Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Shun receives a jade tablet containing detailed regulations, a storage space, and communication with the Imperial Academy's central hub.
• He learns about the Imperial Academy's ten-year cultivation arrangement: four years of study, three years of tempering, and three years of 'Seeking the Dao Through Antiquity' in an illusion realm.
• The graduation requirement involves diverging from the official history and shattering the illusion realm.
• The Imperial Academy is built upon the ruins of the Ancient Heavenly Court, discovered by Emperor Gan.

Character Developments

• Li Shun demonstrates his determination and courage by confronting the Confucian School doctor about his negligence.
• The Confucian School doctor shows a sharp and stern demeanor, initially appearing lazy but revealing a keen awareness when awakened.

Significant Themes

• The pursuit of knowledge and the Dao.
• The responsibility of teachers and students in shaping the future.
• The Imperial Academy's mission to resist the Outer Gods and save the world.
• The connection between the Imperial Academy and the Ancient Heavenly Court.

Character Interactions

• Li Shun confronts the Confucian School doctor about his sleeping during class, showing respect but also challenging his neglect of duty.
• The doctor initially rebukes Li Shun but is later confronted with Li Shun's determination and righteousness.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Shun's first encounter with his teacher, Han Qi, involves a test of his understanding and backbone.
• Han Qi tests Li Shun's views on Confucian sages, leading to a profound exchange.
• Han Qi presents Li Shun with various Confucian School branches to choose from, including the secretive and extreme [Sole Righteousness].

Character Developments

• Li Shun: Shows resilience and unyielding spirit in the face of pressure. Reveals his progressive views on Confucian sages and his willingness to lead if no one else will.
• Han Qi: Initially stern and intimidating, he reveals a more approachable side after Li Shun's response. He encourages Li Shun to explore different Confucian School branches.

Significant Themes

• Progressive Views: Li Shun's views on Confucian sages challenge the traditional orthodoxy, suggesting a theme of progressive thought.
• Extremism vs. Orthodoxy: The introduction of [Sole Righteousness] contrasts its extreme views with the more peaceful and upright ideals of other Confucian School branches.

Character Interactions

• Li Shun and Han Qi: Their interaction starts with tension but evolves into a more open and respectful exchange. Han Qi comes to appreciate Li Shun's backbone and encourages him to explore different paths.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Shun reads the Sole Righteousness Scripture of the Confucian School's [Sole Righteousness] branch, which advocates for extreme measures to maintain righteousness and eliminate evil.
• Reading the scripture causes Li Shun's Liqi to become unstable due to the conflicting principles with his current cultivation branch, [Spring-Autumn Brush].
• Li Shun decides to ask Han Qi about this issue the next day.

Character Developments

• Li Shun's resolve and determination are tested as he faces the temptation and potential danger of the Sole Righteousness branch.
• Han Qi is revealed to be knowledgeable and possibly aware of the potential risks of the Sole Righteousness branch.

Significant Themes

• The conflict between different interpretations of Confucian teachings and their impact on cultivation.
• The temptation and potential danger of extreme ideologies.
• The importance of a stable foundation in cultivation.

Character Interactions

• Li Shun interacts with Han Qi, seeking guidance about the Sole Righteousness branch.
• Li Shun encounters another Confucian School disciple at the training ground, indicating that there are other cultivators in the school.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Shun meets Chen Mo, a Celestial Phenomenon Realm cultivator and disciple of the Investigate Things, Gain Knowledge lineage.
• Han Qi, a Profound Insight Realm cultivator, reveals he can analyze and unravel doubts on Li Shun's cultivation path.
• Han Qi explains that Li Shun's talent lies in the Sole Righteousness lineage, not his current Spring-Autumn Brush lineage.

Character Developments

• Li Shun learns about Han Qi's exceptional comprehension and understanding of the path ahead, despite being stuck at Profound Insight.
• Li Shun realizes Han Qi's regret that Li Shun's talent is not being nurtured in the right lineage.

Significant Themes

• The importance of choosing the right path or lineage in cultivation.
• The concept of 'Unity of Text and Spirit' in the Confucian School.
• The regret and acceptance of missed opportunities in cultivation.

Character Interactions

• Han Qi and Chen Mo engage in a lengthy discussion about the Dao, resembling a debate between equals.
• Li Shun and Han Qi discuss Li Shun's cultivation path and the right lineage for him.
• Han Qi expresses regret that Li Shun's talent is not being nurtured in the Sole Righteousness lineage.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Shun expresses his surprise at Han Qi's demeanor, unlike the extreme stance of the Sole Righteousness lineage.
• Han Qi reveals the lineage's near-extinction and the court's suppression of its ideals.
• Han Qi shares the [Jade-Attacking Method] to help Li Shun integrate other schools' theories without damaging his foundation.
• Han Qi explains the purpose of the Imperial Academy and the Hundred Schools in resisting Outer Gods.
• Han Qi discusses the Eclectic School's limitations in cultivating multiple lineages.

