Chapter Summaries

Chapter Summary: “Mutual Consent”

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Daoist masters of Six-Platform Mountain debate whether to accept Xie Chen’s challenge to fight the academy’s teachers one by one. Though they boast about defending the academy’s honor, they are secretly uneasy because Xie Chen has already demonstrated unusual strength.
• The dean advises avoiding the confrontation and reminds the discipline teacher of the vice dean’s mysterious illness, implying that Xie Chen may be connected to dangerous or supernatural events. The discipline teacher refuses to back down and decides to handle the challenge himself.
• The next morning, the discipline teacher publicly announces that Xie Chen may challenge the teachers in a sequential gauntlet. Xie Chen calmly admits that he is the challenger and accepts the rules: he must defeat each opponent to continue, and one loss ends the contest.
• Xie Chen’s true purpose is not simply to defeat the teachers. He suspects that the person who used Curse Art on Huo Wenye is among the academy members. By forcing them to display their individual abilities, he hopes to identify or eliminate suspects. Those who refuse to participate may become more suspicious.
• The discipline teacher leaves to prepare the teachers and determine how to counter Xie Chen, hoping to defeat him early.
• The academy’s disciples become excited by the challenge and begin discussing who will win. Many support the teachers, while others defend Xie Chen’s right to question traditional Daoist culture.
• Xie Chen approaches a group of students and persuades them to make a wager on the upcoming contest. Instead of money, the loser must fulfill one request from the winner, provided it is not illegal. The students agree, unaware that Xie Chen has skillfully drawn them into the bet.
• Huo Wenye waits outside and teasingly observes that Xie Chen has once again managed to persuade people into doing what he wants. Xie Chen rejects the accusation, insisting that the wager was made with mutual consent.

Character Developments

• Xie Chen remains calm, confident, and strategically minded. His apparent arrogance masks a larger investigation into Huo Wenye’s curse. He also demonstrates his talent for manipulating situations and persuading others without directly coercing them.
• The discipline teacher becomes increasingly defensive and angry. His wounded pride drives him to accept the challenge despite the dean’s warning, and he begins preparing the teachers to defeat Xie Chen.
• The dean appears cautious and perceptive. His concern about provoking Xie Chen and his reference to the vice dean’s illness suggest that he understands the danger surrounding the situation better than the others.
• Huo Wenye continues to act as Xie Chen’s amused observer and companion, teasing him while remaining close to him.
• Luo Mingyu provides comic relief through his flirtatious and inappropriate remarks. His teasing also provokes a possessive reaction from Li Sifan.
• Li Sifan displays jealousy or protectiveness toward Luo Mingyu, though Luo misunderstands the implication.
• The Daoist disciples shift from aloofness to excitement, revealing their curiosity and competitive spirit beneath their disciplined exterior.

Significant Themes

• Pride versus caution: The teachers’ desire to defend their honor conflicts with the dean’s warning and their fear of Xie Chen’s abilities.
• Questioning tradition: The livestream debate raises the issue of whether traditional culture should be protected from criticism or tested through open challenge.
• Strategy beneath spectacle: What looks like a public contest is actually part of Xie Chen’s investigation into the curse-user.
• Consent and manipulation: Xie Chen repeatedly influences others while insisting that they agree voluntarily, creating a humorous tension between persuasion and manipulation.
• Public image and performance: The livestream turns the confrontation into entertainment, while both sides worry about humiliation, reputation, and how their actions will be judged.

Character Interactions

• The discipline teacher confronts Xie Chen publicly, while Xie Chen answers with measured confidence and refuses to be intimidated.
• Feng Qing and Chenyue silently worry that Xie Chen is pushing himself too far, but he shows no intention of retreating.
• Luo Mingyu jokes with Xie Chen and then teases him about Huo Wenye’s possessiveness. Li Sifan reacts defensively, though Luo fails to understand why.
• Xie Chen tricks a group of students into accepting a wager, then later discusses the success with Huo Wenye, who playfully accuses him of manipulating them.

Chapter Summary: “Then I’ll Show My Humble Skills”

Key Plot Points and Events

• After Xie Chen leaves, the Six-Platform Mountain Dao Academy disciples begin to worry that they may have been tricked into making a dangerous bet. Although Feng Qing is uneasy, he insists they must honor their oath and accept the consequences.
• News of Xie Chen’s challenge against the entire academy spreads online, causing the livestream to explode in popularity. The program’s directors are delighted, expecting the broadcast to break viewing records.
• At the ritual grounds, Xie Chen is presented as the challenger while the Villain Group, guest stars, staff, and numerous Daoists watch from the sidelines.
• The disciplinary teacher questions Xie Chen about his identity and Daoist title. Xie Chen claims he once had a Daoist title but has forgotten it, implying a mysterious and possibly significant past.
• Xie Chen notices that the academy head and deputy head are absent, suggesting that he expects stronger opponents to appear later.
• The academy sends several purple-robed weather-specialist Daoists to challenge him first. They use talismans to summon dark clouds, violent winds, heavy rain, and lightning, impressing both the spectators and online viewers.
• When it is Xie Chen’s turn, he begins drawing a talisman while reciting a powerful weather-related invocation. The Daoists recognize it as an extremely advanced thunder technique, the “Heavenly Worthy of Universal Transformation, Responder of the Nine Heavens, Lord of Thunder.”
• Xie Chen’s spell causes the sky to darken dramatically, creating an apocalyptic atmosphere. The chapter ends as someone realizes the lightning may be lethal and shouts for everyone to flee.

Character Developments

• Xie Chen remains calm, confident, and deliberately enigmatic. His forgotten Daoist title and knowledge of an elite spell suggest that his abilities and background are far beyond what others assume.
• Feng Qing reveals anxiety beneath his confidence. He doubts the academy’s chances but feels bound by promises, karma, and Daoist principles to honor the bet.
• The academy’s Daoists shift from dismissive confidence to shock and fear once they recognize Xie Chen’s technique. Their initial belief that he is an insignificant challenger begins to collapse.
• Wei Mingqi displays his sharp hearing and aggressive sense of humor by firing back at Xie Ran’s insult. His exchange with Xie Ran adds comic hostility to the tense event.
• Xie Ran becomes humiliated after Wei Mingqi mocks him, but he suppresses his anger and privately vows revenge.
• Huo Wenye acts as a stern mediator, silencing Xie Ran and threatening to remove him from the production.
• Director Li and the production planner view the confrontation primarily as a spectacular success for the show, emphasizing the tension between entertainment and the potentially dangerous supernatural events taking place.

Significant Themes

• Hidden power and underestimated ability: Xie Chen’s modest attitude contrasts sharply with his extraordinary mastery, reinforcing the theme that appearances can be deceptive.
• Confidence versus anxiety: The academy publicly acts superior while privately fearing the consequences of its bet and Xie Chen’s challenge.
• Oaths, karma, and responsibility: Feng Qing’s insistence on honoring the wager reflects the Daoist belief that words and promises carry spiritual consequences.
• Entertainment versus reality: The production crew celebrates the record-breaking livestream even as the ritual appears to become genuinely dangerous, blurring the line between staged television and real supernatural conflict.
• Rivalry and humiliation: The insults between Wei Mingqi and Xie Ran reveal the group’s ongoing interpersonal tensions and Xie Ran’s growing resentment.
• Escalation: What begins as a challenge for publicity rapidly develops into a potentially life-threatening battle.

Important Character Interactions

• Feng Qing reassures the worried disciples that they must honor their wager, despite sharing their fears.
• The disciplinary teacher treats Xie Chen dismissively, while Xie Chen calmly questions the absence of the academy’s top leaders.
• Luo Mingyu misunderstands “weather-type Daoists,” prompting Li Sifan and Li Jingfei to explain the term.
• Xie Ran insults Wei Mingqi, who responds with a much harsher attack on Xie Ran’s appearance and behavior. Huo Wenye ends the quarrel.
• The purple-robed Daoists collectively demonstrate their weather techniques against Xie Chen, only to be overshadowed when he invokes a superior thunder spell.
• The chapter closes with the spectators reacting in panic as Xie Chen’s technique appears powerful enough to kill someone.

