Chapter Summaries

Chapter Summary: Spirit Tempering Realm

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chi Yu’s consciousness finally disappears from Xiao Fan’s sea of consciousness, leaving behind three crucial gifts:
  1. The Saintess has already used Xiao Fan for forty-nine days to purge her Killing Intent.
  2. Dongfang Yunxi’s payment includes a God-Tempering Pill, allowing Xiao Fan to attempt a breakthrough.
  3. Chi Yu passes on the legendary fire-element technique, the Heaven-Burning Art.
• Xiao Fan swallows the God-Tempering Pill and successfully breaks through from the eighth-rank Martial Path Iron Bone Realm to the seventh-rank Spirit Tempering Realm.
• His divine sense becomes vastly sharper, allowing him to perceive minute movements and changes in the surrounding environment.
• His Calamity Poison Value limit doubles from 100 to 200, suggesting that the stronger spiritual willpower of the seventh rank helps suppress the poison more effectively.
• Xiao Fan then begins cultivating the second realm of the Sovereign True Dragon Heart Seal, “True Breath Transforms into Dragon.”
• He successfully unlocks the second realm and gains two abilities:

Stir Heaven and Earth

Sense Willpower

• Through these abilities, Xiao Fan can detect the flow of fortune and opportunity, as well as the collective willpower scattered among living beings.

Character Development

• Xiao Fan makes a major advancement in both cultivation and spiritual perception. His divine will becomes powerful and refined, restoring him fully from the weakness caused by blood loss.
• He demonstrates increasing confidence and decisiveness by immediately consuming the God-Tempering Pill and pursuing further breakthroughs without hesitation.
• Xiao Fan also gains a deeper understanding of the relationship between spiritual willpower, national fortune, and cultivation.
• His reaction to the Heaven-Burning Art reveals both admiration for its power and frustration that he currently lacks the seventh-rank sorcerous cultivation required to practice it.
• Chi Yu’s final contribution is revealed to be extremely significant: even after death, his guidance continues shaping Xiao Fan’s future.
• Dongfang Yunxi becomes increasingly important as the source of the pill and as the only known person capable of cultivating the Heaven-Burning Art to its fifth level.
• The Saintess’s earlier use of Xiao Fan to remove her Killing Intent remains an important unexplained connection between them.

Character Interactions

• Chi Yu’s final interaction with Xiao Fan is indirect but deeply influential, as he leaves behind information and techniques that fundamentally aid Xiao Fan’s advancement.
• Xiao Fan reflects on Dongfang Yunxi’s payment and plans to use the additional God-Tempering Pill he expects to receive from winning the Nine Provinces Martial Tournament to help his elder sister break through.
• Xiao Fan senses Xiao Cui moving in the neighboring room, demonstrating the dramatic improvement in his perception.
• His relationship with the Saintess is referenced through her prolonged use of him to purge her Killing Intent, suggesting an unusual and possibly controlling bond.

Significant Themes

• Inheritance and legacy: Chi Yu’s final act ensures that his knowledge and power live on through Xiao Fan.
• Rapid growth through opportunity: Xiao Fan’s advancement depends on recognizing and immediately using the resources and knowledge available to him.
• Body, spirit, and willpower: The chapter contrasts physical cultivation with spiritual cultivation, showing that the latter has a direct effect on resisting the Calamity Poison.
• Perception and power: Xiao Fan’s enhanced senses allow him to detect not only physical movements but also the invisible willpower of living beings.
• National fortune and collective emotion: The second realm introduces the idea that hope, despair, hatred, and goodwill can influence the strength or corruption of a nation’s fortune.
• Destiny and influence: “Stir Heaven and Earth” suggests that Xiao Fan may eventually move beyond sensing fate and begin actively affecting the world’s opportunities and fortunes.
• Foreshadowing: The Heaven-Burning Art and Xiao Fan’s ability to perceive collective willpower hint at future conflicts involving sorcery, national destiny, and the manipulation of public emotion.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Fan unlocks the second realm of the Sovereign True Dragon Heart Seal, gaining abilities like "reshaping heaven and earth," "seeing into people's hearts," and "controlling destiny."
• He attempts to use the ability "Stirring Heaven and Earth" to summon rain but fails due to his low cultivation rank.
• Xiao Fan uses the new ability "Wish Sense" to sense the wishes of his family and the Black-Clad Guard, gaining insights into their hopes and desires.
• He clears his Calamity Poison value at midnight and gains 200 clean cultivation points.
• Xiao Fan begins cultivating the fourth form of the Flame Dance Nine Forms, [Void Break], which allows him to strike enemies from a distance using his divine intent to guide the saber qi.

