Chapter Summaries

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ju Hua, the main character, creates a Second Primordial Spirit to protect his little sister, Zhuanshui Qiu, without revealing its existence to her.
• Ju Hua leaves to continue his cultivation journey, promising to return in ten years.
• Ten years later, a powerful demon, the Great King of Luo Huang Mountain, emerges from seclusion and learns about Ju Hua's prowess, sparking her interest and curiosity.

Character Developments

• Ju Hua: Shows his dedication and love for his little sister by creating a secret guardian for her and planning to help her become stronger.
• Zhuanshui Qiu: Still relies on her brother but is willing to learn and improve her cultivation skills.
• Great King of Luo Huang Mountain: Confident in her strength and power, she becomes intrigued by Ju Hua's abilities and sees him as a potential rival.

Significant Themes

• Protection and love between siblings (Ju Hua and Zhuanshui Qiu)
• Power dynamics and competition among cultivators (Ju Hua and the Great King)
• The struggle to become stronger and face challenges (Ju Hua's journey and the Great King's stagnation)

Character Interactions

• Ju Hua and Zhuanshui Qiu: Their bond deepens as Ju Hua teaches her cultivation techniques, and Zhuanshui Qiu shows her determination to improve.
• Ju Hua and the Great King: Although they haven't met yet, their rivalry is established through the Great King's curiosity about Ju Hua's abilities and her belief in her own power.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhuanshui Juhua, a powerful cultivator, arrives at Luo Huang Mountain, home to the Heavenly Phoenix Demon King and her demon faction.
• Juhua declares his intention to "slay demons and eliminate evil," referring to the faction's bullying of the weak.
• The Heavenly Phoenix Demon King, initially dismissive, attacks Juhua, activating the mountain's grand formation.
• Juhua easily breaks the formation, defeats the Demon King in her human form, and destroys the entire mountain, killing all demons except one Kuihou, who escapes but is later killed by Juhua.

Character Developments

• Zhuanshui Juhua: Displayed immense power, comparable to a Celestial Immortal. He is calm, confident, and has a clear moral compass, seeking to punish evil deeds.
• Heavenly Phoenix Demon King: Initially arrogant and dismissive, she becomes fearful and submissive upon realizing Juhua's power. She acknowledges her subordinates' wrongdoings and understands the consequences of their actions on her Heavenly Tribulation.

Significant Themes

• Might Makes Right: Juhua's power allows him to enforce his moral code, punishing the demon faction for their misdeeds.
• Consequences of Actions: The Demon King's subordinates' actions have consequences not only for themselves but also for their leader, affecting her chances of passing the Heavenly Tribulation.

Character Interactions

• Zhuanshui Juhua and Heavenly Phoenix Demon King: Juhua challenges and defeats the Demon King, then demands her servitude. She initially resists but eventually accepts due to his overwhelming power.
• Heavenly Phoenix Demon King and her subordinates: The Demon King is aware of her subordinates' misdeeds but is initially too lazy to intervene. After seeing the evidence, she acknowledges their wrongdoings and their fate.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ju Hua recruits Feng Yu, a powerful demon king, to protect and guide his sister, Zhuanshui Qiu, for a million years in exchange for her freedom after that period.
• Ju Hua and Feng Yu return to the Zhuanshui Clan, where Ju Hua secures a position as a guest elder for Feng Yu.
• Ju Hua explains his intentions to Feng Yu, emphasizing the importance of protecting and nurturing his sister.
• Ju Hua leaves the Zhuanshui Clan, confident in Feng Yu's abilities and the protection of his Second Primordial Spirit.

Character Developments

• Ju Hua: Demonstrates his growing power and influence, as well as his concern and care for his sister's well-being.
• Feng Yu: Initially reluctant, Feng Yu agrees to protect Zhuanshui Qiu after learning about the potential reward of a treasure to help survive the Celestial God Tribulation.

Significant Themes

• Protection and Care: Ju Hua's primary concern is ensuring his sister's safety and growth.
• Trust and Dependability: Ju Hua entrusts Feng Yu with a crucial task, demonstrating his confidence in her abilities.
• Long-term Planning: Ju Hua's actions show his foresight and strategic thinking.