Chapter Summary: “Don’t Let Anyone Die!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xie Chen uses an extraordinarily powerful lightning talisman during the Dao Academy competition. The terrifying storm-like display frightens the students, who flee in panic, while the teachers remain behind in shock.
• The lightning technique appears to be a legendary or supposedly lost art, leaving the teachers wondering about Xie Chen’s true identity and abilities.
• The livestream’s audio is temporarily disrupted by the thunder. Viewers argue online about whether the event is real or merely special effects, while the production team jokingly benefits from the “fake special effects” explanation.
• After the lightning fades, Xie Chen confidently asks whether he has won. The disciplinary teacher is forced to admit defeat, then angrily scolds the students for running away.
• Director Li discovers that the thunder damaged the recording equipment, forcing the competition to pause.
• Director Li receives a warning from Zhang Zhong of the review department. Zhang praises the show’s popularity and social value but cautions that its increasingly supernatural content has attracted official attention. He advises Director Li to reduce or better control the mysticism in future episodes.
• Liu Ci calls Director Li, excitedly asking to use the show’s supposed special-effects team for his own production. Director Li is speechless because the “special effects” are actually being produced by Xie Chen himself.
• Before Director Li can explain further, an assistant reports that Xie Chen and the disciplinary teacher have begun fighting. Director Li rushes to stop them, fearing the elderly teacher may be seriously injured.
• At the training ground, the Villain Group casually watches the fight while eating sunflower seeds. Luo Mingyu assures Director Li that Xie Chen knows his limits, but an urgent cry from the battlefield suggests the situation may be getting dangerous. The chapter ends unresolved with Director Li terrified that someone might die.

Character Developments

• Xie Chen: Demonstrates overwhelming mastery of lightning techniques and remains confident and composed after frightening the entire academy. His arrogance and tendency to show off continue to attract attention, though he apparently exercises enough control not to seriously harm the disciplinary teacher.
• The disciplinary teacher: Is forced to acknowledge Xie Chen’s victory but becomes embarrassed and angry after the students flee. His frustration escalates into challenging Xie Chen physically, only to be apparently overwhelmed.
• Director Li: Becomes increasingly anxious about the consequences of Xie Chen’s powers. He must balance the show’s enormous popularity with official scrutiny, equipment damage, and the danger of the participants being seriously injured.
• Luo Mingyu and the Villain Group: Treat the fight as entertainment rather than an emergency, showing their confidence in Xie Chen and their casual, mischievous personalities.
• Zhang Zhong: Establishes that the authorities are monitoring the program and are concerned about its supernatural elements, increasing the pressure on Director Li.
• Liu Ci: Becomes an enthusiastic admirer of Xie Chen and mistakes his supernatural abilities for high-quality visual effects.

Significant Themes

• Power and public attention: Xie Chen’s abilities are so extraordinary that they draw both mass popularity and official scrutiny.
• The double-edged nature of fame: High ratings help the show succeed but also expose it to regulators, professionals, and public criticism.
• Reality versus performance: The audience and even industry insiders interpret genuine supernatural events as special effects because they cannot accept them as real.
• Comedic contrast: Terrifying, potentially lethal events are repeatedly treated as entertainment, producing humor through the contrast between the characters’ danger and the observers’ casual reactions.
• Control and responsibility: Director Li must determine how much of Xie Chen’s power can safely and publicly be shown, while also preventing anyone from being seriously harmed.

Important Character Interactions

• Xie Chen and the disciplinary teacher: Their talisman competition ends in Xie Chen’s clear victory, but the teacher’s humiliation leads him to initiate a physical confrontation.
• Director Li and Zhang Zhong: Zhang warns him that the show is under official observation and urges him to restrain its supernatural content.
• Director Li and Liu Ci: Liu asks for access to the “special-effects team,” unaware that Xie Chen is the source of the effects. Director Li is left unable to reveal the truth.
• Director Li and his assistant: The assistant alerts him to the fight, prompting Director Li’s panicked rush to the training ground.
• Director Li and the Villain Group: Director Li demands that they intervene, but Luo Mingyu dismisses his concern and insists that Xie Chen can control himself.

Xie Chen defeated the disciplinary teacher and made the purple-robed priests draw talismans before leaving, confirming the dean’s suspicion that he had come to challenge them. The chapter ended with Xie Chen overhearing Xie Ran plot to steal his hair for a harmful spell and confronting him.

• Xie Chen defeated the disciplinary teacher on the Bagua Stakes, then shared a bottle of water with Huo Wenye while the Villain Group teased them.
• Luo Mingyu and Li Sifan accidentally kissed while trying to prove they were sweet together.
• Xie Chen stopped the purple-robed priests from leaving until each had drawn a talisman, and he made the defeated disciplinary teacher join the line.
• Director Li decided not to livestream the scene because professionals had noticed that the events were not just special effects.
• Xie Ran called his mother and said he planned to steal a strand of Xie Chen’s hair to help kill him, but Xie Chen overheard and confronted him.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xie Chen confronts Xie Ran after discovering that Xie Ran attempted to use Thai Black Magic against him. He threatens to expose their conversation through a recording, though he later admits to Huo Wenye that he was bluffing.
• Xie Ran, already suffering from a ruined reputation, begs Xie Chen not to release the supposed recording. Xie Chen refuses to show mercy and leaves him frightened and helpless.
• Huo Wenye suggests installing a listening device on Xie Ran’s phone. Xie Chen rejects the illegal idea, while Huo Wenye immediately agrees to follow his wishes.
• Mother Xie secretly leaves her car, takes a taxi to an isolated villa, and meets a mysterious female spellcaster. She gives the woman Xie Chen’s photograph and asks her to deal with him.
• The spellcaster is shocked to learn the target is Xie Chen and warns Mother Xie that he is someone even she should not dare to harm, implying that Xie Chen possesses extraordinary power or protection.
• Meanwhile, Xie Chen and Huo Wenye work together to inspect and grade talismans submitted by Taoist priests. Xie Chen harshly criticizes poor craftsmanship, while Huo Wenye obediently records the failing grades.
• Members of the Villain Group are amused by Huo Wenye’s willingness to act as Xie Chen’s assistant. Feng Qing and Chenyue secretly bring Xie Chen the dean’s talisman for his reform project and promise to obtain the vice dean’s as well.
• The chapter closes with livestream viewers realizing that Xie Chen is effectively reforming the Six-Platform Mountain Taoist Academy.

Character Developments

• Xie Chen becomes increasingly confident, intimidating, and proactive in dealing with his enemies. He uses psychological pressure against Xie Ran and continues imposing strict standards on the Taoist academy.
• Xie Ran is shown as cowardly and desperate beneath his hostility. His damaged reputation and fear of exposure leave him dependent on Xie Chen’s mercy.
• Huo Wenye continues to display unusual obedience and loyalty toward Xie Chen. Their dynamic resembles that of a powerful, intimidating figure willingly submitting to Xie Chen’s authority.
• Mother Xie reveals herself as actively malicious, secretly seeking supernatural help to harm Xie Chen. Despite her arrogance, she becomes frightened when warned about her target.
• The spellcaster appears knowledgeable about Xie Chen’s true status or abilities, suggesting that his reputation extends beyond the ordinary world.
• Feng Qing and Chenyue contribute to Xie Chen’s academy reforms through comedic, covert efforts to obtain the dean’s and vice dean’s talismans.

Significant Themes

• Power and intimidation: Xie Chen’s calm threats and frightening presence force others to recognize his dominance.
• Consequences of wrongdoing: Xie Ran and Mother Xie both face anxiety after plotting against Xie Chen, while the academy’s poorly trained priests receive immediate criticism.
• Loyalty and submission: Huo Wenye’s willingness to obey Xie Chen highlights their growing closeness and unusual power dynamic.
• Reform and competence: Xie Chen demands discipline and genuine skill from the Taoist academy, rejecting laziness and superficial status.
• Comedy amid danger: Threats involving black magic and revenge are balanced by the humorous taxi ride, the group’s teasing, and Feng Qing and Chenyue’s chaotic partnership.

Character Interactions

• Xie Chen verbally dominates Xie Ran, who shifts from denial to pleading.
• Xie Chen and Huo Wenye exchange teasing remarks about surveillance and illegal methods, revealing mutual familiarity and trust.
• Mother Xie clashes humorously with the outspoken taxi driver before meeting the spellcaster.
• The spellcaster’s alarm at Xie Chen’s identity reverses the expected power balance, making Mother Xie realize that her plan may be dangerously misguided.
• Xie Chen directs Huo Wenye’s grading work while the Villain Group watches and comments on their relationship.
• Feng Qing and Chenyue cooperate to support Xie Chen’s academy reforms, though they immediately resume bickering once outside the room.

Mrs. Xie agreed to give Ranran a dangerous Yin Talisman to protect the Xie Family from Xie Chen’s restored fortune and the power she believed was Heaven’s Dao. Xie Chen and his companions captured the vice dean for using the forbidden Curse Art, and the dean recognized Xie Chen as the Patriarch and begged to be punished.

