Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Su achieves Baodan and advances to the Danjin stage after two hundred days of seclusion.
• He discovers his Danjin can erupt with a terrifying hundredfold power, far exceeding normal Baodan practitioners.
• The Sect Leader summons Zhang Su and asks him to participate in the Three Sects Tournament for those below the Danjin stage to lead the Guiyuan Sect to victory.
• Zhang Su refuses, revealing he has already advanced to the Danjin stage and is thus ineligible for the tournament.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su: Achieves Baodan, discovers his immense Danjin power, and refuses to participate in the Three Sects Tournament due to his advancement to the Danjin stage.
• Sect Leader Meng Shouzhen: Invites Zhang Su to participate in the tournament, offering ten thousand merit points as a reward.
• Master Zhao Qianfeng: Bargains for rewards on Zhang Su's behalf, feeling proud and satisfied with his disciple's achievements.

Significant Themes

• The power and significance of Baodan and Danjin stages in martial arts cultivation.
• The importance of the Three Sects Tournament for those below the Danjin stage in demonstrating a sect's strength.
• The complex dynamics of relationships between sect leaders, masters, and disciples.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su and the Sect Leader: Zhang Su respectfully declines the Sect Leader's invitation to participate in the tournament, revealing his advancement to the Danjin stage.
• Zhang Su and Master Zhao Qianfeng: Zhang Su bows to his master, and Zhao Qianfeng feels proud and satisfied with his disciple's achievements.
• The Ten Martial Vein Masters and elders: They express envy and regret for not having taken Zhang Su as their disciple, while Qu Zhengliu and Tuoba Cangshu harbor resentment due to past events.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Su reaches the Baodan stage in less than seven months, astonishing the sect leaders and elders.
• Meng Shouzhen, the Sect Leader, proposes that Zhang Su should participate in the Three Sects Heroes Gathering to complete the second phase of the Heavenly Pride Trial.
• Zhang Su agrees to participate in the gathering to defeat a Gangjin martial artist, which will solidify his status as a Heavenly Pride.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su: Shows exceptional cultivation speed and combat prowess, reaching the Baodan stage and being considered for the Heavenly Pride Trial.
• Zhao Qianfeng: Feels immense pride and satisfaction as his disciple's potential is recognized, but remains cautious about celebrating too early.
• Meng Shouzhen: Recognizes Zhang Su's talent and sees him as a potential revivalist patriarch for the Guiyuan Sect.
• Qu Zhengliu and Tuoba Cangshu: Feel regret and conflicted about Zhang Su's potential, knowing that he could have brought glory to their peaks if they had nurtured him.

Significant Themes

• Recognition of talent: The sect leaders and elders finally acknowledge Zhang Su's exceptional abilities and his potential to become a Heavenly Pride.
• Cultivation speed vs. combat prowess: Zhang Su's rapid cultivation speed is matched by his formidable combat prowess, making him a unique talent.
• The Heavenly Pride Trial: The trial is presented as a challenging but fair way to assess a disciple's potential and determine their eligibility for becoming a Heavenly Pride.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su and Zhao Qianfeng: Master and disciple share a moment of pride and understanding, with Zhao Qianfeng expressing his satisfaction in Zhang Su's growth.
• Meng Shouzhen and the Ten Martial Vein Masters: The Sect Leader discusses Zhang Su's potential with the elders, who express their surprise and support for his recognition as a Heavenly Pride.
• Qu Zhengliu and Tuoba Cangshu: The peak masters feel regret and conflicted emotions about Zhang Su's potential, knowing that they could have nurtured him to greater heights if they had given him a chance.

Chapter Summary: "Pure Yang Nine-Union Divine Art Completion; Even at Baodan, He Could Still Fight for First Place!"

