Chapter Summary: "You Don't Look Like You're Acting"

Key Plot Points

1. Cover Maintained: Wang Congyun continues his months-long disguise as a lecherous, wine-soaked Daoist at Flowerplay House brothel in Lone Goose City, spending the night "educating" courtesans while secretly gathering intelligence.
2. Intelligence Exchange: Li Xiaobing returns from the Daoist Sect mountain with critical news:
   • The Daoist Sect is planning restoration of the Horn Sand Forbidden Land, with Dong Daozi and Qing Shuzi personally descending to Lone Goose City within 2–5 years.
   • The sect will disperse over 200 Agricultural Path Field Stewards from New Dajiang County across Jiang Prefecture, compressing the Agricultural Path's expansion and cutting off supply lines.
3. The Opening-Door Ritual Revealed: Wang Congyun discloses two methods for breaking into the Third Realm:
   • Three-Nine Formation: 27 Field Stewards open the door for one person; fewer people needed, but the breakthrough requires half a year to stabilize and participants cannot open doors again for 3 years.
   • Seven-Seven Formation: 49 Field Stewards; no side effects, realm stable immediately, participants can repeat after 10–15 days.
4. Delayed Breakthrough Strategy: Li Xiaobing must wait at least 10 years before breaking through to avoid suspicion—or must wait for someone else to break through first, then stage repeated failed attempts as camouflage before succeeding naturally.
5. Persistent Obstacle: Wang Congyun still cannot awaken Agricultural Path cultivation—Daoist Sect and Agricultural Path cultivation are fundamentally incompatible in one body, despite his successful capture and recognition by multiple Insect Spirits.
6. Jiang Tu's Investigation: At Xiaopei County, Jiang Tu compiles Insect Spirit Intelligence Network reports, noting the Daoist Sect's forbidden land plans, Green Mountain Lake's confirmation of the Opening-Door Ritual, the dispersal policy, and suspects something off about Wang Congyun's behavior.

Character Developments

• Wang Congyun: Revealed as a master strategist—his hedonism is pure performance. He has secretly relocated 800+ people to Green Mountain Lake, prepared the Opening-Door Ritual methods in advance, and maintains multiple layers of secrecy (even his closest allies don't know the exact locations).
• Li Xiaobing: Loyal and reliable ally, returns with intelligence but anxious about her own advancement. She wisely avoids asking questions she shouldn't and trusts Wang Congyun's planning.
• Jiang Tu: Introduced as an intelligence analyst character, connecting scattered information and beginning to notice inconsistencies—hint of future complications.

Significant Themes

• Deception as Survival: Wang Congyun's extreme self-defilement (brothels, concubines) exists purely for disguise—yet the chapter humorously suggests the performance may be too convincing.
• Strategic Patience: Li Xiaobing's breakthrough must be delayed for years purely to maintain cover; long-term planning trumps personal advancement.
• Layers of Secrecy: Even allies don't know full plans; trust is compartmentalized.
• Comic Relief vs. Subtext: Li Xiaobing's genuine envy of Wang Congyun's "lifestyle" blurs the line between performance and reality—the chapter title's irony.

Character Interactions

• Wang Congyun & Brothel Staff: Demonstrates his flawless degenerate facade (lavish tips, lecherous demands), contrasted with his instant sobriety upon leaving.
• Wang Congyun & Li Xiaobing: Candid exchange of intelligence; mutual trust despite hiding some details from each other. Their banter (Li Xiaobing's mock envy) adds levity to a serious conspiracy.
• Jiang Tu (solo): Analytical scene showing the broader intelligence network and foreshadowing that Wang Congyun's true nature may be uncovered.

Plot Points and Events

• The chapter begins with Jiang Tu observing his maids, Xianggua and Xueli, in the Jiang Residence during a heavy snowfall.
• Jiang Tu reflects on the couple's decision not to remarry and their dedication to serving the family.
• He considers the possibility of taking the maids as additional wives but dismisses the idea due to his commitment to his wife and his disinterest in worldly affairs.
• Jiang Tu checks his cultivation progress and realizes he needs to enlighten a new straw figure for his disguise to spread the Agricultural Path.
• He has been attempting to enlighten a straw figure for over two hundred times but has not succeeded yet.
• Meanwhile, the Daoist Sect's division of the Agricultural Path has led to Field Steward Daoist Priests being dispatched to various cities and counties, including Welcoming Wind City, where Rong Yidao is stationed.
• Big Household Zhou receives a letter from Wang Congyun (Dog Egg) warning him about Rong Yidao's temperament and advising caution.

Character Developments

• Jiang Tu: He is dedicated to his cultivation and spreading the Agricultural Path. He remains committed to his wife and has no interest in taking additional wives. He is patient and persistent in his attempts to enlighten a straw figure.
• Zhou Ning'e: She is clever and skilled in needlework, having taught Jiang Tu. She remains devoted to her family and has no desire to remarry.
• Wang Congyun (Dog Egg): He has been enlightened by the Daoist Sect and is now a Field Steward Daoist Priest. He remains concerned about his family and sends a warning letter to Big Household Zhou about Rong Yidao.
• Rong Yidao: He is a Field Steward Daoist Priest with a perverse temperament, unlearned, and incompetent. He relies on his seniority to suppress others.

