Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wu Changkong and his group go for a walk after dinner, exploring the night market.
• They stop at a jewelry stall and a food stall, buying various items.
• Wu Changkong stops at an iron ore shop, intrigued by the materials inside.

Character Developments

• Wu Changkong shows interest in forging and knowledge about different metals, hinting at his hidden skills and expertise.
• Shui Bing'er and her sisters display their spending habits and appetites, contrasting with Wu Changkong's focus on the task at hand.

Significant Themes

• The value of materials and their uses in crafting powerful equipment, foreshadowing Wu Changkong's future creations.
• The contrast between Wu Changkong's focus and the others' leisurely stroll, highlighting his dedication and seriousness.

Character Interactions

• Wu Changkong and Shui Bing'er have a brief, awkward exchange about their relationship status.
• Wu Changkong and Xue Wu enter the blacksmith's shop together, with Xue Wu expressing curiosity and support for Wu Changkong's interest in forging.
• The blacksmith shows skepticism towards Wu Changkong's interest in iron ore, underestimating the young man's knowledge and intentions.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wu Changkong discovers rare metals like Cloud Titanium, Iron Crystal associated ore, and raw Star Ore in a blacksmith shop.
• He decides to buy these metals along with several hundred jin of iron ore to create battle armor.
• Shui Bing'er offers to lend Wu Changkong the difference in price.

Character Developments

• Wu Changkong demonstrates his knowledge of minerals and metals, showing his expertise in forging.
• Shui Bing'er displays her generosity and trust in Wu Changkong by lending him money.

Significant Themes

• The value of rare materials and their scarcity in different time periods.
• Trust and friendship between Wu Changkong and Shui Bing'er.

Character Interactions

• Wu Changkong and the blacksmith discuss the prices of various metals.
• Wu Changkong and Shui Bing'er discuss the loan, with Wu Changkong promising to repay her within a year.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wu Changkong attempts to buy iron ore for his Battle Armor project.
• He meets Tie Meng, the shop owner, who offers him a trial shift as a blacksmith.
• Wu Changkong accepts and begins working on a half-finished short blade.

Character Developments

• Wu Changkong demonstrates his skill and professionalism in blacksmithing.
• Tie Meng reassesses Wu Changkong's capabilities and potential as a blacksmith.
• Shui Bing'er shows generosity by lending Wu Changkong money without interest.

Significant Themes

• Friendship and mutual support (Shui Bing'er lending money to Wu Changkong).
• Professionalism and skill (Wu Changkong's approach to blacksmithing).
• Opportunity and assessment (Tie Meng's decision to give Wu Changkong a trial shift).

Character Interactions

• Wu Changkong and Tie Meng: Wu Changkong proves his worth, and Tie Meng considers hiring him.
• Wu Changkong and Shui Bing'er: Shui Bing'er displays generosity and trust in Wu Changkong.
• Wu Changkong and Shui Yue'er: They discuss Wu Changkong's plans to work part-time as a blacksmith.
• Wu Changkong and the old blacksmith: The old master acknowledges Wu Changkong's skill.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wu Changkong forges a short blade at Tie Meng's shop, demonstrating exceptional skill.
• He passes the test and is hired to work weekends at the shop.
• Shui Bing'er gives Wu Changkong a handkerchief to wipe his sweat, showing concern for him.

Character Developments

• Wu Changkong: Proves his blacksmithing skills, impressing Tie Meng and the girls. Shows humility and gratitude towards Shui Bing'er's gesture.
• Shui Bing'er: Shows growing affection towards Wu Changkong, worrying about him and giving him a personal item.
• Shui Yue'er, Xue Wu, and Gu Qingbo: Realize their feelings for Wu Changkong and step back, supporting his relationship with Shui Bing'er.

Significant Themes

• Skill and Craftsmanship: Wu Changkong's exceptional blacksmithing skills are highlighted, showing the importance of mastery and dedication.
• Growing Affection: The developing feelings between Wu Changkong and Shui Bing'er are explored, with other characters acknowledging and supporting their relationship.

Character Interactions

• Wu Changkong and Tie Meng: The master blacksmith is impressed by Wu Changkong's skills and hires him.
• Wu Changkong and Shui Bing'er: Their affection for each other grows, with Shui Bing'er showing concern for Wu Changkong's well-being.
• Shui Bing'er, Shui Yue'er, Xue Wu, and Gu Qingbo: The girls support each other and Wu Changkong, with Xue Wu and Gu Qingbo stepping back from their initial feelings for Wu Changkong.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The group of friends (Xue Wu, Gu Qingbo, Shui Bing'er, Shui Yue'er, and Wu Changkong) are at the lake on their first day of school.
• They witness two girls kissing under a willow tree, causing surprise and discomfort among the group.
• Wu Changkong dismisses the incident and suggests they return to the dormitory.
• Later, Wu Changkong showers and hears an unusual sound in his room, suggesting an intruder.

