Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Na'er, Tang Wulin's childhood friend and first love, visits him at Shrek Academy.
• She has been studying at Shrek's Inner Court and has awakened her Martial Soul.
• Tang Wulin is surprised and delighted to see her after several years of separation.

Character Developments

• Na'er has grown into a beautiful young lady, causing a stir among the students with her appearance.
• Tang Wulin is happy to reunite with Na'er and shows affection towards her.
• Gu Yue introduces Na'er as Tang Wulin's first girlfriend to Xu Xiaoyan, causing Na'er to blush and protest.
• Wu Siduo is annoyed by their public display of affection in the classroom.

Significant Themes

• Reunion and the passage of time.
• First love and the memories it holds.
• The impact of beauty and attractiveness on others.

Character Interactions

• Tang Wulin and Na'er reunite, expressing their happiness and affection towards each other.
• Gu Yue introduces Na'er to Xu Xiaoyan and teases her about being Tang Wulin's first love.
• Wu Siduo is irritated by Tang Wulin and Na'er's public display of affection, highlighting her growing feelings for Tang Wulin.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Tang Wulin and Na'er reunite, and he promises to take her home to find her parents' graves.
• Tang Wulin asks Na'er to be his future bride, and she agrees.
• Na'er returns to the Inner Court and meets her teacher, Yun Ming, and his wife, Ya Li, who learn about her relationship with Tang Wulin.

Character Developments

• Na'er: She has grown up and is more confident and independent. She is still deeply in love with Tang Wulin.
• Tang Wulin: He is more mature and responsible. He acknowledges his feelings for Na'er and is willing to commit to her.

Significant Themes

• Love and commitment: Tang Wulin and Na'er's relationship explores the themes of love, commitment, and the willingness to face challenges together.
• Family and home: The concept of home and family is revisited as Tang Wulin and Na'er discuss visiting their parents' graves.

Character Interactions

• Tang Wulin and Na'er: Their interactions are filled with affection and love. They spend the day together, reconnecting and strengthening their bond.
• Na'er and her teacher, Yun Ming, and his wife, Ya Li: They express their love and concern for Na'er, showing their willingness to support her happiness.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Tang Wulin's life remains peaceful, focusing on cultivation and spending time with his girlfriends.
• He reaches Rank 44 and meets Yun Ming, the Sea God Pavilion master, who remembers him.
• Shen Yi announces the final exam: students must travel to Mingdu, visit at least ten cities, defeat an opponent five ranks higher, and return within 15 days without external assistance or devices. Academy teachers will secretly follow and grade students.

Character Developments

• Tang Wulin maintains his calm and confident demeanor, showing no concern for the exam's challenges.
• Ye Xinglan confesses her feelings to Tang Wulin, making their relationship official.
• Shen Yi demonstrates her serious and responsible side as she explains the exam's rules.

Significant Themes

• Growth and Challenges: The final exam forces students to face real-world challenges, testing their adaptability and resourcefulness.
• Relationships: Tang Wulin's romantic relationships continue to develop, with Ye Xinglan confessing her feelings.
• Trust and Independence: Students must trust in their own abilities and act independently during the exam.

Character Interactions

• Tang Wulin, Gu Yue, and Xu Xiaoyan discuss the exam's implications and their plans.
• Tang Wulin reassures Gu Yue and Xu Xiaoyan that they can handle the exam together, despite the rule against traveling with others.

Chapter Summary: “Examination, But Starting with One Hundred Million”

Key Plot Points and Events

• After completing their academy business, Tang Wulin prepares to leave with Gu Yue, Xu Xiaoyan, and Ye Xinglan. He tells them they will meet again in fifteen days and arranges their travel plans.
• Before they depart, Tang Wulin brings the three girls to meet Leng Yaozhu, whom he asks for money to cover their expenses.
• Leng Yaozhu provides four black-gold bank cards for the group—one for each girl and one for Tang Wulin. Each card contains 100 million Federation Credits, making her gift extraordinarily generous.
• Tang Wulin affectionately kisses Leng Yaozhu and calls her “Wife Yao Zhu,” causing her to become deeply embarrassed. She privately calls him “Husband” in return before flying away to the Heavenly Spirit Tower.
• The girls later inspect their cards and realize how much money they have received. Gu Yue and Ye Xinglan calculate that each card contains 100 million credits, leaving them stunned.
• Wu Zhangkong secretly follows the group as their protector. He is shocked to discover that Leng Yaozhu is a powerful woman capable of flight, implying that she is at least a Titled Douluo. He also begins viewing Tang Wulin as a surprisingly secretive and flirtatious “young playboy.”

Character Developments

• Tang Wulin: Demonstrates his resourcefulness, confidence, and ability to rely on his relationships. He deliberately avoids revealing his System Space and instead asks Leng Yaozhu for financial assistance. His affectionate behavior toward her also reveals his comfort with and closeness to his romantic partners.
• Leng Yaozhu: Acts as a generous and indulgent “big sister” toward Gu Yue, Xu Xiaoyan, and Ye Xinglan, while showing particular affection for Tang Wulin. Although initially embarrassed and playfully annoyed, she willingly supports him and accepts his intimate promise to thank her later.
• Gu Yue: Understands the private meaning behind Tang Wulin’s exchange with Leng Yaozhu through her powerful spiritual perception. She becomes jealous because Tang Wulin has not called her his wife.
• Xu Xiaoyan and Ye Xinglan: Are grateful for Leng Yaozhu’s generosity but become astonished when they discover the enormous sums in their cards. Ye Xinglan is also curious about Tang Wulin’s private conversation with Leng Yaozhu.
• Wu Zhangkong: Gains a new and unexpected impression of Tang Wulin. Rather than seeing only his capable student, he now recognizes him as someone with hidden connections, a wealthy and powerful romantic partner, and many concealed advantages.

