Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shuya returns to the station and is mistakenly attacked by his colleagues who think he's been watching adult films.
• Shuya translates for Jackie Chan, impressing everyone with his multilingual skills.
• Aoki Shin plans to invite Arnold Schwarzenegger for a role in the upcoming Morning Drama.
• Shuya seeks Jackie Chan's advice about his rapidly changing body.

Character Developments

• Shuya: Shows off his language skills, gains respect from colleagues, and seeks help for his physical abnormalities.
• Jackie Chan: Recognizes Shuya's talent, offers help, and shows expertise in qigong.

Significant Themes

• Multilingualism and cultural exchange.
• The power of first impressions and initial misunderstandings.
• The pursuit of excellence and self-improvement (Shuya's physical changes).

Character Interactions

• Shuya and Jackie Chan: Shuya impresses Jackie with his language skills, and Jackie offers help with Shuya's physical condition.
• Shuya and Mai: Mai teases Shuya about his language skills and they walk together during the tour.
• Aoki Shin and Shuya: Aoki Shin shows gratitude towards Shuya for his help with Jackie Chan.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shuya's age and height discrepancy is revealed, causing confusion and disbelief.
• A mysterious voice is heard, and Li Shuhong, a powerful and enigmatic figure, appears.
• Li Shuhong reveals that Shuya has a 'Natural Martial Bone', a constitution ideal for martial arts, and that his mental power is unusually high, likening him to a 'Reincarnated Living Buddha'.
• Shuya impulsively chases after Li Shuhong, hoping to learn from him.

Character Developments

• Shuya: Shows remarkable composure in the face of Li Shuhong's revelation and demonstrates quick thinking by chasing after him.
• Li Shuhong: Reveals his connection to Ikeda Ichinosuke and his interest in Shuya's potential.

Significant Themes

• The power of destiny and reincarnation, as hinted by Li Shuhong's comparison of Shuya to a 'Reincarnated Living Buddha'.
• The importance of seizing opportunities, as seen in Shuya's decision to chase after Li Shuhong.

Character Interactions

• Shuya and Li Shuhong: Their brief interaction sparks Li Shuhong's interest in Shuya's potential, hinting at a possible mentor-mentee relationship.
• Jackie Chan and Shuya: Jackie Chan watches Shuya's actions with envy and understanding, knowing that Shuya has seized a rare opportunity.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shuya chases Li Shuhong to learn martial arts.
• Li Shuhong agrees to teach Shuya for a month, revealing that Shuya shares the same Natural Martial Bone as Ikeda Ichinosuke, his intended successor.
• Li Shuhong reveals that superior martial arts manipulate and apply qi, which can be cultivated through intense physical training, a powerful heart, will, and intent.
• Li Shuhong confirms the existence of demons and monsters, but dismisses them as weak and unable to challenge modern technology or the state apparatus.

Character Developments

• Shuya demonstrates his determination and perseverance in pursuing martial arts.
• Li Shuhong reveals his past connection to Ikeda Ichinosuke and his intention to pass on his legacy.
• Li Shuhong displays his arrogance and confidence in his martial prowess, but also admits to feeling threatened by demons and monsters.

Significant Themes

• The decline of martial arts in a peaceful world.
• The power of will, intent, and qi in martial arts cultivation.
• The existence and nature of demons and monsters in the world.

Character Interactions

• Shuya and Li Shuhong's master-disciple relationship begins, with Li Shuhong agreeing to teach Shuya for a month.
• Li Shuhong shares his knowledge and experiences with Shuya, revealing secrets about martial arts and the world.
• Shuya and Li Shuhong engage in a conversation about demons and monsters, with Li Shuhong expressing his disdain for them while also admitting to feeling threatened.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Shuhong, an immortal martial artist, is forced to flee due to the power of demons and monsters.
• He recounts an incident where he was detained for five days after saving a woman from a vampire, as the woman later pressed charges against him.
• After his release, various monster protection organizations protest at his doorstep, forcing him to flee.

Character Developments

• Li Shuhong: Realizes the challenges of practicing martial arts in the modern world with its perfect legal system. He becomes disheartened and melancholic about the changes in society.
• Shuya: Understands the complexity of right and wrong, and the different perspectives on the changes in society.

Significant Themes

• The struggle of martial artists in the modern world.
• The complexity of right and wrong, and the different perspectives on societal changes.

