Chapter Summaries

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xie Xie attempts to sneak away but is caught by Gu Yue, who interrogates him about the evening gathering.
• He reveals that Lin An has booked the entire top floor of Cloudsky International Hotel for dinner with Ouyang Zixin, Mu Xi, Tang Wuling, and several senior students. Ouyang Zixin will sit in the seat of honor.
• Gu Yue, jealous and suspicious, tracks the gathering’s location and decides to confront the situation.
• She returns to the Spirit Pagoda and angrily accuses Leng Yaozhu of giving her bad relationship advice. Gu Yue had deliberately ignored Lin An and refused his affection, only to discover that he was now dining with Ouyang Zixin.
• Gu Yue’s jealousy causes her fears to spiral from ordinary socializing into imagined drunkenness, a hotel-room encounter, and even Lin An forming a harem.
• Gu Yue and Leng Yaozhu immediately put aside their argument and unite in their goal of catching what they believe is a potential romantic betrayal.
• Meanwhile, Shadow Brake has meticulously organized Lin An’s dinner, but she is visibly jealous and repeatedly warns him not to be deceived or “mess around.”
• Shadow Brake recognizes that Lin An claims the dinner is meant to help redirect Tang Wuling, but she still worries that he may actually be attracted to Tang Wuling’s unusual personality.
• At the hotel, Ouyang Zixin arrives dressed especially carefully and becomes overwhelmed by Lin An’s appearance. Tang Wuling becomes insecure when she sees Ouyang Zixin and realizes Ouyang has a history of rumors with Lin An.
• Lin An then messages Tang Wuling, instructing her to sit beside Ouyang Zixin, choose food for her, and accommodate her needs. His encouraging “You can do it” sticker makes Tang Wuling realize he is intentionally trying to set her up with Ouyang Zixin.

Character Developments

• Gu Yue: Her attempt to use emotional distance as a romantic tactic backfires, revealing how possessive and emotionally invested she is in Lin An. Her jealousy overwhelms her rationality.
• Xie Xie: Demonstrates his survival instinct by immediately betraying the dinner’s details when threatened by Gu Yue.
• Leng Yaozhu: Her confidence in her relationship theories is shaken when Gu Yue’s situation contradicts her advice. Nevertheless, she quickly joins Gu Yue’s jealous investigation.
• Shadow Brake: Her composed, efficient exterior hides growing romantic insecurity. She recognizes her own strengths but worries that Lin An prefers Tang Wuling’s eccentric personality.
• Ouyang Zixin: Her attraction to Lin An deepens. Despite her usual confidence and beauty, she becomes nervous and self-conscious around him.
• Tang Wuling: Her confidence collapses upon seeing Ouyang Zixin. She begins to suspect that Lin An is deliberately trying to pair her with Ouyang rather than pursuing her himself.
• Lin An: Presents the dinner as an effort to guide Tang Wuling back onto the proper path, but his matchmaking instructions suggest he is deliberately manipulating the social dynamic.

Significant Themes

• Jealousy and romantic insecurity: Several characters struggle to hide their possessiveness and fear of being replaced.
• Manipulation and unintended consequences: Gu Yue’s romantic strategy produces the opposite result, while Lin An’s matchmaking plan places Tang Wuling in an uncomfortable situation.
• Miscommunication and exaggeration: Ordinary socializing is repeatedly transformed into imagined betrayal as characters interpret events through jealousy.
• Love as competition: The characters compare themselves with rivals and attempt to influence who receives Lin An’s attention.
• Comedy through emotional overreaction: The chapter contrasts elaborate schemes and dramatic suspicions with the relatively innocent reality of a group dinner.

Character Interactions

• Gu Yue intimidates Xie Xie into revealing the dinner’s details.
• Gu Yue and Leng Yaozhu argue over failed relationship advice before becoming allies in investigating Lin An.
• Shadow Brake fusses over Lin An’s safety and warns him against romantic misbehavior, exposing her own feelings.
• Ouyang Zixin’s arrival causes Tang Wuling to become jealous and insecure.
• Lin An directly instructs Tang Wuling to care for Ouyang Zixin, effectively forcing her into a matchmaking role and leaving her convinced that he is setting her up.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Lin An hosts a lavish dinner attended by Ouyang Zixin, Tang Wuling, Mu Xi, Xie Xie, and several attractive older female students.
• Lin An deliberately sits by the floor-to-ceiling window rather than beside Ouyang Zixin. Xie Xie takes the seat beside him, joking that he will guard Lin An from women with improper intentions.
• Tang Wuling reluctantly sits beside Ouyang Zixin after Lin An silently orders her to behave. She is visibly hurt by his apparent effort to keep her away from him.
• The guests are stunned by the meal’s extravagant cost, including a rare Ten-Thousand-Year Soul Beast dish worth millions.
• While everyone eats, Lin An remains detached, staring at the cityscape instead of interacting with the women around him.
• Ouyang Zixin reminds Lin An of their past. He sincerely apologizes for mishandling her feelings, explaining that he only invited her to make amends.
• Ouyang reveals that rumors claim she and Lin An had dated, that he abandoned her, and even that she was pregnant with his child. A popular online novel has apparently dramatized the story.
• Lin An bluntly asks when they ever dated, shocking the table and causing Xie Xie and Mu Xi to laugh.
• Tang Wuling becomes increasingly distressed as she watches Lin An speak comfortably with Ouyang Zixin.

2. Character Developments

• Lin An: Remains emotionally detached and consistently polite, but his treatment of everyone alike has led Ouyang Zixin to misunderstand him in the past. He sincerely wants to resolve the hurt he caused. However, he also views Tang Wuling’s emotional confusion as evidence that the “worldline” may be correcting itself and actively hopes she will pursue another relationship.
• Ouyang Zixin: Appears composed and confident despite having once been deeply hurt by Lin An. She has accepted that his kindness was not uniquely directed at her, yet rumors about his supposed romantic entanglements have revived her hope that she might still have a chance.
• Tang Wuling: Feels rejected, insecure, and increasingly confused about her identity and relationship with Lin An. She resents Ouyang Zixin’s closeness to him and worries that Lin An sees her only as a brother, or perhaps as neither male nor female. His encouragement for her to interact with other women intensifies her emotional pain.
• Xie Xie: Acts protectively and possessively toward Lin An, humorously positioning himself as a guard against potential romantic rivals.
• Mu Xi: Functions as a social organizer and openly criticizes Lin An for ignoring Ouyang Zixin during the dinner.

3. Significant Themes

• Unrequited love and misunderstanding: Ouyang once mistook Lin An’s universal kindness for special affection, while Tang Wuling cannot determine what place she holds in his life.
• Rumors versus reality: Fabricated stories about Lin An and Ouyang—including the absurd pregnancy rumor—have become widely accepted despite having no basis in fact.
• Identity and belonging: Tang Wuling’s gender transition and uncertain role around Lin An leave her struggling to understand both herself and their relationship.
• Emotional detachment: Lin An’s calm, evenhanded kindness prevents him from recognizing how deeply his actions affect others.
• Jealousy and competition: The women at the table compare themselves with Ouyang, while Tang Wuling quietly becomes jealous and threatened by her.

4. Character Interactions

• Lin An repeatedly signals Tang Wuling to restrain herself, prompting her to sit beside Ouyang despite her reluctance.
• Xie Xie sits beside Lin An and jokingly promises to protect him from women pursuing him.
• Ouyang directly confronts Lin An about their past and the rumors surrounding them.
• Lin An apologizes but denies that they ever dated, turning the supposed tragic romance into an absurd misunderstanding.
• Tang Wuling silently observes their conversation, grows jealous, and misinterprets Lin An’s encouragement as proof that he wants to push her away.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ouyang Zixin notices Lin An’s concern for Tang Wuling and becomes jealous. Although Lin An arranged the gathering hoping Ouyang would help Tang Wuling adjust, Ouyang interprets the situation as another sign that Lin An cares more about Tang Wuling than her.
• Ouyang publicly addresses Tang Wuling and cruelly reminds everyone that Tang was formerly male and changed physically because of a bodily accident. She warns Tang not to develop “unrealistic fantasies” about Lin An, claiming their relationship would be unacceptable.
• Her remarks trigger laughter and gossip from the surrounding female students, leaving Tang humiliated, pale, and close to tears.
• Lin An realizes the plan to bring Ouyang and Tang closer has failed disastrously. Instead of acting like the innocent school belle he expected, Ouyang has revealed a sharp, spiteful side.
• Xie Xie becomes protective of Tang Wuling. Though he restrains himself from openly confronting Ouyang out of respect for Lin An’s intentions, he moves closer to Tang to support her.
• Tang insists that she and Lin An are only brothers and claims she will eventually return to normal, though she privately lacks confidence in that outcome.
• Ouyang notices Lin An’s disgust and fears losing his affection and even the ability to remain near him. She gives a superficial apology, drinks three glasses of wine, and excuses her behavior as jealousy.
• The dinner becomes awkward. Lin An withdraws emotionally and stares out the window rather than engaging with the others.
• Ouyang eventually asks to change seats and moves beside Tang Wuling. Xie Xie relocates to Tang’s other side and quietly encourages her to eat, offering her some comfort.

Character Developments

• Lin An: His original attempt to manipulate events and “correct” the world line gives way to genuine regret and protectiveness toward Tang. He becomes openly colder toward Ouyang and recognizes that his plan has harmed someone emotionally.
• Ouyang Zixin: Her supposedly pure and innocent image cracks. Jealousy exposes her possessive, vindictive side, though she quickly becomes frightened that her cruelty has destroyed Lin An’s opinion of her. Her apology is more strategic than sincere.
• Tang Wuling: She is deeply wounded by Ouyang’s public humiliation but tries to remain composed and reassure everyone that she has no romantic intentions toward Lin An. Her vulnerability and isolation become increasingly apparent.
• Xie Xie: His loyalty to Tang becomes clear. He tolerates teasing from friends but will not allow outsiders to insult her. His protective instincts emerge through quiet, deliberate actions rather than confrontation.