Significant Themes

• Wealth and generosity: The chapter humorously exaggerates Leng Yaozhu’s wealth, with 400 million credits distributed casually among the group. Her financial support symbolizes both her status and her affection.
• Romantic intimacy and jealousy: Tang Wulin’s teasing affection toward Leng Yaozhu creates embarrassment and playful jealousy among the other girls, highlighting the complicated romantic dynamics surrounding him.
• Hidden strength and secrets: Leng Yaozhu’s ability to fly and Tang Wulin’s concealed resources emphasize that both characters possess greater power and influence than others realize.
• Humor through contrast: The title and events play on the absurdity of beginning an examination journey with 100 million credits each, while Wu Zhangkong’s stunned reaction provides an outsider’s comedic perspective.

Important Character Interactions

• Tang Wulin reassures the three girls about their travel plans and asks them to wait while he handles a private matter.
• Leng Yaozhu gives the girls their cards as a big sister, while Tang Wulin receives his card in a more intimate exchange.
• Tang Wulin kisses Leng Yaozhu and calls her his wife, prompting her to blush and secretly answer that he is her husband.
• Ye Xinglan questions Tang Wulin about what he said to Leng Yaozhu, but he keeps it secret.
• Gu Yue silently becomes jealous after realizing the romantic implication of their exchange.
• Xu Xiaoyan, Gu Yue, and Ye Xinglan react with disbelief when they discover that each card contains 100 million Federation Credits.
• Wu Zhangkong observes the entire situation from a distance and concludes that Tang Wulin has a powerful, wealthy partner and far more hidden secrets than expected.

Chapter Summary: “Attack? An Ordinary Hero”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Tang Wulin uses his wealth to avoid the humiliating circumstances of the original novel and boards a soul train with Gu Yue, Xu Xiaoyan, and Ye Xinglan.
• Their first destination is Heaven Dou City, chosen because it is a major ancient city, a convenient transportation hub, and a place where Tang Wulin may reconnect with old acquaintances, including a former companion who became a Divine Craftsman and a powerful female mecha master from the Body Sect.
• During the journey, several Evil Soul Masters launch a train attack and take passengers hostage.
• Tang Wulin immediately recognizes the threat and secretly instructs the three girls not to act. They realize he is prioritizing the safety of the ordinary passengers.
• The attackers mistakenly identify Gu Yue, Xu Xiaoyan, and Ye Xinglan as helpless civilians and take them hostage. In reality, the three are among the strongest people on the train.
• Tang Wulin waits until the conductor and security captain exchange the hostages, then defeats the criminals instantly. The attackers are so weak that they pose little real danger.
• Because of Tang Wulin’s intervention, no passengers are killed, and Mo Lan—the train conductor who died in the original timeline—survives.
• Tang Wulin avoids the attention of the passengers who praise him as a hero and escapes with the three girls. They later laugh at how absurdly incompetent the criminals were.

Character Development

• Tang Wulin: Demonstrates confidence, foresight, overwhelming strength, and tactical restraint. Rather than rushing into battle, he waits for the safest moment to act and prevents unnecessary casualties. Despite behaving heroically, he rejects the label of “hero” and prefers to remain anonymous.
• Gu Yue, Xu Xiaoyan, and Ye Xinglan: Show trust in Tang Wulin by following his instructions without hesitation. Their strength and composure contrast humorously with the criminals’ mistaken belief that they are defenseless civilians.
• Mo Lan and the security captain: Their courage and willingness to risk themselves for the passengers are emphasized. Tang Wulin considers them the true heroes because they protect others despite lacking his overwhelming power.
• The criminals: Are portrayed as incompetent and comically weak, especially because none possess Soul Power and they fail to recognize the abilities of their hostages.

Significant Themes

• Heroism versus recognition: The chapter questions who deserves to be called a hero. Tang Wulin saves everyone but refuses praise, while Mo Lan and the security captain embody ordinary courage and self-sacrifice.
• Changing fate: Tang Wulin’s presence alters the original storyline, saving Mo Lan and preventing the train attack from becoming a tragedy.
• Strength hidden beneath appearances: The criminals judge the three girls by their appearance and assume they are powerless, leading to their downfall.
• Pragmatism and responsibility: Tang Wulin combines caution with decisive action, choosing the moment that best protects innocent people rather than seeking glory.
• Comedy through contrast: The supposedly terrifying attack becomes almost absurd because the criminals are weak and accidentally select several powerful Soul Masters as hostages.

Character Interactions

• Tang Wulin privately coordinates with the three girls and asks them to remain still during the attack.
• Ye Xinglan recognizes that his concern is not fear for himself but worry about the surrounding passengers.
• The three girls are taken hostage but remain calm because they know they can protect themselves.
• Tang Wulin works indirectly with Mo Lan and the security captain, allowing them to complete the hostage exchange before eliminating the attackers.
• Afterward, the group jokes about being selected as the “weakest” hostages and escapes before the passengers can keep them celebrating as heroes.
• The chapter ends with a humorous achievement: “Worst Criminals in History.”

Chapter Summary: “Reunited with Zhen Hua”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Tang Wulin arrives alone at the Heaven Dou City Blacksmith Association, the headquarters of the continent’s blacksmithing world.
• He learns that President Zhen Hua—the continent’s only Ninth-Level and Divine Craftsman—is about to give a public lecture.
• While other blacksmiths rush to secure places near the front, Tang Wulin calmly uses Teleportation to obtain an ideal position.
• Zhen Hua enters to enthusiastic cheers and demonstrates his enormous prestige among the blacksmiths.
• During his lecture, Zhen Hua explains a Fusion Forging technique based on selecting compatible “medium” metals to make different metals fuse more easily and improve success rates.
• Tang Wulin understands the technique easily because of his own extraordinary forging talent and previous experience.
• Zhen Hua senses something familiar about Tang Wulin but cannot remember him, apparently because Tang Wulin’s identity and appearance have changed.
• Zhen Hua offers Tang Wulin encouragement as a promising young blacksmith. Tang Wulin then asks to try the technique himself, intending to surprise Zhen Hua and reveal the gap between his apparent age and actual ability.