Character Developments

• Xiao Fan gains new abilities and insights, demonstrating his growth and curiosity.
• Xiao Cui and Xiao Jinlan are revealed to have strong, fervent wishes, while Xu Ge's wish power is surprisingly detached from material desires.
• Xiao Fan's parents have a gentle, warm wish power, reflecting their hope and resilience despite their experiences.

Significant Themes

• The power of wishes and hope, and how they manifest in individuals and society.
• The limitations and potential of cultivation, with Xiao Fan's new abilities being powerful but currently out of his reach.
• The contrast between Xiao Fan's energetic spirit and his physically exhausted body, highlighting the disconnect between his mental and physical states.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Fan interacts with his family members, using his new abilities to sense their wishes and gain insights into their lives.
• He practices [Void Break] alone in the rear courtyard, demonstrating his dedication to improving his skills.
• Xiao Fan's interactions with his family are brief but reveal the dynamics of their relationships, with his elder sister Xiao Jinlan being particularly notable for her strength and determination.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Fan recovers from his injuries using pills given by Ji Xuanyuan.
• He attends the imperial court, where Emperor Hongwu discusses the aftermath of the earthquake and the lingering poison from the solar eclipse.
• Xiao Fan is summoned to the Purple Zenith Hall and rewarded by Emperor Hongwu for winning the Nine Provinces Martial Tournament.

Character Developments

• Xiao Fan demonstrates his ability to act and flatter, trying to decline the reward to appear humble.
• Emperor Hongwu shows favor towards Xiao Fan, acknowledging his talent and rewarding him with a Class-A token of the Shadow Pivot Court and a position within the court.

Significant Themes

• Talent and merit are rewarded in Great Liang, regardless of birth.
• The importance of loyalty and service to the nation.
• The power dynamics and politics within the imperial court.

Character Interactions

• Emperor Hongwu shows favor towards Xiao Fan, acknowledging his talent and rewarding him.
• Xiao Fan acts humbly in front of Emperor Hongwu, trying to decline the reward.
• Officials in the court react with surprise to Xiao Fan's reward, indicating his rapid rise in status.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Fan thanks the Crown Prince and is about to leave when Princess Lingxi's maid, Hua'er, stops him, asking him to meet the Princess.
• Xiao Fan follows Hua'er to the Palace of Eternal Joy, where Princess Lingxi asks him to treat her cold ailment using his healing skills.
• Xiao Fan uses his [Warm Heart Furnace] technique to alleviate Princess Lingxi's cold, causing her to react favorably to his touch.
• Xiao Fan stops the technique midway, suggesting he will visit the Princess regularly to continue treating her and telling her stories.

Character Developments

• Xiao Fan: He demonstrates his medical skills and understanding of palace politics, subtly manipulating Princess Lingxi's feelings without directly expressing them.
• Princess Lingxi: She shows vulnerability and a growing interest in Xiao Fan, initially maintaining her princessly demeanor but eventually succumbing to the comfort of his technique and expressing her desire for him to continue.

Significant Themes

• Power Dynamics: Xiao Fan uses his unique skills to gain favor with Princess Lingxi, highlighting the power imbalance and manipulation within palace politics.
• Physical Intimacy and Emotional Connection: The physical contact between Xiao Fan and Princess Lingxi, facilitated by his healing technique, sparks an emotional connection between them.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Fan and Princess Lingxi: Their interaction is marked by subtlety and restraint, with Xiao Fan using his skills to gain Princess Lingxi's favor without directly expressing his intentions, and Princess Lingxi gradually lowering her guard around him.
• Hua'er: The maid serves as a go-between, facilitating the meeting between Xiao Fan and Princess Lingxi, and subtly encouraging Xiao Fan to treat the Princess.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Princess Lingxi asks Xiao Fan to secretly escort her out of the capital to see the world.
• Xiao Fan decides to tell her a story, "At the Mountains of Madness," to deter her from her plans.
• In the Great Liang Astronomical Bureau, Wan Gan, the long-lost Chief Astronomer, returns after a century, shattering the formations that confined him.
• Wan Gan sends a mental message to all Astronomical Bureau sorcerers, summoning them to the Myriad Phenomena Tower.
• The return of Wan Gan causes shock and disbelief among those who remember him, as his existence had been largely erased from their memories.

Character Developments

• Princess Lingxi: Shows curiosity and adventurous spirit, wanting to leave the capital to explore the world.
• Xiao Fan: Demonstrates wisdom and caution, trying to dissuade Princess Lingxi from her plans.
• Wan Gan: Returns after a century, revealing his immense power and the erasure of his existence from people's memories.

