Chapter Summary: Enemy Camp Reconnaissance

Key Plot Points

• Mu Ze, a survivor from Muten Stronghold, arrives at the Mountain Tribe's wizard cabin, bearing wounds and news of the Outcast Gang's attack on his stronghold
• The Outcast Gang killed the Muten Chief Wizard, massacred the tribe, and captured the stronghold
• Intelligence reveals the Outcast Gang has at least two High-Tier Totem Warriors
• Old Wizard Shan Yan decides on proactive action rather than waiting for attack, ordering a scouting mission
• Gao Jing volunteers to join the scout, bringing his drone for aerial reconnaissance
• Mountain Cat, the tribe's best scout, leads Gao Jing to Muten Stronghold through mountain paths
• Gao Jing uses his DJI Mavic 2 drone to survey the stronghold from above
• He discovers Giants being forced to mine ore under brutal conditions, with overseers whipping them mercilessly
• The reconnaissance reveals enemy brutality but provides vital intelligence for planning

Character Developments

• Shan Yan: Demonstrates strategic wisdom by choosing proactive reconnaissance over passive defense; decisive leadership
• Shan Tai: Shows growth in restraint, deferring to the wizard's strategy despite his aggressive nature; displays righteous anger toward enemies
• Gao Jing: Proactive in offering help; utilizes modern technology (drone) for the tribe's benefit; overcomes anger at witnessing cruelty to complete the mission
• Mu Ze: Grieving but resolute survivor willing to die for vengeance; represents the cost of the Outcast Gang's brutality

Significant Themes

• Proactive defense vs. passive waiting: The wisdom of gathering intelligence before acting
• Unity against common enemies: Past rivalries (Shan Tai and Mu Ze) set aside in face of greater threat
• Technological advantage: Gao Jing's drone represents modern tools aiding traditional warfare
• Cruelty and oppression: The Outcast Gang's brutal treatment of enslaved prisoners
• Courage and sacrifice: Willingness to undertake dangerous missions for community survival

Character Interactions

• Shan Tai and Mu Ze: Former rivals now united by shared hatred of a common enemy
• Gao Jing and Shan Yan: Trusting relationship; the wizard approves Gao Jing's participation
• Gao Jing and Mountain Cat: Effective teamwork despite Mountain Cat's quiet nature; Mountain Cat adapts to Gao Jing's needs
• Gao Jing witnessing cruelty: His internal fury versus restrained action for the mission's sake

1. Key Plot Points/Events

• A little Giant girl fleeing from Sinfolk Giants is cornered against a cliff and about to be killed with a bone club.
• Gao Jing, hidden in a tree several hundred meters away, cannot bear to watch. He uses his Barrett M107A1 sniper rifle.
• He kills the attacking Sinfolk Giant instantly with a headshot, then shoots two more pursuers, protecting the scene.
• Mountain Cat, Gao Jing’s Totem Warrior companion, leaps down on a vine, rescues the little girl, and climbs back to safety with Gao Jing’s sniper cover.
• A tougher Sinfolk warrior — a Totem Warrior — survives a bullet to the arm and rallies a chase.
• Gao Jing and Mountain Cat flee into the forest with the girl, pursued by angry Sinfolk, including multiple Totem Warriors.
• The chapter ends in a running battle through the woods, with Gao Jing firing repeated shots from Mountain Cat’s backpack to slow the pursuers.

2. Character Developments

• Gao Jing: Shows sharp moral instincts and empathy — the little girl reminds him of Shan Guo'er. He is willing to risk his own safety to save an innocent. His marksmanship, calmness under pressure, and ability to coordinate with Mountain Cat without prior discussion also stand out.
• Mountain Cat: Reinforces his role as a capable, morally grounded warrior. He is not angry at Gao Jing for acting on impulse; instead, he admires the action and immediately helps. He proves adaptive and protective, even while carrying the rescued girl.
• The Little Giant Girl: Terror-stricken but obedient once saved; clings to Mountain Cat and doesn’t hinder their escape.
• The Sinfolk Giants: Display cruelty, fearfulness, and savagery — some cower from unknown attacks, while stronger Totem Warriors show vengeance and persistence in pursuit.

3. Significant Themes

• Compassion versus survival danger: Gao Jing’s kindness puts the group in serious danger, but it is presented as a moral necessity.
• Sniper as equalizer: Gao Jing’s modern firepower neutralizes larger, stronger enemies who are otherwise physically superior.
• Teamwork and coordination: Two different fighters blend stealth, brute strength, and long-range precision without needing words.
• Cruelty of the world: The Sinfolk’s willingness to kill and eat a child underscores the brutal environment of the Giant lands.

4. Character Interactions

• Gao Jing and Mountain Cat act as a seamless strike-and-extraction team: Gao Jing shoots, Mountain Cat rescues, Gao Jing covers, Mountain Cat retreats.
• Mountain Cat’s admiration grows for Gao Jing; he does not question Gao Jing’s sudden use of the sniper rifle.
• Gao Jing’s emotional connection to the little girl mirrors his past bond with Shan Guo'er, driving his decisive intervention.
• The Sinfolk interact with hostility and one-dimensional cruelty: taunting the girl, screaming for revenge, and organizing a pursuit after their losses.

Chapter 14 Summary: "The Crime of Possessing a Treasure"

Key Plot Points

• Gao Jing uses a Barrett M107A1 sniper rifle to cover their escape from pursuing Sinfolk Giants. His first headshot misses, but he adapts by targeting the giants' large bodies, landing multiple hits.
• A wounded giant is forced to abandon pursuit. Gao Jing then shoots another giant in the knee, causing him to fall, and finishes him with a headshot.
• The remaining Outcasts, terrified by this unseen killing method, slow down and use trees for cover, allowing Mountain Cat, Gao Jing, and the rescued little girl to escape and return to Mountain Stronghold before sunset.
• The little girl is revealed to be Mu Cui'er from the Muten Tribe. She reports that Muten Stronghold was overrun by Outcasts, her father is dying from torture, and the survivors were forced to work in the tribe's mines.
• Mu Ze kneels and begs Witch Chief Shan Yan to save the Muten Tribe. Shan Yan agrees, citing shared danger from the Outcasts.
• Backstory revealed: The Muten Tribe had discovered a Seven-Colored Stone Mine (a gemstone used for jewelry and Witchcraft Artifacts) inside their stronghold. An Outcast leader posing as a merchant had gained their trust and led to the tribe's destruction—"a common man committed no crime, yet was punished for carrying jade."
• Shan Yan decides to dispatch warriors to punish the Outcasts.

Character Developments

• Gao Jing: Enters a remarkable state of "oneness with the gun" during combat, where his instincts, calculations, and shooting fuse perfectly. He realizes such rapid improvement can only come from life-or-death combat, and he gains confidence in his ability to protect himself in this world (against ordinary warriors and Low-Tier Totem Warriors).
• Mu Ze: Shows deep grief and humility, kneeling to beg for aid despite the tribes' past disputes.
• Shan Yan: Demonstrates strategic wisdom—recognizing that Muten Stronghold's fate could become Mountain Stronghold's if they do nothing. He also takes time to educate Gao Jing about Seven-Colored Stones.
• Mu Cui'er: A brave, sensible child who risked her life to steal food and medicine for her dying father.

Significant Themes

• "A common man committed no crime, yet was punished for carrying jade" (possessing a treasure invites calamity): The Muten Tribe's wealth in Seven-Colored Stones attracted predators they could not defend against.
• The value of real combat: Gao Jing's marksmanship breakthroughs come only through life-or-death experience, not training.
• Unity against a common enemy: Former rival tribes must cooperate against the Outcast threat.

Character Interactions

• Gao Jing & the Giants: His sniping terrifies and demoralizes the Outcasts, turning their ferocity into fear.
• Gao Jing & Shan Yan: The old wizard explains the Seven-Colored Stone trade, helping Gao Jing understand the conflict's root cause.
• Mu Ze & Mu Cui'er: An emotional reunion; her plea to save her father drives the tribe's decision to act.
• Mu Ze & Shan Yan: A formal appeal for aid, with Mu Ze kneeling—symbolizing his tribe's desperation and Shan Yan's authority.
• Mountain Cat & Gao Jing: Continue cooperating effectively, with Mountain Cat carrying him during the escape while Gao Jing provides covering fire.

