Primordial Era: As Duobao's Brother, I Just Want to Comprehend the Dao Steadily - Chapter Summaries - Page 8

Ch. 141Rebel Army? Reinforcements!

Chapter Summary: “Rebel Army? Reinforcements!”

Key Plot Points and Events

Wen Zhong leads a massive Shang army from Chaoge toward Sishui Pass after declaring that he will not return until Xiqi is defeated. His elite Black-Armored Army consists entirely of powerful martial artists, making it an exceptionally formidable force.
Anticipating the coming conflict, Lu Chen summons the disciples of the Interception Sect to assemble outside Sishui Pass. Kong Xuan questions whether Lu Chen foresaw Dixin’s mobilization, and Lu Chen confirms that war was inevitable.
At Xiqi, Ji Chang regains confidence after receiving Shen Gongbao’s report and orders an attack. Shen Gongbao directs the assault on Sishui Pass, where Xiqi’s forces clash with Han Rong’s Shang defenders.
Shen Gongbao asks Guangchengzi and the other Chan Sect immortals to intervene, but Guangchengzi refuses. He and the others fear accumulating Karmic Sin by interfering in a Human Race war, especially after the damage they previously suffered.
As the battle stalls, Han Rong learns that a supposed rebel army has arrived behind Sishui Pass. Instead of preparing to fight them, he orders the gates opened, revealing that the “rebels” are actually Shang reinforcements.
The supposed rebel army is led by Huang Tianhua, son of the powerful Shang loyalist Huang Feihu. Huang Tianhua identifies himself as the Bandit-Quelling General and orders the troops to reinforce the city walls.
The deception causes confusion among both the Shang and Xiqi forces. Xiqi believes Sishui Pass is being attacked from both sides and intensifies its assault, unaware that the rebel army has secretly become reinforcements.
As the battle continues, Xiqi’s soldiers notice that the defenders seem to be increasing rather than dwindling. Shen Gongbao realizes that the “rebels” have joined the defense but orders the attack to continue.
The Chan Sect immortals observe the conflict from a tent, discussing the political and sectarian implications while the battlefield’s killing aura and karmic consequences flow into the fortunes of both the Shang Dynasty and the two major sects.
Meanwhile, Wen Zhong and the Black-Armored Army continue their rapid march toward Sishui Pass. Several days pass as the battle remains unresolved.

Character Developments

Wen Zhong is presented as a powerful, disciplined, and deeply loyal commander. His public oath and decisive leadership inspire the Shang army and emphasize his commitment to defending the dynasty.
Lu Chen demonstrates strategic foresight by anticipating the war and summoning the Interception Sect’s disciples before the conflict reaches its peak.
Kong Xuan appears calm and perceptive, recognizing the significance of the Shang army’s movement and questioning Lu Chen’s prior planning.
Shen Gongbao proves highly aggressive and strategically manipulative. Even after realizing that the rebel army has reinforced Sishui Pass, he refuses to retreat and instead pushes Xiqi into an even more costly assault.
Guangchengzi and the Chan Sect immortals are shown as cautious and self-interested. Their refusal to intervene stems less from compassion than from fear of Karmic Sin and concern for their own cultivation and status.
Han Rong displays confidence and tactical intelligence. He understands the secret plan behind the rebel army and calmly allows them into the city rather than revealing the deception.
Huang Tianhua is introduced as a young but authoritative military leader. His identity as Huang Feihu’s son immediately grants him credibility within the Shang command structure.
Wang Cheng provides a confused but practical perspective, representing the ordinary commanders caught in the increasingly elaborate political and military deception.

Significant Themes

Loyalty versus rebellion: The “rebel army” is revealed to be loyal Shang forces in disguise, showing how labels and appearances can be manipulated during war.
Strategy and deception: The Shang side uses misinformation, disguised reinforcements, and controlled rumors to mislead Xiqi and create a tactical advantage.
Karmic consequences of warfare: The immortals avoid direct intervention because killing Human Race soldiers could burden them with Karmic Sin, highlighting the spiritual cost of political conflict.
Sectarian interests: The Chan Sect and Interception Sect treat the war as part of their larger rivalry. The battlefield affects not only the Human kingdoms but also the fortunes of both religious factions.
Decline and militarization of the Human Race: The strength of a dynasty depends heavily on the number and quality of its martial artists. The Shang Dynasty’s recruitment of talent has weakened Xiqi while greatly strengthening Shang military power.
Individual lives versus strategic objectives: Soldiers die in enormous numbers while commanders and immortals debate tactics, sect interests, and karmic repercussions from relative safety.

Character Interactions

Wen Zhong and the Shang army: Wen Zhong rallies the troops through a solemn oath, establishing a unified sense of purpose.
Kong Xuan and Lu Chen: Their exchange emphasizes Lu Chen’s foresight and Kong Xuan’s awareness of the broader strategic situation.
Shen Gongbao and Guangchengzi: Shen Gongbao seeks direct immortal assistance, but Guangchengzi firmly refuses, exposing the Chan Sect’s reluctance to risk itself for Xiqi.
Han Rong and Wang Cheng: Han Rong’s unexplained order to open the gates confuses Wang Cheng, but the decision reveals Han Rong’s trust in the larger Shang plan.
Huang Tianhua and Wang Cheng: Their introduction is marked by mutual confusion over the “rebel” army’s true identity. Huang Tianhua’s lineage explains why the disguised troops are actually loyal reinforcements.
Shen Gongbao and Xiqi’s generals: Shen Gongbao’s aggressive commands override doubts and keep the Xiqi army attacking despite mounting casualties and an increasingly unfavorable situation.
Yuding and Daode True Immortal: Their brief exchange reflects internal Chan Sect disdain toward the Interception Sect and highlights the factional hostility behind their involvement in the war.

