Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• The author's novel didn't advance in the PK round and will go premium the next day.
• The author expresses gratitude to the editor, Liu Xing, for their support and guidance.

Character Developments

• The author (Hunzi) reveals insecurities about asking for support, showing vulnerability and humility.
• Hunzi demonstrates appreciation and respect for readers and the editor.

Significant Themes

• Gratitude and appreciation for support.
• Humility and vulnerability in seeking help.
• The importance of subscriptions and reader support for an author's success.

Character Interactions

• Hunzi interacts with the readers, expressing gratitude and asking for their support.
• Hunzi interacts with Editor Liu Xing, expressing thanks for their guidance and support.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Cheng decides to participate in the assessment matches, surprising Shen Qingshuang and leading He Zhiling and Li Sheng to follow suit.
• The assessment matches are scheduled for three days later, with Chen Cheng facing Li Sheng and Zhou Fang facing He Zhiling in the first round.
• Shen Qingshuang punishes Nan Zihan and Yun Shaou for their cowardice, barring them from the next assessment for a year.

Character Developments

• Chen Cheng displays decisiveness and courage, earning Shen Qingshuang's respect and admiration.
• Shen Qingshuang demonstrates her political acumen and authority as chief constable, settling scores and establishing her image.
• Zhou Fang reveals his martial cultivation and swordsmanship, warning Chen Cheng.

Significant Themes

• Ambition and advancement: Characters strive for official runner positions to improve their status and prospects.
• Power dynamics: Shen Qingshuang asserts her authority, while Zhou Fang attempts to assert his influence.
• Fairness and justice: Shen Qingshuang's actions aim to maintain fairness and justice, both in the assessment process and in punishing those who undermine it.

Character Interactions

• Shen Qingshuang and Chen Cheng: Shen Qingshuang is impressed by Chen Cheng's decisiveness and considers him a worthy candidate for cultivation by the Shen Family.
• Zhou Fang and Chen Cheng: Zhou Fang expresses his displeasure with Chen Cheng's participation in the assessment, warning him not to disappoint him.
• Liu Yunfeng and Chen Cheng: Liu Yunfeng invites Chen Cheng to his room to discuss matters, indicating a friendly relationship.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Cheng is confident about defeating Li Sheng and He Zhiling but is uncertain about Zhou Fang, who might be a great completion Skin-Tempering Realm martial artist skilled in swordsmanship.
• Liu Yunfeng reveals that Zhou Fang's martial strength is likely concealed, as the Zhou Family wouldn't have placed him in Ruyi Ward without a reason.
• Liu Yunfeng grants Chen Cheng three days' leave to prepare for the assessment, hinting at an important figure supporting him.
• Chen Cheng returns home, where Mu Xiaowan and Xi'er have been making an Iron Garment Layered Armor inner garment for him using refined iron plates.

Character Developments

• Chen Cheng has entered the Skin-Tempering Realm and is preparing for the assessment, showing growth in his martial abilities.
• Liu Yunfeng is revealed to have a connection with an important figure, possibly Lord Shen.
• Mu Xiaowan and Xi'er have been learning and applying new skills, such as sewing the Iron Garment Layered Armor.

Significant Themes

• The importance of preparation and understanding one's opponent, as seen in Chen Cheng's assessment preparations and Liu Yunfeng's observations of Zhou Fang.
• The role of hidden strengths and secrets, evident in the Zhou Family's placement of Zhou Fang and the important figure supporting Chen Cheng.

Character Interactions

• Chen Cheng and Liu Yunfeng discuss the assessment and Zhou Fang's martial strength, showing a mentor-mentee relationship.
• Chen Cheng, Mu Xiaowan, and Xi'er interact at home, demonstrating a caring and supportive family dynamic.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Cheng focuses on cultivating the Iron Garment Art and Black Bear Skin-Tempering Art during his rest days, making significant progress.
• The formal runner assessment begins at the Ruyi Ward Branch Office, with an unusually large crowd due to Zhou Xu's influence.
• Chen Cheng's first match is against Li Sheng, who provokes him into a fist technique duel. Chen Cheng agrees and immediately attacks.