Chapter Summary: “Attack of the Giants!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Before dawn, the Mountain Tribe prepares a major assault on Muten Stronghold, which has been occupied by the Outcast Gang. Their objectives are to destroy the gang and rescue the captured women and children of the Muten Tribe.
• Shan Tai leads one hundred heavily armed Mountain warriors, including more than a dozen Totem Warriors. Mu Ze and several Muten warriors accompany them.
• The old shaman, Shan Yan, performs a blood-marking ritual for the departing warriors, dramatically increasing their morale and unity. The warriors then march toward Muten Stronghold.
• Gao Jing remains behind at Mountain Stronghold because Shan Yan considers the raid too dangerous for him and wants him available to defend the tribe against unforeseen threats. Gao Jing nevertheless takes up guard duty on the stockade wall.
• While eating breakfast with Shan Guo’er, Gao Jing spots two Outcast giants approaching on Pack Beasts. He alerts the stronghold, and the tribe enters a defensive posture.
• The Outcasts identify themselves as Wu Huai and a companion from the Wutu Caravan. They request an audience with Shan Yan and claim to seek a peace agreement with the Mountain Tribe.
• Wu Huai presents Shan Yan with a massive green gemstone, called a Green Crystal, as a gesture of goodwill. Shan Yan refuses the gift.
• Wu Huai immediately attempts to flee, revealing that the meeting was likely deceptive or hostile. Shan Yan uses his earth-based power to summon rock spikes from the ground, killing both Outcasts instantly.

Character Developments

• Shan Tai demonstrates his leadership by personally commanding the dangerous raid against Muten Stronghold.
• Shan Yan is shown to be both a spiritual leader and an overwhelmingly powerful combatant. His ritual inspires the warriors, while his calm response to the Outcasts reveals his suspicion and decisiveness.
• Gao Jing continues developing into a reliable defender of the tribe. Although excluded from the raid for his safety, he accepts Shan Yan’s judgment, remains alert, and prepares to protect the stronghold.
• Shan Guo’er shows her concern for Gao Jing by bringing him breakfast while he stands watch.
• Wu Huai initially appears diplomatic and respectful but exposes his true intentions by trying to escape immediately after Shan Yan rejects the gemstone.

Significant Themes

• Unity and morale: The blood ritual strengthens the warriors’ shared purpose and symbolizes the importance of tradition in preparing for battle.
• Duty and sacrifice: The Mountain warriors risk their lives to rescue the Muten Tribe’s captives, while Gao Jing accepts the less glorious but equally important duty of defending the home front.
• Suspicion beneath diplomacy: The Outcasts’ peace proposal demonstrates that apparent goodwill may conceal ulterior motives.
• Power and authority: Shan Yan’s ability to judge the situation and eliminate the threat instantly establishes him as a formidable protector and leader.
• Community protection: The chapter emphasizes that defending vulnerable members—women, children, and civilians—is central to the tribe’s identity.

Character Interactions

• Shan Yan’s blood-marking ceremony unites him with the departing warriors and reinforces his authority.
• Gao Jing and Shan Guo’er share a brief, warm moment when she brings him food during his watch.
• Gao Jing alerts the tribe to the approaching Outcasts but deliberately waits for Shan Yan’s decision rather than acting beyond his authority.
• Shan Yan confronts Wu Huai and his companion under heavy tribal guard. Their courteous exchange quickly turns into a violent execution when Wu Huai attempts to flee.
• The chapter ends by highlighting Gao Jing’s astonishment at Shan Yan’s devastating earth magic.

Chapter Summary: “Green Crystal Spirit Energy”

Plot Points and Events

• Gao Jing reflects on the four occasions he has witnessed Shan Yan use his powers during his six months in Mountain Stronghold, each one deepening his admiration for witch adepts.
• Two Sinfolk Giant Outcasts approach the stronghold. Shan Yan effortlessly kills both by raising his hand and causing enormous stone spikes to impale them.
• The Mountain Tribe warriors search the corpses, reclaim useful supplies, and seize the two valuable Giant Rhino Packbeasts. They also recover a Green Crystal carried by the Outcasts.
• Shan Yan accepts the crystal as spoils of war, reasoning that he cannot negotiate with the Wutu Caravan because the tribe’s forces have already been sent to subdue the Outcasts occupying Muten Stronghold.
• The Mountain Tribe remains tense. Shan Yan’s advanced age makes spellcasting difficult, and everyone fears that more Outcasts may attack while Shan Tai and the other warriors are away fighting.
• That evening, Shan Guo’er brings Gao Jing to Shan Yan’s home. Shan Yan reassures him that the stronghold and the expedition should be safe.
• Shan Yan explains that the Green Crystal is the crystal core of a high-quality Green Seven-Colored Stone. It contains concentrated Spirit Energy, can be used in Witchcraft Artifacts, and is worth at least ten thousand Shell Coins.
• Gao Jing touches the Green Crystal and experiences an intense, pleasurable surge of Spirit Energy throughout his body. Shan Yan is surprised by Gao Jing’s exceptionally high compatibility with Spirit Energy.
• Shan Yan warns him never to touch a Green Crystal or similarly powerful Spirit Energy material before becoming a witch adept, since uncontrolled absorption can cause Spirit Transformation—physical mutation, loss of intelligence, and eventual loss of humanity.
• Ordinary Seven-Colored Stones are safe and may even benefit Gao Jing. Shan Yan promises that Gao Jing can collect some from the Muten Stronghold mine once it is captured.

Character Developments

• Gao Jing continues to grow in awe of Shan Yan and gains a deeper understanding of the power and status of witch adepts.
• His interaction with the Green Crystal reveals that he possesses unusually strong Spirit Affinity, suggesting significant potential as a future witch adept.
• Gao Jing demonstrates trust and respect toward Shan Yan by accepting his warning despite personally feeling no danger from the crystal.
• Shan Yan is shown as immensely powerful but physically burdened by age. He remains confident, protective, practical, and uncompromising toward enemies he considers dishonorable.
• Shan Yan’s refusal to accept the Wutu Caravan’s earlier gift as a diplomatic offering, while accepting the crystal as legitimate spoils, highlights his moral and political judgment.
• The Mountain Tribe is portrayed as vulnerable but disciplined, relying on Shan Yan’s protection while anxiously awaiting news of the warriors sent to Muten Stronghold.

Significant Themes

• The superiority and danger of power: Witch adepts possess extraordinary abilities, but even Spirit Energy can be dangerous when used without proper control.
• Potential and transformation: Gao Jing’s strong Spirit Affinity hints at future growth, while the threat of Spirit Transformation shows the price of advancing recklessly.
• Protection amid vulnerability: Shan Yan remains the tribe’s strongest shield despite his age, creating tension between his confidence and the Mountain Tribe’s precarious situation.
• Honor versus treachery: Shan Yan rejects peaceful conventions when dealing with the Wutu Caravan, whose ambushes and manipulations have proven them unworthy of diplomatic trust.
• Wealth and survival in the Great Wilderness: Packbeasts, crystals, and other resources are treated as critical assets capable of strengthening the tribe.

Character Interactions

• Gao Jing and Shan Yan: Their relationship combines admiration, trust, and mentorship. Shan Yan comforts Gao Jing about the conflict, teaches him about Green Crystals, tests his Spirit Affinity, and warns him against dangerous experimentation.
• Gao Jing and Shan Guo’er: Shan Guo’er acts as the messenger who brings Gao Jing to Shan Yan, continuing her role in connecting him with the tribe’s leadership.
• Shan Yan and the Mountain Tribe warriors: The warriors obey Shan Yan’s authority, recover the spoils of battle, and respectfully return the Green Crystal to him.
• Shan Yan and the Wutu Outcasts: Shan Yan treats them as hostile and dishonorable enemies rather than legitimate diplomatic opponents, killing their envoys and subduing their agents without hesitation.
• The tribe and the absent warriors: The people of Mountain Stronghold anxiously await Shan Tai and the others, revealing the close emotional bonds and shared fears within the community.

Chapter Summary: “Good News”

Key Plot Points and Events

• After dinner with the old wizard, Gao Jing returns home and spends the evening reading. Since moving to the Great World, he has revived his old habit of reading, finding books to be an important source of relaxation in a world without internet.
• Shan Guo’er knocks on his door and brings along Mu Cui’er, the recently rescued girl who is now under Shan Guo’er’s care. Shan Guo’er asks Gao Jing to tell them a story about knights and princesses.
• Gao Jing gives both girls lollipops. Shan Guo’er shares one with Mu Cui’er, allowing the newcomer to experience the joy of candy for the first time.
• Gao Jing enjoys telling stories to the children because their innocence gives him a brief escape from the worries and conflicts of life.
• The next morning, Shan Guo’er wakes Gao Jing with the news that Mountain Cat has returned from the expedition against Muten Stronghold.
• Gao Jing goes to the old wizard’s home, where Mountain Cat reports that Shan Tai and the Mountain Tribe’s warriors successfully captured Muten Stronghold.
• The Mountain Tribe used a surprise nighttime attack, catching the Outcasts off guard and inflicting heavy casualties.
• Shan Tai fought two High-Tier Totem Warriors at once, killing one and seriously injuring the other. During the battle, he broke through to the Totem Grand Warrior realm.
• If Shan Tai successfully fuses with a Beast Soul, he will become the Mountain Tribe’s first Array Totem Grand Warrior. The victory and Shan Tai’s breakthrough lead to widespread celebration in the stronghold.