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Ch. 142Xiqi's Crushing Defeat

Summary of “Xiqi’s Crushing Defeat”

Key Plot Points and Events

After several days of exhausting siege warfare, Xiqi’s troops are depleted, demoralized, and suffering heavy casualties while attacking Sishui Pass.
Shen Gongbao and the Xiqi generals learn that the defenders are not merely rebels but reinforcements from Chaoge. Despite this revelation, they decide retreat is impossible because Xiqi lacks strong defensive passes and cannot withstand a Shang counterattack.
Shen Gongbao orders another assault. Exhausted soldiers reluctantly return to battle, motivated mainly by concern for their families rather than loyalty or enthusiasm.
Han Rong and Huang Tianhua organize Sishui Pass’s defense. They encourage the defenders with promises of generous rewards and compensation, while acknowledging that the trench outside the walls is already filled with the bodies of attacking Xiqi soldiers.
The Chan Sect immortals remain inside their tent, unwilling to intervene directly. Taiyi worries that Ji Chang will resent their inaction, but Guangchengzi insists that they came to oppose the Interception Sect, not to fight the Shang Dynasty on Xiqi’s behalf.
Wen Zhong arrives with the powerful Black-Armored Army. The pass opens, and the army launches a sudden counterattack against Xiqi.
The Black-Armored Army easily tears through the Xiqi forces. Their armor is impervious to ordinary weapons, their coordinated formations overwhelm even martial-artist generals, and Xiqi’s soldiers collapse into panic.
Shen Gongbao orders a retreat, but the army has already lost all discipline. The retreat becomes a rout, with soldiers abandoning weapons and armor as they flee.
Wen Zhong orders pursuit. The Black-Armored Army massacres the retreating Xiqi forces, threatening to destroy Xiqi’s military foundation completely.
Guangchengzi and eight other Chan Sect Golden Immortals finally intervene, creating a massive barrier to stop the slaughter and preserve the fleeing Xiqi army.
Zhao Gongming appears and condemns the Chan Sect immortals for claiming neutrality while interfering in mortal warfare. He challenges all nine immortals alone.
Zhao reveals Quasi-Saint-level power and attacks with the twenty-four Sea-Calming Pearls. The Chan Sect group is quickly overwhelmed: Guangchengzi, Taiyi, Ran Deng, and others are sent flying, while Huanglong is badly injured.
The Interception Sect’s leading figures observe from above. Lu Chen refuses Duobao’s suggestion to eliminate the Chan Sect immortals, explaining that they are insignificant compared with his real target: the Western Sect.

Character Developments

Shen Gongbao remains pragmatic and ruthless. He recognizes that the situation is disastrous but continues the siege because retreat would expose Xiqi to annihilation later. Once the Black-Armored Army appears, he correctly orders withdrawal, though the army’s morale has already collapsed.
Xiqi’s soldiers are shown as exhausted, frightened, and psychologically broken. Their continued fighting is driven by survival and responsibility toward their families rather than genuine confidence or patriotism.
Han Rong and Huang Tianhua demonstrate effective defensive leadership. They understand the advantage of Sishui Pass and maintain the defenders’ morale through rewards and promises of compensation.
Wen Zhong emerges as a decisive and commanding military leader. His arrival transforms the battle immediately, and his brief order to pursue turns the Xiqi retreat into a massacre.
Taiyi is reluctant to act because he fears bearing the karmic consequences of aiding Xiqi. His concern is not entirely compassion-based; he mainly wants the Chan Sect to share the burden collectively.
Guangchengzi presents himself as principled but is also cautious and politically calculating. He refuses to act initially, then intervenes only when Xiqi’s destruction threatens to strengthen Chaoge too greatly.
Huanglong suffers another emotional rejection. He hopes Taiyi will acknowledge him and allow him to share the karmic burden, but Taiyi ignores him. This deepens Huanglong’s loneliness and reinforces his belief that he has no place within the Chan Sect.
Zhao Gongming displays overwhelming confidence and loyalty to the Interception Sect. He openly mocks the Chan Sect’s hypocrisy and defeats their combined attack with ease.
Lu Chen shows strategic patience. He considers the Chan Sect immortals weak and refuses to waste time killing them, focusing instead on drawing out the more important Western Sect.
Ran Deng is criticized as stagnant and misplaced within the Chan Sect. Lu Chen suggests that Ran Deng’s failure to advance comes from following an unsuitable path rather than a lack of innate ability.

Significant Themes

The human cost of war: The chapter emphasizes exhaustion, corpses, fear, and soldiers fighting only because their families depend on them.
The difference between attack and defense: Sishui Pass’s fortifications and defensive preparations allow the defenders to survive repeated assaults, while Xiqi’s attackers are steadily destroyed.
Military discipline versus panic: The Black-Armored Army’s training and coordination contrast sharply with Xiqi’s disorganized retreat.
Hypocrisy and selective morality: The Chan Sect claims not to interfere in mortal conflicts, yet eventually intervenes when Chaoge’s victory threatens their broader interests.
Karmic responsibility: The immortals are wary of becoming entangled in the mortal war, revealing how spiritual advancement and political calculation influence their choices.
Isolation and prejudice: Huanglong’s treatment highlights discrimination within the Chan Sect and the lasting pain caused by Yuanshi’s prejudice against demonkind.
Strategic patience: Lu Chen’s decision to ignore the defeated Chan Sect immortals reflects the larger conflict’s political and spiritual complexity; the visible battle is only part of a broader struggle involving the Western Sect.