Character Developments

• Chen Cheng's martial arts progress significantly: Iron Garment Art nears great mastery, and Black Bear Skin-Tempering Art nears minor mastery, enhancing his skin membrane and blood vitality.
• Li Sheng, a provocative and shameless runner, seeks to tire Chen Cheng out by challenging him to a fist technique duel.

Significant Themes

• Martial arts progress and competition
• Provocation and its consequences
• The influence of political figures (Zhou Xu) on local events

Character Interactions

• Chen Cheng and Li Sheng: Chen Cheng remains calm and composed despite Li Sheng's provocation, agreeing to the fist technique duel and immediately launching an attack.
• Zhou Xu and Shen Qingshuang: Zhou Xu supervises the assessment, inviting many influential figures, causing Shen Qingshuang concern about unexpected variables.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Cheng easily defeats Li Sheng, a skilled martial artist, in a few moves, demonstrating his formidable martial prowess.
• He Zhiling faces Zhou Fang in an assessment match. Despite holding his own initially, He Zhiling is ultimately defeated and severely injured when Zhou Fang increases his speed and targets non-vital areas before delivering a final, brutal strike.

Character Developments

• Chen Cheng: Proves himself a formidable martial artist, capable of defeating skilled opponents with ease.
• He Zhiling: Shows improvement in handling swift opponents but is ultimately no match for Zhou Fang's superior strength and ruthlessness.
• Zhou Fang: Reveals his true strength and cruelty, intentionally injuring He Zhiling and leaving him severely wounded.

Significant Themes

• Martial prowess and its role in societal status and power dynamics.
• The ruthlessness and cruelty that can accompany strength and power.
• The importance of understanding one's limits and knowing when to concede in a fight.

Character Interactions

• Chen Cheng and Zhou Fang: Chen Cheng's indifference enrages Zhou Fang, leading to a tense standoff between them.
• He Zhiling and Zhou Fang: He Zhiling initially holds his own against Zhou Fang but is ultimately overwhelmed by Zhou Fang's superior strength and ruthlessness.
• Jiang Yun and Chen Cheng: Jiang Yun witnesses Chen Cheng's growth and begins to reassess her initial disdain for him.
• Qian Bin and Luo Yunzhi: Discuss Chen Cheng's potential and Luo Yunzhi's hesitation in recruiting him for the Luo Family.
• Shen Qingshuang and Zhou Xu: Shen Qingshuang probes Zhou Xu about Zhou Fang's martial strength, but Zhou Xu refuses to reveal anything.

Key Plot Points and Events

• He Zhiling's arm is severed and he's severely injured during an assessment match with Zhou Fang.
• Zhou Fang justifies his actions, blaming He Zhiling for his own inadequacy.
• Shen Qingshuang tries to revoke Zhou Fang's assessment qualification, but Zhou Xu defends him.
• Zhou Xu manipulates the situation, turning public opinion in Zhou Fang's favor and proposing he advance directly.
• Chen Cheng is put on the spot to decide whether to forfeit the upcoming match against Zhou Fang.

Character Developments

• Zhou Fang: Shows ruthlessness and arrogance, injuring He Zhiling severely. He's cunning and manipulative, using the assessment rules to his advantage.
• Zhou Xu: Demonstrates political acumen, protecting Zhou Fang and turning the situation to the Zhou Family's advantage.
• Shen Qingshuang: Struggles to maintain fairness, but is outmaneuvered by Zhou Xu.
• Chen Cheng: Remains calm and thoughtful, considering his options against the formidable Zhou Fang.

Significant Themes

• Power Dynamics: The Zhou Family's influence and manipulation of the situation to protect one of their own.
• Fairness and Impartiality: The tension between upholding rules and maintaining fairness versus protecting powerful interests.
• Martial Strength vs. Skill: The importance of martial strength in the City Guard Office, with Zhou Fang's superior strength overshadowing He Zhiling's skill.

