Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xun, Black Bull (Ximen Black Bull), and the Flameglow Scarlet Ancient Lion (later named North Palace Red Lion, or Little Scarlet) travel together in a vessel.
• Little Scarlet reveals it knows about the origins of the Heavenbreak Great Rift, which was caused by something from beyond the heavens.
• Little Scarlet shares that its clan was exterminated due to this secret, and that there's a deep-seated hatred between the Spirit Beast Clan and the humans of Great Li.

Character Developments

• Little Scarlet: Initially timid and excited about flying, it gains confidence and becomes more comfortable around Chen Xun and Black Bull, eventually revealing a significant secret about its past.
• Chen Xun: Shows empathy and understanding towards Little Scarlet, encouraging it to share its knowledge about the Heavenbreak Great Rift.
• Black Bull: Demonstrates concern and support for Little Scarlet, helping it feel accepted as part of their group.

Significant Themes

• Trust and acceptance: Chen Xun and Black Bull accept Little Scarlet as an equal, fostering a sense of belonging and trust that allows it to share sensitive information.
• Hatred and conflict: The revelation of the deep-seated hatred between the Spirit Beast Clan and the humans of Great Li hints at a complex history of conflict and mistrust between the two groups.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet: They form a bond, with Chen Xun and Black Bull accepting and supporting Little Scarlet, and Little Scarlet feeling comfortable enough to share its secret.
• Black Bull and Little Scarlet: They communicate using a language of their own, bonding over their shared experiences as spirit beasts.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Humanity, after driving spirit beasts to the Heavenbreak Great Plain, tried to erase their history by slaughtering the remaining beasts and burying their past.
• The Flameglow Scarlet Ancient Lion clan was nearly wiped out, and their descendants still face persecution.
• Chen Xun discovers that Little Red (Flameglow Scarlet Ancient Lion) is from an ancient bloodline, and its clan was nearly exterminated by humans.
• Chen Xun suspects that spirit beasts in the Northern Frontier have a connection to Great Li and may have taken God-Slaying Stones with them.

Character Developments

• Little Red reveals its ancient bloodline and past, showing fear and vulnerability when faced with the God-Slaying Stone.
• Chen Xun demonstrates his analytical skills and knowledge of ancient history and cultivation.

Significant Themes

• The cruelty and consequences of humanity's actions against spirit beasts.
• The power dynamics between humans and spirit beasts, and the erasure of history to maintain power structures.
• The importance of ancient knowledge and bloodlines in understanding the present.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xun, the Black Bull, and Little Red bond over their shared secrets and pasts, with Chen Xun showing kindness and understanding towards Little Red.
• The Black Bull and Little Red realize they have much in common, leading to a sense of camaraderie.

Chapter Summary

Key plot points and events

Chen Xun reveals that Little Red’s race is being hunted for extermination and warns that Little Red may have been targeted for eventual “harvesting.” This frightens Little Red, Black Bull, and the lion, though Chen Xun quickly returns to joking. Little Red explains that breaking through to the Spirit Transformation Realm requires pushing Divine Sense beyond the limits of one’s current realm and condensing it into solid form. However, doing so greatly intensifies the heart demon tribulation, confirming that cultivation breakthroughs carry severe risks and cannot be achieved through simple shortcuts.
Chen Xun then realizes that meeting Little Red may have been fate, since the lion had wandered to the same region where Chen Xun and Black Bull found it. He invites Little Red to remain with them and jokingly outlines their “robbery” team: Black Bull handles formations, Chen Xun keeps watch, Little Red steals treasures, and Little Crane pilots their escape. Black Bull later recounts their past adventures to Little Red, strengthening their bond.
As they travel toward Great Li, Little Red officially chooses to follow Chen Xun and Black Bull. It warns them that Nascent Soul spirit beasts cannot normally be forced to serve as mounts and may self-destruct rather than submit. Chen Xun initially terrifies Little Red by pretending to order Black Bull to beat it, but the scene is clearly playful teasing. Two years later, Little Red has become inseparable from them. Chen Xun gives it a Thousand-Thread Spirit Vine artifact that conceals it from Divine Sense, and Little Red’s loyalty and lack of greed are confirmed.