Character Interactions

Shen Gongbao debates the Xiqi generals and ultimately accepts their demand to continue the siege.
A frightened Xiqi soldier is reminded by a comrade of his mother, wife, and children, causing him to suppress his complaints and return to battle.
Han Rong and Huang Tianhua discuss the siege and prepare their forces for the final assault.
Taiyi asks Guangchengzi to act, but Guangchengzi refuses, insisting that the Chan Sect’s mission is limited. Taiyi then retreats into silence rather than acting alone.
Huanglong watches Taiyi hopefully, wanting recognition and companionship, but Taiyi deliberately ignores him. Huanglong leaves in despair.
Zhao Gongming confronts Guangchengzi and the other Golden Immortals, mocking their professed neutrality and challenging them single-handedly.
Ran Deng and the Chan Sect immortals unite against Zhao but are decisively defeated.
Duobao asks Lu Chen whether they should kill the Chan Sect immortals. Lu Chen rejects the idea, stating that the Western Sect is the true objective.

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Ch. 143Ji Chang's Death

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

At Jade Void Palace, Yuanshi Tianzun watches helplessly as Zhao Gongming overwhelms the Chan Sect’s disciples. He considers secretly rescuing them, but Tongtian notices his intention and warns him off.
Jieyin urges Zhunti to intervene and save the remaining Chan Sect immortals. Zhunti eventually acts, arriving at Sishui Pass just after Zhao Gongming kills Huanglong and Daode True Immortal with the Sea-Calming Pearls.
With Zhunti’s Buddhist light, the surviving seven Chan Sect immortals—among them Guangchengzi—are extracted from the battlefield. The Twelve Golden Immortals are now reduced by two.
Lu Chen orders Zhao Gongming and the Jie Sect immortals to withdraw, declaring that only the final stage of the conflict remains. Once the Chan Sect’s defensive barrier disappears, Wen Zhong’s Black-Armored Army resumes its assault on Xiqi.
The Black-Armored Army rapidly conquers Xiqi’s cities and passes, slaughtering the retreating forces. Their speed and strength are attributed to their elite Martial Dao cultivation and powerful equipment.
In Xiqi, Ji Chang learns that his army has been decisively defeated and that the Chan Sect immortals largely remained behind the lines instead of fighting. He becomes furious and feels betrayed.
Ji Chang later learns that the immortals did eventually establish a barrier, but a single Jie Sect immortal from Chaoge overcame them. This leaves him devastated by the overwhelming disparity between Shang and Xiqi.
As reports arrive that Chen Pass and Yi City have fallen, Ji Chang loses hope and believes he has led Xiqi toward destruction.
Shen Gongbao returns and offers three possible strategies: seek aid from the other regional lords, ask the Ancestral Court to mediate, or accept a terrible sacrifice.
The first two plans are dismissed as unrealistic. Shen Gongbao then reveals that the third strategy requires Ji Chang’s head. He attacks Ji Chang directly, strangling him and ending the chapter on a cliffhanger.

2. Character Developments

Zhao Gongming demonstrates overwhelming confidence and power, treating the battle as entertainment while killing two of the Twelve Golden Immortals.
Lu Chen appears calm and calculating, controlling the timing of the battle and signaling that the conflict is approaching its decisive conclusion.
Zhunti finally abandons his earlier inaction and rescues the surviving Chan Sect immortals, suggesting that the Western Sect recognizes the political consequences of allowing them to die.
Yuanshi Tianzun is shown as enraged and desperate, but restrained by Tongtian and the rules governing the conflict.
Ji Chang undergoes a rapid emotional collapse. His confidence in the Chan Sect turns to anger, then regret, despair, and self-blame as Xiqi’s forces are destroyed.
Shen Gongbao reveals a darker and more treacherous side. Although he pretends to accept responsibility and offers strategies, he ultimately turns against Ji Chang and attempts to kill him.
The Chan Sect immortals are portrayed as self-serving and unreliable, having avoided the battlefield until their survival was directly threatened.

3. Significant Themes

The gap between power and strategy: Xiqi’s conventional army cannot withstand Shang’s elite Black-Armored Army or the Jie Sect’s intervention.
Betrayal and misplaced trust: Ji Chang’s faith in the Chan Sect and Shen Gongbao collapses when both prove either useless or hostile.
Political and religious consequences: The Three Religions’ alliance forces the Western Sect to intervene, showing that personal actions affect broader sect reputations and future conflicts.
The collapse of ambition: Ji Chang’s dream of bringing glory to Xiqi gives way to regret as his decisions destroy the state he hoped to strengthen.
Sacrifice and ruthless power politics: Shen Gongbao’s proposed solution—Ji Chang’s death—suggests that rulers and allies are expendable when survival is at stake.
Inevitability of downfall: Lu Chen’s “final curtain” imagery and the successive reports of fallen cities frame Xiqi’s defeat as nearly unavoidable.