Significant Themes

• The allure of the unknown and the dangers it poses.
• The power of memory and its manipulation.
• The consequences of a long absence and the impact of a sudden return.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Fan and Princess Lingxi: Their interaction shows Xiao Fan's protective and cautious nature towards the princess, while she displays curiosity and a desire for adventure.
• Wan Gan and the sorcerers: Wan Gan's return causes shock and disbelief among the sorcerers, highlighting the power of his presence and the impact of his long absence.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Emperor Hongwu, Shadow Pivot Court Director Yan Jing, and National Preceptor Dongfang Yunxi await the arrival of Wan Gan, a First-Rank Sorcery God.
• Wan Gan appears, and Emperor Hongwu threatens to kill him if he had arrived one breath later, indicating his distrust due to the Calamity Poison.
• Wan Gan offers to let Emperor Hongwu act now if he still harbors doubts about his clear mind and purged Calamity Poison.
• Yan Jing and Dongfang Yunxi intervene, reminding Wan Gan of the pact they made a century ago to seal him and grant him time to dispel the poison.
• Emperor Hongwu steps forward, questioning Wan Gan's true state and the depth of his clarity, given the unprecedented contamination of the Calamity Poison.
• Emperor Hongwu proposes that Wan Gan hand over his divine spirit to him as the only way to indirectly probe his true state.

Character Developments

• Emperor Hongwu: Shows extreme caution and suspicion towards Wan Gan, demonstrating his responsibility towards the realm and its people.
• Wan Gan: Remains calm and composed despite the pressure and threats, asserting his clear mind and purged Calamity Poison.
• Yan Jing: Acts as a mediator, reminding Wan Gan of the pact and attempting to ease the tension.
• Dongfang Yunxi: Also mediates, emphasizing the pact and the potential consequences if Wan Gan's mind is not clear.

Significant Themes

• Trust and suspicion: Emperor Hongwu's distrust of Wan Gan highlights the theme of trust and its importance in maintaining peace and stability.
• Power and responsibility: The characters' actions showcase the responsibilities that come with power, particularly in Emperor Hongwu's case.
• The consequences of one's actions: Wan Gan's past actions and the Calamity Poison's contamination have far-reaching consequences, affecting not only him but also those around him.

Character Interactions

• Emperor Hongwu and Wan Gan: Their interaction is tense and filled with scrutiny, as Emperor Hongwu questions Wan Gan's true state and Wan Gan asserts his clarity.
• Yan Jing and Dongfang Yunxi: They both intervene to remind Wan Gan of the pact and ease the tension between him and Emperor Hongwu.
• Emperor Hongwu, Yan Jing, and Dongfang Yunxi: They stand in a triangular formation, awaiting Wan Gan's arrival and demonstrating their united front against potential threats.

Chapter Summary: “Yes, and No”

Key Plot Points and Events

• The chapter opens with an explanation of the spirit core, the essential foundation of a third-rank or higher arcanist’s existence. As long as it survives, an arcanist can theoretically resurrect repeatedly; however, if someone else possesses it, they can kill the arcanist permanently.
• Emperor Hongwu demands Wan Gan’s spirit core, effectively placing the old minister’s life in his hands. Wan Gan initially reacts with rare fury, recognizing the demand as equivalent to execution.
• To enforce his will, Hongwu summons the terrifying Dragon-Suppressing Remains, a skeletal greatsword radiating overwhelming killing intent. Faced with the emperor’s threat, Wan Gan suppresses his resistance and submits, accepting that he has no choice but to obey his ruler.
• Hongwu promises to return the spirit core once Wan Gan proves himself “clear-headed,” though he remains suspicious and orders Yan Jing and Dongfang Yunxi to establish a formation.
• The scene shifts to the Palace of Eternal Joy, where Xiao Fan has finished telling Princess Lingxi a deliberately altered cosmic-horror story. He changes the ending so that all the mountain climbers perish eternally within the black mountain, intensifying the story’s despair.
• Princess Lingxi is frightened and tearful, while Hua’er angrily accuses Xiao Fan of bullying her mistress. Xiao Fan apologizes, though he privately feels he has done nothing wrong.
• When Lingxi asks whether the outside world is truly dangerous, Xiao Fan replies, “Yes... and no.” He admits that the world beyond the capital is dangerous, but explains that the “no” comes from her longing to experience its freedom and beauty.
• Xiao Fan launches into an emotional performance, claiming that he understands Lingxi’s desire to travel and blaming his own weak cultivation for being unable to protect her. He vows to cultivate relentlessly until he can safely guide her through the Nine Provinces.
• To reinforce his declaration, he takes her hand and swears before heaven and earth that his words are sincere. He presses his forehead to her hand in a solemn gesture, deeply affecting both Lingxi and Hua’er.

