Ch. 21The Oath
Key Plot Points and Events
- Xu Lanqing, injured and helpless, faces the Ice Empress in her ice-crystal palace.
- He attempts to persuade her to accept human help for her rebirth, arguing that it's her only chance to live and become stronger.
- He reveals that he and his teacher have created a method for spirit masters to obtain spirit rings without hunting spirit beasts, aiming to reduce conflict between humans and spirit beasts.
Character Developments
- Xu Lanqing: Shows courage, wisdom, and sincerity in his attempt to convince the Ice Empress. He demonstrates a deep understanding of spirit beasts and their struggles, displaying empathy and a desire to help.
- Ice Empress: Initially proud and prejudiced against humans, she begins to waver and consider Xu Lanqing's words. She shows concern for her fellow soul beasts and the Ice Empress of the Far North.
Significant Themes
- Prejudice and Trust: The Ice Empress's prejudice against humans is a significant barrier to her accepting their help. Xu Lanqing aims to bridge this gap by appealing to her desire to live and her responsibility towards her kind.
- Opportunity and Sacrifice: The Ice Empress must decide whether to seize the opportunity for rebirth, knowing it may require trusting humans and potentially sacrificing her pride.
- Responsibility and Leadership: The Ice Empress's concern for her subjects and the Ice Empress of the Far North highlights her sense of responsibility as a leader.
Character Interactions
- Xu Lanqing and Ice Empress: Their interaction is tense yet profound. Xu Lanqing's sincerity and understanding challenge the Ice Empress's prejudices, while she remains wary of human deception.
- Xu Lanqing and Electrolux: Electrolux's divine consciousness aids Xu Lanqing, providing additional credibility to their claims and helping to convince the Ice Empress.