4. Character Interactions

Yuanshi and Tongtian: Tongtian anticipates Yuanshi’s attempt to interfere and prevents him from rescuing his disciples.
Jieyin and Zhunti: Jieyin cautiously urges Zhunti to act, reflecting both concern for the Chan Sect and fear of future repercussions.
Lu Chen and Zhao Gongming: Lu Chen directs Zhao Gongming to kill one or two immortals before Zhunti arrives, demonstrating strategic coordination.
Ji Chang and his messengers: The reports expose the Chan Sect’s cowardice and the devastating scale of Xiqi’s defeat.
Ji Chang and Shen Gongbao: Their relationship shifts from reliance to concealed hostility. Shen Gongbao maintains a respectful façade while preparing to eliminate Ji Chang.
Shen Gongbao and Ji Chang: The chapter ends with Shen Gongbao physically attacking Ji Chang, making his betrayal unmistakable and leaving Ji Chang’s fate uncertain.

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Ch. 144Boyikao Succeeds to the Marquisate, Shen Gongbao's Three Strategies to Break the Deadlock

Chapter Summary: Boyikao Succeeds to the Marquisate, Shen Gongbao’s Three Strategies to Break the Deadlock

Key Plot Points and Events

Shen Gongbao kills Ji Chang and disguises the death as grief-induced passing. He manipulates the guards into accepting the explanation, and Ji Chang’s death is soon announced throughout Xiqi.
Ji Chang’s sons, Boyikao and Ji Fa, discuss the succession. Ji Fa willingly supports Boyikao as the eldest and legitimate heir, prioritizing Xiqi’s stability over personal ambition.
The brothers suspect Ji Chang’s death was unnatural but decide that investigating it must wait. Their immediate concern is defending Xiqi from Chaoge’s Black-Armored Army.
Shen Gongbao visits the brothers and asks whether Boyikao intends to become the next Marquis of West. Ji Fa publicly confirms Boyikao’s intention, signaling their acceptance of Shen Gongbao’s influence.
Shen Gongbao quickly organizes Boyikao’s succession ceremony. Boyikao inherits the Marquisate that same afternoon, despite the lack of a mourning period and the rushed use of Ji Chang’s old clothing and crown.
Boyikao immediately places all military authority under Shen Gongbao’s command.
Shen Gongbao presents three possible strategies:
1. Negotiate peace with Shang by blaming Ji Chang, surrendering territory, and offering compensation.
2. Fight the Black-Armored Army despite less than a ten percent chance of victory.
3. Seek aid from Shen Gongbao’s allies and the Daoist, Western, and Chan-related factions.
Boyikao accepts all three options and is especially moved by Shen Gongbao’s offer to seek outside assistance, believing the National Preceptor is sincerely devoted to Xiqi.
After leaving the Marquis’s residence, Shen Gongbao secretly meets an unnamed collaborator at a restaurant, revealing that he has fulfilled his part of an earlier agreement.
Shen Gongbao then travels to Spirit Mountain rather than Kunlun Mountain and meets Zhunti. Zhunti seals Spirit Mountain to prevent other Sages from observing their conversation.
At the Jade Void Palace, Yuanshi and Tongtian continue their ideological confrontation. Yuanshi urges Tongtian to surrender, while Tongtian refuses, confident in the strength of his Jie Sect and its own Primordial Unity expert.
Shen Gongbao tells Zhunti that he has completed his assigned tasks and asks for help bringing the Great Tribulation to an end. The chapter ends as Zhunti asks how he intends to accomplish this.

Character Developments

Shen Gongbao becomes increasingly revealed as a calculating conspirator. He coldly kills Ji Chang, manipulates Xiqi’s officials, arranges Boyikao’s succession, and secretly coordinates with Zhunti while pretending to act solely for Xiqi’s survival.
Boyikao demonstrates political maturity and self-sacrifice. He accepts the burden of leadership during a crisis and is willing to choose humiliating concessions or near-certain death if either might preserve Xiqi.
Ji Fa proves loyal and pragmatic by renouncing any immediate claim to the Marquisate. He recognizes the danger of internal division and supports Boyikao without resentment.
Ji Chang is removed from the political struggle, while his death becomes the justification Shen Gongbao uses to reshape Xiqi’s leadership.
Yuanshi displays renewed confidence and arrogance, believing Tongtian will eventually be forced to surrender as the Jie Sect’s disciples are lost.
Tongtian remains defiant and confident, strengthened by the knowledge that his side possesses a Primordial Unity cultivator.
Zhunti appears secretive and strategically active, implying that Shen Gongbao’s actions are part of a larger plan to influence the Great Tribulation.

Significant Themes

Political manipulation and deception: Shen Gongbao gains control of Xiqi by disguising murder as a natural death and presenting himself as its indispensable protector.
Duty versus ambition: Ji Fa suppresses his own ambitions to prevent civil conflict, while Boyikao accepts leadership for the sake of the state.
The cost of survival: Peace would require humiliation and territorial concessions, while resistance could destroy Xiqi. The chapter emphasizes how war reduces moral and ceremonial concerns to practical necessities.
Appearance versus reality: Shen Gongbao appears loyal to Xiqi, but his secret dealings with Zhunti suggest that his public strategies serve hidden objectives.
Factional conflict: The tension between Yuanshi, Tongtian, and Zhunti reflects the wider struggle among the religious factions during the Great Tribulation.
Trust and misjudgment: Boyikao misreads Shen Gongbao’s motives, interpreting manipulation as selfless devotion.

