Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Su Chen and Xiao Wu engage in a physical altercation on a waterbed, using martial arts techniques and sexual innuendo.
• Their intense battle causes the waterbed to groan and Ah Yin, a plant spirit, to witness the scene in shock.
• Ah Yin's worldview is shattered by the couple's wild behavior, contrasting it with her past experiences with her husband, Tang Hao.
• Zhuqing, in the next room, is disturbed by the noise and tries to mediate, but gives up due to the intensity of the commotion.
• The battle continues until the early morning, with Xiao Wu eventually submitting to Su Chen.

Character Developments

• Su Chen: Demonstrates exceptional stamina and endurance during the battle, surprising Ah Yin and solidifying his dominance over Xiao Wu.
• Xiao Wu: Shows her competitive spirit and determination, but eventually succumbs to Su Chen's prowess, learning to submit.
• Ah Yin: Experiences a shift in her perspective on human intimacy, comparing her past experiences with Tang Hao to Su Chen and Xiao Wu's encounter.

Significant Themes

• Power Dynamics: The battle between Su Chen and Xiao Wu explores the dynamics of power and submission, with Su Chen ultimately asserting his dominance.
• Sexual Awakening: The chapter delves into the awakening of sexual desires and the exploration of intimacy, contrasting the characters' experiences with societal norms and expectations.
• Plant Perspective: Ah Yin's viewpoint offers a unique perspective on human behavior, highlighting the contrast between the plant and human worlds.

Character Interactions

• Su Chen and Xiao Wu: Their intense physical interaction leads to a power struggle, with Su Chen ultimately asserting his dominance and Xiao Wu learning to submit.
• Ah Yin and Tang Hao (flashback): Ah Yin's memories of her past relationship with Tang Hao contrast with Su Chen and Xiao Wu's encounter, highlighting the differences in their intimacy.
• Zhuqing and the Couple: Zhuqing's attempt to intervene in the couple's battle is thwarted by the intensity of the commotion, highlighting the impact of their actions on others.

Chapter Summary: “Deja Vu!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Dai Mubai is hospitalized after being brutally defeated by a young girl. Shao Xin diagnoses him with thirty-six broken bones and estimates that he must abstain from fighting for a month.
• Flender and Zhao Wuji react angrily and begin investigating who attacked Dai Mubai. However, Flender makes it clear that Shrek will only demand an explanation if the opponent lacks a powerful background.
• Flender worries about the academy’s financial condition, especially the cost of Dai Mubai’s treatment. He looks forward to the upcoming enrollment period, hoping new tuition fees and talented students will help save Shrek Academy from bankruptcy.
• Zhu Zhuqing suffers from severe sleep deprivation after hearing Su Chen and Xiao Wu noisily playing Fight the Landlord throughout the night. She misunderstands their cries and comments, imagining something much more scandalous.
• Su Chen and Xiao Wu continue playing the card game obsessively over the next several days. The loser must perform squats or stretching exercises, and Xiao Wu becomes increasingly frustrated by her repeated losses.
• Ah Yin, who watched the game through Su Chen’s livestream, angrily scolds him for playing such “shameless” games while keeping her nearby. Despite her irritation, her thoughts remain focused on Tang San, the child she deeply wants to see.
• When Shrek Academy finally opens, Su Chen, Xiao Wu, and Zhu Zhuqing leave the hotel. Su Chen brings out his gaudy pink tricycle and drives them toward registration while blasting an eccentric, confusing song through its horn.

Character Developments

• Dai Mubai: His defeat damages both his body and pride. His humiliation and anger are emphasized by his dramatic reaction to the injuries.
• Flender: His concern for Dai Mubai is mixed with financial anxiety. He is shown as pragmatic and opportunistic, prioritizing the academy’s survival and carefully judging whether Shrek can afford to confront Dai Mubai’s attacker.
• Zhao Wuji: He is eager to defend Shrek’s reputation but understands Flender’s cautious approach toward powerful opponents.
• Su Chen: He remains shameless, playful, and deliberately provocative. He enjoys tormenting Xiao Wu with the card game and is oblivious to the suggestive misunderstandings he creates.
• Xiao Wu: Her competitive nature becomes prominent. Although she repeatedly loses, she refuses to give up and eventually becomes physically exhausted and embarrassed by Su Chen’s teasing.
• Zhu Zhuqing: She becomes increasingly uncomfortable around Su Chen and Xiao Wu because of the noises from their room. Her embarrassment causes her to act nervously around Su Chen, though she still joins them on the tricycle.
• Ah Yin: She continues acting as a critical, exasperated observer of Su Chen’s behavior. Beneath her anger, however, her longing to meet Tang San remains her strongest emotional motivation.

Significant Themes

• Comedy through misunderstanding: Zhu Zhuqing and Ah Yin misinterpret the card-game punishments and dialogue as suggestive behavior, creating much of the chapter’s humor.
• Pride and humiliation: Dai Mubai’s injuries represent not only physical defeat but also a severe blow to his status and self-image.
• Pragmatism versus honor: Flender’s willingness to ignore an attack if the enemy is too powerful highlights Shrek’s financially desperate and morally flexible nature.
• Escapism and childish competition: Su Chen and Xiao Wu become absorbed in a trivial game, using it as entertainment while their surroundings grow increasingly chaotic.
• Family and unresolved longing: Ah Yin’s resentment toward Tang Hao contrasts with her enduring desire to reunite with Tang San.

Character Interactions

• Flender directs Zhao Wuji and Shao Xin while balancing concern for Dai Mubai with the academy’s financial needs.
• Su Chen teases Xiao Wu about losing at cards, while Xiao Wu angrily refuses to play again.
• Zhu Zhuqing remains embarrassed by the sounds from next door and behaves awkwardly whenever she sees Su Chen.
• Ah Yin scolds Su Chen mentally, but he dismisses her accusations and places her back in his storage tool.
• Su Chen, Xiao Wu, and Zhu Zhuqing travel together to Shrek Academy, with Su Chen driving and Xiao Wu enthusiastically enjoying the journey.

Chapter Summary: “Soul Elder, with Three Rings”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Su Chen, Xiao Wu, and Zhu Zhuqing travel from Suotuo City toward Shrek Academy in Su Chen’s uncomfortable, music-playing Sanbengzi. The bumpy ride causes Xiao Wu to accidentally crash into Zhu Zhuqing, embarrassing them both.
• They arrive at Shrek Academy, which appears to be a run-down village rather than a prestigious school. Xiao Wu and Zhu Zhuqing immediately doubt its legitimacy.
• At the entrance, examiner Li Yusong rejects an applicant for being over the age limit. When the boy’s father demands a refund, Li Yusong refuses and intimidates the crowd by displaying six Soul Rings, revealing himself as a Soul Emperor.
• Disgusted by the academy’s use of force to enforce its no-refund policy, Su Chen decides to challenge the situation rather than tolerate it.
• Li Yusong offers to refund the registration fee if someone can defeat a designated opponent. He summons Dai Mubai, who displays three Soul Rings and challenges anyone dissatisfied with the academy.
• Xiao Wu recognizes Dai Mubai as the arrogant man who previously harassed Zhu Zhuqing and mocks him as a “kidney-deficient sick cat.”
• Dai Mubai recognizes the trio as the people who beat him at the hotel and immediately becomes terrified, despite trying to maintain an intimidating appearance.
• Xiao Wu volunteers to fight him, eager to punish him again. Li Yusong assumes Dai Mubai will easily win and tells him not to kill her, while Dai Mubai internally panics because he knows Xiao Wu is far stronger than he is.