• A woman told Mrs. Xie that Xie Chen’s destiny had recovered and might be protected by Heaven’s Dao, so Mrs. Xie chose to give Ranran a dangerous Yin Talisman.
• After Feng Qing and Chenyue failed to obtain the vice dean’s handwriting, Xie Chen took Huo Wenye into a room, but Huo Wenye sensed the man who was strengthening his curse nearby.
• Xie Chen followed the baleful energy to the Cave of Reflection, where Feng Qing and Chenyue captured the vice dean with lightning talismans.
• Xie Chen accused the vice dean of using the forbidden Curse Art, and Feng Qing and Chenyue brought him to the main hall with Xie Chen.
• The dean recognized Xie Chen as the Patriarch, fell to his knees, and asked to be punished, leaving Feng Qing and Chenyue stunned.

Chapter Summary: “Feel Again Carefully, Don’t Be So Halfhearted”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Feng Qing and Chenyue excessively flatter Xie Chen after recognizing him as the Daoist Patriarch, while Xie Chen urges them to remain discreet about his identity.
• Xie Chen interrogates the headmaster and vice headmaster of Six-Platform Mountain Taoist Academy about how an evil cultivator and cursed talismans emerged under their administration.
• The vice headmaster admits he sold self-made talismans to earn extra money, violating palace rules. However, he claims the original wealth-bringing talismans were secretly altered into curses by someone else.
• The headmaster confirms that the academy’s financial difficulties—caused by government oversight, operating costs, and free tuition for poor students—contributed to the vice headmaster’s actions.
• Xie Chen suspects the vice headmaster may have been trying to undo the altered talisman rather than strengthen it. The vice headmaster’s fear of Xie Chen’s overwhelming power supports his claim that he was not deliberately acting against him.
• Xie Chen learns that the academy staff recognized him as the reincarnated Patriarch from his resemblance to a portrait and his unmistakable demeanor. The headmaster privately wonders whether he can finally give up his position, though he does not trust the vice headmaster to replace him.
• After returning to the production area, Xie Chen is warned by Director Li that government officials consider the show too fantastical. Director Li asks him to be more low-profile after his dramatic use of talismans and lightning.
• Back in the guest room, Xie Chen dismisses everyone except Huo Wenye and checks whether the Curse Art on Huo’s body has been removed.
• Most of the curse marks have disappeared, but two remain, confirming that the vice headmaster’s talisman had indeed been tampered with.
• Huo Wenye deliberately takes Xie Chen’s hand and places it against his chest, claiming that the remaining curse still hurts. When Xie Chen tries to withdraw, Huo pulls him closer and asks him to examine it “carefully,” creating a strongly flirtatious and intimate moment.

Character Developments

• Xie Chen: Demonstrates authority, suspicion, and responsibility as Patriarch. He investigates the academy’s misconduct but remains willing to consider the vice headmaster’s explanation. Despite his confidence and supernatural power, he becomes flustered by Huo Wenye’s physical closeness and flirtation.
• Vice Headmaster: Revealed to be irresponsible and financially motivated, but possibly not malicious. He violated rules by selling talismans, then became a scapegoat when someone altered them into curses. He is intimidated by Xie Chen and attempts to defend himself through exaggerated fear and submissiveness.
• Headmaster: Appears embarrassed by the academy’s mismanagement and openly relies on Xie Chen to discipline the vice headmaster. He acknowledges the academy’s financial struggles and begins considering retirement or transferring his duties.
• Feng Qing and Chenyue: Show their opportunistic, shameless loyalty by immediately switching sides and hiding behind Xie Chen when the vice headmaster becomes angry. Their admiration for Xie Chen grows after realizing his true identity.
• Huo Wenye: Becomes increasingly bold and physically forward with Xie Chen. He uses the lingering curse as an opportunity to initiate intimate contact and tease Xie Chen.
• Director Li: Acts as the practical intermediary between the production team and the authorities, anxiously trying to control Xie Chen’s public image and preserve the show.

Significant Themes

• Authority and recognition: Xie Chen’s identity as the Patriarch is accepted through his presence and power, even before anyone formally confirms it.
• Responsibility versus excuses: The academy’s leaders attempt to explain their failures, but Xie Chen insists that financial hardship does not excuse violations that may harm others.
• Bureaucracy versus the supernatural: The authorities’ concern that the show is too fantastical contrasts humorously with the very real supernatural events occurring around the production.
• Opportunism and shifting loyalty: Feng Qing, Chenyue, and the academy officials quickly adapt their behavior according to who holds power.
• Suspicion and hidden wrongdoing: The altered talisman suggests a larger conspiracy, with someone manipulating the vice headmaster’s work for malicious purposes.
• Romantic tension and restraint: Xie Chen tries to maintain dignity and self-control, while Huo Wenye deliberately tests his composure through suggestive physical contact and flirtation.

Important Character Interactions

• Xie Chen reprimands the headmaster and vice headmaster over the academy’s corruption and cursed talismans.
• Feng Qing and Chenyue openly demonstrate their loyalty to Xie Chen while provoking the vice headmaster through their sudden change of allegiance.
• Director Li pleads with Xie Chen to behave more discreetly for the sake of the television show.
• Xie Chen examines Huo Wenye’s remaining curse marks, but Huo turns the medical inspection into an intimate and provocative encounter, leaving Xie Chen visibly flustered.

A rumor that Xie Chen was the founding patriarch spread across Six-Platform Mountain, and an evening recitation unexpectedly turned into a ceremony honoring him. Afterward, Xie Chen kept wondering who had altered the talismans, while Huo Wenye confronted him about hiding his supposed identity.

• Students spread the rumor that Xie Chen was the founding patriarch, while Director Li tried to change the planned Sword Flight race to keep the show low-key.
• At evening practice, the Taoists turned toward Xie Chen, and he told them to stop staring.
• The discipline teacher announced that Xie Chen would lead the recitation, and the dean yielded the central position to him.
• The Taoists lit incense and bowed to Xie Chen as the founding patriarch, leaving the guests, crew, and Director Li dumbfounded.
• As everyone walked back, Xie Chen wondered who had altered the talismans, while Huo Wenye glared at Luo Mingyu and the others made room for them to be alone.
• Huo Wenye asked Xie Chen why he had hidden that he was the founding patriarch from him.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Under cover of a dark, stormy night, Xie Chen briefly considers killing everyone on Six-Platform Mountain to avoid explaining his connection to its Patriarch. Feng Qing and Chenyue sense his murderous intent and flee.
• Huo Wenye confronts Xie Chen about whether he is truly the reincarnation of the ancient Patriarch. When Xie Chen denies it, Huo jokingly—but intensely—demands a kiss as proof of his trust.
• Xie Chen is flustered and secretly willing, but Director Li interrupts before the kiss can happen. Huo is visibly irritated, while Xie eagerly uses the interruption to escape the awkward situation.
• The authorities contact Xie through Director Li and reveal that they believe he is the reincarnation of the founder of Six-Platform Mountain. Although they classify the information as a secret, Xie refuses to admit anything.
• The authorities explain that a group of Six-Platform Mountain disciples became evil cultivators and may have attacked Xie while he was teaching in the United States. His memories of the incident were erased using a Memory Erasure Technique.
• Xie realizes that important memories—possibly involving Huo Wenye—were taken from him. Furious, he loses control and destroys a wooden table with a single slap before Director Li reminds him to maintain a low profile.
• The authorities ask Xie to return to Harvard under the guise of teaching while secretly helping investigate and eliminate the overseas evil cultivators. Xie is astonished at the prospect of returning to Harvard, humorously imagining that the students should flee before the “Demon King” arrives.

Character Developments

• Xie Chen: His temper and immense power become evident, but he also shows vulnerability and confusion regarding his missing memories. His growing sense that he owes Huo Wenye suggests buried emotional or personal history. Despite denying his identity, his reactions strongly imply a connection to the Six-Platform Mountain Patriarch.
• Huo Wenye: He becomes increasingly direct and emotionally intense toward Xie, using the demand for a kiss to test Xie’s feelings. His anger at Director Li’s interruption reveals possessiveness and genuine romantic interest.
• Feng Qing and Chenyue: They demonstrate their awareness of Xie’s dangerous moods by immediately fleeing when they sense his murderous intent.
• Director Li: He acts as a practical intermediary, delivering the authorities’ message and trying to prevent Xie from exposing his supernatural abilities or causing further trouble.
• The Authorities: They treat Xie as both a powerful potential ally and a dangerous liability, keeping his identity secret while attempting to recruit him for an overseas investigation.

