Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yang Ling consumes the Water Bodhi, gaining massive attribute increases over three hours.
• He levels up multiple times, gaining free attribute points and approaching Perfect Mastery in several internal arts.
• The Water Bodhi's effects last for three hours, raising Yang Ling by three levels.

Character Developments

• Yang Ling's attributes skyrocket, with his health reaching 3,000 and Vital Blood tripling to 1,500.
• His Mental Power reaches 160, and he gains 33 free attribute points.
• Several of his martial arts approach or reach Perfect Mastery.

Significant Themes

• The power of the Water Bodhi and its impact on Yang Ling's growth.
• The importance of Mental Power and Vital Blood in martial arts.
• The connection between attribute points and martial arts grades.

Character Interactions

• Yang Ling interacts briefly with Zhang Shendao and the others, but he is too focused on his internal changes to respond.
• Mian Zhengdong, Li Shou, and the others evacuate quickly, sensing potential danger.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yang Ling allocates 33 free attribute points to strength, doubling it from 24 to 57.
• He experiences physical changes, growing slightly taller, and notices increased speed.
• Yang Ling plans to use his pills to advance his cultivation arts.
• He encounters two Seventh Grade experts from Star-Gazing Academy who attempt to ambush him with a rope, but fail due to Yang Ling's enhanced strength and Indestructible Vajra Body.
• Yang Ling kills the two experts and later encounters another group of five Star-Gazing Academy disciples. He kills four of them, leaving one alive who begs for mercy. Yang Ling kills him as well.

Character Developments

• Yang Ling's strength attribute increases significantly, leading to physical changes and enhanced speed.
• He demonstrates his ability to quickly assess and respond to threats, as well as his ruthlessness in eliminating enemies.

Significant Themes

• The power of cultivation and attribute points.
• The ruthlessness and necessity of self-preservation in a dangerous environment.
• The disparity in strength and the consequences of underestimating opponents.

Character Interactions

• Yang Ling interacts briefly with the two Seventh Grade experts and the group of five disciples from Star-Gazing Academy, all of whom he kills.
• There's no significant interaction with other characters in this chapter.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yang Ling leaves after dealing with the Star-Gazing Academy disciples, but two survivors witness the scene.
• He Yang, the master of the Heavenly Star Sect, is found injured. Yang Ling saves him and brings him back to the cold pool.
• Martial Artists who have returned early gather at the cold pool. He Yang reveals the Star-Gazing Academy disciples' misdeeds.
• Yang Ling secretly removes silver needles from giant frogs' brows, neutralizing Copper One's traps.
• Martial Artists start leaving as the Water Qilin's awakening nears. Zhang Shendao and the others arrive and depart with Yang Ling's urging.

Character Developments

• Yang Ling: Shows his extraordinary abilities and compassion by saving He Yang and neutralizing traps to protect other Martial Artists.
• He Yang: Initially portrayed as a villain, he becomes a victim and a witness to the Star-Gazing Academy disciples' crimes.
• Copper One: Revealed to have set traps using giant frogs, showing his cunning and strategic thinking.

Significant Themes

• Trust and betrayal among Martial Artists.
• The consequences of greed and reckless actions.
• The power dynamics between sects and individuals.

Character Interactions

• Yang Ling and He Yang: Yang Ling saves He Yang, who then testifies against the Star-Gazing Academy disciples.
• He Yang and other Martial Artists: He Yang's revelation about the Star-Gazing Academy disciples causes unease and fear among the other Martial Artists.
• Yang Ling and Copper One: Yang Ling secretly counteracts Copper One's traps, setting the stage for potential future conflict.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The group is ambushed by Rong Tribe spies, including Copper Thirteen and Copper One, who can summon tamed beasts.
• Yang Ling draws the enemy's firepower, allowing the Fourth Prince's group to retreat safely.
• Copper One summons Demonic Frogs, which attack Yang Ling. Copper Thirteen and his men abandon Copper One to protect their Second Grade Human Immortal captive.
• Yang Ling reveals he had earlier removed the silver needles from the Demonic Frogs, causing them to attack Copper One.
• The group engages in a battle with Copper Thirteen's men, trying to prevent them from escaping with the Second Grade Human Immortal.
• The Water Qilin is about to awaken, and its heartbeat causes disorientation. Both sides retreat to the cold pool.

Character Developments

• Yang Ling: Shows quick thinking and strategic planning, removing the silver needles from the Demonic Frogs and drawing enemy fire to protect the group.
• Fourth Prince: Demonstrates strong martial foundations and leadership, leading his group in battle and making tactical decisions.
• Copper Thirteen: Shows loyalty to his mission and the Rong Tribe, prioritizing the escape of the Second Grade Human Immortal over his comrades.
• Copper One: Dies due to the backlash of the Beast Taming Art, highlighting the risks associated with the skill.