Character Developments

• Su Chen: Shows a strong sense of justice and refuses to overlook Shrek’s coercive treatment of ordinary applicants. He takes the initiative to confront Li Yusong and defend the fairness of the situation.
• Xiao Wu: Remains bold, mischievous, and outspoken. She is openly contemptuous of Shrek’s appearance and policies, and she eagerly seeks revenge against Dai Mubai for his earlier behavior toward Zhu Zhuqing.
• Zhu Zhuqing: Continues to be reserved and easily embarrassed, particularly after the accidental physical contact with Xiao Wu. Her dislike of Shrek deepens as she sees its resemblance to the oppressive social environment she has experienced.
• Dai Mubai: Attempts to project arrogance and authority by showing off his status as a three-ringed Soul Elder. However, his confidence collapses when he recognizes Su Chen’s group, revealing that his earlier arrogance masks fear and trauma from their previous beating.
• Li Yusong: Is established as powerful but authoritarian. He relies on intimidation rather than fairness and takes satisfaction in demonstrating his superiority over the applicants.

Significant Themes

• Appearance versus reality: Shrek looks like a poor, fraudulent academy, yet its staff and students possess genuine strength. Conversely, Dai Mubai appears confident and intimidating but is secretly terrified of Xiao Wu.
• Power and abuse of authority: Li Yusong uses his six Soul Rings to suppress complaints and justify an unfair no-refund policy, raising questions about whether strength is being used in place of justice.
• Justice and resistance: Su Chen’s refusal to accept Shrek’s coercion reflects the chapter’s conflict between arbitrary authority and moral accountability.
• Humor and humiliation: Physical comedy, exaggerated descriptions, and Xiao Wu’s insults undermine the characters’ supposed dignity—especially Dai Mubai’s carefully constructed image.
• Loyalty and protection: Xiao Wu’s willingness to challenge Dai Mubai stems from her anger over his mistreatment of Zhu Zhuqing, reinforcing the bond between the two girls.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Wu and Zhu Zhuqing share an awkward, comedic moment when Xiao Wu falls into Zhu Zhuqing’s arms during the ride.
• Su Chen teases and admonishes both girls while maintaining his role as their leader.
• Xiao Wu and Zhu Zhuqing jointly criticize Shrek Academy’s poor appearance and questionable policies.
• Li Yusong confronts an applicant’s father and uses his strength to silence the crowd.
• Su Chen challenges Li Yusong’s authority, while Li Yusong responds by setting up a duel.
• Xiao Wu openly provokes Dai Mubai by reviving the nickname “sick cat,” turning their earlier conflict into a public confrontation.
• Dai Mubai’s external arrogance clashes sharply with his internal fear of Su Chen, Xiao Wu, and Zhu Zhuqing, setting up the chapter’s impending fight.

Chapter Summary: “Everyone, Hear Me Out”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Yusong expects Dai Mubai to intimidate the applicants and demonstrate Shrek Academy’s strength.
• Dai Mubai recognizes Su Chen, Xiao Wu, and Zhu Zhuqing as the trio who previously defeated him. Instead of fighting, he retreats behind Li Yusong, exposing his fear and humiliating himself in front of the crowd.
• Xiao Wu taunts Dai Mubai and offers to fight him again, while Zhu Zhuqing silently judges his cowardice.
• Realizing that the three newcomers may be powerful and well-connected, Li Yusong avoids confrontation. He excuses Dai Mubai from the fight and declares that Shrek will admit defeat.
• Li Yusong refunds the registration fees of the applicants who failed to meet the academy’s requirements. The parents are grateful to Su Chen and begin leaving.
• Li Yusong repeats Shrek’s age and Soul Power requirements, causing many more parents to withdraw.
• Su Chen approaches the registration table and jokingly describes himself and his companions as “abstract talents” rather than ordinary “monsters.”
• Before the parents leave, Su Chen loudly claims he is defending Shrek Academy. However, his sarcastic explanation of the academy’s “unique rules,” high fees, intimidation tactics, and poor service convinces the parents even more strongly that Shrek is a scam academy.
• The departing parents vow to warn others against Shrek, damaging the academy’s already fragile reputation.
• Li Yusong realizes Su Chen has made the situation much worse, while Su Chen and Xiao Wu insist that he was merely helping.

Character Developments

• Dai Mubai: His cowardice is revealed publicly. Despite his intimidating reputation and Soul Elder strength, he instinctively hides behind Li Yusong when faced with Xiao Wu, reinforcing Zhu Zhuqing’s belief that he has not changed since fleeing the Star Luo Empire.
• Zhu Zhuqing: Her remaining respect or emotional attachment to Dai Mubai disappears. His behavior confirms her view that he is a coward who acts arrogant only when he feels safe.
• Xiao Wu: Remains bold, aggressive, and playful, openly taunting Dai Mubai and supporting Su Chen’s mischief.
• Su Chen: Demonstrates confidence, sharp wit, and mischievous intelligence. He protects the applicants by forcing Shrek to refund their money, then sarcastically undermines the academy while pretending to defend it.
• Li Yusong: Shows practical judgment by backing down instead of provoking unknown geniuses, but becomes increasingly frustrated and anxious as Su Chen ruins Shrek’s reputation.
• The parents: Initially intimidated by Shrek, they become grateful to Su Chen after receiving refunds and leave convinced that the academy is dishonest.

Significant Themes

• Appearance versus reality: Shrek tries to project an image of strength and exclusivity, but Dai Mubai’s fear and the academy’s poor practices expose its weaknesses.
• Cowardice and character: Zhu Zhuqing judges Dai Mubai not by his strength but by his willingness to hide when threatened.
• Power and intimidation: The chapter criticizes Shrek’s use of superior strength and Soul Emperor pressure against ordinary applicants.
• Satire and reputation: Su Chen’s fake defense demonstrates how easily public opinion can be shaped. His words technically sound supportive but function as a devastating critique.
• Justice and accountability: The refunding of registration fees restores some fairness to the applicants, even as it creates a larger crisis for Shrek.