Key Plot Points & Events

• Zhao Qianfeng gives Zhang Su the final three divine arts—the Three Extremes Divine Arts: Outer Extreme, Inner Extreme, and Wuji—completing the Pure Yang Nine-Union Divine Art. He warns they must be cultivated sequentially (Outer → Inner → Wuji), tied to Gangjin stages: Outer Gang, Inner Gang, and Inner-Outer Unity.
• Zhang Su spends 27 Compatibility Points to raise all three to 100%, but only the Outer Extreme responds—the others are locked behind cultivation realm restrictions.
• After several hours of failed attempts, Zhang Su asks Zhao Qianfeng for speed-enhancing methods. His master introduces him to the Flying Knife Technique, a hidden weapon art that sharpens Internal Force control and helps cultivate Gangjin.
• Zhang Su master the Flying Knife Technique to completion in mere hours, controlling four flying knives simultaneously. This noticeably improves his Internal Force control, meaning the Outer Extreme will now progress far faster.
• Zhao Qianfeng explains the Three Sects Heroes Gathering reward: the Azure Wood Spirit Pill, jointly obtained from the Haojin Upper Sect, which grants a trace of Spirit Essence within Internal Force—a massive aid for future Innate breakthrough.
• Although Zhao Qianfeng advises Zhang Su to settle for defeating a single Gangjin martial artist, Zhang Su privately decides to compete for first place, relying on the hidden power of his Baodan realm's hundredfold-strength Danjin.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su: Demonstrates unwavering ambition, quick learning, and strategic use of his system. Shows humility and gratitude while quietly resolving to surpass expectations and compete for the Azure Wood Spirit Pill.
• Zhao Qianfeng: Basking in his disciple's glory, he feels both proud and slightly lonely, recognizing he has little left to teach Zhang Su. Expresses regret that Zhang Su's low cultivation limits his chances, revealing his genuine care.

Significant Themes

• Master-Disciple Bond: Zhao Qianfeng's pride and Zhang Su's sincere gratitude show mutual respect and loyalty that transcend actual combat instruction.
• Breaking Bottlenecks Through Unconventional Means: Using the Flying Knife Technique to accelerate Gangjin training highlights the value of cross-domain practice and clever short-cuts.
• Ambition vs. Prudence: Zhao Qianfeng counsels restraint; Zhang Su eyes the impossible—fighting for first place despite being the lowest realm competitor.
• Cultivation Hierarchy: The chapter explains the Gangjin stages and introduces the Houtian/Innate realms, as well as the Haojin Upper Sect's dominance, expanding the world-building and showing how rare and precious the Azure Wood Spirit Pill is.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su & Zhao Qianfeng: A warm, respectful exchange. Zhao Qianfeng gives Zhang Su guidance and limited resources but admits his teaching ability is nearly exhausted. Zhang Su repeatedly bows in genuine gratitude, showing profound filial respect toward his master.
• Zhao Qianfeng's recollection of other disciples: He notes that many who chase shortcuts fail, contrasting ordinary cultivators' struggles with Zhang Su's natural talent and system-assisted genius.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Three Sects Exchange Conference begins, with the Martial Arts Arena filled with spectators from the Guiyuan Sect, Medicine Valley, Five Elements Sect, and wandering martial artists.
• Zhang Su arrives, drawing attention and skepticism from the crowd regarding his alleged feat of using Huajin to defeat a Baodan master.
• The top three in the tournament for those below the Danjin stage will receive a Condensing Force Pill, which can increase the success rate of Baodan by thirty percent.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su's reputation has grown significantly, and he is now considered a major highlight of the conference. However, many doubt his alleged feat.
• Mo Tinghong, Xie Guanchao, and Zhou Peng envy Zhang Su's potential to secure a Condensing Force Pill and reach Baodan.
• Ye Ling (Medicine Valley) and Zhou Dingshan (Five Elements Sect) acknowledge Zhang Su's talent but do not consider him a threat in the conference.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics and rivalries between the three sects and wandering martial artists.
• The importance of resources and opportunities in cultivating martial arts skills.
• The impact of reputation and expectations on individual growth and self-perception.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su reunites with Xie Guanchao, Zhou Peng, and Mo Tinghong, and they discuss the tournament for those below the Danjin stage.
• Zhang Su reveals that he has not signed up for the tournament, surprising his friends.
• Ye Ling and Zhou Dingshan exchange glances, acknowledging each other as main rivals in the conference.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Su enters the ring for the Three Sects Heroes Gathering, revealing he has reached the Baodan stage and ascended to the Danjin Realm.
• Han Guiyi wins first place in the Great Competition Below Danjin Realm, showcasing his Divine Intent and solidifying the Guiyuan Sect's first place position.
• Mo Tingzhu decides to let Bai Xuan join the Guiyuan Sect, hoping for a better future for her.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su: Confirms his Baodan cultivation and Danjin Realm ascension, surprising everyone.
• Han Guiyi: Proves his strength by winning the Great Competition Below Danjin Realm and demonstrating his Divine Intent.
• Mo Tingzhu: Accepts Bai Xuan's future in the Guiyuan Sect, showing maturity and selflessness.
• Bai Xuan: Agrees to join the Guiyuan Sect, marking a new chapter in her life.