Character Interactions

• Li Shuhong and Shuya: Li Shuhong shares his experiences and warns Shuya about the challenges of practicing martial arts in the modern world. Shuya both sympathizes and disagrees with Li Shuhong's perspective.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shuya reflects on the past, when Qidian was just a fanfiction platform, and his initial joy in writing.
• Li Shuhong agrees to mentor Shuya for a month to learn the Ikeda Ichinosuke school.
• Shuya returns to the television station, where Mai scolds him for leaving suddenly.
• Mai discovers Shuya's feelings for Rena and offers to help him strategize.

Character Developments

• Shuya: Shuya shows nostalgia for the past and determination in pursuing his feelings for Rena. He also demonstrates self-awareness and a desire to improve.
• Li Shuhong: Li Shuhong is portrayed as a kind and experienced mentor, willing to teach Shuya despite his initial reluctance.
• Mai: Mai evolves from a curious and gossipy friend to a reluctant but helpful confidante, offering advice on Shuya's romantic situation.

Significant Themes

• Nostalgia and Change: The chapter explores the changes in Qidian from a fanfiction platform to a professional writing community, and Shuya's longing for the past.
• Mentorship and Learning: Li Shuhong's agreement to teach Shuya highlights the importance of mentorship and learning from experienced individuals.
• Friendship and Support: Mai's decision to help Shuya, despite her reservations, underscores the value of friendship and support in navigating life's challenges.

Character Interactions

• Shuya and Li Shuhong: Their interaction shows a mutual respect and understanding, with Li Shuhong agreeing to teach Shuya and Shuya accepting Li Shuhong's guidance.
• Shuya and Mai: Their dynamic shifts from playful banter to a more serious tone as Mai learns about Shuya's feelings for Rena and agrees to help him strategize.
• Shuya and Aoki Shin/Jackie Chan: While not extensively explored in this chapter, their interactions hint at a growing camaraderie and acceptance of Shuya into their circle.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shuya decides to postpone discussing his martial arts training with Mai.
• He sees Mai home and then returns to the company to inform Inoue Hikoo about his training with Li Shuhong.
• Inoue Hikoo agrees to Shuya's training without much concern.
• Shuya buys food and snacks for the Quintuplets and spends time with them before going to bed early.
• The next morning, Shuya begins his martial arts training with Li Shuhong, who teaches him basic techniques and the concept of absorbing "Purple Qi" at dawn.

Character Developments

• Shuya shows responsibility by seeing Mai home safely, despite her protests.
• He demonstrates his dedication to his training by preparing food and snacks in advance.
• Li Shuhong reveals his teaching style to be intense and focused on fundamentals.
• Shuya shows exceptional aptitude for martial arts, picking up techniques quickly and naturally.

Significant Themes

• The power of belief and will, as discussed by Li Shuhong in relation to martial arts and the "Purple Qi."
• The importance of dedication and preparation, shown by Shuya's actions.

Character Interactions

• Shuya and Mai: Shuya shows concern for Mai's safety, while Mai is still affected by Shuya's charms.
• Shuya and Inoue Hikoo: Shuya informs his father about his training, and Inoue Hikoo shows trust in his son's decisions.
• Shuya and Li Shuhong: Li Shuhong begins teaching Shuya martial arts, revealing his teaching style and knowledge of martial arts philosophy.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shuya learns that "absorbing purple mist" is actually utilizing one's own power of intent for cultivation.
• Shuya successfully cultivates "qi" in just one week, shocking Li Shuhong.
• Shuya learns about the basics of qi cultivation from Li Shuhong.

Character Developments

• Shuya's faith in martial arts cultivation grows, leading to rapid progress.
• Li Shuhong reveals more about his knowledge and resources, showing care for Shuya's cultivation.

Significant Themes

• The power of belief and intent in cultivation.
• The unlocking of human potential through cultivation.

Character Interactions

• Shuya and Li Shuhong's master-disciple relationship deepens as Li Shuhong guides Shuya through his cultivation.
• Li Shuhong shows concern for Shuya's progress, providing resources and guidance.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shuya absorbs the medicinal power, strengthening his Qi and body.
• Li Shuhong teaches Shuya that cultivation reshapes the body, making it more perfect.
• Shuya discovers he has become much fairer and more handsome.
• Shuya practices martial arts stances with Li Shuhong until noon.
• Shuya tries on new clothes and admires his improved appearance.
• Shuya eats a bento made by Rena and goes to the gym to meet Mai.

Character Developments

• Shuya's physical body and Qi have significantly improved, making him stronger and more handsome.
• Li Shuhong is revealed to be handsome and have a good physique as well.
• Mai-chan is shown to be straightforward and somewhat clumsy, with a tendency to speak without thinking.

Significant Themes

• The benefits of cultivation on the body and appearance.
• The importance of practice and dedication in martial arts.
• The theme of friendship and companionship, as seen between Shuya and Mai.