Important Character Interactions

• Dai Mubai and Li Yusong: Dai Mubai relies on Li Yusong for protection, embarrassing both himself and the academy.
• Xiao Wu and Dai Mubai: Xiao Wu taunts him and challenges his courage, emphasizing the power imbalance created by their previous victory.
• Zhu Zhuqing and Dai Mubai: Zhu Zhuqing observes his behavior with disgust, concluding that he remains fundamentally cowardly.
• Su Chen and Li Yusong: Su Chen manipulates the situation while pretending to cooperate, leaving Li Yusong unable to openly accuse him.
• Su Chen and the parents: Su Chen earns their gratitude by helping them recover their money, then unintentionally—or deliberately—turns their gratitude into condemnation of Shrek Academy.
• Xiao Wu and Su Chen: Xiao Wu enthusiastically supports Su Chen’s sarcasm, reinforcing their playful alliance against the academy.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Su Chen, Xiao Wu, and Zhu Zhuqing arrive at Shrek Academy to register. Su Chen has Xiao Wu pay the thirty Gold Soul Coins, which she resents because she considers the academy shabby and unworthy of the fee.
• Examiner Li Yusong checks their ages and asks them to display their Martial Souls and Soul Rings, emphasizing that Shrek only accepts extraordinary “monsters.”
• Su Chen and Xiao Wu pretend that their Soul Ring configurations are poor and suggest receiving a refund. Li Yusong sees through the act and orders them to demonstrate their abilities.
• Xiao Wu reveals three Soul Rings—yellow, purple, and purple—showing that she already possesses a thousand-year second ring.
• Zhu Zhuqing displays the normal configuration of two yellow rings, identifying herself as a Hell Spirit Cat soul master.
• Su Chen produces three rings without even releasing his Martial Soul: yellow, purple, and an unprecedented black ten-thousand-year third ring. Li Yusong is overwhelmed and immediately decides that the group should be exempt from further testing.
• Dai Mubai recognizes Zhu Zhuqing as his abandoned fiancée from the Star Luo Empire. Seeing her alongside Su Chen, and remembering their previous encounters, he mistakenly concludes that she and Su Chen have become romantically involved.
• Dai Mubai becomes consumed by jealousy and humiliation, but he cannot retaliate because he knows he is far weaker than the trio.
• Li Yusong eagerly escorts Su Chen, Xiao Wu, and Zhu Zhuqing into the academy, determined to retain them despite Shrek’s poor facilities.
• On the way, they encounter Oscar selling his summoned sausages. After Oscar recites his embarrassing activation phrase, “I Have a Big Sausage!”, Xiao Wu kicks him and Zhu Zhuqing calls him a pervert. Su Chen gives Oscar a single Copper Soul Coin as a joking “reward” for the kick before leaving.

Character Developments

• Su Chen: Continues to display a mischievous, theatrical personality, deliberately baiting Li Yusong before revealing his astonishing ten-thousand-year third Soul Ring. His strength and confidence establish him as the most extraordinary member of the group.
• Xiao Wu: Shows her powerful Soul Ring configuration and her impulsive, outspoken nature. She remains protective of her dignity and reacts violently to Oscar’s crude presentation.
• Zhu Zhuqing: Reveals her identity and Martial Soul while maintaining her cool, reserved demeanor. Her subtle amusement at Su Chen and Xiao Wu’s performance suggests she is becoming more comfortable with them.
• Dai Mubai: Experiences a major emotional collapse after realizing Zhu Zhuqing has found him. His guilt, jealousy, and wounded pride turn into irrational rage, though his inability to defeat the trio forces him to remain passive.
• Li Yusong: Changes from an irritated examiner into an enthusiastic admirer after witnessing the group’s abilities. He immediately treats Su Chen and the others as invaluable recruits.
• Oscar: Is introduced as a comic and somewhat shameless sausage vendor. His pride in his Martial Soul conflicts with the girls’ disgust, leaving him confused and offended after being kicked.

Significant Themes

• Extraordinary talent and breaking limits: Su Chen’s black ten-thousand-year third Soul Ring directly challenges accepted Soul Master theory and presents him as a near-impossible prodigy.
• Pride, humiliation, and jealousy: Dai Mubai’s reaction reflects the consequences of his past abandonment and misconduct. His wounded pride is intensified by his inability to confront Su Chen.
• Appearance versus reality: The group pretends to have poor Soul Ring configurations before revealing overwhelming power, while Oscar’s ordinary-looking sausages conceal a legitimate support ability.
• Comedy through embarrassment: The chapter relies heavily on exaggerated misunderstandings, over-the-top reactions, and Oscar’s deliberately suggestive summoning phrase.
• Recruitment and institutional desperation: Shrek’s shabby condition contrasts with its ambition to gather exceptional students, explaining Li Yusong’s eagerness to secure the trio.

Important Character Interactions

• Su Chen and Xiao Wu coordinate their fake hesitation to tease Li Yusong before revealing their true strength.
• Li Yusong reacts with disbelief to Xiao Wu’s rings and near-reverence to Su Chen’s ten-thousand-year ring, immediately placing them above ordinary applicants.
• Dai Mubai silently recognizes Zhu Zhuqing and interprets her closeness to Su Chen as proof that she has replaced him, intensifying his anger.
• Xiao Wu and Zhu Zhuqing jointly reject Oscar’s sausage demonstration, with Xiao Wu attacking him and Zhu Zhuqing verbally condemning him.
• Su Chen turns Oscar’s humiliation into another joke by paying him one Copper Soul Coin for the kick, reinforcing his playful and provocative personality.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Yusong leads Su Chen, Xiao Wu, Zhu Zhuqing, and Ning Rongrong to the final round of Shrek Academy's entrance assessment.
• They skip the earlier rounds due to their high Soul Power levels (above 25).
• In the final round, they must endure against Vice Dean Zhao Wuji, a level 76 Power Attack System Soul Saint with the Vajra Bear Martial Soul, for the duration of one incense stick.

Character Developments

• Su Chen, Xiao Wu, and Zhu Zhuqing demonstrate their exceptional Soul Power levels, surpassing 30.
• Ning Rongrong, a member of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect, shows her Soul Power level is 26.
• Zhao Wuji, the Vice Dean, is revealed to be the Immovable Bright King, known for his ruthlessness and strength.

Significant Themes

• The importance of Soul Power level in the Soul Master world.
• The prestige and power of Shrek Academy's faculty, represented by Zhao Wuji.
• The strategic planning and teamwork required for the final assessment.

Character Interactions

• Li Yusong and Zhao Wuji discuss the special circumstances surrounding Su Chen's assessment.
• Xiao Wu expresses doubt about Su Chen's ability to last for one incense stick, showing her faith in his capabilities.
• Ning Rongrong attempts to introduce her support abilities and discuss a strategy but is interrupted by Xiao Wu's comment.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Su Chen, Xiao Wu, Zhu Zhuqing, and Ning Rongrong exchange information about their Martial Souls and Soul Power before beginning Shrek Academy’s entrance assessment.
• Ning Rongrong is shocked by Su Chen and Xiao Wu’s astonishing levels: both are only twelve yet have reached Soul Elder ranks. She is even more stunned by Xiao Wu and Zhu Zhuqing’s eagerness to challenge Zhao Wuji, a level-76 Soul Saint.
• Dai Mubai asks Zhao Wuji to punish Su Chen, whom he hates for previously breaking many of his bones. Zhao Wuji agrees, though he has secretly been warned to avoid seriously injuring Su Chen because Su Chen is considered extremely important to Shrek’s future.
• The battle begins. Ning Rongrong supports the team by increasing Xiao Wu and Zhu Zhuqing’s strength and speed, while Su Chen uses a flying Soul Tool to protect her from Zhao Wuji’s initial attack.
• Xiao Wu and Zhu Zhuqing’s attacks have little effect on Zhao Wuji until he activates his Vajra Bear Martial Soul and prepares to strike Xiao Wu.
• Su Chen activates his bizarre first Soul Skill, 100% Barehanded Blade Catch, which forces Zhao Wuji’s body to collapse into a kneeling, sliding position whenever he attempts to attack.
• While Zhao Wuji is helpless, Xiao Wu repeatedly smashes the back of his head with a solid wooden folding chair, while Zhu Zhuqing tears at his back with her claws.
• Zhao Wuji activates his third Soul Skill, Gravity Enhancement, slowing the girls down, but Su Chen’s ability continues to force him into humiliating knee-slides. Xiao Wu and Zhu Zhuqing exploit this perfectly with coordinated attacks.
• By the end of the assessment, Zhao Wuji has been beaten, bruised, and psychologically humiliated. He gives the group a passing result simply to end the ordeal.
• Li Yusong celebrates, realizing that Su Chen’s strange abilities and extraordinary Soul Rings make him an unparalleled recruit for Shrek Academy.

