Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Ming returns to Red Cloud County and learns about Feng Qingzhu's forced engagement.
• He heads to the Green Bamboo Gang headquarters to disrupt the engagement ceremony.
• Lu Ming releases Feng Qingzhu from her pressure point and offers to help her.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming: Shows determination and courage in standing up for Feng Qingzhu, demonstrating his growth and resolve.
• Feng Qingzhu: Realizes Lu Ming's true feelings for her and reciprocates, gaining confidence in herself.
• Feng Buping: Reveals his ruthless side, willing to sabotage his own daughter's happiness for personal gain.
• Liu Yiyi: Shows concern for Feng Qingzhu's well-being, indicating her own growth and maturity.

Significant Themes

• Friendship and loyalty: Lu Ming's intervention highlights his commitment to helping his friends, even in the face of powerful adversaries.
• Family dynamics: Feng Buping's actions explore the darker side of family relationships and the lengths some will go to for personal gain.
• Personal growth: Both Lu Ming and Feng Qingzhu experience personal growth, with Lu Ming demonstrating increased confidence and Feng Qingzhu gaining a newfound understanding of her own feelings.

Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and Feng Qingzhu: Their interaction reveals a deeper connection between them, with Feng Qingzhu finally acknowledging Lu Ming's feelings and Lu Ming offering his unwavering support.
• Lu Ming and Feng Buping: Their confrontation highlights the stark contrast between Lu Ming's noble intentions and Feng Buping's selfish ambition.
• Liu Yiyi and Liu Feilong: Their interaction hints at Liu Yiyi's regret over not reciprocating Lu Ming's feelings earlier, while Liu Feilong admires Lu Ming's courage but laments the missed opportunity for a potential union between their families.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Ming unseals Feng Qingzhu's acupoints, shocking Feng Buping and the assembly.
• Feng Buping confronts Lu Ming, threatening him for interfering in Feng Family affairs.
• Feng Qingzhu disowns her father, severing ties in front of the city's powerful figures.
• Lei Wanchun, the Heavenly Secret Pavilion Master, revokes Lu Ming's spy status due to incomplete mission.
• Lu Ming provokes Lei Wanchun, hinting at Qin Zhonghai's survival and escape to Black Mountain.
• Feng Buping confronts Lu Ming again, threatening him for disrupting the Green Bamboo Gang's future.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming demonstrates exceptional acupoint knowledge and remains composed under pressure, growing more assertive and confident.
• Feng Buping reveals his ambition and ruthlessness, prioritizing the Green Bamboo Gang's future over his daughter's well-being.
• Feng Qingzhu shows resolve and independence, choosing to disown her father rather than submit to an unwanted marriage alliance.
• Lei Wanchun displays cowardice and lack of loyalty, prioritizing his own safety over Qin Zhonghai's welfare.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and alliances within the city's elite families.
• The consequences of ambition and ruthlessness.
• Loyalty and betrayal among allies and family members.

Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and Feng Buping: Lu Ming stands up to Feng Buping, challenging his authority and threatening his plans.
• Feng Qingzhu and Feng Buping: Feng Qingzhu disowns her father, marking a clear break in their relationship.
• Lu Ming and Lei Wanchun: Lu Ming provokes Lei Wanchun, revealing Qin Zhonghai's survival and hinting at potential consequences.
• Lu Ming and Liu Yiyi: Liu Yiyi watches Lu Ming's interactions with concern and regret, hinting at a growing attachment.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Ming reveals his grasp of Blade Intent, shocking the experts present.
• Lu Ming declares that he will not participate in the Genius Bait project and that anyone who forces the marriage will face consequences when he enters an Orthodox Great Sect.
• Zhou Zhen accuses Lu Ming of hiding his talent and being involved in the ambush on Director Wei.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming's status as a martial arts genius is solidified after revealing his Blade Intent.
• Lei Wanchun, the Heavenly Secret Pavilion's sect leader, regrets expelling Lu Ming and fears the consequences.
• Feng Buping, the Lingyun Sect's sect leader, realizes the extent of Lu Ming's talent and regrets not nurturing him.
• Zhou Zhen, driven by jealousy and fear of Lu Ming's rising power, accuses him of hiding his talent and being involved in the ambush.

Significant Themes

• The recognition and acceptance of Lu Ming's genius by the experts.
• The consequences of underestimating and offending a true genius (Lu Ming).
• The theme of jealousy and suspicion leading to false accusations (Zhou Zhen's actions).

Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and Wei Jinlin: Lu Ming gains Wei Jinlin's admiration and support after revealing his Blade Intent.
• Lu Ming and Feng Buping: Feng Buping regrets not nurturing Lu Ming's talent and fears the consequences of his actions.
• Lu Ming and Zhou Zhen: Zhou Zhen, driven by jealousy, accuses Lu Ming of hiding his talent and being involved in the ambush on Director Wei.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Ming's blade intent provokes suspicion among experts that he might be the mole.
• Zhou Zhen, a disciple of a Third-Rate Sect, is accused by Lu Ming of being the mole due to his recent injuries and close arrival time with the Earth Dragon Beast.
• Lu Ming challenges the experts to spar with Zhou Zhen to expose the truth.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming: Stands up to Zhou Zhen, reveals his knowledge of Zhou Zhen's severe injuries, and offers to gift a Bone Forging Realm victory over an Organ-Tempering Realm expert to anyone who spars with Zhou Zhen.
• Zhou Zhen: Maintains a calm demeanor but grows impatient with Lu Ming's accusations. Denies Lu Ming's claims and counters with accusations of Lu Ming being guided by a hidden expert.

Significant Themes

• Trust and suspicion among the experts.
• The power dynamics between Ranked Sect disciples and local experts.
• Lu Ming's confidence and recklessness in the face of adversity.