Character Interactions

• Ju Hua and Feng Yu: They form an agreement based on mutual benefit, with Ju Hua offering a significant reward for Feng Yu's service.
• Ju Hua and Zhuanshui Qing: The clan leader readily agrees to Ju Hua's request to make Feng Yu a guest elder, showing deference to Ju Hua's status and standing.
• Ju Hua and Zhuanshui Qiu: Though not present, Zhuanshui Qiu's well-being is the primary focus of Ju Hua's actions in this chapter.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ju Hua and Jiuhua Immortal meet on a small island in the Northern Underworld Sea.
• They decide to enter the Northern Underworld Space together, swearing a Heavenly Dao oath not to harm each other.
• They traverse the Western Wasteland, avoiding swarms of Soul-Devouring Ants, and cross a dangerous river filled with flesh-craving beasts.
• After a month of travel, they reach their destination: a mountain peak shaped like a swimming fish.

Character Developments

• Ju Hua: Shows caution and wisdom by suggesting a Heavenly Dao oath to prevent internal strife. He also demonstrates a willingness to learn and broaden his experiences.
• Jiuhua Immortal: Reveals his extensive knowledge of the Northern Underworld Space, guiding Ju Hua safely through its dangers. He also displays a relaxed and friendly demeanor.

Significant Themes

• Caution and Cautionary Measures: Ju Hua's suggestion of a Heavenly Dao oath highlights the importance of taking precautions against potential threats, even among allies.
• Broadening Experiences: Ju Hua's decision to accompany Jiuhua Immortal emphasizes the value of gaining diverse experiences to enhance one's cultivation and personal growth.

Character Interactions

• Ju Hua and Jiuhua Immortal maintain a polite and respectful relationship, with both showing a willingness to cooperate and learn from each other.
• Despite their different motivations for entering the Northern Underworld Space, they work together to navigate its dangers and reach their shared goal.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ju Hua and Jiuhua Immortal arrive at a mountain peak where a grand formation conceals a space.
• They decide to rest for three days before proceeding.
• After resting, they remove the formation, revealing the words "Xiaoyao Cave Heaven."
• Ju Hua recognizes the aura as that of the Heavenly Dao, suggesting the space might belong to a Pure Yang True Immortal or even a Dao Ancestor.

Character Developments

• Ju Hua: He has mastered the ninth form of the Great Sorrow Sword Art and has made significant progress in the Great Dao of Heaven and Earth, reaching a level comparable to the seventh form.
• Jiuhua Immortal: He reveals that he has set up the grand formation to hide the space and implies that he lacks the magnanimity to share the opportunity with others.

Significant Themes

• Opportunity and Preparation: Ju Hua emphasizes the importance of being in peak condition to seize opportunities, and he has prepared for potential dangers by mastering a secret technique in the art of deduction.
• Talent and Progression: Ju Hua's talent is extraordinary, allowing him to make rapid progress in his cultivation. However, this sudden surge in talent also presents a potential threat.
• The Heavenly Dao: The aura of the Heavenly Dao is revealed, suggesting the possibility of encountering a highly advanced cultivator or a powerful Dao Ancestor.

Character Interactions

• Ju Hua and Jiuhua Immortal interact briefly, with Ju Hua showing respect for Jiuhua Immortal's formation and Jiuhua Immortal acknowledging Ju Hua's sharp eye.
• Ju Hua does not reveal his full capabilities to Jiuhua Immortal, maintaining a level of secrecy.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ju Hua and Jiuhua Immortal discover the "Xiaoyao Cave Heaven" cave dwelling, left behind by a Dao Ancestor.
• They activate a Yin-Yang Array to enter the cave, which transports them to a space with nine massive stars, each protected by a powerful array.
• Meanwhile, thousands of Celestial Immortals, god-demons, and loose immortals from various worlds are also drawn to the Xiaoyao Cave Heaven.

Character Developments

• Jiuhua Immortal: Initially excited about the discovery, he later calms down and acknowledges the potential dangers and trials ahead.
• Ju Hua: Maintains a cautious and analytical approach, understanding the potential risks and the need for cooperation.