Character Developments

• Su Chen demonstrates that his greatest strength is not merely raw power but absurd battlefield control. He directs the fight from above with calm confidence, treating a powerful Soul Saint as though he were a training dummy.
• Xiao Wu reveals her bold, aggressive personality and enjoys testing herself against stronger opponents. She quickly turns Zhao Wuji’s helplessness into an opportunity for comic but brutal punishment.
• Zhu Zhuqing proves disciplined and ruthless in combat. Her attacks become especially effective when combined with Xiao Wu’s movements, showing her talent for teamwork.
• Ning Rongrong progresses from disbelief and fear to admiration. She realizes that Su Chen is an extraordinary genius and begins considering how to recruit him for the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect.
• Zhao Wuji suffers a severe blow to his pride. Despite his overwhelming cultivation and physical strength, Su Chen’s ability reduces him to an uncontrollable “punching bag.”
• Dai Mubai becomes too frightened to seek revenge after witnessing Zhao Wuji’s defeat. He retreats and accepts that confronting Su Chen would be foolish.
• Li Yusong becomes extremely excited about Shrek’s prospects, believing the academy has discovered a once-in-a-generation monster.

Significant Themes

• Strength versus technique: Zhao Wuji possesses vastly superior cultivation, but Su Chen’s unconventional skill completely neutralizes his advantages.
• The value of teamwork: Ning Rongrong’s support, Su Chen’s control, and Xiao Wu and Zhu Zhuqing’s coordinated attacks allow the younger team to defeat an opponent far beyond their level.
• Humiliation of authority: The respected “Immovable Bright King” is reduced to kneeling and sliding helplessly, creating a comedic reversal of power.
• Unorthodox genius: Su Chen’s strange Soul Rings, flying Soul Tool, and absurd abilities defy conventional Soul Master theory.
• Loyalty and recruitment: Ning Rongrong’s growing admiration for Su Chen suggests future competition between Shrek Academy and the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect for his allegiance.
• Comedy through absurdity: The battle combines serious martial conflict with exaggerated physical humor, particularly Zhao Wuji’s involuntary kneeling and Xiao Wu’s folding-chair assault.

Character Interactions

• Ning Rongrong is repeatedly shocked by Su Chen and Xiao Wu’s abnormal strength, while Su Chen casually reminds her to perform her support duties.
• Su Chen rescues Ning Rongrong from Zhao Wuji, carrying her through the air and creating both embarrassment and admiration in her.
• Su Chen commands Xiao Wu and Zhu Zhuqing during the fight, giving them precise tactical instructions and treating the battle like a controlled exercise.
• Xiao Wu and Zhu Zhuqing develop seamless combat coordination, alternating between frontal and rear attacks whenever Zhao Wuji loses control.
• Dai Mubai attempts to use Zhao Wuji to avenge himself against Su Chen, but ultimately hides from the fight after seeing how badly Zhao Wuji is defeated.
• Zhao Wuji angrily demands to know what “evil” skill Su Chen is using, recognizing that Su Chen—not the girls—is controlling the battle.
• After the fight, Xiao Wu casually suggests keeping Zhao Wuji as a permanent punching bag, provoking further outrage from the defeated instructor.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The group arrives at the dilapidated dormitories.
• Su Chen uses a Soul Tool to create a luxurious villa for them to live in.
• Ning Rongrong tries to move in with Su Chen, offering ten thousand Gold Soul Coins as rent.

Character Developments

• Su Chen: Displayed his wealth and power by conjuring a villa, showing his mysterious background.
• Ning Rongrong: Demonstrated her arrogance and entitlement, using her wealth to secure a place in the villa.
• Xiao Wu: Showed her miserly nature, focusing on the money offered by Ning Rongrong.
• Zhu Zhuqing: Displayed her practicality, choosing to live in the villa despite her initial coldness towards Su Chen.

Significant Themes

• Materialism vs. Spirituality: The characters' reactions to the luxurious villa versus the dilapidated dormitories highlight their priorities and values.
• Power Dynamics: The display of wealth and power shifts the dynamics between the characters, with Su Chen taking a dominant position.

Character Interactions

• Su Chen and Ning Rongrong: Ning Rongrong tries to get close to Su Chen, while he remains calm and collected.
• Xiao Wu and Ning Rongrong: Xiao Wu is initially hostile towards Ning Rongrong but becomes friendly after seeing the money she offers.
• Zhu Zhuqing and Su Chen: Zhu Zhuqing is initially cold towards Su Chen but chooses to live in the villa after seeing the alternative.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Tang San and Yu Xiaogang return to Shrek Academy after five years.
• A luxurious building has appeared at the academy, surprising Tang San and Yu Xiaogang.
• Yu Xiaogang suspects it's a facade for the ongoing student recruitment.
• Yu Xiaogang discusses the age limits for Soul Grandmasters absorbing second and third soul rings with other teachers, dismissing the possibility of a twelve-year-old having a thousand-year and a ten-thousand-year soul ring.

Character Developments

• Tang San has grown taller and tanner, but his bad luck persists.
• Yu Xiaogang has developed an "Anti-Explosion Infantry Positioning Method" to avoid Tang San's bad luck.
• Yu Xiaogang remains arrogant and self-important, clinging to his theories despite evidence to the contrary.

Significant Themes

• Bad luck and its impact on Tang San's life.
• Yu Xiaogang's stubborn adherence to his theories despite evidence challenging them.
• The luxurious building's appearance highlights the contrast between the academy's usual poverty and the current recruitment event.

Character Interactions

• Tang San and Yu Xiaogang maintain their master-disciple relationship, with Tang San showing filial piety despite his toothless grin.
• Yu Xiaogang interacts with other teachers, arguing about the age limits for absorbing soul rings.
• Zhao Wuji, Li Yusong, and Shao Xin are frustrated by Yu Xiaogang's dismissive attitude towards the possibility of a twelve-year-old having powerful soul rings.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Wuji publicly humiliated Yu Xiaogang, exposing his lack of practical experience and arrogance.
• Yu Xiaogang, enraged and humiliated, vowed to prove his theory about the limit of third soul rings.
• Ning Rongrong witnessed Xiao Wu and Su Chen entering a room together, causing her to feel jealous and frustrated.
• Xiao Wu and Su Chen engaged in a physical altercation, with Xiao Wu attempting to assert her dominance.

