Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lin Xiu, from the Folklore and Antiquities Investigation Division, visits Zheng Mansion to verify if Zheng Shulan or Zheng Yuanpei have seen a copper shard with Wild Curse Script and a vertical pupil.
• Lin Xiu notices Fang Shuwen playing chess with Zheng Yuanpei and becomes suspicious of Fang's background.
• Lin Xiu orders his subordinates to keep watch on Fang Shuwen and test him with the detector once he leaves Zheng Mansion.

Character Developments

• Zheng Yuanpei: Shows impatience with Lin Xiu's visit and maintains his stern demeanor.
• Lin Xiu: Demonstrates professionalism and persistence in his investigation, showing wariness towards Fang Shuwen.
• Fang Shuwen: Proves his chess skills by checkmating Zheng Yuanpei and expresses his desire to learn from him, showing ambition and confidence.

Significant Themes

• Investigation and Suspicion: Lin Xiu's visit highlights the theme of investigation and suspicion, as he questions Zheng Shulan and Zheng Yuanpei about the copper shard and becomes suspicious of Fang Shuwen.
• Power and Status: The interaction between Zheng Yuanpei and Lin Xiu, as well as Zheng Yuanpei's reaction to Fang Shuwen, emphasizes the theme of power and status in Xikou County.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Yuanpei and Lin Xiu: Their interaction is tense, with Zheng Yuanpei showing impatience and Lin Xiu maintaining a professional demeanor.
• Zheng Yuanpei and Fang Shuwen: Their interaction is competitive, with Zheng Yuanpei initially treating Fang Shuwen as a chess partner but later showing interest in his ambition.
• Lin Xiu and Fang Shuwen: Their interaction is indirect, with Lin Xiu becoming suspicious of Fang Shuwen's background and ordering surveillance on him.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Shuwen follows Zheng Yuanpei to his backyard training ground, which is much larger than the Zhao Estate's.
• Zheng Yuanpei tests Fang Shuwen's Soaring Snake Fist, noting its high level but a fatal flaw in force unification.
• Zheng Yuanpei guides Fang Shuwen to correct his force transmission by using a white wax wood pole for practice.
• Fang Shuwen successfully unifies his force, snapping the pole with a single punch.
• Zheng Yuanpei and Fang Shuwen play another game of chess; Fang Shuwen 'loses' intentionally, focused on his training breakthrough.
• Zheng Shulan gives Fang Shuwen a bundle of high-quality jade stones as a token of gratitude for his help.

Character Developments

• Fang Shuwen: Discovers a crucial flaw in his Soaring Snake Fist technique and begins to correct it under Zheng Yuanpei's guidance. He also shows improved chess skills but remains focused on his martial arts progress.
• Zheng Yuanpei: Demonstrates his expertise in martial arts and willingness to guide Fang Shuwen, showing a more mentoring side to his character.
• Zheng Shulan: Shows gratitude towards Fang Shuwen by giving him high-quality jade stones, indicating her growing appreciation for him.

Significant Themes

• Martial Arts Training: The chapter emphasizes the importance of correcting flaws in one's technique and the dedication required for improvement, as seen in Fang Shuwen's relentless practice.
• Mentorship: Zheng Yuanpei's guidance towards Fang Shuwen highlights the theme of learning from an expert and the value of such mentorship in personal growth.
• Gratitude: Zheng Shulan's gift to Fang Shuwen underscores the theme of expressing gratitude for help received.

Character Interactions

• Fang Shuwen and Zheng Yuanpei: Their interaction revolves around Zheng Yuanpei's guidance on Fang Shuwen's martial arts, with Zheng Yuanpei showing a more patient and instructive side.
• Fang Shuwen and Zheng Shulan: Their interaction is brief but significant, as Zheng Shulan expresses her gratitude towards Fang Shuwen by giving him a valuable gift.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Shuwen is stalked by a martial artist with Bright Force power.
• He attempts to evade his pursuer through an abandoned vegetable market.
• Fang Shuwen decides to absorb multiple pieces of Ghost Jade to enhance his strength.