Significant Themes

• The allure and danger of powerful legacies left behind by ancient, powerful beings.
• The importance of caution and cooperation in the face of unknown challenges.

Character Interactions

• Ju Hua and Jiuhua Immortal: They decide to work together to navigate the trials and challenges ahead, acknowledging the need for mutual support and trust.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jiuhua Immortal and Ju Hua encounter Lu Xiu, a Pure Yang True Immortal and disciple of Xiaoyao Celestial, who reveals that the Xiaoyao Cave Heaven is open for discipleship selection.
• Lu Xiu informs them that the Xiaoyao Cave Heaven opens periodically, attracting cultivators from numerous major worlds within the Xiaoyao Domain.
• Lu Xiu reveals that the current opening is specifically for Jiuhua Immortal and Ju Hua, as they triggered a formation left behind by Xiaoyao Celestial in the Great Xia World.

Character Developments

• Jiuhua Immortal's excitement fluctuates between hope and apprehension as he learns about the opportunity to become a disciple of Xiaoyao Celestial.
• Ju Hua remains composed and curious, showing no signs of excessive emotion despite the significant opportunity presented.

Significant Themes

• Fate: Xiaoyao Celestial believes in fate, and the opening of the Xiaoyao Cave Heaven is seen as a manifestation of this belief.
• Opportunity and Challenge: While the opportunity to become a disciple of Xiaoyao Celestial is immense, it comes with trials that must be overcome.

Character Interactions

• Lu Xiu, Jiuhua Immortal, and Ju Hua interact, with Lu Xiu providing information and guidance, and Jiuhua Immortal and Ju Hua reacting to the revelations.
• Jiuhua Immortal feels that Ju Hua is riding on his coattails, while Ju Hua remains enigmatic about his thoughts and intentions.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Xiu, a Loose Immortal, reveals that his master, Xiaoyao Celestial, has nine trials for potential disciples.
• Ju Hua and Jiuhua Immortal receive Teleportation Tokens to access the trials in the Xiaoyao Cave Heaven.
• Ju Hua decides to observe the trials first before choosing the order in which to attempt them.
• Jiuhua Immortal warns Ju Hua not to reveal their origin from the Great Xia World.

Character Developments

• Ju Hua demonstrates prudence and strategic thinking in planning his approach to the trials.
• Jiuhua Immortal shows caution and nervousness due to the temptation of becoming a Dao Ancestor's disciple.

Significant Themes

• The temptation of power and status, and the lengths cultivators will go to achieve them.
• The importance of background and connections in the cultivation world.
• The value of personal strength and individual cultivation versus guidance from powerful figures.

Character Interactions

• Ju Hua and Jiuhua Immortal discuss their plans and strategies for the trials.
• Ju Hua and Jiuhua Immortal agree to part ways, acknowledging that their paths may differ.
• Ju Hua arrives at the first trial star, observing the rules and other cultivators present.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ju Hua spends three days understanding the trials in the Xiaoyao Cave Heaven.
• He enters a star trial focused on creating a new technique within 100 years to defeat a Trial Puppet.
• Ju Hua begins studying various sword arts manuals, initially aiming to pass the trial quickly.
• Over 15 years, he reads countless sword arts, leading to a breakthrough in his understanding of the Dao of the Sword.
• Ju Hua creates three sword arts (Killing Heart, Willow Swaying, and an unnamed peak-tier art) but is dissatisfied with each.
• After contemplation, he realizes something and prepares to create a new sword art.

Character Development

• Ju Hua's understanding of the Dao of the Sword deepens as he reads various sword arts.
• His initial goal of quickly passing the trial evolves into a pursuit of creating a unique, satisfactory sword art.
• He demonstrates patience and dedication, spending years on each sword art before moving on.

Significant Themes

• The importance of thorough understanding and accumulation in cultivation.
• Pursuit of perfection and dissatisfaction with mediocrity.
• The value of learning from various sources to gain new insights.