Character Developments

• Yu Xiaogang's pride was shattered, leading him to become determined to prove his theory.
• Xiao Wu displayed her aggressive and competitive nature, seeking to assert her dominance over Su Chen.
• Ning Rongrong showed her competitive and determined side, unwilling to accept defeat in the face of Xiao Wu's "victory."

Significant Themes

• The conflict between theory and practice, as exemplified by Yu Xiaogang's overreliance on books and lack of real-world experience.
• Competition and the desire to prove oneself, seen in both Yu Xiaogang's determination and Xiao Wu's aggressive behavior.
• The struggle for dominance and resources, as seen in Ning Rongrong's jealousy and desire to "share" Xiao Wu's "resources" with Zhu Zhuqing.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Wuji and Yu Xiaogang: Zhao Wuji humiliated Yu Xiaogang, leading to a public confrontation.
• Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing: Ning Rongrong attempted to form an alliance with Zhu Zhuqing to challenge Xiao Wu, but Zhu Zhuqing showed no interest.
• Xiao Wu and Su Chen: The two engaged in a physical altercation, with Xiao Wu attempting to assert her dominance.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Su Chen and Xiao Wu engage in a two-hour battle, ending with Xiao Wu's surrender.
• Tang Hao, grieving over his lost spirit bone, vows revenge against Spirit Hall.
• The group has breakfast together, with Ning Rongrong confronting Su Chen about giving the black gold card to Xiao Wu.
• They encounter Ma Hongjun, a lecherous student, harassing a girl and trying to force her into a relationship.

Character Developments

• Xiao Wu's arrogance is humbled after losing to Su Chen.
• Tang Hao's grief and anger over losing the spirit bone deepen his resolve for revenge.
• Ma Hongjun's lecherous behavior is further emphasized, showing his lack of respect for women.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and the consequences of underestimating one's opponent (Xiao Wu vs. Su Chen).
• The destructive nature of revenge and obsession (Tang Hao).
• Objectification and harassment of women (Ma Hongjun's behavior).

Character Interactions

• Xiao Wu and Su Chen's battle highlights their competitive nature and mutual respect.
• Ning Rongrong's jealousy and possessiveness towards Xiao Wu is evident in her confrontation with Su Chen.
• Xiao Wu's disdain for Ning Rongrong's lack of action is clear in her haughty gaze.
• Ma Hongjun's harassment of a girl and subsequent encounter with Xiao Wu and the group showcases his disregard for others and his lecherous nature.

Chapter Summary: “That Familiar Line—It’s You, Little Scumbag”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Tang San, Dai Mubai, Oscar, and Ma Hongjun arrive at Shrek Academy and unexpectedly encounter Su Chen, Xiao Wu, Zhu Zhuqing, and Ning Rongrong.
• Su Chen immediately mocks Tang San’s burned appearance and revives their old antagonism. Tang San angrily accuses him of betrayal, theft, and ruining his reputation.
• Dai Mubai recognizes Su Chen and Zhu Zhuqing together, triggering his jealousy and “green-hat” paranoia.
• Ma Hongjun dramatically begs Tang San and Dai Mubai for help, falsely claiming that Xiao Wu and the others tried to assault him after being attracted to his appearance. His disgusting explanation makes everyone else nearly vomit.
• The two groups formally face off. Xiao Wu insults Tang San, while Zhu Zhuqing repeats Su Chen’s fabricated stories about Tang San’s supposed immoral behavior.
• Ning Rongrong believes the rumors and becomes disgusted by Tang San, further humiliating him.
• When Tang San threatens Su Chen, Xiao Wu interrupts him and recites a seemingly elegant poem. Tang San, recognizing the hidden vulgarity through his knowledge of classical language, realizes it is an elaborate insult targeting his entire family.
• Enraged beyond reason, Tang San orders Ma Hongjun, Dai Mubai, and Oscar to attack. Tang San uses his Blue Silver Grass to bind Xiao Wu, Dai Mubai activates White Tiger Possession and charges Zhu Zhuqing, and Ma Hongjun uses Phoenix Possession to join the fight.

Character Developments

• Su Chen: Remains confident, mocking, and manipulative. He controls the confrontation through ridicule and enjoys provoking Tang San.
• Tang San: His pride and obsession with his reputation are exposed. Su Chen’s insults push him from righteous posturing into uncontrolled rage, causing him to initiate the battle.
• Xiao Wu: Shows complete loyalty to Su Chen and aggressively defends him. She has adopted his sarcastic style and successfully humiliates Tang San with her disguised insult.
• Dai Mubai: Continues to suffer from jealousy over Zhu Zhuqing and avoids confronting stronger opponents. He targets Zhu Zhuqing because he considers her the easiest enemy.
• Ma Hongjun: Is portrayed as shameless, cowardly, and vulgar, using an absurd lie to gain sympathy and protection.
• Zhu Zhuqing: Participates in Su Chen’s campaign against Tang San by calmly repeating the rumors about him, while remaining emotionally distant and focused.
• Ning Rongrong: Quickly becomes engrossed in the gossip and turns against Tang San after hearing the fabricated accusations.
• Oscar: Mostly observes the conflict and is bewildered by Xiao Wu’s poetic insult, though he is included in the impending battle.

Significant Themes

• Humiliation and reputation: Tang San’s rage stems less from physical danger than from the destruction of his public image.
• Mockery as power: Su Chen and Xiao Wu use insults, rumors, and wordplay to dominate the confrontation before the fighting begins.
• Jealousy and betrayal: Dai Mubai’s fixation on Zhu Zhuqing reflects his wounded pride and insecurity.
• Group loyalty: Xiao Wu, Zhu Zhuqing, and Ning Rongrong align with Su Chen, while Tang San relies on his Shrek companions for support.
• Conflict between appearance and reality: The characters’ public claims—especially Ma Hongjun’s false story and the rumors about Tang San—are deliberately exaggerated or fabricated, yet they still influence how others react.

Character Interactions

• Su Chen and Tang San resume their hostile relationship through mutual accusations and insults.
• Xiao Wu openly defends Su Chen and challenges Tang San’s authority.
• Zhu Zhuqing and Ning Rongrong bond through gossip at Tang San’s expense.
• Dai Mubai’s jealousy places him directly against Zhu Zhuqing.
• Ma Hongjun clings to Tang San for protection, while Tang San uses his companions as weapons against Su Chen’s group.
• The verbal confrontation escalates into a physical battle when Tang San launches his Blue Silver Grass attack.

Chapter Summary

Plot Points and Events

• A battle erupts between Su Chen’s group and the Shrek students.
• With Ning Rongrong’s strength and speed boosts, Xiao Wu attacks Tang San. She avoids his defensive grappling technique by sliding beneath his Blue Silver Grass and teleporting directly in front of him.
• Xiao Wu kicks Tang San in the face, knocks him into the mud, and repeatedly punches him before pinning him down. Tang San is unable to draw his hidden weapons.
• Dai Mubai attacks Zhu Zhuqing in a rage over her relationship with Su Chen. Su Chen intervenes, declaring Zhu Zhuqing one of “his people.”
• Dai Mubai uses White Tiger Intense Light Wave, but Su Chen’s second soul skill reflects the attack back at him, causing Dai Mubai to vomit blood and collapse.
• Ma Hongjun attempts to take advantage of the distraction and attacks Zhu Zhuqing. With Ning Rongrong’s buffs, Zhu Zhuqing overwhelms him using Hell Stab and Shadowless Chain Claws, leaving his face badly scratched and swollen.
• In less than three minutes, Tang San, Dai Mubai, and Ma Hongjun are defeated. Oscar remains unharmed because he hides in the rear making sausages.
• Su Chen secretly transfers Xiao Wu’s Hundred-Thousand-Year Soul Beast aura onto Tang San through his system. Powerful experts will now perceive Tang San as a Hundred-Thousand-Year Soul Beast, setting up possible trouble with Bibi Dong and Tang Hao.
• Li Yusong arrives and orders everyone to stop fighting. Remembering Su Chen’s previous treatment of Zhao Wuji, he avoids confronting Su Chen and instead tells the students to report to the training ground.
• Oscar and Li Yusong struggle to carry the three defeated students away.