Character Interactions

• Zhou Xu and Zhou Fang: Zhou Xu protects and promotes Zhou Fang, showing his support for the Zhou Family's interests.
• Shen Qingshuang and Zhou Xu: They clash over the handling of Zhou Fang's actions, with Zhou Xu ultimately outmaneuvering Shen Qingshuang.
• Chen Cheng and Zhou Fang: Tension builds as Chen Cheng must decide whether to face Zhou Fang in the upcoming match.

Summary of Chapter 65: Saber Slays Zhou Fang

Key Plot Points and Events

• He Zhiling loses to Zhou Fang due to cowardice and defensive play.
• Chen Cheng decides to fight Zhou Fang despite warnings from friends.
• Zhou Fang underestimates Chen Cheng and becomes enraged, intending to kill him.
• Chen Cheng defeats Zhou Fang using his superior saber technique and strategy.
• Zhou Fang attempts to kill Chen Cheng using a hidden weapon and a surprise attack.
• Chen Cheng counters and beheads Zhou Fang with a Wind-Chasing Form.
• Zhou Xu tries to intervene but is stopped by Shen Qingshuang.

Character Developments

• He Zhiling shows cowardice and lack of fighting spirit, leading to his defeat.
• Chen Cheng displays courage, determination, and skill in his fight against Zhou Fang.
• Zhou Fang reveals his true colors as a coward and a cheater, using a hidden weapon to attempt murder.
• Zhou Xu shows his true nature as a power-hungry and ruthless individual, trying to kill Chen Cheng.
• Shen Qingshuang demonstrates her loyalty and impartiality as an official, stopping Zhou Xu's attempt to intervene.

Significant Themes

• Courage and cowardice: He Zhiling's cowardice leads to his defeat, while Chen Cheng's courage allows him to triumph.
• Skill and strategy: Chen Cheng's superior saber technique and strategic thinking help him defeat Zhou Fang.
• Dishonesty and ruthlessness: Zhou Fang's use of a hidden weapon and Zhou Xu's attempt to intervene highlight the dangers of dishonest and ruthless behavior.

Character Interactions

• Chen Cheng and Zhou Fang: Their fight showcases Chen Cheng's skill and Zhou Fang's cowardice and dishonesty.
• Chen Cheng and Liao San: Liao San warns Chen Cheng about the dangers of fighting Zhou Fang, but Chen Cheng remains determined.
• Zhou Xu and Shen Qingshuang: Their confrontation highlights the power dynamics between them and Shen Qingshuang's loyalty to her role as an official.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Cheng kills Zhou Fang during the constable assessment, leading to a conflict with Zhou Xu, the Zhou Family's representative.
• Zhou Xu attempts to arrest Chen Cheng, but Shen Qingshuang, the Ruyi Ward Branch Office's chief constable, intervenes and protects him.
• After the assessment, Shen Qingshuang invites Chen Cheng to her courtyard, where she expresses interest in him as a potential match for her maid, Xiao Qing.
• Chen Cheng, however, remains steadfast in his commitment to his betrothed, Mu Xiaowan, and declines Shen Qingshuang's offer.

Character Developments

• Chen Cheng: Proves his martial prowess and earns a promotion to formal constable. Shows loyalty to his betrothed, Mu Xiaowan, and refuses to consider other matches.
• Shen Qingshuang: Initially icy and stern, she shows a warmer side when considering potential matches for her maid. However, she becomes angry when Chen Cheng refuses her offer.
• Zhou Xu: Seeks revenge for his family member's death but is unable to act due to the presence of witnesses and Shen Qingshuang's intervention.

Significant Themes

• Loyalty and Commitment: Chen Cheng demonstrates his loyalty to his betrothed, Mu Xiaowan, even when faced with a more advantageous match.
• Power Dynamics: The conflict between the Zhou Family and the Ruyi Ward Branch Office highlights the power struggle within the constabulary.
• Martial Strength and Status: Chen Cheng's martial prowess earns him respect and protection, while Zhou Fang's hidden weapons and secret arts are seen as dishonorable.