Character Developments

• Wu Changkong demonstrates calm composure when witnessing the kiss, showing maturity and indifference to such situations.
• Shui Yue'er expresses naivety and surprise at seeing the kiss, contrasting with Wu Changkong's reaction.
• Wu Changkong shows heightened senses and caution when he suspects an intruder in his room.

Significant Themes

• Acceptance of diverse relationships and behaviors (represented by the kiss between two girls).
• Maturity and composure in the face of unusual situations (shown by Wu Changkong).

Character Interactions

• Xue Wu, Gu Qingbo, and Shui Bing'er show varying levels of surprise and discomfort when witnessing the kiss.
• Wu Changkong and Shui Yue'er have a brief exchange about his calm reaction to the kiss, with Shui Yue'er questioning his normalcy.
• Wu Changkong's interaction with the suspected intruder is not revealed yet, leaving it as a cliffhanger.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shui Yu, Shui Bing'er's father, breaks into Wu Changkong's dormitory at night.
• He reveals that he wants to test Wu Changkong's worthiness for his daughter's affection.
• Shui Yu uses his soul power pressure to test Wu Changkong, starting at 20% and increasing to 50%.

Character Developments

• Wu Changkong demonstrates exceptional physical strength, willpower, and sword intent, withstanding 50% of Shui Yu's pressure.
• Shui Yu is impressed by Wu Changkong's abilities and acknowledges his worthiness for his daughter.

Significant Themes

• The test of Wu Changkong's strength and worthiness for Shui Bing'er's affection.
• The importance of personal assessment over hearsay.

Character Interactions

• Wu Changkong and Shui Yu's interaction is initially tense but evolves into mutual respect as Wu Changkong passes Shui Yu's tests.
• Shui Yu's approval of Wu Changkong signals a potential change in his initial reservations about Wu Changkong's relationship with his daughter.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shui Yu, the Shui Family's head, initially tests Wu Changkong's sincerity and strength, then discusses a potential marriage between Wu Changkong and his daughter, Shui Bing'er.
• Shui Yu reveals that Shui Bing'er and Yu Tianxin (of the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Clan) were betrothed as children due to political reasons and to secure the Shui Family's stability.
• The Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Clan expects this marriage to be formalized when Shui Bing'er turns 18, as they believe the Shui Family lacks the strength to refuse.

Character Developments

• Wu Changkong: Shows maturity and understanding beyond his age, understanding the political complexities behind the betrothal.
• Shui Yu: Reveals his past struggles as family head and his desire to protect his daughter's happiness while ensuring the Shui Family's stability.

Significant Themes

• Political marriages and alliances among powerful families to maintain their status and bloodline purity.
• The struggle between personal desires and familial duties.
• The importance of strength and influence in determining one's fate.

Character Interactions

• Wu Changkong and Shui Yu: They discuss the betrothal, with Shui Yu testing Wu Changkong's sincerity and Wu Changkong demonstrating his understanding and acceptance of the situation.
• Shui Bing'er and Wu Changkong: Their growing affection is noticed by others, including Shui Bing'er's aunt, who informs Shui Yu.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shui Bing'er's marriage proposal deadline is set for her 18th birthday, five years away.
• Wu Changkong decides he needs to reach the level of a Titled Douluo in five years to impress the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Family.
• Shui Yu gives Wu Changkong a Shui Family token as a sign of recognition and support.
• Wu Changkong spends an entire night drawing the blueprint for his first set of battle armor, named "Ice."

Character Developments

• Wu Changkong demonstrates his determination and work ethic by setting an ambitious goal and immediately beginning work on his battle armor.
• Shui Yu shows his support and faith in Wu Changkong by giving him the Shui Family token.

Significant Themes

• Ambition and Determination: Wu Changkong's resolve to reach a high soul master level in a short time shows his ambition and determination.
• Recognition and Support: The theme of being valued is evident in Shui Yu's actions, as he acknowledges Wu Changkong's potential and offers his support.

Character Interactions

• Wu Changkong and Shui Yu have a heart-to-heart conversation, leading to Shui Yu's decision to support Wu Changkong.
• Wu Changkong's dedication to his work is shown when he spends an entire night drawing the battle armor blueprint, demonstrating his focus and commitment.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wu Changkong oversleeps on the first day of school, drawing suspicion from his classmates and teacher, Ling Shuang.
• Ling Shuang discovers Wu Changkong's forging blueprints and questions him about them.
• Wu Changkong is late to the morning assembly, and Ling Shuang scolds him in front of the class.
• Shui Bing'er laughs during the scolding, and Ling Shuang punishes both Wu Changkong and Shui Bing'er to run laps around the field.