Character Developments

• Tang Wulin: Displays confidence, composure, and playful anticipation. He remains emotionally proud of Zhen Hua’s success but also recognizes that his own forging talent has advanced far beyond what most people realize. His decision to demonstrate the technique suggests he is preparing to reveal his capabilities dramatically.
• Zhen Hua: Is established as the supreme figure of the forging world, having achieved Divine Craftsman status and made true Four-Word Battle Armor possible. Despite his immense reputation, he is humble and willing to teach other blacksmiths. He feels an unexplained connection to Tang Wulin but dismisses it as imagination.
• The blacksmiths: Their enthusiastic reaction to Zhen Hua emphasizes his legendary status and the reverence he commands within the profession.

Significant Themes

• Recognition and identity: Tang Wulin is reunited with someone important from his past, but Zhen Hua no longer recognizes him, highlighting Tang Wulin’s altered identity and the emotional distance created by time and transformation.
• Mastery and advancement: Zhen Hua represents the pinnacle of established forging achievement, while Tang Wulin quietly embodies the next generation’s potentially even greater talent.
• Pride in others’ achievements: Tang Wulin feels genuine happiness and pride seeing his former “little brother” become the foremost blacksmith on the continent.
• The contrast between appearance and ability: Tang Wulin appears to be a young, ordinary Fifth-Level Blacksmith, yet he possesses knowledge and skill far beyond what others expect.
• Mentorship and knowledge-sharing: Zhen Hua’s lecture shows the importance of passing technical knowledge to future blacksmiths, even though Tang Wulin has already surpassed the lesson’s practical level.

Character Interactions

• Tang Wulin observes Zhen Hua with affection and pride, remembering their former relationship.
• Zhen Hua addresses Tang Wulin as a promising young blacksmith and encourages him to continue working hard.
• Tang Wulin responds respectfully but challenges expectations by asking to personally demonstrate the Fusion Forging technique.
• The chapter ends with an impending reveal: Tang Wulin is poised to shock Zhen Hua and the assembled blacksmiths with his true abilities.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Tang Wulin surprises the Heaven Dou City Blacksmith Association by asking to attempt Fusion Forging, a technique normally requiring at least a Sixth-Level Blacksmith.
• Because he lacks his own forging hammers during Shrek Academy’s final exam, he borrows President Zhen Hua’s personal pair of Spirit-Refined Cloud Gold hammers.
• Tang Wulin effortlessly fuses six rare metals, proving that he is already a Sixth-Level Blacksmith. The gathered blacksmiths are stunned by his ability and age.
• Zhen Hua takes Tang Wulin to his office to learn more about him. Tang reveals that he is only fourteen years old, has not been assessed since three years earlier, and was introduced to Zhen Hua through Mu Chen.
• Recognizing Tang Wulin’s extraordinary talent, Zhen Hua gives him:
  • His Cloud Gold forging hammers
  • An official Sixth-Level Blacksmith badge
  • Assistance finding an opponent for Tang’s final exam challenge
• Tang casually states that he can handle anyone below Level 69, prompting Zhen Hua’s disbelief.
• Wu Zhangkong arrives at the association and overhears blacksmiths discussing a young Sixth-Level Blacksmith with four black Soul Rings. He realizes they are talking about Tang Wulin and is shocked by how much his student has advanced.
• Tang introduces Wu Zhangkong to Zhen Hua, revealing that Wu is serving as his protector during the final exam.
• Zhen Hua arranges Tang’s challenge against a Level 69 Soul Emperor, far stronger than Wu Zhangkong expected.

Character Developments

• Tang Wulin: Demonstrates overwhelming talent in both forging and cultivation. His casual attitude toward achieving Sixth-Level status highlights how far beyond ordinary standards he has become. He also displays confidence by accepting a Level 69 opponent.
• Zhen Hua: Moves from skepticism to admiration and then deep personal interest in Tang Wulin. He recognizes Tang as a forging genius who may surpass even himself and treats him warmly as a younger relative.
• Wu Zhangkong: Realizes that Tang Wulin’s abilities exceed his previous understanding. He feels pride and amazement while acknowledging that Tang still possesses many hidden talents and secrets.
• The Blacksmiths: Their initial disbelief turns into awe after witnessing Tang’s successful Fusion Forging.
• Mu Chen: Though absent, his relationship with Tang and his pride in his daughter’s future are indirectly emphasized through Zhen Hua’s memories.

Significant Themes

• Extraordinary talent and hidden potential: Tang’s age, four black Soul Rings, and Sixth-Level forging ability establish him as an almost unprecedented prodigy.
• Humility versus overwhelming power: Tang treats remarkable achievements as ordinary, creating humorous contrasts with the shock of those around him.
• Recognition of greatness: Both Zhen Hua and Wu Zhangkong realize that Tang Wulin may eventually surpass the greatest figures of their generation.
• Mentorship and connections: Tang benefits from the support of Mu Chen, Zhen Hua, and Wu Zhangkong, showing how important respected mentors are to his growth.
• Comedy through exaggeration: Zhen Hua jokingly regrets never having a daughter, imagining Tang Wulin as an ideal son-in-law, while Tang’s calm claim that he can defeat anyone below Level 69 further heightens the humor.

Character Interactions

• Tang and Zhen Hua develop an immediate, affectionate mentor-like relationship. Zhen Hua offers Tang his treasured hammers and formally recognizes him as a Sixth-Level Blacksmith.
• Zhen Hua and Tang discuss Mu Chen, establishing Tang’s connection to the forging world’s elite.
• Wu Zhangkong and Tang reunite at the association, with Wu serving as Tang’s protector despite Tang’s rapidly growing strength.
• Zhen Hua politely welcomes Wu Zhangkong and entrusts Tang’s examination to both him and the association.
• The chapter ends with Wu Zhangkong confronting the reality that Tang’s opponent is a Level 69 Soul Emperor, making the final exam challenge far more serious than he expected.