Character Developments

• Wan Gan shifts from anger and resistance to resigned submission. His response reflects both his loyalty to the emperor and his awareness of the absolute power imbalance between them.
• Emperor Hongwu is shown as ruthless, suspicious, and authoritarian. He is willing to threaten a trusted minister’s very existence to ensure obedience and continues guarding against possible deception even after Wan Gan submits.
• Xiao Fan demonstrates his talent for theatrical manipulation and emotional persuasion. Although his performance is exaggerated, his concern for Lingxi’s safety and desire to help her experience the outside world contain genuine sincerity.
• Princess Lingxi is portrayed as sheltered, curious, and deeply yearning for freedom beyond the palace. Xiao Fan’s speech touches her emotional longing, making her increasingly moved and romantically affected.
• Hua’er acts as Lingxi’s fiercely protective attendant. She immediately defends the princess, but Xiao Fan’s apparent devotion also wins her over.

Significant Themes

• Absolute power and forced loyalty: Wan Gan’s spirit core symbolizes how a ruler can control not only a subject’s actions but their very possibility of survival.
• Duty versus personal will: Wan Gan’s submission reflects the traditional conflict between individual dignity and unquestioning obedience to imperial authority.
• Freedom versus protection: Lingxi longs to see the world, while Xiao Fan frames his role as becoming strong enough to let her pursue that freedom safely.
• Performance and sincerity: Xiao Fan uses dramatic acting to influence Lingxi, yet his exaggerated declarations are supported by real concern, blurring the line between manipulation and genuine devotion.
• Horror and emotional control: The bleak story Xiao Fan tells frightens Lingxi, but he then redirects her fear into intimacy and admiration through his promise of protection.

Character Interactions

• Hongwu and Wan Gan: Their exchange is a coercive confrontation. Wan Gan protests that surrendering his spirit core is equivalent to death, but Hongwu’s display of the Dragon-Suppressing Remains forces him to yield.
• Hongwu, Yan Jing, and Dongfang Yunxi: Hongwu commands them to prepare a formation, and both immediately comply, emphasizing the emperor’s authority.
• Xiao Fan and Lingxi: Their conversation evolves from fear and reprimand into emotional closeness. Xiao Fan exploits—but also sincerely responds to—Lingxi’s wish to leave the palace and see the Nine Provinces.
• Hua’er and Xiao Fan: Hua’er initially attacks Xiao Fan for upsetting Lingxi, but his apology and apparent devotion quickly move her.
• Xiao Fan and Lingxi’s physical interaction: Xiao Fan takes Lingxi’s hand and places his forehead against it while swearing loyalty, creating a charged, intimate moment that leaves her visibly shaken and emotionally stirred.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Fan leaves the Palace of Eternal Joy after meeting Princess Lingxi.
• He heads to the Shadow Pivot Court offices to take up his post.
• Liu Jiashan guides Xiao Fan through the Shadow Pivot Court, revealing its four core departments: [Heaven Listening Platform], [Inspectorate], [Black-Clad Guard], and [Shadowless Pavilion].

Character Developments

• Xiao Fan:
  • Reflects on his relationship with Princess Lingxi and her desire to leave the capital.
  • Realizes the importance of improving his cultivation for self-protection and to safeguard his loved ones.
• Liu Jiashan:
  • Shows signs of stress and fatigue from his work.
  • Reveals his negative wish power and hints at past troubles involving the Grand Moon Sect.
  • Provides insight into the Shadow Pivot Court's operations and its role in maintaining imperial power.

Significant Themes

• The Shadow Pivot Court's power and influence, and its role in maintaining imperial control.
• The necessity of cultivating strength for self-protection and safeguarding loved ones.
• The ruthlessness required to deal with evil forces.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Fan and Liu Jiashan:
  • Xiao Fan addresses Liu Jiashan as 'Brother Liu' despite Liu Jiashan's higher rank.
  • Liu Jiashan guides Xiao Fan through the Shadow Pivot Court and shares insights about its operations.
• Xiao Fan and Princess Lingxi (implied):
  • Xiao Fan reflects on his relationship with Princess Lingxi and her desire to leave the capital.
  • He vows to improve his cultivation to protect her and his loved ones.