Character Developments

• Wu Changkong: Shows humility and accepts responsibility for his mistake, demonstrating maturity and self-awareness.
• Shui Bing'er: Initially amused by Wu Changkong's situation, she quickly regains composure and accepts punishment without complaint.

Significant Themes

• Responsibility: Wu Changkong understands the importance of his role as Class Monitor and accepts the consequences of his actions.
• Authority: Ling Shuang asserts her authority as a teacher, maintaining discipline and order in the class.

Character Interactions

• Wu Changkong and Ling Shuang: Ling Shuang scolds Wu Changkong for his tardiness, while Wu Changkong accepts her reprimand without argument.
• Wu Changkong and Shui Bing'er: Wu Changkong apologizes to Shui Bing'er for involving her in his punishment, showing consideration for his classmate.
• Shui Bing'er and Ling Shuang: Ling Shuang punishes Shui Bing'er for laughing during the scolding, demonstrating her fairness and impartiality.

Chapter Summary: “Are You Two Flirting?”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shui Bing’er joins Wu Changkong for a morning run, explaining that she wants more exercise.
• Wu reveals that the blueprint he drew the previous night was for a special suit of armor capable of allowing a Soul Elder to fight a Soul Ancestor without disadvantage.
• Their conversation becomes unintentionally romantic when Wu tells Bing’er that he might lie to others, but would never lie to her. Bing’er becomes flustered.
• Ling Shuang notices them running and talking together and teases them by asking whether they are flirting. The entire class turns to watch, embarrassing Bing’er and causing her to sprint ahead.
• Afterward, Ling Shuang announces that the class will undergo practical combat testing at the Spirit Battle Arena. The purpose is to assess each student’s Martial Soul, combat style, abilities, tactics, and adaptability.
• She emphasizes that the matches will be serious battles, not demonstrations, and instructs the students to use their full strength.
• Because the class includes Support Type Soul Masters, the test will feature both one-on-one and two-on-two battles, with Support Soul Masters paired with Battle Soul Masters.
• Shen Liuyu questions whether Wu Changkong must fight every student individually. She argues that his overwhelming strength would cause most classmates to lose instantly, preventing Ling Shuang from properly evaluating their abilities.
• Several students agree, admitting that Wu’s reputation—especially his ability to defeat even a Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon with one sword strike—makes facing him extremely intimidating.
• Principal Shui Qinghan accepts Shen Liuyu’s reasoning and proposes a special match: Shui Bing’er and Xue Wu, the only Soul Elders in the class besides Wu, will fight Wu Changkong together in a two-on-one battle. The class reacts with surprise and excitement.

Character Developments

• Wu Changkong: Remains serious, disciplined, and straightforward. He does not pursue Bing’er after she runs ahead and continues his assigned exercise calmly. His terrifying combat reputation is reinforced by the classmates’ fear of being defeated instantly.
• Shui Bing’er: Shows growing romantic feelings toward Wu. His personal reassurance makes her heart race, and Ling Shuang’s teasing causes her to become visibly embarrassed and flee ahead.
• Ling Shuang: Demonstrates a strict but perceptive teaching style. Although she criticizes Wu’s stubbornness and tendency to talk back, she respects his seriousness and talent.
• Shen Liuyu: Displays courage, intelligence, and practical judgment by challenging the testing arrangement. Her concern is not cowardice but ensuring that the assessment produces useful information.
• Shui Qinghan: Acts as a fair and strategic principal. He recognizes both Wu’s exceptional strength and the need to design a test that benefits the entire class.

Significant Themes

• Romantic tension and teasing: Wu and Bing’er’s intimate conversation, combined with Ling Shuang’s public teasing, highlights their developing relationship and Bing’er’s growing affection.
• Strength and unequal ability: Wu’s overwhelming power creates a problem for normal evaluation, showing that exceptional talent can isolate someone from their peers.
• Practical education: Ling Shuang’s test emphasizes real combat, adaptability, teamwork, and the importance of understanding individual strengths rather than relying solely on theory.
• Teamwork and the value of support: The inclusion of two-on-two battles recognizes that Support Type Soul Masters are essential in combat and can determine the outcome of a fight.
• Facing challenges directly: Ling Shuang stresses that avoiding stronger opponents does not solve problems, while Shen Liuyu argues for a more useful and rational form of confrontation.