Chapter Summary: “Leng Yaozhu’s Important Mission”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Tang Wulin completes the first city’s challenge by defeating a rank-69 Soul Emperor, Shi Zhenxiang, without even using a soul skill. His victory shocks both Wu Zhangkong and Zhen Hua, who realize how dramatically his strength has grown.
• Wu Zhangkong informs Tang Wulin that the examination format has changed from individual battles to team battles. He leaves to locate the other students, while Tang Wulin remains at the Blacksmith Association.
• Zhen Hua takes Tang Wulin to eat at his private cafeteria, where the cook is revealed to be Mu Ye, the Body Sect’s master and a powerful Four-Word Battle Armor and Red Mecha Master.
• Through his sign-in ability, Tang Wulin obtains the “Mecha God Talent,” granting him extraordinary potential in mecha construction. He is delighted by the possibility of eventually creating Red Mechas.
• Mu Ye senses the overwhelming strength of Tang Wulin’s bloodline and becomes eager to recruit him as a disciple. However, Zhen Hua explains that Tang Wulin is already a student of Shrek Academy, causing Mu Ye to abandon the idea.
• Tang Wulin reunites with Gu Yue, Xu Xiaoyan, and Ye Xinglan at the Spirit Pagoda. Leng Yaozhu had arranged suitable opponents for the three girls, allowing them to complete their challenges successfully.
• Xie Xie is the only one who has not yet completed his challenge because he arrived late while trying to earn money. Tang Wulin encourages him to stop hesitating and find an opponent.
• Over the following days, the group’s final examinations continue smoothly, with the students completing their challenges one by one.
• Meanwhile, Leng Yaozhu travels to the Dou Ling Empire and meets Tang Wulin’s parents, Tang Ziran and Lang Yue. After confirming their identities, she joyfully introduces herself as Tang Wulin’s girlfriend and says she has come to take them home.

Character Developments

• Tang Wulin: Demonstrates immense physical and combat strength by defeating a near-Soul Sage without using soul skills. He also gains exceptional talent in mecha construction, expanding his abilities beyond forging and Soul Master cultivation. His easygoing treatment of Xie Xie shows his continued role as an older-brother figure.
• Wu Zhangkong: Is deeply impressed by Tang Wulin’s growth and recognizes how much he has changed since they first met. Though outwardly composed, he is internally astonished by Wulin’s achievements.
• Zhen Hua: Becomes even more convinced that Tang Wulin is an extraordinary talent in both forging and Soul Master cultivation. He takes pride in Wulin and mischievously introduces him to Mu Ye.
• Mu Ye: Initially becomes excited by Tang Wulin’s extraordinary bloodline and considers recruiting him into the Body Sect. Once he learns Tang Wulin belongs to Shrek Academy, he quickly gives up the idea, though he privately reassures himself that his own disciple remains exceptional.
• Xie Xie: Shows some insecurity and frustration at falling behind the others, but responds obediently when Tang Wulin encourages him. His development is also hinted at through the revelation that he has acquired a girlfriend.
• Leng Yaozhu: Acts carefully and nervously while carrying out Tang Wulin’s request. Despite her status and power, she becomes anxious about meeting his parents, revealing a more vulnerable and affectionate side.
• Tang Wulin’s parents: Are confused and initially worried when Leng Yaozhu summons them, but are left stunned and presumably delighted when she identifies herself as their son’s girlfriend.

Significant Themes

• Growth and transformation: The chapter emphasizes how far Tang Wulin has progressed in only five years, from a weak and hopeful child into a combatant capable of defeating powerful Soul Masters.
• Exceptional talent and potential: Tang Wulin’s bloodline, combat ability, forging skills, and newly acquired mecha talent establish him as an unusually gifted individual whose future seems limitless.
• Loyalty to Shrek Academy: Mu Ye’s inability to recruit Tang Wulin highlights Shrek’s influence and the institution’s role in gathering and shaping the continent’s greatest talents.
• Mentorship and recognition: Several older figures—Wu Zhangkong, Zhen Hua, and Mu Ye—acknowledge Tang Wulin’s abilities, while Zhen Hua and Leng Yaozhu actively support his personal and professional future.
• Family and relationships: The ending shifts from combat and cultivation to romance and family, humorously focusing on Leng Yaozhu’s nervous first meeting with Tang Wulin’s parents.

Important Character Interactions

• Tang Wulin and Wu Zhangkong: Wu Zhangkong praises Wulin’s successful challenge and organizes the team’s next stage of examinations.
• Tang Wulin and Zhen Hua: Zhen Hua treats him warmly, takes him to eat, and proudly displays him to Mu Ye as an extraordinary young talent.
• Tang Wulin and Mu Ye: Mu Ye questions him about his cultivation, master, and Martial Soul after sensing his powerful bloodline, but learns that Wulin is already committed to Shrek Academy.
• Tang Wulin and Xie Xie: Tang Wulin notices Xie Xie’s hesitation and encourages him to complete his own challenge.
• Leng Yaozhu and Tang Wulin’s parents: Leng Yaozhu respectfully confirms their identities before excitedly revealing that she is their son’s girlfriend and has come to bring them home, leaving both parents speechless.