Character Developments

• Gao Jing: Reconnects with his former love of reading and finds emotional comfort in caring for and entertaining the children. His relationship with Shan Guo’er continues to resemble that of a protective older brother or guardian.
• Shan Guo’er: Shows her generosity and growing sense of responsibility by sharing her special storytelling time and candy with Mu Cui’er. She also eagerly takes responsibility for helping care for the newcomer.
• Mu Cui’er: Begins adapting to her new surroundings after being cleaned, given fresh clothing, and welcomed by Shan Guo’er and Gao Jing. Her delight at tasting the lollipop hints at the return of childlike happiness after hardship.
• Shan Tai: Proves himself as an exceptionally powerful and courageous warrior by defeating two enemies and achieving a major breakthrough in battle.
• Shan Yan: Displays immense pride and relief over the military victory and Shan Tai’s advancement, reflecting his hopes for the future of the Mountain Tribe.
• Mountain Cat: Returns successfully from the expedition and delivers the important news, strengthening his role as a valuable guide and ally to the tribe.

Significant Themes

• Innocence and emotional healing: The children’s storytelling session offers Gao Jing a peaceful refuge from danger and political conflict.
• Generosity and community: Shan Guo’er willingly shares her candy and time with Mu Cui’er, emphasizing compassion and communal care.
• Growth through responsibility: Shan Guo’er begins acting as a caretaker, while Gao Jing takes a more active nurturing role in the children’s lives.
• Triumph and progress: The capture of Muten Stronghold represents a major victory for the Mountain Tribe, while Shan Tai’s breakthrough symbolizes the tribe’s growing strength.
• Happiness amid hardship: Small joys—books, stories, candy, and companionship—exist alongside warfare and danger, giving the characters emotional balance.

Character Interactions

• Gao Jing and Shan Guo’er share a warm, familiar bond built around nightly stories and mutual affection.
• Shan Guo’er introduces Mu Cui’er to Gao Jing, reassuring her that he is kind and a good storyteller.
• Shan Guo’er shares her lollipop with Mu Cui’er, helping the frightened newcomer feel included.
• Gao Jing welcomes Mu Cui’er without hesitation and treats both girls with equal warmth.
• Shan Guo’er enthusiastically wakes Gao Jing and brings him to hear the news of the military victory.
• Shan Yan and Mountain Cat discuss the successful campaign, while the wider tribe gathers around them to celebrate Shan Tai’s achievement.

Chapter Summary: “Seven-Colored Stone”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Mountain Cat reports that Shan Tai and the Mountain Warriors nearly destroyed the Wutu Outcast Band in a surprise attack. Only about a dozen Outcasts escaped, while the Mountain Tribe suffered roughly thirty casualties—five dead, three seriously wounded, and the rest lightly injured.
• The victory saved Muten Stronghold and rescued five or six hundred Muten tribespeople. Since Muten’s shaman chief had died, the Mountain Tribe gained the customary right to determine the survivors’ fate.
• The Muten people agree to merge with the Mountain Tribe rather than remain vulnerable on their own. Their supplies, weapons, food, furs, and trade goods are transported to Mountain Stronghold before winter.
• Gao Jing returns to Muten Stronghold with Mountain Cat, partly to see the famous Seven-Colored Stone mine. He examines several ores containing beautiful jade-like stones in blue, green, purple, white, and other colors.
• Gao Jing detects a small amount of Spirit Energy in the stones, though far less than in Green Crystals. He suspects the material may be valuable jadeite from the Main World, possibly including extremely expensive Imperial Green jade.
• He collects several ore fragments and plans to have them appraised in the Main World. Large quantities of discarded ore are later transported to his home near Ten-Mile Slope.
• Once the Muten Tribe has relocated, Shan Tai seals and destroys the mine at the request of Muten’s former shaman, ending access to the resource that attracted the Outcasts and caused the tribe’s destruction.

Character Developments

• Shan Tai emerges as the decisive protector of Muten Stronghold. During the battle, he defeats two powerful enemies alone and breaks through into a new realm, becoming stronger than an ordinary Totem Warrior.
• Despite his victory, Shan Tai has not yet mastered his increased power. His aura is so intense that Gao Jing must activate his own Totem Power to withstand it. Shan Tai will need time to control his strength and eventually fuse with a Beast Soul to become a true Totem Grand Warrior.
• Gao Jing becomes increasingly confident and opportunistic. He is disappointed at missing the battle but is more interested in investigating the mine and recognizing its possible value in the Main World. His improved financial situation also gives him a calmer, less desperate attitude.
• Mountain Cat continues acting as a reliable messenger and guide, transporting Gao Jing and helping oversee the aftermath of the battle and relocation.
• The Muten people accept integration into the Mountain Tribe, prioritizing safety and survival over maintaining their separate tribal identity.

Significant Themes

• Victory and sacrifice: Although the Mountain Tribe suffers deaths and injuries, such losses are regarded as honorable and relatively small compared with the destruction avoided.
• Tribal survival and assimilation: The chapter emphasizes that tribes in the Great Wilderness commonly merge, absorb one another, and grow stronger through consolidation.
• The dangers of wealth: The Seven-Colored Stone mine brought greed, conflict, and ruin to the Muten Tribe. Its destruction shows that valuable resources can become sources of disaster.
• Changing value and perspective: To the Great Wilderness tribes, the stones are useful trade goods; to Gao Jing, they may represent immense wealth in the Main World. The same resource has radically different significance in each world.
• Protection versus independence: The Muten Tribe gives up its separate stronghold and identity in exchange for the Mountain Tribe’s protection, especially with winter approaching.

Character Interactions

• Mountain Cat reports the battle’s outcome to Shan Yan and later brings Gao Jing to Shan Tai.
• Shan Tai apologizes to Gao Jing for the pressure caused by his newly increased power, and Gao Jing responds by activating his Totem Power rather than showing fear.
• Shan Tai readily grants Gao Jing permission to inspect and take samples from the mine, treating the resource as a minor favor because the mine now belongs to the Mountain Tribe.
• Gao Jing and Mountain Cat explore the mine together, with Gao Jing examining the ores while Mountain Cat helps him access and transport them.
• The Mountain Tribe and Muten people cooperate in relocating the entire tribe and its remaining supplies, while Shan Tai ultimately honors the former shaman’s wish by sealing the dangerous mine.

Chapter Summary: The Caravan Came Again

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Three days after the Muten Tribe relocates to Mountain Stronghold, a torrential storm lasts four days and four nights, accompanied by hail.
• The Mountain Tribe’s preparations prove successful: over a hundred wooden huts had been built, ensuring that every Muten tribesperson has shelter.
• Despite fears of conflict between the former rival tribes, the Muten and Mountain tribes integrate peacefully and warmly.
• The heavy rain does not cause flooding. The Great Falls grows more powerful, but the deep pool and valley stream remain at their usual levels, suggesting the valley is naturally safe.
• After the storm ends, a long horn signals the arrival of the Qing River Caravan.
• The caravan is larger than before, with more pack beasts, carts, goods, and guards, though its people are exhausted and covered in mud from traveling through the storm.
• The caravan trades five cartloads of food and one hundred Black Iron Spears for several hundred high-quality pieces of Seven-Colored Stone.
• Zhi Qi then offers 50,000 Shell Coins to purchase Muten Stronghold and its remaining Seven-Colored Stone mine.
• Gao Jing subtly warns Shan Yan against accepting the offer. Shan Yan refuses, arguing that the Mountain Tribe must preserve territory for future development.

2. Character Developments

• Gao Jing becomes increasingly invested in the Mountain Tribe’s welfare. He is relieved by the peaceful integration of the Muten people and demonstrates foresight by preventing the sale of Muten Stronghold.
• Shan Yan shows leadership and wisdom, though he briefly considers Zhi Qi’s lucrative offer before ultimately recognizing the strategic and emotional importance of retaining the former stronghold.
• Shan Tai has become a Great Warrior after breaking through during the raid on Muten Stronghold. His relationship with Qing Lan is openly romantic, and she privately pulls him aside during the caravan’s arrival.
• Shan Ze, formerly Mu Ze of the Muten Tribe, has fully adopted the Mountain Tribe’s identity and surname. He advances to become a High-Tier Totem Warrior, making him the tribe’s third-strongest fighter. His reaction to the refusal to sell Muten Stronghold reveals his emotional attachment to his former home.
• Zhi Qi appears more respectful toward the Mountain Tribe than during the previous visit, while also revealing his interest in acquiring the valuable Muten mine.
• Qing Lan and Shan Tai continue developing their close relationship, which is now recognized by the tribe.