Character Interactions

• Chen Cheng and Shen Qingshuang: Their interaction reveals Shen Qingshuang's interest in Chen Cheng as a potential match for her maid, while Chen Cheng remains steadfast in his commitment to Mu Xiaowan.
• Chen Cheng and Zhou Xu: Their conflict highlights the power struggle between the Zhou Family and the Ruyi Ward Branch Office, with Zhou Xu attempting to assert his authority and arrest Chen Cheng.
• Chen Cheng and Liu Yunfeng: Though not explicitly shown in this chapter, their relationship as superior and subordinate is implied, with Liu Yunfeng showing concern for Chen Cheng's well-being.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Cheng defeats Zhou Fang in the constable assessment, becoming an official constable.
• Zhou Fang is revealed to be a member of the Black Lotus Sect, a demonic sect using martial artists' essence and blood for cultivation.
• Chen Cheng is invited to become an offering retainer of Luo's Shop by Luo Yunzhi, the wife of Zheng Martial Hall's Old Master Zheng Hun.
• Chen Cheng accepts the offer, receiving a monthly stipend, a two-courtyard residence, and a cultivation slot at a Luo Family martial hall.

Character Developments

• Chen Cheng's martial prowess is recognized, leading to opportunities and protection from powerful figures.
• Li Sheng, after witnessing Chen Cheng's victory, regrets his earlier threats and fears retaliation.
• He Zhiling is severely injured and loses an arm, ending his constable career.

Significant Themes

• Martial prowess and its consequences: Chen Cheng's strength brings him opportunities but also enemies.
• Protection and alliances: Chen Cheng gains the protection of the Shen Family and the Luo Family, forging alliances that will help him navigate Linji City's political landscape.
• The struggle against demonic sects: The Black Lotus Sect's activities highlight the need for vigilance and cooperation among authorities.

Character Interactions

• Chen Cheng and Liu Yunfeng: Liu Yunfeng reveals the truth about the Black Lotus Sect and entrusts Chen Cheng with investigating their movements.
• Chen Cheng and Luo Yunzhi: Luo Yunzhi offers Chen Cheng a position as an offering retainer of Luo's Shop, providing him with resources and protection.
• Li Sheng and Chen Cheng: Li Sheng's fear of Chen Cheng's strength leads him to retract his earlier threats.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhou Hongjun, the Zhou Family head, is displeased with Zhou Fang's failure to secure a full City Guard officer position and his subsequent death.
• Zhou Xu reports to Zhou Hongjun about the events at the Ruyi Ward Branch Office and Chen Cheng's involvement.
• Zhou Hongjun decides to wait before eliminating Chen Cheng to avoid suspicion.
• Chen Cheng moves the Chen Family to a new residence in Willow-Branch Alley.
• Chen Cheng shares his concerns about the Zhou Family with Mu Xiaowan and decides to let her practice martial arts at the Luo Martial Hall.

Character Developments

• Zhou Hongjun: Shows his displeasure with Zhou Fang's failure and decides to eliminate Chen Cheng secretly later.
• Zhou Xu: Reports to Zhou Hongjun about the events and agrees to wait before eliminating Chen Cheng.
• Chen Cheng: Moves the family to a new residence and shares his concerns with Mu Xiaowan about the Zhou Family.
• Mu Xiaowan: Expresses her desire to practice martial arts at the Luo Martial Hall to help Chen Cheng.

Significant Themes

• Ambition and Power Struggle: The Zhou Family's ambition to rise further and their power struggle with other families.
• Protection and Provision: Chen Cheng's desire to protect Mu Xiaowan and provide for her, as well as Mu Xiaowan's desire to help Chen Cheng.