Character developments

• Chen Xun shows his usual mixture of menace, humor, and warmth. Although he frightens Little Red for amusement, he genuinely values it and refuses to let it face certain death alone. He also becomes protective, giving it an artifact to keep it safe from detection.
• Black Bull remains Chen Xun’s loyal partner and enthusiastically accepts Little Red into their group. His pride in their past exploits and his excitement over Little Red’s knowledge reveal his fondness for both adventure and companionship.
• Little Red/North Palace Red Lion moves from fear and uncertainty to wholehearted acceptance of Chen Xun and Black Bull as elder brothers. Its knowledge of spirit-beast customs proves useful, while its refusal to exploit their resources demonstrates strong character and restraint.
• Little Crane is mentioned as part of their established traveling and “robbery” team, reinforcing the group’s cooperative dynamic.

Significant themes

• Cultivation as a dangerous, costly path: Advancing through Divine Sense beyond one’s natural limits can accelerate breakthroughs but makes heart demon tribulations more terrifying. Every realm requires sacrifice and carries the possibility of death.
• Fate and found family: Chen Xun interprets his meeting with Little Red as inevitable fate, while their shared travels gradually transform an accidental encounter into a genuine familial bond.
• Trust and loyalty over power: Little Red chooses to stay not because it is compelled, but because Chen Xun and Black Bull treat it with protection and acceptance. Its lack of greed further establishes that their relationship is based on character rather than material gain.
• Freedom and dignity: Little Red’s warning about Nascent Soul spirit beasts emphasizes that powerful beings cannot simply be treated as possessions. Pride, autonomy, and the willingness to die rather than submit are central to spirit-beast identity.
• Humor amid danger: Threats of extermination, cultivation tribulations, and dangerous enemies are balanced by exaggerated jokes, mock violence, and the brothers’ outrageous “robbery” stories.

Character interactions

Chen Xun repeatedly teases Little Red with frightening expressions and threats, while reassuring it that it will never go hungry or be abandoned. Black Bull enthusiastically welcomes Little Red, shares their past adventures, and works with Chen Xun to make it feel like part of the group. Little Red cautiously advises them about the dangers of capturing powerful spirit-beast mounts, showing that it is already comfortable enough to speak honestly. By the end of the chapter, their relationship has developed into a playful but sincere brotherhood built on protection, shared experiences, and mutual trust.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet arrive in Deer Platform City, Flame Origin Prefecture.
• They observe the city's harmonious coexistence of commoners and cultivators.
• They discuss their future plans, including learning teleportation methods, Spirit Transformation advancements, Buddhist teachings, and finding news about the Celestial River's banks.
• A commoner gives them copper coins, which Little Scarlet mistakenly thinks are Spirit Stones.
• They decide to take a teleportation array to another city, discovering that the arrays are controlled by the Spirit Pivot Merchant Guild.

Character Developments

• Chen Xun shows ambition and long-term planning for their journey.
• Black Bull demonstrates protectiveness and pride.
• Little Scarlet displays curiosity and naivety about the world.

Significant Themes

• The distinction between righteous and demonic paths is blurred, but Evil Cultivators are universally hunted.
• Great Li's cultivators and commoners coexist harmoniously, with cultivators not holding superiority over commoners.
• The power and influence of the Spirit Pivot Merchant Guild.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet discuss their plans and goals together.
• A commoner gives them copper coins, showing kindness and disregard for their appearance.
• Chen Xun and Black Bull interact with a Foundation Establishment cultivator from the Spirit Pivot Merchant Guild.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet travel to Cangwu City, then to Wisdom-Settling Prefecture, visiting numerous Buddhist temples and donating Spirit Stones.
• After a year, they arrive at Zen Sound Temple, which is unusual as it lacks Buddha statues and has only Golden Core Realm cultivators residing there, including an abbot.

Character Developments

• Chen Xun: Becomes more skeptical of Buddhism due to the variety of beliefs and doctrinal disputes he encounters. He remains curious and open-minded.
• Black Bull: Struggles with understanding the different Buddhist teachings and their merits. He is drawn to Zen Sound Temple's uniqueness.
• Little Scarlet: Grows more confident and observant, noticing the peculiarities of Zen Sound Temple but is initially afraid due to its past experiences with Golden Core Realm cultivators.