3. Significant Themes

• Unity and reconciliation: Former enemies successfully merge into one community, demonstrating the Mountain Tribe’s generosity and the power of mutual acceptance.
• Leadership and long-term vision: Shan Yan’s final decision emphasizes protecting the tribe’s future rather than pursuing immediate wealth.
• Home and identity: Although the Muten people have changed their surnames and joined the Mountain Tribe, Muten Stronghold remains emotionally significant as their ancestral home.
• Resource value and exploitation: The Seven-Colored Stone mine represents both economic opportunity and the danger of sacrificing strategic resources for short-term gain.
• Nature and survival: The storm highlights the harshness of the wilderness, while the valley’s miraculous resistance to flooding reinforces its importance as a safe settlement.
• Romantic and social bonds: Qing Lan and Shan Tai’s relationship adds warmth and reflects the growing stability of the tribe.

4. Character Interactions

• The Mountain Tribe shelters the relocated Muten people during the storm, reinforcing their acceptance and solidarity.
• Gao Jing observes the tribes’ peaceful integration and later influences Shan Yan’s decision through a meaningful cough.
• Qing Lan openly approaches Shan Tai and privately discusses an important matter with him, implying romantic or personal developments.
• Shan Yan and Zhi Qi negotiate the trade of food and weapons for Seven-Colored Stone.
• Zhi Qi attempts to negotiate directly for Muten Stronghold, but Shan Yan refuses after Gao Jing’s intervention.
• Shan Ze silently expresses gratitude toward Gao Jing and Shan Yan for preserving the former Muten homeland.

Chapter Summary: "Another Clash"

Key Plot Points

• The Qing River Caravan departs after completing its transaction, leaving Gao Jing alone with the merchant Zhi Qi
• Zhi Qi confronts Gao Jing, resentful that Gao Jing's warning to Old Wizard Shan Ze ruined his deal to purchase Muten Stronghold (the Mountain Tribe's fortress)—a deal Zhi Qi wanted for its Seven-Colored Stone Mine
• Gao Jing subtly demonstrates his own interest in the mine and his ability to supply the Mountain Tribe with goods worth up to five million Shell Coins, despite having no money at present
• Zhi Qi shows off by smoking a cigarette; Gao Jing counters by producing cigars, whiskey, and fine accessories from his backpack
• Gao Jing teaches the maidservant Xiao Dai how to light a cigar; Zhi Qi chokes on his first puff, further losing face
• Gao Jing gifts Zhi Qi two bottles of whiskey to compensate for the ruined deal
• Zhi Qi reciprocates by producing a sandalwood box from a spatial storage device (the Silver Serpent Ring), surprising Gao Jing
• Zhi Qi presents Gao Jing with a Witchcraft Artifact: the Phantom Wing Pendant, which seals the essence of a Winged Spirit Rat and grants the user Phantom Wings to glide through the air—complementing Gao Jing's existing Weaver's Bracer

Character Developments

• Gao Jing: Shows social cunning—deliberately intervenes to sabotage Zhi Qi's deal, then dominates the merchant through displays of luxury and status. His smooth cigar-lighting ritual reveals practiced refinement, implying noble origins.
• Zhi Qi: Humiliated and crushed into a sense of inferiority by Gao Jing's aristocratic bearing, yet ultimately regains some psychological footing by demonstrating Wuzhi Abyss City's Witchcraft Artifact capabilities—something Great Xia may lack.

Significant Themes

• Class and status: The conflict between nouveau riche wealth (Zhi Qi) and inherited aristocratic refinement (Gao Jing)
• Resource competition: Both parties covet the Seven-Colored Stone Mine; diplomatic courtesy masks underlying rivalry
• Reciprocity and one-upmanship: Gift-giving as a form of psychological warfare and social positioning
• Intimidation through display: Showing off rare goods to assert dominance

Character Interactions

• Gao Jing's relationship with Zhi Qi is a mask of politeness over open commercial antagonism; Zhi Qi is bitter but forced to maintain courtesy given Gao Jing's presumed noble background
• The interaction with the maidservant Xiao Dai is brief—she is a pawn in the social theater, needing her master's permission before serving Gao Jing
• The exchange of gifts ends the encounter on superficially amicable terms, but both parties now understand each other as rivals

Chapter Summary: “Everyone’s Delighted”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gao Jing examines the Phantom Wing Pendant and realizes that Zhi Qi likely had it prepared specifically for him, possibly as part of an attempt to manipulate or ambush him.
• Although Gao Jing is less interested in the pendant itself, he becomes focused on Zhi Qi’s spatial storage artifact, the Void Ring.
• Zhi Qi reveals that the Void Ring was crafted by Wu Fang, a renowned Grand Refining Master, and contains a storage space measuring three ren on each side—roughly 27 cubic meters.
• Gao Jing attempts to buy the ring. Zhi Qi pretends to refuse in order to drive up the price, but Gao Jing immediately abandons the negotiation, frustrating Zhi Qi’s tactic.
• Even without purchasing the ring, Gao Jing realizes that knowing such artifacts exist gives him a convenient explanation for the Copper Anchor’s storage abilities. He can now claim to possess a Void Witchcraft Artifact rather than conceal the Copper Anchor.
• Gao Jing offers Zhi Qi a bottle of strong Red Star Battle Liquor—actually Red Star Erguotou with its label removed. Zhi Qi is shocked by its intensity and becomes even more impressed by Great Xia.
• Gao Jing intends to use cigarettes and strong liquor as major trade goods in the Abyss, particularly because the underground Abyss Cities are damp, dark, and well suited to the consumption of such products.
• The trade negotiations also address the Mountain Tribe’s winter food shortage. After absorbing the Muten Tribe, the population has risen to around 1,500, making their grain reserves insufficient.
• After more than an hour of bargaining, Gao Jing secures twelve additional cartloads of grain and obtains a new Witchcraft Artifact, the Barbarian Bull Bracer, which increases strength.
• Zhi Qi also considers the exchange worthwhile, leaving both sides satisfied.

Character Developments

• Gao Jing demonstrates greater confidence and strategic flexibility. Rather than desperately pursuing the Void Ring, he recognizes that simply learning about spatial artifacts solves his larger problem.
• He also shows growing concern for the Mountain Tribe’s welfare, prioritizing enough grain to help them survive the winter comfortably rather than focusing solely on personal profit.
• Zhi Qi is portrayed as a shrewd, status-conscious merchant. He takes pride in owning the rare Void Ring and tries to manipulate Gao Jing by pretending it is not for sale, but his tactic fails.
• Zhi Qi’s admiration for Great Xia increases after tasting its powerful liquor, reinforcing his belief that the civilization is mysterious and advanced.
• Their relationship becomes more cooperative and commercially productive, despite their mutual attempts to gain the upper hand in negotiations.

Significant Themes

• Resourcefulness and adaptability: Gao Jing turns a failed purchase into a strategic advantage by using his knowledge of spatial equipment to justify the Copper Anchor’s abilities.
• Trade and cultural exchange: Tobacco, liquor, grain, and magical artifacts become tools for establishing economic ties between Great Xia and the Abyss.
• Mutual benefit over outright conflict: Both Gao Jing and Zhi Qi bargain aggressively, but the final agreement benefits each side.
• Leadership and responsibility: Gao Jing’s decision to secure additional grain reflects his growing role as a leader responsible for the survival and prosperity of a larger population.
• Perception and status: Artifacts such as the Void Ring symbolize wealth and position, while Great Xia’s liquor causes Zhi Qi to view the civilization with increased respect and awe.

Character Interactions

• Gao Jing and Zhi Qi engage in a tense but humorous negotiation over the Void Ring. Zhi Qi tries to appear unwilling to sell, while Gao Jing refuses to be drawn into a bidding game.
• Gao Jing gives Zhi Qi the Phantom Wing Pendant while accepting Zhi Qi’s goodwill, establishing a superficially friendly but calculated exchange.
• The liquor tasting session strengthens Zhi Qi’s fascination with Great Xia and gives Gao Jing an opportunity to promote future trade.
• Their final negotiation balances Gao Jing’s need for grain and useful artifacts with Zhi Qi’s commercial interests, ending with both men satisfied—hence the chapter’s title, “Everyone’s Delighted.”