Character Interactions

• Lu Ming vs. Zhou Zhen: A tense standoff as Lu Ming accuses Zhou Zhen of being the mole, while Zhou Zhen denies the claims and accuses Lu Ming of being guided by a hidden expert.
• Lu Ming vs. Other Experts: Lu Ming challenges the other experts to spar with Zhou Zhen, putting them in a difficult position as they hesitate to fight a disciple of a Third-Rate Sect.
• Zhou Zhen vs. Other Experts: Zhou Zhen's calm demeanor and powerful aura intimidate the other experts, making them reluctant to spar with him.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Liu Feilong intervenes when Lu Ming accuses Zhou Zhen of hiding an injury and challenges him to withstand three attacks.
• Zhou Zhen initially appears powerful, using the Mountain-Suppressing Fist and matching or overpowering Liu Feilong. However, Lu Ming insists that his strength is only a façade and urges Liu Feilong to target Zhou Zhen’s left side.
• Liu Feilong unleashes his Nine Flying Dragon Legs. Zhou Zhen narrowly avoids the attack by using a secret technique, but his evasive movement raises further suspicion.
• Wei Jinlin suddenly attacks Zhou Zhen, striking toward the vulnerable area Lu Ming identified. Cornered, Zhou Zhen reveals his true form: his body becomes covered in blood, and he uses Blood Escape to flee.
• Wei Jinlin catches him and kills him with a single palm strike. The experts are stunned to discover that Wei Jinlin is a Marrow Cleansing Realm martial artist, though his injuries prevent him from using that power freely.
• Before dying, Zhou Zhen admits that he returned to Red Cloud County seeking an opportunity to kill Wei Jinlin and seize control of the region. Rather than being interrogated, he detonates his own heart and dies.
• Wei Jinlin reveals that Zhou Zhen was a spy and a possible inheritor of the Blood-Worshipping Demon Cult. Zhou Zhen had secretly brought Earth Dragon Beasts to the county and likely devoured talented martial artists to strengthen himself and revive the cult.
• Because of Lu Ming’s contribution, Wei Jinlin and the other three Military Service Bureau directors recommend him for entry into a First-Rate Sect in Prefecture City.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming demonstrates sharp observation and confidence. He correctly identifies Zhou Zhen’s hidden weakness, recognizes his connection to the Blood-Worshipping Demon Cult, and guides the others toward exposing him.
• Zhou Zhen is revealed to be a ruthless demonic cultivator rather than a retired martial artist. His powerful appearance was partly a disguise, and his Blood Man transformation confirms his connection to the Blood-Worshipping Demon Cult.
• Liu Feilong proves himself a capable Bone Forging Realm expert by confronting Zhou Zhen and using his sect’s ultimate technique, though Zhou Zhen’s strength and evasive secret art exceed his expectations.
• Wei Jinlin reveals that he has reached the Marrow Cleansing Realm, far surpassing what the others believed. However, his injuries mean he must use that power cautiously.
• Liu Yiyi is relieved when Lu Ming survives and Zhou Zhen is killed, but she is stunned by the sudden announcement that Lu Ming may enter a First-Rate Sect.
• Lei Wanchun and the Military Service Bureau directors show deep fear and concern upon hearing that the Blood-Worshipping Demon Cult may be returning.

Significant Themes

• Hidden identities and deception: Zhou Zhen’s respectable image conceals his role as a demonic spy.
• Perception versus reality: His intimidating aura and apparent strength mislead the crowd, while Lu Ming sees through the performance.
• The return of an old evil: The Blood-Worshipping Demon Cult, believed to have been eradicated eighty years earlier, may be re-emerging through inherited techniques and secret disciples.
• Talent and advancement: Lu Ming’s insight and accomplishments earn him recognition and the opportunity to join a First-Rate Sect.
• The cost of power: Wei Jinlin’s superior cultivation comes with serious physical limitations caused by his injuries.

Character Interactions

• Lu Ming repeatedly provokes and directs Zhou Zhen, while Zhou Zhen grows increasingly enraged at being called an “old dog.”
• Liu Feilong acts to protect Lu Ming and fights Zhou Zhen on his behalf.
• Wei Jinlin enters the battle at the decisive moment, following Lu Ming’s guidance and exposing Zhou Zhen’s true nature.
• Zhou Zhen confronts Wei Jinlin before dying, admitting that he had hoped to eliminate him and dominate Red Cloud County.
• Wei Jinlin publicly credits Lu Ming for solving the crisis and gains the support of the other directors in recommending his future advancement.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The author announces the book's publication the next day at noon.
• The book is being published due to lack of further recommendation opportunities, not because of its success.
• The author expresses frustration about their talent not being recognized by a wider audience.

Character Developments

• The author's character is established as self-aware, introspective, and eager for recognition.
• The author's determination to write and improve is highlighted.

Significant Themes

• Recognition and validation of one's talent.
• The struggle of an author to gain an audience.
• The satisfaction derived from effort and hard work.

Character Interactions

• The author directly addresses the readers, expressing their hopes, frustrations, and requests for support.
• The author interacts with the Writer Assistant, indicating their intention to work diligently.

Update Schedule

• The author plans to release at least five chapters the next day and will update diligently afterward, releasing all chapters at once at noon.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Ming is promised a joint recommendation by all four Directors to enter a First-Rate Sect, ensuring his admission.
• Liu Yiyi regrets her past actions and feelings of superiority towards Lu Ming.
• Wei Jinlin and the Directors leave with Zhou Zhen's corpse, while other factions retreat, leaving the Green Bamboo Gang in disarray.
• Feng Buping reflects on his actions and regrets pushing Lu Ming away.
• Lu Ming and Feng Qingzhu discuss their friendship and decide to continue their storytelling sessions at Lu Ming's courtyard.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming solidifies his status as a genius, gaining recognition and respect from others.
• Liu Yiyi experiences regret and self-reflection, realizing her past mistakes in judging Lu Ming.
• Feng Qingzhu shows a subtle shift in her attitude towards Lu Ming, becoming more open and friendly.
• Feng Buping feels regret and remorse for his actions, acknowledging Lu Ming's worth.

Significant Themes

• The theme of recognition and respect for talent is emphasized, as Lu Ming's abilities are finally acknowledged by those around him.
• Regret and self-reflection are explored through Liu Yiyi and Feng Buping, who both realize their past mistakes.
• The importance of friendship and trust is highlighted as Lu Ming and Feng Qingzhu strengthen their bond.

Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and Liu Yiyi have a silent interaction, with Liu Yiyi reflecting on her past actions and feelings of regret.
• Lu Ming and Feng Qingzhu discuss their friendship, with Feng Qingzhu showing a more open and friendly demeanor.
• Lu Ming and Feng Buping have an unspoken interaction, with Feng Buping feeling regret and remorse for his actions.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Ming evolves his Leg Dao Divine Ability to Void-Stepping, allowing him to tread upon the void and ride the wind.
• Chen Mo, a member of the Shen Family, visits Lu Ming to apologize and offer a martial arts manual and a five-hundred-tael silver note as compensation.
• Wei Jinlin announces that fifty martial arts geniuses will be selected to advance to Qingning Prefecture City for the Grand Examination, while the rest will stay in Red Cloud County.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming: He becomes more confident and powerful with the evolution of his Void-Stepping ability. He also shows no mercy towards those who have offended him, accepting the Shen Family's apology but not forgiving Shen Changfeng.
• Chen Mo: He realizes the vast gap between him and Lu Ming, feeling frustrated and bewildered. He humbly apologizes on behalf of the Shen Family, marking a change in his attitude towards Lu Ming.