Character Interactions

• Ju Hua interacts with the Cave Heaven Spirit, who monitors his progress but does not interfere.
• There's no direct interaction with other characters in this chapter.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhuanshui Juhua realizes his dissatisfaction with his current sword arts and understands that the Bright Moon Sword Art from Desolate Era is the best.
• He decides to strive for creating a sword art comparable to the Bright Moon Sword Art, understanding it won't be easy and may take time.
• He spends 20 years studying the Great Dao of Heaven and Earth and 20 years studying the Dao of Deduction to fill in his shortcomings.
• After 100 years, he faces an Ox-Head Puppet in a duel and wins, displaying the sixth level of the Great Sorrow Sword Art.
• He names his new sword art the 'Unity Sword Art' and leaves it in the Xiaoyao Cave Heaven, receiving a token for a high-grade Immortal-ranked magic treasure in return.

Character Developments

• Zhuanshui Juhua's ambition grows as he sets his sights on creating a sword art comparable to the Bright Moon Sword Art.
• He shows determination and resolve in pursuing his goal, even if it means facing challenges and setbacks.
• His understanding and comprehension of the Great Dao of Heaven and Earth, and the Dao of Deduction, improve significantly.

Significant Themes

• Ambition and determination in pursuing one's goals, even in the face of overwhelming challenges.
• The importance of continuous learning and self-improvement.
• The recognition and rewards for one's hard work and achievements.

Character Interactions

• Zhuanshui Juhua interacts with the Cave Heaven Spirit, who arranges his duel and rewards him for his achievements.
• He faces the Ox-Head Puppet in a duel, showcasing his skills and determination.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ju Hua continues trials on stars 2-8, passing 5 and failing 3, aiming to become a true disciple.
• Final trial on the ninth star involves surviving in a Magma Purgatory for 30 years, facing endless Magma Lifeforms.
• Ju Hua encounters the Jiuhua Immortal, who has failed the final trial.

Character Developments

• Ju Hua shows strategic planning in his trial approach, aiming to become a true disciple without appearing too deliberate.
• The Jiuhua Immortal shows disappointment and loss of hope after failing the final trial.

Significant Themes

• Mental fortitude and resilience as the key to survival in the Magma Purgatory.
• The relentless and overwhelming nature of challenges, symbolized by the endless Magma Lifeforms.

Character Interactions

• Ju Hua and the Jiuhua Immortal meet briefly, with the latter expressing his failure and wishing Ju Hua success.
• Ju Hua interacts with the Cave Heaven Spirit, who warns him about the risks of the final trial.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ju Hua spends 20 years in the Magma Purgatory, refining his sword techniques and eventually grasping the 'Power of the Sword'.
• He stays in the Magma Purgatory for another 3 years after grasping the Power of the Sword.
• Ju Hua completes all nine trials and is granted the title of a named disciple of the Xiaoyao Celestial.

Character Developments

• Ju Hua's swordsmanship improves significantly, leading to a deeper understanding of the Dao of the Sword.
• He learns to adapt and grow stronger in harsh environments, demonstrating resilience and determination.

Significant Themes

• The importance of persistent practice and refinement in mastering skills.
• The concept of the 'Power of the Sword' as the essential Dao of the Sword, valid everywhere.
• The difference between the Dao of the Sword within the Three Realms and that of the Chaos Universe.

Character Interactions

• Ju Hua interacts with the Cave Heaven Spirit, who provides guidance and bestows the named disciple token.
• Ju Hua's internal dialogue reveals his thoughts and plans, showing his strategic thinking and caution.

Plot Points and Events

• Ju Hua leaves the Xiaoyao Cave Heaven after two hundred years and arrives in the Tianzhou Great World.
• He learns about the structure and powers of the world, dominated by Daoist sects.
• Ju Hua decides to temper his Dao Heart by living as a mortal and experiences life in a small border town.

Character Developments

• Ju Hua continues to grow stronger, comprehending the Dao of the Sword and the Great Dao of Heaven and Earth, and reaching the 17th level of the Chiming Nine Heavens Map.
• He prepares for the Celestial God Tribulation, knowing that his secrets will be his most terrifying heart demons.