Significant Themes

• The pursuit of martial arts cultivation and the desire for self-improvement.
• The importance of mentorship and guidance in one's martial arts journey.
• The impact of personal growth on one's decisions and the lives of those around them.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su interacts with Xie Guanchao, Zhou Peng, and Mo Tingzhu, revealing his Baodan cultivation and causing shock and awe.
• Mo Tingzhu interacts with Bai Xuan, making the decision for her to join the Guiyuan Sect, showing his care and concern for her future.
• Han Guiyi interacts with Zhou Peng, defeating him and showcasing his Divine Intent, solidifying his status as the strongest Huajin martial artist in the Guiyuan Sect.

• Zhang Su's first match is against Zhou Yue, a renowned pugilist at the peak of Danjin. Despite Zhou Yue's reputation, Zhang Su defeats him in a single strike using the Nine Shadows Sword Technique, demonstrating his overwhelming speed and power.
• The crowd is astonished by Zhang Su's strength, and the disciples of the other sects begin to take notice of him. Zhang Su's subsequent matches follow a similar pattern, with him easily defeating Baodan opponents in a single strike.
• The Five Elements Sect and Medicine Valley disciples grow dissatisfied, believing that the Guiyuan Sect is favoring Zhang Su by arranging his matches against Baodan opponents. They anticipate that Zhang Su's luck will run out in the top eight, where he will have to face a peak Gangjin martial artist.
• In the top eight draw, Zhang Su's opponent is revealed to be Zhou Dingshan, a peak Gangjin martial artist from the Five Elements Sect. The crowd is surprised and anticipates an intense battle between the two.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Su draws Chu Hanjiang, a peak Gangjin martial artist with unified internal and external strength, in the top eight match.
• Chu Hanjiang attacks first with his Spring Rain Sword Technique, which Zhang Su blocks with his Wind-Thunder Sword Technique.
• Zhang Su's sword fails to pierce Chu Hanjiang's Gangjin, but he counters with the Twelve-Fold Killing Sword, breaking through Chu Hanjiang's Gangjin and winning the match.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su: Proves his strength and skill, dispelling doubts about his luck and reaching the top eight.
• Chu Hanjiang: Loses to Zhang Su, suffering a significant blow to his reputation and prestige.
• Many spectators: Realize the depth of Zhang Su's abilities and the inaccuracy of their previous assessments.

Significant Themes

• The power of skill and technique over brute force and cultivation level.
• The importance of not underestimating opponents.
• The impact of defeat on a martial artist's reputation and future prospects.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su vs. Chu Hanjiang: A tense and skillful duel, with Zhang Su ultimately emerging victorious.
• Spectators vs. Zhang Su: Initial underestimation and disbelief give way to shock and respect as Zhang Su's true abilities are revealed.

Summary

• Zhang Su defeats Chu Hanjiang, a peak Gangjin expert, with Danjin cultivation, causing a sensation in the Jianghu.
• Zhang Su's feat is compared to the deeds of Upper Sect Heavenly Prides, sparking a heated debate between Guiyuan Sect Leader Meng Shouzhen and Five Elements Sect Leader Zhong Taiheng.
• Zhang Su is revealed to be an Inner Sect Heavenly Pride, the fourth in the Guiyuan Sect's history.
• Zhang Su's quarterfinal match against Chu Hanjiang is recounted in detail, highlighting his aggressive sword technique and formidable strength.
• Zhang Su's status as a Sect Prodigy is confirmed, causing excitement among his peers.
• The semi-finals begin, with Zhang Su drawing Ye Ling as his opponent.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Su faces Ye Ling in the semi-finals.
• Ye Ling uses her Nine Spirits Sword Technique, stacking power with each sword, but Zhang Su withstands six swords.
• Zhang Su defeats Ye Ling, advancing to the finals.
• Zhou Dingshan defeats Han Zhiyuan, setting up the final match against Zhang Su.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su demonstrates his deep Internal Force, withstanding Ye Ling's powerful sword technique.
• Ye Ling, despite her powerful technique, loses to Zhang Su, revealing her regret and unwillingness.
• Zhou Dingshan shows confidence and strength, defeating Han Zhiyuan and challenging Zhang Su.

Significant Themes

• The power of Internal Force and its depth.
• The stacking power of the Nine Spirits Sword Technique.
• The determination and unwillingness to accept defeat.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su and Ye Ling clash, with Ye Ling's powerful sword technique ultimately failing to defeat Zhang Su.
• Zhou Dingshan challenges Zhang Su, expressing his confidence in winning the Azure Wood Spirit Pill.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Su reaches the final match against Zhou Dingshan from the Five Elements Sect.
• Zhang Su uses various sword techniques (Nine Shadows, Wind-Thunder, Light Shadow Killing, Twelve-Fold Killing, Triple Wave) but can't break Zhou Dingshan's Four Elements Fusion Gangjin.
• Zhang Su decides to use the Explosive Sword Style, a life-or-death strike that drains all his Internal Force.
• Zhang Su's Explosive Sword Style breaks Zhou Dingshan's Gangjin and kills him in a single strike.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su: Shows incredible talent and determination, pushing his limits to defeat a stronger opponent. He's willing to risk his life to win.
• Zhou Dingshan: Confident in his defense, he underestimates Zhang Su's final strike and pays the price. His death serves as a reminder that overconfidence can be fatal.