Significant Themes

• The pursuit of cultivation and enlightenment.
• The importance of family and loyalty, as seen in the maids' dedication to the Jiang family.
• The consequences of the Daoist Sect's division of the Agricultural Path and the changes it brings to the region.
• The theme of disguise and identity, as Jiang Tu considers enlightenment a new straw figure for his disguise.

Character Interactions

• Jiang Tu and Zhou Ning'e: They are a devoted couple who respect and support each other. They have a strong bond and share their thoughts and concerns with one another.
• Jiang Tu and the maids (Xianggua and Xueli): They have a close relationship, with Jiang Tu treating the maids as family. He considers their well-being and is aware of their dedication to the family.
• Wang Congyun (Dog Egg) and Big Household Zhou: Despite not having returned home in decades, Wang Congyun still cares for his family and sends a warning letter to Big Household Zhou. Big Household Zhou values the warning and is determined to discuss it with his son-in-law.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jiang Tu continues working on his Straw Figure, aiming to perfect it with his wife's help.
• Big Household Zhou visits, seeking advice on how to handle the new Field Steward Daoist master, Rong Yidao, in Welcoming Wind City.
• Zhou Ning'e returns from Welcoming Wind City, revealing that Rong Yidao attempted to proposition her, leading to Jiang Tu's rising killing intent.

Character Developments

• Jiang Tu: Struggles to perfect his Straw Figure, decides to involve his wife in the process. Feels growing animosity towards Rong Yidao.
• Zhou Ning'e: Returns from Welcoming Wind City, reveals her encounter with Rong Yidao, decides to stop traveling for business due to the changing political climate.
• Big Household Zhou: Seeks Jiang Tu's advice on handling Rong Yidao, plans to visit Welcoming Wind City personally.

Significant Themes

• Ambition and corruption: Rong Yidao's behavior reflects the growing ambition and corruption within the Daoist Sect.
• Family and loyalty: Jiang Tu and Zhou Ning'e's strong bond and mutual support are highlighted.
• Power dynamics: The shift in power dynamics between the Daoist Sect and the local authorities is explored.

Character Interactions

• Jiang Tu and Zhou Ning'e: Their strong bond and mutual support are evident in their interactions. They discuss business matters and share their concerns about Rong Yidao.
• Jiang Tu and Big Household Zhou: They discuss the situation in Welcoming Wind City and how to handle Rong Yidao. Big Household Zhou seeks Jiang Tu's advice and plans to visit Welcoming Wind City.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jiang Tu's wife, Zhou Ning'e, witnesses Jiang Tu's killing intent towards Rong Yidao, revealing her husband's hidden capabilities and protective nature.
• Jiang Tu asks Zhou Ning'e to help finish sewing a Straw Figure, which she completes with exceptional skill and focus, displaying signs of entering the Dao.
• Jiang Tu successfully animates the Straw Figure, but it disappears immediately, leaving both him and Zhou Ning'e bewildered.

Character Developments

• Zhou Ning'e: Shows her sewing skills, focus, and dedication. She also displays signs of entering the Dao while working on the Straw Figure.
• Jiang Tu: Reveals his protective nature towards Zhou Ning'e and his knowledge of Daoist arts. He successfully animates the Straw Figure but is left confused by its disappearance.

Significant Themes

• The power of focus and dedication, as seen in Zhou Ning'e's sewing and her potential entry into the Dao.
• The mysteries of the Dao and Daoist arts, as demonstrated by Jiang Tu's ability to animate the Straw Figure.
• The unexpected and unpredictable nature of the world, as shown by the Straw Figure's sudden disappearance.

Character Interactions

• Jiang Tu and Zhou Ning'e: The couple shares a close, intimate relationship. They trust and support each other, with Zhou Ning'e showing understanding and acceptance of Jiang Tu's secrets.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin Tuo Yun animates a straw figure resembling her childhood self, which escapes using the Earth Escape Technique.
• Jiang Tu's straw figure, the Myriad-Forms Straw Figure, is stolen by Qin Tuo Yun's straw figure, the Spirit-Wisdom Straw Figure.
• Jiang Tu chases and retrieves his straw figure, discovering that both straw figures have acknowledged him as their master.

Character Developments

• Qin Tuo Yun becomes more determined and resourceful in her pursuit of her escaped straw figure.
• Jiang Tu demonstrates his prowess in the Earth Escape Technique and gains control over both straw figures.

Significant Themes

• The unexpected consequences of one's actions (Qin Tuo Yun's straw figure running away).
• The duality of control and responsibility (Jiang Tu gaining control over both straw figures).