Significant Themes

• The diversity and complexity of Buddhist beliefs and practices.
• The importance of Spirit Stones in cultivation and travel.
• The allure of the unknown and the desire to explore unusual places.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet continue to travel together, sharing their thoughts and observations about the Buddhist temples they visit.
• Chen Xun and Black Bull decide to visit Zen Sound Temple despite Little Scarlet's initial reluctance due to its fear of Golden Core Realm cultivators.
• The Golden Core Realm cultivators at Zen Sound Temple remain composed and unconcerned about the approaching visitors.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet arrive at an ancient temple on a mountain.
• The abbot greets them, sensing their doubts and questions.
• Chen Xun asks why the temple doesn't have a Buddha statue, expressing his desire to donate incense money.
• The abbot questions their understanding of the Buddha and Merit.
• Chen Xun reveals their obsession with Merit, seeking it for the rebirth of their departed friends.
• The abbot explains that their good deeds are blessings and virtue, but not Merit.
• Chen Xun and Black Bull ask about Merit, and the abbot explains that Merit is when heart and deed are as one.

Character Developments

• Chen Xun: Struggles with his obsession over Merit, eventually asking the abbot for clarification.
• Black Bull: Shows loyalty and faith in Chen Xun's beliefs, but is also confused about Merit.
• Little Scarlet: Observes the interactions warily, assessing the danger level of the situation.
• The Abbot: Demonstrates profound wisdom and understanding, guiding Chen Xun and Black Bull without directly answering their questions.

Significant Themes

• The true meaning of Merit: The abbot explains that Merit is not about donations or good deeds, but about cultivating oneself and having heart and deed as one.
• Obsession vs. Understanding: Chen Xun's obsession with Merit clouds his understanding, but he eventually seeks clarification.
• The Great Dao's ten thousand paths: The abbot mentions that different schools in the Cultivation World have different concepts of Merit, implying the diversity of cultivation paths.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xun and Black Bull: They interact harmoniously, sharing their beliefs and seeking understanding together.
• Chen Xun and the Abbot: They engage in a philosophical conversation, with the abbot guiding Chen Xun without directly answering his questions.
• Little Scarlet and the others: Little Scarlet observes the interactions warily, not participating in the conversation but assessing the situation.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The group visits Zen Sound Temple, where the abbot holds objective views on Buddhism, unlike other temples they've visited.
• They meet the abbot's disciples: Fan Wang (Golden Core Early Stage) and Jiang Zhaocheng (Golden Core Early Stage).
• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet decide to stay at Zen Sound Temple temporarily.
• Jiang Zhaocheng reveals that Zen Sound Temple is desolate because the abbot doesn't enshrine Buddha and believes Buddhist cultivators shouldn't be confined to temples.
• Chen Xun and his companions decide to stay in the nearby forest instead of the temple.
• Jiang Zhaocheng's Fifth Junior Brother secretly eats the spirit beasts they were raising, causing a commotion.

Character Developments

• Chen Xun and Black Bull show respect and interest in the abbot's teachings, seeking to learn more.
• Jiang Zhaocheng is revealed to be from the Jiang Clan, which supports Zen Sound Temple. He is confident and outspoken, unlike a typical Buddhist cultivator.
• Fan Wang is shown to be stern and wooden, but fair and protective of his fellow disciples.

Significant Themes

• Objectivity vs. Bias: The abbot's objective view on Buddhism contrasts with the biased views of other temples they've visited.
• Freedom vs. Confinement: The abbot believes Buddhist cultivators should not be confined to temples, emphasizing freedom and personal growth.
• Affinity vs. Force: The abbot believes in cultivating through affinity, not force, reflecting the importance of natural, genuine connections.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xun and Black Bull interact with the abbot and his disciples, showing respect and curiosity.
• Jiang Zhaocheng and Fan Wang's interaction reveals their different personalities and roles within Zen Sound Temple.
• Jiang Zhaocheng's interaction with Ma Xiao (not present in the chapter but mentioned) shows his sternness and fairness as a senior brother.