Character Interactions

• Shuya and Li Shuhong interact as master and student, with Li Shuhong teaching Shuya about cultivation and martial arts.
• Shuya and Mai-chan interact as friends, with Mai-chan expressing envy of Shuya's progress in martial arts and Shuya teasing Mai-chan about her behavior.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The protagonist, a former hero, decides to stir up trouble to gather experiences for her novel, joining the Old Dream Court group chat.
• Shuya cultivates qi, enhancing his physical abilities, and learns about the nature of qi: essence, energy, and spirit.
• Shuya practices martial arts on the rooftop and considers jumping off buildings but decides against it.
• Shuya returns home and has dinner with the Quintuplets and Rena, engaging in their usual playful dynamic.

Character Developments

• The protagonist shows her determination to write a story, even if it means causing trouble.
• Shuya continues to develop his martial arts skills and cultivates qi, understanding its nature and limitations.
• Shuya shows restraint and wisdom in not acting recklessly despite his newfound abilities.
• Rena remains oblivious to Shuya's feelings and continues her delusional "marriage" role-play with him.

Significant Themes

• The struggle between the old and new ways of life, represented by martial arts and technology.
• The power of conviction and firm beliefs in cultivating qi.
• The theme of restraint and wisdom in the face of newfound abilities.

Character Interactions

• The protagonist interacts with Shuya, encouraging him to stir up trouble for her novel.
• Shuya interacts with Junior Sister Seisen, finding tranquility and healing in her presence.
• Shuya interacts with the Quintuplets and Rena, engaging in their usual playful dynamic and role-playing as a married couple.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shuya begins learning swordsmanship from Li Shuhong, initially using a wooden sword, then a real blade.
• He learns Iaijutsu (drawing and slashing) and practices cutting through various materials using qi.
• Li Shuhong teaches Shuya the Northland New Snow Thousand-Fold Style's light-body techniques: Snow Without Trace, Snowfall, and Flying Snow.
• Shuya uses these techniques to return home, amazed by their effectiveness.
• Mai asks Shuya about his birthday plans, offering to buy him a present.

Character Developments

• Shuya shows dedication and aptitude in learning martial arts, quickly mastering new techniques.
• Mai demonstrates thoughtfulness by remembering Shuya's birthday and offering to buy him a present.

Significant Themes

• The value of daily life and routine.
• The importance of foundation and basics in learning new skills.
• The joy of learning and self-improvement.

Character Interactions

• Shuya and Li Shuhong: Teacher-student relationship, with Li Shuhong pushing Shuya to learn quickly and efficiently.
• Shuya and Mai: Friendly banter, with Mai showing concern for Shuya's personal safety and offering to buy him a birthday present.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shuya practices his light-body technique and successfully jumps between rooftops for the first time.
• On his birthday, Shuya receives early birthday wishes from his parents via text.
• Shuya sees a woman named "Big Sister" leading a biker gang, but he pays no mind.

Character Developments

• Shuya gains confidence and skill in his light-body technique, enjoying the thrill of jumping between buildings.
• Shuya's parents, Inoue Hikoo and Hanazawa Sakura, show their love for him, albeit in their unique, carefree way.

Significant Themes

• Adventure and Thrill-seeking: Shuya finds joy and excitement in pushing his physical limits and challenging death.
• Family and Love: Despite their eccentricities, Shuya's parents express their love for him on his birthday.

Character Interactions

• Shuya interacts with his parents through text messages, expressing his gratitude for their early birthday wishes.
• Shuya observes "Big Sister" and her biker gang from a distance but chooses not to engage.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shuya arrives at the training ground where Li Shuhong awaits. Li Shuhong teaches Shuya about external qi projection, which Shuya struggles to grasp initially but eventually succeeds in doing after absorbing the Purple Qi at sunrise.
• Shuya discovers he can project both his qi and Power of Will externally. He experiments with this newfound ability before Li Shuhong stops him to begin sword training.
• On Shuya's birthday, Li Shuhong gifts him the legendary blade, First Snow, which responds to Shuya's touch and exhibits sentience.

Character Developments

• Shuya: He improves his understanding and control over his qi and Power of Will, demonstrating persistence and dedication to his training. He also shows affection for his new sword, First Snow.
• Li Shuhong: He patiently teaches Shuya and shows understanding of Shuya's aptitude. He also displays a sense of humor and fair play when his own blade, First Snow, responds more favorably to Shuya.

Significant Themes

• Training and Growth: Shuya's persistent practice and eventual success in external qi projection highlight the theme of diligent effort leading to improvement.
• Compatibility and Connection: The sentient blade, First Snow, choosing Shuya emphasizes the importance of compatibility and connection between a person and their tool or weapon.