Character Developments

• Xiao Wu displays her agility, teleportation, and overwhelming physical strength, taking personal pleasure in humiliating Tang San.
• Tang San becomes increasingly enraged and helpless. His confidence in Controlling Crane Capturing Dragon and his hidden weapons is undermined, while Su Chen secretly places him in grave danger.
• Ning Rongrong actively supports her allies with the Seven Treasures Glazed Pagoda and appears increasingly aligned with Su Chen’s group. She also senses that Su Chen has done something ominous to Tang San.
• Su Chen demonstrates confidence, combat superiority, and a mischievous, scheming nature. Rather than merely defeating Tang San, he creates a future crisis for him.
• Zhu Zhuqing openly fights alongside Su Chen and reacts warmly when he calls her “my people,” revealing growing emotional attachment.
• Dai Mubai is consumed by jealousy and anger but is decisively defeated by his own reflected attack.
• Ma Hongjun remains lecherous and is brutally punished for attempting to harass Zhu Zhuqing.
• Oscar is cowardly but practical, staying out of the fight and later helping transport his injured teammates.
• Li Yusong is intimidated by Su Chen after remembering his earlier defeat of Zhao Wuji, causing him to avoid taking action against the fighters.

Significant Themes

• Power imbalance and humiliation: The battle reverses expectations, with the supposedly dominant Shrek students being defeated quickly and publicly.
• Teamwork and support: Ning Rongrong’s buffs significantly enhance Xiao Wu and Zhu Zhuqing, showing the importance of coordinated abilities.
• Revenge and personal grudges: Xiao Wu, Su Chen, and Zhu Zhuqing use the fight to settle resentment against Tang San, Dai Mubai, and Ma Hongjun.
• Manipulation and hidden danger: Su Chen’s secret alteration of Tang San’s aura creates a threat beyond the immediate battle.
• Protection and possession: Su Chen’s statement that Zhu Zhuqing is “his people” highlights his protective attitude while also suggesting a possessive romantic bond.
• Comedy through exaggerated defeat: The opponents’ injuries, Oscar’s panic, and Li Yusong’s fearful response create a deliberately absurd and mocking tone.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Wu and Ning Rongrong cooperate to overpower Tang San.
• Su Chen protects Zhu Zhuqing and defeats Dai Mubai in front of her, strengthening their connection.
• Zhu Zhuqing, empowered by Ning Rongrong, defeats Ma Hongjun after he attempts to harass her.
• Su Chen taunts Tang San while secretly setting him up to be mistaken for a Hundred-Thousand-Year Soul Beast.
• Li Yusong avoids confronting Su Chen and instead ends the fight by ordering everyone to attend the academy gathering.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• After defeating Shrek’s senior students, Su Chen and the three girls return to the academy with Tang San, Dai Mubai, and Ma Hongjun badly injured.
• Ning Rongrong playfully seeks Su Chen’s praise for her support during the fight, but Xiao Wu interrupts and claims that she contributed more as the main attacker. Their rivalry becomes immediately apparent.
• Zhu Zhuqing silently judges Shrek Academy’s poor facilities and eccentric students, becoming increasingly dissatisfied with her decision to come there.
• Headmaster Flender initially prepares to punish the students for missing the first day of school, but his attitude changes completely when he sees Su Chen. After recognizing him as the person who defeated Zhao Wuji, Flender becomes cautious and flattering.
• Flender pretends that the severe beating was merely a “friendly sparring match,” praising Su Chen’s group instead of defending the injured senior students.
• He formally welcomes Su Chen, Xiao Wu, Ning Rongrong, and Zhu Zhuqing as new students and demands one hundred Gold Soul Coins in tuition from each of them.
• Because the injured students require treatment, Flender postpones the first day of classes until the following day.
• He announces that a “true Grandmaster” will oversee their training. Su Chen realizes that this must be Yu Xiaogang and privately anticipates seeing him again.
• Flender orders Li Yusong and Oscar to take the injured students to Shao Xin for treatment, while worrying that Tang Hao might retaliate if he sees Tang San’s condition.

Character Developments

• Su Chen: Remains confident and composed, accepting Flender’s exaggerated praise with amused politeness. His reaction to the announcement of Yu Xiaogang suggests unresolved history or anticipation regarding the Grandmaster.
• Xiao Wu: Displays possessiveness toward Su Chen and openly competes with Ning Rongrong for his attention and approval. She is also proud of her contribution to the battle.
• Ning Rongrong: Reveals a playful, competitive, and subtly manipulative side. She presents herself sweetly while deliberately provoking Xiao Wu and seeking Su Chen’s praise.
• Zhu Zhuqing: Becomes increasingly skeptical of Shrek Academy because of its shabby environment, high tuition, and strange personalities. She remains emotionally detached from the rivalry around Su Chen.
• Flender: Demonstrates his opportunistic and highly pragmatic nature. He shifts instantly from an angry headmaster to an ingratiating host once he realizes Su Chen is dangerous and influential. His priority is also clearly avoiding medical expenses and possible trouble with Tang Hao.
• Tang San, Dai Mubai, and Ma Hongjun: Suffer humiliating defeats and are angry that Flender refuses to acknowledge that they were attacked first. Their injuries also strip them of their usual confidence and authority.

Significant Themes

• Power and self-preservation: Flender’s rapid change in attitude shows how status and overwhelming strength determine social behavior.
• Hypocrisy and shamelessness: The one-sided beating is rebranded as a “friendly sparring match,” while the injured students’ complaints are ignored.
• Competition for affection and recognition: Xiao Wu and Ning Rongrong begin a rivalry centered on Su Chen’s attention and approval.
• Appearance versus reality: Shrek presents itself as an academy for extraordinary “monsters,” yet its facilities are impoverished and its leadership is inconsistent.
• Humor through contrast: Flender’s grand speech is repeatedly disrupted by the injured students’ groans, making the academy’s ideals appear absurd beside the immediate chaos.