Character Developments

• Li Shun demonstrates curiosity and eagerness to learn, asking insightful questions.
• Han Qi shows profound wisdom, understanding, and patience in guiding Li Shun.

Significant Themes

• The struggle against Outer Gods and the importance of human thought and knowledge in resistance.
• The role of the Hundred Schools and their scriptures as anchors against spiritual corruption.
• The limitations and challenges of cultivating multiple lineages.

Character Interactions

• Han Qi mentors Li Shun, sharing knowledge and guiding his understanding.
• Li Shun seeks clarification from Han Qi, showing respect and eagerness to learn.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Shun is convinced by Han Qi's intellectual prowess and regrets Han Qi's cultivation stagnation due to heavenly will.
• Li Shun shares his experiences with Ancient Web, who advises him to avoid Outer Gods before reaching the Creation Realm.
• Li Shun learns that the Imperial Academy is part of the Thunder Jade Palace from the Ancient Heavenly Court, and the Thunder Pool is still active.
• Ancient Web warns Li Shun that using Threefold Self-Reflection in this place may leave traces and expose him.

Character Developments

• Li Shun: Recognizes Han Qi's talent, learns about the Thunder Jade Palace, and becomes cautious about using Threefold Self-Reflection.
• Han Qi: Shows exceptional intellect and understanding of cultivation, but is frustrated by his cultivation plateau.
• Ancient Web: Provides rational advice, reveals information about the Thunder Jade Palace, and warns Li Shun about potential risks.

Significant Themes

• The power of intellect and knowledge (Han Qi's prowess)
• The limitations of cultivation and the influence of heavenly will
• The dangers of encountering Outer Gods and the importance of caution
• The potential consequences of using powerful abilities like Threefold Self-Reflection

Character Interactions

• Li Shun and Han Qi: Li Shun is impressed by Han Qi's intellect and regrets his cultivation situation, while Han Qi is dismissive of Li Shun's concern.
• Li Shun and Ancient Web: Li Shun shares his experiences and seeks advice, while Ancient Web provides rational guidance and warns Li Shun about potential risks.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Shun learns that the Imperial Academy might have deciphered the traces left by his repeated use of 'Threefold Self-Reflection'.
• Ancient Web reveals that remnants of divine power from the Ancient Heavenly Court linger in the Imperial Academy.
• Li Shun discovers a Thunder Pool, a remnant of the Ancient Heavenly Court's Thunder Jade Palace, at the center of the Imperial Academy.

Character Developments

• Li Shun feels a sense of dread, realizing that his actions might have been noticed by the Imperial Academy.
• He decides to avoid using 'Threefold Self-Reflection' unless necessary while studying at the Imperial Academy.

Significant Themes

• The consequences of Li Shun's repeated use of 'Threefold Self-Reflection' and the potential danger it poses.
• The lingering divine power from the Ancient Heavenly Court and its connection to the Great Qian World.

Character Interactions

• Li Shun interacts with Ancient Web, who provides him with crucial information and a secret art to sense the lingering divine power.
• Li Shun's internal monologue reveals his thoughts and concerns about his situation.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Shun absorbs a wisp of Divine Power, reminiscent of the aura he felt in the Primordial Illusion Realm.
• The Ancient Web reveals that this Divine Power can be used to return to the Primordial Continent, challenging Li Shun's skepticism.
• Li Shun learns that opening a Primordial Illusion Realm with Divine Power requires a specific temporal coordinate or an item from that time, reducing the risk of Outer God invasions.
• The Ancient Web refuses to reveal the ritual details until Li Shun reaches the Creation Realm, stating that his current divine soul cannot withstand the information intensity.

Character Developments

• Li Shun demonstrates patience and determination in absorbing the Divine Power.
• He shows curiosity and critical thinking in questioning the Ancient Web's revelations.
• The Ancient Web displays knowledge of the past and understanding of the present, acting as a guide to Li Shun.

Significant Themes

• The power of Divine Power and its connection to the Primordial Continent.
• The dangers and benefits of opening Primordial Illusion Realms.
• The limitations of Li Shun's current abilities and the need for growth.

Character Interactions

• Li Shun interacts with the Ancient Web, questioning, learning, and sometimes challenging its revelations.
• Li Shun reflects on his experiences and draws connections, showing his analytical skills.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Shun learns about potential hidden powerhouses in Great Qian from Ancient Web.
• He discovers that Great Qian's simplicity is deceptive, with a complex foundation and power.
• Li Shun begins learning the divine ability 'Through the Present to the Ancient' from Ancient Web.
• An Outer God's trace passes over the Imperial Academy Estate, causing a commotion.