Character Interactions

• Qin Tuo Yun and her family: Qin Tuo Yun's family supports and teases her about her escaped straw figure.
• Jiang Tu and Zhou Ning'e: Zhou Ning'e watches Jiang Tu use his Earth Escape Technique, feeling a sense of pride and longing.
• Jiang Tu and the straw figures: Jiang Tu chases and retrieves his straw figure, discovering that both straw figures have acknowledged him as their master.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jiang Tu examines his new Straw Figures: the Myriad-Forms Straw Figure and the Spirit-Wisdom Straw Figure.
• The Myriad-Forms Straw Figure can transform into various animals, obey commands, and has a long sensory range.
• The Spirit-Wisdom Straw Figure has intelligence, cultivation, and strong defenses but is mischievous and needs regular discipline.
• Jiang Tu sends the Myriad-Forms Straw Figure to gather information about Rong Yidao.
• Back at the Jiang Residence, chaos ensues due to the Spirit-Wisdom Straw Figure's mischief.
• Jiang Tu catches and disciplines the Spirit-Wisdom Straw Figure, then sends it back to Qin Tuo Yun.

Character Developments

• Jiang Tu: He becomes more determined to kill Rong Yidao and uses his Straw Figures to plan his strategy. He also shows frustration with the Spirit-Wisdom Straw Figure's mischief.
• Qin Tuo Yun: She feels listless and distracted after her Straw Figure is taken. She later retrieves it but is embarrassed by its mischief.

Significant Themes

• The potential and limitations of Straw Figures.
• The consequences of Jiang Tu's actions and plans.
• The bond between Qin Tuo Yun and her Straw Figure.

Character Interactions

• Jiang Tu interacts with his Straw Figures, examining their abilities and deciding how to use them.
• Qin Tuo Yun interacts with her family, showing her distress over her Straw Figure's disappearance and later her embarrassment at its mischief.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Rong Yidao, a Daoist master, takes over an old residence in Welcoming Wind City, using it as a base for his debauchery and abuse of local women.
• The city lord and other Daoist Sect members try to reason with him but are rebuked.
• Big Household Zhou, owner of Old Zhou House, visits Rong Yidao to pay respects but is humiliated and forced to consider sending his daughter, Ning E, to Rong Yidao.
• A Daoist Sect messenger arrives with a warning message, ordering Rong Yidao to restrain himself.

Character Developments

• Rong Yidao: Revealed as an arrogant, lustful, and cruel Daoist master who abuses his power and disregards the suffering of others.
• Big Household Zhou: Initially tries to maintain his business in Welcoming Wind City but is humiliated by Rong Yidao and considers sending his daughter to avoid further trouble.

Significant Themes

• Corruption and abuse of power: Rong Yidao's actions highlight the corruption within the Daoist Sect and the abuse of power by those in positions of authority.
• The struggle of the common people: The residents of Welcoming Wind City suffer due to Rong Yidao's actions, with many women being taken against their will and families torn apart.

Character Interactions

• Rong Yidao interacts with the local women he abuses, as well as the city lord and other Daoist Sect members who try to reason with him.
• Big Household Zhou interacts with Rong Yidao, suffering humiliation and considering sending his daughter to appease the Daoist master.
• The Daoist Sect messenger interacts with Rong Yidao, delivering a warning message that temporarily restrains the Daoist master's actions.

Chapter Summary: "If You're Rong Yidao, Then Who Am I?"

1. Key Plot Points & Events

• Jiang Tu wakes his wife Zhou Ning'e late at night and asks to borrow their son, Little Jiang Liu—a shapeshifting Straw Figure—for a secret mission.
• Zhou Ning'e immediately deduces he plans to get revenge on Rong Yidao, who once harassed her and humiliated her father; she agrees to cover by claiming their son is ill.
• Jiang Tu reshapes Little Jiang Liu into Rong Yidao's exact likeness, then recruits the troublesome Spirit-Wisdom Straw Figure (recently bound for misbehavior), which turns cooperative once told this is serious business.
• The two Straw Figures travel to Welcoming Wind City via Great Earth Escape; Jiang Tu remotely pilots the Myriad-Forms figure from home.
• He scouts the city from above—noting ~30 Daoist messengers and 15 disciples scattered as spies—then infiltrates Rong Residence, drugging all guards and servants with a harmless sleeping powder.
• Entering Rong Yidao's bedchamber, he watches the target wake, sense danger, and try to escape. The impostor reveals his face and shocks Rong Yidao.
• The impostor botches his lines, saying "I am... Jiang Liu" before correcting to "Rong Yidao," confusing and enraging the real one.
• Rong Yidao challenges the impostor, declaring he must bare his neck and await execution. The chapter ends at this confrontation.