Character Interactions

Shen Gongbao and Ji Chang: Their final interaction is openly hostile, ending with Shen Gongbao killing Ji Chang.
Boyikao and Ji Fa: The brothers reach an agreement over succession, temporarily eliminating rivalry and establishing mutual trust.
Shen Gongbao and the brothers: Shen Gongbao tests their intentions, secures Boyikao’s succession, and gains direct control over Xiqi’s military.
Boyikao and Shen Gongbao: Boyikao becomes deeply grateful to Shen Gongbao after hearing his third strategy, unknowingly strengthening Shen Gongbao’s authority.
Yuanshi and Tongtian: Their exchange highlights their opposing confidence: Yuanshi urges surrender, while Tongtian refuses and hints at hidden strength.
Shen Gongbao and Zhunti: Their secret meeting confirms that Shen Gongbao is acting under Zhunti’s instructions and has completed an important stage of their broader scheme.

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Ch. 145Four Religions Gather, Setting a Battle Date

Chapter Summary: Four Religions Gather, Setting a Battle Date

Key Plot Points and Events

Shen Gongbao proposes using the Western Sect’s support to bring the Chan Sect and Dao Sect into the conflict at Xiqi. He wants the Three Religions to unite against the Jie Sect, hoping to overwhelm it and destroy its disciples.
Zhunti hesitates because this plan would draw the Western Sect into the dangerous struggle. He suspects the Jie Sect may possess another Primordial Unity-level expert besides Tongtian, based on the powerful sword intent he previously sensed.
Believing this possible enemy is weaker than himself and trusting that he can retreat if necessary, Zhunti decides to take the risk. He agrees to help Shen Gongbao and promises to accept him as a personal disciple if the plan succeeds.
Zhunti gives his disciples permission to choose whether to aid Xiqi. Medicine Master and Maitreya volunteer, partly out of loyalty and partly because they want to test themselves against the famous Jie Sect disciples.
Shen Gongbao visits First Sun Mountain and asks Xuandu to aid the Chan Sect in the name of the Three Religions’ shared bond. Laozi orders Xuandu to accompany him, making the Dao Sect part of the alliance.
Yuanshi separately orders the Chan Sect Golden Immortals to descend and defend Xiqi, since Xiqi’s fate is tied to Chan Sect fortune. He fears the Jie Sect will grow even stronger if it absorbs Xiqi’s fortune.
Outside Xiqi, Shen Gongbao formally challenges the Jie Sect to a contest of ten magical matches, with six victories deciding the battle. If the alliance wins, the Shang army must withdraw; if the Jie Sect wins, Xiqi will surrender.
Zhao Gongming confidently accepts and mocks the assembled opponents, even offering to fight them all at once.
Lu Chen intervenes and makes the terms even more humiliating: the Jie Sect will withdraw if the opposing side wins only one match. Wen Zhong accepts Lu Chen’s authority, despite the Shang generals’ concerns that this gives Xiqi an unnecessary chance.
Angered by the Jie Sect’s contempt, Shen Gongbao accepts the revised terms. The first match is set to begin immediately.

Character Developments

Shen Gongbao reveals his ambition and hostility toward the Chan and Dao Sects. Though formerly a Chan Sect disciple, he now sees himself as completely separated from them and is willing to risk everything to destroy their disciples. His political manipulation becomes clear when he frames the appeal as aiding the Chan Sect rather than saving Xiqi.
Zhunti is shown as cautious but opportunistic. He weighs the danger of a hidden Primordial Unity expert against the enormous opportunity to eliminate the other three religions and make the Western Sect dominant. His willingness to flee if necessary demonstrates both confidence and pragmatism.
Medicine Master and Maitreya display courage and curiosity. They want to leave secluded cultivation behind and measure themselves against the renowned Jie Sect disciples.
Xuandu initially wants to refuse Shen Gongbao’s request, knowing the danger posed by Zhao Gongming, but Laozi’s command forces him to participate.
Yuanshi remains concerned with the Chan Sect’s fortune and its position relative to Tongtian. His decision to send the Golden Immortals is motivated as much by preserving Chan Sect power as by rescuing Xiqi.
Lu Chen demonstrates overwhelming confidence and authority. By reducing the required victory from six to one, he treats the opposing alliance as no serious threat and takes control of the negotiations.
Wen Zhong shows absolute obedience to Lu Chen, placing his martial uncle’s command above his own strategic concerns.

Significant Themes

Pride versus caution: Zhunti carefully considers the risks, while Lu Chen and Zhao Gongming respond with complete confidence, creating a sharp contrast between strategic calculation and overwhelming self-assurance.
Religious alliances and political manipulation: The Three Religions unite under the claim of shared interests, but each faction is motivated by self-interest, fortune, reputation, or the desire for supremacy.
Fortune and power: Xiqi is important not merely as a kingdom but because its fortune is connected to the Chan Sect. Control of that fortune may determine the balance among the religions.
Reputation and humiliation: The Chan Sect’s previous defeat by Zhao Gongming continues to damage its confidence. The Jie Sect’s laughter and Lu Chen’s insulting terms deepen the psychological pressure on the opposing side.
Risk and ambition: Zhunti’s decision reflects the chapter’s central gamble: a dangerous coalition may either destroy the Jie Sect or expose the Western Sect and its allies to catastrophe.
Strength versus numbers: The alliance gathers members from four religions and many rogue cultivators, but the Jie Sect’s superior individual power makes the numerical advantage seem meaningless.