Significant Themes

• The power of determination and pushing one's limits.
• The dangers of overconfidence and underestimating opponents.
• The consequences of life-or-death decisions in combat.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su and Zhou Dingshan: Their intense rivalry and mutual respect drive the final match. Zhou Dingshan's underestimation of Zhang Su's final strike leads to his demise.
• Zhang Su and Sect Leaders: Zhang Su seeks permission from Sect Leader Meng Shouzhen to use a potentially lethal strike, while Sect Leader Zhong Taiheng assures Zhang Su that casualties are unavoidable in arena sparring.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Su kills Zhou Dingshan with a single sword strike, becoming the champion of the Three Sects Heroes Gathering.
• Meng Shouzhen announces Zhang Su as the Guiyuan Sect's Heavenly Pride, causing a sensation among the martial arts world.
• Zhang Su is summoned to the Sect Main Hall, where Meng Shouzhen presents him with his Heavenly Pride Token and outlines the responsibilities and privileges that come with his new status.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su's reputation and status grow significantly after his victory and promotion to Heavenly Pride.
• Meng Shouzhen's faith in Zhang Su strengthens, leading him to place high hopes on Zhang Su's potential to revitalize the Guiyuan Sect.
• The other Heavenly Pride, Yu Hualong, is largely forgotten amidst the excitement over Zhang Su's rise, and his future prospects seem uncertain.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics and politics within the Guiyuan Sect, as reflected in the reactions of the Ten Martial Vein Masters and other elders to Zhang Su's promotion.
• The expectations and responsibilities that come with being a Heavenly Pride, as emphasized by Meng Shouzhen's speech to Zhang Su.
• The potential for Zhang Su to revitalize the Guiyuan Sect and overcome the Bianxing Sect's Heavenly Pride, Shi Buyi, highlighting the theme of hope and redemption.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su's interactions with Meng Shouzhen reflect the respect and trust between a sect leader and his Heavenly Pride.
• The reactions of the Ten Martial Vein Masters and other elders to Zhang Su's promotion showcase the complex dynamics of power and influence within the Guiyuan Sect.
• The absence of Yu Hualong from the scene and the lack of mention of his name suggest a shifting of focus and expectations onto Zhang Su.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Su enters seclusion on his newly chosen peak, Pure Yang Peak.
• He plans to cultivate the Outer Extreme Divine Art to perfection in three months to reach Gangjin.
• Zhang Su brings Zhou Peng and Xie Guanchao to Pure Yang Peak to manage daily affairs.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su: Becomes more determined to increase his cultivation speed, chooses a peak, and enters seclusion.
• Zhou Peng and Xie Guanchao: Join Zhang Su's team, becoming part of his personal force, and are given responsibility for managing Pure Yang Peak.

Significant Themes

• Cultivation and personal growth: Zhang Su's focus on increasing his cultivation speed and reaching Gangjin.
• Influence and personal force: The importance of having a personal team to support a prodigy's rise within the sect.
• Trust and responsibility: Zhang Su entrusts Zhou Peng and Xie Guanchao with managing Pure Yang Peak, testing their capabilities.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su and Zhou Peng: Zhang Su entrusts Zhou Peng with managing Pure Yang Peak, showing trust in his abilities.
• Zhang Su and Xie Guanchao: Zhang Su brings Xie Guanchao to Pure Yang Peak, acknowledging his potential and willingness to serve.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Jingyuan Sect invades the south, crossing Weiling Mountain and defeating the Five Elements Sect.
• The Three Sects Alliance is formed to resist the Jingyuan Sect, but suffers five consecutive defeats.
• The Jingyuan Sect proposes a Battle of Prodigies, with no quarter given, to decide the outcome of the war.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su emerges from seclusion, having perfected the Outer Extreme Divine Art and reached the Gangjin realm.
• Yu Hualong, a Heavenly Pride of the Guiyuan Sect, requests to meet Zhang Su.