Chapter Summary: Phantom Wing Pendant

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Mountain Tribe receives a massive shipment of millet traded by Gao Jing from the Qing River Caravan. The food is stored as winter provisions, solving the tribe’s urgent shortage after its population doubled.
• Shan Yan admits that he almost agreed to sell Muten Stronghold to Zhi Qi. Gao Jing points out that doing so would have alienated the Muten tribespeople and caused long-term losses.
• Grateful for Gao Jing’s advice and support, Shan Yan gives him ownership of the Seven-Colored Stone Mine at Muten Stronghold.
• After the caravan departs, Gao Jing returns to Ten-Mile Slope and examines the two Witchcraft Artifacts he obtained from Zhi Qi:
  • The Barbarian Bull Bracer, which boosts physical strength.
  • The Phantom Wing Pendant, which creates large black wings that allow gliding.
• Gao Jing discovers that the artifacts’ Steel-Soul Stones are impure and nearly worthless. He replaces them with Arkansas rough diamonds, greatly increasing the artifacts’ power.
• He theorizes that Steel-Soul Stones function as energy cores because they contain Spirit Energy, explaining why natural diamonds work while artificial diamonds do not.
• Gao Jing experiments with the Barbarian Bull Bracer and gains roughly a twenty-percent increase in strength. He then tests the Phantom Wing Pendant, learning to glide through the air.
• After practicing indoors, Gao Jing launches himself from a thousand-meter cliff and glides above the valley and waterfall.
• He notices Shan Tai lying miserably beside a stream and lands beside him to find out what is wrong.

Character Developments

• Gao Jing demonstrates growing loyalty to the Mountain Tribe. Unlike his strict bargaining with Zhi Qi, he willingly gives the tribe whatever it needs without calculating personal profit.
• His influence within the tribe increases, reflected in Shan Yan awarding him the Seven-Colored Stone Mine.
• Gao Jing continues developing his understanding of Witchcraft Artifacts and Spirit Energy, showing both practical intelligence and scientific curiosity.
• He also gains confidence and skill with the Phantom Wing Pendant, rapidly progressing from basic gliding to controlled aerial movement.
• Shan Yan shows humility by acknowledging his earlier mistake and recognizing Gao Jing’s wisdom.
• Shan Tai appears deeply depressed or heartbroken, creating a new emotional mystery at the chapter’s conclusion.

Significant Themes

• Loyalty versus profit: Gao Jing treats the Mountain Tribe as family, prioritizing its welfare over financial gain.
• Long-term thinking: Preserving Muten Stronghold protects the tribe’s unity and future relationships, while the millet trade addresses its immediate survival needs.
• Resourcefulness and adaptation: Gao Jing improves flawed Witchcraft Artifacts by replacing their inferior energy cores with natural diamonds.
• Knowledge and experimentation: His theories about Spirit Energy and his repeated testing of the artifacts show a methodical effort to understand the supernatural world.
• Freedom and discovery: The Phantom Wing Pendant gives Gao Jing a thrilling new sense of movement and freedom through the skies.

Character Interactions

• Gao Jing and Shan Yan: Shan Yan expresses gratitude for Gao Jing preventing the sale of Muten Stronghold, and rewards him with the Seven-Colored Stone Mine. Their exchange reflects mutual trust and growing kinship.
• Gao Jing and Zhi Qi: Though Zhi Qi is absent, their previous negotiations reveal Gao Jing’s hard bargaining and refusal to accept poor-quality Steel-Soul Stones at unreasonable prices.
• Gao Jing and Shan Tai: The chapter ends with Gao Jing discovering Shan Tai in a sorrowful state and approaching him, setting up an emotional conversation in the next scene.

Summary of "Love's Power"

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Gao Jing finds Shan Tai drunk and depressed on a giant rock at Ten-Mile Slope.
• Shan Tai reveals that Qing Lan, the female knight he loves from the Qing River Caravan, is to be engaged next year by her family's arrangement.
• Shan Tai explains the backstory: he saved Qing Lan from Sabertooth Tigers two years ago, they fell in love, but her powerful family opposes the match due to his low status, his five existing wives, and the Mountain Tribe's poverty.
• Gao Jing urges Shan Tai to act instead of wallowing, pointing out that as a newly advanced Totem Grand Warrior, he should fuse a Beast Soul to prove his worth and status.
• Shan Tai enthusiastically decides to hunt an Earthfury Bear (a Second-Tier Demon Beast) at Blacksoil Hills to obtain its Beast Soul.
• Gao Jing requests to accompany him to see a Demon Beast for the first time; Shan Tai agrees after hesitation.
• The two visit the old shaman Shan Yan, who approves the expedition and instructs Shan Tai to prioritize safety.

2. Character Developments

• Shan Tai: Transitions from despair and passive grief to fierce resolve and hope. His love for Qing Lan motivates him to take concrete action to improve his standing.
• Gao Jing: Acts as a pragmatic adviser, cutting through Shan Tai's self-pity with practical solutions. His curiosity about Demon Beasts shows his continued adjustment to the Great Wilderness world.

3. Significant Themes

• Love as a motivating force: Qing Lan's situation spurs Shan Tai to undertake a dangerous hunt for self-improvement.
• Status and social barriers: The class disparity between Shan Tai and Qing Lan is central to the conflict; becoming a Totem Grand Warrior with a Beast Soul is seen as a means to bridge that gap.
• Tribal survival customs: Shan Tai's five wives are contextualized as a duty for tribal warriors due to high mortality rates, rather than a personal flaw.
• The importance of Beast Souls: Fusing a Beast Soul is presented as a crucial step for a Totem Grand Warrior to gain true power and respect.

4. Character Interactions

• Gao Jing and Shan Tai: Gao Jing initially jokes, then listens, and finally offers strategic advice that reignites Shan Tai's fighting spirit. Their dynamic is that of a pragmatic friend and counselor.
• Shan Tai and Shan Yan: The old shaman gives his blessing and warns Shan Tai not to overexert himself, underlining Shan Tai's importance to the tribe's future. The interaction is brief but shows respect and responsibility.

Chapter Summary: “Hunting Bears”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Before sunrise, Gao Jing and Shan Tai leave Mountain Stronghold for the Blacksoil Hills, traveling on a Taishan Rhino.
• The journey takes two days, allowing Shan Tai to stabilize his strength after recently breaking through a bottleneck.
• Shan Tai carries twenty Black Iron Spears and a massive double-bladed Black Iron battle axe.
• He reveals that Qing Lan gave him the axe, showing how deeply he values their relationship and his determination not to disappoint her.
• The pair travel through the increasingly cold and desolate Great Wilderness, encountering few animals because most have migrated or entered hibernation.
• After camping twice, they reach the Blacksoil Hills, also known as Bear Hills, the territory of the Second-Tier Demon Beast Earthfury Bear.
• Shan Tai leaves the Taishan Rhino behind and approaches the bear den on foot, ordering Gao Jing to remain several kilometers away for safety.
• Shan Tai ambushes the Earthfury Bear as it emerges from its den, throwing Black Iron Spears infused with golden Battle Aura.
• The spears initially injure the bear but fail to penetrate its defensive, dark-yellow innate armor.
• The fight escalates into a brutal close-range battle between Shan Tai and the Earthfury Bear.
• Both combatants suffer serious injuries: Shan Tai damages the bear’s armor and body, while the bear tears apart his Battle Armor and wounds his chest and shoulders.
• At the chapter’s end, the Earthfury Bear uses an invisible binding force to immobilize Shan Tai and traps him in a crushing bear hug.

Character Developments

• Shan Tai: Demonstrates immense strength, courage, and combat experience. He fights methodically but ferociously, using spears to weaken the bear before engaging it with his battle axe. His attachment to Qing Lan is emphasized through his devotion to the weapon she gave him.
• Gao Jing: Acts as an observer rather than a participant, recognizing the enormous gap between his own power and that of Shan Tai and the Earthfury Bear. Although he feels a strong urge to join the battle, he suppresses it rationally, showing growing self-control and awareness of his limitations.
• Qing Lan: Does not appear directly, but her relationship with Shan Tai influences the chapter. The battle axe symbolizes her importance to him and his resolve to honor her faith in him.

Significant Themes

• Love and devotion: Shan Tai’s treasured axe represents Qing Lan’s affection and his commitment to her.
• Courage versus recklessness: Shan Tai willingly faces a powerful Second-Tier Demon Beast, while Gao Jing learns that bravery must be balanced with judgment.
• The brutality of nature: The battle is a savage struggle for survival, with both man and beast relying on overwhelming physical power rather than elaborate techniques.
• Growth and preparation: Shan Tai uses the journey to stabilize his breakthrough, while Gao Jing gains valuable experience by observing a battle far beyond his current level.
• Respect for power: Gao Jing realizes how insignificant he is compared with the strongest warriors and demon beasts, reinforcing the need for continued cultivation.