Significant Themes

• Jealousy and possessiveness: Ouyang’s feelings for Lin An turn into cruelty when she compares herself to Tang.
• Public judgment and stigma: Tang is treated as abnormal because of her altered body, showing how gossip and social prejudice can cause severe emotional harm.
• Appearance versus reality: Ouyang’s “pure school belle” persona hides resentment and malice, while Tang’s awkward exterior conceals genuine vulnerability.
• Consequences of manipulation: Lin An’s attempt to engineer relationships through the world line backfires, forcing him to confront the human cost of treating people like pieces in a larger plan.
• Loyalty and chosen bonds: Xie Xie’s quiet support demonstrates that friendship and shared hardship matter more than appearances or social approval.

Important Character Interactions

• Ouyang Zixin and Tang Wuling: Ouyang verbally attacks Tang under the guise of giving advice, humiliating her in front of the group.
• Lin An and Ouyang Zixin: Lin An’s attitude toward Ouyang cools sharply after hearing her remarks, causing her to panic.
• Lin An and Tang Wuling: Lin’s concern for Tang becomes obvious, even though he originally intended to use the gathering to influence the situation.
• Xie Xie and Tang Wuling: Xie protects Tang by sitting closer to her and later tells her to eat, providing silent emotional support.
• Ouyang Zixin and the group: Her comments encourage gossip and reveal how quickly the others are willing to mock Tang once given permission.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Tang Wuling is upset and refuses to eat after Lin An tries to distance himself from her. Xie Xie teases her, then encourages her to eat, successfully drawing her out of her emotional state.
• Ouyang Zixin sits beside Lin An, dressed more maturely and behaving with unusual confidence. She correctly realizes that Lin An has been trying to match her with Tang Wuling so that Tang Wuling will stop pursuing him.
• Ouyang offers to approach Tang Wuling and redirect her romantic attention toward herself. However, she asks Lin An not to reject her completely in return. She does not demand a relationship or title, only permission to remain close to him.
• Lin An is troubled by Ouyang’s willingness to lower her expectations and wonders whether her feelings are genuine or intensified by his Succubus Physique and the influence of fate.
• Ouyang prevents him from rejecting her immediately and promises to help him. Her proposal creates an absurd romantic loop: Lin An wants Ouyang to pursue Tang Wuling, Ouyang wants to pursue Lin An while approaching Tang Wuling, and Tang Wuling becomes distressed after seeing them grow closer.
• Tang Wuling watches Ouyang touch Lin An’s lips without hearing their conversation. Her jealousy and insecurity return, making her feel unnecessary and excluded.
• Outside the Cloudsky International Hotel, Gu Yue and her teacher Leng Yaozhu spy on the scene from the air. They had intended to break through a window and confront Lin An, but lose their nerve after seeing the complicated situation inside.
• The two women awkwardly debate what relationship they have with Lin An and realize they lack any formal status that would justify barging in. They ultimately decide to wait, despite Gu Yue’s frustration after already spending two hours outside.

Character Developments

• Lin An becomes increasingly overwhelmed by the tangled romantic situation. He also begins to feel genuine sympathy for Ouyang Zixin, recognizing that her devotion may be influenced by supernatural attraction rather than entirely free choice.
• Ouyang Zixin shifts from her former innocent image into a more mature, assertive, and manipulative “older-sister” persona. Despite this confidence, her willingness to accept almost any arrangement reveals how deeply and selflessly she is attached to Lin An.
• Tang Wuling remains emotionally vulnerable. Her suppressed inferiority complex resurfaces when she sees Ouyang and Lin An growing intimate, reinforcing her fear that she is unwanted.
• Gu Yue displays intense jealousy and possessiveness, calling Lin An her future husband, but lacks the official relationship status or courage to confront him directly.
• Leng Yaozhu proves more self-aware and cautious than Gu Yue. Although jealous herself, she recognizes how ridiculous it would be for a prominent Spirit Pagoda figure to publicly crash through a hotel window over a teenage romantic misunderstanding.

Significant Themes

• Jealousy and insecurity: Tang Wuling, Ouyang Zixin, Gu Yue, and Leng Yaozhu all struggle with romantic uncertainty and fear of being displaced.
• Love versus supernatural influence: Lin An questions whether people truly love him or whether his Succubus Physique and fate magnify their attraction, raising concerns about free will and emotional authenticity.
• Emotional self-sacrifice: Ouyang is willing to suppress her own wishes and accept an undefined relationship simply to remain near Lin An and help him.
• Romantic absurdity and inversion: Attempts to solve one love triangle only create a more complicated loop, parodying conventional jealousy and “catching a cheating lover” scenarios.
• Lack of relationship status: Several characters feel entitled to Lin An emotionally but cannot openly intervene because they are not officially his partners.

Character Interactions

• Xie Xie uses blunt teasing to help Tang Wuling recover enough to eat.
• Ouyang confronts Lin An about his matchmaking scheme and offers a conditional alliance.
• Lin An and Ouyang’s intimate conversation is witnessed by Tang Wuling, who misinterprets what she sees.
• Gu Yue and Leng Yaozhu observe the situation from outside and criticize each other for lacking the courage—or justification—to enter.
• The chapter ends with the two jealous observers waiting outside while the romantic confusion inside continues to escalate.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gu Yue secretly watches Lin An from outside the Cloudsky International Hotel, clinging to an air-conditioning unit more than ninety meters above the ground. She becomes increasingly jealous as Ouyang Zixin repeatedly moves close to Lin An during dinner.
• Leng Yaozhu hovers nearby, remaining calm while teasing Gu Yue for her reckless and undignified behavior. She reveals that she has used her spiritual power to monitor the entire floor and knows what is happening inside.
• Shadow Brake informs Lin An that Gu Yue is watching from outside. Lin An notices her and is shocked by how dangerously she has positioned herself, worrying about her safety despite trying to remain composed.
• The latter part of the dinner becomes tense. Ouyang Zixin deliberately stays close to Lin An, using flirtatious body language and subtle physical contact to attract his attention.
• Mu Xi notices that Tang Wuling has barely eaten after Ouyang Zixin’s earlier hurtful remarks. She offers to take Tang Wuling home and apologizes, but Ouyang Zixin interprets this as Mu Xi siding against her.
• After dinner, everyone exits the hotel and encounters Leng Yaozhu waiting beside an impressive car. Her beauty, authority, and intimidating presence immediately silence the students.
• Gu Yue begins to call out to Lin An as “Wife,” alarming Xie Xie and making the romantic situation even more dangerous.
• Ouyang Zixin, who had previously believed effort and her status as the campus belle might allow her to win Lin An, is overwhelmed by Leng Yaozhu’s presence. She realizes the enormous gap between herself and Lin An and questions whether she could ever be the “female lead” in his life.
• Leng Yaozhu calmly explains that she and Gu Yue came because they were worried about Lin An.

Character Developments

• Gu Yue: Her jealousy becomes extreme and irrational, leading her to risk her life just to observe Lin An. Despite her possessiveness, her actions also reveal how deeply she cares about him.
• Lin An: He remains outwardly controlled but is genuinely concerned for Gu Yue’s safety. He also begins to recognize the increasingly obvious tension surrounding Ouyang Zixin’s advances.
• Leng Yaozhu: She continues to act composed, confident, and dominant. Her calm handling of the situation contrasts sharply with Gu Yue’s emotional behavior and reinforces her powerful status.
• Ouyang Zixin: Her confidence collapses after seeing Leng Yaozhu. She recognizes that her beauty, popularity, and determination may not be enough to compete with someone of Leng Yaozhu’s stature.
• Mu Xi: She becomes uncomfortable with the conflict between Ouyang Zixin and Tang Wuling. Though she tries to comfort Tang Wuling, her decision risks alienating Ouyang Zixin.
• Tang Wuling: She is visibly hurt and withdrawn, barely eating and refusing help at first.
• Xie Xie: He understands the danger of Gu Yue revealing her relationship with Lin An and anticipates serious consequences.

Significant Themes

• Jealousy and possessiveness: Gu Yue’s reckless spying and Ouyang Zixin’s flirtation both stem from fear of losing Lin An.
• Perceived social and personal hierarchy: Ouyang Zixin realizes that status, confidence, and beauty are relative when confronted with Leng Yaozhu’s authority and presence.
• The gap between fantasy and reality: Ouyang Zixin’s belief that she could become Lin An’s romantic lead is shattered by the reality of his connections and the powerful women around him.
• Appearance versus presence: The chapter contrasts youthful beauty and careful presentation with the deeper authority and intimidating charisma that Leng Yaozhu possesses.
• Emotional conflict and divided loyalties: Mu Xi is caught between comforting Tang Wuling and remaining loyal to Ouyang Zixin, while Ouyang interprets even a small gesture as betrayal.
• Protectiveness beneath composure: Lin An and Leng Yaozhu both respond to Gu Yue’s recklessness with concern, even though Leng Yaozhu expresses hers through sarcasm and Lin An hides his behind calmness.

