Ch. 681Countdown! Back to the Zhao Residence!
Key plot points and events
- Wu Yu returns safely from the Underground World after killing dozens of monsters and collecting low-value Cards.
- Before leaving the underground evacuation point, he activates a disposable [Life’s Instant] artifact as insurance against a possible attack by the Three Great Sects. He later removes it from the inn and heads to the Zhao Residence.
- At the residence, Wu Yu tells Zhao Polu that the Long Family Ancestor ambushed him underground—and that Wu Yu killed him.
- Wu Yu shows Zhao Polu the [All Beings Spine], which Zhao recognizes but advises burning with the [Evernight Lamp].
- Wu Yu then reveals the “Book of a Hundred Lifetimes.” Zhao identifies it as a relic of the Reincarnation Heavenly God, a True God and founder of the [Silver Dynasty].
- Zhao explains that the book allows humans, Fierce Beasts, and Eerie Beings to undergo a hundred reincarnations in pursuit of godhood. He warns Wu Yu not to use it: its real purpose and dangers are unknown, and no one Zhao knows of has become a god through it.
Character developments and interactions
- Wu Yu acts cautiously but decisively, spending money on a backup artifact despite its likely waste. At the Zhao Residence, he sees through Zhao’s polite pretense and presses him for an honest assessment of the spine and book.
- Zhao Polu initially responds to Wu Yu’s report with casual praise, but his composure breaks when he sees the Book of a Hundred Lifetimes. His reaction reveals that the Long Family Ancestor’s longevity and body-stealing schemes were tied to this divine treasure.
- The two speak with familiarity and mutual respect, though Wu Yu challenges Zhao directly when he suspects him of withholding what he knows.
Significant themes
- Power and hidden schemes: The Long Family Ancestor’s apparent immortality concealed a long-running plan involving reincarnation and the bodies of his descendants.
- The danger of divine gifts: The Book offers a path to godhood, but Zhao’s warning suggests that such power comes with unknown risks and motives.
- Caution amid uncertainty: Wu Yu balances preparedness against cost, while Zhao urges restraint when faced with a seemingly extraordinary opportunity.