Significant Themes

• Suppressed identity and lost memory: Xie’s erased memories raise questions about his past, his true identity, and his relationship with Huo Wenye.
• Power versus restraint: Xie possesses overwhelming destructive power but must conceal it from the public and control his temper.
• Romantic tension and trust: Huo seeks emotional confirmation from Xie, while Xie’s embarrassment and reluctant willingness reveal attraction beneath his denial.
• Hidden conspiracies: The evil cultivators’ long-term activities and possible reasons for targeting Xie introduce a larger supernatural conflict.
• Comedy amid danger: The chapter balances serious revelations about memory manipulation and evil cultivators with Xie’s exaggerated reactions and humorous self-image.

Character Interactions

• Xie’s internal conflict with Huo’s questioning turns into flirtatious tension when Huo asks for a kiss.
• Director Li interrupts the almost-romantic moment, earning Huo’s silent hostility and giving Xie an excuse to retreat.
• The authorities’ phone call shifts Xie’s focus from romantic embarrassment to anger over his erased memories.
• Huo’s presence intensifies Xie’s guilt and suspicion that their shared past contains something important he can no longer remember.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xie Chen accepts an offer to return to Harvard as a professor, though he warns that his frightening reputation may cause public panic. He also mentions two pending lawsuits: a custody case and an unfair-competition case. The arrangements will proceed after filming ends.
• Director Li mistakenly fears that Xie Chen’s phone call concerns censorship or the cancellation of the variety show. Xie Chen dismisses his worries and threatens to have him blacklisted if he keeps shouting.
• Xie Chen wonders why Huo Wenye remains so fixated on Harvard and why their relationship feels as though it involves an old debt, hinting at unresolved memories or a past connection.
• Xie Ran learns from his mother that a Yin Talisman is being sent from Thailand. She claims it will counteract Xie Chen’s improved luck, which she believes comes from a “grand master” possessing him.
• Xie Jinran confronts Mother Xie, warning that the talisman could cause severe backlash, damage Xie Ran’s soul, or shorten his lifespan. Mother Xie insists that sacrifices are necessary.
• Xie Yongan coldly justifies the family’s ruthless behavior by comparing it to the bloody accumulation of capital. His words and his unsettling physical gesture toward Mother Xie suggest that the family is morally corrupted and close to collapse.
• At the cultivation school, the students learn that Xie Chen will leave the following day. The Reprimand Master orders them to behave impressively during their final opportunity to gain his approval.
• The students frantically demonstrate supernatural techniques—including lightning, earth manipulation, invisibility, wall-passing, sword flight, and apparent decapitation—in front of the cameras. Director Li desperately tries to stop the filming, but it is too late: viewers react with astonishment, calling the spectacle “fucking fantasy.”

Character Developments

• Xie Chen remains calm, intimidating, and sarcastic. He accepts the Harvard position but shows little concern about money or his frightening public image. His thoughts about Huo Wenye reveal confusion about their shared past and missing memories.
• Director Li becomes increasingly anxious and overwhelmed, especially as the variety show’s supernatural content becomes impossible to conceal. His attempts to maintain a normal production are futile.
• Xie Ran is desperate to overcome Xie Chen and eagerly accepts the dangerous talisman without understanding or caring about its consequences.
• Mother Xie is willing to sacrifice Xie Ran’s health and lifespan for the family’s ambitions. Although she briefly feels guilty, she rationalizes her actions.
• Xie Jinran emerges as the family’s moral dissenter. He recognizes the danger of the Yin Talisman and is horrified by how ruthless his parents have become.
• Xie Yongan reveals a cynical, ruthless worldview. He openly accepts the family’s exploitation and implies that their wealth and success were built through cruelty.
• The Reprimand Master is strict and embarrassed by the students’ earlier gossip, but he pressures them to perform well for Xie Chen’s approval.

Significant Themes

• Power and sacrifice: The Xie family treats human lives and health as acceptable costs for power and success.
• Moral corruption and family collapse: Xie Jinran’s rejection of his parents’ methods highlights the family’s growing internal fracture.
• Hidden identities and lost memories: Xie Chen’s uncertainty about Huo Wenye and Harvard suggests deeper secrets involving stolen memories and past-life or supernatural connections.
• Reality versus spectacle: The cultivation students’ genuine supernatural abilities are presented through a television-production framework, creating comic tension as the “fantasy” becomes public entertainment.
• Ambition and reputation: Xie Chen’s terrifying reputation contrasts with his academic and professional achievements, while the show struggles to control the image created by the students’ displays.

Character Interactions

• Xie Chen and the Harvard representative negotiate his return, with Xie Chen insisting that his reputation—not salary—is the main obstacle.
• Xie Chen silences Director Li’s panic with a threatening but casual remark.
• Mother Xie encourages Xie Ran to use the Yin Talisman, while Xie Jinran condemns the plan and warns of its consequences.
• Xie Yongan confronts Mother Xie and exposes the true cost of sacrificing Xie Ran, reinforcing their shared ruthlessness.
• The Reprimand Master reprimands students for gossiping and pressures them to impress Xie Chen.
• Director Li witnesses the students’ supernatural demonstrations and unsuccessfully tries to prevent the footage from reaching the audience.

Chapter Summary: “I’m Socially Anxious”

Key Plot Points and Events

• During the final day of filming at Six-Platform Mountain Taoist Academy, the discipline teacher criticizes the students for showing off their supernatural abilities during drills. At Xie Chen’s suggestion, he orders them to conceal their talents and behave more inconspicuously.
• Director Li worries that the Taoists will cause trouble or expose too much mystical behavior on camera. His concerns increase when he meets the academy’s eccentric vice president, confirming his belief that nobody at the academy is “normal.”
• The variety show filming concludes with an emotional farewell speech. However, the moment is ruined when all the Taoists emerge and formally salute Xie Chen as their “Patriarch,” shocking the production crew, guests, viewers, and Xie Chen himself.
• On the bus back to Kyoto, Huo Wenye unexpectedly asks Xie Chen to come to his house. Xie Chen assumes this means meeting Huo’s parents and panics because he feels socially anxious.
• Huo reveals that Xie Chen’s grandmother has been brought back from the nursing home and uses this as leverage to persuade him to come. Xie Chen agrees, while the gossiping guests interpret the situation as romantic progress.
• After arriving in Kyoto, Huo takes Xie Chen’s suitcase and leads him to his car. The cast says goodbye warmly, and Xie Chen promises they will meet again.
• The chapter ends with the driver mistakenly assuming Xie Chen and Huo are romantically involved. Xie Chen denies being Huo’s boyfriend, but the driver humorously concludes that Huo must be Xie Chen’s boyfriend instead.

Character Developments

• Xie Chen: Remains socially awkward and easily flustered, especially when confronted with public displays of loyalty or romantic misunderstandings. Although he claims reluctance, he clearly wants to accompany Huo and cares about seeing his grandmother.
• Huo Wenye: Becomes increasingly direct and possessive in his interactions with Xie Chen. Rather than openly explaining his motives, he calmly uses Xie Chen’s concern for his grandmother to ensure Xie Chen comes home with him.
• Director Li: Shows growing anxiety over the Tao Academy’s bizarre behavior and their inability to act normally on camera. His frustration provides much of the chapter’s comedy.
• The discipline teacher and Tao Academy members: Demonstrate their deep respect for Xie Chen while attempting, unsuccessfully, to hide their extraordinary abilities and avoid attracting attention.
• The gossip squad: Continues to interpret every interaction between Xie Chen and Huo as evidence of romance, enthusiastically encouraging the relationship.
• Xie Ran: Internally mocks Xie Chen’s obvious willingness to go with Huo and hints that he has a future plan involving the yin plaque.

Significant Themes

• Hidden identity and restraint: The Taoists are instructed to conceal their abilities, contrasting their supernatural world with the demands of public filming and ordinary society.
• The absurdity of fame and farewell: The supposedly emotional ending of the show is repeatedly undercut by comedic mistakes and the Taoists’ dramatic salute to Xie Chen.
• Romantic tension and denial: Xie Chen refuses to acknowledge the implications of his closeness with Huo, while everyone around them openly interprets their behavior as romantic.
• Found family and attachment: The cast, crew, and Taoists have formed meaningful bonds during filming, making the farewell sincere despite the chapter’s humor.
• Social anxiety versus emotional dependence: Xie Chen’s discomfort with social situations contrasts with his willingness to follow Huo when his grandmother is involved.