Key Plot Points and Events

• A man in azure, a prodigy of commerce, receives news that his cousin is challenging him for control of valuable resources.
• He reveals that he has been waiting for fifty years and plans to return to the merchant guild after breaking through to the Nascent Soul Realm.
• He reflects on his past with his master, who had awakened to enlightenment at one year old and was unrivaled in cultivation speed.
• Little Scarlet, a spirit creature, witnesses two Nascent Soul cultivators visiting the man in azure and decides to inform its brothers.

Character Developments

• The man in azure (unnamed) shows strategic thinking and calm demeanor in handling his cousin's challenge.
• He demonstrates deep respect and admiration for his master, hinting at a complex past.
• Chen Xun and Black Bull discuss merit and cultivation, reaching a new understanding and conviction.

Significant Themes

• Merit and Cultivation: Chen Xun and Black Bull explore the concept of merit, concluding that it arises from cultivating the heart and acting upon one's convictions.
• Lineage and Identity: The man in azure grapples with his lineage's expectations and his loyalty to his master, reflecting the complexities of family and identity.
• Cultivation Prodigies: The man in azure's master is described as a prodigy, awakening at one year old and cultivating swiftly, highlighting the theme of exceptional talent.

Character Interactions

• The man in azure interacts with two Nascent Soul cultivators, showing authority and indifference.
• Chen Xun and Black Bull engage in a dialogue, demonstrating their bond and mutual growth in understanding cultivation and merit.
• Little Scarlet decides to inform its brothers about the visiting cultivators, showing a sense of duty and community.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Little Scarlet discovers a Nascent Soul Early Stage cultivator in Zen Sound Temple, wearing a mask and addressed as 'Young Master' by a Golden Core Middle Stage cultivator.
• Chen Xun and Black Bull visit the abbot to discuss their beliefs in immortals, gods, and Buddhas, seeking clarity on the possibility of reincarnation through Merit.
• The abbot reveals that Buddhas exist between Heaven and Earth, not in temples or hearts, and that scriptures are meant for others to see, not for personal cultivation.
• Chen Xun and Black Bull express their intention to head for the sea to fish, and the abbot asks them to deliver a message to Baili Zhonghu if they cross the Overseas Heavenly Pass.

Character Developments

• Chen Xun and Black Bull: They overcome their obsession with immortals, gods, and Buddhas, finding peace in cultivating for their own hearts and maintaining reverence toward all things.
• Little Scarlet: It feels embarrassed and pleased when praised by the abbot for its leisurely elegance.

Significant Themes

• The emptiness of all things in the world and the importance of cultivating one's own heart.
• The true essence of cultivating immortality lies in freedom and leisure, not in obsession with external factors.
• The importance of personal actions in cultivating Merit, rather than entrusting one's heart to the void.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xun and Black Bull: They support each other in their spiritual journey, helping each other overcome their obsessions and find clarity.
• Chen Xun and the abbot: They engage in a profound discussion about faith and cultivation, with the abbot imparting valuable insights to Chen Xun.
• Little Scarlet and the abbot: The abbot praises Little Scarlet, making it feel embarrassed and pleased.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet visit Zen Sound Temple to learn a Buddhist art for sending beings on their ascension.
• The abbot of the temple agrees to help, displaying a remarkable technique to manifest the spell's text.
• After obtaining the first half of the spell, they complete it through their own comprehension.
• One month later, they successfully use the Three Ascension Forms to destroy a century-old Crane Spirit Tree, demonstrating the spell's power.
• Two months later, they leave Great Li and arrive in West Sea State, the closest state to the overseas regions.
• In Cloudpeace City, they step out of the teleportation array, ready to earn Spirit Stones.

Character Developments

• Chen Xun: Shows determination in learning the Buddhist art and demonstrates his skill in improving the deliverance method.
• Black Bull: Reveals his craftsmanship skills and supports Chen Xun's teachings.
• Little Scarlet: Expresses his fear of being sold and shows eagerness to learn from Chen Xun and Black Bull.