Significant Themes

• The struggle for resources and recognition among Heavenly Prides.
• The delicate balance between the three sects and the threat posed by the Jingyuan Sect.
• The importance of prodigies in determining the future of a sect.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su, Xie Guanchao, and Zhou Peng discuss the recent events and Yu Hualong's request to meet.
• Zhang Su decides to visit Hualong Peak to meet Yu Hualong, while Xie Guanchao and Zhou Peng express concern for his safety.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yu Hualong, Guiyuan Sect's prodigy, is set to challenge Jingyuan Sect's prodigy in a fight to the death, representing the Three Sects Alliance.
• Zhang Su, Guiyuan Sect's Inner Sect Heavenly Pride, visits Hualong Peak to meet Yu Hualong, showing respect and support.
• Yu Hualong entrusts the sect's future to Zhang Su, expressing his hope that they will support each other if he does not return.
• Zhang Su seeks guidance from Zhao Qianfeng, who recommends the Unity Sword Technique, which Zhang Su successfully initiates and perfects.

Character Developments

• Yu Hualong: Shows maturity, responsibility, and selflessness in his determination to challenge Jingyuan Sect's prodigy, putting the sect's needs above his own.
• Zhang Su: Demonstrates respect and support for Yu Hualong, showing growth and understanding of his role as a prodigy. He also successfully initiates and perfects the Unity Sword Technique.

Significant Themes

• Responsibility and sacrifice for the sect: Both Yu Hualong and Zhang Su show a deep sense of responsibility towards their sect, with Yu Hualong even willing to risk his life for it.
• The power of unity: The Unity Sword Technique emphasizes blending different sword techniques together, reflecting the strength that can come from unity and cooperation.

Character Interactions

• Yu Hualong and Zhang Su: Despite their initial differences, they show mutual respect and support, understanding the importance of unity and cooperation in the face of adversity.
• Zhang Su and Zhao Qianfeng: Zhang Su seeks guidance from Zhao Qianfeng, demonstrating his humility and willingness to learn, while Zhao Qianfeng shows pride and satisfaction in his disciple's growth.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Three Sects Alliance suffered a crushing defeat against Jingyuan Sect, with their prodigies badly injured.
• Zhang Su, in seclusion for three months, is rumored to have reached Inner Gang in his cultivation.
• The Guiyuan Sect is planning to send Zhang Su to the Upper Sect for the disciple recruitment, hoping he can become a personal disciple there to secure the sect's future.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su: Continues to cultivate diligently, aiming to reach the Houtian Realm as soon as possible.
• Meng Shouzhen (Guiyuan Sect Leader): Desperate to secure the sect's future, he plans to send Zhang Su to the Upper Sect and uses the sect's three-thousand-year Ice Lotus to aid him.

Significant Themes

• Cultivation and Talent: Zhang Su's exceptional cultivation speed and talent are emphasized, setting him apart from other disciples.
• Desperation and Hopes: The sect's dire situation leads to desperation, but also hope in Zhang Su's potential to save the sect.
• Legacy and Preservation: The sect's focus shifts from immediate threats to long-term survival, highlighting the importance of preserving their legacy.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su and Zhou Peng: Zhou Peng updates Zhang Su on the Three Sects Alliance's defeat and the sect's plan to send him to the Upper Sect.
• Meng Shouzhen and the Elders: The sect leader discusses the sect's dire situation and plans to send Zhang Su to the Upper Sect with the elders, leading to heated debates.