Character Interactions

Zhunti and Shen Gongbao: Shen Gongbao persuades Zhunti to support the alliance plan. Zhunti rewards his ambition by promising to make him a personal disciple if he succeeds.
Zhunti, Medicine Master, and Maitreya: Zhunti speaks ambiguously to avoid responsibility, but Medicine Master correctly interprets his meaning. Both disciples choose to participate.
Shen Gongbao and Xuandu: Shen Gongbao appeals to Xuandu’s loyalty to the Chan Sect rather than to Xiqi. His success leads Laozi to order Xuandu into the conflict.
Laozi, Yuanshi, and Jieyin: Their silent exchange confirms that the leaders of the major sects recognize the significance of the Three Religions’ joint action.
Shen Gongbao and Lu Chen: Shen Gongbao proposes formal rules for the confrontation, but Lu Chen dismisses the proposed six-win requirement and declares that even one victory will be enough for the Jie Sect to withdraw.
Zhao Gongming and the alliance: Zhao Gongming openly taunts the opposing forces, reminding the Chan Sect members of their earlier defeat and worsening their shame.
Lu Chen and Wen Zhong: Wen Zhong accepts Lu Chen’s authority without question, even when the Shang army’s generals worry that the terms could allow Xiqi to survive.

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Ch. 146One Against Ten

Chapter Summary: One Against Ten

Key Plot Points and Events

Zhao Gongming volunteers to fight the first round for the Jie Sect, while Lu Chen intends to defeat all ten opponents across the duel.
None of the Three Religions’ disciples initially dares to face Zhao Gongming one-on-one because he is already a Quasi-Saint, while they remain below that realm.
Lu Chen deliberately provokes them by allowing multiple opponents to fight Zhao Gongming simultaneously.
Pressured by concerns over their reputation, Xuandu, Medicine Master, Guangchengzi, and the other disciples agree to send ten Zenith Heaven Golden Immortals into battle together.
Guangchengzi proposes using weaker fighters to exhaust Zhao Gongming first, but the group realizes this strategy will fail if Zhao Gongming remains in the arena. They ultimately decide to fight him collectively.
The Three Religions reveal powerful Sage-level treasures:
- Guangchengzi wields the Pangu Banner.
- Xuandu uses the Taiji Diagram.
- Medicine Master possesses the Twelfth-Grade Meritorious Golden Lotus.
Duobao worries that Zhao Gongming may be unable to withstand these treasures and offers to replace him, but Lu Chen remains confident in Zhao Gongming.
The battle begins. Zhao Gongming attacks with his Twenty-Four Sea-Calming Pearls, while Guangchengzi, Xuandu, and Medicine Master combine offense and defense through their treasures.
The initial clash produces devastating shockwaves that injure soldiers and shake the battlefield.
Zhao Gongming also deploys the Dragon-Binding Rope against Ran Deng and the others while concentrating most of his power on the Sea-Calming Pearls.
The battle reaches a stalemate: Zhao Gongming cannot break through the combined defenses, but Guangchengzi cannot overcome the Sea-Calming Pearls.
Zhao Gongming then unveils a mysterious black bottle with a terrifying devouring power. It begins pulling at the Pangu Banner, Taiji Diagram, and Meritorious Golden Lotus, shocking their wielders.

Character Developments

Lu Chen remains calm, confident, and strategically observant. He trusts Zhao Gongming and appears to have a hidden plan or greater certainty about the outcome.
Zhao Gongming displays overwhelming confidence and intense battle enthusiasm. Rather than fearing the Sage treasures, he becomes excited by the chance to confront their power.
Guangchengzi shows significant growth in composure and strategic thinking. Unlike his former arrogant self, he now plans cautiously and considers battlefield endurance and resource management.
Xuandu and Medicine Master demonstrate pragmatism by accepting that they must cooperate and commit their strongest treasures.
Duobao acts protectively toward Zhao Gongming and shows awareness of the danger posed by the Sage treasures.
Shen Gongbao is frustrated by the Three Religions’ hesitation and recognizes how difficult it is to lead such a divided alliance.
Ran Deng and the other disciples react with envy and mixed emotions toward the treasures entrusted to Guangchengzi, Xuandu, and Medicine Master.

Significant Themes

Reputation versus survival: The Three Religions fight not only to win but to avoid being branded cowards throughout the Primordial World.
Confidence and intimidation: Lu Chen’s provocations expose the opponents’ fear, while Zhao Gongming’s eagerness reverses the expected psychological advantage.
Strategic cooperation: Formerly divided factions must unite and combine their treasures to face a single superior opponent.
The importance of magical treasures: At the highest levels of cultivation, powerful artifacts can determine the balance of battle, even against stronger opponents.
Composure under pressure: Guangchengzi’s transformation from arrogance to cautious calculation contrasts with Zhao Gongming’s fearless battle spirit and Lu Chen’s unwavering calm.
Hidden strength and reversals: Zhao Gongming’s black bottle introduces a new weapon that may overturn the apparent stalemate.

