious practical problem.
• Family obligations: His upcoming journey is not only about obtaining resources but also about reconnecting with and helping his eldest brother.

4. Character Interactions

• Zhang Su has no direct confrontation with the Scripture Pavilion elder in this chapter, though the elder’s negative assessment contrasts with Zhang Su’s rapidly increasing potential.
• In the Trading Hall, Zhang Su makes a costly but necessary investment in pills to sustain his cultivation.
• With Du Tian, Zhao Feng, and Chu Dachuan, Zhang Su acts as a firm senior brother: he rejects their request to accompany him, explains the danger of their weakness, and assigns them the important task of gathering intelligence.
• Their disappointment quickly turns into excitement when Zhang Su announces his plan to challenge the Top Ten Outer Sect Disciples, tying their own prospects to his success.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Su, after a night of meditation, increases his blood qi to 160 wisps.
• He descends the mountain, riding a Little Red Horse, and stops at an inn for a meal.
• A group of bandits led by He Xiongfei arrives, aiming to rob the valuable shipment the Zhenyuan Escort Agency is guarding.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su: Shows his martial prowess by overhearing and acknowledging the bandits' conversation, demonstrating his keen senses.
• Li He: A veteran of the pugilistic world, he quickly assesses the situation and offers a duel to He Xiongfei to avoid a costly battle.

Significant Themes

• The importance of martial prowess and reputation in the pugilistic world.
• The value of a major sect disciple's identity outside the sect.
• The harsh reality of the martial world, where bandits and robbers pose threats to travelers.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su interacts with the innkeeper and the Zhenyuan Escort Agency members, showing his calm and collected demeanor.
• Li He and his children, Li Xiaoman and Li Wushi, display their family bond and concern for each other's safety.
• Li He and He Xiongfei engage in a tense standoff, with Li He attempting to negotiate a duel to avoid a bloody battle.

Key Plot Points and Events

• He Xiongfei, a powerful bandit, challenges Li He, the head escort of Zhenyuan Escort Agency, to a duel.
• Li He loses in one move, and He Xiongfei's bandits prepare to seize the shipment.
• Zhang Su, an outer sect disciple of Guiyuan Sect, reveals that the shipment belongs to the Su Family, his brother's in-laws.

Character Developments

• Li He: Loses his composure and confidence after being injured by He Xiongfei, but maintains his integrity by upholding his agreement.
• He Xiongfei: Shows his ruthless and arrogant nature, not caring about the Su Family's influence.
• Zhang Su: Steps in to protect the Su Family's interests, revealing his connection to the Su Family and his status as a sect disciple.

Significant Themes

• Power Dynamics: The struggle between the Zhenyuan Escort Agency and Feitian Ridge bandits highlights the power dynamics in the pugilistic world.
• Integrity vs. Pragmatism: Li He's adherence to his word contrasts with He Xiongfei's disregard for agreements.
• Connections and Status: Zhang Su's intervention shows the importance of connections and status in the pugilistic world.

Character Interactions

• Li He vs. He Xiongfei: Their duel demonstrates the vast difference in their strengths and fighting styles.
• Zhang Su vs. Li He: Zhang Su's intervention challenges Li He's authority and changes the course of events.
• Zhang Su vs. He Xiongfei: Zhang Su's calm and confident demeanor contrasts with He Xiongfei's arrogance and disregard for the Su Family.

Chapter Summary: Zhang Su Takes Action, Light Shadow Killing Sword Perfected!

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Su intervenes when He Xiongfei and his bandits attempt to rob the Zhenyuan Escort Agency’s convoy.
• He Xiongfei cautiously questions Zhang Su’s identity after realizing he may be connected to the Su Family. Li He reveals that Zhang Su is the Zhang Family’s second young master and a disciple of the powerful Guiyuan Sect.
• Rather than retreating, He Xiongfei tests Zhang Su by sending several bandits against him.
• Zhang Su draws the Lengshuang Sword and kills three Blood Qi Realm bandits instantly with a single display of the Nine Shadows Sword Technique.
• Shocked by Zhang Su’s strength, He Xiongfei orders all his men to attack at once. Dozens of mounted bandits charge Zhang Su.
• Zhang Su directly enters the massed attack and uses the Light Shadow Killing Sword, moving swiftly through the riders and cutting every bandit’s throat with precise, identical strikes.
• None of the mounted bandits survive. Zhang Su realizes that the Light Shadow Killing Sword is fundamentally a technique of slaughter and that experiencing true killing has allowed him to understand its essence.
• His system confirms that the technique has advanced directly from Minor Accomplishment to the Perfected Realm, with its compatibility reaching 100% and his Compatibility Points increasing.
• Zhang Su turns his attention to He Xiongfei, the only remaining opponent, whose confidence has been shaken and whose weapon hand is visibly trembling.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su: Demonstrates overwhelming combat ability despite his youthful appearance and limited time as a Guiyuan Sect disciple. He remains calm while killing for the first time, showing that his transformation into a true martial-world expert is progressing rapidly. His comprehension of slaughter causes the Light Shadow Killing Sword to reach perfection.
• He Xiongfei: Revealed to be cautious and calculating rather than merely brutish. However, Zhang Su’s effortless slaughter of his men leaves him frightened and uncertain, forcing him to confront Zhang Su personally.
• Li He: Recognizes Zhang Su’s likely prestigious background and hopes his intervention can save the escort convoy. His understanding of Zhang Su’s sword control deepens after observing the identical wounds left on every bandit.
• Li Xiaoman and Li Wushi: Initially view Zhang Su as an elegant young hero, but become stunned and frightened by his terrifying efficiency in battle.