Important Character Interactions

• Gu Yue and Leng Yaozhu: Leng Yaozhu mocks Gu Yue’s jealousy and reckless spying, while Gu Yue accuses her of caring only about her physical relationship with Lin An.
• Gu Yue and Lin An: Gu Yue watches him from outside, while Lin An discovers her and worries about her dangerous position.
• Ouyang Zixin and Lin An: Ouyang repeatedly invades Lin An’s personal space and uses flirtatious gestures to attract him, though his reaction remains restrained.
• Mu Xi and Tang Wuling: Mu Xi apologizes and offers to accompany Tang Wuling home, attempting to repair the damage caused by the evening’s confrontation.
• Ouyang Zixin and Mu Xi: Ouyang silently reacts with hostility when Mu Xi chooses to comfort Tang Wuling, suggesting a growing rift between the two friends.
• Ouyang Zixin and Leng Yaozhu: Their unspoken comparison becomes the chapter’s emotional climax. Ouyang is forced to confront how far she stands below Leng Yaozhu in authority, confidence, and presence.
• Leng Yaozhu and Lin An: She arrives with Gu Yue under the pretext of concern and calmly tells Lin An they came because it was late, immediately establishing her control over the situation.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Gu Yue reveals that she has been waiting for Lin An since seven o’clock, secretly watching from a rooftop because she feared he would be angry if she approached him.
• Leng Yaozhu arrives with Gu Yue and takes Lin An to the Spirit Pagoda instead of returning him to the academy. Gu Yue immediately becomes affectionate and clings to him.
• Leng Yaozhu and Gu Yue had planned to confront Lin An for supposedly “cheating,” hoping he would feel guilty and compensate them with affection. However, Lin An remains calm, does not explain himself, and simply takes a shower before going to sleep.
• The two women realize that Lin An may genuinely believe he has done nothing wrong, since neither of them has an official romantic relationship with him.
• Leng Yaozhu’s anger fades when she sees how exhausted Lin An is. She suggests lying beside him and merely holding him, prompting Gu Yue to accuse her of wanting Lin An’s body.
• Before their argument can escalate, Leng Yaozhu receives an emergency alert: the Spirit Realm has suffered a catastrophic security breach. The underlying code and structural information of multiple prison zones have been leaked, allowing dangerous souls and Holy Spirit Cult entities to attack the exits.
• Shadow Brake prevents a mass escape by severing the Spirit Realm’s external connections, but the emergency shutdown causes widespread damage, including scrambled soul data, memory loss, disrupted consciousness, and souls becoming trapped between worlds.
• Leng Yaozhu is suspended pending investigation because she is ultimately responsible for the Spirit Pagoda’s security. Qian Gu Dongfeng offers her compensation and transfers two hundred million to her.
• Lin An reacts to the crisis with unusual nonchalance, focusing first on whether Leng Yaozhu will continue receiving pay during her suspension. He advises her to treat it as paid leave unless she is proven guilty, and to flee before taking him down with her if she is responsible.
• Gu Yue jokingly offers to take them back to Star Dou Forest, leading to another argument over whether her home is primitive or healthy.
• Lin An attempts to sleep, but Leng Yaozhu and Gu Yue remain beside his bed. He sarcastically calls them “perverts” and asks whether anyone could sleep with two people crouching nearby and staring at them.

2. Character Developments

• Lin An: Remains calm, emotionally detached, and practical throughout the confrontation and the Spirit Realm crisis. His refusal to feel guilty frustrates both women, while his blunt advice helps Leng Yaozhu regain perspective.
• Gu Yue: Displays a clingy, vulnerable side around Lin An, contrasting with her usual aloofness. She is jealous of Leng Yaozhu’s closeness to him and becomes possessive, even while admitting that she lacks an official relationship with Lin An.
• Leng Yaozhu: Initially intends to manipulate Lin An’s guilt, but her anger softens when she notices his exhaustion. She also faces a major personal crisis after being blamed for the Spirit Pagoda breach, though Lin An’s attitude helps her treat the suspension less dramatically.
• Qian Gu Dongfeng: Appears briefly as a seemingly supportive authority figure who compensates Leng Yaozhu, though the narration suggests the Qiangu Family may be involved in framing her.

3. Significant Themes

• Ambiguous romantic relationships: Gu Yue and Leng Yaozhu both act possessive toward Lin An despite having no officially defined relationship with him, creating jealousy and emotional frustration.
• Jealousy and competition: The women compete for Lin An’s attention, with their arguments mixing genuine affection, insecurity, and comedic hostility.
• Lin An’s emotional detachment: His calm response to both romantic accusations and a major supernatural disaster highlights his unusual composure and pragmatic worldview.
• Power, responsibility, and scapegoating: Leng Yaozhu is blamed for the Spirit Pagoda breach because of her position, raising the possibility that powerful enemies are manipulating events to shift responsibility onto her.
• Comedy amid crisis: Serious developments involving mass soul escapes and political intrigue are juxtaposed with domestic bickering and Lin An’s sarcastic remarks.

4. Character Interactions

• Gu Yue tries to gain Lin An’s sympathy by presenting herself as wronged, then openly clings to him.
• Leng Yaozhu and Gu Yue initially unite in an attempt to make Lin An feel guilty, but quickly turn on each other over who is more interested in him.
• Their teacher-student relationship becomes openly antagonistic and comedic, with insults, threats over Gu Yue’s allowance, and arguments about their respective lifestyles.
• Lin An cuts through their emotional schemes with blunt practicality, refusing to apologize or become flustered.
• Despite their rivalry, Leng Yaozhu and Gu Yue share concern for Lin An and consider staying beside him while he sleeps.
• The chapter ends with all three caught in an awkward domestic standoff: Lin An wants to sleep, while the two women refuse to leave him alone.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gu Yue refuses Lin An’s accusation that she is perverted and transforms into a fluffy, tiny silver dragon specifically designed to appeal to his preferences.
• She repeatedly says “Awoo” and tries to persuade Lin An to hug her, using cuteness as a deliberate form of seduction. Lin An recognizes the trap but struggles not to give in, especially because Gu Yue previously nearly strangled him.
• Leng Yaozhu observes Gu Yue’s shameless behavior and concludes that Gu Yue has abandoned her dignity in pursuit of Lin An.
• Lin An checks Leng Yaozhu’s companionship progress, which has risen to 87%. However, the final requirement—helping her release her attachment to Yun Ming—remains unresolved. Lin An decides to continue spending time with her while she is suspended from duty.
• The story then shifts to Ming Capital, where Yun Ming and Na’er arrive through a spatial passage. Yun Ming is stunned by how technologically advanced the city has become.
• Modern urban systems repeatedly embarrass Yun Ming: an automated trash can warns him, a patrol drone identifies him as a high-risk individual and restricts his abilities, and his outdated communicator is declared unsupported.
• Na’er teases Yun Ming for being old-fashioned and guides him through the city’s automated transportation system.
• Yun Ming’s concern over transportation costs leads to the revelation that he and Zhuo Shi recently lost hundreds of millions investing in technology stocks. Na’er accidentally reveals this secret, prompting Yun Ming to angrily blame Zhuo Shi for telling her.

Character Developments

• Gu Yue becomes increasingly bold and playful in pursuing Lin An, deliberately exploiting her dragon form and cuteness to overcome his resistance.
• Lin An remains cautious around Gu Yue but is clearly affected by her behavior. He also shows growing concern and responsibility toward Leng Yaozhu, recognizing that her emotional trauma cannot be solved easily.
• Leng Yaozhu feels reassured when she notices Lin An paying attention to her, interpreting his concern as evidence that he cares about her.
• Yun Ming is portrayed as powerful yet hilariously out of touch with modern life. His dignity is repeatedly undermined by automated technology, outdated equipment, and his failed investments.
• Na’er acts as Yun Ming’s guide to modern society, teasing him freely while demonstrating her own familiarity with advanced technology and city systems.
• Zhuo Shi, though absent, is characterized as financially reckless and untrustworthy for exposing the stock-trading secret he had promised to keep.

Significant Themes

• Cuteness and emotional manipulation: Gu Yue turns affection into a calculated strategy, blurring the line between sincere playfulness and deliberate seduction.
• Healing from the past: Leng Yaozhu’s unresolved attachment to Yun Ming establishes a deeper emotional conflict that requires more than simple companionship.
• Generational and technological change: Yun Ming’s discomfort in Ming Capital highlights the gap between his long life and the rapidly evolving Federation.
• Power versus helplessness: Despite being one of the continent’s strongest figures, Yun Ming is powerless against routine city systems and modern technology.
• Humor through loss of dignity: The chapter repeatedly places respected or powerful characters in embarrassing situations, creating comedy through contrasts between reputation and everyday incompetence.

Character Interactions

• Gu Yue directly challenges Lin An’s refusal to embrace her, while Lin An internally struggles between suspicion and affection.
• Leng Yaozhu silently witnesses their flirtation, judging Gu Yue while becoming encouraged by Lin An’s apparent concern for her.
• Na’er constantly mocks Yun Ming’s outdated habits, but she also assists him by navigating transportation and city regulations.
• Yun Ming tries to maintain his authority as Na’er’s teacher, yet automated warnings, his obsolete communicator, and the stock-loss revelation repeatedly strip away his composure.
• The chapter ends with Yun Ming confronting Na’er after she reveals Zhuo Shi’s secret investment losses.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Na’er overhears that her mistress may not know about Di Tian’s current situation and tries to contact her. Yun Ming stops her, so Na’er manipulates him into taking her to the zoo by pretending to cry and threatening to expose his and Zhuo Shi’s use of academy funds for stock trading.
• At the Universe Starlight Zoo, Na’er discovers that Di Tian’s enclosure is empty. A notice explains that his appearance has been suspended because he has been called to work for Universal Group.
• Na’er is shocked to learn that Di Tian is now considered both a zoo “star animal” and a security consultant. She becomes furious when she realizes he has blocked her messages, especially after refusing to give her ten million.
• Yun Ming, Na’er, and Di Tian eventually meet at Universal Group headquarters. Di Tian is working as a senior security consultant in the Dangerous Target Identification Department.
• Di Tian scans Yun Ming and classifies him as an extremely dangerous individual capable of destroying a city. He warns Yun Ming not to release his spiritual power, tear open space, or summon his Battle Armor, since the city’s defense systems could mistake him for an attacker.
• Yun Ming realizes that Ming Capital’s powerful security system, Rainbow Light Verdict, has been monitoring him since his arrival.
• Na’er rushes up to Di Tian and repeatedly slaps his noticeably enlarged belly, mocking him for getting fat. Di Tian explains internally that his comfortable zoo life—free food, lodging, medical care, massages, a high salary, and profit-sharing—is far better than enduring life in Star Dou Forest.
• Na’er angrily confronts Di Tian for blocking her and refusing to send her money. Yun Ming attempts to discipline her and orders her to apologize, leaving Na’er incredulous because she views Di Tian as a traitor to the Soul Beast race.