2. Character Developments

• Jiang Tu: Reveals a patient, methodical, vengeful streak beneath his composed exterior; also playful at home (flicks his wife's forehead when she teases him). His plan shows careful preparation, resourcefulness, and a desire to protect his family's honor.
• Zhou Ning'e: Perceptive, supportive, and pragmatic; half-worried, half-moved by her husband's willingness to kill for her and her father. She humorously reveals she learned makeup techniques with plans to someday have Jiang Tu impersonate their grown son.
• Rong Yidao: Sharp survival instincts, arrogant and quick-tempered; utterly thrown off by the absurdity of meeting his exact double.
• Spirit-Wisdom Straw Figure: Shows a serious, disciplined side despite its mischievous nature—obeys orders when told this is "serious business."

3. Significant Themes

• Revenge and retribution: Settling old scores (insults to wife and father-in-law) through deception and violence.
• Identity and impersonation: The comic, destabilizing effect of meeting one's own doppelgänger; the question of who truly holds an identity.
• Marital partnership and trust: Jiang Tu and Zhou Ning'e operate as equal conspirators, with mutual affection and shared secrets.
• Deception and stealth: Shapeshifting, remote control, drugging, disguise, and infiltration as tools of justice.

4. Character Interactions

• Jiang Tu & Zhou Ning'e: Intimate and cooperative; tender yet mischievous banter over their evolving scheme.
• Jiang Tu & Straw Figures: Master-and-servant dynamic; stern handling of Spirit-Wisdom, careful planning with Little Jiang Liu's blank obedience.
• The two Rong Yidaos: Darkly comedic clash—real Rong furious and incredulous, impostor wooden and slow-witted, creating a bizarre stalemate before violence.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Rong Yidao, the Agricultural Path Field Steward of the Rong Residence, encounters a doppelganger of himself who appears at night.
• The doppelganger uses a more powerful version of the Earth-Moving Technique, crushing Rong Yidao and causing him to flee into the earth.
• Rong Yidao is then kicked out of the earth, severely injured, and begs for mercy.
• The doppelganger reveals that Rong Yidao's crimes have been witnessed by the people he wronged, and he deserves to die.
• Rong Yidao tries to use his final trump card but finds it missing. He is then killed by the doppelganger and his body dissolved using Corpse-Melting Powder.
• After Rong Yidao's death, Jiang Tu, a hundred li away, receives a massive cultivation feedback, indicating that Rong Yidao's cultivation did not disperse but was intercepted by Jiang Tu due to Cultivation Persistence.

Character Developments

• Rong Yidao's true nature is revealed as cruel and selfish, preying on the common people and acting without mercy.
• Jiang Tu's cultivation increases significantly due to the cultivation feedback from Rong Yidao's death.

Significant Themes

• Cultivation Persistence: Rong Yidao's cultivation did not disperse after his death but was intercepted by Jiang Tu.
• Karma: The people Rong Yidao wronged come to take his life, suggesting that his actions have consequences.
• Good vs. Evil: The doppelganger represents the good Agricultural Path Cultivator that Rong Yidao should have been, while Rong Yidao himself embodies the evil he has become.

Character Interactions

• The doppelganger and Rong Yidao interact, with the doppelganger passing judgment on Rong Yidao's actions.
• Jiang Tu and the three Straw Figures receive cultivation feedback due to Rong Yidao's death, indicating a connection between them.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jiang Tu successfully kills Rong Yidao and substitutes him with a straw figure, becoming the true Agricultural Path steward of Welcoming Wind City.
• Jiang Tu discovers the "Cultivation Persistence" law, where cultivators of the same sequence gain feedback upon each other's deaths.
• Jiang Tu ponders the implications of Daoist Sect cultivators killing Agricultural Path cultivators and obtaining unknown benefits.
• In Welcoming Wind City, Rong Yidao (Jiang Tu's straw figure) begins to act as a proper Field Steward Dao master, improving the city's agricultural yield and establishing an agricultural academy.

Character Developments

• Jiang Tu: Becomes more confident and strategic, considering the long-term implications of his actions and the potential threats posed by the Daoist Sect.
• Zhou Ning'e: Grows more admiring and supportive of her husband, understanding his plans and ambitions better.
• Rong Yidao (Jiang Tu's straw figure): Begins to exhibit the qualities of a true Field Steward Dao master, improving Welcoming Wind City's agricultural production and establishing an academy for enlightenment.

Significant Themes

• The consequences of cultivators killing each other for advancement and the potential corruption of the Agricultural Path sequence.
• The role of a Field Steward Dao master in guiding and improving agricultural production and enlightenment.
• The long-term plans and strategies of Jiang Tu, considering the future of his family and the potential threats posed by the Daoist Sect.

Character Interactions

• Jiang Tu and Zhou Ning'e: The couple grows closer as they discuss Jiang Tu's plans and ambitions, with Zhou Ning'e becoming more supportive and admiring of her husband.
• Jiang Tu and Rong Yidao (straw figure): Jiang Tu remotely controls and guides Rong Yidao, who begins to act more like a true Field Steward Dao master.
• Rong Yidao (straw figure) and the people of Welcoming Wind City: Rong Yidao's actions improve the city's agricultural yield and establish an academy for enlightenment, gradually earning the respect and trust of the city's inhabitants.