Character Developments

• Li Shun: Becomes more aware of Great Qian's hidden aspects and begins learning a complex divine ability.
• Ancient Web: Provides insights into Great Qian's history and the nature of Chaos, revealing knowledge about Outer Gods.

Significant Themes

• The hidden power and complexity of Great Qian.
• The vastness and mystery of Chaos, and the Outer Gods within it.
• The potential reasons behind Outer Gods' invasions of Great Qian.

Character Interactions

• Li Shun and Ancient Web: Li Shun learns from Ancient Web about Great Qian's history and the divine ability. Ancient Web shares knowledge about Chaos and Outer Gods, breaking its previous silence on the topic.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Ancient Web explains that Outer Gods descend upon worlds due to boredom, curiosity, and the need for safe havens to survive Chaos' dangers.
• Li Shun learns that Outer Gods compress their power when entering worlds to avoid destruction and can send their influence repeatedly over millions of years.
• Li Shun becomes dispirited after understanding the true nature and power of Outer Gods, questioning the purpose of cultivation.

Character Developments

• Li Shun: Gains a deeper understanding of Outer Gods, leading to temporary disillusionment with cultivation. He also demonstrates keen senses, noticing changes in the environment.
• Han Qi: Shows concern for Li Shun's mental state and uses a light experiment to help Li Shun understand the impact of Outer Gods on emotions.

Significant Themes

• Power and Mortality: The vast power of Outer Gods contrasts with the fragility of humans, highlighting the theme of power dynamics and mortality.
• Cultivation and Purpose: Li Shun's temporary loss of motivation in cultivation raises questions about its purpose and meaning in the face of overwhelming Outer God power.

Character Interactions

• Li Shun and the Ancient Web: Li Shun learns about Outer Gods' motivations from the Ancient Web, leading to introspection and disillusionment.
• Li Shun and Han Qi: Han Qi notices Li Shun's dispirited state and uses a light experiment to help Li Shun understand and process his feelings about Outer Gods.

Summary: “The Puppet’s Killing Intent Stirs”

1. Key Plot Points

• Li Shun, immersed in darkness, nearly loses hope. Han Qi delivers a lesson: life is a fragile glimmer against cosmic darkness—but its resistance to extinction gives life meaning.
• The fading light in Li Shun’s vision blazes one final time, symbolizing the value of defending life. Li Shun regains his resolve and resumes studying the [Sole Righteousness] technique under Han Qi.
• Meanwhile, in the Martial World (Li Shun’s inner world), martial artists train desperately behind a protective barrier. The sacred tree—grown from Fang Han’s severed arm—heals them but secretly extracts their blood essence to grow stronger.
• The puppet Fang Han, in managed mode, oversees the world and harvests Mystic Yellow Qi, which has grown from ~150 to over 400 wisps per year.
• Without warning, puppet Fang Han stirs with violent, autonomous killing intent—remembering “enmity of nine lifetimes.” This triggers apocalyptic signs: blood clouds, scarlet lightning, and uncontrolled killing intent sweeping across the world.
• Li Shun notices, immediately takes control of the puppet, and dismisses the incident to Han Qi as residual interference from the Outer God’s fluctuations.

2. Character Developments

• Li Shun: Overcomes his earlier despair and listlessness through Han Qi’s teaching; his sense of purpose and vitality is restored. He remains devoted to mastering [Sole Righteousness].
• Puppet Fang Han: Shows signs of independent emotional stirring—an ominous development. Despite being a managed puppet, buried rage and vengeance begin to surface, hinting at lingering will or corruption.
• Han Qi: Acts as mentor, grounding Li Shun with philosophical clarity and steadying him after the disturbance.

3. Significant Themes

• Meaning of life and resistance: Life is transient and insignificant compared to cosmic entities, but the act of defending life gives it profound meaning.
• Sacrifice and vitality: The martial artists unknowingly feed the sacred tree; growth is bought with their life essence—an echo of exploitation versus salvation.
• Puppet/human boundary: Fang Han’s sudden killing intent raises questions about artificial will, suppressed vengeance, and the danger of leftover consciousness.
• Control vs. autonomy: Li Shun must manage his inner world carefully, but something is beginning to resist his control.

4. Character Interactions

• Han Qi and Li Shun: Teacher-student dynamic; Han Qi guides Li Shun through a philosophical crisis and later questions the abrupt disturbance, showing attentiveness.
• Li Shun and puppet Fang Han: Li Shun acts as the puppeteer, but Fang Han’s flicker of independent killing intent creates a subtle power struggle—Li Shun is forced to reassert dominance.
• The sacred tree and martial artists: A parasitic yet healing relationship; the tree gives life while quietly feeding on their blood and soul energy—functional but ominous.