Character Interactions

• Shuya and Li Shuhong: Their teacher-student relationship is evident as Li Shuhong patiently teaches Shuya and expresses pride in Shuya's progress. They also share a moment of camaraderie when Li Shuhong gifts Shuya First Snow.
• Shuya and First Snow: Shuya's affection for the sentient blade and the blade's response to him establish a unique connection between them.

• Shuya successfully converts his qi to the ice attribute, surprising Li Shuhong.
• Shuya starts carrying his sword, Hatsuyuki, in a cloth, planning to buy a sword bag later.
• On his birthday, Shuya receives gifts from Mai, Little Senior Sister, and Ayako Ishikawa.
• At home, Shuya finds his parents, Rena, and the Quintuplets celebrating his birthday. He receives a red envelope from his parents and a painting from the Quintuplets, which he interprets as a sign of their acknowledgment of him as their father.
• The day ends with a successful birthday party, filled with warmth and affection.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shuya completes learning the Northland New Snow Thousand-Fold Style from Li Shuhong.
• Shuya encounters a noisy biker gang disturbing the peace, led by a woman.
• Shuya considers intervening but decides against it, understanding the necessity of staying steady in his cultivation journey.

Character Developments

• Shuya: Shows restraint and maturity by not engaging with the biker gang, demonstrating his growth as a martial artist.
• Li Shuhong: Reveals his understanding of the world's dynamics and the role of martial artists in society.

Significant Themes

• The dual nature of power: Its allure and the responsibility it brings.
• The necessity of restraint and patience in cultivation and life.
• The role of martial artists in society and their choices post-World War.

Character Interactions

• Shuya and Li Shuhong: Their conversation deepens Shuya's understanding of martial arts and the world.
• Shuya and the biker gang: Shuya's internal struggle and eventual decision to avoid conflict show his character growth.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shuya tries to convince Li Shuhong to teach him more martial arts, but Li Shuhong refuses, only agreeing to teach him about the Power of Will and Strange Arts for a week.
• Li Shuhong explains the Power of Will and its cultivation methods, comparing it to stress resistance and endurance.
• Li Shuhong shares the secret history of Strange Arts, revealing that they are based on manipulating and harnessing concentrated Power of Will, often by deceiving people into believing in myths and gods.

Character Developments

• Shuya shows persistence in learning martial arts, but also understands and accepts Li Shuhong's limits in teaching him.
• Li Shuhong demonstrates his knowledge of history and Strange Arts, as well as his reluctance to teach beyond what he considers necessary.

Significant Themes

• The manipulation of belief and power dynamics, as seen in the history of Strange Arts and the creation of gods and religions.
• The pursuit of knowledge and experience as a means of cultivating the Power of Will.

Character Interactions

• Shuya and Li Shuhong's interactions show Shuya's eagerness to learn and Li Shuhong's reluctance to teach beyond a certain point, but also his willingness to share knowledge when he deems it appropriate.
• Li Shuhong's storytelling engages Shuya, highlighting their mentor-mentee dynamic and Li Shuhong's willingness to share his knowledge of history and Strange Arts.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Shuhong explains the history and nature of Strange Arts, which are based on deception and the Power of Will gathered through faith.
• Shuya learns that monsters and ghosts were once humans with special abilities who evolved due to the Power of Will.
• Li Shuhong discusses the development of Taoist Arts and the role of Talismans in borrowing the power of deities.
• Shuya starts his summer vacation, but the Quintuplets' constant presence makes it difficult for him to spend time alone with Rena.

Character Developments

• Shuya: Becomes more introspective and analytical, feeling the weight of his responsibilities towards the Quintuplets. He also feels a sense of listlessness.
• Li Shuhong: Shows his extensive knowledge about Strange Arts and their history.
• Rena: Starts her summer vacation, focusing on spending time with her daughters. She senses something amiss with Shuya but gets distracted by the Quintuplets.
• The Quintuplets: Remain energetic and playful, showing no signs of maturity. Their lack of life experiences outside the home is highlighted.

Significant Themes

• The power of belief and faith in shaping reality.
• The consequences of deception and manipulation.
• The role of life experiences in personal growth.
• The struggle between responsibility and personal desires.