Important Character Interactions

• Wu Changkong and Shui Bing’er: Their run contains subtle romantic undertones, especially when Wu assures her that he would never lie to her.
• Ling Shuang and Wu/Bing’er: Ling Shuang publicly jokes that the pair is flirting, embarrassing Bing’er and entertaining the class.
• Ling Shuang and the students: She establishes the seriousness of the upcoming combat tests and demands that everyone fight with full effort.
• Shen Liuyu and Ling Shuang: Shen respectfully challenges the teacher’s proposed format, arguing that Wu’s strength would make ordinary matches meaningless.
• Shui Qinghan and the class: The principal validates Shen’s point and creates a special two-versus-one match involving Wu, Shui Bing’er, and Xue Wu, setting up the chapter’s next major confrontation.

Chapter Summary: “The Grand Finale”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wu Changkong agrees to fight Shui Bing’er and Xue Wu simultaneously, despite Shui Bing’er’s concern that a two-on-one battle is unfair.
• Ling Shuang organizes the class tournament:
  • Battle Soul Masters draw numbers to determine their opponents.
  • Support Soul Masters are assigned randomly to the corresponding groups.
  • The first several matches will be fought normally, while groups with Support Types will battle two-on-two.
  • Wu Changkong, Shui Bing’er, and Xue Wu are saved for the final match to heighten suspense.
• The opening match pits an Ice Wolf Soul Master against a Fire Ape Soul Master. After several minutes of close combat, the Fire Ape fighter wins through elemental advantage and greater Soul Power reserves.
• In the third group, Shui Yue’er faces Shen Liuyu:
  • Shui Yue’er uses her Lustrous Jade Dolphin Martial Soul, relying on speed and evasive movement.
  • Shen Liuyu uses her Enamel Fortune Crocodile Martial Soul, emphasizing overwhelming defense and frontal power.
  • Shen repeatedly attempts to strike Shui Yue’er, but Shui Yue’er avoids every attack.
  • Shui Yue’er’s counterattacks fail to penetrate Shen’s scales, creating a battle of agility and endurance.
• Wu Changkong recognizes that Shui Yue’er is about to turn the battle in her favor. He points out that Shen Liuyu’s footwork and repeated turning are making her dizzy.
• Shui Yue’er changes tactics, circling Shen at increasing speed instead of merely retreating. She then prepares to use her first Soul Skill, Wind-Treading Water-Shadow Step, followed by her second Soul Skill, Dolphin Surfing.

Character Developments

• Wu Changkong demonstrates confidence and willingness to challenge multiple opponents at once. He also displays sharp battle analysis by immediately identifying the weakness in Shen Liuyu’s movement pattern.
• Shui Bing’er shows concern for both fairness and her younger sister’s safety. Her anxiety grows as Shui Yue’er struggles to damage Shen Liuyu, revealing her protective nature.
• Xue Wu provides a practical tactical assessment, explaining that Shui Yue’er must rely on patience rather than raw striking power.
• Shui Yue’er begins the battle playfully but quickly becomes serious. She demonstrates adaptability by abandoning simple evasive maneuvers and developing a strategy based on exhausting and disorienting her opponent.
• Shen Liuyu is established as one of the class’s strongest defensive fighters. Although powerful and difficult to damage, her reliance on pursuit and turning creates a weakness against a faster opponent.

Significant Themes

• Strategy over brute force: Shui Yue’er cannot break Shen Liuyu’s defense directly, so she wins an advantage through speed, positioning, and patience.
• Strengths and weaknesses in combat: The match highlights the natural contrast between agility-attack and power-defense Soul Masters.
• Observation and battlefield intelligence: Wu Changkong’s analysis shows that understanding an opponent’s rhythm can be as important as physical strength.
• Suspense and spectacle: Ling Shuang deliberately places the strongest battle last, building anticipation for the confrontation between Wu Changkong, Shui Bing’er, and Xue Wu.
• Protectiveness and camaraderie: Shui Bing’er’s concern for Shui Yue’er and the friendly teasing between the contestants reveal the close bonds within the class.

Character Interactions

• Shui Bing’er initially questions whether Wu Changkong’s two-on-one battle is fair, but Xue Wu humorously challenges her hesitation, suggesting she may be worried either about Wu’s ability or about injuring him.
• Shui Yue’er jokes with Shen Liuyu before the match, while Shen responds with dry humor, establishing their friendly rivalry.
• Shui Bing’er and Xue Wu analyze the battle from the sidelines, discussing the limits of Shui Yue’er’s attacks and the importance of endurance.
• Wu Changkong’s brief tactical comment surprises both women and shifts their attention toward Shen Liuyu’s vulnerable footwork.
• The chapter ends as Shui Yue’er successfully creates the opening she needs and activates her two Soul Skills.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shui Yue'er (water-type Martial Soul) defeats Shen Liuyu (crocodile-scale Martial Soul) in a practical test by knocking her off the Spirit Battle Platform using a surprise attack.
• Gu Qingbo (sailfish Martial Soul) spars with Yu Hairou (barracuda Martial Soul), demonstrating exceptional speed and agility but lacking defensive skills. Yu Hairou showcases her ability to sense Soul Power auras and powerful offensive skills.