Character Developments

• Fang Shuwen demonstrates his Snake Form Talent, evading his pursuer through narrow gaps.
• He shows determination and desperation, willing to risk absorbing multiple Ghost Jade pieces to save himself.

Significant Themes

• The theme of survival and desperation is highlighted as Fang Shuwen faces a powerful opponent.
• The power and danger of Ghost Jade are emphasized as Fang Shuwen absorbs multiple pieces.

Character Interactions

• Fang Shuwen interacts with his pursuer, trying to stall and outmaneuver him.
• There's no direct interaction with other characters in this chapter, but thoughts of Guo Ziming and Lin Xiu flash through Fang Shuwen's mind as potential senders of his pursuer.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Shuwen absorbs the energy from the Ghost Jade, gaining 37 skill points.
• A Bright Force martial artist, Lin's subordinate, finds and attacks Fang Shuwen.
• Fang Shuwen upgrades his "Soaring Snake Fist" skill using the skill points, significantly enhancing his strength.
• Fang Shuwen defeats the Bright Force martial artist in a fierce exchange of punches.

Character Developments

• Fang Shuwen's strength improves dramatically after upgrading his skill, demonstrating his potential and growth.
• The Bright Force martial artist underestimates Fang Shuwen, leading to his eventual defeat.

Significant Themes

• The power of skill points and upgrades in enhancing abilities.
• The importance of adaptability and quick thinking in combat (Fang Shuwen's use of lime powder and strategic retreats).
• The dangers of underestimating opponents.

Character Interactions

• Fang Shuwen and the Bright Force martial artist engage in a tense, high-stakes battle, showcasing their respective strengths and techniques.
• The Bright Force martial artist's underestimation of Fang Shuwen leads to a shift in power dynamics during their fight.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Shuwen kills a Bright Force martial artist, Wang Jiu, from the Folklore and Antiquities Investigation Division.
• He finds a fragment of a body-tempering technique on Wang Jiu's body.
• Fang Shuwen hides Wang Jiu's body and returns home, avoiding detection.
• He discovers significant improvements in his martial arts attributes after the fight.

Character Developments

• Fang Shuwen demonstrates growth in his martial skills, defeating a Bright Force martial artist.
• He shows resourcefulness and caution in hiding Wang Jiu's body and avoiding pursuit.
• Fang Shuwen's concern for his father's well-being is evident.

Significant Themes

• The power of martial arts and its dangers.
• The importance of caution and secrecy in dealing with powerful enemies.
• The value of self-improvement and learning.

Character Interactions

• Fang Shuwen's interaction with his father, Old Fang, shows his filial piety.
• His encounter with Wang Jiu highlights the ruthlessness and danger of the Folklore and Antiquities Investigation Division.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Shuwen learns to integrate his force, reducing skill point consumption for martial arts practice.
• He discovers the 'Copper Pole Technique' from Wang Jiu, which can create 'Copper Skin' defense, resistant to blades and small-caliber firearms.
• The technique requires a medicinal bath using rare ingredients like 'Light Gold' and 'Red Copper', and a ritual before practice.
• Fang Shuwen visits Renji Hall, the largest pharmacy in Xikou, to inquire about the ingredients but learns they're not medicinal and can't be bought there.

Character Developments

• Fang Shuwen becomes more determined to practice diligently to reduce skill point consumption.
• He shows curiosity and initiative in seeking information about the 'Copper Pole Technique'.

Significant Themes

• The importance of diligence and hard work in martial arts practice.
• The discovery of rare and unusual martial arts techniques and their requirements.