Significant Themes

• Tempering one's Dao Heart: Ju Hua chooses to live as a mortal to understand the hardships of the world and strengthen his resolve.
• The power dynamics of the Tianzhou Great World: The world is dominated by Daoist sects, with the Wuji Sect, Liesheng Palace, and the Yunmi Dao Sect holding unparalleled ruling power.

Character Interactions

• Ju Hua interacts with various matchmakers in the small town, with a persistent one named Qin being the most frequent visitor.
• Ju Hua's resolve to not marry is tested, and he faces the possibility of meeting the girl in person if he continues to refuse.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhong Mu, a wealthy and capable woman, is interested in marrying Ju Hua.
• The matchmaker arranges their marriage, setting the wedding for the eighth of the month.
• Ju Hua and Zhong Mu marry, with Ju Hua bringing Zhong Mu to his home.
• On their wedding night, Ju Hua discovers Zhong Mu is a skilled martial artist and puts her to sleep using his spiritual power.

Character Developments

• Ju Hua: Initially hesitant about the marriage, Ju Hua decides to go through with it to experience mortal life. He shows understanding and respect for Zhong Mu's feelings.
• Zhong Mu: Despite her wealth and power, Zhong Mu is shown to be a young woman with feelings and insecurities. She takes the initiative in the marriage and is open about her affection for Ju Hua.

Significant Themes

• Marriage and Relationships: The chapter explores the dynamics of arranged marriages and the complexities of relationships in a conservative society.
• Power Dynamics: It highlights the power dynamics between men and women, as well as the power Zhong Mu wields in her business and martial abilities.
• Identity and Integration: Ju Hua's decision to marry Zhong Mu reflects his desire to integrate into mortal life.

Character Interactions

• Ju Hua and Zhong Mu: Their interaction is minimal but significant. Ju Hua shows respect for Zhong Mu's feelings, while Zhong Mu is open about her affection for Ju Hua. Their wedding night is a turning point in their relationship.
• Ju Hua and the Matchmaker: The matchmaker plays a significant role in arranging their marriage. She is pushy but well-meaning, and her actions drive the plot forward.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhong Mu and Ju Hua wake up the morning after their wedding. Zhong Mu sneaks out to practice martial arts, unaware that Ju Hua is awake.
• Ju Hua watches Zhong Mu's training, impressed by her skill and potential.
• Ju Hua asks Zhong Mu why she chose him, and she explains her feelings and intentions.
• Zhong Mu takes Ju Hua to see their family business, marking the start of Ju Hua's new role as manager.
• After a few months, Zhong Mu breaks through to the Xiantian realm, causing a significant shift in their social status.
• Zhong Mu teaches Ju Hua martial arts, hoping he'll become an Xiantian being, but he shows no aptitude.
• Zhong Mu saves an old beggar who turns out to be a hidden immortal. He gifts her a profound internal energy cultivation method and complete fist techniques inheritance.

Character Developments

• Zhong Mu: Shows determination and capability in managing the family business. She's dedicated to her martial arts practice and becomes an Xiantian being. She's patient and understanding with Ju Hua, hoping to help him improve.
• Ju Hua: Initially hesitant about the marriage, he grows closer to Zhong Mu. He proves to be an excellent manager for the family business. Despite Zhong Mu's efforts, he shows no aptitude for martial arts and remains content as a mortal.

Significant Themes

• Trust and Understanding: Zhong Mu trusts Ju Hua with the family business, and Ju Hua is honest with Zhong Mu about his feelings. Their relationship deepens as they understand each other better.
• Ambition vs Contentment: Zhong Mu aspires to become stronger and live longer, while Ju Hua is content with his mortal life. This contrast highlights their differing goals and priorities.
• Status and Power: Zhong Mu's breakthrough to the Xiantian realm changes their social status and how others treat them, highlighting the influence of power in their world.