Significant Themes

• Power and Status: Lu Ming's growing strength and reputation cause others to treat him with respect and fear, even those from prestigious families like the Shen Family.
• Revenge and Forgiveness: Lu Ming shows no signs of forgiving Shen Changfeng, despite the Shen Family's apology, indicating his determination to seek revenge.

Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and Chen Mo: Their interaction shows Lu Ming's growing power and influence, as Chen Mo comes to apologize on behalf of the Shen Family.
• Lu Ming and Wei Jinlin: Although not directly interacting, Wei Jinlin's announcement about the Grand Examination selection process affects Lu Ming's future plans.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Ming and other exceptional individuals are directly admitted to the Dao Lineage Sect without needing to compete.
• Lu Ming begins practicing the Thirty-Six Path Grappling Hands alongside the Six Harmonies Blade Technique using the Formless Divine Art.
• He evolves his first Claw Dao divine ability, Dragon-Capturing, which possesses suppression and sealing traits.
• Lu Ming learns that they will depart for the Prefecture City the next day.
• He goes to buy ingredients for Sweet Dew Powder and is attacked on his way back.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming continues to evolve his divine abilities, demonstrating his dedication and prowess.
• Feng Qingzhu shows a softer side to Lu Ming, hinting at her growing admiration for him.

Significant Themes

• The importance of diligence and hard work in cultivation, as seen through Lu Ming's relentless practice.
• The theme of growth and change, with Lu Ming evolving his divine abilities and Feng Qingzhu's shifting attitude toward him.

Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and Feng Qingzhu have a brief interaction where she reveals they will depart for the Prefecture City the next day and hints at a thank-you gift she's preparing for Lu Ming.
• Lu Ming's encounter with an unknown assailant on his way back from buying ingredients, suggesting potential danger or rivalry.

Chapter Summary: “Shen Changfeng, Die!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shen Changfeng, having advanced to Tendon Refining Grand Completion, ambushes Lu Ming in a dark alley and attempts to kill him with a powerful sword strike.
• Lu Ming evades the attack because he had already detected the ambush using the Heaven Leak Divine Ability. He also uses the Godly Movement and Void-Stepping Divine Abilities to maneuver through the air and avoid Shen Changfeng’s follow-up attacks.
• Shen Changfeng mistakenly believes Lu Ming is helpless in midair, but Lu Ming remains suspended and turns the situation around.
• Lu Ming kicks Shen Changfeng’s sword away, grabs him with the Dragon-Capturing Divine Ability, and severely weakens his strength.
• Using the Flick-Finger Divine Ability, Lu Ming strikes one of Shen Changfeng’s Black Leak Points and kills him instantly.
• After searching Shen Changfeng’s body and finding nothing, Lu Ming decides that the Shen Family must also bear responsibility because Shen Changfeng previously used the family’s influence against him.
• Lu Ming drags Shen Changfeng’s corpse through the city and leaves it directly outside the Shen Family estate, openly declaring his victory and challenging the family’s response.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming: Demonstrates exceptional perception, combat awareness, mobility, and control over his divine abilities. He has become far more confident and decisive, no longer hiding his actions or fearing retaliation. His long-standing resentment toward Shen Changfeng is finally released.
• Shen Changfeng: Despite reaching a higher cultivation realm, he is consumed by desperation and hatred. His confidence collapses when his assassination attempts fail, revealing his fear and lack of composure. His defeat shows that cultivation level alone cannot overcome Lu Ming’s abilities and battle instincts.
• The Shen Family: Their previous influence and involvement in targeting Lu Ming are now directly threatened. Lu Ming’s public delivery of Shen Changfeng’s corpse forces them to respond.

Significant Themes

• Skill versus cultivation level: Lu Ming defeats an opponent one major realm above him through superior awareness, divine abilities, timing, and tactical thinking.
• Revenge and justice: Shen Changfeng’s death is the consequence of his past attempt to have Lu Ming murdered, as well as his renewed assassination attempt.
• Escalation of conflict: What began as a personal grudge now threatens to become an open confrontation between Lu Ming and the Shen Family.
• Public power and reputation: By displaying the corpse publicly, Lu Ming demonstrates that he no longer needs to act cautiously or secretly. His growing status protects him from immediate interference.
• Overconfidence and miscalculation: Shen Changfeng repeatedly assumes Lu Ming is vulnerable, but each assumption becomes an opportunity for Lu Ming to counterattack.

Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and Shen Changfeng: Their encounter is a direct confrontation shaped by past betrayal and resentment. Shen Changfeng attacks first, but Lu Ming calmly turns the ambush into an execution.
• Lu Ming and the passersby: The crowd is shocked by his public display of Shen Changfeng’s corpse and recognizes both the dead man’s identity and Lu Ming’s rising reputation.
• Lu Ming and the Shen Family guards: Lu Ming silently ignores the guards, throws the corpse at their gate, and leaves without explanation, making the gesture more powerful and provocative.
• Lu Ming and the Shen Family: Though the family does not directly appear, his actions deliver an unmistakable warning that he now holds them accountable for Shen Changfeng’s actions.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Ming returns to his courtyard, cultivates, and successfully evolves his second Claw Dao Divine Ability to 'Nine Yin.'
• The heads of the three great families—Zhao Tianhao, Chen Boxiong, and Shen Wanlin—visit Lu Ming to apologize, make amends, and offer gifts, including banknotes and the Chen Family's secret manual, 'Returning Wind Sweeping Willow Saber.'
• Lu Ming and the other fifty geniuses, led by Wei Jinlin, travel to Qingning Prefecture City, encountering bandits along the way.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming evolves his second divine ability, 'Nine Yin,' enhancing his combat prowess.
• Lu Ming experiences the respect and deference once reserved for Wei Jinlin, further boosting his confidence and ego.
• Wei Jinlin, despite his injuries, continues to protect the group, demonstrating his responsibility and care for the disciples.

Significant Themes

• Power and Prestige: Lu Ming's growing strength and influence attract the attention and respect of the city's elite, highlighting the importance of martial prowess in the cultivation world.
• Apologies and Amends: The heads of the three great families come to Lu Ming to apologize and make amends, showing the value of maintaining good relations and avoiding unnecessary conflicts.