Character Developments

• Na’er shows her clever, manipulative, and mischievous side. She uses tears, threats, and emotional pressure to get her way, but her anger reflects her deep resentment toward Di Tian for abandoning or compromising the Soul Beasts.
• Yun Ming is portrayed as highly indulgent toward Na’er, treating her like a daughter despite recognizing her schemes. He remains powerful and dignified but is humorously unsettled by both Na’er’s blackmail and Di Tian’s treatment of him as a security threat.
• Di Tian has undergone a dramatic transformation. Once the supreme Beast God of Star Dou Forest, he now enjoys a comfortable corporate and zoo-based lifestyle. He appears cautious and pragmatic, accepting his new identity as an employee and “star animal” rather than returning to his former hardships.
• Yun Ming and Di Tian’s relationship shifts from that of ancient rival powerhouses to an amusingly bureaucratic interaction: Di Tian must warn Yun Ming to follow city security procedures, while Yun Ming is forced to tolerate being treated like a potential terrorist.
• Na’er and Di Tian maintain a hostile but familiar dynamic. Na’er openly insults and attacks him, while Di Tian avoids confrontation and tries to evade responsibility.

Significant Themes

• Comfort versus duty: Di Tian’s luxurious new life contrasts sharply with the harsh conditions of Star Dou Forest, raising the humorous question of whether any dragon would willingly return to suffering.
• Loss of status and identity: Di Tian’s fall from ruler of the Soul Beasts to zoo attraction and corporate employee is both comedic and symbolic.
• Power in a modern society: Even legendary figures must obey technological surveillance systems, workplace rules, and urban security protocols.
• Family-like indulgence and manipulation: Yun Ming’s affection for Na’er causes him to repeatedly give in to her schemes, emphasizing the tension between discipline and parental favoritism.
• Betrayal and resentment: Na’er regards Di Tian’s cooperation with humanity as a betrayal of the Soul Beast race, especially because he appears to be prospering while the Soul Beasts’ broader interests remain unresolved.

Character Interactions

• Na’er emotionally blackmails Yun Ming into visiting the zoo.
• The zoo staff casually explain Di Tian’s new employment, shocking Na’er.
• Di Tian and Yun Ming exchange awkwardly respectful but sarcastic remarks at headquarters, with Di Tian treating Yun Ming as a potential urban-level threat.
• Na’er physically and verbally mocks Di Tian’s weight and lifestyle.
• Yun Ming tries to protect Di Tian from Na’er’s rudeness while also attempting to make Na’er apologize.
• The chapter ends with Na’er refusing to accept Di Tian’s new position or excuse his refusal to give her money, intensifying the comedic conflict between them.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• After the Spirit Realm prison breach, the Federation suppresses public concern and blames the Holy Spirit Cult, since the attackers were remnants of the cult’s dead members.
• Public opinion initially mocks the incident, but attention shifts when it is revealed that Heavenly Phoenix Douluo Leng Yaozhu has been suspended for her role in the breach. Online users ridicule her alleged relationship with Lin An, calling her “love-brained.”
• Leng Yaozhu becomes furious over the insults, while her disciple Gu Yue laughs at her expense until Leng threatens to cut her allowance.
• Lin An notices a more serious announcement: the Spirit Realm has entered emergency maintenance and all access points are closed.
• Because the Spirit Realm supports hospitals, military resettlement, inheritance systems, Artificial Soul Spirits, and mental-health technology, its closure creates a major social crisis. Recently deceased souls begin dissipating unless their families can afford costly soul-storage devices.
• A viral hospital video humorously depicts an old man’s soul temporarily placed inside a cleaning drone, but the public soon realizes that many ordinary people are genuinely losing their chance to preserve their souls.
• The Abyss front faces an even greater emergency. Hundreds of soldiers die in battle, but their souls cannot be transferred into the military’s Spirit Realm settlement zone. Storage devices consume enormous amounts of energy, and some soldiers remain conscious while waiting.
• Public anger shifts away from the Holy Spirit Cult and toward Universal Group, with people accusing it of abandoning those who died defending the Federation.
• Yun Ming visits Universal headquarters on behalf of Shrek, the Federation, the War God Hall, and other factions to negotiate with Shen Qingyi. He asks when the Spirit Realm will reopen and warns that continued delays may cause soldiers’ souls to dissipate.
• Shen Qingyi argues that Universal alone created, equipped, maintained, and powered the Spirit Realm, while the Federation has provided no dedicated funding. She accuses the government and society of treating Universal as responsible for everyone’s afterlife while refusing to share the costs or accountability.

Character Developments

• Shen Qingyi is portrayed as cold, controlled, and deeply resentful of the Federation’s hypocrisy. Her refusal to immediately reopen the Spirit Realm reflects both practical concerns and anger at being exploited.
• Yun Ming acts as a reluctant mediator. Though sympathetic to the dead soldiers and aware of the political stakes, he has little authority to solve the underlying problem and is forced to defend institutions that have neglected Universal.
• Leng Yaozhu shows how personally she takes public criticism. Her anger over the “love-brained” accusations contrasts with her composure regarding her suspension and scapegoating.
• Gu Yue remains playful and irreverent, teasing Leng Yaozhu but quickly backing down when her allowance is threatened.
• Lin An serves as the observant viewpoint character, recognizing that the Spirit Realm’s closure is far more consequential than the public scandal surrounding the breach.

Significant Themes

• Public scapegoating and media manipulation: The Federation redirects blame toward the Holy Spirit Cult and later Universal rather than confronting its own responsibility.
• The social consequences of technological dependence: Society has become so reliant on the Spirit Realm that its shutdown disrupts medicine, warfare, inheritance, and the meaning of death itself.
• Class inequality: Wealthy people can preserve their souls in expensive containers, while ordinary people are left to disappear.
• Institutional hypocrisy and unequal responsibility: Universal bears the financial and technical burden of the Spirit Realm, while the Federation claims its benefits and criticizes Universal when the system fails.
• The value of the dead: The chapter emphasizes that soldiers who sacrificed themselves for the Federation deserve dignity and a final resting place, not bureaucratic neglect.

Character Interactions

• Leng Yaozhu and Gu Yue: Gu Yue laughs at the online insults directed at her teacher, prompting Leng to threaten her allowance. Their exchange highlights their familiar but unequal teacher-disciple relationship.
• Yun Ming and Shen Qingyi: Their tense negotiation forms the chapter’s central interaction. Yun Ming appeals to the soldiers’ sacrifice and the urgent humanitarian crisis, while Shen Qingyi counters with the facts of Universal’s unpaid labor and expenses.
• Shen Qingyi and the Federation: Though not present directly, her confrontation with Yun Ming functions as an indictment of the Federation’s treatment of Universal: it expects Universal to provide an essential public service without funding it, then blames the company when problems arise.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yun Ming asks Shen Qingyi to restore the Spirit Realm so the souls of fallen soldiers do not dissipate.
• Shen Qingyi criticizes the Federation, Shrek, and others for treating Universe’s privately developed Spirit Realm as a free public service. She agrees to reopen it, but insists that each organization pay for the souls and services under its responsibility.
• The Federation agrees to cover the immediate costs for soldiers killed on the front lines and promises to investigate the Spirit Realm shutdown and the deeper code leak. Shen Qingyi warns that Universe will pursue not only the Holy Spirit Cult but also the Federation officials who helped it obtain the Spirit Realm’s underlying architecture.
• Shadow Brake begins an emergency restart of the Spirit Realm, prioritizing military and hospital channels. As she operates it, her soul and authority rapidly recover, bringing her closer to godhood and reunion with the “young lord.”
• Shadow Brake erases the memories contained in the remnant soul within her. She regards its hatred and desire to destroy the world as meaningless emotions compared with her devotion to the young lord.
• Meanwhile, Na’er drags the transformed, chubby Di Tian away from Yun Ming and demands that he summon the other former Star Dou Great Forest powerhouses.
• Na’er discovers that Di Tian and the others are now working for humans and that Di Tian has become wealthy—and noticeably overweight. She reacts with disbelief and irritation at his enormous belly.

Character Developments

• Shen Qingyi/Shadow Brake: Shows her pragmatic, domineering attitude and refusal to accept exploitation. She remains willing to preserve the Spirit Realm, but only under fair responsibility and payment. Her restoration of the realm strengthens her soul and authority, suggesting her return to godhood is imminent. She also decisively rejects the remnant soul’s hatred and erases its memories.
• Yun Ming: Acts as a mediator between Universe and the Federation. He recognizes the legitimacy of Shen Qingyi’s complaints but remains focused on protecting the soldiers’ souls and stabilizing the Spirit Realm crisis.
• Na’er: Demonstrates an increasingly forceful and possessive personality. She believes strength determines authority and intends to reassert control over the Star Dou group.
• Di Tian: Though still nominally the Beast God, he has adapted to human society, taken employment, and accumulated wealth. His submissive, comedic behavior around Na’er contrasts sharply with his former majesty.