Significant Themes

• The power of Buddhist arts and the importance of comprehension in cultivation.
• The dangers and opportunities of the Boundless West Sea, attracting cultivators despite the risks.
• The value of different cultivators and their cultivation levels in the eyes of others.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet work together to learn and use the Three Ascension Forms.
• Chen Xun teases Little Scarlet about selling him for Spirit Stones, showing their playful dynamic.
• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet arrive in West Sea State together, ready to face new challenges.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The group arrives in Great Li City, where they encounter a cultivator from the Riding Wind Merchant Association trying to recruit them for sea beast hunting.
• They witness an auction of sea beasts and learn about the value of sea beast Demon Cores and other parts.
• Chen Xun attempts to sell spirit herbs but faces difficulty due to the local market's preference for sea-based resources.
• After gathering travel expenses, they decide to set out to the West Sea the next day.

Character Developments

• Chen Xun demonstrates his bargaining skills and adaptability to the local market.
• Little Scarlet gains confidence and courage, showing interest in the sea and sea beasts.
• Black Bull continues to be protective and supportive of Little Scarlet.

Significant Themes

• The abundance and value of sea beast resources in the West Sea.
• The cultural and market differences between the Heavenbreak Great Plain and the West Sea State.
• The bond between Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet as brothers.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet interact playfully and supportively, demonstrating their strong bond.
• Chen Xun and the cultivator from the Riding Wind Merchant Association have a brief, polite exchange.
• Chen Xun and the man in brocade at the Alchemy Pavilion have a tense negotiation.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet prepare to leave Great Li and venture into the West Sea.
• They buy supplies, including sea beast atlases and learn about the West Sea's taboos and the importance of merchant associations for safe navigation.
• They depart from Unity City, witnessing the vastness and grandeur of the West Sea for the first time.
• They catch a large quantity of seafood using a net made from Thousand-Thread Spirit Vine, but no sea beasts.

Character Developments

• Chen Xun: Shows excitement and determination to explore the West Sea but also displays a hint of melancholy.
• Black Bull: Exhibits enthusiasm and joy in their new adventure, demonstrating its strength and skill in handling the net.
• Little Scarlet: Reveals curiosity and eagerness to try Brother Xun's cooking.

Significant Themes

• The vastness and unpredictability of the ocean, symbolizing the unknown and the challenges they will face.
• The importance of preparation and knowledge (sea beast atlases, learning taboos) for navigating the West Sea.
• The thrill and satisfaction of the hunt, as seen through their successful catch of seafood.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet work together to cast the net and catch seafood, showcasing their teamwork and camaraderie.
• Chen Xun shares his knowledge and experience with Black Bull and Little Scarlet, guiding them in their new endeavor.
• Black Bull and Little Scarlet express their excitement and joy in their new adventure, reinforcing their bond as brothers.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet grill skewers on the deck, discussing their journey and the uncharted island ahead.
• They discover an uninhabited island with dense spiritual energy, claiming it as their own.
• A white giant ape attacks them, but Black Bull and Little Scarlet easily defeat it.
• Chen Xun suspects the ape's sudden appearance was due to a teleportation array.
• A storm approaches, and five black-robed figures with ghost lamps arrive, asking to borrow their giant vessel.

Character Developments

• Chen Xun remains calm and composed, showing strategic thinking and suspicion about the ape's appearance.
• Black Bull demonstrates his strength and courage, standing up to the white giant ape.
• Little Scarlet shows his prowess in battle, scorching the ape with his flames, but also reveals his cowardice when faced with the black-robed figures.

Significant Themes

• The danger and unpredictability of the West Sea, with sudden storms and mysterious visitors.
• The power dynamics between cultivators and spirit beasts, and among cultivators themselves.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet bond over grilling skewers and enjoying the sea.
• Black Bull and Little Scarlet work together to defeat the white giant ape, showcasing their teamwork.
• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet face the black-robed figures together, displaying unity and readiness to confront danger.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet encounter a group of Great Li Evil Cultivators on an uncharted island.
• The cultivators, numbering nine, include three Nascent Soul Middle Stage, two Nascent Soul Early Stage, and the rest in the Golden Core Realm.
• The cultivators form a "Profound Yin Baleful-Annihilating Spirit Array" to attack, which Black Bull counters with a Five-Elements Array.
• Three cultivators engage Black Bull in combat, while two others attack Chen Xun using God-Slaying Artifacts.
• Chen Xun defends against the attack using a spiritual-power barrier and reveals his true power.
• The old woman commands the summoning of a Ghost Infant to combat Chen Xun.