Key Plot Points

• Xiao Fan arrives at Yan Jing's residence, the Tranquil Mind Studio, which is surprisingly simple and unguarded.
• He meets the Shadow Pivot Court's Four Symbol Envoys: Qing Yao (Azure Dragon), Yang Tong (White Tiger), and Wei Xian (Black Tortoise).
• Xiao Fan must choose between joining the [Black-Clad Guard], [Heaven Listening Platform], or [Inspectorate].

Character Developments

• Xiao Fan demonstrates his self-control and strategic thinking by resisting Qing Yao's allure and choosing the [Black-Clad Guard] based on practical reasons.
• Yang Tong shows his eagerness to have Xiao Fan join his division, hinting at potential future benefits.

Significant Themes

• The importance of intelligence gathering and field action in the Shadow Pivot Court.
• The allure and danger of power, as exemplified by Qing Yao's seductive charm and Wei Xian's ominous presence.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Fan interacts with the Four Symbol Envoys, showcasing his composure and decision-making skills.
• Yang Tong and Qing Yao compete for Xiao Fan's allegiance, revealing their respective departments' strengths and weaknesses.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Fan officially joins the Black-Clad Guard as an "A"-rank member.
• He receives his uniform, weapon voucher, and other equipment.
• He learns about the weapon voucher's use and the Black-Clad Guard's humane management.
• Xiao Fan is given a poisoned dagger by an unknown sender, suspected to be from Shadowless Pavilion.
• Yang Tong assigns Xiao Fan to serve as a pillow at the Sacred Fire Altar.

Character Developments

• Xiao Fan shows pragmatism in accepting his new role.
• Yang Tong displays his humane management style and keeps his promise to Xiao Fan about the wolf demon.
• Lin Fengche, an arrogant and overbearing Black-Clad Guard, is introduced.

Significant Themes

• Pragmatism: Xiao Fan accepts his new role despite his reluctance to part with Lord Azure Dragon.
• Humane management: The Black-Clad Guard's management is shown to be considerate, issuing weapon vouchers and providing useful equipment.
• Arrogance and pride: Lin Fengche's behavior highlights the negative aspects of excessive pride.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Fan and Yang Tong: They have a cordial interaction, with Yang Tong showing consideration for Xiao Fan's well-being.
• Xiao Fan and Lin Fengche: Their interaction is tense, with Lin Fengche trying to provoke Xiao Fan, who remains calm and collected.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Fan retrieves his black steed from Team Seven's barracks, leaving Liu Jiashan dejected.
• Xiao Fan returns to the Sacred Fire Altar, where disciples express sympathy and pity.
• Xiao Fan is pulled into the Red Crystal Palace by an inexplicable force.
• Dongfang Yunxi's hair is more than half red, indicating her condition has worsened.
• Xiao Fan lies on the Red Crystal Bed with Dongfang Yunxi for a blood exchange, lasting two hours longer than usual.

Character Developments

• Xiao Fan maintains his composure and calm despite the embarrassing situation with Dongfang Yunxi.
• Liu Jiashan is suspended pending investigation, causing him to feel dejected and powerless.
• Gao Jun, a young Black-Clad Guard, shows potential for growth as he impresses Xiao Fan.

Significant Themes

• Respect and Hierarchy: Xiao Fan reminds Gao Jun to respect Liu Jiashan, despite his suspension, highlighting the importance of hierarchy and respect in their society.
• Sacrifice: Xiao Fan feels he is sacrificing himself for the common people, echoing the theme of sacrifice seen in the Imperial Preceptor's actions.
• Embarrassment and Endurance: Xiao Fan struggles with the embarrassing situation with Dongfang Yunxi, testing his endurance and self-control.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Fan and Liu Jiashan: Xiao Fan retrieves his horse from Liu Jiashan, who is suspended and feeling dejected. Xiao Fan shows understanding and respect for Liu Jiashan's position.
• Xiao Fan and Gao Jun: Xiao Fan interacts positively with Gao Jun, remembering his name and giving him advice, potentially fostering a mentor-mentee relationship.
• Xiao Fan and Dongfang Yunxi: Their interaction is tense and awkward due to the intimate nature of the blood exchange process. Dongfang Yunxi's innocent words add to Xiao Fan's discomfort.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The story begins with the arrival of an elderly man, the Venerable One, at the residence of the Second Prince, Ji Xuanrui.
• The Second Prince, bedridden and near death, begs the Venerable One to end his suffering.
• The Venerable One reveals that the Great Void will rise and asks the Second Prince to help cultivate forces in the court.
• The Venerable One offers the Second Prince a gift from their Lord, restoring his vitality but with a time limit of one year.
• The Second Prince decides to bring his lover, Miss Su'er, to his side.