Significant Themes

• Hidden strength and reputation: Zhang Su’s unassuming appearance conceals power far beyond what He Xiongfei expects.
• Caution versus overwhelming force: He Xiongfei’s careful probing is reasonable in the martial world, but it cannot overcome Zhang Su’s superior ability.
• The nature of killing swordsmanship: The chapter emphasizes that the Light Shadow Killing Sword is not merely elegant swordplay; its true essence lies in precise, ruthless slaughter.
• Growth through experience: Zhang Su’s first real killing experience provides the insight necessary for his technique to reach the Perfected Realm.
• Perspective and fear: The observers’ reactions shift from admiration to awe and terror as Zhang Su’s refined appearance contrasts sharply with his brutal efficiency.

Character Interactions

• Li He attempts to use Zhang Su’s Guiyuan Sect status to intimidate He Xiongfei into withdrawing.
• He Xiongfei dismisses Zhang Su as an inexperienced outer disciple and uses his bandits to test him rather than fighting directly.
• Zhang Su answers the challenge through action, instantly killing the attackers and forcing He Xiongfei into a corner.
• The chapter ends with a tense confrontation: Zhang Su stands ready with his sword, while He Xiongfei faces him as the last surviving threat.

• Zhang Su encounters a group of bandits led by He Xiongfei while escorting Li Xiaoman. He Xiongfei attempts to rob them but underestimates Zhang Su's skill.
• Zhang Su reveals his Light Shadow Killing Sword technique, which he has perfected. He kills He Xiongfei and the rest of the bandits with a single strike to the throat each.
• Zhang Su collects a bounty of 2000 taels of silver for the bandits' heads and continues his journey to Qingquan Prefecture.
• Upon arrival, he witnesses the arrogant entrance of Su Zhenzhen's cousin, who is betrothed to a powerful martial artist in Qingquan Prefecture. Zhang Su learns about the complex alliances within the Su Family and the Jiang Family.
• Zhang Su enters Qingquan Prefecture, reflecting on the intricate relationships within the pugilistic world and the challenges his elder brother might face in the Su Family.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Su returns to Qingquan Prefecture, his childhood home.
• He heads to the Su Family residence, where his elder brother, Zhang Chen, lives as a live-in son-in-law.
• At the gate, he encounters the Second Young Lady of the Su Family's Third Branch, who shows hostility towards him.
• Zhang Su is taken to the courtyard where his elder brother lives. He learns that his elder brother is currently away, and his sister-in-law, Su Zhenzhen, has just given birth to a son.
• A servant rushes in, reporting that Zhang Chen and a member of the Third Branch, Young Master Qianhe, are fighting.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su: Shows calm and composed demeanor upon returning to his hometown. He is respectful towards his sister-in-law and shows affection towards his nephew.
• Su Zhenzhen: Displays grace and poise, showing no ill will towards Zhang Su despite their past. She is protective of her husband and eager to intervene in the conflict.
• Second Young Lady of the Third Branch: Reveals hostility towards Zhang Su, likely due to her dislike for Zhang Chen.

Significant Themes

• Family dynamics and tension between branches of a family.
• The struggle for power and influence within a wealthy family.
• The impact of past conflicts on present relationships.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su and the Second Young Lady of the Third Branch: The Second Young Lady shows open hostility towards Zhang Su, likely due to her dislike for his elder brother.
• Zhang Su and Su Zhenzhen: They greet each other politely, with no sign of the previous tension between them. Su Zhenzhen is warm and welcoming towards Zhang Su.
• Zhang Su and Uncle Guan, Su Lingyi: Uncle Guan and Su Lingyi are happy to see Zhang Su and express their hope for harmony between the two brothers.