Significant Themes

• Responsibility versus entitlement: Organizations that benefited from the Spirit Realm now demand its restoration while expecting Universe to pay, exposing their sense of entitlement.
• The cost of technological dependence: Humanity has become so reliant on the Spirit Realm that even a short shutdown causes widespread panic, despite having survived without it for millennia.
• Power and ownership: Shen Qingyi insists that whoever controls or benefits from souls must bear the costs, while Na’er views strength as the true basis of authority.
• Identity and emotional rejection: Shadow Brake treats the remnant soul’s hatred as meaningless data rather than a defining part of herself, choosing loyalty to the young lord over revenge or destruction.
• Integration of former enemies: Di Tian and the other soul beasts are now participating in human society, creating humorous tensions between their former status and their current occupations.

Character Interactions

• Shen Qingyi and Yun Ming: Their negotiation combines practical cooperation with mutual frustration. Yun Ming seeks emergency assistance, while Shen Qingyi uses the discussion to condemn the Federation and Shrek’s dependence on Universe.
• Shen Qingyi and the Federation/Shrek: Though not directly present, their relationship is tense and adversarial. Shen Qingyi demands payment and accountability, particularly for the Spirit Realm code leak.
• Na’er and Di Tian: Na’er treats Di Tian as both subordinate and transportation, riding on his neck while interrogating him about his work and wealth. Di Tian is intimidated and embarrassed, especially when his large belly reveals how much he has eaten.
• Yun Ming and Di Tian: Yun Ming allows Di Tian to accompany Na’er, reasoning that his harmless appearance and role as Universe’s security consultant make him suitable to supervise her.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Na’er confronts Di Tian after noticing that he has become noticeably fatter. She slaps his stomach, kicks him, and mocks him as a “dead fat dragon.”
• Di Tian tries to end the confrontation because he has neglected his duty to protect Shen Qingyi, the Dragon Queen’s mother. He also wants Na’er to return to Shrek.
• Na’er becomes deeply upset when Di Tian tells her to leave. She accuses him and the other Ferocious Beasts of abandoning her after she was sent to Shrek.
• She points out the absurdity of their transformation: former enemies of humanity are now working in zoos, livestreaming, selling products, and earning salaries, bonuses, and revenue shares.
• Na’er tearfully reveals that her greatest grievance is not only their ideological betrayal, but also that she receives none of their income.
• Di Tian realizes that her anger is largely driven by feeling excluded from the financial benefits. He internally justifies controlling the group’s money as necessary for Soul Beast revival, operations, public relations, and support for Gu Yue.
• He summons the other Ferocious Beasts and tells them to bring money.
• Xiong Jun arrives while eating and casually calls Di Tian “Little Di.” Di Tian reasserts his authority by beating him and warning him to show proper respect.
• Xiong Jun submits outwardly because of Di Tian’s dragon pressure, but continues privately complaining that Di Tian is greedy, overpaid, and undeserving of his position.

Character Developments

• Na’er: Reveals a mixture of abandonment, resentment, wounded pride, and material frustration. Although she initially appears concerned about the Soul Beast cause, her emotional outburst shows that she also wants recognition, inclusion, and a share of the group’s wealth.
• Di Tian: Remains secretive about Gu Yue and the Dragon Queen’s plans, refusing to explain the true reason the Ferocious Beasts cooperate with humans. He is portrayed as responsible and pragmatic, but also controlling and defensive about the group’s finances. Despite his comical weight gain, he retains his old authority and intimidation.
• Xiong Jun: Remains rebellious, gluttonous, and disrespectful toward Di Tian. However, he still instinctively fears Di Tian’s power and backs down when confronted.
• Other Ferocious Beasts: Their involvement in zoos, livestreaming, and human society emphasizes how completely their former revolutionary image has changed.

Significant Themes

• Ideals versus practical survival: The Ferocious Beasts’ grand plans for Soul Beast revival have been replaced by mundane employment and commercial activity, suggesting that survival requires compromise.
• Secrecy and hidden agendas: Di Tian cannot reveal the true connection between the beasts’ human activities and Gu Yue’s plans, forcing him to appear hypocritical to Na’er.
• Money and resource control: The conflict humorously centers on who controls the group’s earnings, while also raising questions about trust, authority, and whether collective funds are being managed fairly.
• Power beneath comedy: Di Tian’s obesity, zoo work, and livestreaming make him ridiculous, but his confrontation with Xiong Jun proves that he remains the dominant Beast God.
• Abandonment and recognition: Na’er’s anger reflects her belief that the others discarded her after sending her to Shrek, leaving her excluded from both their cause and their prosperity.

Character Interactions

• Na’er physically and verbally attacks Di Tian, while he restrains her and attempts to calm her down.
• Na’er accuses Di Tian of betraying their cause and excluding her financially; Di Tian silently recognizes the legitimacy of her emotional grievance but remains unable to explain the truth.
• Di Tian summons the Ferocious Beasts to address the situation and obtain money.
• Xiong Jun’s casual disrespect triggers Di Tian’s authoritarian response. Di Tian beats and intimidates him, restoring the traditional hierarchy between them.
• Their quarrel combines comedy, lingering rivalry, and the clear fact that Xiong Jun still cannot challenge Di Tian directly.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiong Jun secretly photographs Di Tian bullying him and posts it online with a mocking caption. The post quickly attracts humorous comments from viewers, who joke about Di Tian’s weight and Xiong Jun’s inability to defeat him.
• Di Tian surveys the other Ferocious Beasts and becomes angry at how comfortable, well-fed, and integrated into human society they have become. He criticizes them for abandoning the brutality and “Soul Beast spirit” of the past while forgetting their supposed mission to revive the Soul Beast race and destroy humanity.
• Na’er interrupts Di Tian’s lecture by pointing out that he is actually the fattest one present. Di Tian immediately loses his authority and obediently joins the others.
• Di Tian then claims that the Soul Beast clan’s finances are in trouble and orders everyone to contribute money. Although Xiong Jun protests that Di Tian has already taken most of his salary, Na’er’s Silver Dragon aura intimidates him into cooperating.
• The collection turns into an almost comedic house raid. The Ferocious Beasts surrender cash, account funds, and even valuable materials. Na’er also threatens to use Scarlet King’s fur for a winter coat and considers plucking Bi Ji’s feathers.
• By the end, the once-wealthy Soul Beasts have been reduced to near poverty. Na’er then turns her attention to Di Tian, demanding that he contribute as well—either money or his valuable dragon scales. Di Tian is unable to resist her authority.

Character Developments

• Di Tian: Despite presenting himself as a stern leader devoted to the Soul Beast race, he is revealed as hypocritical, gluttonous, financially exploitative, and easily intimidated by Na’er. His submissive reaction to her demonstrates her superior status and influence.
• Na’er: She establishes herself as bold, domineering, and financially opportunistic. Her teasing of Di Tian and manipulation of the Ferocious Beasts show both her confidence and her authority as a Silver Dragon King-related figure.
• Xiong Jun: He remains rebellious and outspoken, openly criticizing Di Tian and resisting his demands. However, he is ultimately forced to surrender because of Na’er’s bloodline suppression.
• Scarlet King: He appears loyal and obedient but is frightened by the prospect of losing his fur. His reaction also hints that he recognizes Na’er’s familiar and powerful aura.
• Bi Ji and Zi Ji: They cooperate relatively willingly but are left with little money, emphasizing their responsible yet financially limited circumstances.
• Ten Thousand Demon King: His confusion about the existence of “Soul Beast spirit” highlights how far the group has drifted from its old ideals.

Significant Themes

• Hypocrisy and failed ideals: Di Tian condemns the others for abandoning their mission while ignoring his own indulgence and corruption.
• Power and hierarchy: Na’er’s Silver Dragon aura immediately overrides Di Tian’s authority and forces the other Ferocious Beasts into submission.
• Modernization and assimilation: The Soul Beasts now wear fashionable clothing, earn human salaries, seek online donations, and live comfortably, contrasting sharply with their former savage image.
• Comedy through role reversal: The supposedly fearsome leaders are reduced to squabbling, overweight, financially struggling figures, while Na’er acts as the true authority.
• Exploitation disguised as duty: The language of “reviving the Soul Beast race” is used to justify taking everyone’s money, blurring the line between legitimate leadership and personal greed.

Character Interactions

• Xiong Jun secretly mocks and exposes Di Tian online, while Di Tian remains unaware at first.
• Di Tian lectures the Ferocious Beasts, but Na’er humiliates him by pointing out his weight.
• Xiong Jun challenges Di Tian’s demand for money, only to be silenced by Na’er’s threat to eat bear paw.
• Scarlet King’s instinctive recognition of Na’er’s aura alarms Bi Ji, who warns him not to disrespect their Lord.
• Na’er intimidates and extracts resources from the entire group, including Scarlet King’s fur and potentially Bi Ji’s feathers.
• The chapter ends with Na’er confronting Di Tian directly, leaving him no choice but to surrender his money or scales.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lin An uses a specially modified cultivation room at Eastsea Academy to research a Martial Soul Fusion Skill with Tang Wuling. The room is equipped with advanced spiritual-energy arrays, soul metal, and numerous detectors, though Lin An’s own Seven-Colored Favor ability is even more efficient at gathering energy.
• Lin An and Tang Wuling sit facing each other with their palms pressed together. His seven-colored Soul Power merges smoothly with Tang Wuling’s Golden Dragon King bloodline, creating a stable resonance channel.
• Their cultivation is interrupted when their spiritual resonance causes Lin An to sense Tang Wuling’s inappropriate romantic fantasies about him. Embarrassed, Tang Wuling denies thinking about anything, while Lin An gives her an Iceheart Pill and tells her to focus.
• Inside Tang Wuling’s consciousness, the Little Golden Dragon encourages her attraction and enthusiastically supports the idea of merging with the Dragon Queen’s power, further complicating her concentration.
• Just as the connection begins stabilizing again, Lin An and Tang Wuling sense someone watching them. Gu Yue is sitting nearby, glaring at their joined hands with barely concealed jealousy.
• Gu Yue’s presence disrupts the resonance, causing the attempted Martial Soul Fusion to fail once more. Although the cultivation method clearly benefits both Lin An and Tang Wuling, Lin An increasingly feels uncomfortable and resentful about the process.
• Gu Yue finally confronts Tang Wuling emotionally, suggesting that Lin An is “cheating” on her and replacing her by practicing fusion with someone else. She dramatically cries and asks whether Lin An plans to abandon her.