Significant Themes

• Loyalty vs. Self-Preservation: Copper Thirteen's loyalty to his mission contrasts with his men's self-preservation instincts, as seen in their abandonment of Copper One.
• Quick Thinking and Adaptation: Yang Ling's actions showcase the importance of quick thinking and adaptability in critical situations.

Character Interactions

• Yang Ling and the Fourth Prince: Yang Ling's actions allow the Fourth Prince's group to retreat safely, strengthening their bond.
• Copper Thirteen and Copper One: Copper Thirteen's decision to abandon Copper One highlights the ruthless nature of their mission and the Rong Tribe's priorities.
• Both groups: The battle between the Fourth Prince's group and Copper Thirteen's men showcases their determination to prevent the Rong Tribe from gaining another Second Grade Human Immortal.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yang Ling retrieves the ice sculpture, but it's frozen solid again, and the pool starts freezing over.
• Everyone flees the pool, with Yang Ling escorting the Fourth Prince.
• The passage freezes shut, leaving one Rong Tribe spy frozen inside.
• Everyone surfaces, and the Fourth Prince orders the sealing of the Tianyuan River to capture remaining Rong Tribe spies.
• The Fourth Prince praises Yang Ling's actions and acknowledges Yun Ruo's role in killing Copper Five.
• Gu Weizhou accuses the Star-Gazing Academy of attacking and robbing the Heavenly Star Sect, seeking justice from the Fourth Prince.

Character Developments

• Yang Ling: Proves himself as a capable and loyal constable, killing two Copper-ranked spies and retrieving the ice sculpture.
• Yun Ruo: Acknowledges killing Copper Five, maintaining the Iron Garment Division's honor.
• Gu Weizhou: Seeks justice for the Heavenly Star Sect's accusation against the Star-Gazing Academy, showing his commitment to the academy's reputation.

Significant Themes

• Loyalty and Betrayal: Yang Ling's loyalty contrasts with the spies' betrayal, highlighting the importance of trust and allegiance.
• Justice and Responsibility: The Fourth Prince's role in maintaining justice and holding those accountable for their actions is emphasized.
• Honor and Reputation: The Iron Garment Division and Star-Gazing Academy strive to preserve their honor and reputations amidst accusations and betrayals.

Character Interactions

• Yang Ling and the Fourth Prince: Yang Ling earns the Fourth Prince's respect and recognition for his actions.
• Yang Ling and Yun Ruo: Yang Ling acknowledges Yun Ruo's role in killing Copper Five, fostering a sense of camaraderie.
• Gu Weizhou and the Fourth Prince: Gu Weizhou seeks the Fourth Prince's intervention in the Heavenly Star Sect's accusation against the Star-Gazing Academy.

Key Plot Points and Events

• He Yang is severely injured by a tripwire ambush in Water Qilin Cave.
• Yang Ling reveals that Star-Gazing Academy disciples were responsible for the ambush and had been harming and robbing Martial Artists.
• The Fourth Prince questions Gu Weizhou about the actions of his academy's disciples.
• Yang Ling presents evidence and argues for the justification of killing the Star-Gazing Academy disciples.
• The Fourth Prince reveals that the Rong Tribe was after a Second Grade Human Immortal trapped in Water Qilin Cave for 240 years.
• The Fourth Prince explains that the Human Immortal was born into the Rong Tribe and was a spy.
• A mysterious figure arrives on a golden eagle, revealing that the Iron Garment Division knew about the Human Immortal's true origins.

Character Developments

• Yang Ling: Shows bravery and quick thinking in dealing with the Star-Gazing Academy disciples, earning respect from the Fourth Prince.
• Gu Weizhou: Struggles to defend his academy's reputation amidst accusations of harboring Rong Tribe spies.
• The Fourth Prince: Demonstrates wisdom and calm in handling the situation, showing concern for the Zhao Kingdom's safety.

Significant Themes

• Trust and Betrayal: The revelation of the Second Grade Human Immortal's true origins raises questions about trust and loyalty among allies.
• Consequences of Actions: The actions of the Star-Gazing Academy disciples have severe consequences, affecting not only their academy but also the entire Zhao Kingdom.