Important Character Interactions

• Xie Chen and Huo Wenye: Their awkward, indirect conversation on the bus highlights their growing intimacy. Huo’s invitation and Xie Chen’s flustered response create romantic tension.
• Director Li and the Tao Academy: Director Li repeatedly tries to maintain a normal production, while the Taoists’ strange behavior makes that impossible.
• The Taoists and Xie Chen: Their synchronized farewell salute publicly establishes Xie Chen’s exalted status as their Patriarch, embarrassing him and alarming the production team.
• Xie Chen and the gossip squad: The group teases him about meeting Huo’s family and treats his trip to Huo’s house as a major romantic development.
• Xie Chen and the driver: The driver’s misunderstanding provides the final joke, reinforcing how obvious the couple-like dynamic appears to outsiders despite Xie Chen’s protests.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Huo Wenye brings Xie Chen directly to the Huo family’s old residence for a family banquet, confirming the rumors surrounding their relationship and leaving Xie Chen unable to escape.
• Xie Chen desperately calls his manager and childhood friend, Lu Fei, for help, asking him to pick him up. Lu Fei hangs up and turns off his phone, leaving Xie Chen trapped in Huo Wenye’s car.
• They arrive at the lavish Huo family villa, whose traditional Chinese design prompts Xie Chen to comment on its feng shui. Huo Wenye teasingly reminds him of his reputation as the patriarch of Six-Platform Mountain Taoist Academy.
• The Huo family enthusiastically welcomes Xie Chen. Rather than behaving like a distant, secretive conglomerate, they are loud, warm, and informal, immediately treating him as one of their own.
• Huo Wenye introduces several relatives, though the family members quickly introduce themselves in a chaotic rush. He then leads Xie Chen to see his grandmother before the banquet begins.
• Xie Chen reunites emotionally with Chen Shuhua, who is suffering from dementia. He vows to find a way to cure her.
• Just as Xie Chen prepares to discuss medical treatment with Huo Wenye, Chen Shuhua grabs him and urgently declares that their family’s fate has been stolen, ending the chapter on a supernatural cliffhanger.

2. Character Developments

• Xie Chen: Initially panicked and resistant to attending the family dinner, he gradually relaxes when he sees the Huo family’s friendliness. His reunion with Grandma reveals his deep affection and concern for her, while his promise to cure her shows his determination and protective nature. His supernatural background is also reinforced through references to his Taoist knowledge.
• Huo Wenye: He remains calm, domineering, and teasing, preventing Xie Chen from escaping while subtly taking care of him. He appears comfortable bringing Xie Chen into the family and thoughtfully guides him through the relatives and to his grandmother. His smile upon seeing their reunion suggests genuine affection.
• Lu Fei: Although he is Xie Chen’s manager and childhood friend, he avoids getting involved after realizing Xie Chen is with Huo Wenye. His self-preserving reaction provides comic relief.
• Chen Shuhua: Despite her dementia, she recognizes Xie Chen and reacts with intense emotion. Her cryptic warning suggests she retains knowledge of a serious supernatural threat affecting the family.

3. Significant Themes

• Family and belonging: The Huo family’s overwhelming welcome contrasts with Xie Chen’s initial fear of being an outsider, suggesting he may soon become integrated into the family.
• Humor versus intimidation: Huo Wenye’s powerful and intimidating reputation is balanced by the Huo family’s boisterous, almost rustic hospitality, creating a comic contrast.
• Love and loyalty: Xie Chen’s emotional reunion with his grandmother and promise to cure her emphasize familial devotion.
• Supernatural fate: The final revelation introduces the larger mystery of the family’s stolen destiny, shifting the chapter from comedic family drama toward an occult or fate-related conflict.
• Hidden sides of powerful families: Despite their wealth and influence, the Huo family is portrayed as warm, chaotic, and deeply traditional rather than cold or aristocratic.

4. Character Interactions

• Xie Chen and Huo Wenye exchange sarcastic, combative remarks throughout the journey, with Huo Wenye consistently maintaining control.
• Xie Chen argues with Lu Fei over his failure to help, while Lu Fei prioritizes avoiding trouble.
• The Huo relatives enthusiastically overwhelm Xie Chen with greetings, introductions, drinking plans, and references to his television appearances.
• Huo Wenye physically guides Xie Chen through the family gathering, takes him to Grandma, and quietly gives them privacy.
• Xie Chen and Chen Shuhua share a deeply emotional reunion before her sudden warning about the family’s stolen fate.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xie Ran receives a sinister Yin Talisman from Mother Xie, intended to prevent Xie Chen from recovering. He willingly accepts it, revealing his determination to protect his position in the Xie family.
• Xie Yongan overhears Xie Ran’s support for the talisman and emphasizes that the family must unite against outsiders, regardless of the sacrifices required.
• During dinner, Xie Yongan announces that the family is facing a life-or-death crisis. He freezes Xie Yuchen’s cards and orders him to return to the United States, threatening to disown him if he fails to graduate.
• Meanwhile, Xie Chen remains troubled by his conversation with Chen Shuhua, who claimed that the Xie family’s fate had been stolen and demanded that he reclaim it from those responsible.
• After drinking at the family gathering, Xie Chen leaves with Huo Wenye, who has deliberately stayed sober to drive him home.
• During the drive, Huo Wenye reveals that he will wait for Xie Chen and has been accepted into an advanced law program, giving him a reason to remain near Xie Chen after the variety show ends.

Character Developments

• Xie Ran becomes increasingly fearful and calculating. Having learned that his biological father may discard him if he loses his usefulness, he suppresses his former arrogance and clings desperately to his wealth and status.
• Xie Yongan reveals a ruthless willingness to sacrifice family members and punish disobedience. His decision to freeze Xie Yuchen’s finances demonstrates how seriously he views the family’s crisis.
• Xie Yuchen, previously carefree and financially comfortable, is shocked when his father suddenly imposes severe consequences on him.
• Xie Chen is affected by Chen Shuhua’s warning and begins sensing that hidden forces connect his past, the Xie family, and the stolen “fate.” Though outwardly confident and humorous, he feels growing melancholy about leaving Huo Wenye.
• Huo Wenye continues to show patience, attentiveness, and romantic interest. He carefully observes Xie Chen’s mood, understands his behavior, and arranges to stay close to him.

Significant Themes

• Family loyalty versus self-interest: The Xie family claims to value unity, but its members are driven by power, fear, and survival.
• Inheritance and stolen destiny: Chen Shuhua’s warning introduces the possibility that the Xie family’s fortune or fate was taken from someone else.
• Supernatural conflict: The Yin Talisman and the discussion of “blood debts” deepen the story’s occult and karmic elements.
• Fear of abandonment: Xie Ran’s anxiety about being expelled and Xie Chen’s sadness over separation both show how vulnerable characters are beneath their outward behavior.
• Romantic tension: Huo Wenye’s restrained but direct affection contrasts with Xie Chen’s embarrassment and denial.

Character Interactions

• Mother Xie gives Xie Ran the Yin Talisman, while Xie Ran reassures her that he is willing to endure anything to defeat Xie Chen.
• Xie Yongan reinforces Xie Ran’s hostile attitude and later disciplines Xie Yuchen, exposing the family’s increasingly harsh internal dynamics.
• Xie Yuchen attempts to maintain a friendly relationship with Xie Ran, but his brothers’ indifference highlights the family’s emotional division.
• Huo Wenye drives the intoxicated Xie Chen home, questions him about Chen Shuhua’s words, and gently identifies the way Xie Chen usually hides his feelings behind bravado.
• Huo Wenye’s announcement that he will remain nearby leaves Xie Chen flustered, marking a significant step forward in their romantic relationship.

Chapter Summary

Xie Yuchen arrives at class exhausted and learns that Xie Chen, once feared as the “Demon King,” is returning to teach. Terrified of retaliation for his past abuse and neglect of Xie Chen, Yuchen skips class and calls his brother. He begs Xie Chen for help, explaining that their father has frozen his money and threatened to cut him off unless he earns his diploma. Xie Chen coldly rejects him, mocks his shamelessness, and warns him to “wait to die,” making Yuchen panic.
Meanwhile, Xie Chen attends the first hearing of the unfair-competition case with his assistant lawyer, Lu Fei. Reporters swarm him with accusations that he is seeking revenge against the Xie Family, charging excessive legal fees, bribing judges, and promoting superstition through his entertainment work. Lu Fei angrily defends him, but Xie Chen responds more aggressively, insulting the reporters and threatening to represent people they previously harmed. The reporters, aware of their own corrupt behavior, become frightened that he may sue them.
Xie Zhenting and Qin Huai appear, revealing their involvement in manipulating the media. Xie Zhenting pretends to support Xie Chen while publicly warning reporters not to speculate about the confidential case. The reporters immediately flatter him and declare their confidence in the Xie Group, showing that public opinion has been bought. Xie Zhenting smugly tells Xie Chen that he will make him cry after the hearing, implying confidence in victory.
Unfazed, Xie Chen mocks Xie Zhenting’s reliance on paid reporters. He and Lu Fei privately discuss investigating and suing the unethical media outlets involved. Their departure leaves the reporters terrified that Xie Chen’s threat was genuine.