Character Interactions

• Lu Ming interacts with the heads of the three great families, accepting their apologies and gifts with calm composure.
• Wei Jinlin continues to guide and protect the group of disciples, demonstrating his leadership and responsibility.
• Lu Ming and Wei Jinlin, though not interacting directly, are both present at the arrival to Qingning Prefecture City, highlighting their roles as leaders among the disciples.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Guo Zhengwei and his son, Guo Yuan, arrive outside Qingning Prefecture City.
• Guo Zhengwei has been released from confinement but is mentally unstable, while Guo Yuan has unexpectedly survived the Earth Dragon Beast attack and risen dramatically in status.
• Guo Yuan reveals that he has reached Tendon Refining Grand Completion, astonishing Wei Jinlin and the other young martial artists.
• Guo Yuan blames Lu Ming for his father’s imprisonment and deteriorated condition, threatening to kill Lu Ming if he falls into his hands. Guo Zhengwei also displays intense hatred toward Lu Ming.
• Lu Ming realizes that Guo Yuan must have undergone some extraordinary transformation during the Earth Dragon Beast incident. Although wary, he remains confident that Guo Yuan cannot easily defeat him.
• Wei Jinlin leads the candidates into Qingning Prefecture City for the upcoming Grand Examination. Most disciples must take the examination, but Lu Ming, Feng Qingzhu, Liu Yiyi, Chen Ping, and Yun Potian are exempt because of their participation in the dangerous Genius Bait plan.
• The five are brought into the Inner Bureau of the Prefecture City Military Service Bureau, where Director Xie Qingci receives Wei Jinlin and hears the full account of the Earth Dragon Beast incident.
• A formal talent assessment begins inside a white building, measuring bone aptitude and overall cultivation talent.
• Wei Jinlin privately explains to Lu Ming that although four directors have jointly recommended him for a First-Rate Sect, his test results will determine whether he becomes an ordinary, personal, or core disciple and how many resources he receives.
• Wei emphasizes that Lu Ming’s Formless Divine Art requires vast resources, including many martial arts manuals, varieties of Demon Meat, and precious medicines. Lu Ming therefore must perform as well as possible.
• Wei also warns Lu Ming that his investigation into Guo Yuan’s situation is troubling and advises him to be cautious. The chapter ends with Lu Ming asking what Wei means.

Character Developments

• Guo Yuan has transformed from a presumed victim into a powerful and influential young martial artist. His breakthrough to Tendon Refining Grand Completion gives him confidence and arrogance.
• Guo Zhengwei remains consumed by hatred toward Lu Ming and has become mentally unbalanced after his imprisonment and the loss of his son.
• Lu Ming responds to Guo Yuan’s threat with restraint and confidence. He recognizes the danger but does not feel intimidated, knowing he has previously defeated opponents of similar cultivation.
• Wei Jinlin continues to support Lu Ming, honoring his promise to reward the five survivors of the Genius Bait plan. He also takes on a mentor-like role by advising Lu Ming about sect rankings, resources, and Guo Yuan.
• Yun Potian reacts enthusiastically to the exemption from the Grand Examination, viewing it as proof that their survival has earned them valuable opportunities.
• Xie Qingci is established as the authoritative Director of the Prefecture City Military Service Bureau and shows particular interest in Lu Ming’s exceptional recommendation.

Significant Themes

• Survival and transformation: Guo Yuan’s survival of the Earth Dragon Beast attack and sudden advancement suggest that great danger can lead to extraordinary changes.
• Power and status: The chapter contrasts Guo Yuan’s newly elevated position with Lu Ming’s own path toward entry into a First-Rate Sect. Martial strength and institutional recognition determine how characters are treated.
• Justice and distorted blame: Guo Yuan blames Lu Ming for his father’s suffering while ignoring the reasons Guo Zhengwei was punished, highlighting how personal hatred can obscure the truth.
• Opportunity earned through sacrifice: The five survivors of the Genius Bait plan gain exemption from the Grand Examination, demonstrating that their earlier risks have produced tangible rewards.
• Resources and cultivation: Lu Ming’s unique Formless Divine Art requires extraordinary support, making talent evaluation and sect treatment crucial to his future development.
• Foreshadowing and hidden danger: Wei Jinlin’s ominous warning about Guo Yuan suggests that Guo Yuan’s survival may involve unknown circumstances and that a future conflict is likely.

Character Interactions

• Guo Yuan and Guo Zhengwei: Their reunion shows Guo Yuan’s concern for his father, but also Guo Zhengwei’s continuing instability and vendetta.
• Guo Yuan and Lu Ming: Guo Yuan openly accuses Lu Ming of harming his father and threatens him, establishing renewed hostility between them.
• Guo Yuan and Wei Jinlin: Guo Yuan formally greets Wei Jinlin, but his new cultivation and status create an implicit reversal in their former relationship.
• Wei Jinlin and the five exceptional candidates: Wei rewards them by bypassing the ordinary examination and personally brings them into the Inner Bureau.
• Wei Jinlin and Xie Qingci: Wei carefully reports the Earth Dragon Beast incident, while Xie recognizes the significance of the survivors—especially Lu Ming.
• Wei Jinlin and Lu Ming: In private, Wei explains the importance of the upcoming talent test and warns Lu Ming that Guo Yuan poses a serious, possibly unusual threat.

Chapter Summary: Orthodox Great Sect, News of the Formless Dao Sect

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wei Jinlin informs Lu Ming that Guo Yuan survived an Earth Dragon Beast attack and was later taken in by the vice sect master of the Celestial Balance Sword Sect.
• Because Guo Yuan can break through during battle, he bypassed the Grand Examination and became a core disciple of the First-Rate Sect. He has since reached Tendon Refining Grand Completion and is preparing to enter the Bone Forging Realm.
• Guo Yuan may attempt the Formless Dao Sect’s entrance examination next year, creating a serious potential threat to Lu Ming.
• Wei Jinlin explains that the Formless Dao Sect recruits only once every ten years. The next examination is next year, but he doubts Lu Ming can reach the required level in time because of Lu Ming’s apparently mediocre innate aptitude. Lu Ming’s next realistic opportunity would be eleven years later, when he is twenty-nine.
• Lu Ming realizes that his own hidden potential may allow him to qualify much sooner than Wei Jinlin expects. After consuming Demon Meat and traveling with lightness skills, he believes he is close to breaking through from Flesh Refining Major Completion into Tendon Refining.
• Wei Jinlin reveals that traces of the Blood-Worshipping Demon Cult have appeared across Red Cloud County, Qingning Prefecture, and other parts of the Great Li Dynasty. He suspects this may be connected to the upcoming Formless Dao Sect examination and leaves to investigate.
• Lu Ming senses that a period of widespread turmoil is approaching and wishes to find a secure place with abundant martial arts manuals and Demon Meat so he can rapidly increase his strength.
• Lu Ming undergoes a talent evaluation inside a mysterious white testing chamber. He strikes the wall with his saber, triggering increasingly powerful currents of air that test his ability to resist pressure.
• His saber intent initially protects him, but the test begins to draw out his hidden divine abilities. Fearing that his abilities will be exposed, Lu Ming deliberately stops resisting and allows himself to fall, ending the test prematurely.
• He leaves the chamber knowing that his evaluation may be lowered, but confident that he has protected his greatest secrets.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming: Becomes increasingly aware of the danger posed by Guo Yuan, the Blood-Worshipping Demon Cult, and the approaching political and martial upheaval. He also grows more cautious about revealing his extraordinary divine abilities, choosing secrecy and survival over a higher official evaluation.
• Guo Yuan: Is established as an exceptionally fortunate and talented rival. His miraculous survival, powerful patron, rapid cultivation, and access to the Celestial Balance Sword Sect make him a major future threat.
• Wei Jinlin: Acts as a protective mentor and source of information. Although he recognizes Lu Ming’s overall talent, he underestimates Lu Ming’s true potential because he cannot perceive his hidden advantages.
• The Blood-Worshipping Demon Cult: Develops from a distant danger into an active, widespread threat whose reappearance may destabilize the entire dynasty.