Character Developments

• Lin An: Remains committed to perfecting the Martial Soul Fusion Skill but becomes increasingly frustrated by the emotional and romantic complications surrounding the process. He tries to maintain a rational, scientific attitude, though he is bewildered by both Tang Wuling’s thoughts and Gu Yue’s reaction.
• Tang Wuling: Demonstrates excellent compatibility with Lin An’s Soul Power and gains clear cultivation benefits. However, her attraction to Lin An interferes with her concentration, and she quickly shifts blame to Gu Yue when the fusion fails.
• Gu Yue: Reveals intense jealousy and possessiveness toward Lin An. Although she initially agrees to supervise the cultivation, she becomes increasingly distressed by Tang Wuling’s obvious interest in him. Rather than openly fighting, she uses emotional manipulation and tears to express her fear of being replaced.
• Little Golden Dragon: Acts as a mischievous and lustful influence within Tang Wuling’s consciousness, encouraging her attraction to Lin An and enthusiastically supporting the possibility of a fusion with Gu Yue’s dragon-related power.

Significant Themes

• Cultivation versus personal desire: The fusion experiment is technically successful in theory, but romantic distractions prevent the characters from achieving a complete result.
• Jealousy and possessiveness: Gu Yue’s reaction transforms a scientific cultivation session into a relationship conflict.
• Bloodline and identity: Tang Wuling’s connection to Gu Yue’s former or divided dragon identity makes the situation especially uncomfortable and emotionally complicated.
• Comedy through contrast: Lin An treats the process as a technical experiment, while Tang Wuling and Gu Yue interpret it through attraction, rivalry, and romantic insecurity.
• Emotional interference: The chapter shows that spiritual resonance does not merely combine Soul Power; it also exposes thoughts and feelings, making intimacy difficult to separate from cultivation.

Character Interactions

• Lin An and Tang Wuling establish a strong Soul Power connection, but her romantic thoughts embarrass both of them and interrupt their progress.
• The Little Golden Dragon pressures Tang Wuling internally, encouraging her desire and making concentration harder.
• Gu Yue observes the pair and silently radiates jealousy, causing the fusion attempt to collapse.
• Tang Wuling blames Gu Yue for the failure, while Gu Yue counters with a tearful accusation that Lin An is abandoning her for Tang Wuling.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gu Yue accuses Lin An of “cheating” with Tang Wuling, despite having no formal relationship with either of them. Her jealousy becomes genuine grief as she imagines the two sharing Soul Power and growing close.
• Lin An comforts Gu Yue by inviting her into his arms. She immediately embraces him, while Tang Wuling insists that he and Lin An are merely “ordinary male best friends.”
• Lin An enthusiastically adopts the phrase “male best friends,” believing it proves Tang Wuling is gradually accepting his identity as a man. He privately hopes their relationship will eventually become that of brothers.
• Gu Yue, however, views the supposed friendship with despair, believing that a male dragon and a female dragon cannot maintain a purely platonic bond—especially because she suspects Tang Wuling is attracted to Lin An.
• Di Tian repeatedly calls Gu Yue with an emergency. When she finally answers, she discovers that he has been stripped of many of his scales and transformed from an intimidating black Beast God into a round, bald, yellow dragon.
• Di Tian blames Gu Yue’s other half for humiliating him and complains that both versions of her seem obsessed with taking his scales. Gu Yue secretly screenshots his appearance, considering the image potentially valuable for the Soul Beast cause.
• Di Tian explains that his humiliating appearance has actually increased his popularity at the zoo, where children now see him as a cute “baby dragon.” Despite his shame, he must continue working because of his contract and the enormous cancellation penalty.
• The real emergency is revealed: Gu Yue’s other half, Na’er, is preparing to travel to East Sea.
• Gu Yue panics, worrying that Na’er may discover the Dragon Queen—Gu Yue’s wife—and become interested in her. She fears Na’er could abandon Tang Wuling and join the competition for the Dragon Queen’s affection.
• Di Tian admits he could not stop Na’er because she is Gu Yue’s other half and had already overpowered him, stripping his scales.

Character Developments

• Gu Yue: Her jealousy toward Tang Wuling and Lin An reveals strong possessiveness and insecurity regarding her relationships. She remains emotionally attached to Lin An, but becomes even more alarmed at the possibility of Na’er interfering with her marriage and family dynamics. Her calculating side also appears when she secretly saves Di Tian’s embarrassing image for possible profit.
• Lin An: He continues treating Tang Wuling as a male friend and believes his efforts to correct Tang Wuling’s identity are working. His reaction to the term “male best friends” shows both relief and naïve optimism.
• Tang Wuling: He openly denies any romantic intentions toward Lin An, insisting that their bond is platonic. His statement unintentionally intensifies Gu Yue’s despair because she does not believe such a friendship can remain innocent.
• Di Tian: He is humiliated, emotionally fragile, and reduced from a fearsome Beast God to a cute zoo attraction. Despite his complaints, he remains loyal and continues fulfilling his duties. His inability to control Na’er emphasizes her overwhelming power and authority.
• Na’er: Though she does not appear directly, her imminent arrival creates the chapter’s major threat. Her relationship to Gu Yue and her possible attraction to the Dragon Queen become the focus of Gu Yue’s anxiety.

Significant Themes

• Jealousy and possessiveness: Gu Yue’s emotional reaction exposes her fear of losing Lin An or the Dragon Queen to another person.
• Confusion over identity and relationships: The chapter repeatedly plays with the distinctions between men and women, dragons and humans, friendship and romance, and the multiple identities represented by Gu Yue and Na’er.
• Comedic humiliation: Di Tian’s transformation from a majestic Beast God into a plump, bald zoo mascot provides comic relief and contrasts with his former dignity.
• Power and helplessness: Even a powerful figure like Di Tian is powerless against his superiors and must endure humiliation for practical reasons.
• Family and romantic rivalry: The possibility that Na’er may compete with Gu Yue for the Dragon Queen’s affection introduces a new source of interpersonal conflict.

Character Interactions

• Gu Yue and Lin An: Gu Yue clings to Lin An after becoming jealous, while Lin An comforts her without fully understanding the implications of her distress.
• Gu Yue and Tang Wuling: Tang Wuling tries to reassure her that he and Lin An are only friends, but Gu Yue distrusts the claim and sees hidden romantic potential.
• Gu Yue and Di Tian: Their communication shifts from emergency concern to comedic mockery. Gu Yue comforts Di Tian while secretly exploiting his embarrassing appearance for a screenshot.
• Gu Yue and Na’er: Although they do not interact directly, Gu Yue’s fear of Na’er’s arrival dominates the ending and suggests an impending confrontation over the Dragon Queen and Tang Wuling.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• After cultivating, Lin An notices Tang Wuling staring at him with obvious dependence and anticipation. Alarmed by her increasingly feminine appearance and lovestruck behavior, he tries to distance himself from her.
• When Tang Wuling attempts to follow him, Lin An stops her by pressing a hand to her forehead and bluntly orders her to stay away. She becomes visibly dejected but continues watching him from the corner of the classroom.
• Lin An checks a message from his mother, Shen Qingyi, who informs him that Atlas Douluo Yun Ming will soon visit East Sea.
• Yun Ming’s visit has two purposes:
  • To investigate the Spirit Realm access leak and the Holy Spirit Cult’s infiltration and attack.
  • To bring along a young girl whom Shen Qingyi wants Lin An to meet.
• Shen Qingyi warns Lin An not to become too close to Leng Yaozhu, suspecting that the powerful, centuries-old woman may have ulterior motives involving Lin An and Universal Group.
• She also explains her reservations about Gu Yue. Although she acknowledges Gu Yue’s strength, talent, and genuine affection for Lin An, Shen Qingyi remains uncomfortable with the idea of her son marrying a Soul Beast.
• Shen Qingyi sends Lin An a photograph of the girl Yun Ming is bringing: a young, silver-haired, purple-eyed girl who is exceptionally beautiful. She encourages Lin An to spend time with her, suggesting that the meeting may help improve relations between Universal Group and Shrek.
• The political background is emphasized: with the Abyss War ongoing, foreign enemies threatening the continent, and the Holy Spirit Cult operating covertly, cooperation between major powers has become increasingly important.
• Just as Lin An examines the girl’s photo, Tang Wuling—unable to contain her curiosity—begins sneaking toward him to see what he is looking at.