Chapter Summary: “Farewell, Yu Hualong!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Guiyuan Sect debates whether to give its precious Three-Thousand-Year Ice Lotus to Zhang Su so he can travel to the Upper Sect’s Primordial Unity Peak.
• Elder Qu Zhengliu, who had once rejected Zhang Su, strongly supports the decision after revealing that Zhang Su advanced from his first Blood Qi to Gangjin in less than two years.
• All Ten Martial Vein Masters and the other elders eventually agree. Eleven disciples will leave for the Upper Sect in three days.
• Zhang Su’s strength has advanced significantly over the past three months:
  • He has entered the Inner Gang stage.
  • His Inner Extreme Divine Art has reached perfection.
  • His Wuji Divine Art has reached major accomplishment.
  • His Fast Sword and Heavy Sword Styles have grown substantially stronger.
  • His Martial Dao True Intent has risen to 17%.
• Zhang Su has also begun building Pure Yang Peak’s foundation, accepting talented figures such as Lu Tianqing and Han Guiyi.
• Sect Leader Meng Shouzhen privately explains the Guiyuan Sect’s desperate situation. The Jingyuan Sect has repeatedly defeated the Three Sects Alliance and possesses overwhelming strength.
• The only reliable way to protect Guiyuan Sect is for someone to become a personal disciple of the Upper Sect. Since Zhang Su has not yet reached the Postnatal Realm, the sect will use the Three-Thousand-Year Ice Lotus to secure him a position as a Registered Disciple of Primordial Unity Peak.
• Zhang Su learns that the Pure Yang Nine-Union Divine Art originated from Primordial Unity Peak. Meng warns him not to combine the nine forces and advance to the Postnatal Realm before reaching the Upper Sect.
• Zhang Su accepts the responsibility and agrees to go, realizing that the entire sect’s survival has been placed on his shoulders.
• Before departing, Zhang Su visits Yu Hualong. Yu has recovered from his battle with the Jingyuan Sect’s prodigy Jiang Tianze, but has lost his right thumb.
• Yu explains that he, Lu Danxi, and Shi Buyi fought Jiang Tianze together but were defeated within thirty moves. Shi Buyi sacrificed himself to help Yu and Lu Danxi escape.
• Despite losing his thumb and abandoning his established saber path, Yu remains determined to rebuild his strength through fists, palms, or left-handed saber techniques. He plans to remain behind and guard the Guiyuan Sect while Zhang Su seeks advancement in the Upper Sect.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su: Grows from an exceptionally talented disciple into the Guiyuan Sect’s central hope. He accepts not only the benefits of being a Sect Prodigy but also the responsibility of protecting his school. His emotional attachment to his master, friends, and sect becomes clear.
• Qu Zhengliu: Overcomes his previous prejudice against Zhang Su and admits that he misjudged him. His support reflects both personal growth and recognition of Zhang Su’s importance.
• Meng Shouzhen: Reveals the severity of the sect’s crisis and entrusts Zhang Su with the future of Guiyuan Sect. His decision shows desperation but also deep faith in Zhang Su.
• Yu Hualong: Suffers a devastating physical and martial setback after losing his thumb, yet remains calm and resilient. He accepts that his former saber mastery must be rebuilt from the beginning and takes on the role of protecting the sect.
• Zhao Qianfeng: Feels pride in Zhang Su’s opportunity but worries about the dangers and competition of the Upper Sect, showing his concern as Zhang Su’s master.

Significant Themes

• Responsibility accompanying talent: Zhang Su’s exceptional gifts come with the burden of preserving his entire sect.
• Sacrifice for one’s home: The Guiyuan Sect gives up its greatest treasure to send Zhang Su away, while Yu Hualong sacrifices his future prospects and remains behind to defend the sect.
• Belonging and loyalty: Zhang Su realizes that Guiyuan Sect is no longer merely the place where he trains; it has become his home.
• Resilience after defeat: Yu Hualong’s determination to begin again despite losing his thumb reflects the chapter’s emphasis on perseverance.
• Hope amid crisis: Although the Guiyuan Sect is vastly weaker than the Jingyuan Sect, it places its final hope in Zhang Su’s potential to rise within the Upper Sect.

Character Interactions

• Qu Zhengliu persuades the elders to support Zhang Su by emphasizing his unprecedented cultivation speed.
• Meng Shouzhen and Zhang Su discuss the sect’s danger, the Upper Sect’s selection process, and Zhang Su’s special mission.
• Zhang Su’s memories of Zhao Qianfeng, Zhou Peng, Xie Guanchao, and Yu Hualong reinforce the relationships motivating his decision.
• Yu Hualong and Zhang Su candidly discuss Jiang Tianze’s terrifying strength and the future of Guiyuan Sect.
• Their farewell establishes a partnership: Zhang Su will seek advancement in the Upper Sect, while Yu Hualong remains behind to protect their shared home.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Su bids farewell to his master, Zhao Qianfeng, and the Guiyuan Sect.
• The group of disciples and elders from the Guiyuan Sect, Medicine Valley, and the Five Elements Sect gather at Thunder Family Fortress before setting off together for the Upper Sect.
• Shi Buyi, the prodigy of the Five Elements Sect, meets Zhang Su and challenges him to a fight once he reaches the Houtian Realm.
• Lu Danxi, the prodigy of Medicine Valley, gifts Zhang Su Fire Yang Pills to aid in his cultivation.
• The combined group arrives at Vast Gold City, where they encounter Jiang Tianze, the prodigy of the Jingyuan Sect.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su demonstrates his growth and maturity by handling his affairs in the Guiyuan Sect before leaving.
• Shi Buyi shows his confidence and arrogance by challenging Zhang Su to a fight in the future.
• Lu Danxi displays her generosity and confidence in her pill-refining skills by giving Zhang Su Fire Yang Pills.
• Jiang Tianze's tyrannical aura and presence hint at his formidable strength and status.