Significant Themes

• Luck and destiny: Guo Yuan’s success appears almost absurdly fortunate, contrasting with Lu Ming’s more deliberate and secretive cultivation.
• Hidden potential versus outward judgment: Wei Jinlin and the testing system judge Lu Ming based on only the abilities he chooses to reveal, emphasizing the gap between appearance and reality.
• Secrecy and survival: Lu Ming understands that displaying his full power while still weak could make him a target, so concealing his divine abilities becomes essential.
• Approaching chaos: The Formless Dao Sect examination and the Blood-Worshipping Demon Cult’s resurgence suggest that personal rivalries are unfolding against a much larger age of upheaval.
• Preparation and growth: Lu Ming seeks resources, safety, and cultivation opportunities so he can become strong enough to face future enemies and instability.

Important Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and Wei Jinlin: Wei Jinlin warns Lu Ming about Guo Yuan, explains the Formless Dao Sect’s recruitment cycle, and advises him not to become overly anxious. Lu Ming listens respectfully but privately realizes that Wei Jinlin has underestimated his true capabilities.
• Lu Ming and Guo Yuan: Though they do not meet directly, Guo Yuan’s rise dominates Lu Ming’s thoughts and forces him to reassess his cultivation speed and defensive strength.
• Wei Jinlin and the wider crisis: Wei Jinlin shares his concerns about the Blood-Worshipping Demon Cult before departing to investigate, leaving Lu Ming to face the coming dangers on his own.
• Lu Ming and the testing chamber: The chamber acts as both an evaluation tool and a threat to Lu Ming’s secrecy. His decision to surrender the test demonstrates his willingness to sacrifice recognition in order to conceal his true strength.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Ming undergoes a talent test, receiving a Grade B overall talent and Grade C bone structure, disappointing Xie Qingci.
• Lu Ming decides to break through to Tendon Refining to improve his evaluation.
• Feng Qingzhu invites Lu Ming to meet Li Youning at Golden Tripod Bank.
• Li Youning, having failed the sect selection, seeks to befriend Lu Ming and collaborate with Golden Tripod Bank for mutual benefit.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming: Focused on improving his cultivation to enter a top sect and protect his family.
• Li Youning: Disappointed with her failed sect selection, she turns to Lu Ming for help, demonstrating her business acumen.
• Feng Qingzhu: Remains calm and collected, acting as a messenger between Lu Ming and Li Youning.

Significant Themes

• Talent and Aptitude: Lu Ming's talent is recognized, while Li Youning's lack of talent leads her to seek alternative paths.
• Friendship and Alliances: Li Youning aims to form an alliance with Lu Ming and Golden Tripod Bank for mutual growth.
• Cultivation and Improvement: Lu Ming's focus on cultivation to enhance his abilities and enter a top sect.

Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and Feng Qingzhu: They maintain a friendly relationship, with Feng Qingzhu acting as a go-between for Lu Ming and Li Youning.
• Li Youning and Qian Xiaofu: They discuss a potential collaboration involving Lu Ming, with Li Youning leveraging Lu Ming's talent to strengthen her family's position in Qingning Prefecture City.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qian Xiaofu withdraws from cooperating with Lu Ming after learning that Guo Yuan, a core disciple of the Celestial Balance Sword Sect, has vowed to kill him.
• Li Youning argues that Lu Ming’s talent, blade intent, and record of killing a Tendon Refining Grand Completion expert may allow him to contend with Guo Yuan. However, Qian Xiaofu believes Lu Ming’s ordinary bone structure aptitude will prevent him from becoming a core disciple and closing the gap.
• Li Youning suggests that heavenly treasures could improve Lu Ming’s bone structure. Qian Xiaofu explains that such treasures are extremely rare, expensive, and difficult to obtain, even for the Golden Tripod Bank.
• Because Qian Xiaofu refuses to help, Li Youning meets Lu Ming and Feng Qingzhu at a nearby tavern rather than bringing them into the bank.
• During their meeting, Li Youning reveals that she failed the martial arts sect selection and that her family will soon leave Qingning Prefecture City to seek a new opportunity elsewhere.
• Lu Ming offers to see the Li Family off, implying that he may protect them during their departure.
• After the gathering, Li Youning privately tells Lu Ming that bone structure can indeed be improved through heavenly treasures, though her family lacks the wealth and connections to help him.
• Lu Ming realizes that improving his bone structure could increase both his cultivation speed and the efficiency of his evolving divine abilities. He resolves to seek such treasures in the future.
• On his way to the Military Service Bureau, Lu Ming uses the Heaven Leak Divine Ability and discovers that an alley is surrounded by disguised martial artists, including at least one Bone Forging Realm expert. Suspecting an ambush, he wisely leaves rather than becoming involved.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming: Becomes increasingly aware that his bone structure aptitude may limit his cultivation and future status. He also recognizes that improving it could enhance his divine ability development. His caution and perception are demonstrated when he detects the hidden martial artists and avoids the danger.
• Li Youning: Shows concern for Lu Ming and tries to secure financial assistance for him, despite her own failed sect selection and family crisis. She accepts that she must abandon the martial path and return to managing her family’s affairs, but still maintains a warm and supportive relationship with Lu Ming.
• Qian Xiaofu: Reveals herself to be cautious and pragmatic, prioritizing the Golden Tripod Bank’s safety over cooperation with Lu Ming. Her fear of Guo Yuan and her assessment of talent determine her refusal to help.
• Feng Qingzhu: Her relationship with Lu Ming appears to have grown closer. Li Youning notices a new softness in Feng Qingzhu’s attitude toward him, contrasting with her usual aloofness.
• Guo Yuan: Though absent, he remains a major threat. His position as a core disciple and likely imminent breakthrough to the Bone Forging Realm make him a powerful obstacle for Lu Ming.