Important Character Interactions

Lu Chen and Zhao Gongming: Lu Chen grants Zhao Gongming the first match and later refuses Duobao’s offer to replace him, signaling deep trust.
Lu Chen and Shen Gongbao: Lu Chen taunts Shen Gongbao’s side for refusing to fight and offers increasingly favorable conditions to force them into action.
Shen Gongbao and the Three Religions: Shen Gongbao pressures them to respond, but their hesitation reveals internal distrust and fear.
Guangchengzi, Xuandu, and Medicine Master: They debate tactics before agreeing to fight together, combining the Pangu Banner, Taiji Diagram, and Meritorious Golden Lotus.
Duobao and Lu Chen: Duobao voices concern over Zhao Gongming’s safety, while Lu Chen reassures him that Zhao Gongming can handle the challenge.
Zhao Gongming and the opposing group: Zhao Gongming directly challenges ten powerful opponents and responds to their supreme treasures with excitement rather than fear.

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Ch. 147Exposure

Chapter Summary: “Exposure”

Key Plot Points and Events

Zhao Gongming reveals the Heaven-Devouring Treasure Vase, shocking the Primordial World because it is the fifth known Primordial Supreme Treasure.
The treasure’s appearance severely overwhelms the battlefield. The Pangu Banner, Taiji Diagram, Merit Golden Lotus, and numerous other treasures are destabilized, while many Golden Immortals and Buddhist disciples are badly injured.
Seeing an opportunity to obtain the treasure, Saint Zhunti intervenes. Although he initially claims to be protecting his disciples, his true goal is clearly the Heaven-Devouring Treasure Vase.
Zhunti attempts to seize the vase, but its runes activate and devour part of his hand. The treasure also absorbs or suppresses the Pangu Banner, Taiji Diagram, and Merit Golden Lotus, severing their owners’ connections to them.
The observers realize that the vase is not merely powerful but appears to possess an independent, terrifying devouring ability. Its origins are linked to Lu Chen, who previously used it to refine Spirit Liquid.
Zhunti openly challenges Lu Chen, offering to withdraw if Lu Chen defeats him—but only after trying to take the treasure by force. Lu Chen publicly mocks Zhunti’s shamelessness.
Zhunti then reveals that Lu Chen is not merely a Great Luo cultivator but has secretly reached the Primordial Unity realm.
Lu Chen’s cultivation is fully exposed as he advances through four steps, breaking through from the Zenith Heaven Golden Immortal level to Grand Primordial Luo, shocking the entire Primordial World.
With Lu Chen’s true strength revealed, the Demon Race’s leaders, Dijun and Taiyi, decide that the time has come to mobilize their forces.
The confrontation between Lu Chen and Zhunti finally begins. Zhunti attacks with the Seven-Treasure Wondrous Tree, but Lu Chen casually creates a black hole and devours it.

Character Developments

Lu Chen is revealed to have concealed his true cultivation for a long time. His transformation from someone believed to be permanently trapped at Great Luo into a Grand Primordial Luo cultivator establishes him as one of the strongest figures in the Primordial World.
Zhunti is portrayed as openly greedy and opportunistic. His desire for the Primordial Supreme Treasure outweighs concerns about dignity, karma, or provoking the Jie Sect. Despite losing part of his hand, he remains composed and attempts to force Lu Chen into a battle.
Zhao Gongming demonstrates that he possesses a second Primordial Supreme Treasure, though the vase is ultimately revealed to be connected to Lu Chen.
Tongtian becomes the subject of suspicion because his sect possesses multiple Primordial Supreme Treasures. He denies knowing a method to upgrade treasures, but the other Sages remain unconvinced.
Laozi, Yuanshi, and Jieyin grow wary of Tongtian and the Jie Sect, recognizing that the sect’s hidden strength is far greater than they had believed.
Dijun and Taiyi are encouraged by Lu Chen’s breakthrough and prepare to activate their long-planned military forces.

Significant Themes

Hidden strength and revelation: Lu Chen’s concealed cultivation is exposed at a critical moment, dramatically changing the balance of power.
Greed versus dignity: Zhunti’s willingness to risk immense karma and humiliation for a Primordial Supreme Treasure highlights the extreme value of such artifacts.
Power and ownership: The chapter questions whether a treasure’s strength comes only from its wielder. The Heaven-Devouring Treasure Vase appears capable of acting independently and overwhelming even Sage-level treasures.
Political balance and escalation: The appearance of another Primordial Supreme Treasure and Lu Chen’s advancement threaten to destabilize the existing power structure among the Sages, the Jie Sect, and the Demon Race.
Fear of the unknown: The hidden observers and ancient powers are unsettled because neither the vase’s full origins nor Lu Chen’s true limits are understood.

Character Interactions

Zhunti and Lu Chen: Their exchange is openly confrontational. Zhunti attempts to justify his interference as a challenge, while Lu Chen ridicules him for disguising greed as fairness. Their battle begins with Lu Chen effortlessly neutralizing Zhunti’s attack.
Lu Chen and the Jie Sect immortals: Duobao and the others worry when Zhunti appears, but Lu Chen reassures them and remains confident. Before confronting Zhunti, he instructs them to return first.
Tongtian and the other Sages: Laozi, Yuanshi, and Jieyin question Tongtian about the Jie Sect’s multiple Primordial Supreme Treasures. Tongtian refuses to reveal his method, deepening their suspicion.
The Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors: They discuss the vase’s extraordinary power and learn that it may be Lu Chen’s treasure.
Dijun and Taiyi: They celebrate Lu Chen’s advancement and use it as a signal to begin the Demon Race’s next major military action.