Character Interactions

• Zhong Mu and Ju Hua: Their relationship evolves from initial uncertainty to mutual understanding and support. Zhong Mu teaches Ju Hua martial arts, and they share the responsibilities of managing the family business.
• Zhong Mu and the Old Beggar: Their brief interaction leads to Zhong Mu receiving a significant gift, illustrating the concept of 'fortuitous encounters' in their world.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhong Mu, after obtaining an immortal's inheritance, shares it with Ju Hua, leading to his cultivation progress.
• Zhong Mu, now a Zifu cultivator, decides to leave Frost City after 30 years to find a way to help Ju Hua become a Xiantian lifeform.
• Ju Hua, secretly a cultivator, allows Zhong Mu to go and promises to wait for her return within ten years.
• Ju Hua breaks through to the fourth level of Heartforce, "Mortal Dust," and leaves Frost City to follow Zhong Mu.

Character Developments

• Zhong Mu: Becomes a Zifu cultivator, decides to leave Frost City to help Ju Hua, and is determined to return within ten years.
• Ju Hua: Breaks through to the fourth level of Heartforce, understands the true meaning of cultivation, and decides to follow Zhong Mu.

Significant Themes

• The struggle between mortals and cultivators, and the similarities in their conflicts and motivations.
• The purpose and meaning of cultivation, as understood by Ju Hua.
• The power of determination and will, as shown by Zhong Mu's decision to leave Frost City.

Character Interactions

• Zhong Mu and Ju Hua: They support each other's decisions, with Zhong Mu leaving to find a way to help Ju Hua, and Ju Hua promising to wait for her return.
• Ju Hua and the world of cultivators: Ju Hua reflects on the nature of cultivators and their conflicts, leading to his breakthrough.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ju Hua, preparing for his Celestial God Tribulation, experiences sudden enlightenment and Heartforce growth in Frost City.
• Zhong Mu, his Dao companion, seeks spiritual medicine in East Glory City to aid Ju Hua's tribulation.
• Zhong Mu is attacked by Zifu Disciples on her journey but escapes with the help of Ju Hua, who secretly protects her.
• Upon reaching East Glory City, Zhong Mu faces financial struggles and takes on dangerous tasks to earn Essence Liquid for the spiritual medicine.

Character Developments

• Ju Hua: Maintains his decision to take Zhong Mu as his Dao companion but tests her by allowing her to face challenges alone.
• Zhong Mu: Grows in maturity and resilience after surviving an attack and facing hardships in East Glory City.

Significant Themes

• The importance of tempering and growth in cultivation.
• The harsh realities and social hierarchy in the cultivation world.
• The power dynamics between cultivators and the role of fortune.

Character Interactions

• Ju Hua and Zhong Mu: Ju Hua secretly protects Zhong Mu but allows her to face challenges alone to temper her. Zhong Mu remains focused on her mission to aid Ju Hua.
• Zhong Mu and the Zifu Disciples: Zhong Mu faces a group of Zifu Disciples who attempt to rob her but is saved by Ju Hua's intervention.
• Zhong Mu and the cultivators in East Glory City: Zhong Mu struggles to earn Essence Liquid and faces discrimination as a low-level cultivator.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhong Mu, after ten years in East Glory City, decides to return to her husband, despite knowing he's mortal and she's a Zifu cultivator.
• Zhong Mu's friend, Bao, offers to help her join the East Glory Sect, which could help her husband's cultivation.
• Ju Hua, Zhong Mu's hidden protector, spars with the East Glory Sect's Celestial ancestor and gains his respect.

Character Developments

• Zhong Mu remains devoted to her husband, prioritizing his well-being despite the vast difference in their cultivation levels and lifespans.
• Bao shows her true colors, initially appearing friendly but later revealing her desire for personal gain by offering to help Zhong Mu join the East Glory Sect.
• Ju Hua demonstrates his immense power and humility, easily defeating the East Glory Sect's Celestial ancestor and gaining his respect.

Significant Themes

• Love and devotion: Zhong Mu's unwavering love for her husband, despite the challenges posed by their different cultivation levels and lifespans.
• Power dynamics: The vast difference in power between cultivators and mortals, and the struggles faced by those who love across these boundaries.
• Friendship and betrayal: Bao's initial friendship with Zhong Mu, later revealed to be motivated by self-interest.