Character Interactions

• Shan Tai and Gao Jing travel and camp together, establishing a quiet sense of trust and companionship.
• Shan Tai explains the emotional significance of his battle axe to Gao Jing.
• Shan Tai protects Gao Jing by leaving him at a safe distance and instructing him not to interfere.
• Gao Jing obeys Shan Tai’s command but watches the fight closely, emotionally affected by Shan Tai’s desperate struggle.
• The central interaction is the violent duel between Shan Tai and the Earthfury Bear, which shifts from ranged attacks to a close-quarters fight for survival.

Chapter Summary: “Struck It Rich”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shan Tai is ambushed by a Second-Tier Demon Beast, the Earthfury Bear, which uses its innate Divine Ability, Earthbind, to seize and crush him.
• Shan Tai’s battle axe becomes trapped in the bear’s shoulder, leaving him forced to hold back its jaws with his bare hands. His armor begins to fail, his bones crack under the bear’s strength, and he realizes he is close to death.
• At the critical moment, Gao Jing fires his Barrett M107A1 from less than a thousand meters away. The bullet unexpectedly destroys the Earthfury Bear’s eye, causing it to loosen its grip.
• Shan Tai takes advantage of the opening, retrieves his axe, and repeatedly strikes the bear’s neck, killing it.
• Gao Jing arrives, and Shan Tai gives him the honor of drinking the first mouthful of the Demon Beast’s blood in gratitude for saving his life.
• Both men drink some of the blood, which acts as an extremely potent tonic. Since Demon Beast blood loses its power quickly after death, Gao Jing uses the Copper Anchor’s storage space to preserve and collect a large quantity of it.
• Although much of the blood has already been lost through the bear’s wounds, Gao Jing considers the preserved blood an extraordinary reward.

Character Developments

• Shan Tai demonstrates courage and composure while facing certain death. Even when overwhelmed, he continues resisting rather than panicking or surrendering.
• His gratitude toward Gao Jing is shown through his decision to give him the first mouthful of blood, an important hunting honor.
• Shan Tai also gains greater appreciation for Gao Jing’s modern firearm, which he had previously viewed as a mere “toothpick” or toy.
• Gao Jing proves himself cautious and prepared by approaching the area and carrying both the Barrett and rocket launchers in case Shan Tai needed support.
• He acts decisively under pressure, using the rifle not to kill the bear directly but to create the opening Shan Tai needs.
• Gao Jing’s ingenuity with the Copper Anchor allows him to preserve a valuable resource that would otherwise be wasted.

Significant Themes

• Teamwork and mutual trust: Shan Tai’s survival depends on Gao Jing’s timely intervention, while Gao Jing relies on Shan Tai to finish the wounded beast.
• Preparedness and adaptability: Gao Jing’s decision to remain nearby “in case of an accident” becomes decisive, showing the value of planning ahead.
• Luck combined with skill: The successful shot is described as a near-impossible coincidence, but it only matters because Gao Jing was prepared and Shan Tai reacted instantly.
• Respect and reciprocity: Shan Tai honors Gao Jing for saving him, while Gao Jing respects the hunting custom by accepting the offered blood.
• The value of resources: Demon Beasts are presented as treasures whose blood, bodies, and abilities have immense practical value. Gao Jing’s storage artifact turns a dangerous hunt into a major gain.

Character Interactions

• Shan Tai and the Earthfury Bear engage in a brutal physical struggle, with Shan Tai barely preventing the beast from biting his head off.
• Gao Jing intervenes from a distance, saving Shan Tai without directly taking the kill.
• Afterward, Shan Tai openly acknowledges Gao Jing’s contribution and calls him over.
• Shan Tai offers Gao Jing the first drink of the bear’s blood, expressing gratitude through a culturally meaningful gesture.
• The two cooperate to drain and preserve as much of the Earthfury Bear’s blood as possible, turning their shared victory into a valuable harvest.

Chapter Summary: “Advancing in Rank”

Key Plot Points and Events

• After killing the Earthfury Bear, Gao Jing collects roughly a ton of its blood in his storage space.
• Shan Tai gives Gao Jing the bear’s enormous gallbladder as additional compensation, explaining that he only needs the bear’s head to complete his Beast Soul fusion. Gao Jing refuses the bear’s reproductive organ, leaving it for the Mountain Giants.
• Before the group can transport the carcass, Gao Jing suddenly becomes dizzy, overheated, and unconscious.
• While asleep, he dreams again of transforming into the Red Serpent, swimming through magma, absorbing earthfire and flame aura, and growing stronger.
• Gao Jing awakens during the journey home and discovers that his first exposure to Demon Beast blood has dramatically strengthened him. His body has been reinforced, and he has advanced directly from Low-Tier to High Rank.
• Shan Tai warns him not to depend on external aids. Repeated consumption of Demon Beast blood will be less effective, and relying on shortcuts could limit his ultimate potential. Gao Jing accepts the advice while recognizing the blood’s value as a supplementary aid to diligent cultivation.
• Reaching High Rank allows Gao Jing to use Battle Aura, inscribe his first Essence Totem, and learn powerful battle skills. Because of his Fire and Spirit Essence Bloodlines, his Battle Aura will likely possess the fire attribute.
• The group returns to Mountain Stronghold during the season’s first snowfall. The giants celebrate the Earthfury Bear’s corpse, especially its head, which is needed for Shan Tai’s advancement.
• The shaman immediately performs the Beast Soul fusion ritual. Shan Tai emerges as a newly advanced Totem Grand Warrior, surrounded by golden light and the powerful phantom of an Earthfury Bear.

Character Developments

• Gao Jing advances rapidly from Low-Tier to High Rank after absorbing the effects of the Demon Beast blood. His physical strength, vitality, and cultivation all improve dramatically.
• He gains a clearer understanding of the abilities available to High-Rank Totem Warriors, including Battle Aura, Essence Totems, and battle skills.
• Gao Jing remains excited by the benefits of Demon Beast blood but shows maturity by accepting Shan Tai’s warning against relying on external power.
• Shan Tai demonstrates generosity by giving Gao Jing the gallbladder and acknowledging his contribution to the hunt. He also acts as a mentor, cautioning Gao Jing against abandoning hard work for easy advancement.
• Shan Tai successfully fuses with the Earthfury Bear’s Beast Soul and becomes a Totem Grand Warrior, marking a major increase in his own power and status.

Significant Themes

• Power and cultivation: The chapter contrasts rapid advancement through external resources with the slower but more reliable strength gained through personal effort.
• Discipline versus shortcuts: Shan Tai emphasizes that truly powerful warriors must rely on perseverance rather than pills, meat, or blood alone.
• Reward and reciprocity: Shan Tai’s gifts reflect his belief that Gao Jing deserves meaningful compensation for helping secure the Earthfury Bear.
• Transformation and progression: Both Gao Jing and Shan Tai reach new stages of power, reinforcing the story’s focus on evolution and advancement.
• Community and recognition: The Mountain Tribe’s celebration shows the social importance of Shan Tai’s achievement and the collective pride inspired by the successful hunt.

Character Interactions

• Gao Jing and Shan Tai develop a stronger bond based on mutual respect. Shan Tai rewards Gao Jing, while Gao Jing shows concern that the reward might hinder Shan Tai’s Beast Soul fusion.
• Shan Tai takes on a mentor-like role, tempering Gao Jing’s excitement with practical warnings about cultivation.
• The Mountain Tribe welcomes the returning warriors enthusiastically, celebrating the Earthfury Bear and honoring Shan Tai’s accomplishment.
• Gao Jing waits outside the shaman’s hut with Shan Guo’er while Shan Tai undergoes the private Beast Soul fusion ritual.

Chapter Summary: The Essence Totem Choice!

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shan Tai successfully fuses with the Earthfury Bear Beast Soul and advances to the Totem Grand Warrior rank.
• His breakthrough greatly strengthens Mountain Stronghold. The Mountain Tribe once again has a high-rank combatant capable of protecting the tribe, while most Demon Beasts below the Third Rank can no longer threaten them.
• The recent absorption of the Muten Tribe has also stabilized the stronghold and eliminated the risk of internal conflict.
• The tribe holds a massive celebration feast during a heavy snowfall. Warriors and Totem Warriors share Earthfury Bear meat and blood, while ordinary giants receive only broth.
• Gao Jing distributes most of the Earthfury Bear’s blood to the tribe’s warriors, hoping it will improve their strength and help some advance in rank. Several warriors become intoxicated and unconscious, suggesting they may break through after recovering.
• After the feast, Gao Jing tells Shan Yan that he intends to return to Abyss City the next day. Since the tribe already has sufficient salt and grain, and suitable equipment is difficult to obtain because of the giants’ size, Shan Yan leaves the choice of supplies to him.
• Gao Jing then asks Shan Yan about choosing his second totem. As a High-Level Totem Warrior, he is now eligible to inscribe an Essence Totem, which grants access to a powerful Totem Battle Skill.
• Shan Yan presents four fire-based Essence Totems: Blazing Hammer, Scarlet Fist, Flame Blade, and Sparks Scorch the Plains.
• Gao Jing chooses Flame Blade, which creates a fiery longsaber through Battle Aura Infusion. Although it is the most difficult of the four to cultivate, it has the greatest killing power and suits Gao Jing’s preference and skill with bladed weapons.
• Shan Yan begins copying the Flame Blade Totem. The next morning, Gao Jing receives it, bids farewell to Shan Yan and Shan Guo’er, and rides Taishan Rhino back through the snowy wilderness toward the Main World.