Character Interactions

• Yang Ling vs. Gu Weizhou: Yang Ling's accusations put Gu Weizhou on the defensive, straining the relationship between the two.
• The Fourth Prince vs. Gu Weizhou: The Fourth Prince's interrogation of Gu Weizhou highlights the power dynamics between the royal family and the academies.
• Yang Ling and the Fourth Prince: The Fourth Prince's praise of Yang Ling's kick signals a growing respect and potential alliance between them.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Xun, a Fifth Grade expert from the Iron Garment Division, arrives on the scene.
• He reveals that the Iron Garment Division knew about the Rong Tribe spy but kept it secret to use him as bait.
• The Sky Wolf Guard's intervention was due to learning the spy's true identity.
• Zhao Xun praises Yang Ling's actions in Water Qilin Cave and reveals that Shi Xin recommended him to join the Iron Garment Division.

Character Developments

• Zhao Xun: Revealed to be Shi Xin's patron in Kyoto, a Fifth Grade royal, and the leader of the Iron Garment Division's operation.
• Yang Ling: Gains recognition from Zhao Xun for his actions in Water Qilin Cave, potentially securing a spot in the Iron Garment Division.

Significant Themes

• Power Dynamics: The Iron Garment Division's secret plot and the Sky Wolf Guard's intervention highlight the complex power struggles among different factions.
• Trust and Betrayal: The leak of the spy's identity and the Iron Garment Division's deception toward their allies emphasize the theme of trust and betrayal.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Xun and Yang Ling: Zhao Xun praises Yang Ling's actions and expresses support for his recommendation by Shi Xin, potentially forming an alliance.
• Yang Ling and Other Martial Artists: Yang Ling gains respect and admiration from other martial artists present due to his actions in Water Qilin Cave.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The officials of Cloud Pattern Provincial Capital react to Zhao Xun's interest in Yang Ling.
• Yang Ling warns about the Immortal Gods Sect's destructive explosives.
• The Fourth Prince, Zhao Xun, and others discuss the Immortal Gods Sect's threat.
• The Iron Garment Division plans to purge the Immortal Gods Sect.
• The Water Qilin leaves the provincial capital, causing a commotion but not revealing itself.
• The Rong Tribe spies escape, causing significant losses to the Sky Wolf Guard.

Character Developments

• Yang Ling gains Zhao Xun's attention and is praised, increasing his standing among the officials.
• The Fourth Prince shows concern for the Immortal Gods Sect's threat and the Sky Wolf Guard's losses.
• Zhao Xun demonstrates his authority and decisiveness in handling the rare herbs and the Water Qilin's departure.
• Xu Wuji shows his loyalty and dedication to the Fourth Prince by reporting the Sky Wolf Guard's losses.

Significant Themes

• The threat posed by the Immortal Gods Sect and their destructive explosives.
• The power and awe of the legendary Water Qilin.
• The political intrigue and competition among the officials of Cloud Pattern Provincial Capital.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Xun praises Yang Ling, causing envy among the other officials.
• The Fourth Prince, Zhao Xun, and Xu Wuji discuss the Immortal Gods Sect's threat and the Sky Wolf Guard's losses.
• Yang Ling and Cao Junxiong discuss a private matter, hinting at potential cooperation or information exchange.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yang Ling leaves Cao Junxiong's room feeling refreshed and decides to cultivate the Heavenly Will True Scripture to Perfect Mastery upon returning to the Cloud Pattern Provincial Capital.
• He is approached by two Dead Valley disciples who want to buy his exotic flowers and herbs, as they are of exceptionally high quality and can improve alchemy outcomes.
• Yang Ling agrees to sell three bags of exotic flowers and herbs to Dead Valley, but one bag must be sold to the Medicine Gang in Long River Prefecture first.
• He meets other Iron Garment constables and Martial Artists from various factions waiting for appraisals at Dead Valley's reception hall on the third level of the massive ship.
• Elder Qin, the leading Dead Valley elder, appraises Yang Ling's exotic flowers and herbs, valuing them at around thirty thousand taels in total.
• Yang Ling decides to exchange the exotic flowers and herbs for Spirit-Nourishing Pills, as Foundation-Nourishing Pills are scarce and reserved for others.

Character Developments

• Yang Ling demonstrates his business acumen and willingness to trade, showing that he is not solely focused on cultivation but also on resource management.
• Elder Qin displays his expertise in appraising exotic flowers and herbs, as well as his honesty in dealing with Yang Ling.

Significant Themes

• The value of exotic flowers and herbs in alchemy and their scarcity in the outside world.
• The importance of cultivating both martial arts and business acumen for Martial Artists.
• The limited availability of high-level cultivation resources, such as Foundation-Nourishing Pills.

Character Interactions

• Yang Ling interacts with two Dead Valley disciples, Elder Qin, and other Iron Garment constables, showcasing his polite and respectful demeanor despite his growing status and power.
• Li Huaiyi, an old acquaintance of Yang Ling, is present but avoids interacting with him, highlighting the tension between them.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yang Ling appraises exotic flowers and rare herbs with Elder Qin.
• He advances Void-Crossing Step to Advanced Mastery using Spirit-Nourishing Pills.
• Yang Ling consumes a Frost Cinnabar Fruit, gaining 10 free attribute points, which he allocates to Strength.