Chapter Summary: “Return, Dad and Mom!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• After completing their final exams—including defeating Mingdu and the Sun Moon Imperial Soul Guidance Academy—Tang Wulin and his companions return to campus.
• Tang Wulin immediately plans to reunite with his parents, who have been living under the Spirit Pagoda’s protection.
• Leng Yaozhu surprises him by meeting him at the Soul Guidance station and carrying him to the villa where his parents are staying. Her intimate behavior provokes Gu Yue’s jealousy and amuses the rest of the group.
• At the villa, Tang Wulin finally reunites with Tang Ziran and Lang Yue after five years apart. The reunion is emotional, with Wulin rushing to embrace them and the family spending a long time talking.
• His parents worry that he may have suffered while living on his own, but Wulin assures them that his teachers and friends supported him and that his blacksmithing allowed him to live comfortably.
• Tang Wulin reveals that he has advanced from a Fifth-Level Blacksmith to a Sixth-Level Blacksmith, astonishing and delighting his father.
• He then displays his four black Soul Rings and powerful Blue Silver Emperor Martial Soul, revealing that his strength far exceeds what his parents expected. His parents are stunned and immensely proud.
• Tang Ziran and Lang Yue openly approve of Leng Yaozhu as a future daughter-in-law, urging Wulin to treat her well. Leng Yaozhu becomes embarrassed but deeply pleased by their acceptance.
• The chapter ends with a humorous “In-Laws’ Approval” reward, lightly mocking the system’s oddly specific numerical bonus and Tang Wulin’s need to “spread the love evenly” among his many romantic interests.

Character Developments

• Tang Wulin: Shows deep affection and longing for his parents after years apart. He has matured into a highly accomplished young man, possessing elite combat strength and reaching Sixth-Level Blacksmith status at only fourteen. Despite his confidence, he remains emotionally vulnerable and eager for his parents’ approval.
• Leng Yaozhu: Demonstrates her affection for Wulin through playful intimacy and openly escorts him to his parents. She is nervous about their opinion of her but becomes delighted and flustered when they accept her as family.
• Tang Ziran and Lang Yue: Reveal intense love and concern for Wulin. They are proud of his achievements and warmly embrace Leng Yaozhu, though Tang Ziran privately feels regret that Wulin is not their biological son.
• Gu Yue: Becomes visibly jealous when Leng Yaozhu takes Wulin away, revealing her possessive feelings toward him.
• Xu Xiaoyan and Ye Xinglan: Comfort Gu Yue and react humorously to the romantic situation.
• Wu Zhangkong and Xie Xie: Are astonished by Wulin’s relationship with a Titled Douluo-level woman. Xie Xie is amused but feels less envious because he now has a girlfriend of his own.

Significant Themes

• Family reunion and belonging: The chapter centers on Wulin’s emotional return to his parents and his desire to ensure that they live happy, secure lives.
• Parental pride and acceptance: Tang Wulin’s achievements reassure his parents that he has thrived despite their separation. Their approval of Leng Yaozhu further strengthens the sense of family.
• Growth and achievement: Wulin’s progress in blacksmithing and cultivation demonstrates how far he has advanced during the five-year separation.
• Romantic rivalry and affection: Gu Yue’s jealousy and Leng Yaozhu’s confident intimacy highlight the complicated romantic relationships surrounding Wulin.
• Hidden sorrow and identity: Tang Ziran’s private regret that Wulin is not their biological son introduces an undercurrent of sadness beneath the joyful reunion.

Character Interactions

• Leng Yaozhu playfully carries Wulin away, while Gu Yue reacts with anger and jealousy.
• Xu Xiaoyan comforts Gu Yue, and Ye Xinglan observes the situation with amusement.
• Wulin and Leng Yaozhu discuss his parents and the Spirit Pagoda before entering the villa.
• Wulin shares an emotional reunion with Tang Ziran and Lang Yue, assuring them that he has lived well.
• He surprises his father by presenting his Sixth-Level Blacksmith badge and impresses both parents by displaying his powerful Soul Rings.
• Tang Ziran and Lang Yue praise Leng Yaozhu and encourage Wulin to cherish her, giving her the parental approval she secretly desires.

Chapter Summary: “His Son Really Had Grown Up”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Tang Wulin’s parents, Tang Ziran and Lang Yue, warmly accept Leng Yaozhu and praise her as an ideal future daughter-in-law. Their approval makes Yaozhu extremely shy, especially when Wulin affectionately teases and kisses her in front of them.
• Embarrassed by Wulin’s public displays of affection, Leng Yaozhu retreats to her room.
• Lang Yue asks about Na’er, whom the family has not seen for years. Wulin reveals that Na’er is studying at Shrek Academy, has awakened an extraordinary martial soul, become a four-ring Soul Ancestor, and is already a One-Word Battle Armor Master under the tutelage of an Ultimate Douluo.
• Wulin then shocks his parents by revealing that Na’er is his girlfriend. He also explains that Na’er’s “older sister,” Gu Yue, is another girl he is dating.
• He continues by mentioning Xu Xiaoyan, Ye Xinglan, and Yuanen Yehui, leaving his parents astonished at how many talented girls are romantically involved with him. Despite their disbelief, they advise him to treat all of them sincerely and never hurt or deceive them.
• Later, Wulin and Yaozhu discuss the Spirit Pagoda and the Qiangu Clan’s abduction of his parents. They had been forced to develop potions designed to suppress powerful Soul Beasts.
• Yaozhu condemns the Qiangu Clan’s hypocrisy and realizes that such potions could be used against extremely powerful Soul Beasts. Wulin becomes furious at Qiangu Dongfeng and vows to deal with him within five years.
• The chapter ends with Wulin and Yaozhu enjoying a private, intimate evening. His parents, in the neighboring room, are unable to sleep because the room’s soundproofing is inadequate and realize that their son has truly grown up.
• Meanwhile, Gu Yue is alone in Wulin’s dormitory, angrily grinding her teeth and calling him a terrible person, implying jealousy or resentment over his time with Yaozhu.

Character Developments

• Tang Wulin displays confidence, affection, and emotional maturity. He openly acknowledges all of his relationships to his parents and promises to take responsibility for the women he loves. His anger toward the Qiangu Clan also shows his growing protectiveness of his family and companions.
• Leng Yaozhu becomes more accepted within Wulin’s family and is visibly delighted by his parents’ approval. Her normally composed personality gives way to bashfulness and playful teasing. At the same time, she demonstrates strong moral outrage toward the Spirit Pagoda’s corruption.
• Tang Ziran and Lang Yue are initially overwhelmed by Wulin’s complicated romantic life, but they ultimately respond with trust and parental guidance rather than rejection. They are also deeply proud of Na’er and Wulin’s achievements.
• Na’er is revealed to have developed into an exceptionally powerful Soul Master and Battle Armor Master, showing that she has grown far beyond the innocent child Wulin once knew.
• Gu Yue is shown reacting with jealousy and frustration, suggesting tension caused by Wulin’s relationships with multiple girls.
• The Qiangu Clan is further characterized as hypocritical and ruthless, publicly presenting itself as righteous while secretly abducting people and pursuing weapons against Soul Beasts.