Important Character Interactions

• Xiao Wu and Ning Rongrong: Engage in polite but hostile verbal sparring, with Xiao Wu physically pushing Rongrong aside and Rongrong responding with deceptively gentle remarks.
• Su Chen and the girls: Su Chen praises Ning Rongrong, unintentionally intensifying the competition between her and Xiao Wu.
• Flender and Su Chen: Flender treats Su Chen with exaggerated respect after recognizing his strength, carefully avoiding confrontation.
• Flender and the injured students: He ignores their resentment and disguises their defeat as an acceptable training exercise.
• Flender and Li Yusong: Li Yusong struggles to explain what happened, while Flender’s concern centers less on justice than on the cost of medical treatment.
• Su Chen and Yu Xiaogang: They do not meet in the chapter, but the announcement of Yu Xiaogang’s arrival establishes anticipation and hints at a significant past connection.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Su Chen and his group return to the villa. Su Chen is mentally harassed by Ah Yin about being too harsh on Tang San.
• Xiao Wu and Su Chen deduce that the 'Grandmaster' mentioned by the Dean is Yu Xiaogang.
• Ning Rongrong tries to persuade Su Chen to join her at the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect, but he declines.
• Meanwhile, Yu Xiaogang is upset after being insulted by Zhao Wuji. Flender visits him and reveals that there are students even stronger than Tang San, trying to motivate Yu Xiaogang to teach them.

Character Developments

• Su Chen remains calm and collected, showing no intention of leaving Shrek Academy despite Ning Rongrong's offer.
• Xiao Wu shows her loyalty and support for Su Chen, agreeing with his decision to stay.
• Ning Rongrong displays her persistence in pursuing Su Chen, using both persuasion and subtle hints.
• Yu Xiaogang's fragile ego and desire for recognition are further emphasized, driving him to want to prove his theories with stronger students.

Significant Themes

• The theme of proving oneself and seeking recognition, as seen in Yu Xiaogang's desire to prove his theories and Su Chen's determination to make a name for himself.
• The theme of loyalty and camaraderie, as shown in Xiao Wu's support for Su Chen and Flender's attempt to console Yu Xiaogang.

Character Interactions

• Su Chen and Xiao Wu interact harmoniously, sharing their thoughts and decisions.
• Ning Rongrong interacts with Su Chen and Xiao Wu, trying to persuade Su Chen to join her at the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect.
• Flender interacts with Yu Xiaogang, trying to motivate him by revealing the presence of stronger students at the academy.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Flender brings Yu Xiaogang, a renowned spirit master theorist, to Shrek Academy to train the students.
• Yu Xiaogang agrees to train the students but demands absolute authority over the training and an apology from Zhao Wuji.
• That night, Su Chen and Xiao Wu play cards, and Ning Rongrong eavesdrops.
• The next day, Yu Xiaogang is introduced to the students, and Xiao Wu exposes his past, causing him to become enraged.

Character Developments

• Yu Xiaogang: Struggles with his pride and desire for recognition, agrees to train the students but demands excessive control and an apology.
• Xiao Wu: Shows no fear in confronting Yu Xiaogang, exposing his past and causing him to lose his composure.
• Flender: Attempts to maintain control and respect for Yu Xiaogang but struggles to keep the situation in check.
• Tang San and his group: Resentful towards Su Chen and his group, but also fearful of their abilities.

Significant Themes

• Pride and its consequences: Yu Xiaogang's pride leads him to demand excessive control and an apology, ultimately causing him to lose his composure.
• Power dynamics: The struggle for control and respect between Yu Xiaogang, Flender, and the students.
• Consequences of past actions: Yu Xiaogang's past actions (having his "little brother" sliced off by Tang San) come back to haunt him.

Character Interactions

• Flender and Yu Xiaogang: Flender attempts to coax and persuade Yu Xiaogang to train the students, while Yu Xiaogang demands control and an apology.
• Xiao Wu and Yu Xiaogang: Xiao Wu exposes Yu Xiaogang's past, causing him to become enraged and lose his composure.
• Tang San's group and Su Chen's group: Tang San's group resents Su Chen's group but is also fearful of their abilities, leading to a tense standoff.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Wu insults Yu Xiaogang by calling him an "eunuch," causing him to lose his composure.
• Xiao Wu demands a refund of her tuition fees, supported by Ning Rongrong, Zhu Zhuqing, and Su Chen.
• Dean Flender tries to mediate but fails to prevent Yu Xiaogang from leaving.
• Flender announces a practical lesson in Suotuo City after nightfall.

Character Developments

• Yu Xiaogang's pride and lack of self-awareness are exposed, leading to his humiliation.
• Xiao Wu demonstrates her assertiveness and unwillingness to back down.
• Tang San's loyalty to his mentor is highlighted, leading to his anger and desire for revenge.

Significant Themes

• The importance of respect and mutual understanding between teachers and students.
• The consequences of excessive pride and lack of self-awareness.
• The value of practical lessons and experiences in education.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Wu and Yu Xiaogang's heated argument highlights their contrasting personalities.
• Tang San's loyalty to Yu Xiaogang is tested and strengthened by Xiao Wu's insults.
• Dean Flender tries to balance the needs of the academy with the demands of the students, struggling to maintain control.

Chapter Summary: “Making It in the World Depends on Money and Connections”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Flender announces a practical lesson: the students must travel from Shrek Academy to Suotuo City’s Great Soul Arena, where they will earn money through combat.
• Rather than allowing them to travel normally, Flender flies ahead and orders Tang San, Dai Mubai, Ma Hongjun, and Oscar to run after him as a test of stamina.
• Su Chen refuses to waste energy on the run. Instead, he summons his flashy Pink Tricycle, though Xiao Wu rejects it because of its uncomfortable ride.
• Su Chen gives Xiao Wu, Ning Rongrong, and Zhu Zhuqing Flying Soul Guidance Devices, allowing them to travel through the air.
• Xiao Wu teaches Ning Rongrong how to fly while competing with her for Su Chen’s attention. Su Chen personally helps Zhu Zhuqing, catching her when she loses control and flying with her in his arms.
• Su Chen deliberately flies low over the exhausted runners, especially Dai Mubai, making him see Zhu Zhuqing being held intimately by another man.
• Dai Mubai becomes furious and jealous, while Tang San angrily vows revenge after Su Chen taunts him.
• Xiao Wu defends the prank, claiming it is justified because Tang San and the others attacked them the previous day.
• Flender observes the situation and realizes that his intended endurance test has been undermined by Su Chen’s superior equipment and abilities.

Character Developments

• Su Chen: Demonstrates his preference for efficiency and comfort over unnecessary hardship. He also shows a mischievous, provocative side by intentionally humiliating Dai Mubai and irritating Tang San.
• Xiao Wu: Remains openly possessive of Su Chen and treats Ning Rongrong as a romantic rival. She cleverly agrees to teach Ning Rongrong to fly so she can keep her away from Su Chen.
• Ning Rongrong: Becomes increasingly competitive with Xiao Wu and attempts to gain Su Chen’s attention by pretending she needs his help. Her jealousy is especially clear when Su Chen carries Zhu Zhuqing.
• Zhu Zhuqing: Shows initial nervousness and embarrassment around Su Chen, particularly when he fastens the flight device and catches her. She gradually allows herself to rely on him, suggesting growing emotional trust and attraction.
• Dai Mubai: Suffers intense jealousy upon seeing Zhu Zhuqing in Su Chen’s arms. His anger reinforces the tension between him and Su Chen.
• Tang San: Becomes frustrated and humiliated by Su Chen’s taunting, strengthening his determination to oppose him.
• Oscar: Resents Flender’s unfair endurance challenge because, as a food-system Soul Master, he is poorly suited to a long-distance sprint.
• Flender: His authority and lesson are indirectly undermined by Su Chen’s technology, leaving him frustrated and speechless.