Summary

Plot Points and Events

• The Agricultural Academy in Welcoming Wind City has flourished, with over 200 Agricultural Path Cultivators and thousands of students.
• Dong Daozi and Qing Shuzi, True Persons of the Daoist Sect, secretly observe the academy and Welcoming Wind City.
• They notice an unusual Agricultural Path aura in Xiaopei County, near Locust Tree Village, and decide to investigate.

Character Developments

• Jiang Tu (Rong Yidao): His cultivation has surged to the middle stage of Seventh Grade due to spreading agricultural instruction. He plans to begin his fourth evolution.
• Dong Daozi and Qing Shuzi: They remain indifferent to the suffering of mundane mortals and view them as tools for the Daoist Sect's grandeur. They use Rong Yidao's wickedness to highlight the Sect's benevolence.

Significant Themes

• The division strategy of the Agricultural Path to slow its development.
• The Daoist Sect's indifference to mundane mortal suffering.
• The proper path of Agricultural Path cultivation: spreading instruction.

Character Interactions

• Dong Daozi and Qing Shuzi: They coordinate the Daoist Sect's monitoring of the Agricultural Path, discuss Welcoming Wind City's development, and decide to investigate Xiaopei County.
• Jiang Tu (Rong Yidao) and the Daoist Sect: Jiang Tu senses the True Persons' auras and remains vigilant, while the Daoist Sect remains unaware of his presence.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Two powerful Daoist Sect experts, Dong Daozi and Qing Shuzi, arrive at Jiang Tu's residence, sensing an Agricultural Path aura nearby.
• Jiang Tu, concealed by the Golden Tome, greets them, trying to appear ordinary.
• An Insect Spirit message passes through the residence, but Jiang Tu's concealment prevents it from reacting to him.
• Dong Daozi asks to see Jiang Tu's wife, Zhou Ning'e.

Character Developments

• Jiang Tu remains calm under pressure, using the Golden Tome to conceal his identity and aura.
• Zhou Ning'e maintains her composure when meeting the Daoist masters, giving no indication of her connection to the Agricultural Path.

Significant Themes

• The power and limitations of the Golden Tome's concealment.
• The fear and suspicion that come with hiding one's true identity and actions.
• The potential danger of the Agricultural Path practitioners being discovered by the Daoist Sect.

Character Interactions

• Jiang Tu and Zhou Ning'e interact with the Daoist masters, trying to appear ordinary and uninvolved with the Agricultural Path.
• Dong Daozi and Qing Shuzi interact with Jiang Tu, trying to discern any hidden secrets or connections to the Agricultural Path.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Two Daoist Sect cultivators, Qing Shuzi and Dong Daozi, arrive at Jiang Tu's home, drawn by Zhou Ning'e's hidden Agricultural Path spiritual potential.
• They attempt to recruit her for cultivation, but decide against it due to her age and the potential threat of her Agricultural Path opportunity.
• They leave, giving Jiang Tu a whistle to summon help if Zhou Ning'e shows signs of awakening Awakened Wisdom, and a bundle of Premium Quality medicinal herb seeds as a parting gift.

Character Developments

• Zhou Ning'e realizes that her husband, Jiang Tu, is not from the Daoist Sect and has been teaching her agricultural learning in secret.
• Jiang Tu feels relieved that the immediate threat has passed but remains vigilant against the Daoist Sect's true intentions.

Significant Themes

• The Daoist Sect's fear and suppression of the Agricultural Path.
• The power dynamics between cultivators and mortals.
• The importance of deception and acting in navigating dangerous situations.

Character Interactions

• Jiang Tu and Zhou Ning'e work together to deceive the Daoist Sect cultivators, maintaining their act as ordinary farmers.
• Qing Shuzi and Dong Daozi communicate silently through transmitted voices, revealing their true thoughts and intentions.
• Jiang Tu and Zhou Ning'e silently understand each other's thoughts and plans after the Daoist Sect cultivators leave.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Two Daoist Sect True Persons, Qing Shuzi and Dong Daozi, secretly surveil the Jiang Residence due to suspicions about Jiang Tu and his wife.
• Qing Shuzi remains hidden outside the residence for three months, while Dong Daozi leaves for the Horn-Sand Ancient Forbidden Land.
• Jiang Tu, unaware of the surveillance, lives his life normally, tending to his fields and underground herb garden.
• After three months, Qing Shuzi leaves, and Jiang Tu finally feels safe. He checks his Sequence Panel and decides to harvest Causality Value.

Character Developments

• Jiang Tu: Becomes more cautious and patient, hiding his true nature from the Daoist Sect True Persons. He evolves his profession to level 4, gaining the Incense-Fire Divine Dao trait.
• Qing Shuzi: Remains patient and vigilant, but ultimately leaves after three months without finding any evidence of wrongdoing.
• Dong Daozi: Leaves for the Horn-Sand Ancient Forbidden Land, trusting Qing Shuzi's judgment.