Significant Themes

• Growing up and family recognition: Wulin’s parents realize that their son is no longer a child. His accomplishments, romantic relationships, and ability to protect his family demonstrate his maturity.
• Love and responsibility: The chapter treats Wulin’s many relationships humorously but emphasizes that he must be honest, loyal, and considerate toward each girl.
• Family acceptance: Yaozhu’s acceptance by Wulin’s parents strengthens her position as part of his family, while Wulin’s revelations force his parents to confront his complicated adult life.
• Hypocrisy and corruption: The Spirit Pagoda and Qiangu Clan claim to represent justice and peace, yet engage in kidnapping, coercion, and potentially dangerous experiments targeting Soul Beasts.
• Power and moral consequences: The development of Soul Beast-suppressing potions raises concerns about the abuse of power and the possible exploitation or enslavement of powerful beings.
• Jealousy and romantic rivalry: Gu Yue’s anger at the end hints at emotional conflict among the girls competing for Wulin’s attention.

Character Interactions

• Wulin affectionately teases and kisses Yaozhu, while she responds with embarrassment but clear happiness.
• His parents openly praise Yaozhu and encourage her relationship with their son.
• Wulin and his parents share a candid conversation about Na’er, Gu Yue, and his other girlfriends, leading to shock but ultimately acceptance.
• Wulin and Yaozhu bond over their shared anger toward the Qiangu Clan and the harm it caused his parents.
• Their romantic exchange becomes intimate, while Wulin’s parents overhear enough to understand that he has fully entered adulthood.
• Gu Yue’s final reaction contrasts with Yaozhu’s contentment, highlighting the jealousy and emotional complications surrounding Wulin’s relationships.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The chapter begins with the end of final exams and the start of a one-month vacation for the students.
• Tang Wulin asks his friends about their vacation plans.
• Yuanen Yehui feels lonely as she has no home to return to.
• Tang Wulin invites Yuanen Yehui to come home with him, but she declines due to not being ready to meet his parents.
• Tang Wulin reassures her that she is welcome to come home with him anytime.
• Xu Xiaoyan asks Tang Wulin if he will disappear during the vacation, hinting at his time-traveling abilities.
• Tang Wulin assures them he won't disappear this time.
• Tang Wulin reveals his plan to take Xie Xie (Na'er) home during the vacation.

Character Developments

• Yuanen Yehui has found acceptance and a sense of belonging with her classmates, particularly Mu Xi and Zi Xin, and is no longer as lonely as before.
• Tang Wulin shows maturity and thoughtfulness in inviting Yuanen Yehui home and understanding her feelings.
• Gu Yue shows concern and slight jealousy regarding Tang Wulin's potential romantic entanglements during his time travels.

Significant Themes

• Family and Belonging: The theme of family and finding a place to belong is emphasized through Yuanen Yehui's situation and Tang Wulin's invitation to her.
• Growth and Change: The characters have grown and changed over time, as seen in their newfound acceptance of each other and their plans for the vacation.

Character Interactions

• Tang Wulin interacts with his friends, showing care and understanding towards Yuanen Yehui's situation.
• Gu Yue shows concern and slight possessiveness towards Tang Wulin, hinting at her feelings for him.
• The group dynamics are shown as they discuss their vacation plans together.

Key Plot Points and Events

• After defeating the third-year students, Tang Wulin's team replaces them to participate in the All-Continent Soul Master Academy Tournament in the Star Luo Empire.
• Tang Wulin, now a Seventh-Level Saint Craftsman, gets his Blacksmith rank assessed and receives his badge from Divine Craftsman Zhen Hua.
• A challenge is issued to the Blacksmith Association by an old man named Changong Yan and his disciple, Lin Yuhan. They propose a blacksmithing contest between their disciple and any Blacksmith Association member under 20 years old.

Character Developments

• Tang Wulin has become a Seventh-Level Saint Craftsman, demonstrating his exceptional blacksmithing talent.
• Gu Yue is shown to be protective of Tang Wulin, reacting jealously when Zhen Hua hints at wanting Tang Wulin as a son-in-law.
• Lin Yuhan, the challenger, is introduced as a skilled blacksmith with delicate hands.

Significant Themes

• The importance of reputation and honor in the Blacksmith Association is highlighted, as Zhen Hua feels compelled to accept the challenge to protect the association's prestige.
• The theme of fair competition is explored, as the old man's challenge is seen as exploitative by some, while Zhen Hua responds with magnanimity.