Character Developments

• The Second Prince, Ji Xuanrui, transitions from a dying cripple to a revitalized, yet sinister, figure.
• The Venerable One is revealed to be a powerful and mysterious figure, serving the Lord of the Great Void.
• The old steward, Uncle Zhao, shows reverence and obedience to the Second Prince.

Significant Themes

• The theme of life and death is prominent, with the Second Prince's near-death experience and subsequent revival.
• The power dynamics and intrigue within the imperial court are hinted at, with the Second Prince's brothers potentially being the future of Great Liang.
• The influence of the mysterious Lord and the Great Void is introduced, suggesting a looming threat or change.

Character Interactions

• The Second Prince and the Venerable One interact, with the Venerable One offering guidance and a gift, and the Second Prince showing devotion and eagerness to serve.
• The Second Prince orders Uncle Zhao to bring Miss Su'er to him, indicating a close relationship and his desire to have her by his side.
• The interactions between characters are brief but intense, revealing their respective loyalties and goals.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• A mysterious woman in black secretly visits the Second Prince in an abandoned courtyard. She embraces him and pledges absolute loyalty, agreeing to carry out any order without asking questions.
• The Second Prince appears physically and mentally corrupted, struggling to control a dangerous power within him. He hints that he and the woman, Su’er, will soon be able to remain together “forever,” suggesting a sinister plan involving death or transformation.
• At the Sacred Fire Altar, Xiao Fan is released after enduring six hours of spiritual torment while helping Dongfang Yunxi suppress the backlash from her Killing Intent.
• Exhausted and resentful, Xiao Fan leaves the altar. However, the Sacred Fire Sect followers treat him as a revered benefactor, bowing with sincere gratitude for what he has done.
• Dongfang Yunxi rests in a purification pool and reflects on the unusual comfort and dependence she experienced while using Xiao Fan’s vitality to heal herself. His treatment successfully neutralized the Killing Intent backlash, leaving her in an unusually gentle and contemplative mood.
• Xiao Fan returns home too late to visit the Armament Hall and arrange blades for his sister. He entertains his young sister Xiao Jinyu by letting her ride his horse.
• He then speaks with Xiao Jinlan, who is preparing to enter the Imperial Martial Academy. Xiao Fan offers to commission two blades as an enrollment gift, but she teasingly shows interest in taking his treasured Miao saber instead.

Character Developments

• The Second Prince is revealed to be increasingly frail and corrupted, with blackened blood and ominous power threatening his body. His desperate attachment to Su’er suggests he is preparing to make a drastic move.
• Su’er demonstrates complete devotion to the Second Prince, accepting any command and emotionally binding herself to him despite the danger.
• Xiao Fan remains sarcastic and resentful about being exploited by Dongfang Yunxi, but the sincere gratitude of the Sacred Fire followers softens his anger. Despite his exhaustion, he continues acting as a caring younger brother and family member.
• Dongfang Yunxi experiences an unfamiliar sense of warmth, safety, and emotional reliance after using Xiao Fan’s vitality. Her faint smile indicates that her feelings toward him may be becoming more complicated than simple exploitation or cooperation.
• Xiao Jinlan is shown as disciplined and ambitious, training constantly in preparation for the Imperial Martial Academy. Her interest in Xiao Fan’s saber also highlights her lively, teasing side.
• Xiao Jinyu is playful and energetic, quickly overcoming her fear of riding and forcing Xiao Fan to indulge her.

Significant Themes

• Devotion and sacrifice: Su’er’s willingness to obey the Second Prince contrasts with Xiao Fan’s unwanted but meaningful sacrifice for Dongfang Yunxi and the Sacred Fire Sect.
• Dependence and emotional attachment: Dongfang Yunxi begins to associate Xiao Fan with warmth, relief, and security, hinting at a developing bond.
• Corruption and impending danger: The Second Prince’s physical decay and mysterious power foreshadow a major threat or tragic transformation.
• Family affection and responsibility: Despite his suffering, Xiao Fan returns home, cares for his younger sister, and supports Xiao Jinlan’s future.
• Public gratitude versus private resentment: Xiao Fan feels mistreated by Dongfang Yunxi, yet is honored by the people whose cause he unknowingly helped, creating a contrast between his personal experience and his public reputation.