Character Developments

• Shui Yue'er: Proves her ability to identify opponents' habits and formulate surprise attacks, but relies too heavily on one-time ambushes and lacks self-preservation.
• Shen Liuyu: Acknowledges her weakness in turning speed and resolves to improve her predictive footwork.
• Gu Qingbo: Exhibits impressive speed and decisiveness in attacks but needs to develop defensive skills and adaptability to unexpected situations.
• Yu Hairou: Demonstrates powerful offensive skills and the ability to sense Soul Power auras, gaining respect from Gu Qingbo.

Significant Themes

• The importance of self-preservation and adaptability in combat.
• The value of understanding one's own and opponents' strengths and weaknesses.
• The role of teamwork and strategy in battles.

Character Interactions

• Shui Yue'er and Shen Liuyu: Rivals who push each other to improve, with Shui Yue'er's victory stirring Shen Liuyu's fighting spirit.
• Gu Qingbo and Yu Hairou: Sparring partners who gain mutual respect and appreciation for each other's skills.
• Ling Shuang (teacher): Provides constructive criticism and guidance to help students improve their fighting styles and strategies.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wu Changkong, Shui Bing'er, and Xue Wu are the last group to battle on the Spirit Battle Platform.
• Wu Changkong releases his Martial Soul, Skyfrost Sword, with three Millennium Soul Rings.
• Shui Bing'er releases her Martial Soul, Ice Phoenix, and Xue Wu releases her Martial Soul, Snowforged Silken Dance.
• Wu Changkong initiates the battle with his first Soul Skill, Frostmark.
• Shui Bing'er counters with her first Soul Skill, Ice Seal, enhanced by Xue Wu's Ice and Snow Domain.

Character Developments

• Wu Changkong demonstrates his powerful ice-type Martial Soul and Soul Skills, striking awe into his classmates.
• Shui Bing'er and Xue Wu showcase their teamwork and complementary Soul Skills, proving they're a force to be reckoned with.
• Xue Wu's unique auxiliary Soul Skill, Ice and Snow, is revealed, which weakens the enemy's condition over an area.

Significant Themes

• The power of ice-type Martial Souls and the synergy between different Soul Skills.
• The importance of teamwork and strategy in battle.
• The impact of auxiliary-type Soul Masters on the battlefield.

Character Interactions

• Wu Changkong, Shui Bing'er, and Xue Wu display respect and camaraderie, with Wu Changkong warning his opponents before attacking.
• Shui Bing'er and Xue Wu work together seamlessly, with Shui Bing'er taking the lead in defense and Xue Wu supporting with her Soul Skills.
• The students below watch the battle with admiration and excitement, discussing the strengths of the combatants.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wu Changkong's lower body is frozen by Shui Bing'er, but he breaks free using his sword aura.
• Shui Bing'er attacks with her Ice Ring Armor, but Wu Changkong's precise sword aura control shatters it without harming her.
• Xue Wu uses her Soul Skills, Dark Cloud and Rainfall, to suppress Wu Changkong.
• Shui Bing'er uses her Repelling Ice Ring, which Wu Changkong counters with his Skyfrost Slash.
• Shui Bing'er saves Xue Wu from the remaining sword aura, taking the hit herself.

Character Developments

• Wu Changkong demonstrates exceptional control over his sword aura, revealing his high skill level.
• Shui Bing'er shows courage and selflessness by protecting Xue Wu.
• Xue Wu's Soul Skills prove powerful but consume a lot of Soul Power.

Significant Themes

• Precise control over one's abilities is crucial for victory (Wu Changkong's sword aura control).
• Selflessness and teamwork are essential (Shui Bing'er saving Xue Wu).
• Powerful abilities can be weakened or negated by clever strategy (Wu Changkong's counter to Shui Bing'er's Repelling Ice Ring).

Character Interactions

• Wu Changkong and Shui Bing'er engage in a intense sparring match, showcasing their skills and strategies.
• Shui Bing'er and Xue Wu work together, with Xue Wu providing suppression and Shui Bing'er dealing direct damage.
• Shui Qinghan, the dean, watches the match and intervenes when necessary, showing appreciation for Wu Changkong's skill and Shui Bing'er's selflessness.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shui Bing'er saves Xue Wu, and their soul powers unexpectedly fuse, creating a Martial Soul Fusion Skill.
• They attempt to use this new skill, causing a snowstorm and summoning an enormous Ice Phoenix.
• Wu Changkong tests the skill by unleashing a powerful attack, which they withstand and counter.
• The skill's power is revealed to be at the Soul King level, and Wu Changkong takes the hit, demonstrating his strength.