Significant Themes

• Money, technology, and connections: The chapter’s central joke is that success depends less on hard work than on superior resources and advantageous relationships. Su Chen bypasses Flender’s test through advanced equipment and personal influence.
• Comfort versus unnecessary suffering: Su Chen rejects the idea that hardship is automatically valuable, choosing a practical and efficient solution instead.
• Jealousy and romantic competition: Xiao Wu, Ning Rongrong, Zhu Zhuqing, and Dai Mubai are caught in a web of rivalry, possessiveness, and emotional tension.
• Humiliation and retaliation: Su Chen uses public teasing as revenge for the previous attack, while Tang San and Dai Mubai respond with anger and promises of future payback.
• Authority versus individual cleverness: Flender attempts to control the group through a disciplinary test, but Su Chen’s ingenuity renders the challenge meaningless.

Character Interactions

• Su Chen and Xiao Wu: Their playful closeness is evident, though Xiao Wu becomes possessive whenever another girl seeks his attention.
• Su Chen and Ning Rongrong: Ning Rongrong deliberately imitates Xiao Wu’s affectionate behavior to obtain special treatment, but Xiao Wu prevents her from monopolizing Su Chen.
• Su Chen and Zhu Zhuqing: Their flight lesson creates the chapter’s most intimate interaction. His physical support and calm guidance make her nervous but receptive.
• Xiao Wu and Ning Rongrong: They maintain a polite outward relationship while covertly competing for Su Chen’s affection.
• Su Chen and Dai Mubai: Su Chen intentionally provokes Dai Mubai by displaying intimacy with Zhu Zhuqing directly above him.
• Su Chen and Tang San: Su Chen taunts Tang San from the air, prompting open hostility and a promise of revenge.
• Flender and the students: Flender tries to enforce discipline, but the students’ reactions and Su Chen’s shortcuts turn his lesson into an unintended farce.

Chapter Summary: “Toad Seeks Frog, Ugly Ones Play Wild”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Su Chen, Xiao Wu, Ning Rongrong, and Zhu Zhuqing arrive at Suotuo City by flying, while Tang San and the others are forced to run behind them as physical training.
• Flender welcomes the exhausted students with the cheapest tea available before introducing the Soto Great Soul Arena.
• He explains the arena’s one-on-one, two-on-two, and team battles, along with sparring, death, and wager matches. Students earn points and improve their Soul Fighting Badge ranks through victories.
• Flender declares that nobody may graduate from Shrek Academy until earning a Silver Soul Badge. Su Chen privately recognizes that this also saves the academy training expenses and may provide betting opportunities.
• The students are instructed to register under aliases and compete in both one-on-one and two-on-two matches.
• Xiao Wu and Ning Rongrong both try to team up with Su Chen. Su Chen instead pairs Xiao Wu with Ning Rongrong so Xiao Wu can protect and guide her, while he partners with Zhu Zhuqing.
• Dai Mubai attempts to reconcile with Zhu Zhuqing and persuades her to join him for the two-on-two match. Zhu Zhuqing rejects him, accusing him of fearing death rather than fighting for their future.
• Xiao Wu intervenes, insults Dai Mubai for his cowardice and womanizing, and declares that Zhu Zhuqing is now Su Chen’s woman. Dai Mubai becomes furious but retreats after Su Chen silently intimidates him.
• Zhu Zhuqing finally lets go of the last emotional connection she had to her Star Luo engagement and agrees to register with Su Chen.

Character Developments

• Su Chen: Demonstrates authority and strategic judgment by organizing the teams according to combat ability. He also continues to intimidate Dai Mubai without needing to fight him.
• Xiao Wu: Shows her loyalty to Su Chen and protectiveness toward Zhu Zhuqing. She openly mocks Dai Mubai and acts possessive of her friendships and alliances.
• Ning Rongrong: Competes playfully with Xiao Wu for Su Chen’s attention but accepts the assigned pairing. Her reaction to Zhu Zhuqing’s relationship with Su Chen reveals growing jealousy and awareness of romantic rivalry.
• Zhu Zhuqing: Becomes emotionally stronger and more decisive. She rejects Dai Mubai’s excuses, abandons her remaining hope in their engagement, and accepts Su Chen as her partner.
• Dai Mubai: Tries to recover his relationship with Zhu Zhuqing through apologies and promises, but his desperation and past cowardice are exposed. When Su Chen appears, he loses his nerve and retreats.
• Flender: Presents the Soul Arena as a noble training ground, though Su Chen sees through the financial and practical motives behind his speech. He ultimately avoids intervening in the conflict.

Significant Themes

• True strength versus empty rhetoric: Flender’s heroic speech is contrasted with the practical motives behind the academy’s policy, while Dai Mubai’s grand promises collapse under pressure.
• Combat experience and growth: The Soul Arena is introduced as an essential place where talent must be tested through real battles.
• Loyalty and chosen relationships: Xiao Wu’s defense of Zhu Zhuqing and Su Chen’s team arrangements show the growing importance of bonds formed at Shrek over old obligations.
• Breaking free from the past: Zhu Zhuqing rejects the fate imposed by her Star Luo engagement and chooses to move forward rather than rely on Dai Mubai.
• Humor and social rivalry: The chapter uses teasing, insults, jealousy, and exaggerated reactions to lighten the serious conflict surrounding the characters’ romantic and political relationships.

Important Character Interactions

• Su Chen and Flender exchange sarcastic remarks over the students’ travel and Flender’s frugality.
• Xiao Wu and Ning Rongrong compete for Su Chen as a two-on-two partner, creating playful tension.
• Dai Mubai attempts to manipulate Zhu Zhuqing through their childhood engagement, but she firmly rejects him.
• Xiao Wu verbally attacks Dai Mubai and publicly links Zhu Zhuqing with Su Chen, intensifying Dai Mubai’s humiliation.
• Su Chen’s quiet arrival ends the confrontation, proving that his reputation alone is enough to frighten Dai Mubai.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Su Chen and his group register for the Soul Fighting Arena with unique and provocative code names.
• They form two-on-two combinations: No Money No Disturb (Xiao Wu & Ning Rongrong) and Outlaw Cat-Petting (Su Chen & Zhu Zhuqing).
• They receive their Iron Soul Badges and are directed to the waiting area.

Character Developments

• Su Chen demonstrates his strategic thinking and quick wit in choosing code names and combinations.
• Zhu Zhuqing shows a hint of embarrassment and discomfort with Su Chen's choice of "Outlaw Cat-Petting" combination.
• Xiao Wu and Ning Rongrong display their respective personalities through their chosen names and actions.

Significant Themes

• The importance of code names and combinations in the Soul Fighting Arena.
• The contrast between Su Chen's provocative and strategic approach and the more straightforward approach of others.

Character Interactions

• Su Chen interacts with the registration staff, demonstrating his quick wit and disregard for convention.
• Su Chen and Zhu Zhuqing have a brief exchange regarding their combination name, showing a hint of tension and discomfort between them.
• Xiao Wu and Ning Rongrong display their friendship and camaraderie as they form a combination together.