Character Interactions

• Fang Shuwen interacts with the old shopkeeper at Renji Hall, who warns him about the dangers of practicing unknown techniques.
• Lin Xiu and Officer Liang discuss the disappearance of Wang Jiu, showing concern for their colleague and the seriousness of the situation.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lin Xiu orders a search for Wang Jiu, alive or dead, using Zheng Yuanpei's residence as the center.
• Fang Shuwen returns to school, where he learns about the upcoming New Martial Arts instruction and the Middle School Martial Arts Tournament.
• Fang Shuwen overhears a conversation between Cuicui and Li Tong, where Li Tong asks Cuicui to lure Fang Shuwen out.
• Cuicui invites Fang Shuwen to dinner at a new restaurant.

Character Developments

• Lin Xiu shows determination in finding Wang Jiu, suggesting he might suspect Zheng Yuanpei's involvement.
• Fang Shuwen demonstrates maturity and restraint, choosing not to confront Cuicui and Li Tong immediately.
• Cuicui shows signs of jealousy and resentment towards Fang Shuwen's success, but still invites him for dinner.

Significant Themes

• Jealousy and Envy: Cuicui's resentment towards Fang Shuwen's success highlights the theme of jealousy and envy among peers.
• Trust and Betrayal: Li Tong's manipulation of Cuicui to lure Fang Shuwen out raises questions about trust and potential betrayal.
• Ambition and Opportunity: The Martial Arts Tournament presents an opportunity for the students to showcase their skills and ambition.

Character Interactions

• Lin Xiu and Officer Liang discuss the investigation, showing Lin Xiu's authority and Officer Liang's deference.
• Fang Shuwen overhears Cuicui and Li Tong, highlighting the tension between them and Fang Shuwen's awareness of their schemes.
• Cuicui invites Fang Shuwen to dinner, indicating a shift in her attitude towards him, possibly due to Li Tong's influence.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Tong waits with two intimidating men at a restaurant for Fang Shuwen, who never arrives.
• Li Tong plans to sell Cuicui to the men after waiting for three hours.
• Cuicui realizes Li Tong's true intentions and tries to escape, but the men prevent her.

Character Developments

• Li Tong reveals his true colors, showing no remorse for using and selling Cuicui.
• Cuicui realizes Li Tong's deceitfulness and regrets not listening to Fang Shuwen's warnings.

Significant Themes

• Deception and betrayal: Li Tong deceives Cuicui and plans to sell her.
• Power imbalance: The two men's intimidating presence and Li Tong's manipulation create an unequal power dynamic.
• Regret and realization: Cuicui regrets not listening to Fang Shuwen's warnings and realizes Li Tong's true nature.

Character Interactions

• Li Tong, Cuicui, and two men (bald and bearded) interact, with Li Tong and the men planning to sell Cuicui.
• Li Tong's cold indifference towards Cuicui's distress contrasts with his earlier gentleness, highlighting his deceit.
• Cuicui's pleas for help to Li Tong go unanswered, emphasizing his betrayal.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Cuicui is kidnapped by the Wild Wolf Gang members, including Li Tong.
• Fang Shuwen, now a Bright Force martial artist, intervenes and kills the two gang members (bald man and bearded man) in a swift and brutal manner.
• Li Tong, terrified, tries to negotiate and beg for his life, but Fang Shuwen refuses to spare him.
• Li Tong reveals a hidden gun and attempts to shoot Fang Shuwen.

Character Developments

• Fang Shuwen demonstrates his growth as a martial artist, defeating two opponents with ease.
• Li Tong shows his cowardice and desperation, resorting to begging and ultimately attempting to shoot Fang Shuwen.

Significant Themes

• The consequences of one's actions: Li Tong's involvement in human trafficking leads to his demise.
• The power of martial arts: Fang Shuwen's skills allow him to overpower and defeat his enemies quickly.

Character Interactions

• Fang Shuwen vs. Wild Wolf Gang members: A one-sided fight where Fang Shuwen showcases his superior martial arts skills.
• Li Tong's begging and eventual attempt to shoot Fang Shuwen: A desperate attempt to save his own life, highlighting Li Tong's cowardice and lack of honor.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Shuwen kills Li Tong and his men in self-defense after they attempt to assassinate him.
• He disposes of the bodies and steals Li Tong's wealth.
• Three days later, news of the murders surfaces, with the Public Security Bureau offering a reward for the culprit's capture.
• Wang Jiu's body is found, with injuries matching the three corpses in the newspaper, suggesting a common killer.