Character Interactions

• Tang Wulin and Gu Yue's relationship is further developed, with Gu Yue showing jealousy and protectiveness toward Tang Wulin.
• Tang Wulin is shown to be respected and valued by Zhen Hua, who entrusts him with representing the Blacksmith Association in the contest.
• The interaction between Zhen Hua and Changong Yan highlights the tension and mutual respect between two skilled Blacksmiths.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Tang Wulin meets Lin Yuhan, a fifteen-year-old Fifth-Level Blacksmith from the Star Luo Empire, who has come with her teacher, Changong Yan, to the Blacksmith Association.
• A forging competition is arranged between Tang Wulin and Lin Yuhan. Lin chooses the difficult rare metal Blue-Nurtured Copper, while Tang Wulin selects the much more ordinary Heavy Silver.
• Despite the apparent disadvantage in material quality, Tang Wulin instantly achieves Thousand Refinement with a single hammer strike. He then proceeds through Fusion Forging and Soul Forging with astonishing speed.
• Changong Yan recognizes that Tang Wulin’s ability far surpasses Lin Yuhan’s and admits defeat before the competition can properly conclude.
• Tang Wulin reveals that he was evaluated as a Seventh-Level Blacksmith—a Seven-Star Saint Craftsman—earlier that day. Zhen Hua confirms this publicly, shocking Changong Yan, Lin Yuhan, and the surrounding blacksmiths.
• Lin Yuhan is inspired and begins regarding Tang Wulin as her future goal in forging. Gu Yue notices her admiration and becomes quietly jealous.
• While Zhen Hua questions Changong Yan about his true purpose for visiting, a crimson concealed weapon suddenly attacks Zhen Hua.
• Gu Yue immediately teleports Tang Wulin and Zhen Hua away from the attack, prioritizing Tang Wulin’s safety. Mu Ye intercepts the crimson sword with his bare hand and pursues the unseen attacker.
• The chapter ends with the Blacksmith Association placed on alert and Mu Ye preparing to defend Tang Wulin and prevent Shrek from claiming him too easily.

2. Character Developments

• Tang Wulin: Demonstrates overwhelming forging talent, effortlessly surpassing Lin Yuhan and displaying abilities beyond what even experienced Saint Craftsmen can easily accomplish. He remains calm and modest, encouraging Lin rather than humiliating her. His strength and status are publicly established as those of a young Seven-Star Saint Craftsman.
• Lin Yuhan: Initially confident in her own exceptional talent, she is thoroughly shocked by Tang Wulin’s performance. Rather than becoming resentful, she accepts the defeat, admires him, and adopts him as her new forging benchmark.
• Changong Yan: Begins with confidence that Lin Yuhan’s superior choice of material will give her an advantage. Tang Wulin’s instant Thousand Refinement and subsequent Soul Forging force him to abandon his assumptions and honestly acknowledge defeat.
• Gu Yue: Shows strong protectiveness toward Tang Wulin. Her jealousy emerges when she notices Lin Yuhan’s growing admiration, and during the attack she instinctively saves Tang Wulin first, even taking Zhen Hua along only because he is nearby.
• Zhen Hua: Publicly validates Tang Wulin’s status and talent, presenting him as an extraordinary young figure in the forging world. He is also targeted by a sudden assassination attempt.
• Mu Ye: Further reveals his sharp senses and powerful cultivation by catching the crimson sword bare-handed. His determination to compete with Shrek for Tang Wulin’s allegiance becomes more explicit.

3. Significant Themes

• Extraordinary talent and generational comparison: Tang Wulin’s abilities are portrayed as unprecedented, raising the question of how geniuses like Lin Yuhan can coexist with someone vastly beyond their level.
• Humility despite superiority: Tang Wulin does not flaunt his advantage and instead gives Lin practical encouragement, suggesting that true mastery includes generosity toward rivals.
• Admiration, rivalry, and jealousy: Lin Yuhan’s admiration creates a new emotional complication, while Gu Yue’s protective jealousy highlights her attachment to Tang Wulin.
• Public recognition and danger: Tang Wulin’s revelation as a Saint Craftsman elevates his reputation but also underscores the danger of exposing exceptional strength in a world where powerful figures may target him.
• Protection and allegiance: Gu Yue and Mu Ye both act decisively to protect Tang Wulin, while Mu Ye’s pursuit also reflects the larger struggle over which faction will gain his loyalty.

4. Character Interactions

• Tang Wulin and Lin Yuhan: Their forging contest quickly becomes a demonstration of the vast gap between them. He treats her respectfully and encourages her future growth, while she becomes deeply impressed by him.
• Tang Wulin and Gu Yue: Gu Yue openly defends his excellence and reacts possessively when Lin Yuhan begins admiring him. Her immediate response to the attack shows that his safety is her foremost concern.
• Tang Wulin and Changong Yan: Changong Yan initially views him as an unknown challenger but is forced to respect him after witnessing his unprecedented forging speed and technique.
• Zhen Hua and Changong Yan: Zhen Hua confirms Tang Wulin’s identity and status, while Changong Yan accepts the reality of Tang Wulin’s superiority despite his initial confidence.
• Gu Yue, Zhen Hua, and Tang Wulin: When the assassination attempt occurs, Gu Yue rescues both Zhen Hua and Tang Wulin but makes clear through her actions that Tang Wulin is the person she is chiefly protecting.
• Mu Ye and Tang Wulin: Mu Ye intercepts the attack and leaves to pursue the enemy, silently signaling that he intends to protect Tang Wulin while continuing his rivalry with Shrek over Tang Wulin’s future.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• An assassin attempts to kill Zhen Hua, the president of the Blacksmith Association, during a challenge event.
• The assassin is identified as a Super Douluo-level agility-type Soul Master, possibly an Evil Soul Master.
• Zhen Hua decides to investigate the matter and keeps the visitors from Star Luo Continent, Changong Yan and Lin Yuhan, as temporary guests.

Character Developments

• Zhen Hua: Shows his powerful aura and pressure as a Four-Word Battle Armor Master and Titled Douluo, demonstrating his status and strength.
• Changong Yan: Admits to being from Star Luo Continent and explains the circumstances surrounding his visit, showing honesty and remorse.
• Lin Yuhan: Stands up for herself and Changong Yan, displaying courage and determination despite the situation.

Significant Themes

• Trust and suspicion: Zhen Hua's initial suspicion of Changong Yan and Lin Yuhan due to their continental origin, and his later decision to investigate before making a judgment.
• The power of identity: The impact of being from another continent on their treatment and the potential consequences.

