Ch. 21When Arrogant, Be Arrogant
Summary: "When Arrogant, Be Arrogant"
Key Plot Points
- At an immortal sect gathering, Su Hao is publicly mocked and threatened by sect elders.
- A mysterious man suddenly appears, revealed as Xiao Wuji, an elder of the Spirit Creek Sect (a second-tier immortal sect). He claims Su Hao as his disciple.
- Elder Zhang of the Blazing Fire Immortal Sect begs for mercy; all present are shaken by the Spirit Creek Sect's prestige.
- The White Jade Immortal Gate elder offers Qi Haoyu, a famed local genius, as a better candidate for Xiao Wuji's discipleship.
- Qi Haoyu challenges Su Hao; Su Hao dismisses him as unworthy.
- Su Hao tests his spirit root on the Testing Stele and reveals a fifth-grade spirit root, far surpassing Qi Haoyu's fourth-grade.
- Su Hao then tests alchemy talent, producing a five-colored lotus — indicating Grade Five alchemist talent, a level rarely seen in the entire dynasty.
- Su Hao calmly claims he used only "three-tenths" of his strength, shocking everyone.
Character Developments
- Su Hao: Shows cool arrogance, unshaken by higher authorities; hides even greater potential beneath his apparent talent.
- Xiao Wuji: Grows more determined to take Su Hao as disciple; recognizes Su Hao's hidden depth.
- Qi Haoyu: His pride and confidence are completely crushed.
- Sect elders: Attitudes shift from contempt to fear and awe.
Themes
- Arrogance as power: Su Hao's refusal to humble himself is validated by his overwhelming talent.
- Hidden potential vs. reputation: Real genius surpasses established fame.
- Immortal sect hierarchy: Status determines worth, but true ability overturns it.
- The title's lesson: When arrogance is backed by strength, one should be fully arrogant.
Character Interactions
- Xiao Wuji intervenes on Su Hao's behalf, while Su Hao remains indifferent to his status.
- Qi Haoyu challenges Su Hao with disdain, only to be humiliated in public.
- Elders who previously mocked Su Hao are forced to witness his superiority and their own misjudgment.