1. Key Plot Points & Events

• Li Shun investigates the source of puppet Fang Han’s restless killing intent.
• He learns the rage comes not from the puppet’s will, but from a Creation Realm that was stripped from Fang Han before death.
• The Fan Clan used Fang Han’s blood essence to take his Creation Realm and gift that "talent" to Shao Lingxu, in exchange for Fang Han’s cousin Fan Cheng becoming Shao Lingxu’s disciple in the Sacred Capital.
• Li Shun’s own mindset has been subtly reshaped by studying the Sole Righteousness Confucian branch, which affects his puppets. Fang Han alone develops an autonomous urge for revenge.
• Li Shun decides to embrace that vengeance, mentally marking the Fan Clan and Shao Lingxu as targets.
• He begins preparing by visiting the Yin-Yang Daoist Grounds in the Imperial Academy, a place of dual-cultivation and gossip, to gather information about Shao Lingxu.
• At the grounds, he hears complaints that the Yin-Yang School has degenerated into mere male-female dual cultivation, losing the true cosmic meaning of Yin-Yang.

2. Character Developments

• Li Shun: His values are visibly changing through study; he sincerely embraces Sole Righteousness ideals, and this leads him to accept revenge as righteous duty. He becomes more proactive and strategic rather than merely reactive.
• Fang Han (puppet): Though dead, his lingering grievance—complicated by his stolen Creation Realm—surfaces as an independent desire to enact revenge, showing the deep connection between Li Shun’s mind and his puppets.
• Han Qi: Recognizes Li Shun’s pursuit of pleasure at the Yin-Yang grounds and knowingly lets it pass, suggesting a mentor-like understanding.

3. Significant Themes

• Vengeance and righteousness: Li Shun frames revenge as a moral necessity: "If vengeance is not extinguished, righteousness cannot stand."
• Changing identity through knowledge: Exposure to Confucian Sole Righteousness gradually alters Li Shun’s worldview, demonstrating how study and reflection shape a person.
• Connection between master and puppet: The master’s inner shifts can awaken or amplify the unresolved desires of his puppets/past lives.
• Decline of tradition: The Yin-Yang School’s reduction to sensual dual cultivation parallels the loss of deeper philosophical meaning.

4. Character Interactions

• Li Shun and Han Qi: Han Qi does not question Li Shun’s past odd behavior, grants him leave to visit the Yin-Yang Daoist Grounds, and gives a knowing, slightly amused smile—implying he mistakes Li Shun’s purpose for romantic pursuit.
• Li Shun and unnamed Yin-Yang disciples: He observes them without drawing attention, while overhearing their talk of romance and one man’s angry critique that modern Yin-Yang practice has lost the true Dao.

Summary: Chapter of "True Gentleman of Ying Province"

Key Plot Points

• Li Shun and Wang Zheng discuss the Yin-Yang School's structure within Great Qian, with Wang Zheng revealing that besides the dominant [Grand Primordial Unity] lineage (led by Ling Xuanji), several niche branches exist, each headed by Creation Realm cultivators (e.g., Shao Lingxu of [Five Virtues Transformation], Du Chong of [Waxing-and-Waning Numerology]).
• Wang Zheng explains that Ling Xuanji's lineage allegedly produced many Creation Realm cultivators through "selfless dedication"—a scandalous rumor implying her use of Yin-Yang Dual Cultivation.
• Wang Zheng recounts how the [Five Virtues Transformation] doctrine legitimized Great Qian's founding using the "Five Virtues circulate, mutually generating/restraining" theory but became an embarrassment once the dynasty sought permanent rule, since it implied dynasties inevitably change. It was gradually pushed out of court but not forbidden.
• Li Shun learns Shao Lingxu lives in seclusion among commoners, regulating earth veins to protect the region—unlike typical haughty Creation Realm experts.
• Qiu Tianchi emerges from Ling Xuanji's courtyard, his demeanor utterly transformed from impatient/frivolous to steady and solemn. He praises Ling Xuanji's profound Yin-Yang Dao and departs with composed steps.
• Li Shun asks if the Yin-Yang Dual Cultivation Art can reshape one's temperament. Wang Zheng privately (via sound transmission) explains Qiu Tianchi was simply a virgin before—the "transformation" was from boy to man.

Character Developments

• Qiu Tianchi: Undergoes a visible change in bearing—loses his impatience and frivolity, becomes composed and weighty after his session with Ling Xuanji.
• Wang Zheng: Shows extensive knowledge of Yin-Yang School affairs despite being a Legalist successor; reveals a pragmatic, somewhat mocking sense of humor while retaining respect for figures like Shao Lingxu.
• Li Shun: Continues intelligence-gathering; recalls the graceful phantom of Ling Xuanji glimpsed in Bing Province; remains skeptical, noting the Yin-Yang Mutual-Birth Art may hold deeper mysteries than Wang Zheng's "virgin" explanation suggests.