Significant Themes

• Talent and social hierarchy: Martial society distinguishes sharply between ordinary and core disciples, showing that status and innate aptitude can matter as much as effort.
• The importance of bone structure aptitude: Bone structure is established as a key factor influencing cultivation speed, long-term potential, and possibly the evolution of divine abilities.
• Wealth versus opportunity: Rare treasures may overcome natural limitations, but only powerful organizations can realistically obtain them.
• Friendship and loyalty: Li Youning cannot materially assist Lu Ming, yet she still tries to help and warns him about ways to improve himself.
• Prudence amid danger: Lu Ming’s decision to retreat from the suspicious alley highlights his growing maturity and willingness to avoid unnecessary conflicts.

Character Interactions

• Qian Xiaofu and Li Youning: Li Youning attempts to persuade Qian Xiaofu to support Lu Ming, but Qian Xiaofu firmly refuses because of Guo Yuan’s threat and Lu Ming’s perceived limitations.
• Li Youning, Lu Ming, and Feng Qingzhu: The three reunite warmly, discuss their circumstances, and share a final friendly gathering before Li Youning’s family departs.
• Li Youning and Lu Ming: Li Youning expresses regret over failing to obtain help for him, but her revelation about bone-enhancing treasures gives Lu Ming a new objective. Lu Ming’s promise to see her family off reassures her.
• Lu Ming and Feng Qingzhu: Their closeness is apparent to Li Youning, who notices Feng Qingzhu’s softened demeanor and suspects their relationship has deepened.

Chapter Summary: “Guo Zhengwei Dies! Tendon Refining!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Ming is ambushed in an alley by more than a dozen underworld martial artists, including two Tendon Refining Grand Completion experts and their leader, Feng Li, a Bone Forging Realm martial artist.
• Thanks to his Heaven Leak Divine Ability, Lu Ming detects the ambush before entering the trap and attempts to escape using the Cloud-Stepping and Godly Movement abilities.
• His escape route is blocked from multiple directions. Forced to fight, Lu Ming reveals his blade intent and uses exceptional movement techniques to break through the encirclement.
• Guo Zhengwei suddenly appears from a rooftop and attacks Lu Ming with the Six Harmonies Blade Technique. Lu Ming realizes that Guo Zhengwei and his son, Guo Yuan, arranged the ambush.
• At the moment of greatest danger, Lu Ming openly uses the Void-Stepping Divine Ability. He evades Guo Zhengwei’s attack in midair and counters with the same Six Harmonies Blade Technique, decapitating him in a single strike.
• Feng Li catches up and attacks Lu Ming with a powerful battleaxe. Lu Ming uses the Water-Severing Divine Ability to disrupt the strike long enough to escape, though the force leaves him lightly injured.
• Guo Yuan arrives too late, discovers his father’s death, and swears revenge against Lu Ming. Despite his grief, his reaction also hints at a growing and dangerous madness.
• Lu Ming returns to the Military Service Bureau, takes a healing pill, and resumes cultivation.
• The life-or-death battle weakens the bottleneck in his cultivation. Two days later, he successfully breaks through from Flesh Refining Major Completion into the Tendon Refining Realm.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming: Demonstrates growing combat intelligence, courage, and mastery of his divine abilities. He is forced to reveal the Void-Stepping Divine Ability but successfully kills Guo Zhengwei and escapes a stronger Bone Forging opponent. His battle experience helps him overcome his cultivation bottleneck and reach Tendon Refining.
• Guo Zhengwei: Revealed as an impulsive and mentally unstable participant in the ambush. He dies when Lu Ming turns his own Six Harmonies Blade Technique against him.
• Guo Yuan: Becomes consumed by hatred after his father’s death. His grief is mixed with an unsettling excitement, suggesting that his desire for revenge may drive him toward increasingly ruthless actions.
• Feng Li: Shown to be vastly stronger than Lu Ming due to his Bone Forging cultivation, but he is shocked by Lu Ming’s sophisticated techniques and ultimately fails to stop his escape.
• The Tiger Head Gang: Their reputation is damaged because their leader and numerous experts fail to kill a much younger martial artist.

Significant Themes

• Survival through adaptability: Lu Ming survives by combining awareness, movement, divine abilities, and precise timing rather than relying on raw strength.
• Hidden strength and revelation: The crisis forces Lu Ming to reveal abilities he had previously concealed, showing that desperate circumstances can expose hidden power.
• Revenge and escalating conflict: Guo Zhengwei’s death intensifies the feud between Lu Ming and Guo Yuan, suggesting future confrontations.
• Cultivation through life-and-death combat: The battle directly contributes to Lu Ming’s breakthrough, reinforcing the idea that extreme pressure accelerates martial advancement.
• Strength versus technique: Although Feng Li possesses overwhelming physical power, Lu Ming’s refined blade techniques and divine abilities allow him to disrupt and escape him.

Important Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and the ambushers: Lu Ming is surrounded but uses superior perception and movement to prevent them from trapping him.
• Lu Ming and Guo Zhengwei: Guo Zhengwei launches a killing blow, but Lu Ming evades it and kills him with a mirrored version of the same technique.
• Lu Ming and Feng Li: Feng Li nearly overwhelms Lu Ming with his Bone Forging strength, but Lu Ming uses the Water-Severing Divine Ability to interrupt the attack and flee.
• Guo Yuan and Guo Zhengwei: Guo Yuan mourns his father and blames Lu Ming, while also regretting that Guo Zhengwei ignored his warning and joined the ambush.
• Guo Yuan and Feng Li: Feng Li admits his failure, while Guo Yuan’s grief and anger establish the foundation for a more dangerous revenge campaign.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Feng Li celebrates at Tiger Head Gang headquarters after believing Lu Ming’s failed assassination two days earlier has weakened his position with Guo Yuan.
• Feng Li has gathered intelligence on Qingning Prefecture City’s talented martial artists for Guo Yuan and has also obtained a valuable Medicine Emperor Token.
• Lu Ming infiltrates the headquarters using Godly Movement and Snow-Treading Trace, then silently kills every gang member except Feng Li, including the two deputy leaders who helped ambush him.
• Feng Li discovers the massacre and realizes Lu Ming has broken through to the Tendon Refining Realm. He attempts to retrieve his xuanhua battle-axe, but Lu Ming pursues him.
• Lu Ming repeatedly uses the Water-Severing technique, weakening Feng Li’s aura and disrupting his true qi. Feng Li abandons his weapon and attacks in desperation.
• Lu Ming’s strengthened blade intent overwhelms Feng Li. Using Dragon-Capturing to suppress him and Point Kill to strike a Black Leak Point, Lu Ming kills Feng Li, completely annihilating the Tiger Head Gang.
• Lu Ming searches the headquarters and finds over five hundred taels of silver, the Medicine Emperor Token, and a booklet listing talented martial artists, their locations, and several who have gone missing.
• The list deepens Lu Ming’s suspicion that Guo Yuan is hiding a major secret, especially given Guo Yuan’s unlikely survival after being attacked by an Earth Dragon Beast.
• Lu Ming returns to the Military Service Bureau for his second talent test, held on the same day that major sects select disciples.
• After completing the test, Lu Ming observes the gathered geniuses with Heaven Leak Divine Ability. He is shocked to discover that an acquaintance apparently possesses Tendon Refining Grand Completion cultivation.