Character Developments

• Chen Xun demonstrates his true strength and reveals his Nascent Soul Realm, surprising the cultivators.
• Black Bull showcases its formidable combat abilities, holding its own against three Nascent Soul cultivators.
• Little Scarlet is terrified by the powerful opponents and the strange spiritual energy on the island.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and the dangers of underestimating opponents.
• The use of arrays and magical artifacts in combat.
• The reveal of Chen Xun's true strength and his resolve to protect his companions.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xun and Black Bull work together to defend against the cultivators' attacks, showing a strong bond.
• Little Scarlet relies on Chen Xun for protection and is awestruck by his power.
• The Great Li Evil Cultivators communicate briefly, revealing their willingness to use deadly force and their growing unease about Chen Xun's strength.

Chapter Summary: “Forgiving You Is the Buddha’s Business”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xun reveals the overwhelming power of his enormous Nascent Soul, completely suppressing the two black-robed Nascent Soul cultivators who had attacked them.
• He slams both enemies into the ground while Black Bull’s formation traps the remaining members of the group. None of the Soulfall Hall cultivators can escape.
• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet activate the Ascension Immortal Formation. The formation binds, burns, and slowly destroys the enemies’ bodies, Nascent Souls, and ghost infants.
• When an old woman begs for mercy and identifies the group as members of Soulfall Hall, Chen Xun mockingly replies that forgiveness belongs to the Buddha, while they are responsible for sending the cultivators to him.
• The three combine their powers to obliterate every black-robed cultivator completely, leaving no bodies, souls, or possibility of reincarnation.
• Little Scarlet collects the enemies’ storage rings, while Black Bull destroys their five boats, ensuring there are no surviving traces of the encounter.
• The group returns to the shore and searches the storage rings. They discover sea charts, cultivation manuals, formation texts, spirit medicines, pill formulas, and over two hundred thousand Mid-Grade Spirit Stones.
• The manuals confirm that Soulfall Hall practices cruel Evil Cultivation, including refining other cultivators’ Golden Cores and Nascent Souls.
• Chen Xun realizes that Soulfall Hall is a powerful faction, possibly containing Nascent Soul Late Stage cultivators, and orders the group to preserve useful information while destroying potentially dangerous texts.
• At sunrise, Chen Xun decides that Little Scarlet’s loyal service should be rewarded by helping it advance its cultivation.
• Meanwhile, Soulfall Hall’s purple-haired leader discovers that five Nascent Soul cultivators have died simultaneously. Unable to trace their deaths or identify the attackers, he suppresses his anger and decides the matter must be investigated secretly.

Character Developments

• Chen Xun demonstrates his immense strength and ruthless decisiveness. He protects his companions while treating the Evil Cultivators’ destruction as an act of justice. His concern for Black Bull and intention to improve Little Scarlet’s cultivation also reveal his deep loyalty and affection toward his companions.
• Black Bull proves highly capable in both combat and technical matters. It controls the formation, helps destroy the enemies, and expertly removes the traps from the storage rings using the Five-Elements Barrier-Breaking Method.
• Little Scarlet gains tremendous admiration for Chen Xun and Black Bull after witnessing their reliability and overwhelming power. Its excitement over the group’s unexpected wealth reflects its innocence and gratitude. Its faithful service earns Chen Xun’s recognition and planned reward.
• The Soulfall Hall cultivators shift from arrogant attackers to helpless, terrified victims once trapped by the formation. Their desperation emphasizes the gap between their confidence and Chen Xun’s actual strength.
• Soulfall Hall’s purple-haired leader is introduced as a powerful and cautious figure. Although enraged by the deaths of five Nascent Soul cultivators, he recognizes that the unknown enemy may be stronger than himself and chooses investigation over reckless retaliation.