Significant Themes

• Political Orthodoxy vs. Political Expediency: Doctrines like Five Virtues rise when useful (legitimizing conquest) and are sidelined when inconvenient (implying dynastic decline).
• Appearances vs. Reality: Qiu Tianchi's "spiritual transformation" is mocked as mere sexual awakening; rumors about Ling Xuanji's methods blur truth and scandal.
• The Power of Hidden Wisdom: The Yin-Yang School's influence rests on secret arts and Creation Realm figures living humbly vs. grand public reputations.

Character Interactions

• Li Shun ↔ Wang Zheng: A deepening exchange—Li Shun tests Wang Zheng's knowledge, Wang Zheng freely shares insider lore; their rapport blends intellectual respect with subtle mutual probing.
• Wang Zheng ↔ Li Shun (private): Wang Zheng's crude jest about Qiu Tianchi contrasts with Li Shun's more cautious, skeptical take.
• Qiu Tianchi ↔ Crowd: His solemn, sincere praise of Ling Xuanji and departure draws knowing jeers from the crowd; his genuine change of character earns baffled reactions.

Key Details

• Li Shun suspects the Yin-Yang Art's effects may be more than just sexual—though he privately decides not to test it himself, preferring the "grand theory of vengeance" of [Sole Righteousness].

Key Plot Points & Events

• At Shang Qingqiu’s estate, a new round of “lucky ones” is chosen for the Yin-Yang Dual Cultivation Art. Li Shun remains coldly unperturbed while others grow frenzied.
• Li Shun learns Shang Qingqiu is Ling Xuanji’s hidden disciple, now publicly revealed after breaking into the Celestial Phenomenon Realm; she is the Grand Primordial Unity lineage’s successor.
• Wang Zheng explains that the Yin-Yang Dual Cultivation Art is a shortcut: it seems to raise cultivation, but builds a “castle in the air.” It may carry no visible backlash until one seeks to prove the Cosmos Realm, where it becomes an insurmountable chasm.
• Wang Zheng openly declares his will to become a Cosmos Saint, despite that dream seeming impossible to most.
• Li Shun and Wang Zheng exchange contact information via Imperial Academy jade tokens before Li Shun returns home at sunset.
• Li Shun notices Wang Zheng never mentioned the Legalist School inheritor, filing that mystery away.
• Li Shun resolves to avenge Fang Han’s stripped Creation, deciding to begin with the Fan Clan of Qingyuan County and eventually target Shao Lingxu. His killing intent becomes calm, absolute, and free of taboos.
• In the Martial World, Fang Han’s blood-red thunderstorm ceases; he orders the strange beast Fei to guard the world and then vanishes.

Character Developments

• Li Shun: Shows remarkable self-control amid sensual temptation; transforms from information-gathering to serene, unshakable resolve for vengeance. He touches a higher state of the Sole Righteousness principle—after revenge is deemed absolute justice, nothing can restrain it.
• Wang Zheng: Revealed as principled and ambitious; he rejects dual-cultivation shortcuts and secretly aspires to the Cosmos Realm.
• Fang Han: Stops his destructive rampage and leaves the Martial World, signaling the true self’s decision to act.

Significant Themes

• Shortcuts vs. firm foundations in cultivation.
• Hidden ambition beneath ordinary appearances.
• Revenge as absolute justice that overrides human law and morality.
• Desire and indulgence vs. stillness and self-mastery.

Character Interactions

• Li Shun and Wang Zheng converse at length; Li Shun questions Wang’s lack of interest in Yin-Yang cultivation, and Wang Zheng returns the question, then explains his Dao-heart stance. They respect each other and become contacts.
• Li Shun only observes Shang Qingqiu’s followers; no direct dialogue with her.
• Fang Han commands Fei, who submits out of fear and loyalty.

Reappearing in Great Qian — Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points / Events

• In the Martial World, Fei watches the Inner World martial artists frenzy under Fang Han’s killing intent and hopes Fang Han will soon lead them back to the Main World.
• Fang Han returns to Great Qian at Former Tomb Commandery, East Mountain Town. Without the Heavenly Dao’s blessing, he is now only an ordinary, low-level cultivator and finds Great Qian’s profound laws crushing and suffocating.
• He chooses to take revenge openly, refusing to hide his face — even though “Fang Han” should have died long ago and appearing could cause trouble for his true body.
• His left arm is still missing, as it was transformed into the Tree of Life in the Martial World; he intends to restore his body only after avenging the theft of Creation Blood.
• He travels toward Qingyuan County using the Primordial Ten Blessings: Azure Wood Invocation, which taps into earth-vein vitality. In Great Qian, it works far more efficiently than in the Martial World.
• Fang Han senses an ancient, distant aura sharing the same origin as his power, and a faint, urgent call from deep in the earth veins asking him to come save it.
• His aggressive drawing on Heaven and Earth’s vitality triggers backlash: Heaven and Earth’s laws suppress him, sever his connection to that ancient call, and a terrifying heavenly lightning tribulation gathers above him — Great Qian’s Heavenly Dao seems unwilling to tolerate the existence of “Witches.”
• In the Imperial Academy, Li Shun’s true body notices the Thunder Pool resonating with the tribulation clouds, and suspects Great Qian’s lightning tribulations may originate from the Thunder Pool rather than from Heaven and Earth’s own will.
• Unknown onlookers rebuke Fang Han verbally, but no one actually acts to stop him; Fang Han continues onward anyway.

