Ch. 161The Ice Emperor Restores His Strength
Chapter Summary: “The Ice Emperor Restores His Strength”
Key Plot Points and Events
- Yao Tianhuo questions why Xie Tianxiao is cautious about the Tou She Ancient God Jade, since it was easily taken from Xiao Zhan, the Xiao Clan’s strongest current member.
- Xie explains that the Xiao Clan was once extraordinarily powerful and that the jade is connected to forces he cannot afford to underestimate.
- They discuss a mysterious Eight-Star Dou Zong who recently visited or approached the Xiao Clan. Based on his clothing, abilities, and secrecy, Xie suspects he was sent by the Ancient Clan, possibly because of Gu Xun’er and Xiao Yan’s connection to the Xiao Clan.
- Xie rewards Yao Tianhuo for completing the mission by promising to take him to the Central Plains and have a ninth-tier alchemist create a superior physical body for him.
- Yao Tianhuo reports that Haole returned to the Misty Cloud Sect. Xie warns that Haole’s womanizing behavior must not create trouble for Yun Yun.
- Yao Tianhuo apologizes for previously injuring Medusa, explaining that he acted while assisting Yun Yun. Xie forgives him because Medusa was unharmed.
- The following day, Xie visits the Mite’er Family in the imperial capital to see Ya Fei.
- He discovers that Ice Emperor Hai Bo Dong is present and has recovered to the strength of a two-star Dou Emperor, apparently fulfilling his goal of restoring his cultivation.
Character Developments
- Xie Tianxiao demonstrates strategic caution and growing authority. Although he easily obtained the jade, he remains alert to the Xiao Clan’s hidden history and powerful connections.
- Yao Tianhuo becomes more firmly loyal to Xie after being promised a new body refined by a ninth-tier alchemist. He is grateful for Xie’s past help and now sees the possibility of reaching the continent’s highest realms.
- Haole is characterized as loyal but reckless and overly fond of women. Xie makes clear that loyalty will not protect him if he causes trouble for Yun Yun.
- Ya Fei remains affectionate toward Xie and reacts with shy happiness when he visits, showing that their intimate relationship has continued despite his long absence.
- Hai Bo Dong has successfully regained substantial strength, rising to the two-star Dou Emperor level.
Significant Themes
- The danger of hidden backgrounds: The apparently weak Xiao Clan may possess a powerful ancient heritage, making the Ancient God Jade far more important than it initially appears.
- Loyalty and reward: Xie Tianxiao rewards sincere service generously, promising Yao Tianhuo a new body and greater opportunities.
- Power and restoration: Yao Tianhuo’s anticipated revival and Hai Bo Dong’s recovery both emphasize the return of lost strength and the pursuit of higher realms.
- Caution amid political conflict: The possible involvement of the Ancient Clan and Hun Clan suggests that the Xiao Clan is becoming the center of a larger struggle among powerful factions.
- Personal bonds and responsibility: Xie maintains close relationships with Yun Yun and Ya Fei while also taking responsibility for conflicts involving Medusa and his subordinates.
Character Interactions
- Xie Tianxiao and Yao Tianhuo: They discuss the jade, the Xiao Clan, and the mysterious Dou Zong. Xie praises Yao Tianhuo’s service and offers him a new body.
- Xie Tianxiao and Haole: Though Haole is absent, Xie sends a warning that his behavior must not trouble Yun Yun.
- Xie Tianxiao and Medusa: Xie accepts Yao Tianhuo’s apology for injuring Medusa, acknowledging that Yun Yun had ordered the assistance.
- Xie Tianxiao and Yun Yun: After spending the night with Yun Yun, he asks her to help settle matters concerning Ya Fei before leaving.
- Xie Tianxiao and Ya Fei: Their reunion is affectionate and intimate, with Ya Fei visibly delighted and shyly accepting his embrace.
- Xie Tianxiao and Hai Bo Dong: Xie recognizes Hai Bo Dong’s restored cultivation and wonders whether Yao Chen and Xiao Yan helped him refine the Po-E Pill without using Heavenly Flames.