Character Developments

• Yang Ling's Void-Crossing Step proficiency increases to 66006/100000, then to 100000/100000, advancing to Advanced Mastery.
• He consumes a Frost Cinnabar Fruit, increasing his Strength by 10 points (equivalent to 10 levels).

Significant Themes

• Cultivation and Advancement: Yang Ling's continuous improvement in martial arts proficiency and attributes.
• Opportunity and Seizing the Moment: Yang Ling takes advantage of the Frost Cinnabar Fruit when he sees it.

Character Interactions

• Yang Ling interacts with Elder Qin, who appraises the exotic flowers and rare herbs and expresses admiration for Yang Ling's dedication to cultivation.
• Yang Ling decides to consume the Frost Cinnabar Fruit himself instead of selling it, showing his determination to improve his strength.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yang Ling discovers his base strength has surpassed his base agility due to his gains in Water Qilin Cave.
• He decides to keep some money and gives the rest of his exotic flowers and herbs to the Medicine Gang in memory of Dai Huaijin.
• Lu Yunchen offers Yang Ling the position of chief administrator of the First Public Security Division branch in Long River Prefecture.

Character Developments

• Yang Ling shows empathy and respect for Dai Huaijin's memory, demonstrating his character and integrity.
• Lu Yunchen shows favoritism towards Yang Ling, recognizing his potential and offering him a significant promotion.

Significant Themes

• Recognition and reward for merit and hard work (Yang Ling's promotion).
• Loyalty and respect for the deceased (Yang Ling's actions towards Dai Huaijin).
• Power dynamics and alliances within the martial world (the Medicine Gang's backing and the Iron Garment Division's hierarchy).

Character Interactions

• Yang Ling and Elder Qin discuss the Medicine Gang's background and Yang Ling's decision to give them the exotic flowers and herbs.
• Lu Yunchen offers Yang Ling the chief administrator position, showing his confidence in Yang Ling's abilities and potential.
• Yang Ling and Yun Ruo discuss the implications of Yang Ling's promotion on her career path, showing mutual respect and understanding.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yang Ling agrees to take on the vacant supervisor position at the Third Division of the Public Security Division in Long River Prefecture.
• Qin Mo requests to transfer to Long River Prefecture to follow Yang Ling.
• The Fourth Prince, Zhao Xun, and other officials see off the various sects and factions after the Water Qilin Cave incident.
• Yang Ling is invited to join the Extreme Flame Sword Palace as an outer sect disciple.

Character Developments

• Yang Ling demonstrates his consideration for his superior, Sun Biao, showing his character as a responsible and thoughtful individual.
• Qin Mo expresses his admiration for Yang Ling's abilities and requests to learn from him.
• Lin Caiyi shows familiarity with Yang Ling, hinting at a potential connection between them.
• Pei Ran of the Extreme Flame Sword Palace invites Yang Ling to join their sect, indicating a change in his initial disdain for Yang Ling.

Significant Themes

• Responsibility and Gratitude: Yang Ling shows concern for his superior, Sun Biao, and is praised for his consideration by Lu Yunchen.
• Ambition and Aspiration: Qin Mo's eagerness to learn from Yang Ling reflects his ambition and desire to improve himself.
• Power Dynamics: The interactions between the various sects and factions highlight the complex power dynamics at play in the cultivation world.

Character Interactions

• Yang Ling and Lu Yunchen: Lu Yunchen praises Yang Ling for his thoughtfulness and offers him a promotion and concurrent position.
• Yang Ling and Qin Mo: Qin Mo expresses his admiration for Yang Ling and requests to follow him, showing a mentor-mentee dynamic.
• Yang Ling and Lin Caiyi: Lin Caiyi's familiarity with Yang Ling hints at a potential romantic interest or close friendship.
• Yang Ling and Pei Ran: Pei Ran's invitation to join the Extreme Flame Sword Palace shows a change in his attitude towards Yang Ling, potentially indicating a new alliance or mutual respect.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gu Weizhou, the headmaster of Star-Gazing Academy, is accused of orchestrating the deaths of Heaven Star Sect's disciples in Water Qilin Cave.
• Gu Weizhou refuses to compensate Heaven Star Sect, and the case is referred to the Iron Garment Division.
• Wang the Blacksmith, a witness, confirms selling horse-tripping ropes to Gu Weizhou.
• Gu Weizhou is arrested and imprisoned, while Star-Gazing Academy disciples are placed under house arrest.
• He Yang, Heaven Star Sect leader, expresses gratitude towards Yang Ling for his role in the case.