Character Developments

• Shui Bing'er and Xue Wu discover their ability to create a Martial Soul Fusion Skill, marking a significant development in their powers.
• Wu Changkong showcases his immense strength by taking a Soul King-level attack head-on.
• Shui Yue'er expresses jealousy of her sister's newfound ability, hinting at potential character growth in accepting and embracing her own strengths.

Significant Themes

• Friendship and Teamwork: The fusion skill is a result of Shui Bing'er's spontaneous act to save Xue Wu, highlighting the importance of friendship and teamwork.
• Power and Acceptance: The characters grapple with accepting their newfound or demonstrated powers, such as Shui Bing'er and Xue Wu with their fusion skill and Wu Changkong with his immense strength.

Character Interactions

• Shui Bing'er and Xue Wu's bond deepens as they discover their fusion skill and work together to use it.
• Wu Changkong interacts with the duo, acknowledging their skill and expressing eagerness to face them again.
• Shui Yue'er interacts with Shui Bing'er, expressing jealousy and hinting at potential sibling rivalry or growth.

Chapter Summary: The Double-Standard Headmistress

Key Plot Points and Events

• After the practical assessment, Xue Wu and Shui Yue'er comically fight over Shui Bing'er’s attention. Xue Wu claims that her Martial Soul Fusion Skill with Bing'er proves they are destined partners, while Yue'er insists that she, as Bing’er’s biological sister, has priority.
• Shui Bing'er becomes trapped between them as both girls cling to her, provoking widespread laughter from the students. She eventually loses patience and orders them to stop.
• Headmistress Ling Shuang ends the practical assessment and announces that the students’ performances will be reviewed during the afternoon theory class.
• Shui Qinghan privately summons Wu Changkong and asks about Shui Yu’s visit the previous night. Wu explains that Bing’er’s father tested his strength and discussed an old engagement involving the Shui family.
• Shui Qinghan reveals that Shui Yu greatly approves of Wu Changkong and openly supports his pursuit of Shui Bing'er. Although she previously warned that romance could interfere with cultivation, she makes an exception for the two of them.
• Wu realizes that both Shui family elders support the relationship. The only major obstacle remaining is the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Clan.
• Wu later reunites with Shui Bing'er and Shui Yue'er. Yue'er questions him about the headmistress’s summons, while Bing’er quietly observes him.
• At the cafeteria, Wu attracts considerable attention as the only male student among the academy’s many female students.
• The group sits with Xue Wu. Qiu Ruoshui and Shen Liuyu soon join them, and Qiu asks Wu how he developed sword energy strong enough to withstand a Martial Soul Fusion Skill.

Character Developments

• Wu Changkong: Gains greater confidence regarding his relationship with Shui Bing'er after learning that both Shui Yu and Shui Qinghan approve of him. He remains modest and composed when questioned about his strength.
• Shui Bing'er: Demonstrates patience while managing the quarrel between Yue'er and Xue Wu. Her repeated glances toward Wu suggest growing romantic interest and curiosity about his private conversation with the headmistress.
• Shui Yue'er: Shows her possessive affection for her sister in an exaggerated, comedic way. Her enthusiasm quickly shifts from arguing to food and questioning Wu about his abilities.
• Xue Wu: Continues to tease and compete with Yue'er, confidently emphasizing her special bond with Bing'er through their Martial Soul Fusion Skill.
• Shui Qinghan: Reveals a surprisingly warm and permissive side. Despite her strict reputation and usual opposition to student romance, she gives Wu and Bing'er special approval.
• Qiu Ruoshui: Shows respect for Wu’s combat performance and takes the initiative to ask about his sword training, indicating her strong interest in his abilities.

Significant Themes

• Double standards and favoritism: Shui Qinghan admits that while romance is generally discouraged, she will overlook it in Wu and Bing’er’s case because she believes their relationship is exceptional.
• Romantic rivalry and possessiveness: The playful dispute between Xue Wu and Shui Yue’er highlights competing forms of closeness to Bing’er—one through spiritual compatibility and one through family ties.
• Family approval and social obstacles: Wu’s relationship receives support from the Shui family, but the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Clan remains a potential source of conflict.
• Strength and recognition: Wu’s ability to withstand the fusion attack elevates his reputation, attracting admiration and questions from classmates.
• Comedy and camaraderie: The teasing, cafeteria interactions, and students’ laughter balance the more serious developments surrounding Wu’s relationship and future.