Character Interactions

• Zhou Hongjun and Zhou Xu: Zhou Xu reports to Zhou Hongjun about the events and they discuss their plans.
• Chen Cheng and Mu Xiaowan: Chen Cheng shares his concerns with Mu Xiaowan and they discuss her practicing martial arts.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Cheng and Mu Xiaowan enter the inner city, noting its stark contrast to the outer city.
• They arrive at Zheng Martial Hall, which is grand and imposing.
• Gongsun Rou, the First Madam, meets them and tests Mu Xiaowan's martial aptitude.
• Gongsun Rou demonstrates her sword techniques, leaving everyone in awe, including Chen Cheng, who gains insights for his Chasing Wind Saber Technique.
• Gongsun Rou asks Mu Xiaowan to touch a boulder, which crumbles into powder at her touch, indicating her exceptional martial aptitude.

Character Developments

• Chen Cheng: Realizes the potential of sword intent after watching Gongsun Rou's techniques.
• Mu Xiaowan: Demonstrates her extraordinary martial aptitude when she touches the boulder.
• Gongsun Rou: Shows her formidable strength and skill, as well as her interest in taking Mu Xiaowan as her disciple.

Significant Themes

• The disparity between the inner and outer cities reflects the social hierarchy and wealth gap in Linji City.
• The power and potential of sword intent are highlighted through Gongsun Rou's techniques.
• Mu Xiaowan's exceptional martial aptitude is a testament to her potential as a martial artist.

Character Interactions

• Chen Cheng and Mu Xiaowan: They support each other in their martial pursuits, with Mu Xiaowan showing concern for Chen Cheng's future prospects.
• Gongsun Rou and Mu Xiaowan: Gongsun Rou is intrigued by Mu Xiaowan's martial aptitude and offers to take her as a disciple.
• Gongsun Rou and Chen Cheng: Gongsun Rou indirectly praises Chen Cheng's comprehension skills but implies that his martial aptitude is ordinary.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gongsun Rou offers to take Mu Xiaowan as her disciple, which Mu Xiaowan accepts after consulting Chen Cheng.
• Chen Cheng learns about Zheng Martial Hall's strength and marriage alliances from Luo Yunzhi.
• Chen Cheng's Chasing Wind Saber Technique cultivation progresses significantly after witnessing Gongsun Rou's sword techniques.
• Liu Yunfeng arranges for Chen Cheng to serve under Su Chenglin, and Su Chenglin plans to nurture Chen Cheng as his successor.
• Chen Cheng starts cultivating martial arts under Mu Zhenhai, the training constable of the Ruyi Ward Branch Office.

Character Developments

• Mu Xiaowan becomes Gongsun Rou's disciple, gaining access to profound martial arts techniques.
• Chen Cheng's martial arts skill improves, and he gains recognition as the "first runner" among the runners.
• Su Chenglin shows interest in nurturing Chen Cheng as his successor.
• Mu Zhenhai, the training constable, takes an interest in Chen Cheng's saber technique.

Significant Themes

• The importance of martial arts cultivation and mentorship in the story's world.
• The power dynamics and alliances within Linji City's martial world, as seen through the lens of Zheng Martial Hall and the City Guard Office.

Character Interactions

• Gongsun Rou and Mu Xiaowan: Gongsun Rou takes Mu Xiaowan as her disciple, showing interest in her talent and potential.
• Chen Cheng and Liu Yunfeng: Liu Yunfeng arranges for Chen Cheng to serve under Su Chenglin, showing his continued support for Chen Cheng's growth.
• Chen Cheng and Su Chenglin: Su Chenglin expresses his intention to nurture Chen Cheng as his successor, showing his confidence in Chen Cheng's abilities.
• Chen Cheng and Mu Zhenhai: Mu Zhenhai takes an interest in Chen Cheng's saber technique, showing his willingness to guide and mentor him.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Cheng demonstrates his Chasing Wind Saber Technique at the training ground, impressing the constables and Mu Zhenhai.
• Mu Zhenhai performs the Chasing Wind Saber Technique, revealing his extraordinary comprehension and depth of skill.
• Mu Zhenhai guides Chen Cheng in practicing his saber technique, leading to rapid progress in Chen Cheng's cultivation.
• Chen Cheng receives numerous gifts and silver from influential figures in Ruyi Ward, totaling over four hundred taels.