Character Developments and Interactions

• Xie Yuchen: Becomes anxious and desperate, revealing his fear of Xie Chen’s revenge and his dependence on family wealth. His attempt to manipulate Xie Chen fails.
• Xie Chen: Demonstrates his harsh, vengeful personality but also his confidence, legal skill, and willingness to challenge both the Xie Family and corrupt media.
• Lu Fei: Acts as Xie Chen’s loyal assistant and openly defends him against the reporters.
• Xie Zhenting: Uses fake concern and media manipulation to intimidate Xie Chen and shape public opinion.
• Qin Huai: Supports Xie Zhenting behind the scenes, sharing his contempt for the reporters.
• Key interactions: Xie Yuchen begs Xie Chen for protection; Xie Chen rejects him. Xie Chen and Lu Fei work together against the media campaign, while Xie Chen and Xie Zhenting engage in an open confrontation filled with mutual provocation.

Significant Themes

• Family betrayal and revenge: Xie Chen’s hostility toward his brothers stems from their past mistreatment, while Xie Yuchen fears the consequences of his actions.
• Power and manipulation: The Xie Family attempts to control both Yuchen and public opinion through money and influence.
• Justice versus corruption: Xie Chen uses the legal system to fight unfair competition, media abuse, and powerful opponents.
• Reputation and public perception: Paid reporters manufacture a favorable narrative for the Xie Group, but Xie Chen threatens to expose their own misconduct.
• Confidence and intimidation: Xie Chen refuses to be cowed by the family or the media, turning their intimidation tactics back against them.

Chapter Summary: “Mercy to Enemies Is Cruelty to Yourself”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Before the court hearing, Xie Zhenting regrets having allowed Xie Chen to leave the Xie Family after seeing how confidently Xie Chen handled the reporters.
• Lawyer Qin Huai admits the case is risky because Professor Smith may present decisive evidence. He privately blames his own side for leaving behind a recording that supports Sun Feng’s claim and considers using public opinion and fabricated evidence to compensate.
• Pan Bing claims that he has bribed witnesses to provide false testimony against Sun Feng. Qin Huai and Xie Zhenting warn him that losing the case will have severe consequences.
• The trial begins, while paid reporters wait outside, assuming Xie Group will win and preparing a celebratory news report.
• The case unexpectedly ends in Sun Feng’s favor. The bribed witnesses apparently change their testimony, exposing the weakness of Xie Group’s defense.
• Qin Huai immediately distances himself from Xie Zhenting, publicly condemning the fabrication of evidence and abandoning the case.
• Xie Zhenting attempts to save face by claiming that Xie Group was also deceived and promising to pursue legal action against those responsible, then abandons Pan Bing.
• Pan Bing realizes he may owe tens of millions in compensation and collapses in panic.
• Sun Feng initially mocks Pan Bing but begins to show sympathy because of their former cooperation.
• Xie Chen intervenes, warning Sun Feng that Pan Bing would never have shown him mercy if their positions had been reversed. He demands that Sun Feng repay the legal fees, prompting Sun Feng to immediately admit fault.

Character Developments

• Xie Chen: Demonstrates confidence, intelligence, and psychological control. He sees through Sun Feng’s misplaced compassion and reinforces a pragmatic, unforgiving approach to enemies.
• Xie Zhenting: Becomes increasingly anxious and resentful as his legal strategy collapses. He prioritizes protecting himself and the Xie Group, abandoning Pan Bing when the situation turns against them.
• Qin Huai: Reveals himself as opportunistic and self-serving. Though hired to defend Xie Group, he quickly disowns them once defeat and potential criminal liability become apparent.
• Pan Bing: Is exposed as greedy, dishonest, and cowardly. His confidence in the bribed witnesses vanishes after the defeat, and he desperately begs Sun Feng for mercy.
• Sun Feng: Wins the case but initially considers sparing Pan Bing out of lingering personal sentiment. Xie Chen’s warning forces him to abandon that softness and focus on recovering his own losses.

Significant Themes

• Mercy toward enemies can harm oneself: The chapter’s central message is that compassion for someone who previously acted maliciously may only invite further exploitation.
• Greed and betrayal: Pan Bing’s scheme collapses because it was built on bribery and deception, while Xie Zhenting abandons him to protect himself.
• Self-preservation and accountability: Qin Huai and Xie Zhenting demonstrate ruthless self-protection, while Pan Bing is forced to face the financial consequences of his actions.
• The contrast between appearance and reality: The reporters confidently expect Xie Group to win, but the actual verdict overturns their assumptions and exposes the manufactured public narrative.
• Justice versus manipulation: Although Xie Group attempts to manipulate witnesses and public opinion, the court ultimately rules against them.

Character Interactions

• Xie Zhenting and Qin Huai discuss the uncertainty of the case, with Qin Huai privately criticizing the incompetence of their side.
• Pan Bing boasts to Qin Huai and Xie Zhenting about arranging false testimony, only to be threatened by both men when the plan fails.
• Qin Huai publicly condemns Xie Group and abandons Xie Zhenting immediately after the loss.
• Xie Zhenting shifts responsibility onto Pan Bing and leaves him to face the consequences alone.
• Sun Feng and Pan Bing confront their former partnership, with Pan Bing begging for forgiveness and Sun Feng wavering between revenge and pity.
• Xie Chen interrupts and persuades Sun Feng that sparing Pan Bing would be dangerous, ending the scene by making Sun Feng repay the legal expenses.

Chapter Summary: “How Do You Repay a Debt of Gratitude?”

Key Plot Points and Events

• After winning the first trial against the Xie Group, Xie Chen, Sun Feng, and Lu Fei celebrate at a bar.
• They discuss how Xie Chen persuaded the false witnesses to retract their testimony. Xie explains that he relied on their fear of legal consequences, damage to their reputations, and harm to their children’s future civil-service prospects.
• The group worries that the Xie family may make Pan Bing the sole scapegoat and avoid paying the full compensation. Xie Chen therefore plans to use public opinion to pressure them.
• News of the trial spreads rapidly online. Trending topics expose the Xie Group’s alleged manipulation of witnesses, Pan Bing’s accusations that he was made a scapegoat, and Qin Huai’s flight from the country.
• Online users praise Xie Chen’s courtroom performance and express excitement about his legal expertise. They also react humorously to rumors that he may return to Harvard and to his apparent romantic connection with Huo Wenye.
• Xie reveals that he will leave only after handling one more case.
• Lu Fei answers Xie’s phone without permission and invites Huo Wenye to the bar. Sun Feng and Lu Fei tease Xie about his relationship with Huo, provoking his mock threats.
• Huo Wenye arrives almost immediately. Lu Fei and Sun Feng tactfully leave the room, recognizing the romantic tension between the two men.
• Huo confirms indirectly that he arranged the online publicity campaign for Xie’s victory. When Xie offers to reimburse him, Huo says that money cannot repay a debt of gratitude.
• Xie suddenly experiences a strange physical reaction and collapses into Huo’s arms. Huo interprets this as Xie’s sincere attempt to repay him.
• The chapter ends by revealing that two people—apparently a mother and daughter—conspired to use a method involving an Yin Talisman to affect Xie. They believe the spell can only be broken if Xie finds a man, suggesting that Xie’s reaction was deliberately induced.

Character Developments

• Xie Chen: Demonstrates strategic intelligence and a strong understanding of human behavior. Although he is outwardly sarcastic and threatening, he is concerned about fairness, public accountability, and repaying favors. His composure begins to falter when Huo Wenye arrives and when the mysterious spell affects him.
• Huo Wenye: Shows quiet support for Xie by apparently arranging the online promotion of the court victory. His concern about Xie’s drinking and his confident handling of Xie’s “debt of gratitude” reveal increasing intimacy and possessiveness.
• Sun Feng: Remains emotionally expressive and openly dependent on Xie, joking about legal fees while sincerely admiring him. He also enthusiastically supports the possible romance between Xie and Huo.
• Lu Fei: Acts impulsively and mischievously, answering Xie’s phone and inviting Huo over. Though he fears Xie’s retaliation, he enjoys teasing him and helps create the chapter’s comic tone.
• Pan Bing and the Xie family: Their conflict continues indirectly through the media. Pan appears ready to expose the Xie Group, while the company attempts to shift blame onto him.
• The unnamed mother and daughter: Their brief scene establishes a new plot threat: they have deliberately targeted Xie with a supernatural or talisman-based scheme.