Character Developments

• Lin An: Becomes increasingly wary of Tang Wuling’s attachment and feminine transformation. He insists that he is heterosexual and tries to maintain emotional distance. He also shows skepticism toward the proposed blind date, viewing the girl as attractive but too young.
• Tang Wuling: Her feelings for Lin An continue to intensify. She interprets his rejection as his refusal to “face reality,” becomes hurt and dejected, but remains unable to stop watching and approaching him.
• Shen Qingyi: Reveals herself as highly protective and suspicious of anyone approaching her son. Her attitude toward potential partners is selective: she is wary of powerful older women, uncertain about Gu Yue because she is a Soul Beast, but open to a human girl of suitable age.
• Gu Yue: Though absent from the scene, her relationship with Lin An is further defined. Shen Qingyi recognizes that Gu Yue sincerely cares for him but still struggles to accept her as a possible daughter-in-law.
• Yun Ming and the silver-haired girl: Their impending arrival introduces a new political and romantic possibility, likely connected to efforts to repair relations between Shrek and Universal Group.

Significant Themes

• Romantic confusion and gender transformation: Tang Wuling’s changing body and increasingly romantic behavior create awkwardness and anxiety for Lin An.
• Parental protectiveness and suspicion: Shen Qingyi treats Lin An as both her son and the key heir to Universal Group, assuming that many people may seek to exploit or manipulate him.
• Political alliances and marriage arrangements: The proposed meeting reflects how personal relationships may be used to strengthen cooperation between powerful factions.
• Human–Soul Beast tensions: Shen Qingyi’s hesitation toward Gu Yue highlights lingering prejudice and the difficulty of bridging the divide between humans and Soul Beasts.
• Power and inheritance: Universal Group’s succession structure makes Lin An a major target, while the existence of Shadow Brake discourages direct attacks against him.

Character Interactions

• Lin An firmly rejects Tang Wuling’s attempts to approach him, while Tang Wuling responds with wounded affection rather than anger.
• Shen Qingyi communicates with Lin An through a series of messages, lecturing him about Leng Yaozhu, discussing Gu Yue, and recommending the silver-haired girl.
• The chapter ends with Tang Wuling secretly moving closer to inspect Lin An’s communicator, setting up a likely confrontation over the photograph and the proposed blind date.

Chapter Summary

• Tang Wuling overhears Lin An discussing a girl being brought to East Sea by Yun Ming and becomes suspicious that Shrek and Universal Group may be arranging a marriage alliance. She secretly approaches Lin An’s communicator to see the girl’s photo.
• Upon seeing the image, Tang Wuling immediately recognizes the girl as Na’er, her long-lost younger sister. She is overwhelmed with emotion, recalling how long she has searched for Na’er and how many crises—including the Golden Dragon King bloodline and the Holy Spirit Cult—have distracted her from that goal.
• Lin An reveals that Na’er is likely coming to East Sea with Yun Ming, who is investigating matters related to the Spirit Realm. Tang Wuling is overjoyed at the prospect of finally meeting her sister in person.
• Lin An, however, begins viewing Na’er’s return as an opportunity to redirect Tang Wuling’s romantic attachment away from him. He reasons that Tang Wuling and Na’er share a deep childhood bond, while Tang Wuling and Gu Yue would likely clash violently. He privately hopes Na’er can restore Tang Wuling to the “proper” emotional path and free him from her affection.
• Tang Wuling’s happiness fades when she notices how much her body and appearance have changed. With golden hair, blue eyes, and increasingly feminine features caused by the Golden Dragon King bloodline, she fears Na’er may not recognize her—or may reject her for no longer looking like the brother she remembers.
• Lin An comforts her by claiming that her physical condition can eventually be reversed, but he also tells her to remain mentally firm and stop behaving so femininely. His concern is partly sincere, but he is also increasingly alarmed that Tang Wuling’s transformation will become irreversible.

Character Developments and Interactions

• Tang Wuling: Reveals the depth of her attachment to Na’er and her unresolved longing for family. Her excitement quickly turns into insecurity over her altered body and identity. Her emotional dependence on Lin An remains evident, as even a small gesture of comfort reassures her.
• Lin An: Recognizes Na’er as a possible solution to Tang Wuling’s attachment to him. He takes on a falsely mature and supportive attitude while internally scheming to separate himself from her romantic feelings. He also becomes increasingly worried about the extent of her transformation.
• Tang Wuling and Na’er: Their reunion has not yet occurred, but Na’er’s imminent arrival becomes the central emotional event anticipated by Tang Wuling.
• Lin An and Tang Wuling: Their interaction balances genuine concern, teasing, and Lin An’s desire to escape Tang Wuling’s affection. His attempt to encourage her to act “more masculine” highlights the tension between her past identity and current physical changes.

Significant Themes

• Family reunion and emotional memory: Na’er’s return revives Tang Wuling’s strongest memories and hopes.
• Identity and bodily transformation: Tang Wuling fears that physical changes have separated her from the person Na’er remembers.
• Romantic confusion and emotional redirection: Lin An interprets the sibling bond as a possible way to resolve Tang Wuling’s feelings for him.
• Appearance versus inner self: The chapter questions whether familial recognition and love depend on outward form or enduring emotional bonds.
• Humor amid emotional conflict: Lin An’s exaggerated matchmaking calculations and fear of Tang Wuling’s transformation contrast with her sincere distress, creating both comedy and tension.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lin An encourages Tang Wuling to spend more time with her newly reunited younger sister, Na’er, since they have been separated for years.
• He gives Tang Wuling money to buy Na’er clothes and gifts, and even arranges for her to take time off from Teacher Wu’s lessons.
• Lin An asks Shadow Brake to create a guide on how to become closer to girls. The guide includes dating advice, shopping, movies, gifts, and eventually inappropriate adult suggestions.
• Tang Wuling is confused and embarrassed by the guide, reminding Lin An that Na’er is her younger sister and that their relationship is purely familial.
• Lin An, knowing the conventions of romance stories, assumes Tang Wuling and Na’er may eventually become a romantic couple because they are unrelated childhood companions who were separated and later reunited.
• He repeatedly pushes Tang Wuling to spend time with Na’er, believing he is encouraging a classic romantic development. Tang Wuling instead suspects that Lin An is once again trying to set her up with someone.
• Tang Wuling notices that Na’er resembles Gu Yue, suggesting a possible connection, but dismisses the idea because of the stark differences in their personalities.
• Lin An finally speaks seriously to Tang Wuling, reminding her that she is a man and that she once wanted to become strong enough to protect her parents and Na’er.
• He urges her not to let temporary impulses or her changing body make her forget her original identity and goals.

Character Developments

• Lin An: Shows strong concern for Tang Wuling’s emotional life and family relationships, though his attempts to help are misguided and comically shaped by romance-story clichés. Beneath the teasing, he demonstrates that he has investigated and remembers Tang Wuling’s past ambitions.
• Tang Wuling: Becomes increasingly aware that Lin An may be trying to arrange a romantic relationship for her. She also confronts the tension between her current feminine appearance and the male identity and protective ideals she once held.
• Na’er: Does not appear directly, but her arrival becomes the center of the chapter. She is portrayed as cute, vulnerable, and important to Tang Wuling.
• Shadow Brake: Provides Lin An with an excessively detailed relationship guide, contributing to the chapter’s comedic misunderstanding.

Significant Themes

• Identity and self-perception: Tang Wuling has grown accustomed to her changed body and the way others perceive her, but Lin An’s reminder forces her to reconsider who she wants to be.
• Family and responsibility: Lin An emphasizes that Tang Wuling should reconnect with and protect Na’er after their long separation.
• Romantic tropes and misunderstanding: The chapter humorously parodies childhood-friend and reunion romance clichés, contrasting Lin An’s assumptions with Tang Wuling’s actual feelings.
• Care expressed through teasing: Lin An’s absurd matchmaking efforts conceal genuine concern for Tang Wuling’s happiness, family, and personal direction.
• Impulse versus purpose: Lin An warns Tang Wuling not to let temporary desires or physical changes obscure her long-standing goals.

Character Interactions

• Lin An takes on an almost parental role while instructing Tang Wuling how to treat Na’er, giving her money, advice, and practical plans.
• Tang Wuling repeatedly challenges Lin An’s assumptions, insisting that her bond with Na’er is sibling-like and non-romantic.
• Lin An interprets their shared history as evidence of an inevitable romance, while Tang Wuling gradually realizes he is attempting to matchmake her again.
• The chapter ends with a serious exchange in which Lin An reminds Tang Wuling of her promise to protect her family and encourages her to remain true to herself.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Tang Wuling is emotionally shaken after seeing a photo of Na’er, revealing how deeply she still longs for her younger sister.
• Lin An confronts her, urging her to remember her responsibilities toward her parents, Na’er, cultivation, forging, and becoming stronger rather than being consumed by romantic or instinctive desires.
• His words cause Tang Wuling to question what she truly wants and begin regaining her sense of duty.
• Tang San supports Lin An’s reasoning from within Tang Wuling’s consciousness. He argues that she must “reclaim her root” and resist the Golden Dragon King’s lingering instincts if she wants to protect her family.
• Lin An concludes that Tang Wuling may no longer need to be sterilized, but then casually suggests sterilizing her temporarily and cloning or restoring her reproductive organs later. This immediately terrifies Tang Wuling and undermines her renewed resolve.
• Gu Yue has been listening at the classroom door. After hearing the entire conversation, she becomes disgusted by what she interprets as Tang Wuling’s possible romantic interest in Na’er.
• Gu Yue realizes that Na’er is effectively another aspect of herself, since Na’er originated from the Silver Dragon King’s divided personality. This creates the bizarre possibility that Tang Wuling, originally a rival for Lin An’s affection, could end up pursuing Gu Yue indirectly through Na’er.
• Gu Yue is horrified by the thought that, if she and Na’er reunite, Na’er’s feelings and memories toward Tang Wuling could become part of her own personality.