Character Developments

• Chen Cheng: Shows humility and eagerness to learn, making significant progress in his saber technique under Mu Zhenhai's guidance. He also becomes more aware of the dangers and benefits of his growing power and influence.
• Mu Zhenhai: Reveals his exceptional skill and teaching abilities. He becomes increasingly invested in Chen Cheng's cultivation, seeing great potential in him.

Significant Themes

• The importance of diligent practice and humility in martial arts cultivation.
• The influence of power and martial strength on one's status and the dangers that come with it.
• The value of a good teacher and mentor in one's growth and development.

Character Interactions

• Chen Cheng and Mu Zhenhai: Their master-disciple relationship deepens as Mu Zhenhai guides Chen Cheng in his saber technique, leading to rapid progress and mutual respect.
• Chen Cheng and various influential figures in Ruyi Ward: Chen Cheng accepts their gifts and invitations, solidifying his status and connections in the ward.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Cheng treats Old Master Mu and Su Chenglin to drinks and secretly gives them silver, reciprocating their kindness.
• Mu Chuan, Su Chenglin's previous successor candidate, is now overshadowed by Chen Cheng.
• Chen Cheng's new district is peaceful but dangerous due to the presence of the Big Dipper Gang and desperate jianghu outlaws.
• Chen Cheng visits Mu Xiaowan at Zheng Martial Hall, where they express their longing for each other. Gongsun Rou, Mu Xiaowan's master, is strict but well-intentioned.
• Chen Cheng cultivates the Brown Bear Skin-Tempering Art to the point of having skin as hard as copper. He realizes that cultivating both an internal-breath method and a body-tempering method together reinforces their effects.
• Chen Cheng learns that a major case of an entire family being wiped out, the Zhao Family, occurred in his squad's district. The South District Thirteen Thieves are suspected to be behind the crime.

Character Developments

• Chen Cheng: He continues to improve his martial skills, reaching the point where his skin is as hard as copper. He also understands the benefits of cultivating both an internal-breath method and a body-tempering method together. He remains dedicated to his duties and is aware of the dangers in his new district.
• Mu Xiaowan: She is adapting well to life at Zheng Martial Hall and is learning swordsmanship from Gongsun Rou. She misses Chen Cheng and looks forward to seeing him.
• Mu Chuan: He is no longer the primary successor candidate for constable captain, having been surpassed by Chen Cheng.
• Su Chenglin: He is considering retirement but has not stepped down yet. He is still influential in the City Guard Office.

Significant Themes

• Mutual benefit and mutual aid: This is the way of human relationships in the City Guard Office, as seen in Chen Cheng's interactions with Old Master Mu and Su Chenglin.
• The importance of diligence and hard work: Chen Cheng's rapid progress in his martial arts is a testament to his dedication and effort.
• The dangers of jianghu outlaws: The Big Dipper Gang and the South District Thirteen Thieves pose significant threats to the people of Ruyi Ward.

Character Interactions

• Chen Cheng and Old Master Mu: They have a mutually beneficial relationship. Chen Cheng treats Old Master Mu to drinks and gives him silver, while Old Master Mu asks Chen Cheng to look after the younger members of the Mu Family.
• Chen Cheng and Su Chenglin: They also have a mutually beneficial relationship. Chen Cheng joins Su Chenglin's command, and in return, Su Chenglin paves the way for Chen Cheng's future.
• Chen Cheng and Mu Xiaowan: They express their longing for each other during Chen Cheng's visit to Zheng Martial Hall. Their relationship is strengthened by their shared affection.
• Chen Cheng and Mu Chuan: Mu Chuan is no longer the primary successor candidate, and Chen Cheng is now the most promising candidate for the next constable captain. Their positions have reversed.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• A wanted notice is issued for the South District Thirteen Thieves, Bu Qi and Lou Hui, offering a substantial reward for their capture or death.
• The City Guard Office begins a large-scale search for the thieves, involving all constables and runners, including Chen Cheng's night shift.
• The search expands to all four outer districts and eventually involves the Protectorate Army.
• Chen Cheng and his group encounter two suspicious individuals who claim to be courtyard guards. One of them attempts to ambush Chen Cheng, but he is swiftly decapitated.