Important Character Interactions

• Xue Wu and Shui Yue’er: Engage in a humorous verbal and physical battle over Shui Bing’er’s attention.
• Shui Qinghan and Wu Changkong: Discuss Shui Yu’s approval, the old engagement, Wu’s cultivation, and his relationship with Bing’er.
• Wu Changkong, Shui Bing’er, and Shui Yue’er: Walk together to lunch, with Yue’er questioning Wu and Bing’er silently studying his reactions.
• Qiu Ruoshui and Wu Changkong: Begin a conversation about his powerful sword energy and how he survived the Martial Soul Fusion Skill.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wu Changkong shares his sword training method with his classmates.
• After lunch, they decide to meet before afternoon class and return to their rooms for a nap.
• Shui Bing'er visits Wu Changkong's room to ask about the Battle Armor blueprint he drew the previous night.
• Wu Changkong explains the concept and workings of Battle Armor to Shui Bing'er.
• Shui Bing'er asks Wu Changkong to teach her how to make Battle Armor, offering to pay for materials and labor.
• Wu Changkong agrees, on the condition that she accompanies him to hunt his fourth Soul Ring.
• Shui Bing'er chooses to learn the design stage of Battle Armor production.
• Wu Changkong gives Shui Bing'er blueprints to study, and they are interrupted by their classmates eavesdropping.

Character Developments

• Wu Changkong: Shows patience and understanding in explaining complex concepts to Shui Bing'er. He also displays a playful side when teasing her.
• Shui Bing'er: Demonstrates a keen interest in learning about Battle Armor and shows determination in choosing her path. She also shows embarrassment and shyness around Wu Changkong.
• Shui Yue'er, Xue Wu, and Gu Qingbo: Show curiosity and nosiness, leading to them eavesdropping on Wu Changkong and Shui Bing'er's conversation.

Significant Themes

• Learning and growth: Shui Bing'er's desire to learn about Battle Armor and Wu Changkong's willingness to teach her.
• Trust and friendship: The classmates' growing bond, shown through their shared meals and conversations.
• Embarrassment and shyness: Shui Bing'er's reactions to Wu Changkong's teasing and her classmates' eavesdropping.

Character Interactions

• Wu Changkong and Shui Bing'er: They share a close, teacher-student-like relationship, with Wu Changkong patiently explaining concepts to Shui Bing'er. There's also a hint of romantic tension, as shown by Shui Bing'er's embarrassment and Wu Changkong's teasing.
• Shui Bing'er and her classmates: They share a friendly, curious, and sometimes nosy dynamic, as seen when they eavesdrop on Shui Bing'er and Wu Changkong's conversation.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wu Changkong introduces the concept of Battle Armor to his classmates, which can greatly enhance a Soul Master's strength and allow a Soul Elder to challenge a Soul Ancestor.
• The group decides to keep the project a secret to ensure Wu Changkong's safety.
• Wu Changkong divides the work into four professions: design, forging, assembly, and repair.
• The girls choose their professions: Shui Bing'er as designer, Xue Wu and Gu Qingbo as assemblers, Shui Yue'er as repairer, and Wu Changkong as forger.
• They decide to dictate and write the introductory guide together to save Wu Changkong's time.

Character Developments

• Wu Changkong shows his leadership and responsibility by initiating the Battle Armor project and dividing the work among his classmates.
• Shui Bing'er demonstrates her concern for Wu Changkong's well-being and workload.
• Shui Yue'er exhibits her playful and impulsive nature, initially choosing repair without fully understanding the role, but later accepting it after realizing its responsibilities.
• Xue Wu and Gu Qingbo display their thoughtfulness and willingness to help by suggesting they dictate and write the guide together.

Significant Themes

• Teamwork and Division of Labor: The characters work together and divide tasks based on their strengths to achieve a common goal.
• Responsibility and Sacrifice: Wu Changkong takes on the most challenging task (forging) to help his classmates, while Shui Yue'er accepts the repair role despite initially wanting an easier job.
• Growth and Learning: The characters are willing to learn new skills and take on challenges to improve themselves.

Character Interactions

• Wu Changkong interacts with his classmates, explaining the Battle Armor project and dividing the work among them.
• Shui Bing'er and Shui Yue'er interact as sisters, with Shui Bing'er showing concern for Wu Changkong and Shui Yue'er displaying her playful and impulsive nature.
• Xue Wu and Gu Qingbo interact, supporting each other's decisions and suggesting they help Wu Changkong with the guide.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wu Changkong informs his class that the materials needed for their battle armor are extensive and they'll visit Kangxin City during vacation to choose materials and decide on plans.
• After class, Wu Changkong goes to the blacksmith shop to work. He forges two woodcutting knives and a set of knee guards.
• Shui Bing'er and Shui Yue'er bring Wu Changkong dinner at the blacksmith shop.