Significant Themes

• The theme of competition and rivalry among the sects' prodigies is further emphasized, with Shi Buyi challenging Zhang Su and the encounter with Jiang Tianze.
• The theme of growth and improvement is shown through Zhang Su's cultivation progress and his handling of sect affairs before leaving.
• The theme of unity and cooperation among the three sects is highlighted as they travel together to the Upper Sect.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su and Shi Buyi have a tense interaction, with Shi Buyi challenging Zhang Su to a fight in the future.
• Zhang Su and Lu Danxi have a friendly interaction, with Lu Danxi gifting him Fire Yang Pills.
• The elders and disciples of the three sects interact with each other, showing a mix of tension, cooperation, and mutual respect.
• Zhang Su and Yu Hualong continue to show a friendly and respectful relationship, with Yu Hualong warning Zhang Su about Shi Buyi's challenge.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Three Sects Alliance encounters the Jingyuan Sect at the gates of Vast Gold City. Jiang Tianze, a prodigy of the Jingyuan Sect, humiliates the Three Sects Alliance, but Shi Buyi remains calm and composed.
• Zhang Su and Zhong Wangji visit the Yao Family, seeking an audience with the Third Ancestor to secure a spot for Zhang Su as a nominal disciple of Primordial Unity Peak. They are received by Meng Yun, the Madam of the Fifth Branch, who is the daughter of the Guiyuan Sect's Sect Leader.
• Zhang Su and Yao Peiyu encounter Yao Ruohua of the Third Branch, who provokes Zhang Su into a fight. Zhang Su remains indifferent, but later admits to Yao Peiyu that he could defeat the two Gangjin martial artists with Yao Ruohua.
• Zhong Wangji and Zhang Su leave to meet the Third Ancestor, while Meng Yun and Yao Peiyu discuss the possibility of Zhang Su staying in the Upper Sect.

Character Developments

• Jiang Tianze: Shows arrogance and disdain towards the Three Sects Alliance, but holds Shi Buyi in high regard.
• Shi Buyi: Remains calm and composed in the face of Jiang Tianze's provocation, showing strong self-control and inner pride.
• Zhang Su: Demonstrates restraint and indifference when provoked by Yao Ruohua, showing self-control and maturity. He also expresses confidence in his ability to defeat the two Gangjin martial artists.
• Meng Yun: Shows concern for the Guiyuan Sect and hopes that Zhang Su can stay in the Upper Sect to strengthen her position within the Yao Family.

Significant Themes

• Prodigies and Pride: The chapter explores the pride and arrogance of prodigies, with Jiang Tianze and Shi Buyi serving as examples. Zhang Su also displays a quiet confidence in his abilities.
• Endurance and Self-Control: Zhang Su and Shi Buyi both show remarkable self-control and endurance in the face of provocation, highlighting the importance of these qualities in the cultivation world.
• Family and Backing: Meng Yun's desire for Zhang Su to stay in the Upper Sect highlights the importance of family and backing in the cultivation world, as it could strengthen her position within the Yao Family.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Su and Yao Peiyu: The two interact briefly, with Yao Peiyu asking Zhang Su about the Guiyuan Sect and Zhang Su revealing his confidence in defeating the two Gangjin martial artists.
• Meng Yun and Zhong Wangji: The two reminisce about the past and discuss the possibility of Zhang Su staying in the Upper Sect.
• Yao Ruohua and Zhang Su: Yao Ruohua provokes Zhang Su into a fight, but Zhang Su remains indifferent, showing restraint and self-control.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhong Wangji brings Zhang Su to meet Yao Yuanji, the Third Ancestor of the Yao Family and a Xiantian Grandmaster of Primordial Unity Peak.
• Zhong explains that Zhang Su has cultivated the Pure Yang Nine-Union Divine Art to the impressive level of eight unions into one and asks for Zhang Su to be accepted as a Registered Disciple of Primordial Unity Peak.
• Yao Yuanji initially indicates that entry into the Upper Sect cannot be obtained through a simple request. Zhong Wangji therefore presents the Guiyuan Sect’s most precious treasure: a Three-Thousand-Year Ice Lotus.
• Yao Yuanji is visibly pleased by the treasure and offers two options: he can present it to the Peak Master for a formal favor, or accept it himself and arrange Zhang Su’s entry. The latter would place Zhang Su under the Yao Family’s protection, though it could also involve him in the family’s conflicts.
• Following Sect Leader Meng Shouzhen’s instructions, Zhong Wangji gives the Ice Lotus directly to Yao Yuanji. Yao agrees to secure Zhang Su’s Registered Disciple position after the current Upper Sect Selection concludes.
• Back at the Yao Family’s Fifth Branch, Meng Yun is relieved and welcomes the prospect of having Zhang Su remain nearby in the Upper Sect. Zhong Wangji urges Zhang Su to cultivate diligently and eventually become strong enough to protect the Guiyuan Sect.
• Zhang Su returns to Hongyun Inn and spends three days cultivating the Wuji Divine Art. With the help of Fire Yang Pills, he advances rapidly and estimates that he is only about ten days from reaching the Perfected Realm.
• The Upper Sect Selection takes place. Yu Hualong and the other nine Guiyuan Sect disciples are all eliminated; none qualify even as Official Disciples.
• In contrast, Lu Danxi of Medicine Valley becomes an Official Disciple of Danwu Peak, and Shi Buyi of the Five Elements Sect becomes an Official Disciple of Wanxiang Peak. Jiang Tianze of the Jingyuan Sect nearly becomes a personal disciple of Tianjian Peak and appears likely to achieve that status in the future.
• The defeat devastates the Guiyuan Sect and places the Three Sects Alliance under even greater pressure.
• At the chapter’s end, a servant from Primordial Unity Peak arrives and personally delivers Zhang Su’s Registered Disciple token. Zhang Su is ordered to report to Primordial Unity Peak at dawn the following day, astonishing everyone present.