Character Interactions

• Second Prince and Su’er: Their intimate embrace and solemn exchange reveal deep mutual loyalty. Su’er accepts his command without question, while he struggles with both affection and the danger within him.
• Xiao Fan and the Sacred Fire followers: The followers silently bow to him, treating him as a hero and benefactor rather than mocking his exhausted condition.
• Xiao Fan and Dongfang Yunxi: Though they do not directly interact after the treatment, their connection deepens. He feels exploited, while she privately experiences comfort and possible dependence because of him.
• Xiao Fan and Xiao Jinyu: He patiently indulges her excitement by giving her a ride on his horse, revealing his affectionate and protective nature.
• Xiao Fan and Xiao Jinlan: He offers her two blades for her academy enrollment, while she jokes about claiming his prized Miao saber, showing their familiar sibling banter.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Fan suggests Xiao Jinlan change her weapon to a shorter, broader blade for better control.
• Xiao Jinlan shows Xiao Fan her self-designed blade drafts, which impress him.
• Xiao Fan gives Xiao Jinlan a God-Tempering Pill, allowing her to advance to the seventh rank.
• Xiao Fan studies the Black-Clad Guard Duty Guidelines, learning about their duties, restrictions, and intelligence reporting obligations.

Character Developments

• Xiao Jinlan: Overcomes her stubborn pride and accepts the God-Tempering Pill, crying out of gratitude and relief.
• Xiao Fan: Shows care and consideration for his sister, and demonstrates his strategic thinking by choosing the Black-Clad Guard over the Heaven Listening Platform.

Significant Themes

• The difficulty of obtaining resources for cultivation, especially for women, is highlighted through Xiao Jinlan's struggle to advance in rank.
• The vast powers and responsibilities of the Black-Clad Guard, as well as their restrictions and oversight, are explored.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Fan and Xiao Jinlan: Their sibling bond deepens as Xiao Fan supports and encourages his sister's martial path.
• Xiao Fan and the Azure Dragon Envoy: Xiao Fan finds a loophole in the Black-Clad Guard's intelligence reporting obligations, allowing him to interact with the Azure Dragon Envoy more frequently.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Fan successfully manifests [Manifest Dragon Scales] across his entire body, though briefly.
• He practices [Void Break] and attempts to merge his divine intent into his Miao saber.
• Xiao Fan copies the beast-controlling art from the [Beast-Controlling Bell] into [Myriad Arts Ruyi].
• He discovers that [Myriad Arts Ruyi] can contain up to three beast souls and can be upgraded using pure yang essence blood and high-purity crimson crystal.

Character Developments

• Xiao Fan's cultivation improves, allowing him to manifest dragon scales for a longer duration.
• He becomes more proficient in controlling his divine intent and begins to explore merging it with his Miao saber.
• Xiao Fan demonstrates his resourcefulness and adaptability by successfully copying an art into [Myriad Arts Ruyi].

Significant Themes

• The theme of growth and improvement is emphasized as Xiao Fan's cultivation and skills advance.
• Xiao Fan's resourcefulness and adaptability are highlighted as he finds creative solutions to his problems.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Fan interacts with his Miao saber, attempting to merge his divine intent with it.
• He communicates with [Myriad Arts Ruyi] through his thoughts, copying the beast-controlling art into it.
• Xiao Fan considers seeking advice from Li Mingyuan about arts he could copy into [Myriad Arts Ruyi].

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Fan, a new Grade A Black-Clad Guard, wakes up early and heads to the Shadow Pivot Court.
• He encounters Lin Fengche, the Right Tiger Attendant, who provokes him but receives no response.
• Xiao Fan finds no records of the Golden Glow Mountain robbery case in the archives.
• He tries to enter the Heaven Listening Platform to investigate further but is stopped by guards.

Character Developments

• Xiao Fan demonstrates his diligence and proactivity, unlike other Grade A officers who avoid reporting in person.
• Lin Fengche shows his hostility towards Xiao Fan, likely due to jealousy or rivalry.

Significant Themes

• Proactivity vs. Passivity: Xiao Fan's proactive approach to his duties contrasts with the passivity of other Grade A officers.
• Power Dynamics: The interaction between Xiao Fan and Lin Fengche highlights the power dynamics within the Black-Clad Guards.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Fan vs. Lin Fengche: Xiao Fan remains calm and collected in the face of Lin Fengche's provocation, showing his maturity and self-control.
• Xiao Fan vs. Guards: The guards at the Heaven Listening Platform are initially skeptical of Xiao Fan's eagerness to report, showing a hint of sympathy and warning.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Fan realizes something is amiss with Azure Dragon Envoy Qing Yao's isolation at the Heaven Listening Platform.
• Qing Yao lures Xiao Fan into her pavilion using a seductive voice and lightning restraints.
• Xiao Fan is subjected to an illusion created by Qing Yao's [Thousand Illusory Heart Demon] technique.
• Xiao Fan breaks free from the illusion and exposes Qing Yao's technique.