Character Developments

• Fang Shuwen demonstrates exceptional martial arts skills, using his Snake Form Talent to dodge a bullet and counterattacking with a powerful punch.
• He shows pragmatism and cunning by stealing Li Tong's wealth and disposing of the bodies without leaving traces.
• Cuicui is traumatized after witnessing the events and avoids Fang Shuwen.
• Lin Xiu, the Section Chief of the Folklore and Antiquities Investigation Division, is methodical and perceptive, noticing the similarities between the murder victims.

Significant Themes

• Survival of the fittest: Fang Shuwen's actions are driven by self-preservation and the desire to improve his life.
• Corruption and lawlessness: The Public Security Bureau's lack of interest in investigating the murders highlights the chaotic and unruly society.
• Power dynamics: Fang Shuwen's martial arts skills allow him to overcome more powerful opponents, challenging traditional power structures.

Character Interactions

• Fang Shuwen and Li Tong's confrontation ends in Li Tong's death.
• Fang Shuwen and Cuicui have minimal interaction, with Cuicui avoiding him due to fear and guilt.
• Lin Xiu and Officer Liang discuss the murder case, with Lin Xiu assigning Officer Liang to investigate Li Tong's connections.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Shuwen continues to practice his Soaring Snake Fist, reaching the Great Success stage.
• Zhao Wanqing, the eldest daughter of the Zhao Family, returns and finds Fang Shuwen practicing. She spars with him, revealing she has reached the Dark Force stage.

Character Developments

• Fang Shuwen: He has improved his martial arts skills, reaching the Great Success stage in Soaring Snake Fist. He also demonstrates keen observation skills, recognizing Zhao Wanqing's Dark Force.
• Zhao Wanqing: She returns from Shenghai Martial University, having reached the Dark Force stage in martial arts. She shows confidence and a competitive spirit, challenging Fang Shuwen to a spar.

Significant Themes

• Martial Arts Progression: The chapter emphasizes the importance of consistent practice and the stages of martial arts development, from Bright Force to Dark Force.
• Talent and Ambition: Zhao Wanqing's martial arts prowess highlights her exceptional talent and ambition, setting her apart from others her age.

Character Interactions

• Fang Shuwen and Zhao Wanqing: Their interaction reveals their shared passion for martial arts and mutual respect. Despite their age difference, they engage in a friendly yet competitive spar, with Zhao Wanqing pushing Fang Shuwen to recognize her Dark Force.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Shuwen discovers Zhao Wanqing, the eldest daughter of the Zhao Family, is a Grand Martial Master of the Dark Force.
• Fang Shuwen spars with Zhao Wanqing, who praises his martial arts skills.
• Fang Shuwen arrives at school and finds Zheng Shulan sitting in his seat. She reveals that a Grand Martial Master of the Dark Force will be teaching New Martial Arts at their school.
• Guo Ziming, who harbors feelings for Zheng Shulan, orders his lackey to set up a meeting with Fang Shuwen after school.

Character Developments

• Fang Shuwen: He has improved his martial arts skills, reaching the Bright Force realm, and is no longer the arrogant sidekick he once was. He shows humility and maturity.
• Zhao Wanqing: She is revealed to be a powerful martial artist, hiding her strength. She is interested in studying Old Martial Arts and sparring with Fang Shuwen.
• Zheng Shulan: She transfers to Fang Shuwen's school, seeking to learn New Martial Arts from the incoming instructor. She shows interest in Fang Shuwen's martial arts skills.
• Guo Ziming: He becomes jealous and angry when he sees Zheng Shulan with Fang Shuwen. He plans to challenge Fang Shuwen after school to assert his dominance.