Significant Themes

• Justice and retribution: Chen Xun frames the destruction of the Evil Cultivators as “upholding justice” and aiding the weak, though his methods are absolute and merciless.
• Loyalty and brotherhood: The battle highlights the trust and cooperation among Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet. Their teamwork allows them to defeat a large group without suffering meaningful losses.
• The danger of Evil Cultivation: The storage manuals expose Soulfall Hall’s exploitation of other cultivators, reinforcing the group’s status as genuinely depraved enemies.
• Power and hidden strength: Chen Xun’s enormous Nascent Soul and effortless victory reveal that appearances and cultivation stages do not accurately reflect his true power.
• Rewards from danger: The group’s discovery of enormous wealth turns a deadly confrontation into a fortunate opportunity, contributing to the story’s humorous, adventurous tone.
• Untraceable consequences: Because Soulfall Hall’s members leave no remains or soul traces, the group avoids immediate retaliation, but their actions create a looming conflict with the wider faction.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xun reassures and praises Black Bull after the fight, while Black Bull responds with smug confidence.
• Little Scarlet looks to its two elder brothers with admiration and excitement, treating their victory and the recovered treasure as a shared family triumph.
• The three coordinate perfectly during the Ascension Immortal Formation, chanting and combining their mana to annihilate the trapped cultivators.
• Chen Xun assigns practical tasks: Little Scarlet copies the valuable sea charts, while Black Bull examines and destroys dangerous manuals.
• The chapter ends by contrasting the companions’ relaxed joy over their spoils with Soulfall Hall’s leader, whose fury and uncertainty signal future danger.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet find a body-tempering manual among the loot from the Heavenbreak Great Rift, which uses flesh and blood of cultivation creatures.
• Chen Xun decides to explore the Forbidden Sea—Demon Nest, an ancient battlefield with numerous opportunities and dangers, to collect corpses and storage rings.
• They set sail, concealing their vessel with Black Bull's Five-Elements Array Flags to avoid detection.
• Chen Xun gives Little Scarlet Nascent Soul Realm spirit herbs to help it cultivate, despite its initial refusal.

Character Developments

• Chen Xun demonstrates his strategic thinking and resourcefulness, planning to exploit the opportunities in the Demon Nest.
• Black Bull shows loyalty and obedience to Chen Xun, following his orders without question.
• Little Scarlet reveals its reluctance to cultivate due to the vast resources required for its Flameglow Scarlet Ancient Lion clan, but eventually accepts Chen Xun's spirit herbs after being persuaded.

Significant Themes

• Greed and ambition, as Chen Xun seeks to exploit the opportunities in the Demon Nest for personal gain.
• Loyalty and camaraderie, as Black Bull and Little Scarlet follow Chen Xun's orders and accept his guidance.
• The vast difference in cultivation resources between humans and beast clans, highlighting the challenges faced by Little Scarlet in its cultivation.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xun interacts with Black Bull and Little Scarlet, giving orders and providing guidance.
• Black Bull and Little Scarlet interact with each other, working together to clear the scene and prepare for their journey.
• Chen Xun and Little Scarlet have a conversation about cultivation resources and Little Scarlet's reluctance to cultivate, ultimately leading to Little Scarlet accepting Chen Xun's spirit herbs.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Cultivators from various powers journey towards the Forbidden Sea, facing numerous sea beasts and lingering wills of powerful beings.
• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet observe these events from a distance, deciding to enter the Forbidden Sea to collect cultivators' corpses for their souls' resting place.

Character Developments

• Chen Xun demonstrates his power by dispersing a cluster of purple qi mist, attracting unwanted attention.
• Black Bull shows concern for Chen Xun's safety and willingness to protect him.
• Little Scarlet displays fear but also curiosity and eagerness to explore the Forbidden Sea.

Significant Themes

• Risk and Reward: The cultivators entering the Forbidden Sea face great dangers but also stand to gain immense rewards.
• Power and Respect: Only those with sufficient power are respected and can navigate the treacherous Forbidden Sea.
• Death and Afterlife: The focus on collecting cultivators' corpses for their souls' resting place highlights the importance of the afterlife in this world.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet work together, with Black Bull driving the ship and Chen Xun using his power to navigate through dangers.
• Chen Xun shows concern for Black Bull's safety, while Black Bull is protective of Chen Xun.
• The cultivators on other ships show no reaction to Chen Xun's group, suggesting they are either unaware of their presence or choose to ignore them.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet enter the Forbidden Sea, facing immense pressure from ancient wills that target their unique wills.
• They encounter an ancient, wrecked ship, and Little Scarlet guides them to avoid a collision.
• A terrifying will of slaughter emerges from the sea around the ship, targeting the trio.