Character Developments

• Wu Changkong: Shows dedication to his work, both as a student and a blacksmith. He's responsible and hardworking, reminiscent of Tang Wulin.
• Shui Bing'er: Shows concern for Wu Changkong's well-being, bringing him dinner and ensuring he doesn't work too late.
• Shui Yue'er: Demonstrates her playful and caring nature, bringing dinner to Wu Changkong and teasing him about being a teacher.

Significant Themes

• Hard Work and Dedication: Wu Changkong's commitment to both his studies and his work at the blacksmith shop highlights the importance of hard work and dedication.
• Caring and Concern: Shui Bing'er's actions show care and concern for Wu Changkong, foreshadowing potential romantic feelings.

Character Interactions

• Wu Changkong and Shui Bing'er: Their interaction shows a growing closeness and understanding between them, with Shui Bing'er showing concern for Wu Changkong's well-being.
• Wu Changkong and Big Ox: Big Ox's jealousy and curiosity about Wu Changkong's relationship with Shui Bing'er highlights the contrast between their lives and Wu Changkong's unique situation.

Chapter Summary: “People Really Can Be Infuriating by Comparison”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wu Changkong reveals to Big Ox that he is the first male student ever admitted to Skywater Academy, which traditionally accepts only girls. His exceptional talent—being a thirteen-year-old Level 39 Soul Elder—earned him special admission.
• Big Ox compares Wu’s achievements with his own slower cultivation progress and is both shocked and admiring, joking that the contrast is infuriating.
• After the smithy closes, Tie Meng learns Wu is a powerful Soul Master and is astonished that such a talented student works in an ordinary forge.
• Wu asks permission to use the smithy’s furnace to forge his own materials. After everyone leaves, he begins crafting Battle Armor components from Sinking Silver.
• He carefully heats, hammers, shapes, and quenches the metal, producing three separate breastplate pieces: the left chest, right chest, and central heart guard.
• During the process, Wu discovers that Sinking Silver deforms more easily than his blueprint predicted. He plans to revise the design and add stress-relief grooves during assembly.
• Wu works until one in the morning, cleans the smithy thoroughly, and informs Tie Meng before leaving.
• Returning late to the academy, Wu explains to the sleepy security guard that he works part-time because he spends his Soul Master subsidies quickly. The guard warns him not to exhaust himself or fall asleep in the famously strict Ling Shuang’s class.

Character Development

• Wu Changkong: His extraordinary cultivation talent is emphasized, but so are his humility, discipline, independence, and strong work ethic. He refuses to rely solely on his status as a gifted Soul Master and is willing to perform manual labor to fund and develop his own equipment. His careful forging demonstrates technical skill, patience, and perfectionism.
• Big Ox: He moves from disbelief to sincere admiration after learning Wu’s age, rank, and exceptional admission status. His reaction highlights Wu’s unusual abilities by comparison.
• Tie Meng: Initially just Wu’s employer, Tie Meng becomes impressed by Wu’s talent and character. He treats Wu warmly, allows him to use the forge freely, and expresses concern for his health.
• Security Guard: Though surprised by Wu’s late return and unusual part-time job, he responds with practical kindness and reminds Wu to balance work with school.

Significant Themes

• The pressure of comparison: Big Ox’s remark about being “infuriated” by comparison reflects the enormous gap between ordinary cultivators and Wu’s natural talent.
• Hard work versus innate ability: Despite being exceptionally gifted, Wu remains diligent and personally handles difficult forge work rather than depending only on his talent.
• Discipline and responsibility: Wu works late, carefully controls every hammer strike, records flaws in his design, and cleans the smithy after using it.
• Innovation and craftsmanship: His forging is not merely repetitive labor; he identifies weaknesses in the blueprint and plans technical improvements.
• Humility amid excellence: Wu speaks plainly about his abilities and treats Tie Meng’s workshop with respect, never acting superior despite being far stronger than the other workers.

Character Interactions

• Wu Changkong and Big Ox: Their conversation establishes Wu’s unprecedented status at Skywater Academy and Big Ox’s mixture of shock, envy, and respect.
• Wu Changkong and Tie Meng: Tie Meng recognizes Wu’s talent and offers him trust and support. Wu, in turn, calls him “Iron Uncle” and asks permission before using the forge.
• Wu Changkong and the security guard: Their late-night exchange reveals Wu’s financial pressures and willingness to work, while the guard offers concern and a warning about the consequences of overwork.
• Wu and the smithy workers: Big Ox and Old Zhou leave Wu to work alone, allowing the chapter to focus on his solitary forging and dedication.