Character Developments

• Gu Weizhou: Initially arrogant, he surrenders without resistance when faced with Xu Wuji, revealing his cowardice.
• He Yang: Expresses gratitude towards Yang Ling for saving his life and ensuring justice for his sect.
• Yang Ling: Demonstrates professionalism and impartiality in handling the case, earning respect from other sect leaders.

Significant Themes

• Justice and accountability: The Iron Garment Division strives for fairness in investigating and punishing Gu Weizhou.
• Power dynamics: The Directorate of Ceremonial Affairs, represented by Xu Wuji, demonstrates its influence and capabilities.
• Respect and gratitude: He Yang and his disciples express deep respect and gratitude towards Yang Ling for his role in the case.

Character Interactions

• Gu Weizhou vs. Xu Wuji: Gu Weizhou's cowardice is exposed when faced with Xu Wuji's threat, leading to his arrest.
• He Yang vs. Yang Ling: He Yang expresses gratitude towards Yang Ling for his role in the case, earning Yang Ling respect from other sect leaders.
• Lu Yunchen, Zhao Xun, and the Fourth Prince: They observe the proceedings, with the Fourth Prince ultimately ordering Gu Weizhou's arrest.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yang Ling arrives at the Martial Arts Hall to find it crowded with Iron Garment officers from various divisions.
• Lu Yunchen, the Chief of the Public Security Division, announces the rules for the Sixth-Grade Assessment: Yang Ling must endure more than a hundred moves from Lu Yunchen without exhausting his Vital Blood or leaving the field's boundaries.
• Lu Yunchen reveals that witnesses are required for Sixth-Grade Assessments, and the Fourth Prince and Zhao Xun are present to witness Yang Ling's assessment.
• Lu Yunchen demonstrates his full strength, revealing the combined power of his Azure Flood Dragon Art, Iron Garment Divine Armor Scripture, Azure Flood Dragon Movement Technique, and Dragon-Capturing Saber Technique.

Character Developments

• Yang Ling shows curiosity and determination to face Lu Yunchen's full strength.
• Lu Yunchen displays his prowess as a Lower Sixth Grade expert, using multiple martial techniques and internal arts to boost his attributes.
• The Fourth Prince and Zhao Xun show interest in Yang Ling's assessment and offer to officially register and rank him if he passes.

Significant Themes

• The assessment process for Iron Garment officers at the Sixth Grade, highlighting the importance of witnesses and the need to demonstrate strength beyond Upper Seventh Rank.
• The power gap between Sixth and Seventh Grade cultivators, with Lu Yunchen's combined attributes reaching over 240, far surpassing any Upper Seventh Rank expert Yang Ling had encountered.

Character Interactions

• Yang Ling and Lu Yunchen: Yang Ling shows respect but also curiosity towards Lu Yunchen's strength, while Lu Yunchen acknowledges Yang Ling's potential and offers him a chance to prove himself.
• The Fourth Prince and Zhao Xun: They witness Yang Ling's assessment, showing interest in his progress and offering to help him advance his rank if he passes.
• Yang Ling and the other Iron Garment officers: The constables show curiosity and reverence towards Yang Ling, acknowledging his cultivation level even before the assessment begins.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yang Ling boosts his attributes using various techniques and artifacts to challenge Lu Yunchen, a Lower Sixth Grade expert.
• He trades blows with Lu Yunchen head-on for several moves, then focuses on evading Lu Yunchen's powerful saber momentum.
• Yang Ling endures over thirty moves against Lu Yunchen, demonstrating exceptional speed and agility.
• Lu Yunchen expresses frustration at Yang Ling's constant evasion, leading to a change in their sparring rules.

Character Developments

• Yang Ling showcases his impressive strength, agility, and Vital Blood, proving his worth as a formidable opponent.
• Lu Yunchen reveals his powerful Sixth Grade abilities and grows frustrated with Yang Ling's evasive tactics.

Significant Themes

• The vast difference in strength between Sixth and Seventh Grade Martial Artists is highlighted.
• Yang Ling's resourcefulness and adaptability are emphasized as he finds ways to challenge a much stronger opponent.

Character Interactions

• Yang Ling and Lu Yunchen engage in a tense and impressive sparring session, showcasing their skills and testing their resolve.
• The Iron Garment Division members watch in awe and admiration as Yang Ling holds his own against Lu Yunchen.
• Lu Yunchen's frustration with Yang Ling's evasion leads to a shift in their sparring rules, demonstrating his desire for a fair and challenging match.