Character Developments

• Fang Han: Determined and principled. He accepts the risk of exposing his identity and enduring the world’s suppression for the sake of open, aboveboard revenge. He struggles with the transition from near-godlike power to weakness, but does not waver.
• Fei: Remains loyal to Fang Han, impatient for the eventual return and “killing their way home.”
• Li Shun: Calmly perceptive, quietly analyzing the connection between Great Qian’s lightning tribulations and the Imperial Academy’s Thunder Pool.

Significant Themes

• Revenge and righteousness: Revenge must be carried out openly, not through concealment, to keep one’s mind clear and unimpeded.
• Alienation / being an “aberration”: Fang Han no longer belongs naturally to Great Qian’s current age; the world itself rejects him as a Witch.
• Adaptation to diminished power: The difficulty of going from supreme authority to ordinary cultivator status.
• Backlash of forbidden power: Drawing on Earth’s life force without restraint triggers cosmic suppression and tribulation.

Character Interactions

• Fei ↔ Martial World cultivators: Fei observes their frenzy and privately longs for Fang Han’s return.
• Fang Han ↔ Great Qian world: He is crushed by its laws, rejected by its Heavenly Dao, and briefly connected to an ancient call from the earth veins.
• Li Shun ↔ Fang Han (through connection): Li Shun senses the disturbance and the Thunder Pool’s resonance, recognizing a hidden mechanism behind the tribulation.
• Fang Han ↔ onlookers: He is seen by others but only receives verbal rebukes; no one dares or cares to intervene.

Summary: Annihilation Thunder Tribulation Descends

Key Plot Points

• Fang Han flees across Great Qian with a monstrous thunder tribulation locked onto him; the lightning turns from silver-white to eerie purple as its power escalates
• He realizes the tribulation actually protects him—no enemy faction dares interfere, for fear of being dragged into the heavenly punishment
• The ancient will that had resonated with him is sealed away by Heaven's laws, slowing his absorption of vitality
• In desperation, he sends tens of thousands of hair-strands across Great Qian as "azure dragons" to plunder the essence of spiritual lands and mountains—an act that enrages the Heavenly Dao
• First lightning bolt strikes him dead instantly, carbonizing his body to ash—but he is reborn from the ashes, his new body slightly more efficient at absorbing vitality
• A second wave (three purple lightning dragons) kills him again; from those ashes he is reborn a third time with ancient azure shamanic patterns inscribed on his skin
• He realizes his ordeal mirrors the divine tree Jianmu's rebirth through lightning, and recalls Wu Peng, one of the Ten Shamans, who bathed in heavenly lightning
• He endures nine more purple-gold bolts standing firm, his fear of tribulation fading
• The thunderclouds then collapse into a black singularity—and an Annihilation Mystic Thunder (black, light-devouring, world-ending) descends

Character Developments

• Fang Han transitions from orderly cultivation to ruthless pillaging ("If Heaven will not grant it, then I will take it myself")
• He undergoes repeated death-and-rebirth cycles, each time emerging with a stronger, more refined body—tempered by lightning and fused with tribulation lightning
• His understanding of the Azure Wood Invocation deepens from mundane cultivation technique to something tied to ancient shamanic power
• He gains shamanic patterns that grant vastly superior vitality absorption, connecting him to the primordial Shaman heritage
• His instinctive fear of heavenly tribulation is largely burned away; he becomes more defiant and primal

Significant Themes

• Death and rebirth through destruction—"What is broken must be rebuilt; at the brink of death comes rebirth"
• Defiance of Heaven—taking by force what Heaven refuses to give; the cost of such hubris
• Ancestral/primordial inheritance—the resurgence of shamanic heritage that once rivaled gods and demons
• Trial by ordeal—suffering as the crucible of transformation and power

Character Interactions

• Fang Han vs. Heaven's Will / Heavenly Dao—the central conflict; an escalating struggle of defiance versus punishment
• Fang Han and the sealed ancient will—a former ally/source of resonance is cut off by Heaven's laws, forcing him to rely entirely on himself
• Fang Han and hidden observers—implied hostile factions throughout Great Qian watch his tribulation with alarm, but dare not act
• Internal resonance with ancient figures—his experience mirrors Wu Peng's bathing in heavenly lightning, linking him to a lost shamanic lineage