Significant Themes

• Martial Arts and Skill Development: The chapter emphasizes the importance of martial arts training and the respect given to those who master these skills.
• Jealousy and Rivalry: Guo Ziming's jealousy of Fang Shuwen's relationship with Zheng Shulan drives him to challenge Fang Shuwen.
• Change and Growth: Fang Shuwen's transformation from an arrogant sidekick to a humble and skilled martial artist highlights the theme of personal growth.

Character Interactions

• Fang Shuwen and Zhao Wanqing: They spar and express mutual respect for each other's martial arts skills. Zhao Wanqing invites Fang Shuwen to spar again.
• Fang Shuwen and Zheng Shulan: They reunite at school, and Zheng Shulan reveals the reason for her transfer. They show interest in each other's martial arts backgrounds.
• Guo Ziming and Fang Shuwen: Guo Ziming's jealousy of Fang Shuwen's relationship with Zheng Shulan leads him to challenge Fang Shuwen to a fight.

Key Plot Points & Events

• Chen Asan, now a lackey to Guo Ziming, confronts Fang Shuwen, relaying Guo's message for a meeting.
• Fang Shuwen rejects the meeting, stating he and Guo should act like strangers.
• Guo Ziming, furious at Fang's refusal, vows to deal with him the next day.
• Fang Shuwen visits the bookstore, discovering the new 'Strange Tales of the Ancient Castle' lacks its previous exotic energy.

Character Developments

• Chen Asan: Once proud and hardworking, he now serves Guo Ziming, feeling bitter and resentful towards Fang Shuwen's success.
• Guo Ziming: Still power-hungry and vengeful, he's now more determined to confront Fang Shuwen.
• Fang Shuwen: Maintains his indifference and calm demeanor, showing no fear of Guo Ziming's threats.

Significant Themes

• The theme of pride and fall, as seen in Chen Asan's transformation from a proud student to a lackey.
• The exploration of power dynamics, with Guo Ziming trying to assert his influence over Fang Shuwen.

Character Interactions

• Chen Asan vs. Fang Shuwen: Chen's resentment and smugness clash with Fang's calm indifference.
• Guo Ziming vs. Fang Shuwen: Guo's anger and determination contrast with Fang's nonchalance.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ding Hongzhi, an investigative commissioner, arrives in Xikou County to follow up on the Soaring Snake Counter-Scale case.
• He criticizes Lin Xiu, the local investigator, for lack of progress.
• Ding Hongzhi tries to involve Zheng Shulan, Zheng Yuanpei's granddaughter, in the investigation but faces resistance from Zheng Kui, the Public Security Bureau Chief and Zheng Yuanpei's nephew.
• Ding Hongzhi focuses on Fang Shuwen, a student with sudden academic and martial arts improvements, as a potential lead.

Character Developments

• Ding Hongzhi: Shows determination and persistence in solving the case, even when facing obstacles like the Zheng Family's influence.
• Lin Xiu: Initially apathetic and sarcastic towards Ding Hongzhi, but later shows deference to his superior's decision to investigate Fang Shuwen.
• Zheng Kui: Demonstrates the Zheng Family's power and influence in Xikou County by refusing to cooperate with Ding Hongzhi.

Significant Themes

• The influence of local clans (the Zheng Family) on political and legal systems.
• The struggle between local power dynamics and national interests (represented by Ding Hongzhi and the Folklore and Antiquities Investigation Division).

Character Interactions

• Ding Hongzhi and Lin Xiu: Initially at odds due to differing investigation approaches, but they align when Ding Hongzhi decides to focus on Fang Shuwen.
• Ding Hongzhi and Zheng Kui: Their interaction highlights the Zheng Family's power and Ding Hongzhi's inability to exert authority over them.
• Ding Hongzhi's decision to involve himself in bringing Fang Shuwen in shows his personal commitment to the case.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Folklore and Antiquities Investigation Department arrives at the Zhao Estate to take Fang Shuwen for questioning.
• Officer Liang leads the team, accompanied by two armed officers.
• Zhao Wanqing intervenes, revealing herself as a Dark Force Grand Martial Master, and orders the officers to leave.
• The officers retreat, and Zhao Wanqing installs an iron gate at the back entrance for protection.