Chapter Summary: “Newly Advanced Sixth Grade!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• After their initial weapon clash, Lu Yunchen and Yang Ling sheath their sabers. Yang Ling keeps the Hundred-Forged Red Gold Pickaxe in hand because it increases his strength.
• Lu Yunchen continues the assessment using only punches and kicks, but without the Dragon-Capturing Saber Technique, his strength and agility decrease. This greatly reduces the danger he poses to Yang Ling.
• Yang Ling fights back with the Twelve-Route Vajra Leg Technique, the Indestructible Vajra Body, and his abundant Vital Blood. His increased strength allows him to withstand Lu Yunchen’s attacks directly.
• The two exchange more than a hundred moves within the martial arts field. Yang Ling is sometimes knocked back and suffers internal discomfort, but his health remains unharmed because the Indestructible Vajra Body absorbs the damage.
• Yang Ling realizes that he can now survive close combat against Lower Sixth Grade experts and might even escape from a Sky Wolf Guard of that level under different circumstances.
• Lu Yunchen’s Vital Blood is also consumed heavily, though Yang Ling estimates that Lu Yunchen possesses more than 1,500 points due to his longer cultivation, medicinal supplements, and the Iron Garment Divine Armor Scripture.
• The Fourth Prince reminds Lu Yunchen that the assessment has surpassed one hundred moves. Lu Yunchen finally stops and declares that Yang Ling has passed the Sixth-Grade Assessment perfectly.
• Yang Ling is officially recognized as a Newly Advanced Sixth Grade martial artist, making him the first such individual produced by Cloud Pattern Provincial Capital in at least three years.
• Zhao Xun explains that Yang Ling’s advancement is especially valuable because Lu Yunchen personally served as his examiner. Fewer than twenty Lower Sixth Grade martial artists in the Zhao Kingdom could defeat Lu Yunchen, placing Yang Ling’s achievement well above ordinary Sixth-Grade promotions.
• Zhao Xun formally grants Yang Ling two supreme martial arts manuals created by the Iron Garment Division’s chief: the Iron Garment Divine Armor Scripture, a Second-Rate internal skill, and the Dragon-Capturing Saber Technique, a Second-Rate saber technique.

Character Developments

• Yang Ling: Demonstrates that his physical cultivation, Vital Blood reserves, and Indestructible Vajra Body are strong enough to withstand a top-tier Lower Sixth Grade opponent. He gains confidence in his ability to survive and potentially escape from Sixth Grade experts. He also becomes more aware of the importance of internal skills and hopes to combine the Iron Garment Divine Armor Scripture with the Vajra Wisdom King Art.
• Lu Yunchen: Revealed to be one of the strongest Lower Sixth Grade martial artists in the Zhao Kingdom. He possesses two Second-Rate internal skills and enormous combat experience. Although initially focused on testing Yang Ling, he becomes absorbed in the battle and ultimately recognizes Yang Ling’s exceptional performance.
• Yun Ruo: Shows concern that Lu Yunchen may continue fighting beyond the assessment’s requirements. She visibly relaxes and smiles after Yang Ling passes.
• Zhao Xun: Publicly emphasizes the exceptional value of Yang Ling’s promotion and personally presents him with the two powerful martial arts manuals. He also stresses the Iron Garment Division’s strict expectations and discipline.
• The Fourth Prince and other officials: Express approval of Yang Ling’s achievement, with the Fourth Prince discreetly ensuring that the assessment ends at the proper point.

Significant Themes

• The widening gap between martial artists of the same grade: Yang Ling learns that Sixth Grade experts can vary enormously in strength depending on their internal skills, cultivation time, attributes, and resources.
• Foundation and preparation: Lu Yunchen’s superior performance comes from his two Second-Rate internal skills, long cultivation, and accumulated medicinal advantages, showing how deeply a martial artist’s foundation affects combat ability.
• Endurance and defensive power: Yang Ling’s success depends less on overpowering Lu Yunchen than on surviving his attacks through abundant Vital Blood and the Indestructible Vajra Body.
• Recognition and responsibility: Advancement brings not only prestige but also greater obligations. By accepting the manuals, Yang Ling pledges to obey the Iron Garment Division’s laws and serve as an example.
• Growth through challenge: The assessment gives Yang Ling a clearer understanding of his current limits and the path toward becoming stronger.

Character Interactions

• Yang Ling and Lu Yunchen engage in a prolonged, respectful but intense combat assessment, shifting from weapon exchanges to direct hand-to-hand fighting.
• The Fourth Prince intervenes indirectly by reminding Lu Yunchen that the hundred-move requirement has been met.
• Yun Ruo anxiously watches the battle and visibly celebrates Yang Ling’s success.
• Zhao Xun validates Yang Ling’s achievement, explains Lu Yunchen’s exceptional standing, and presents Yang Ling with the Iron Garment Division’s prized martial arts manuals.
• Yang Ling formally accepts both the manuals and the Division Chief’s command to uphold the law and discipline.