Character Developments

• Zhang Su demonstrates composure, humility, and exceptional talent. He respectfully faces a Xiantian Grandmaster, accepts the consequences of joining the Yao Family faction, and remains focused on cultivation while everyone else anxiously awaits the selection results.
• Zhong Wangji makes a major sacrifice for Zhang Su and the Guiyuan Sect by giving away their Three-Thousand-Year Ice Lotus. His behavior shows both deep responsibility and hope that Zhang Su will eventually become powerful enough to support the sect.
• Yao Yuanji shifts from distant and reserved to noticeably cordial after receiving the Ice Lotus, revealing his interest in both the treasure and Zhang Su’s potential.
• Meng Yun is relieved and encouraged by Zhang Su’s impending stay in the Upper Sect. His presence gives her a trusted connection to the Guiyuan Sect within the Yao Family.
• Yu Hualong suffers a final setback: nearing forty, this was his last opportunity to enter the Upper Sect, and he is eliminated along with the other Guiyuan Sect disciples. He nevertheless remains relatively calm.
• Lu Danxi and Shi Buyi achieve modest success by becoming Official Disciples, while Jiang Tianze emerges as the overwhelming rival whose talent threatens the future prospects of all three allied sects.

Significant Themes

• Sacrifice for the sect: The Guiyuan Sect relinquishes its greatest treasure to preserve even a single path into the Upper Sect.
• Power and influence: Advancement depends not only on talent but also on alliances, factional backing, and valuable resources. Zhang Su’s connection to the Yao Family may prove as important as his martial ability.
• Hope amid decline: The Guiyuan Sect’s complete failure in the selection highlights its weakness, while Zhang Su’s acceptance offers its only remaining source of hope.
• Talent versus institutional opportunity: Lu Danxi and Shi Buyi remain in the Upper Sect as Official Disciples, but Jiang Tianze’s near-selection as a personal disciple shows how difficult it is for ordinary advancement to compete with truly exceptional genius.
• The burden of expectation: Zhang Su is no longer cultivating solely for himself; the entire Guiyuan Sect expects him to rise quickly and eventually protect its future.

Important Character Interactions

• Zhong Wangji carefully coaches Zhang Su before their meeting with Yao Yuanji, emphasizing the danger and importance of showing respect.
• Zhong Wangji negotiates with Yao Yuanji, using the Ice Lotus to secure Zhang Su’s entry and choosing family protection over a more impersonal arrangement with the Peak Master.
• Zhang Su and Zhong Wangji share mutual respect, with Zhang Su thanking the elder and Zhong Wangji entrusting him with the Guiyuan Sect’s future.
• Meng Yun expresses concern for Zhang Su and offers him a place to seek help once he enters Primordial Unity Peak.
• The failed disciples return to an anxious inn, where their defeat contrasts sharply with the achievements of Lu Danxi, Shi Buyi, and Jiang Tianze.
• The delivery of Zhang Su’s token abruptly changes the mood: while the Guiyuan Sect has just suffered total elimination, Zhang Su is unexpectedly granted a path into Primordial Unity Peak, leaving every faction stunned.

• Zhang Su arrives at Primordial Unity Peak and meets Luo Feng, a fellow Registered Disciple who has been there for years.
• Zhang Su learns that Registered Disciples are not allowed to practice martial arts and must serve Official Disciples instead.
• Luo Feng tells Zhang Su that the only way to become a Personal Disciple is to possess Xiantian Combat Power, a nearly impossible feat for most Registered Disciples.
• Zhang Su is shocked and disheartened by the realization that his path to becoming a Personal Disciple is much harder than he thought.