Character Developments

• Chen Cheng remains vigilant and cautious, showing leadership among his fellow runners.
• Mu Chuan and other runners grow more comfortable around Chen Cheng, seeing him as a leader and protector.
• Chen Cheng receives a signal arrow from Su Chenglin, given by Lady Shen, to summon Shen Family experts for protection.

Significant Themes

• The power of martial arts and the importance of strength in society.
• The struggle between law enforcement and criminal elements, with the City Guard Office trying to maintain order amidst the Black Lotus Sect's influence.
• The theme of vigilance and preparedness, as Chen Cheng warns his fellow runners not to let their guard down.

Character Interactions

• Chen Cheng interacts with his fellow runners, displaying a mix of authority and camaraderie.
• Chen Cheng's relationship with Su Chenglin and Lady Shen is further established, with Su Chenglin providing him with protection and Lady Shen arranging for Shen Family experts to watch over him.
• Chen Cheng's encounter with the suspicious individuals highlights his quick thinking and reflexes, as well as his willingness to protect his subordinates.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Cheng kills Bu Qi, the leader of the South District Thirteen Thieves, in self-defense.
• Lou Hui, the second-in-command, attacks. Chen Cheng and Mu Chuan fight but struggle against Lou Hui's perfected blade technique.
• Chen Cheng calls for reinforcements using signal arrows.
• A mysterious black-clad man, Ding Mo, arrives, revealing he's from Wind-Rain Tower.
• Yan Jian, a constable captain, appears and engages Ding Mo in a fierce duel.
• Chen Cheng and Mu Chuan escape, leading Lou Hui into a lime powder trap set by Chen Cheng. Lou Hui is killed.

Character Developments

• Chen Cheng: Proves his strength and cunning,

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Cheng and Mu Chuan are ambushed by the South District Thirteen Thieves, led by Bu Qi and Lou Hui.
• Chen Cheng kills Bu Qi, and they flee, pursued by Lou Hui.
• Chen Cheng uses a Perfection-level blade technique to kill Lou Hui, concealing his true strength.
• The Wind-Rain Tower assassin Ding Mo is revealed to have been sent to kill Chen Cheng.
• Chief Bailiff Shen Qingshuang and Head Bailiff Su Chenglin arrive, followed by a squad of bailiffs.
• The bodies of Bu Qi and Lou Hui are discovered, and the night patrol bailiffs are found killed.
• Shen Qingshuang praises Chen Cheng's actions and promises rewards.

Character Developments

• Chen Cheng: Proves his tactical prowess and ability to remain calm under pressure, concealing his true strength. He also demonstrates his loyalty and humility.
• Mu Chuan: Shows bravery and loyalty, supporting Chen Cheng throughout the events.
• Shen Qingshuang: Recognizes Chen Cheng's potential and decides to nurture him, showing her strategic thinking and fairness.
• Yan Jian: Feels resentment for not being praised by Shen Qingshuang and shows off his strength, but also demonstrates his loyalty to her.

Significant Themes

• Concealment and Revealing of Strength: Chen Cheng's strategy of "conceal seven, reveal three" highlights the importance of hiding one's true abilities to avoid unnecessary trouble.
• Loyalty and Bravery: Mu Chuan and Chen Cheng display loyalty to each other and bravery in the face of danger.
• Recognition and Nurturing of Talent: Shen Qingshuang recognizes Chen Cheng's potential and decides to nurture him, showing the importance of identifying and cultivating talent.

Character Interactions

• Chen Cheng and Mu Chuan: They work together and support each other throughout the events, demonstrating a strong bond.
• Chen Cheng and Yan Jian: Chen Cheng is grateful for Yan Jian's help, but Yan Jian feels resentment for not being praised and subtly belittles Chen Cheng.
• Shen Qingshuang and Chen Cheng/Yan Jian: Shen Qingshuang praises and rewards Chen Cheng for his actions, while also acknowledging Yan Jian's efforts, showing fairness and strategic thinking.