Significant Themes

• Patience and vigilance versus impulsiveness.
• The power of observation and deduction in uncovering truth.
• The slow but steady growth of the Agricultural Path, despite obstacles.

Character Interactions

• Jiang Tu and Qing Shuzi: Unaware of each other's presence, they engage in a silent game of cat and mouse.
• Qing Shuzi and Dong Daozi: They work together to investigate the Jiang Residence, with Qing Shuzi taking a more cautious approach.
• Jiang Tu and Zhou Ning'e: They live their lives normally, supporting each other without revealing their true nature.

Chapter Summary: “Fourth Evolution Begins, Sequence Synchronization and Two-Way Sharing”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jiang Tu studies the upgraded Incense-Fire Divine Dao traits and realizes the Agricultural Dao may be only one branch of a larger Incense-Fire Divine Dao Sequence. He wonders what other Professional Sequences exist and how they can be unlocked.
• He considers whether he must personally pursue different occupations to trigger new professions. Although he has experience as a merchant, medicinal farmer, craftsman, builder, and assassin, no second profession has appeared yet. He plans to experiment more freely under Little Jiang Liu’s identity, but prioritizes caution and survival.
• Jiang Tu spends 2,000 Causality Value to obtain a third blessing: Population Prosperity, an Excellent-quality blessing that increases reproduction in Agricultural Dao settlements and greatly improves the chance that newborns inherit Sequence traits and become cultivators.
• He decides not to spend his remaining Causality Value on another grace. The Agricultural Path is developing steadily, and excessive growth could attract greater hostility from the Daoist Sect or provoke another Strange Calamity.
• He begins the fourth evolution with nearly thirty years of available evolution time, hoping to build upon Luo Jin’s recent breakthrough, the Serf Rebellion, Shennong Valley’s retreat, and the creation of the Straw Figure.
• A new function appears: Sequence Synchronization. Jiang Tu can now transfer major advancements from reality into the evolution, demonstrating that reality and the simulated evolution can mutually influence and strengthen one another.
• He spends 600 Causality Value to synchronize several developments, including:
  • The Seventh Grade Ancestor-Guiding Opening-Door Ritual
  • The Multi-Field Steward formation
  • Seventh Grade cultivation experience
  • Straw Figure Technique insights
  • Additional Land Spirit varieties
• The system warns that important items previously settled into reality must be returned to the evolution. Jiang Tu identifies the item as Luo Jin’s Earthwalking Straw Figure and returns it, ensuring that the evolving Luo Jin retains the technique and its associated potential.
• The fourth evolution begins with the newly selected blessings: Favorable Weather, Auspicious Snow, and Population Prosperity.
• In Year 42, an unusual spring snowfall covers Shennong Valley. The snow is warm rather than cold and accelerates the growth of crops, medicinal herbs, and premium seeds. After three days and nights, the valley achieves an enormous harvest, increasing its stock of valuable seeds more than fivefold.
• However, the auspicious snow also renews the valley’s poisonous plants and insects, removing their toxins and weakening the surrounding miasma. Shennong Valley’s natural concealment and defenses begin to disappear, making discovery by the Buddhist-Taoist forces increasingly likely.

Character Developments

• Jiang Tu becomes more analytical and strategic. He investigates the deeper structure of the Incense-Fire Divine Dao, considers how new professions might arise, and carefully balances growth against the danger of exposing the Agricultural Path.
• His understanding of the Sequence Golden Codex expands as he discovers that evolution and reality can exchange knowledge and resources through synchronization.
• Jiang Tu also shows increasing confidence in managing large-scale developments, weighing population growth, blessings, enemy surveillance, and the long-term survival of the Agricultural Dao.
• Luo Jin’s importance grows indirectly. His Seventh Grade advancement, Straw Figure Technique, and Earthwalking Straw Figure become central assets to the evolution. His progress represents the Agricultural Path’s highest potential, even as his inner demon remains an unresolved threat from the previous evolution.

Significant Themes

• Mutual influence between reality and evolution: The evolution is no longer a one-way force shaping reality; real-world breakthroughs can now improve the simulated world.
• Growth versus concealment: Jiang Tu recognizes that rapid expansion may make the Agricultural Path stronger but could also alert the Daoist Sect and invite destruction.
• Inheritance and continuity: Population Prosperity emphasizes the survival of the Sequence through reproduction and the transmission of traits to future generations.
• Opportunity and danger: The auspicious snow brings unprecedented abundance while simultaneously dismantling Shennong Valley’s defenses.
• Knowledge of a larger system: Jiang Tu begins to suspect that the Agricultural Dao is part of a broader network of Incense-Fire Divine Dao professions and Sequences.
• The cost of progress: Even beneficial developments—such as the removal of miasma and renewal of life—can create new vulnerabilities.