Summary: Legend of the Primordial Ten Shamans

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Han (Li Shun's puppet) is struck by a bolt of black heavenly lightning while absorbing life force across Great Qian territory
• The black lightning annihilates Fang Han's immortal witch body instantly and continues into the earth, carving out a colossal bottomless void stretching dozens of miles
• At the Imperial Academy, the Thunder Pool malfunctions, leaking black heavenly lightning after unleashing the tribulation
• A phantom alchemy furnace descends, absorbs all the leaking lightning, and seals the Thunder Pool, restoring calm
• Li Shun consults the Ancient Web, which explains the black lightning's true nature: it is a countermeasure created by Heaven and Earth against Outer God invasions, containing no survival opportunity—only pure destruction
• The Ancient Web suspects someone (likely the Great Qian court) deliberately manipulated the heavenly tribulation to target Fang Han
• The Ancient Web reveals the Primordial Ten Blessings: Azure Wood Invocation, Star-Tethering Edict, Soul-Summoning Song, Sea-Covering Chant, Scarlet Earth Howl, Mountain-Subduing Rhythm, Heaven's Sigh, Grand Sound Decree, Calamity-Slaying Cry, and Abyss-Sinking Sigh
• When Li Shun asks to learn the other nine Blessings, the Ancient Web refuses—shamanic powers can only be gained through proper shamanic inheritance, not theft

Character Developments

• Li Shun: Displays caution and paranoia (fears discovery), then growing ambition upon learning of the Ten Blessings. His reach still exceeds his grasp, as the Ancient Web's refusal demonstrates. He remains a behind-the-scenes schemer, not yet powerful enough to act openly.
• Fang Han: Destroyed as a physical body, but his condition was synchronized to Li Shun before death, allowing his form and the Azure Wood totem pattern to be preserved/recovered in the Square Inch. Serves as a reusable tool for Li Shun.
• Ancient Web: Solidifies its role as a source of hidden knowledge, though it withholds information based on Li Shun's capacity to bear it—showing both omniscience and caution.

Significant Themes

• The cost of hubris: Directly contending with heavenly tribulation, even via puppet, brings catastrophic consequences—the world itself is wounded by the black lightning
• Inheritance vs. theft: True power cannot be stolen; it must be properly inherited (a recurring law of this universe)
• Heaven and Earth as a system: The world has its own defense mechanisms against Outer Gods, and black lightning is a double-edged sword that harms the world itself
• The entanglement of court and cosmos: Great Qian's connection to Heaven and Earth is far deeper than Li Shun imagined—they can even control tribulation lightning
• Hiding in plain sight: Li Shun's scheme remains undetected despite the uproar; the Imperial Academy students dismiss the event as routine

Character Interactions

• Li Shun ↔ Ancient Web: A dynamic of questioner and answerer. Li Shun asks about black lightning's origin and the Ten Blessings; the Ancient Web provides detailed expositions but refuses to transmit shamanic methods. It probes Li Shun's readiness before revealing deeper truths.
• Li Shun ↔ Fang Han (puppet): Though separated, Li Shun's foresight (synchronizing Fang Han's condition) preserves the Azure Wood totem knowledge even after death, showing strategic planning.
• Great Qian court ↔ Li Shun (indirect): The court's manipulation of heavenly tribulation serves as a warning shot—they can erase his pawns when needed, though they remain unaware of Li Shun's true identity.

Chapter Summary: "Gu, Born Alongside Heaven"

Key Plot Points

• Ancient Web reveals that the Ten Blessings (including Fang Han's Azure Wood Invocation) all originate from [Gu], a Primordial Witch God born alongside Heaven and Earth. When Gu perished, its origin shattered and became the Ten Witches.
• Ancient Web explains that each Witch can forcibly seize another Witch's source of Creation through slaughter, which caused endless infighting among the Witch Clan and led to their near-annihilation during the primordial catastrophe.
• Though Ancient Web cannot directly locate the other nine Blessings, it deduces a Source-Tracing Secret Art: if Li Shun activates it while within the same world, it will create an unseen bloodline resonance with other Witch inheritances. Li Shun's real body can't test it, so he must wait for Fang Han to recover.
• Li Shun approaches Han Qi, feigning ignorance about the previous day's disturbance at the Imperial Academy's Thunder Pool.
• Han Qi confirms the disturbance was not an Outer God, but refuses to explain further — Li Shun will only learn the truth if he passes the Outworld Trial.
• Han Qi then explains Great Qian's two methods of cross-world travel:
  1. Flesh descent: Crossing the gate of stars in physical form. Dangerous but allows full cultivation power; often done in teams; a Celestial Phenomenon Realm cultivator can suppress an entire lesser world.
  2. Soul descent: A wisp of soul crosses the void and attaches to a being in another world. The soul may lose memories or be overtaken by the host's original consciousness; the host body is random (could be a cultivator or a slave); the completion rate for Imperial Academy students is only ~3%.
• Li Shun reflects on his own transmigration into a laborer's body at Cold Mountain, recognizing the role of luck regardless of knowledge.