Character Developments

• Chen Xun remains calm and strategic, using himself as bait to draw the ancient wills while protecting his companions.
• Black Bull demonstrates loyalty and protectiveness towards Chen Xun and Little Scarlet, clearing paths for them.
• Little Scarlet reveals an ability to see through falsehoods using its Flameglow Divine Sense, helping them navigate the ship.

Significant Themes

• The power of ancient wills and their ability to suppress cultivators based on their strength.
• The dangers and treasures hidden in the Forbidden Sea, reflecting the dual nature of cultivation.
• The importance of unity and cooperation among the trio, showcasing their growing bond.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xun and Black Bull work together to resist the ancient wills, demonstrating their strong bond and trust in each other.
• Little Scarlet relies on Chen Xun and Black Bull for protection while using its unique ability to explore the ancient ship, showing their interdependence.
• Chen Xun shows concern for Little Scarlet's safety, kicking it away from danger and reassuring it before it goes to inspect the ship.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet encounter an ancient ship in the Forbidden Sea, emitting a purple qi mist.
• They initially believe it's a cultivator battlefield remnant but later find it strange and dangerous.
• Little Scarlet discovers a storage ring on a skeleton inside the ship, triggering an awakening of a terrifying will.
• They flee the ship, and it resumes drifting, emitting a heaven-shaking will that fails to find its target.
• They find a storage ring containing a token from 'War Realm Camp' and an unsent blood letter, written in essence blood, with a brief, sorrowful message.
• Chen Xun decides to explore the Forbidden Sea further, undeterred by the lack of immediate gains.

Character Developments

• Chen Xun: Shows concern for his companions' safety, displays knowledge of ancient cultivator history, and remains determined despite setbacks.
• Black Bull: Demonstrates loyalty and concern for Chen Xun's well-being, works well with Little Scarlet in their respective roles.
• Little Scarlet: Proves useful with its unique Flameglow Divine Sense, shows eagerness for treasure, and follows Chen Xun's lead.

Significant Themes

• The weight of history and the passage of time, as seen in the ancient ship, the blood letter, and the War Realm Camp token.
• The power of Divine Sense and its limitations, as demonstrated by Little Scarlet's unique ability and Chen Xun's recognition of its innate gifts.
• The importance of knowledge and experience over immediate gains, as Chen Xun prioritizes exploring the Forbidden Sea further.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet work together as a team, with Chen Xun leading, Black Bull providing strength, and Little Scarlet using its unique abilities.
• Chen Xun shows concern and care for his companions, while Black Bull and Little Scarlet show loyalty and eagerness to please him.
• Chen Xun shares his thoughts and knowledge with his companions, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Xun, Black Bull, and Little Scarlet encounter an Ancient Ship and a fleet of cultivators who have been killed and turned into corpses.
• Chen Xun and Black Bull suppress the Ancient Ship's will while Little Scarlet retrieves the cultivators' storage rings.
• Chen Xun performs funeral rites for the cultivators, and they ascend to immortality.
• The group finds a massive amount of Spirit Stones in the retrieved storage rings.

Character Developments

• Chen Xun: He demonstrates his power and wisdom by suppressing the Ancient Ship's will and performing funeral rites for the cultivators. He also reveals his understanding of cultivation as the accumulation of endless resources.
• Black Bull: It supports Chen Xun in suppressing the Ancient Ship's will and understands Chen Xun's perspective on cultivation.
• Little Scarlet: It shows its agility and cunning in retrieving the storage rings and is overwhelmed by the abundance of cultivation resources they find.

Significant Themes

• The power of cultivation and the importance of resources in advancing one's cultivation.
• The dangers and mysteries of the Forbidden Sea.
• The value of life and the respect for the deceased, as shown by Chen Xun performing funeral rites.

Character Interactions

• Chen Xun and Black Bull work together to suppress the Ancient Ship's will, demonstrating their trust and understanding of each other.
• Little Scarlet follows Chen Xun's instructions and retrieves the storage rings, showing its loyalty and obedience.
• The three characters share a moment of excitement and understanding when they discover the vast amount of Spirit Stones, highlighting their camaraderie.