Character Interactions

• Jiang Tu interacts primarily with the Sequence Golden Codex, using it to obtain blessings, synchronize progress, begin the evolution, and return the Earthwalking Straw Figure.
• He mentally considers the potential roles of future professions and the circumstances surrounding his original Farmer profession.
• Within the evolution, Luo Jin presides over the auspicious snowfall and coordinates spiritually with the fields, while the Farmers of Shennong Valley work collectively to harvest and replant the newly multiplied crops.
• The Agricultural Dao cultivators act as a unified community, transforming the miraculous snowfall into a massive harvest while confronting the strategic consequences of their weakened defenses.
• The chapter also establishes an indirect conflict with the Daoist Sect and the wider Buddhist-Taoist Path, whose discovery of Shennong Valley now appears increasingly imminent.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The miasma around Shennong Valley begins to disperse, signaling the end of their seclusion.
• Luo Jin's Earthwalking Straw Figure starts to speak and evolve, and old items return to Luo Jin.
• Xu Lin and Luo Jin break through to Seventh Grade, and many new Seventh Grade cultivators emerge.
• Shennong Valley begins to relocate, preparing to leave the valley.
• Luo Jin falls ill due to inner demons, but recovers after talking to Luo Dazhuang.
• Luo Jin renames Old Farmer Hall to Snow Auspice Hall and leads the agricultural cultivators out of the valley.
• Luo Jin learns the third technique of the Herbal Scholar, Scatter Beans, Raise Soldiers.

Character Developments

• Luo Jin's inner demons cause him to hesitate about leaving the valley, but he eventually overcomes them and gains a new technique.
• Luo Dazhuang remains behind to guard the valley and pave a path of retreat, showing his dedication to the Agricultural Path.
• Xu Lin stabilizes her Seventh Grade realm and helps others advance.
• The Earthwalking Straw Figure evolves and gains the ability to speak.

Significant Themes

• The Agricultural Path's struggle for survival and growth.
• The power of unity and perseverance among the agricultural cultivators.
• The importance of facing and overcoming one's inner demons.

Character Interactions

• Luo Jin and Luo Dazhuang support each other and share their burdens, helping them both overcome their inner demons.
• Xu Lin and Luo Jin work together to help others advance and prepare for leaving the valley.
• The agricultural cultivators unite and support each other as they leave the valley together.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Luo Jin observes the inner demons plaguing Luo Dazhuang and Luo Jin, realizing the importance of stabilizing one's Dao Heart for cultivation advancement.
• Luo Jin comprehends the third technique of Seventh Grade, improving his cultivation state.
• Snow Auspice Hall expands rapidly, surrounding New Apple City and other cities without entering them.
• Luo Jin discovers hidden Farmers in New Apple City who have awakened Awakened Wisdom.
• Snow Auspice Hall's influence grows to five cities, with over eighty thousand members, including thousands of cultivators and hundreds of Field Stewards and Herbal Scholars.
• Luo Jin faces internal pressure to enter the cities due to the restlessness of Snow Auspice Hall's people.
• Luo Jin decides to enter the cities secretly, avoiding direct confrontation with Buddhism and Taoism.

Character Developments

• Luo Jin: Realizes the importance of stabilizing one's Dao Heart, comprehends a new technique, and decides to enter the cities secretly.
• Luo Dazhuang: Struggles with inner demons and cannot advance due to his crippled body.
• Xu Lin: Advocates for entering the cities and offers to personally oversee the situation in New Apple City.

Significant Themes

• The importance of stabilizing one's Dao Heart for cultivation advancement.
• The struggle between Buddhism, Taoism, and the Agricultural Path.
• The growth and expansion of Snow Auspice Hall and the Agricultural Path.
• The internal pressure and restlessness of Snow Auspice Hall's people.

Character Interactions

• Luo Jin observes Luo Dazhuang and Luo Jin's inner demons, leading to his realization about the Dao Heart.
• Luo Jin and Xu Lin discuss the possibility of entering the cities, with Xu Lin advocating for it.
• Luo Jin decides to enter the cities secretly, with Xu Lin offering to oversee the situation in New Apple City.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Snow Auspice Hall, led by Xu Lin, enters New Apple City and establishes roots among the slaves, gradually expanding its influence.
• Luo Jin, after years of hesitation, enters New Apple City and breaks through his inner demons, reaching Seventh Grade Perfection and learning the Coiled Dragon Root technique.
• Luo Jin suppresses internal unrest within Snow Auspice Hall, killing a Seventh Grade Herbal Scholar who advocated for immediate action against the Buddhist and Taoist sects.

Character Developments

• Xu Lin remains steadfast in her loyalty to Luo Jin and the Agricultural Path, suppressing internal unrest and urging Luo Jin to return to the city.
• Luo Jin overcomes his inner demons and gains a new technique, Coiled Dragon Root, which allows him to control vegetation and has an ultimate form that can contend with powerful enemies.
• Luo Jin demonstrates his ruthless side, killing a fellow cultivator to maintain order and deter others from acting rashly.