Character Developments

• Shan Tai completes a major advancement, becoming a Totem Grand Warrior before the age of thirty. His achievement gives the Mountain Tribe renewed hope of restoring its former glory.
• Gao Jing demonstrates generosity by distributing nearly all the Earthfury Bear blood instead of keeping it for himself. He also begins developing a more specialized combat path by selecting the difficult but powerful Flame Blade technique.
• Shan Yan is shown to be aging and increasingly limited in his ability to use witchcraft, but he remains an important guide and protector of the tribe. His relationship with Gao Jing has become trusting and informal.
• Mountain Tribe warriors benefit directly from the Earthfury Bear’s resources, with several likely to improve or advance after consuming the blood.

Significant Themes

• Renewal and hope: Shan Tai’s breakthrough marks the Mountain Tribe’s recovery after years of relying solely on the aging Shan Yan.
• Collective prosperity over personal gain: Gao Jing’s decision to distribute the bear blood reinforces his commitment to strengthening the entire tribe.
• Specialization and mastery: The chapter emphasizes that a single battle skill cultivated deeply can be more valuable than many skills learned superficially.
• Trust and cooperation: Gao Jing’s close relationship with Shan Yan reflects the growing bond between him and the Mountain Tribe.
• Preparation for the future: The tribe’s improved defenses, food stores, and internal stability position it for long-term revival, while Gao Jing’s return to Abyss City sets up his next stage of development.

Important Character Interactions

• The Mountain Tribe celebrates Shan Tai’s advancement collectively through the feast, songs, and war dances.
• Gao Jing and Shan Tai cooperate in distributing the Earthfury Bear blood among the tribe’s warriors.
• Gao Jing consults Shan Yan about supplies and his Essence Totem selection, showing mutual trust and respect.
• Shan Yan explains the strengths and cultivation difficulties of the available fire-based techniques, while Gao Jing confidently chooses Flame Blade.
• Gao Jing says farewell to Shan Yan and Shan Guo’er before departing for the Main World.

Chapter Summary: “Hospitality”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gao Jing returns to the Main World expecting to spend a romantic evening with Ji Yu, but she has already flown to Hong Kong Island for business. Disappointed, he spends time at home with his cat, Nine Apertures, and speaks with Ji Yu by phone.
• Gao Jing has largely withdrawn from daily business management, leaving the Hong Kong Island company and provincial office to Ji Yu. His main responsibility is preparing purchasing lists.
• He plans to use the Hong Kong Island company to export oak and cedar logs from the Muten Tribe’s forests to the mainland. These woods are less valuable than purple sandalwood but are plentiful and suitable as bulk commodities. His main obstacle is his limited storage space.
• Gao Jing visits a graphic design company to digitize the Flame Blade Beasthide Totem given to him by the Muten Tribe’s old wizard.
• He then goes to Tiger Rose Tattoo Parlor to have the totem tattooed on his right arm. Weizi, the tattoo artist who worked on him previously, designs two versions, and Gao Jing selects one.
• While the stencil is being prepared, Fan Hu introduces Gao Jing to Shawang Suxi, a professional fighter from Siam. Shawang challenges Gao Jing to a match after hearing that Gao Jing once defeated Fan Hu.
• Rather than fight directly, Gao Jing accepts Shawang’s appeal to “hospitality” by shaking his hand. His overwhelming grip strength nearly crushes Shawang’s hand, and a casual palm push sends the fighter stumbling backward into his companions.
• Humiliated, Shawang leaves with his entourage while the people in the tattoo parlor laugh and praise Gao Jing’s strength.

Character Developments

• Gao Jing continues to grow more powerful and confident. His physique has reached an ideal balance, and he intends to make the Flame Blade Totem his primary combat ability.
• He is increasingly comfortable living as a hands-off businessman, trusting Ji Yu to manage operations while he focuses on resource acquisition and cultivation-related matters.
• Gao Jing also demonstrates restraint and control: instead of accepting a public fight, he defeats Shawang effortlessly through a simple handshake and push.
• Ji Yu is shown as both Gao Jing’s romantic partner and a capable business manager. Her increasing responsibilities allow Gao Jing to step back from company affairs.
• Fan Hu remains respectful and eager to maintain his relationship with Gao Jing after being defeated by him previously. He tries to arrange the confrontation with Shawang, though Gao Jing initially fails to understand his signals.
• Weizi displays a blunt, unfriendly attitude toward Gao Jing but remains highly professional. She also proves fearless by defending her customer and confronting the visiting fighter.
• Shawang Suxi is introduced as proud, competitive, and eager to test himself, but his confidence collapses when Gao Jing’s strength proves far beyond his expectations.

Significant Themes

• Strength versus appearance: Gao Jing’s ordinary-looking hands and calm demeanor conceal extraordinary power, while Shawang’s professional-fighter appearance cannot match him.
• Humility and controlled dominance: Gao Jing does not need a formal fight to establish superiority; his effortless response highlights the gap between genuine ability and boastful confidence.
• Hospitality as irony: Shawang invokes Great Xia’s reputation for hospitality to pressure Gao Jing into fighting, but Gao Jing turns the phrase against him through the deceptively polite handshake.
• Growth and expanding ambitions: Gao Jing’s plans now extend beyond personal cultivation to international business, timber trade, and the strategic use of resources from the Muten Tribe.
• Trust and delegation: Gao Jing’s relationship with Ji Yu reflects his willingness to entrust others with important responsibilities while he concentrates on his own unusual path.

Character Interactions

• Gao Jing and Ji Yu share a playful, affectionate phone conversation, with Ji Yu teasingly expressing that she misses Nine Apertures.
• Gao Jing and Fan Hu maintain a relationship based on respect after Gao Jing’s earlier victory over him. Fan Hu treats Gao Jing as an honored expert.
• Weizi interacts with Gao Jing curtly but performs his tattoo design carefully and professionally.
• Weizi confronts Shawang when he disrupts the tattoo session, showing loyalty to her workplace and customer.
• Shawang attempts to provoke Gao Jing through a formal challenge and a culturally pointed appeal to hospitality, but Gao Jing responds politely and decisively, humiliating him without needing a real contest.

Chapter Summary: Fan-Attracting Magic Weapon

• Gao Jing’s reputation grows: After Gao Jing effortlessly defeats the Muay Thai fighter Shawang Suxi, the onlookers finally accept his “Brother Expert” reputation as genuine. Their admiration generates additional Faith Power for him.
• Fan Hu explains the conflict: Fan Hu apologizes for dragging Gao Jing into trouble. He explains that he had built a boxing ring in his tattoo shop and regularly sparred with others. After defeating a challenger and injuring his finger, the disgruntled loser hired Shawang Suxi, a professional fighter from Siam, to restore his pride. When Suxi could not fight Fan Hu, he targeted Gao Jing instead, hoping to humiliate Fan Hu by defeating his former opponent.
• Weizi scolds Fan Hu: Weizi angrily blames her brother for causing unnecessary trouble instead of developing a respectable career. Fan Hu accepts her reprimand and leaves with his friends, while Gao Jing is left awkwardly witnessing the siblings’ emotional exchange. Weizi’s delicate young companion comforts her, revealing their close and affectionate relationship.
• Gao Jing receives the Flame Blade Totem: Once Weizi calms down, she begins tattooing Gao Jing’s right arm. The Flame Blade Totem contains hundreds of intricate interlocking flame patterns and extends from his shoulder to his wrist. Because Gao Jing’s skin is unusually tough, the process lasts more than three hours, leaving Weizi exhausted. Gao Jing is highly satisfied with her craftsmanship and pays her 10,000 yuan despite her offer to do the work for free.
• Nine Apertures attracts another fan: Nine Apertures, Gao Jing’s spirit pet and a “fan-attracting magic weapon,” emerges from his handbag. With Gao Jing’s permission and signal, it allows Weizi’s young companion to hold and photograph it. Its cuteness earns Gao Jing more pure Faith Power.
• Gao Jing’s identity is exposed: The young woman recognizes Nine Apertures from Gao Jing’s online videos and realizes that Gao Jing is actually “High Mountain, High God,” the wealthy and mysterious internet celebrity associated with the famous kitten. She excitedly explains his huge following, lavish online gifts, and rumored immense wealth. Weizi is embarrassed because she had briefly considered offering to buy Nine Apertures, unaware that Gao Jing was the owner.
• Gao Jing’s public image: Gao Jing modestly denies being richer than Wang Baoshi and claims to come from an ordinary family, but neither woman believes him. The young woman takes photos with Nine Apertures, while Weizi treats Gao Jing with newfound admiration.
• Themes: The chapter emphasizes Gao Jing’s expanding fame and Faith Power, the influence of online celebrity culture, the contrast between ordinary appearances and hidden power or wealth, and the importance of loyalty and personal responsibility. It also provides comic relief through Fan Hu’s recklessness, Weizi’s scolding, the young woman’s enthusiastic fangirling, and Gao Jing’s discomfort with attention.