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Ch. 148Lu Chen Battles Zhunti

Chapter Summary: “Lu Chen Battles Zhunti”

1. Key Plot Points and Events

Lu Chen uses his Devouring Dao and Heaven-Devouring Treasure Vase to swallow and suppress Zhunti’s Seven-Treasure Wondrous Tree inside a devouring black hole.
Zhunti counters by extending a massive spiritual-energy hand into the black hole, turning the battle into a contest of cultivation and magical power rather than flashy techniques.
While Zhunti is occupied, Duobao and the Jie Sect disciples capture Maitreya, Medicine Master, Guangchengzi, Xuandu, and the other opposing cultivators.
Duobao declares that the remaining Rogue Immortals may fight, but warns that casualties will be their own responsibility. Realizing the immense gap in cultivation, most refuse to participate.
Zhao Gongming quickly knocks Shen Gongbao unconscious. Yunxiao then activates a massive formation over Xiqi, trapping the remaining Rogue Immortals and killing them. Their true spirits fly toward the Investiture List.
In the Heavenly Court, Haotian is shocked to discover that Lu Chen has secretly reached the Primordial Unity realm. Six Ears also senses someone significant and descends to the battlefield.
Six Ears identifies the powerful young cultivator as Yuan Hong, with whom he shares a deep karmic connection. Rather than kill him while holding an overwhelming advantage, Six Ears invites him to Carefree Island for a future fair battle.
Yuan Hong initially protests the deaths of the Rogue Immortals, but Six Ears explains that their true spirits will enter the Investiture List, allowing them to gain divine bodies, positions, longevity, and stable cultivation after the tribulation.
Six Ears leaves with Yuan Hong, confidently declaring that Lu Chen will certainly defeat Zhunti.

2. Character Developments

Lu Chen: Reveals that he has reached the Primordial Unity realm and demonstrates the terrifying depth of his Devouring Dao. He maintains control over Zhunti’s treasure and gains the strategic advantage.
Zhunti: Displays confidence and immense power, but becomes increasingly constrained by his need to recover the Seven-Treasure Wondrous Tree. His unwillingness to sacrifice the treasure causes him to ignore Maitreya’s capture.
Duobao: Shows strategic ruthlessness and growing authority. He exploits Zhunti’s distraction, captures the opposing disciples, and makes clear that he will not offer the fairness associated with his senior brother.
Shen Gongbao: Is placed in a helpless position as his allies are intimidated or overwhelmed. His attempt to protect them fails, and Zhao Gongming knocks him unconscious.
Six Ears: Demonstrates both overwhelming strength and a strong martial code. He refuses to kill Yuan Hong unfairly, instead offering him a future battle. His confidence in Lu Chen reflects deep loyalty and faith in his master.
Yuan Hong: Shows courage and an acceptance of fate, initially expecting to die. His confrontation with Six Ears rekindles his fighting spirit and gives him hope for a genuine contest in the future.
Haotian: Becomes envious and unsettled upon learning that Lu Chen has secretly advanced to Primordial Unity.
Zhao Gongming: Shifts from joking and teasing to serious judgment, recognizing that Six Ears and Yuan Hong’s karmic conflict is not for outsiders to interfere with.

3. Significant Themes

Strength and survival: The chapter repeatedly emphasizes that weakness is the original sin of the Primordial World. Those with inferior cultivation cannot expect equal treatment or protection.
Fairness versus power: Duobao rejects the idea of absolute fairness, while Six Ears upholds fairness in personal combat by refusing to defeat Yuan Hong through an overwhelming advantage.
Fate and choice: Yuan Hong believes the conflict is an unavoidable heavenly tribulation, yet Six Ears gives him the choice to pursue a future battle rather than die immediately.
Death and transformation: The deaths of the Rogue Immortals are reframed through the Investiture List. Their physical deaths may lead to divine positions, longevity, and a more secure existence.
Loyalty and confidence: Six Ears’s certainty that Lu Chen will win highlights his devotion to his master and reinforces Lu Chen’s growing stature.
Hidden cultivation and strategic concealment: Lu Chen’s secret advancement surprises both Haotian and the wider cultivation world, showing the value of concealing one’s true strength.

4. Character Interactions

Lu Chen and Zhunti: Engage in a tense, high-level contest over the Seven-Treasure Wondrous Tree, with Lu Chen’s devouring black hole gradually suppressing Zhunti’s treasure.
Zhunti and Maitreya: Zhunti notices Maitreya’s capture but chooses not to divert his attention from the battle, leaving Maitreya disappointed and despairing.
Duobao and Shen Gongbao: Duobao pressures Shen Gongbao’s allies by warning that he will not guarantee their safety, exposing the imbalance between the two sides.
Zhao Gongming and Shen Gongbao: Zhao Gongming ends the confrontation decisively by knocking Shen Gongbao unconscious.
Six Ears and Yuan Hong: Their interaction changes from a potential execution to a promise of an honorable future duel. Their exchange reveals mutual respect despite their opposing positions.
Six Ears and Zhao Gongming: Zhao Gongming teases Six Ears about Yuan Hong, but later recognizes the seriousness of their karmic relationship.
Yuan Hong and the Rogue Immortals: Yuan Hong sympathizes with their fate, but ultimately accepts Six Ears’s explanation that their true spirits may gain a better future through the Investiture Tribulation.
Six Ears and Lu Chen: Though Lu Chen is absent from their direct conversation, Six Ears’s unwavering belief in his master’s victory underscores their close bond.

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