Significant Themes

• Patience vs. Impulsiveness: Some members of Snow Auspice Hall grow impatient and advocate for immediate action against the Buddhist and Taoist sects, while Luo Jin and Xu Lin emphasize the importance of patience and careful planning.
• The Price of Progress: Snow Auspice Hall's growth and expansion come at the cost of internal unrest and the risk of exposure, highlighting the challenges of maintaining a secretive organization.
• The Legacy of the Past: The Serf Rebellion serves as a reminder of the Buddhist and Taoist sects' power and the consequences of underestimating them, influencing Luo Jin's decision to suppress internal unrest.

Character Interactions

• Luo Jin and Xu Lin maintain a strong master-disciple bond, with Xu Lin consistently supporting Luo Jin's decisions and Luo Jin trusting Xu Lin to handle the day-to-day operations of Snow Auspice Hall.
• Luo Jin's return to New Apple City is met with reverence and joy by the members of Snow Auspice Hall, who see him as a symbol of hope and unity.
• Luo Jin's ruthless suppression of internal unrest serves as a warning to other members of Snow Auspice Hall, demonstrating his commitment to maintaining the Agricultural Path's secrecy and long-term goals.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Luo Jin reflects on his journey from a slave boy to the leader of Snow Auspice Hall, acknowledging that chaotic times forge people but also lead them down a path of no return.
• Jiang Tu, the founder of Snow Auspice Hall, reveals that the Agricultural Path now has battle capabilities with the Coiled Dragon Root technique, making it a force to be reckoned with.
• Luo Jin learns about the Immortal Path, an ancient inheritance that requires reincarnation through mortal tribulations, and decides not to pursue it but to sabotage the two Buddhist-Taoist factions' efforts to obtain it.
• Snow Auspice Hall grows significantly as it relocates and develops in secret, avoiding the Buddhist-Taoist conflict, and establishes Peace City in the wilderness.
• A mysterious white deer, the Auspicious Deer Spirit, appears in Peace City, commanding all Land Spirits and being worshiped by the people.
• The two Buddhist-Taoist factions accidentally discover one of Snow Auspice Hall's underground strongholds, putting it at risk of total destruction.

Character Developments

• Luo Jin grows from an ordinary slave boy to a mighty lord, adapting to chaotic times and becoming a strategic leader.
• Jiang Tu remains a wise and far-sighted figure, guiding Snow Auspice Hall's growth and development.
• Luo Dazhuang proves himself a capable leader, managing Peace City's establishment and growth.
• Xu Lin demonstrates her loyalty and concern for Snow Auspice Hall's safety, urging Luo Jin to leave the city to avoid disaster.

Significant Themes

• The forging of people by chaotic times and the consequences of that forging.
• The Agricultural Path's growth and potential as a force in the world.
• The pursuit of immortality and the cost of that pursuit, as seen in the Immortal Path.
• The tension between growth and safety, as Snow Auspice Hall expands but faces increasing risks.

Character Interactions

• Luo Jin and Jiang Tu share a mentor-mentee relationship, with Jiang Tu guiding Luo Jin's growth and Luo Jin seeking Jiang Tu's advice.
• Luo Jin and Xu Lin have a master-disciple relationship, with Xu Lin loyally serving Luo Jin and advising him on Snow Auspice Hall's safety.
• Luo Dazhuang and Luo Jin have a familial relationship, with Luo Dazhuang managing Peace City and reporting to Luo Jin about its growth and the mysterious deer spirit.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Snow Auspice Hall decides to withdraw from the five cities due to the conflict between the Buddhist and Daoist Sects.
• Luo Jin, the hall master, stays behind to stabilize the situation while Xu Lin oversees the withdrawal.
• Xu Lin discovers a secret about the current inheritor of the Immortal Path, which is the cause of the escalating conflict between the Buddhist and Daoist Sects.
• Xu Lin is killed while trying to reveal this secret, hinting at a powerful and ancient secret art.
• The Buddhist and Daoist Sects engage in a final, devastating battle in New Apple City, reducing it to ruins.

Character Developments

• Luo Jin: Shows responsibility and concern for his disciples and the people under his care by staying behind to stabilize the situation during the withdrawal.
• Xu Lin: Demonstrates loyalty and dedication to her master and the cause, even at the cost of her own life.

Significant Themes

• The consequences of secrets and hidden knowledge.
• The power dynamics between different factions and the destruction caused by their conflicts.
• The responsibility of leaders and their decisions in times of crisis.

Character Interactions

• Luo Jin and Xu Lin: Master and disciple, with a strong bond and mutual respect. Xu Lin's death deeply affects Luo Jin.
• The Buddhist and Daoist Sects: Their conflict escalates to a catastrophic level, affecting the lives of countless innocent people.