Chapter Summary: “That’s Right, I Thought So Too”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Yunchen gives Yun Ruo final instructions before she and Yang Ling return to Long River Prefecture. He stresses that they must cooperate closely, as their ranks—Upper Seventh Rank and Newly Advanced Sixth Grade—make them an unusually powerful leadership pair for the prefecture.
• Yang Ling asks Lu Yunchen about his ability to cultivate two internal skills simultaneously. Lu Yunchen explains that this is possible when a martial artist has sufficient Vital Blood and can harmonize the techniques.
• Lu Yunchen reveals that techniques below First-Rate can generally be combined, provided their attributes and cultivation paths are compatible. However, a First-Rate Internal Skill cannot coexist with a lower-grade technique; it will consume and replace it.
• Yang Ling realizes this explains why the Divine Realm rejected his attempt to cultivate the Iron Garment Divine Armor Scripture alongside his existing First-Rate techniques, the Divine Ape Visualization Diagram and Heavenly Will True Scripture.
• Lu Yunchen warns that incompatible internal skills can cause qi deviation, damage the practitioner’s foundation, and permanently ruin their chances of future breakthroughs.
• Yang Ling asks whether he truly passed the previous assessment. Lu Yunchen confirms that the position had already been reserved for him, though Yang Ling’s performance still aroused Lu Yunchen’s fighting spirit and caused him to increase the assessment’s difficulty.
• Lu Yunchen orders them to return while he remains behind to handle accumulated duties and investigate the Immortal Gods Sect.
• Yang Ling, Yun Ruo, and Qin Mo travel safely toward Long River Prefecture. During the journey, Yang Ling asks whether the Iron Garment Divine Armor Scripture is ever secretly sold.
• Yun Ruo explains that selling or buying it would result in execution for the entire family. Yang Ling concludes that he cannot sell the technique to either natives of the Divine Realm or players without exposing himself to deadly retaliation from the Iron Garment Division.

Character Developments

• Yang Ling: Gains crucial knowledge about dual cultivation, technique compatibility, and the unique status of First-Rate Internal Skills. He becomes more cautious about the Iron Garment Divine Armor Scripture and recognizes that it must remain hidden. His confidence is also reinforced when Lu Yunchen confirms that his promotion was secure and that his combat ability had impressed him.
• Lu Yunchen: Acts as a mentor and authoritative senior. He reveals valuable cultivation secrets, acknowledges Yang Ling’s talent, and admits that Yang Ling’s performance genuinely stimulated his own fighting spirit.
• Yun Ruo: Is entrusted with major responsibility in Long River Prefecture and is expected to work closely with Yang Ling. Her reaction to the danger of selling the Iron Garment Divine Armor Scripture demonstrates her familiarity with the Iron Garment Division’s strict laws.
• Qin Mo: Quietly absorbs the conversation and recognizes the value of staying close to Yang Ling, realizing that accompanying a powerful patron grants him access to important martial knowledge.

Significant Themes

• The importance of compatibility in cultivation: Strength does not come simply from accumulating techniques; internal skills must follow compatible paths or risk causing devastating consequences.
• The superiority and exclusivity of First-Rate techniques: First-Rate Internal Skills are portrayed as exceptionally rare and powerful, capable of absorbing lower-grade techniques while being incompatible with them.
• Knowledge as an advantage: Yang Ling and Qin Mo gain information that could significantly affect their future cultivation and survival.
• Secrecy and danger: The Iron Garment Divine Armor Scripture is both valuable and dangerous to possess. Strict institutional control makes trading it nearly impossible and highlights the oppressive power of the Iron Garment Division.
• Mentorship and political responsibility: Lu Yunchen’s guidance prepares Yang Ling and Yun Ruo for their important roles, while their strong pairing reflects the political and martial expectations placed upon them.

Character Interactions

• Lu Yunchen advises Yun Ruo and Yang Ling about their duties and warns them not to fail under public scrutiny.
• Yang Ling repeatedly questions Lu Yunchen, turning the farewell into an informal lesson about advanced cultivation.
• Qin Mo listens silently but learns from the exchange, especially about running multiple internal skills and the dangers of incompatibility.
• Lu Yunchen reassures Yang Ling about the assessment and acknowledges his hidden strength.
• During the journey, Yang Ling and Yun Ruo discuss the forbidden sale of the Iron Garment Divine Armor Scripture, allowing Yang Ling to confirm that concealing the technique is his only safe option.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Sun Biao and Shi Xin discuss official business while waiting for Yang Ling and Yun to return from Water Qilin Cave.
• Zhang Tie arrives with letters from Cloud Pattern Provincial Capital, revealing promotions for Sun Biao, Shi Xin, and Yang Ling.
• Yang Ling is promoted to concurrently hold the post of Chief of the Long River Prefecture Public Security Division's First Office and Third Office.