2. Character Developments

• Lu Ming: Demonstrates a dramatic increase in strength after breaking through to Tendon Refining. He can now kill ordinary Tendon Refining experts effortlessly and defeat a Bone Forging Realm martial artist through superior techniques, momentum, and divine abilities. His confidence and fighting spirit rise after avenging the ambush.
• Feng Li: Begins the chapter confident and hopeful about advancing with Guo Yuan’s support, but becomes increasingly fearful as Lu Ming destroys his gang and suppresses him in combat. His desperation culminates in a failed attempt to fight back before his death.
• Guo Yuan: Remains absent, but his influence becomes more ominous. His interest in tracking talented martial artists, along with the disappearance of several individuals and his miraculous survival, suggests a hidden scheme.
• Xie Qingci: Oversees Lu Ming’s second talent test and prepares to announce the results, though the chapter ends before Lu Ming’s talent is revealed.
• The mysterious acquaintance: Is revealed to possess unexpectedly high cultivation—Tendon Refining Grand Completion—raising new suspicions about his identity or concealed abilities.

3. Significant Themes

• Growth through adversity: Lu Ming’s recent ambush motivates his rapid improvement, and his victory shows how cultivation, techniques, and experience can overcome a realm disadvantage.
• Revenge and justice: The destruction of the Tiger Head Gang serves as Lu Ming’s retaliation against those who attempted to kill him.
• Hidden conspiracies: The list of missing geniuses and Guo Yuan’s suspicious actions indicate that larger forces are operating beneath the surface of Qingning Prefecture City.
• The value of intelligence and resources: The Medicine Emperor Token and Feng Li’s intelligence booklet may become important tools in Lu Ming’s future cultivation and investigation.
• Concealed strength and appearances: Feng Li underestimated Lu Ming, while the final revelation suggests that other people may also be hiding their true cultivation.

4. Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and Feng Li: Their confrontation shifts from Feng Li’s confidence to panic and helplessness. Lu Ming’s Water-Severing, blade intent, Dragon-Capturing, and Point Kill work together to defeat him.
• Lu Ming and Guo Yuan: They do not meet directly, but Guo Yuan’s plot against Lu Ming and his connection to the missing geniuses become central to Lu Ming’s suspicions and future plans.
• Lu Ming and Xie Qingci: Xie Qingci conducts Lu Ming’s second talent test and records the result before leaving to prepare the announcement.
• Lu Ming and the gathered geniuses: While waiting for the results, Lu Ming secretly observes them with Heaven Leak Divine Ability and discovers one acquaintance’s unexpectedly advanced cultivation.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Ming breaks through to the peak of Tendon Refining, surprising Lu Ming who suspects external assistance.
• Lu Ming recalls past events involving Chen Ping, leading him to suspect that Chen Ping is not who he seems.
• Lu Ming realizes that the chaotic times are approaching and decides to choose a sect carefully for stability and cultivation.
• Inside the Military Service Bureau, elders from eight sects evaluate the geniuses and make their selections, with varying terms and opinions on each candidate.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming: Realizes the impending chaos and decides to choose a sect wisely to protect himself and grow stronger.
• Chen Ping: Suspected by Lu Ming of having a hidden agenda due to past events and his recent breakthrough.

Significant Themes

• Cultivation and Growth: Lu Ming's decision to choose a sect for stability and growth highlights the importance of cultivation in the story's world.
• Trust and Suspicion: Lu Ming's suspicion of Chen Ping raises questions about trust and loyalty among the characters.

Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and Chen Ping: Lu Ming's suspicion of Chen Ping creates tension between them, with Lu Ming planning to keep a close eye on him.
• Elders of the eight sects: The elders interact, discussing and selecting disciples, revealing their sects' preferences and attitudes towards the candidates.

Chapter Summary: “Lu Ming’s Choice! Core Disciple!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xie Qingci announces the sect offers for Chen Ping. Nearly every First-Rate and Second-Rate Sect offers him at least core-disciple status, while the Cangwu Sect offers him the far superior position of Dao Lineage Candidate.
• The disciples discuss the importance of this status. Dao Lineage Candidates are viewed as the future leaders of their sects, receive exceptional resources, have a strong chance of entering the Formless Dao Sect, and are protected from open attacks by other major powers.
• Despite the advantages of the Cangwu Sect’s offer, Chen Ping chooses the Sunbright Sect, a First-Rate Sect, surprising the crowd. Elder Lu Zhenggang is delighted and accepts him.
• Chen Ping’s decision troubles Lu Ming, who had originally intended to join the Sunbright Sect. Since Chen Ping is now joining it—and because of Lu Ming’s conflict with Guo Yuan in the Celestial Balance Sword Sect—Lu Ming becomes less interested in going there.
• Feng Qingzhu is then offered core-disciple positions by several sects. The Cangwu Sect’s female elder unexpectedly offers her the status of Dao Lineage Candidate, which Feng Qingzhu accepts.
• The elders are surprised by the offer because Dao Lineage Candidate positions are rarely granted immediately. Xie Qingci explains that the Cangwu Sect recently lost one of its candidates, likely to the Blood-Worshipping Demon Cult, and urgently needs a replacement before the next Formless Dao Sect examination.
• The chapter emphasizes the importance of the upcoming examination: sects can be promoted or demoted based on their performance and receive resources accordingly, making Dao Lineage Candidates crucial to their sects’ futures.
• When Lu Ming’s turn arrives, the Sunbright Sect offers him the status of personal disciple, while the Celestial Balance Sword Sect offers only an ordinary-disciple position and the other two sects offer core-disciple status.
• Lu Ming considers the Cangwu Sect, partly because Feng Qingzhu could support him there, but the Myriad Manifestations Sect elder reveals that Cangwu has no remaining Dao Lineage Candidate slots.
• The Myriad Manifestations Sect offers Lu Ming a chance to compete for its final Dao Lineage Candidate position. Lu Ming is strongly tempted, since the status would give him both powerful resources and protection from Guo Yuan and other enemies.