Character Developments

• Ancient Web: Shows uncharacteristic emotional ripples in its cold mechanical tone when speaking of the Ten Blessings; reveals deeper knowledge of primordial history.
• Li Shun: Strategic — conceals what he knows while extracting information from Han Qi; contemplates gathering all Ten Blessings despite the minimal odds; connects his past experience (transmigration into a laborer) to Han Qi's warnings.
• Han Qi: Provides genuine instruction; hints at personal fear or trauma regarding soul descent ("seeming like recollection... yet also like a trace of fear"); establishes trust with Li Shun while maintaining necessary secrecy.

Significant Themes

• Mythology and origins: The unified origin of the Ten Blessings in [Gu], whose fragmented power underpins the world's order.
• Fragmentation and devouring: Power acquired through murder of one's own kind; the Witch Clan's fatal disunity making them first to fall.
• Identity displacement: The horror of soul descent — losing oneself to another body, another world, another life; waking only at death's door.
• Luck vs. preparation: Knowledge alone is insufficient; fortune in reincarnation/possession plays a decisive role.
• Information as currency: Han Qi gates truth behind the Outworld Trial; Li Shun treats knowledge as a resource to be gathered asymmetrically.

Character Interactions

• Ancient Web ↔ Li Shun: Ancient Web offers the Source-Tracing Secret Art with genuine sincerity; a rare moment of advisory warmth from an otherwise cold entity.
• Li Shun ↔ Han Qi: Li Shun tests Han Qi's perception; Han Qi sees through the probe but indulges him — a mentor-student relationship built on mutual respect and measured revelation.
• Han Qi's internal contrast: Teacher's caution vs. student's curiosity regarding the unknown worlds.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Shun acknowledges his mistake and focuses on cultivating the [Jade-Attacking Method].
• Fang Han completes his revenge and recovers within Square Inch.
• Fang Han faces another Heaven and Earth tribulation in Great Qian, this time with black lightning.
• Fang Han encounters five Creation Realm cultivators, including one from the School of Names, who attempt to capture him using a golden cage.

Character Developments

• Li Shun becomes more humble and focused on his cultivation.
• Fang Han's strength and control over the Azure Wood Invocation increase, allowing him to withstand more powerful lightning tribulations.
• Fang Han remains fearless and determined despite being outnumbered and outmatched.

Significant Themes

• The importance of acknowledging and learning from one's mistakes (Li Shun).
• The power of determination and resilience in the face of adversity (Fang Han).
• The consequences of underestimating one's opponent (Creation Realm cultivators).

Character Interactions

• Li Shun and Fang Han continue their cultivation and preparation for the next trial.
• Fang Han encounters and clashes with five powerful Creation Realm cultivators, including one from the School of Names.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Han's Life Qi transforms into a blazing inferno, destroying the golden cage that imprisons him and drawing the vitality of Heaven and Earth.
• The School of Names Creation Realm expert remains unharmed by Fang Han's flames, as they pass through him like an illusion.
• Fang Han suffers severe backlash from his own attacks, and realizes he's bound in a formation where his injuries are shared among the five Creation Realm experts present, but only he suffers the damage.
• Fang Han understands that the School of Diplomacy's divine ability is causing the backlash, isolating him as the 'vertical alliance' while the others form a 'horizontal alliance'.
• Fang Han decides to drag everyone down with him, entering a desperate, self-destructive state, injuring himself while attacking the experts.
• The eldest expert among the five begins chanting, transforming the vitality of Heaven and Earth into a deadly poison for Fang Han.

Character Developments

• Fang Han demonstrates his resilience and desperation, willing to self-destruct to take down his enemies.
• The five Creation Realm experts show their strategic prowess, using divine abilities to protect themselves and counter Fang Han's attacks.

Significant Themes

• The consequences of one's actions (Fang Han's attacks backfashing onto himself)
• Strategic alliances and their consequences (vertical vs horizontal alliances)
• The dual nature of power (vitality of Heaven and Earth becoming a poison)

Character Interactions

• Fang Han vs. The five Creation Realm experts: A desperate, strategic battle where Fang Han tries to outmaneuver the experts, who counter with their own strategies.
• The five Creation Realm experts: They work together, using their divine abilities to protect each other and counter Fang Han's attacks.