Character Interactions

• Li Shuhong and Shuya: Li Shuhong shares his knowledge with Shuya, who listens attentively.
• Shuya and Rena: Shuya feels disappointed that he can't spend time alone with Rena during her vacation. Rena senses his distress but gets distracted by her daughters.
• Shuya and the Quintuplets: Shuya feels responsible for the Quintuplets' lack of growth and life experiences. The Quintuplets, however, remain oblivious to his concerns.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shuya tries to seek Mai's advice but fails due to her anger.
• Mai acts angry to avoid Shuya's relationship problems.
• Shuya starts learning talisman drawing from Li Shuhong.
• Li Shuhong demonstrates the power of a Vermilion Bird Talisman.

Character Developments

• Mai: Shows maturity and acting skills by pretending to be angry to avoid Shuya's problems.
• Shuya: Struggles with relationship issues and starts learning talisman drawing.
• Li Shuhong: Reveals his age and the extent of his Power of Will.

Significant Themes

• Relationship dynamics: Shuya's struggle with Mai's feelings and his desire for advice.
• Power of Will: The importance of a stable Power of Will in talisman drawing.
• Learning and growth: Shuya's eagerness to learn talisman drawing from Li Shuhong.

Character Interactions

• Shuya and Mai: Their interaction is strained due to Mai's pretend anger and Shuya's confusion.
• Shuya and Li Shuhong: They have a teacher-student dynamic, with Li Shuhong guiding Shuya in talisman drawing.
• Shuya and the Quintuplets: Shuya feels envious of their outing with their mother.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shuya struggles to control his Power of Will while trying to draw a Talisman, leading to a comedic explosion.
• Shuya decides to focus on training his Power of Will instead of learning Talisman drawing.
• Shuya teases Mai by using his Power of Will to manipulate her hair, leading to a playful argument.
• Shuya suggests they practice interacting like a couple to gain experience, as they're both single and inexperienced in relationships.

Character Developments

• Shuya: Shows improvement in controlling his Power of Will, remains playful and mischievous, and demonstrates a desire to learn and grow in his romantic experiences.
• Mai: Struggles with understanding romantic feelings, considers Shuya's unconventional suggestion, and shows a hint of rebellion against her mother's overprotection.

Significant Themes

• Learning and growth: Shuya's dedication to improving his Power of Will and romantic experiences.
• Relationship dynamics: Exploring the complexities of friendship, teasing, and potential romantic feelings between Shuya and Mai.

Character Interactions

• Shuya and Li Shuhong: Master and student relationship, with Li Shuhong guiding Shuya's training.
• Shuya and Mai: Playful teasing and banter, with Shuya taking advantage of Mai's curiosity and desire to learn about love.
• Mai and her mother: Mai's frustration with her mother's overbearing nature hints at potential conflict in their relationship.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shuya and Mai go on a date, starting with shopping and ending with watching a movie.
• They encounter a shop assistant who mistakes Shuya for a girl and suggests he try on women's clothing.
• Later, they meet Little Senior Sister at the cinema, leading to a tense moment between Mai and her.

Character Developments

• Shuya shows patience and understanding while accompanying Mai on her shopping spree.
• Mai displays a mischievous side, trying to get Shuya to try on women's clothing.
• Little Senior Sister reveals her shyness and discomfort around people, preferring to stay at home.

Significant Themes

• The theme of misunderstandings and assumptions, as seen in the shop assistant's mistake about Shuya's gender and Mai and Little Senior Sister's initial tension.
• The idea of acceptance and tolerance, as Shuya accepts Mai's quirks and Little Senior Sister's shyness.

Character Interactions

• Shuya and Mai's interaction is playful and friendly, with Mai trying to get Shuya to try on women's clothing and Shuya playfully squishing Mai's face in response.
• Mai and Little Senior Sister's initial interaction is tense, but they eventually greet each other politely.
• Shuya acts as a mediator between Mai and Little Senior Sister, trying to keep the peace.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shuya meets Little Senior Sister at the cinema, where she's using him as an excuse to reject a classmate.
• He introduces her to Mai, his classmate, hoping they'll become friends.
• The three watch a romance movie together, with Shuya's primary goal being to help Little Senior Sister make friends.

Character Developments

• Shuya: Shows his considerate and meddling side, wanting to help Little Senior Sister and Mai become friends.
• Little Senior Sister: Overcomes her social anxiety slightly, makes a new friend (Mai), and starts to leave her house more.
• Mai: Proves to be cooperative, intelligent, and direct, expressing her feelings straightforwardly.

Significant Themes

• Friendship and social connections.
• Overcoming social anxiety and isolation.
• The importance of helping others.

Character Interactions

• Shuya acts as a catalyst, bringing Little Senior Sister and Mai together.
• Little Senior Sister and Mai bond over their shared lack of friends and Shuya's teasing.
• Shuya shows concern for Mai's feelings after the movie, handing her a tissue and advising her to drink hot water.