Character Developments

• Tang Wuling: Begins to regain her sense of responsibility and reconnect with memories of family and personal goals. However, she remains conflicted between genuine affection for Lin An, instinctive impulses, and her desire to protect Na’er. Her fear of sterilization quickly becomes a new source of panic.
• Lin An: Demonstrates a manipulative but well-intentioned approach to “correcting” Tang Wuling. He believes appealing to her family responsibilities is more effective than moral lectures and is pleased when she appears to recover her resolve. His casual attitude toward sterilization highlights his extreme and unsettling methods.
• Tang San: Moves toward accepting Tang Wuling’s transformed state while still attempting to guide her back toward her former identity and values. He supports Lin An’s intervention because it may restore Tang Wuling’s sense of responsibility.
• Gu Yue: Her opinion of Tang Wuling changes sharply. While she previously respected Tang Wuling’s strength and courage despite their rivalry, she now views her as morally disgusting because of her apparent feelings toward Na’er. Gu Yue also becomes deeply anxious about the consequences of Na’er’s eventual reintegration with her.
• Na’er: Does not appear directly, but her impending arrival and emotional importance drive the chapter’s conflict. She is portrayed as Tang Wuling’s beloved younger sister and as another manifestation of Gu Yue’s own identity.

Significant Themes

• Identity and transformation: Tang Wuling struggles to reconcile her former self, her altered body, and the instincts associated with the Golden Dragon King.
• Responsibility versus desire: The chapter contrasts familial duty and personal ambition with romantic obsession and physical instinct.
• The instability of divided identities: Na’er and Gu Yue’s relationship raises questions about whether separate personalities remain distinct when they eventually merge.
• Misunderstanding and absurdity: Lin An and Tang San believe they are restoring Tang Wuling’s moral foundation, while their comments unintentionally make her situation more embarrassing and frightening.
• Possessiveness and romantic rivalry: Gu Yue’s disgust is mixed with jealousy and anxiety because Na’er is both her rival’s target and effectively another part of herself.

Character Interactions

• Lin An and Tang Wuling: Lin An emotionally pressures Tang Wuling to prioritize family and cultivation. His apparent success is immediately disrupted when he mentions sterilization, causing her to panic.
• Tang San and Tang Wuling: Tang San advises her internally, urging her to resist instinct and reclaim her original identity. His attempt to frame the issue around Na’er’s future happiness embarrasses Tang Wuling.
• Lin An and Tang San: Their views align, as both believe Tang Wuling’s family ties can help restore her former mindset.
• Gu Yue and Tang Wuling: Although they do not directly speak in the chapter, Gu Yue’s private judgment of Tang Wuling becomes much harsher after overhearing the conversation.
• Gu Yue and Na’er: The chapter emphasizes their unusual connection: Na’er is effectively Gu Yue’s divided counterpart, making Tang Wuling’s possible attraction to Na’er feel to Gu Yue like an indirect threat to her own identity and romantic boundaries.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• At Eastsea City Station, Lin An—wearing an elaborate platinum robe, golden hair, red contact lenses, and a mask—is mistaken for a beautiful woman by a young man asking for his contact information.
• Before Lin An can clarify, Tang Wuling coldly claims that “she” already has a boyfriend, leaving Lin An confused about both his supposed gender and relationship status.
• Tang Wuling’s possessiveness intensifies when she notices people admiring Lin An. Her Golden Dragon King aura emerges, making her resemble a dragon guarding its food and frightening the flirtatious young man away.
• Gu Yue watches the interaction while struggling to control her own attraction to Lin An. She remembers Lin An’s warning to pretend they are not close when Na’er arrives, since he fears Na’er may misunderstand their relationship.
• Tang Wuling grabs Lin An’s hand and drags him to a nearby grilled-fish restaurant while Gu Yue remains behind, visibly jealous but forcing herself to honor their agreement.
• Xie Xie attempts to joke about the group’s lack of femininity compared with Lin An, but accidentally insults all three of them. He immediately backs down when they turn hostile toward him.
• At the restaurant, the smell of grilled fish reminds Lin An of the first time Tang Wuling and the others left him alone at the station for two hours while they ate. He reprimands Tang Wuling for being unreliable, and she becomes deeply guilty as she remembers how vulnerable and physically weak he had been then.

Character Developments

• Lin An: Remains bewildered by how often others mistake him for a woman, despite his efforts to appear intimidating. He also reveals lingering resentment over being abandoned at the station in the past.
• Tang Wuling: Displays openly possessive and protective behavior toward Lin An. Her jealousy quickly turns threatening, but she also shows genuine remorse when reminded of how dangerously vulnerable he once was.
• Gu Yue: Becomes increasingly attracted to Lin An’s appearance and struggles with jealousy toward Tang Wuling. She consciously restrains herself to avoid ruining the plan before Na’er arrives.
• Xie Xie: Demonstrates his usual survival-oriented humor, but misjudges the situation and immediately retreats after provoking everyone.

Significant Themes

• Possessiveness and romantic rivalry: Tang Wuling and Gu Yue both compete for Lin An’s attention, though in very different ways.
• Identity and misunderstanding: Lin An’s appearance causes repeated confusion about his gender and relationship status.
• Restraint versus instinct: Gu Yue tries to suppress her jealousy and affection, while Tang Wuling freely acts on hers.
• Guilt and past neglect: The grilled-fish restaurant triggers memories of Lin An’s earlier abandonment, prompting Tang Wuling to confront her past irresponsibility.
• Humor within tense relationships: Much of the chapter’s conflict is presented comedically through misunderstandings, jealousy, and Xie Xie’s ill-timed remarks.

Character Interactions

• Tang Wuling rejects the young man’s advances and publicly labels Lin An as her boyfriend, creating an awkward misunderstanding.
• Gu Yue silently observes Tang Wuling’s intimacy with Lin An and becomes increasingly jealous.
• Tang Wuling physically leads Lin An away by the hand, while Gu Yue struggles not to interfere.
• Xie Xie insults Lin An, Gu Yue, and Tang Wuling simultaneously, then quickly apologizes.
• Lin An confronts Tang Wuling about her previous abandonment of him, shifting the mood from playful jealousy to guilt and concern.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Xie Xie reveals that Gu Yue had been too shy to approach Lin An when they first met, despite being especially worried when Lin An was left without anyone to pick her up.
• Gu Yue remembers being overwhelmed by Lin An’s beauty and fragile appearance, which triggered strong protective feelings and made her too nervous to speak.
• Tang Wuling carefully cleans a chair for Lin An before she sits, showing unexpected gentleness. Lin An teasingly calls her “gentle,” causing Tang Wuling to become flustered and distracted.
• Xie Xie steals the seat intended for Tang Wuling and jokingly claims that he and Lin An share only “father-son affection,” though nobody believes him.
• Lin An speculates that, without her arrival, Tang Wuling and Gu Yue might have become a couple as in the original story. Both women react with disgust and insist they would never like each other.
• Gu Yue accidentally calls Lin An “Dragon Queen,” briefly exposing their familiarity before pretending nothing happened.
• Tang Wuling insults Gu Yue’s former disguise and appearance, touching a sensitive point. Gu Yue becomes furious and prepares to fight.
• Xie Xie remarks that Gu Yue and Tang Wuling resemble a married couple, prompting both women to chase him around the restaurant.
• The restaurant owner interrupts the chaos by shouting at them, allowing the grilled fish to be served. Xie Xie returns disheveled and with red marks on his face.

2. Character Developments

• Gu Yue: Her initial shyness around Lin An is exposed, revealing how deeply Lin An’s appearance and vulnerability affected her. Her protective instincts and romantic or emotional attachment become increasingly apparent, especially when she blushes while looking at Lin An. She also remains fiercely antagonistic toward Tang Wuling.
• Lin An: She observes the group’s dynamics with amusement and detachment, though she is uncomfortable with excessive attention. She worries that her presence has altered the original storyline and may have disrupted expected relationships.
• Tang Wuling: Her instinctive care for Lin An becomes obvious through her cleaning the chair for her. She is easily flustered by Lin An’s praise and reacts aggressively whenever Gu Yue is mentioned as a possible romantic match.
• Xie Xie: He acts as the group’s provocateur, exposing embarrassing secrets and deliberately stirring conflict. His jokes reveal the others’ closeness, even though they repeatedly deny it.

3. Significant Themes

• Hidden affection and embarrassment: Gu Yue’s inability to approach Lin An and Tang Wuling’s reaction to being called gentle reveal feelings that the characters struggle to acknowledge.
• Jealousy and possessiveness: Both Gu Yue and Tang Wuling react strongly to the possibility of the other becoming close to Lin An or to each other.
• Changed destiny: Lin An reflects on how her arrival has altered the original story, replacing an expected romance between Gu Yue and Tang Wuling with hostility and rivalry.
• Masks and identity: Gu Yue’s former disguise represents her attempt to hide her true nature in human society; Tang Wuling’s insult exposes the tension between her ordinary appearance and her real identity.
• Comedic conflict and found-family dynamics: The characters’ constant bickering, teasing, and physical chaos demonstrate their familiarity and create a lively, affectionate group atmosphere beneath the hostility.

4. Character Interactions

• Lin An and Gu Yue: Their interaction is marked by Gu Yue’s concealed admiration, protectiveness, and embarrassment. Lin An notices Gu Yue’s reactions but does not press her.
• Lin An and Tang Wuling: Tang Wuling treats Lin An with unusual care, while Lin An responds with teasing that unintentionally makes Tang Wuling flustered.
• Gu Yue and Tang Wuling: They maintain an intense rivalry, immediately rejecting the idea of romance and trading personal insults. Their hostility also suggests a strong emotional investment in each other.
• Xie Xie and the group: Xie Xie functions as the instigator, revealing secrets and making provocative observations. His “married couple” comment triggers the chapter’s main comedic chase.
• Lin An and the group: Lin An remains the relatively calm observer, distancing herself from the fighting while recognizing that she has become central to the group’s emotional dynamics.