Character Developments

• Xiao Fan demonstrates quick wit and self-control, resisting Qing Yao's illusion.
• Qing Yao reveals her loneliness and desire for companionship through her illusion, hinting at a deeper emotional state.

Significant Themes

• The power of illusions and the mind's susceptibility to them.
• The dangers of underestimating one's opponents.
• The theme of loneliness and the desire for connection.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Fan and Qing Yao's interaction highlights their power dynamics and the tension between them.
• Xiao Fan's resistance to Qing Yao's illusion shows his growing strength and self-control.
• Qing Yao's shock and panic upon being exposed suggest a vulnerability she tries to hide.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Fan visits Qing Yao at the Heaven Listening Platform, seeking information about the Golden Glow Mountain ambush.
• Qing Yao tests Xiao Fan using her Thousand Illusory Heart Demon technique, revealing his subconscious desires.
• Qing Yao hints that the Golden Glow Mountain ambush may not be entirely settled, implying further danger.

Character Developments

• Xiao Fan: Shows resilience and self-control in resisting Qing Yao's illusion. He also demonstrates determination in pursuing the truth about the ambush, despite Qing Yao's warning.
• Qing Yao: Reveals a hint of vulnerability, suggesting she has a heavy inner demon. She also shows concern for Xiao Fan's safety, warning him about the ambush's unresolved aspects.

Significant Themes

• The power of subconscious desires and their influence on one's actions.
• The dangers of pursuing truth and justice, as hinted by Qing Yao's warning about the ambush.
• The consequences of exposure, as Xiao Fan fears the revelation of his subconscious desires.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Fan and Qing Yao: Their interaction is tense and filled with underlying tension. Qing Yao tests Xiao Fan, while he tries to hide his true intentions. Despite this, they show mutual respect and concern for each other.
• Xiao Fan and his subconscious desires: Xiao Fan's desires are revealed through Qing Yao's illusion, causing him embarrassment and fear of exposure.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Fan flees the Heaven Listening Platform, determined to investigate the Golden Glow Mountain case.
• He visits the Black-Clad Guard headquarters to find Liu Jiashan, but he's not there.
• Xiao Fan meets Gao Jun, who reveals that the entire Seventh Team is under investigation due to a botched A-class case involving the Grand Moon Sect.
• Xiao Fan learns that the Golden Glow Mountain case is only classified as C-class, with crucial details omitted from the file.

Character Developments

• Xiao Fan demonstrates his determination to uncover the truth about the Golden Glow Mountain case.
• Gao Jun shows loyalty and eagerness to please his superiors, but also reveals that he's aware of some irregularities in the case.

Significant Themes

• The corruption and bureaucracy within the Black-Clad Guard, as seen in the botched case and the Seventh Team's suspension.
• The importance of thorough investigation and the consequences of neglecting crucial details, as seen in the Golden Glow Mountain case.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Fan and Gao Jun: Xiao Fan questions Gao Jun about the Golden Glow Mountain case, and Gao Jun reveals what he knows, showing deference to Xiao Fan's authority.
• Xiao Fan and Liu Jiashan: Xiao Fan's visit to the barracks suggests he intends to confront Liu Jiashan about the case, indicating a potential power dynamic between them.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Fan, a Black-Clad Guard, finds the Bureau of Celestial Observation closed and visits the Armament Hall instead, where he arranges to forge two sabers using his sister's designs and Northern Sea Darksteel.
• He then heads to Cloud Rest Garden to warn Ji Xuanyuan about Golden Glow Mountain and to investigate Clear Ripple Garden, a residence gifted by the Crown Prince.
• At the garden, he encounters Steward Zhou, who gives off a sinister aura and triggers a warning in Xiao Fan's blood and qi, reminding him of Dong Zongxiang from the Bureau of Celestial Observation.
• Xiao Fan learns that the Second Prince is hosting a birthday banquet and suspects foul play.

Character Developments

• Xiao Fan demonstrates his growing intuition and caution, sensing something amiss with the Second Prince's banquet.
• Ji Xuanyuan shows dedication to teaching Yu Hao, despite the latter's struggles with basic martial arts.

Significant Themes

• Abnormal events hint at underlying sinister plots.
• Trust and loyalty are emphasized as Xiao Fan worries about Ji Xuanyuan's safety and his own potential implication.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Fan interacts with Uncle Fu, the old steward of Cloud Rest Garden, who shares information about the Second Prince's banquet.
• Xiao Fan observes Ji Xuanyuan teaching Yu Hao, highlighting their contrasting seriousness and struggle with basic martial arts.