Character Developments

• Fang Shuwen remains calm and composed throughout the encounter, hinting at hidden strength and secrets.
• Officer Liang shows deference to Zhao Wanqing upon realizing her martial arts level, demonstrating the power dynamics at play.
• Zhao Wanqing displays her authority and martial prowess, protecting Fang Shuwen and upholding the Zhao Estate's reputation.

Significant Themes

• Power and influence: Zhao Wanqing's martial arts level and status as the eldest daughter of the Zhao Estate allow her to intimidate the officers and protect Fang Shuwen.
• Secrets and hidden strength: Fang Shuwen's calm demeanor suggests he has secrets and possibly hidden abilities that he hasn't revealed yet.

Character Interactions

• Fang Shuwen and Zhao Wanqing: They share a moment of understanding, with Zhao Wanqing protecting Fang Shuwen and acknowledging their sibling-like relationship.
• Officer Liang and Zhao Wanqing: Officer Liang shows deference to Zhao Wanqing upon realizing her martial arts level, highlighting the power dynamics between them.
• Old Fang and Fang Shuwen: Old Fang is worried and protective of Fang Shuwen, showing their close relationship.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Mother Wang gossips about Little Fang (Fang Shuwen) being visited by officials, speculating he might have committed a crime.
• Hu Da defends Little Fang, telling Mother Wang to mind her own business.
• Cuicui (Mother Wang's daughter) is unwell and worried about her delayed period, hinting at a possible pregnancy.
• Commissioner Ding learns about Zhao Wanqing's intervention in the investigation involving Fang Shuwen and orders him to be watched secretly.

Character Developments

• Mother Wang: Shows her gossipy and judgmental nature, but also cares for her daughter's well-being.
• Hu Da: Stands up for Little Fang, indicating he might know more about him than he lets on.
• Cuicui: Struggles with potential consequences of a sexual assault, but keeps it to herself.
• Commissioner Ding: Realizes the gravity of the situation involving the Zhao Family and adjusts his approach.
• Lin Xiu: Shows curiosity and caution about Zhao Wanqing's influence.

Significant Themes

• Gossip and its consequences
• The power dynamics of the Zhao Family and their influence
• The struggle of women in a patriarchal society (Cuicui's situation)

Character Interactions

• Mother Wang and Hu Da: They clash over Little Fang's character and the officials' visit.
• Mother Wang and Cuicui: Mother Wang expresses concern for Cuicui's health but is unaware of her daughter's distress.
• Commissioner Ding and Lin Xiu: They discuss the Zhao Family's influence and decide to monitor Fang Shuwen secretly.
• Old Fang and Fang Shuwen: Old Fang worries about his son but doesn't pry into the situation, showing trust in him.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wang Yue, leader of the Wild Wolf Gang, is shown photographs of his brother's murder, which he believes could be connected to a student named Fang Shuwen.
• Ding Hongzhi, from the Investigation Division, visits Wang Yue, hinting that Fang Shuwen might have information about Wang Hu's death.
• Fang Shuwen visits the National Martial Arts Hall and learns about demon hunting bounties, which could reward him with Ghost Jade and potentially skill points.

Character Developments

• Wang Yue: Displayed his ruthless and calculating nature, willing to collaborate with Ding Hongzhi to find his brother's killer.
• Ding Hongzhi: Showed his cunning and manipulative side, using Wang Yue to pursue his own agenda.
• Fang Shuwen: Demonstrated his growing ambition and resourcefulness, considering demon hunting for profit and skill points.