Chapter Summary: Blades Aflame

Key Plot Points and Events

• After Gao Jing finishes paying at Tiger Rose Tattoo Parlor, Fan Hu approaches him. The parlor is nearly empty, and Fan Hu’s friends have already left.
• Gao Jing asks Fan Hu for help finding someone who can teach him practical saber techniques. Although Gao Jing has acquired the Flame Blade Totem, the Totem Primer only teaches Battle Aura cultivation and Totem activation—not actual weapon techniques.
• The chapter explains the three major categories of Great Wilderness battle skills:

Body Tempering battle skills

Weapon battle skills

Totem Battle Skills

• Fan Hu recommends an elderly master in Tangnan County who possesses a powerful inherited saber technique, though the man may not accept students. Fan Hu promises to investigate.
• Gao Jing declines Fan Hu’s invitation to go to a nightclub, retrieves Nine Apertures, says goodbye to Weizi, and returns home.
• In his basement, Gao Jing activates the newly tattooed Flame Blade Essence Totem using fire-attributed Battle Aura produced from his Scarlet Python Rune.
• The tattoo transforms into a blazing, materialized Flame Longsaber extending from his arm. Gao Jing tests it against a Mountain-Cleaving Saber, cutting the weapon in half and partially melting the broken edge.
• He experiments with the Flame Blade’s swings, discovering that it greatly increases his attack power, though maintaining it rapidly consumes Battle Aura.
• After the Flame Blade dissipates, Gao Jing conceals the tattoo beneath his skin and resumes cultivating Battle Aura.

Character Development

• Gao Jing demonstrates foresight and discipline. Rather than relying solely on the powerful Flame Blade, he recognizes the importance of mastering practical saber techniques to use it effectively.
• His success in activating the Flame Blade fills him with excitement and confidence, but he avoids becoming complacent. He views his advancement to High Rank and acquisition of a Totem Battle Skill as only the beginning of his path.
• Gao Jing’s willingness to endure solitude and continue cultivating emphasizes his growing determination to pursue transcendence.
• Fan Hu continues to treat Gao Jing like a close brother, enthusiastically offering assistance and inviting him out. His knowledge of the martial arts world makes him a useful connection.

Significant Themes

• Preparation and balance: True strength requires combining Body Tempering, weapon techniques, and Totem Battle Skills rather than relying on one source of power.
• Persistence and discipline: Gao Jing’s progress depends on long-term cultivation, solitude, and the willingness to endure hardship.
• Power and potential: The Flame Blade is already formidable at its beginner level, suggesting much greater strength as Gao Jing’s mastery develops.
• Ambition without complacency: Gao Jing celebrates his achievement but immediately looks toward higher realms and continued growth.
• Bridging worlds: He seeks practical martial knowledge in the Main World to maximize the supernatural abilities gained in the Great Wilderness.

Character Interactions

• Gao Jing and Fan Hu have a friendly, increasingly brotherly relationship. Gao Jing asks for Fan Hu’s help, and Fan Hu responds eagerly and promises to locate the saber master.
• Fan Hu attempts to persuade Gao Jing to join him at a nightclub, but Gao Jing declines, prioritizing cultivation.
• Gao Jing briefly says farewell to Weizi before leaving the tattoo parlor.

Chapter Summary: “Seeking Instruction in Person”

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• The morning after learning about a renowned saber practitioner, Gao Jing drives to Tiger Rose Tattoo Parlor to pick up Fan Hu and travel to Tangnan County.
• Fan Hu’s wide social network helps him contact Xiang Haibo, the nephew of the elderly saber master.
• Xiang Haibo, a wealthy and influential local hotel owner, warmly welcomes Gao Jing and Fan Hu. He insists on hosting an extravagant lunch, where Gao Jing outdrinks several companions and earns Xiang Haibo’s admiration.
• After lunch, Xiang Haibo takes them to a rural home where his elder cousin, Xiang Anmin, lives.
• Xiang Anmin is the inheritor of a famous Ghost-Head Broadsaber and saber techniques passed down from his grandfather, a martial artist and veteran who fought the Japanese during wartime.
• Despite repeated requests, Xiang Anmin refuses to acknowledge his skills or agree to teach Gao Jing.
• Gao Jing first offers two hundred thousand yuan, then raises the offer to five hundred thousand.
• Xiang Anmin is deeply offended, but his wife angrily reveals that their family urgently needs money to help their son purchase a school-district home.
• Overwhelmed by his wife’s scolding and financial pressure, Xiang Anmin reluctantly agrees to teach Gao Jing.
• Gao Jing immediately produces the prepared cash, placing five bundles on the table and demonstrating that his offer is genuine.

2. Character Developments

• Gao Jing is shown to be persistent, respectful, financially generous, and highly capable of holding his liquor. His determination to learn the saber leads him to use money when ordinary persuasion fails, though he feels guilty about pressuring Xiang Anmin.
• Fan Hu proves the usefulness of his broad network of acquaintances. His connections secure Gao Jing an introduction to Xiang Anmin.
• Xiang Haibo is portrayed as boisterous, sociable, generous, and eager to help his relatives and friends. His enthusiastic hospitality and admiration for Gao Jing establish a friendly relationship between them.
• Xiang Anmin is stern, proud, and secretive about his inherited saber skills. He initially refuses to teach anyone and reacts strongly to Gao Jing’s monetary offer, viewing it as an insult to his martial legacy. Ultimately, family financial concerns force him to compromise.
• Xiang Anmin’s wife is outspoken, practical, and fiercely concerned about the family’s future. Her aggressive reprimand exposes the economic problem behind Anmin’s refusal and decisively changes the situation.
• Xiang Haibo’s young nephew, Xiao Hao, provides comic relief through his fear of Haibo’s prickly beard and immediate delight at receiving money.

3. Significant Themes

• Tradition versus material necessity: Xiang Anmin regards his saber skills as part of a proud family legacy, while his wife emphasizes the family’s immediate financial needs.
• The practical power of money: Gao Jing’s offers fail as a matter of honor but succeed once the family’s economic difficulties are brought into the open.
• Connections and social networks: Fan Hu’s friendships and Xiang Haibo’s family ties make it possible for Gao Jing to meet a master who otherwise avoids outsiders.
• Honor and pride: Xiang Anmin’s anger reflects his belief that martial arts should not simply be bought, while Gao Jing treats payment as sincere compensation for valuable instruction.
• Family obligations: Although Xiang Anmin wants to protect his dignity and preserve his skills, his family responsibilities ultimately influence his decision.
• Humor amid tension: The drinking contest, the child’s reaction to Haibo, and the grandmother’s explosive scolding keep the chapter light despite the conflict over money and tradition.

4. Character Interactions

• Fan Hu acts as Gao Jing’s mediator, arranging contact with Xiang Haibo.
• Xiang Haibo welcomes Gao Jing and Fan Hu with exaggerated warmth, repeatedly addressing them as brothers and hosting them at a long drinking feast.
• Haibo playfully torments his young nephew by kissing him with his beard, prompting the child to cry before money quickly comforts him.
• Gao Jing respectfully presents gifts to Xiang Anmin’s family and asks to study under him.
• Xiang Anmin repeatedly rejects Gao Jing, denying that he knows saber techniques and refusing to take disciples.
• Gao Jing’s escalating offers create an awkward confrontation, as Anmin interprets the money as an insult.
• Anmin’s wife openly challenges him, criticizing his stubbornness and reminding him of the family’s financial needs. Her intervention forces him to accept Gao Jing as a student.
• The chapter ends with Gao Jing placing the full five hundred thousand yuan in cash before the family, confirming his seriousness and securing Xiang Anmin’s reluctant instruction.