Character Developments

• Sun Biao and Shi Xin express surprise and delight at their promotions.
• Yang Ling's rapid martial cultivation progress is acknowledged, and his future potential is recognized.

Significant Themes

• Promotion and career advancement based on merit and potential.
• The importance of martial cultivation in the Iron Garment Division and the empire.

Character Interactions

• Sun Biao and Shi Xin discuss their promotions and Yang Ling's future role.
• Zhang Tie reveals the promotions and Yang Ling's new position to Sun Biao and Shi Xin.
• Sun Biao and Shi Xin express their thoughts on Yang Ling's rapid progress and future potential.

Key Plot Points and Events

• A large gathering of Iron Garment constables from all three divisions in Long River Prefecture.
• Sun Biao, head of the First Office of the Public Security Division, is transferred to Cloud Pattern Provincial Capital.
• Shi Xin, head of the Third Office of the Public Security Division, is transferred to Elephant Peak Prefecture.
• Yang Ling is appointed as the new head of the First Office of the Long River Prefecture Public Security Division, concurrently serving as the head of the Third Office until further notice.

Character Developments

• Yang Ling: Promoted to head of the First Office of the Public Security Division, concurrently serving as the head of the Third Office. His achievements in defeating Rong Tribe spies, including three Copper-rank Sky Wolf Guard agents, are recognized.
• Sun Biao: Transferred to Cloud Pattern Provincial Capital. He shows support for Yang Ling's appointment and helps smooth his path by taking his constable chiefs with him.
• Shi Xin: Transferred to Elephant Peak Prefecture, a promotion to head of a Public Security Division office.

Significant Themes

• Achievement and Recognition: Yang Ling's appointment is a result of his outstanding service in defeating Rong Tribe spies, highlighting the theme of recognition based on merit.
• Change in Power Dynamics: The transfers and appointments lead to a shift in power within the Iron Garment Division, with new leaders taking charge.

Character Interactions

• Sun Biao and Yang Ling: Sun Biao shows support for Yang Ling's appointment, clearing the way for him and taking his constable chiefs with him to Cloud Pattern Provincial Capital.
• Iron Garment Constables and Yang Ling: Initially shocked and resentful, the constables come to respect and awe Yang Ling after learning about his achievements and promotion.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yang Ling's promotion to Sixth Grade Martial Artist shocks the Bandit Suppression Division heads.
• Yang Ling takes over as head of the First and Third Divisions of the Public Security Division.
• Yang Ling reveals the presence of the Immortal Gods Sect cultists in Zhao Kingdom and plans a Special Strike Operation against them.
• Yang Ling asks Zhang Tie for permission to recruit more Iron Garment constables.
• Yang Ling keeps Wen Kongxuan behind to discuss selling the exotic flowers and herbs from Water Qilin Cave to the Medicine Gang.

Character Developments

• Yang Ling: Demonstrates his growth and power by becoming a Sixth Grade Martial Artist and taking charge of two divisions. He shows strategic thinking by planning the Special Strike Operation and understanding the need for secrecy in his actions against the Sky Wolf Guard.
• Wen Kongxuan: Shows loyalty to his late friend Dai by ensuring Yang Ling keeps his promise to sell the exotic flowers and herbs to the Medicine Gang.

Significant Themes

• Power and Promotion: Yang Ling's rapid rise in rank and position highlights the theme of power and its consequences, as well as the envy and respect it garners from those around him.
• Cultivation and Advancement: The difficulty of advancing in martial arts rank is emphasized, with Sixth Grade being likened to a star in the heavens, untouchable for most.
• Secrecy and Strategy: Yang Ling's understanding of the need for secrecy in his actions against the Sky Wolf Guard underscores the importance of strategic thinking and careful planning.

Character Interactions

• Yang Ling and the Bandit Suppression Division Heads: They express shock and awe at Yang Ling's promotion, showing respect and willingness to follow his lead.
• Yang Ling and Zhang Tie: They discuss the recruitment of more Iron Garment constables, with Zhang Tie showing understanding and support for Yang Ling's plans.
• Yang Ling and Wen Kongxuan: They discuss the sale of the exotic flowers and herbs, with Wen Kongxuan demonstrating loyalty to his late friend.