Significant Themes

• Ambition and power: Characters like Wang Yue and Fang Shuwen are driven by their desire for power and influence.
• Manipulation and alliances: Characters form temporary alliances to achieve their goals, as seen between Ding Hongzhi and Wang Yue.
• The hunt for knowledge and resources: Fang Shuwen's pursuit of Ghost Jade and skill points highlights the theme of seeking rare and valuable resources.

Character Interactions

• Wang Yue and Ding Hongzhi: The two engage in a tense exchange, with Wang Yue displaying his disdain for Ding Hongzhi, while the latter maintains a calm and calculated demeanor.
• Fang Shuwen and the old man at the National Martial Arts Hall: Their interaction reveals the old man's gruff and straightforward nature, as well as Fang Shuwen's determination and curiosity.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Shuwen decides to take a mission at Green Wolf Mountain.
• He needs to get certified as a martial artist to accept the mission, so he takes the certification test at the National Martial Arts Hall.
• After passing the test, he learns about the privilege of exchanging a free martial art corresponding to his realm (Bright Force) at the Library Pavilion.

Character Developments

• Fang Shuwen demonstrates his strength and passes the certification test, proving his martial prowess.
• Lin Wen, the female receptionist, shows professionalism and knowledge about the certification process.
• The old man at the Library Pavilion is introduced as knowledgeable and helpful, guiding Fang Shuwen through the process of choosing a free martial art.

Significant Themes

• The importance of martial artist certification for accepting missions and enjoying privileges.
• The value and variety of martial arts techniques, with each having its unique characteristics.

Character Interactions

• Fang Shuwen interacts with Lin Wen, the female receptionist, who guides him through the certification process.
• He also interacts with the old man at the Library Pavilion, who helps him choose a free martial art.
• Although not physically present, the female receptionist's boss is mentioned, indicating a hierarchical structure within the National Martial Arts Hall.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Shuwen chooses the Mountain Crushing Force martial arts manual from the Library Pavilion.
• The old man warns him about the technique's difficulty and long cultivation time.
• Fang Shuwen encounters Cuicui outside the Zhao Estate, who expresses hatred towards him.
• Fang Shuwen starts practicing the Mountain Crushing Force in the courtyard.
• He successfully unleashes a sliver of Mountain Crushing Force, triggering a proficiency notification on his panel.

Character Developments

• Fang Shuwen demonstrates determination and persistence in choosing and practicing the Mountain Crushing Force, despite its difficulty.
• Cuicui reveals her hatred towards Fang Shuwen, likely due to past events and her current predicament.

Significant Themes

• Determination and Persistence: Fang Shuwen shows resolve in choosing and practicing a challenging martial art.
• Hatred and Resentment: Cuicui's hatred towards Fang Shuwen hints at a complex backstory and emotional turmoil.

Character Interactions

• Fang Shuwen interacts briefly with the old man in the Library Pavilion, who warns him about the Mountain Crushing Force.
• Fang Shuwen encounters Cuicui outside the Zhao Estate, leading to a tense exchange between them.
• Fang Shuwen interacts with Hu Da, who saves some food for him.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Shuwen successfully records the martial art Mountain Crushing Force in two hours using the panel.
• He upgrades Mountain Crushing Force from 'Not Initiated' to 'Initiated' and then to 'Proficient' using skill points, significantly enhancing his striking power.
• Fang Shuwen decides to leave the city to scout the area near Green Wolf Mountain, where a mission target is located.

Character Developments

• Fang Shuwen demonstrates his dedication to improving his martial arts skills, spending hours practicing and upgrading his technique.
• He shows strategic thinking by planning to scout the mission target area before deciding how to act.

Significant Themes

• The theme of hard work and dedication is reinforced as Fang Shuwen spends hours practicing and upgrading his skills.
• The theme of preparation and planning is evident in Fang Shuwen's decision to scout the mission target area before acting.

Character Interactions

• Fang Shuwen interacts with Old Fang and Steward Chen, borrowing a bicycle from the latter to leave the city.
• He also interacts with the villagers at Big Willow Village, although this is not detailed in the chapter.