Significant Themes

• Law versus manipulation: The chapter emphasizes that legal accountability and personal integrity matter in modern society, especially when wrongdoing can affect one’s family and future.
• Public opinion as power: The trial’s consequences are amplified through trending topics, livestreams, and online commentary, showing how media pressure can influence corporate accountability.
• Debts and gratitude: Xie sees favors in practical, monetary terms, while Huo insists that genuine gratitude cannot always be repaid with money.
• Friendship and betrayal: Xie’s friends immediately sacrifice him to protect themselves when Huo arrives, creating comic evidence of their self-preserving nature.
• Romantic tension and vulnerability: Xie’s usual confidence is undermined by teasing, Huo’s presence, and the mysterious spell, bringing their unresolved attraction to the foreground.
• Comedy amid legal and supernatural conflict: Sarcastic threats, drunken behavior, romantic teasing, and the abrupt magical twist balance the seriousness of the court case.

Character Interactions

• Xie, Sun Feng, and Lu Fei bond over the victory, with Xie lecturing them about obeying the law while they praise his legal skill.
• Sun Feng and Lu Fei repeatedly tease Xie about Huo Wenye, treating their relationship as an obvious romantic pairing.
• Lu Fei deliberately summons Huo, then he and Sun Feng flee the room to leave Xie and Huo alone.
• Huo shows concern for Xie’s health, while Xie tries to repay Huo’s support financially.
• Their conversation shifts from awkward negotiation to charged intimacy when Huo reframes the issue as a debt of gratitude and Xie physically leans into him.
• The final revelation implies that an unseen antagonist has manipulated Xie’s body and may be deliberately pushing him toward Huo.

Chapter Summary

• Lu Fei and Sun Feng leave the private room after using the restroom, but when they peek inside and see Xie Chen in Huo Wenye’s arms, they assume the two are engaged in something intimate. Afraid of offending either powerful man, they decide not to interrupt and sneak away, even telling the restaurant owner not to disturb them. Lu Fei views this as helping Huo Wenye’s romantic opportunity, while Xie Chen sees their retreat as abandoning him.
• Xie Chen is suffering from the Yin Talisman’s effects, which make him overheated, weak, and unable to control his reactions. Huo Wenye tries to comfort him and restrain himself, initially misunderstanding Xie Chen’s pleas as an invitation to become intimate. Xie Chen clarifies that he only needs help finding a pen and paper so he can draw a talisman and redirect the backlash to Xie Ran.
• Xie Chen successfully draws the talisman, ending his own discomfort and sending the effects back to the source. Exhausted and drenched in sweat, he notices that Huo Wenye looks unwell and innocently assumes he simply needed to use the restroom. Huo Wenye, who had been struggling with his attraction and self-control, leaves in embarrassment.
• Xie Ran suffers the backlash at home. His intended scheme had been to use a Yin Talisman to make Xie Chen behave indecently during the court hearing, creating scandalous footage for reporters and pushing it onto the trending lists. Instead, the spell affects Xie Ran himself, leaving him feverish, tormented, and desperate for help.
• Xie Ran calls for his third brother, Xie Jinran, the only family member at home. Xie Jinran has already become disillusioned with Xie Ran after seeing his true character and responds with impatience rather than affection. When he finds Xie Ran collapsed upstairs, he reluctantly goes to help.
• Xie Ran impulsively embraces and kisses Xie Jinran, apparently driven by the talisman’s effects. Xie Jinran immediately pushes him away in disgust, condemns his behavior, and declares that he would rather have Xie Chen as his younger brother. This reinforces the family’s growing rejection of Xie Ran and their increasing appreciation of Xie Chen.

Character Development and Interactions

• Xie Chen remains powerful and resourceful, using his supernatural knowledge to neutralize the attack, but his innocent, straightforward behavior unintentionally intensifies Huo Wenye’s romantic frustration.
• Huo Wenye shows genuine concern for Xie Chen and struggles to maintain boundaries while Chen is vulnerable. His embarrassment highlights his growing attraction.
• Lu Fei and Sun Feng act out of fear and misplaced loyalty, humorously misreading the situation and abandoning Chen while believing they are protecting the couple’s privacy.
• Xie Ran is exposed as malicious and self-serving: his attempt to publicly humiliate Xie Chen rebounds upon him.
• Xie Jinran’s attitude changes further, as his disgust toward Xie Ran contrasts sharply with his regret that Xie Chen is no longer his younger brother.

Significant Themes

• Karmic backlash: Xie Ran’s scheme returns to him, turning his intended humiliation into his own disgrace.
• Miscommunication and comic misunderstanding: Several characters misinterpret events, especially Lu Fei and Sun Feng’s assumption that Chen and Huo are being intimate.
• Romantic tension versus innocence: Huo Wenye experiences strong attraction, while Xie Chen remains focused entirely on solving the talisman problem.
• Family rejection and changing loyalties: The Xie family’s patience with Xie Ran is collapsing, while Xie Chen’s value and absence are increasingly recognized.

Chapter Summary: “Who Will Compensate Me?”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xie Jinran leaves the villa after rejecting Xie Ran’s attempt to seek comfort and affection. He realizes that, unlike Xie Ran, he would never reject Xie Chen and regrets allowing Chen to leave the family.
• Xie Ran’s condition worsens because of the supernatural backlash caused by the curse intended for Xie Chen. Driven by uncontrollable urges and hallucinations, he behaves indecently in the villa’s hallway.
• When Xie Yongan, Mother Xie, and Xie Zhenting return, they discover Xie Ran’s disgraceful state. Furious, they order him locked in the basement.
• Xie Chen and Huo Wenye arrive at the villa. Chen reveals that he used a “Backlash Method,” causing anyone who tried to transform or curse him to suffer the same consequences themselves.
• Mother Xie angrily admits responsibility for the supernatural attack, confirming Chen’s suspicions. Xie Yongan immediately tries to silence her, worried about the family’s worsening scandal.
• Xie Chen declares war on the Xie family and hints that Xie Yongan himself once fell victim to a similar scheme. He suggests that Mother Xie used a “Head Curse” to force or manipulate Yongan into marrying her.
• Chen leaves with Huo Wenye, protected by Huo when Xie Yongan attempts to stop him.
• After Chen’s departure, Xie Yongan turns violently against Mother Xie, accusing her of cursing him and blaming her for ruining his life and forcing him into an undesirable marriage.
• From the car, Chen listens to Mother Xie’s screams and feels satisfied that the family is turning against itself. However, he then teasingly asks Huo Wenye who will compensate him for the trouble he has endured.

Character Developments

• Xie Chen becomes increasingly confident and assertive. Rather than merely defending himself, he actively retaliates against the Xie family, exposes their secrets, and enjoys watching their schemes collapse.
• Xie Jinran shows regret over alienating Chen. He recognizes Chen’s value and realizes he would have welcomed Chen’s affection, revealing jealousy toward Huo Wenye and growing dissatisfaction with the family’s current situation.
• Xie Ran is portrayed as both manipulative and vulnerable. His reliance on supernatural methods backfires catastrophically, leaving him humiliated, isolated, and treated as an embarrassment by his family.
• Xie Yongan loses control of the situation. His respectable, authoritative image gives way to suspicion, rage, and domestic violence once he believes Mother Xie deceived him.
• Mother Xie shifts from aggressor to victim. Though she openly admits attacking Chen, she becomes terrified when Yongan turns against her.
• Huo Wenye remains steadfastly protective of Chen, physically blocking Xie Yongan and following Chen’s instructions without hesitation.

Significant Themes

• Karma and backlash: Attempts to harm others return upon the perpetrators, making the chapter’s supernatural justice literal.
• Family hypocrisy and betrayal: The Xie family claims loyalty and familial affection while manipulating, cursing, and exploiting one another.
• Power and retaliation: Chen refuses to remain passive and uses knowledge, evidence, and supernatural methods to reclaim control.
• The collapse of appearances: The family’s respectable exterior disintegrates as hidden curses, forced marriage, resentment, and abuse are exposed.
• Possessiveness and favoritism: Xie Jinran’s regret highlights the family’s preference for Chen and the emotional instability caused by comparing the brothers.
• Compensation and emotional debt: Chen’s final remark suggests that, beyond defeating his enemies, he expects Huo Wenye to acknowledge or repay the suffering and effort involved.