Character Interactions

• Zhen Hua and Changong Yan: Zhen Hua initially suspects Changong Yan but decides to investigate before taking action, showing a degree of fairness and impartiality.
• Tang Wulin and Gu Yue: Tang Wulin's protective and affectionate behavior toward Gu Yue, solidifying their relationship as a couple.
• Mu Ye and Tang Wulin: Mu Ye attempts to recruit Tang Wulin into the Body Sect, but Tang Wulin declines due to his unique bloodline and personal reasons.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The author catches up on missed updates and shares their progress on the outline.
• They visit Peking University, expressing happiness about the experience.
• The group chat for A Bai's work surpasses 300 members.

Character Developments

• The author displays increased confidence and ease after working on the outline.
• They express excitement and gratitude towards their supporters.

Significant Themes

• Perseverance: The author catches up on missed work and continues making progress.
• Gratitude: They express appreciation for their supporters and the opportunities they've had.

Character Interactions

• The author interacts with their supporters through the group chat, sharing updates and expressing gratitude.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Tang Wulin declines Mu Ye's invitation to join the Body Sect.
• An Evil Soul Master, later revealed to be a Super Douluo, attacks Tang Wulin and Gu Yue.
• Bear Lord, a Fierce Beast, saves Gu Yue and reveals he recognizes Tang Wulin.

Character Developments

• Tang Wulin demonstrates calmness and composure under pressure.
• Gu Yue shows concern for Tang Wulin's safety.
• Mu Ye shows determination to recruit Tang Wulin.
• Bear Lord shows loyalty and concern for his 'masters.'

Significant Themes

• The power of the Body Sect's secret technique.
• The danger posed by Evil Soul Masters.
• The bond between Tang Wulin and Gu Yue.

Character Interactions

• Tang Wulin and Gu Yue display affection and concern for each other.
• Tang Wulin and Mu Ye have a tense interaction due to Mu Ye's invitation.
• Gu Yue and Bear Lord have a conversation about Tang Wulin, with Bear Lord expressing support for their relationship.
• Tang Wulin and Bear Lord have a brief, surprised interaction upon recognizing each other.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Tang Wulin's group is announced to leave for the Star Luo Empire exchange event.
• They will be gone for a year, with Wu Siduo and Lu Guixing temporarily taking over their class positions.
• The group is excited but also aware of the challenges ahead.

Character Developments

• Tang Wulin is calm and composed about leaving, understanding the opportunities that await them.
• Wu Siduo feels a mix of emotions about Tang Wulin's departure, including regret and unsettlement.
• Lu Guixing expresses envy and a desire to travel, while Yang Nianxia is determined to improve his forging skills in Tang Wulin's absence.
• Ouyang Zixin is excited about her opportunity to represent the academy and compete in the tournament.
• Mu Xi supports Ouyang Zixin and Yuanen Yehui, hoping for their success.

Significant Themes

• The exchange event represents an opportunity for growth and broadening horizons.
• The characters grapple with their emotions and expectations as they prepare for the journey.

Character Interactions

• Tang Wulin and Wu Siduo have a brief, awkward interaction, with Wu Siduo expressing her hopes for his success.
• Lu Guixing asks Wu Siduo out for dinner, but she declines.
• Tang Wulin's group packs their things and heads to Heavensea City, where they reminisce about their past experiences.
• Wu Zhangkong and Cai Yue'er accompany the group, with Cai Yue'er showing unusual interest in Tang Wulin.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Tang Wulin attracts the attention of several women, including Lin Yuhan, a Blacksmith from Star Luo Continent.
• Gu Yue becomes jealous and protective of Tang Wulin, forbidding him from interacting with other women.
• Tang Wulin and Gu Yue argue playfully about their relationship and boundaries.

Character Developments

• Gu Yue's jealousy and possessiveness over Tang Wulin become more apparent.
• Tang Wulin remains calm and understanding towards Gu Yue's feelings.
• Lin Yuhan is determined to pursue Tang Wulin despite knowing he has multiple partners.

Significant Themes

• Jealousy and possessiveness in relationships.
• The acceptance of polyamorous relationships, as shown through Gu Yue's and Tang Wulin's dynamic.

Character Interactions

• Gu Yue and Tang Wulin's playful banter highlights their affection and understanding towards each other.
• Lin Yuhan's determination to pursue Tang Wulin, despite knowing his relationship status, shows her resolve and confidence.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The narrator returns from a Beijing trip to find that their third granduncle has passed away.
• The granduncle, who was unmarried and childless, was cared for by the narrator's father in his final days.
• The granduncle's death follows the passing of the narrator's eldest and second granduncles in the previous years (2022 and 2023 respectively).

Character Developments

• The narrator reflects on the loss and the inevitability of death, expressing complex emotions.
• The narrator's father is shown to be caring and responsible, as he looked after the granduncle in his final days.

Significant Themes

• Mortality and the inevitability of death.
• Family and lineage, as the narrator reflects on their grandmother's siblings.
• The passage of time and the changes it brings.

Character Interactions

• The narrator's father and the third granduncle are highlighted, showing a caring relationship despite the granduncle's advanced age and the narrator's father's responsibilities.
• The narrator's grandmother is mentioned, placing the granduncle's passing in the context of her family.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The delegations board the ocean liners for their journey to the Star Luo Continent.
• Shrek Academy is arranged to stay on the Star Luo Liner, mixing with the Star Luo Royal Academy.
• Cai Yue'er, the leader of Shrek Academy, decides to stay in a cabin next to Tang Wulin's.

Character Developments

• Tang Wulin remains indifferent to the exchange with Star Luo Royal Academy.
• Cai Yue'er shows interest in staying close to Tang Wulin, hinting at her feelings for him.
• Gu Yue becomes increasingly suspicious of Cai Yue'er's intentions towards Tang Wulin.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics between Shrek Academy and the Federation.
• The potential conflict between Shrek Academy and Star Luo Royal Academy.
• The growing tension between Gu Yue and Cai Yue'er over Tang Wulin.

Character Interactions

• Tang Wulin and Cai Yue'er have a subtle exchange about the exchange with Star Luo Royal Academy.
• Gu Yue becomes increasingly jealous and suspicious of Cai Yue'er's intentions towards Tang Wulin.