Character Developments

• Chen Ping demonstrates independence and confidence by rejecting the prestigious Dao Lineage Candidate position at Cangwu in favor of the First-Rate Sunbright Sect. His choice also unintentionally disrupts Lu Ming’s plans.
• Feng Qingzhu is confirmed to possess exceptional talent comparable to Chen Ping’s. Her acceptance of the Dao Lineage Candidate position shows that she values security, resources, and future advancement.
• Lu Ming becomes increasingly strategic and cautious. Rather than choosing based solely on sect rank, he weighs personal safety, potential enemies, available positions, and relationships with other disciples. His hidden confidence in his own talent allows him to seriously consider competing for a Dao Lineage Candidate slot.
• Xie Qingci acts as an impartial overseer while also revealing broader political circumstances surrounding the sects.
• The Cangwu elder appears eager to recover from the loss of a Dao Lineage Candidate, while the Myriad Manifestations elder demonstrates shrewdness by directly targeting Lu Ming with a valuable offer.

Significant Themes

• Status versus practical advantage: A First-Rate Sect is not automatically the best choice; a Dao Lineage Candidate in a Second-Rate Sect may receive greater resources and protection than a core disciple in a First-Rate Sect.
• Ambition and strategic choice: The characters must balance prestige, resources, safety, personal enemies, and future advancement.
• Talent and sect competition: Exceptional disciples are treated as critical assets because their success directly affects their sect’s ranking and access to cultivation resources.
• Security in a dangerous world: The protection granted to Dao Lineage Candidates is particularly valuable because of threats such as the Blood-Worshipping Demon Cult and conflicts between powerful disciples.
• Uncertainty beneath appearances: Lu Ming has deliberately limited how much of his true ability he reveals, meaning the offers he receives may underestimate his actual potential.

Character Interactions

• The elders compete indirectly for Chen Ping, Feng Qingzhu, and Lu Ming, using increasingly attractive positions to recruit them.
• Chen Ping’s selection of the Sunbright Sect directly affects Lu Ming, who had planned to choose the same sect but now worries about sharing it with him.
• Feng Qingzhu’s acceptance of Cangwu’s offer gives her a higher status than Lu Ming would currently receive there, creating the possibility that she could support or supervise him.
• The Myriad Manifestations elder appeals to Lu Ming’s concerns by pointing out Cangwu’s lack of remaining candidate slots and promising him an opportunity to compete for one.
• The chapter ends with Lu Ming seriously considering the Myriad Manifestations Sect, though his final decision has not yet been made.

Chapter Summary: Treasures That Improve One’s Innate Constitution, Myriad Spirits Water!

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Ming chooses to join the Myriad Manifestations Sect, rejecting offers from the Sunbright Sect and Celestial Balance Sword Sect. His decision is motivated partly by the need for strong sect backing against Guo Yuan.
• Elder Lu Zhenggang believes Lu Ming lacks the qualifications to become a Sunbright Sect core disciple, while Elder Zhao Baishi remains hostile because of Lu Ming’s conflict with Guo Yuan.
• Elder Wu Qingfeng is delighted by Lu Ming’s choice. He sees Lu Ming as a potential Dao Lineage Candidate, especially after learning that Lu Ming may have killed the Bone Forging Realm leader of the Tiger Head Gang despite only being at the Tendon Refining Realm.
• Lu Ming briefly interacts with Yun Potian, who joins Medicine King Valley. Since Yun Potian previously helped Lu Ming during the Red Cloud County competition, the two agree to keep in contact.
• Lu Ming follows Wu Qingfeng to the Myriad Manifestations Sect. Wu explains that the sect was once a First-Rate Sect founded by a follower of a powerful figure from the Formless Dao Sect, but it declined after an important alchemist died and its supply of high-level cultivation medicines was disrupted.
• Instead of holding a formal initiation, Wu Qingfeng secretly obtains a jade bottle of Myriad Spirits Water using Lu Ming’s newly granted core-disciple privilege.
• The treasure is normally worth ten thousand contribution points, far beyond what an ordinary disciple could access. Wu Qingfeng spends the sect’s entire contribution reserve to obtain it for Lu Ming, insisting that Lu Ming does not need to repay him.
• Before Lu Ming learns the bottle’s true value, another sect member angrily arrives, accusing Wu Qingfeng of recklessly using a new disciple’s authority to exchange for the sect’s treasure.
• Lu Ming discovers that Myriad Spirits Water can improve a person’s innate constitution, making the gift far more valuable than he initially realized.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming commits himself to the declining Myriad Manifestations Sect, showing confidence in its promise despite its weaker reputation. He remains cautious and skeptical when Wu Qingfeng acts secretly, but quickly recognizes the potential value of the treasure.
• Wu Qingfeng becomes a strong supporter of Lu Ming. He is willing to gamble the sect’s resources on Lu Ming’s future and spends an enormous amount of contribution points to help him become a Dao Lineage Candidate.
• Lu Zhenggang views Lu Ming’s choice pragmatically and believes Lu Ming is not yet qualified for the Sunbright Sect’s core-disciple position.
• Zhao Baishi maintains his resentment toward Lu Ming because of Guo Yuan and shows no regret when Lu Ming chooses another sect.
• Yun Potian remains friendly toward Lu Ming, reinforcing their relationship from their earlier cooperation.
• Feng Qingzhu is briefly mentioned; Lu Ming suspects she has forgotten her promise to thank him, though he ultimately dismisses the matter.

Significant Themes

• Betting on hidden potential: The Myriad Manifestations Sect risks investing in Lu Ming despite his officially lower-ranked talent because his actual combat ability is extraordinary.
• The importance of resources and alchemists: The sect’s historical decline demonstrates how essential high-level medicinal resources and alchemists are to martial sects.
• Trust and mentorship: Wu Qingfeng’s costly gift shows his willingness to personally support Lu Ming, even before Lu Ming proves whether he can become a Dao Lineage Candidate.
• Talent versus achievement: Lu Ming’s ability to defeat a Bone Forging Realm opponent while only at the Tendon Refining Realm suggests that formal talent assessments may not fully measure his true potential.
• Hidden value: The Myriad Spirits Water initially appears to be merely an expensive liquid, but its ability to improve innate constitution reveals that its true worth lies beyond ordinary wealth or contribution points.

Important Character Interactions

• Lu Ming declines the stronger sect offers and accepts Wu Qingfeng’s invitation.
• He exchanges a friendly farewell with Yun Potian and agrees to meet again.
• Wu Qingfeng introduces Lu Ming to the Myriad Manifestations Sect and explains its history.
• Wu secretly gives Lu Ming the Myriad Spirits Water and promises he will not demand repayment.
• An unnamed sect member confronts Wu Qingfeng, creating tension over the unauthorized use of Lu Ming’s core-disciple privilege.