Character Interactions

• Xie Jinran and Xie Ran: Jinran rejects Ran coldly, while Ran feels deeply humiliated and abandoned.
• Xie Chen and Xie Yongan: Chen confronts Yongan directly, mocks his attempts to avoid responsibility, and reveals that his own marriage may have resulted from a curse.
• Xie Chen and Mother Xie: Their confrontation exposes her role in the attack. Chen deliberately provokes her into admitting guilt.
• Xie Chen and Huo Wenye: Huo acts as Chen’s protector and obedient companion. Their comfortable, teasing dynamic is emphasized by Chen’s playful demand for compensation.
• Xie Yongan and Mother Xie: Their marriage collapses into accusation and violence once Yongan suspects that she manipulated him through supernatural means.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• After Huo Wenye helps Xie Chen deal with the Xie Family’s scheme, he demands compensation. When Xie Chen casually offers to do anything, Huo bluntly says, “I want you,” leaving Xie Chen shocked and confused.
• Huo drives Xie Chen home in a tense silence, then leaves abruptly, clearly angry and dissatisfied.
• Xie Chen tells Lu Fei what happened. Lu Fei realizes that Huo had expected their relationship to progress physically or romantically, but Xie Chen unknowingly stopped things short.
• Xie Chen struggles to determine how to repay Huo, considering money and even a romance-attracting talisman. Huo then messages him, asking to share Xie Chen’s single dorm room when Xie Chen goes to the United States for further study. Despite Xie Chen’s objections about there being only one bed, Huo insists that sharing it is ideal. Xie Chen reluctantly agrees.
• The next day, Xie Chen attends the audition and costume fitting for Journey Through the Sword Domain. He arrives amid an argument between veteran actress Li Jingfei and a young actress who insults her and accuses her of relying on connections.
• Xie Chen openly admits that he recommended Li Jingfei and sides with her. When the younger actress threatens to complain to the director, Director Liu Ci appears and dismisses her, criticizing both her acting and her arrogance.

2. Character Developments

• Xie Chen: Remains exceptionally intelligent but romantically oblivious. He understands Huo Wenye’s words literally rather than emotionally, unable to recognize Huo’s jealousy, frustration, and desire for intimacy. He is also protective of his friends and willing to confront people who insult them.
• Huo Wenye: Becomes more openly possessive and emotionally direct. His demand that Xie Chen “compensate” him reveals that he expects their relationship to advance, while his decision to move into Xie Chen’s dorm shows his determination to stay close.
• Lu Fei: Acts as the comic commentator and unofficial relationship adviser. He correctly understands Huo’s feelings and recognizes that Xie Chen’s poor emotional awareness is preventing their relationship from progressing.
• Li Jingfei: Displays her outspoken, sharp-tongued personality but also demonstrates seriousness toward her acting career. She is pleased and reassured when Xie Chen publicly supports her.
• The young actress: Is portrayed as arrogant, insecure, and dependent on backstage support, while lacking the humility and acting ability expected by the director.
• Director Liu Ci: Shows authority and fairness by refusing to tolerate the young actress’s poor behavior or weak performance, even if powerful people supported her casting.

3. Significant Themes

• Romantic miscommunication: Huo’s clear romantic intentions clash with Xie Chen’s literal-mindedness and lack of romantic experience.
• Emotional intelligence versus intellectual ability: Xie Chen is highly capable academically and practically, but his inability to interpret feelings creates repeated misunderstandings.
• Possessiveness and intimacy: Huo’s request to share Xie Chen’s room symbolizes his desire for greater closeness and a more intimate relationship.
• Loyalty and defending one’s allies: Xie Chen supports Li Jingfei publicly, refusing to let her be belittled or unfairly attacked.
• Merit versus connections: The audition dispute contrasts genuine ability and professionalism with arrogance and reliance on influential backers.
• Comedy through awkwardness: The chapter uses Xie Chen’s literal responses, Lu Fei’s teasing, and Huo’s blunt demands to create humorous romantic tension.

4. Character Interactions

• Xie Chen and Huo Wenye: Their car ride and later messages reveal growing romantic tension. Huo is direct and possessive, while Xie Chen remains flustered and confused, ultimately agreeing to share a bed with him.
• Xie Chen and Lu Fei: Lu Fei teases Xie Chen, then explains Huo’s likely feelings. Their conversation highlights Xie Chen’s romantic cluelessness and Lu Fei’s role as an amused confidant.
• Xie Chen and Li Jingfei: Xie Chen jokes about witnessing her argument but immediately defends her when she is insulted, strengthening their friendly, supportive relationship.
• Li Jingfei and the young actress: Their argument exposes the younger actress’s arrogance and Li Jingfei’s unwillingness to tolerate disrespect.
• Xie Chen and the young actress: Xie Chen confronts her directly after she insults Li Jingfei, confidently claiming responsibility for Li’s casting.
• Director Liu Ci and the young actress: Liu decisively rejects her threats and makes clear that neither connections nor money can excuse poor acting and bad conduct.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Qingqing leaves the studio in tears after Director Liu criticizes her acting and supports Li Jingfei. She initially blames the crew and demands that her assistant contact President Li, who invested one million in the production.
• President Li unexpectedly turns hostile. He warns Zhang Qingqing that she will have to compensate him if her behavior gets her removed from the show and reveals that he is terrified of offending Xie Chen and the powerful person behind him.
• Realizing that her position is unstable, Zhang Qingqing returns to apologize to Director Liu. She discovers that Li Jingfei is auditioning for the role of a terrifying, powerful witch.
• Li Jingfei delivers an intense and convincing performance, impressing Director Liu and proving that she is uniquely suited to the role. Zhang Qingqing is shocked by the gap between their acting abilities.
• Zhang Qingqing apologizes to Li Jingfei, though Li Jingfei harshly reminds her that she was the one who provoked the conflict. Zhang Qingqing swallows her humiliation and asks Director Liu for another chance to audition.
• At the dressing room, Li Jingfei encounters Xie Chen dressed in striking white robes as a sword immortal. She jokes about whether Huo Wenye knows about his appearance, internally imagining Huo Wenye becoming possessive.
• Before Li Jingfei can continue teasing Xie Chen, Ye appears at the studio entrance. Xie Chen immediately becomes nervous and internally curses his arrival.

Character Developments

• Zhang Qingqing is exposed as arrogant, impulsive, and reliant on her investor’s influence. Her confidence collapses when President Li abandons her, forcing her to recognize the limits of her status. Although she apologizes outwardly, her humiliation turns into resentment toward Li Jingfei.
• Li Jingfei demonstrates exceptional acting ability and commanding presence. Her performance confirms Director Liu’s belief that she is perfect for the witch role. She remains blunt and intimidating toward Zhang Qingqing but is playful and mischievous with Xie Chen.
• Xie Chen continues to hold significant influence within the production, as shown by President Li’s fear of offending him and the enthusiastic crowd gathered outside. Despite his public popularity, he becomes flustered when Ye arrives.
• Huo Wenye does not appear directly, but Li Jingfei’s thoughts portray him as intensely possessive and form the basis for her teasing.
• Director Liu remains professional and firm. He refuses to indulge Zhang Qingqing’s behavior and focuses on acting quality rather than her investment connections.

Significant Themes

• Talent versus entitlement: Zhang Qingqing expects money and popularity to earn her special treatment, but Li Jingfei’s genuine skill proves more valuable.
• The instability of fame and influence: Zhang Qingqing’s supposed protection disappears immediately when her investor fears Xie Chen’s connections.
• Respect and hierarchy in the entertainment industry: The production crew clearly understands that Xie Chen and the people connected to him hold considerable power.
• Humiliation and hidden resentment: Zhang Qingqing apologizes to preserve her career, but her envy and hostility remain beneath the surface.
• Playful romance and possessiveness: Li Jingfei’s teasing reflects her enthusiasm for the implied relationship between Xie Chen and Huo Wenye, while Xie Chen’s nervous reaction to Ye hints at romantic tension.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Qingqing argues with her assistant and pressures her to call President Li.
• President Li verbally attacks and abandons Zhang Qingqing, warning her not to cause further trouble.
• Director Liu rejects Zhang Qingqing’s attempted apology and tells her to apologize to Li Jingfei instead.
• Li Jingfei gives a powerful audition and later bluntly rebukes Zhang Qingqing for provoking her.
• Zhang Qingqing suppresses her anger and asks Director Liu to let her continue auditioning.
• Li Jingfei compliments Xie Chen’s costume and teases him about Huo Wenye, just before Ye’s arrival makes Xie Chen visibly uneasy.