Character Interactions

• Zhong Mu and Bao: Zhong Mu's naivety contrasts with Bao's cunning, leading to a complex dynamic between them.
• Ju Hua and the East Glory Celestial: Ju Hua's immense power and humility impress the East Glory Celestial, leading to a mutual respect between them.
• Zhong Mu and Ju Hua: Though not directly interacting in this chapter, Zhong Mu's safety and well-being remain Ju Hua's primary concern, as shown by his interventions over the years.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ju Hua arrives in East Glory City to look after Zhong Mu, revealing her status as his dao companion.
• East Glory Celestial is surprised by Zhong Mu's status and reveals that Bao Lian plans to sell Zhong Mu for profit.
• Ju Hua asks East Glory Celestial for assistance in dealing with the East Glory Sect disciples involved.
• Bao Lian contacts the East Glory Sect's Steward Niu, arranging to sell Zhong Mu for 200 taels of Essence Liquid.
• Ju Hua and East Glory Celestial observe the events and discuss Zhong Mu's trial and fate.

Character Developments

• Zhong Mu: Unaware of Bao Lian's true intentions, she agrees to meet at the Drunken Immortal Pavilion.
• Bao Lian: Reveals her greed and manipulative nature, selling Zhong Mu for personal gain.
• East Glory Celestial: Initially surprised by Zhong Mu's status, he later offers assistance to Ju Hua and expresses disapproval of the East Glory Sect's corruption.
• Ju Hua: Demonstrates his deduction skills and commitment to Zhong Mu's trial, respecting her autonomy in decision-making.

Significant Themes

• Greed and corruption within the cultivation world, as seen in Bao Lian and the East Glory Sect's actions.
• The value of personal growth and experience, as Zhong Mu faces a trial to overcome.
• The importance of trust and loyalty, as Ju Hua supports Zhong Mu without interfering in her trial.

Character Interactions

• Ju Hua and East Glory Celestial: They discuss the situation, with East Glory Celestial offering assistance and expressing admiration for Ju Hua's devotion to Zhong Mu.
• Bao Lian and Steward Niu: They conspire to sell Zhong Mu, unaware of being observed by Ju Hua and East Glory Celestial.
• Zhong Mu and Bao Lian: Zhong Mu remains unaware of Bao Lian's true intentions, agreeing to meet at the Drunken Immortal Pavilion.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhong Mu waits for three days for news from Bao Lian about the East Glory Sect.
• Bao Lian leads Zhong Mu to the Drunken Immortal Pavilion, where they meet a white-robed man (later revealed to be East Glory Sect's Young Master) and his steward, Niu.
• Zhong Mu is asked to spar with a woman in the arena, but the woman attacks with lethal intent.
• Zhong Mu subdues the woman, but she commits suicide by attacking Zhong Mu again, causing Zhong Mu to kill her in self-defense.
• The Young Master applauds Zhong Mu's strength and expresses satisfaction, but Zhong Mu feels unease.

Character Developments

• Zhong Mu: Shows composure and strength in the spar, but becomes suspicious and uneasy about the situation.
• Bao Lian: Remains loyal to Zhong Mu, going to great lengths to help her, but her true motives remain unclear.
• East Glory Sect's Young Master: Reveals his greed and manipulative nature, using Zhong Mu for his own purposes.
• Steward Niu: Remains loyal to the Young Master, acting as a silent accomplice to his schemes.

Significant Themes

• Trust and betrayal: Zhong Mu's trust in Bao Lian is tested, and she begins to question her sister's motives.
• Manipulation and deceit: The Young Master and Steward Niu manipulate Zhong Mu, using her desire to join the East Glory Sect to lure her into a trap.
• Greed: The Young Master's greed for power and strength is evident in his satisfaction with Zhong Mu's abilities.

Character Interactions

• Zhong Mu and Bao Lian: Their bond is strengthened as Bao Lian helps Zhong Mu, but Zhong Mu begins to question her sister's true intentions.
• Zhong Mu and the Young Master: Zhong Mu is initially unaware of the Young Master's true nature, but she grows uneasy around him as she senses his deceit.
• Zhong Mu and the woman in the arena: The woman's attack with lethal intent causes Zhong Mu to question the true purpose of the spar.