Chapter Summaries

Chapter Summary

• Plot and Events: During a violent rainstorm, Zhao Zhi shelters in an abandoned village house. A group of seven or eight travelers arrives, led by a merchant named Qian Yuan, who offers silver in exchange for shelter. Zhao Zhi gives the false name Lu Guangyi, coincidentally sharing the name of Qingfeng County’s magistrate. More people gradually enter the house, including two scholars from White Peak Academy and various travelers, until the small building becomes severely overcrowded.
• While the others settle in, Zhao Zhi secretly uses the Merit Panel. He spends 1,000 Merit to fuse several internal cultivation arts—including the Incomplete True Martial Mountain-Suppressing Technique, Little Spring Technique, Innate Unity Qi Technique, and Iron Horse Grounding Stance—creating the far more powerful Modified True Martial Mountain-Suppressing Technique. The new technique strengthens his body and internal qi, while retaining the potential for future improvement.
• Once the technique is complete, Zhao Zhi senses that his power has greatly surpassed what it was at Fairy Maiden Temple. He then realizes that Qian Yuan and the others are not innocent travelers seeking shelter. Accusing Qian Yuan of waiting for the right moment to strike, Zhao Zhi attacks first, grabbing Qian Yuan by the head and smashing it through a table and into the floor.
• Character Development: Zhao Zhi remains calm, observant, and suspicious throughout the encounter. His heightened perception allows him to detect the number of people outside and recognize that the gathering is unnatural. The successful creation of the Modified True Martial Mountain-Suppressing Technique marks a major increase in his cultivation and physical strength. His willingness to attack without hesitation shows his growing confidence and decisiveness.
• Qian Yuan presents himself as a friendly, generous merchant, but his brief reaction to Zhao Zhi’s clothing and name suggests concealed knowledge or suspicion. His repeated efforts to control the situation and gather people inside the house imply that he is orchestrating a trap.
• Themes: The chapter emphasizes deception and hidden motives, contrasting the travelers’ polite behavior with the danger Zhao Zhi senses beneath the surface. It also highlights power gained through adaptation and fusion, as Zhao Zhi transforms multiple martial arts into a superior technique. Other themes include vigilance, concealed identity, and the importance of acting before an enemy can seize the initiative.
• Character Interactions: Qian Yuan repeatedly speaks courteously to Zhao Zhi, offers him silver and pastries, and asks for his permission to admit additional travelers. Zhao Zhi responds with restrained indifference, refusing the gifts and giving minimal answers. The scholars and other newcomers thank him for allowing them to stay, creating an appearance of harmless cooperation. This outward civility ends when Zhao Zhi directly challenges Qian Yuan and launches a sudden, brutal attack.

Chapter Summary: “Malevolent Entity Aura”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Inside a cramped house in Liang Family Village, Zhao Zhi realizes that the strange villagers sheltering from the rain are actually Malevolent Entity Auras.
• He kills Qian Yuan by blasting inner force into his head, causing the entity to dissolve into black mist. A system notification awards him 70 Merit.
• Zhao Zhi confirms that ordinary weapons are ineffective against these entities; only astral force or powerful inner force can kill them.
• He methodically destroys the other entities, including two scholars and a swordsman who attempts to attack him from behind. His defensive Diamond Force withstands the sword strike, and his inner force obliterates the attacker.
• In fewer than ten breaths, Zhao Zhi exterminates dozens of Malevolent Entity Auras and gains nearly 2,000 Merit.
• Upon leaving the house, he discovers that Liang Family Village is actually a ruined, abandoned settlement under bright sunlight—not the storm-filled village he had just experienced.
• Suspecting that he has encountered a ghostly maze, Zhao Zhi decides to leave before stronger or stranger entities appear.
• After he departs, the rain returns and the ruined village is restored, while two shadowy figures approach seeking shelter, implying that the supernatural cycle continues.
• With 1,922 Merit, Zhao Zhi upgrades the Modified True Martial Mountain-Suppressing Technique. It transforms into Primordial Unity True Art: Foundation Establishment, producing a new form of inner force: Primordial Unity Inner Force.

Character Development

• Zhao Zhi demonstrates growing confidence and overwhelming combat ability. The Malevolent Entity Auras, despite their supernatural nature, pose no real threat to him.
• He shows improved tactical awareness by identifying the entities through their unnatural behavior and corpse-like appearance rather than relying solely on combat.
• Zhao Zhi also displays caution and restraint. Although he could continue investigating the village, he recognizes the danger of an unknown supernatural environment and chooses to withdraw.
• His focus on accumulating Merit reflects his pragmatic cultivation strategy, treating weak entities as an opportunity to strengthen himself.
• The cultivation upgrade marks a major advancement, as his former technique evolves into a higher-level art and fundamentally changes the nature of his inner force.

Significant Themes

• Supernatural deception and reality: The false rain, restored buildings, and apparent villagers reveal how Malevolent Entities distort perception and create repeating illusions.
• Power versus knowledge: Zhao Zhi is powerful enough to destroy the entities easily, but he remains aware that his understanding of Malevolent Entities is limited.
• Cultivation through opportunity: The chapter emphasizes Zhao Zhi’s efficient use of danger and Merit to advance his martial abilities.
• Uncertainty and hidden danger: The village’s apparent weakness may conceal a greater threat, leaving the true nature and limits of the ghostly maze unresolved.
• Transformation and progression: Zhao Zhi’s technique evolves into Primordial Unity True Art, symbolizing a major step in his martial development.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Zhi and Qian Yuan: Zhao Zhi identifies Qian Yuan as an entity and kills him with inner force after noticing his unnatural corpse-like appearance.
• Zhao Zhi and the scholars: He attacks the scholars directly, destroying them before they can respond.
• Zhao Zhi and the swordsman: The swordsman launches a surprise attack, but Zhao Zhi’s Diamond Force blocks it. Zhao Zhi then seizes him by the throat and destroys him.
• Zhao Zhi and Liang Family Village: The village functions almost like a supernatural opponent, trapping him in an illusion of rain and shelter before revealing itself as an abandoned ruin.
• The approaching shadowy figures: Their arrival after Zhao Zhi’s departure suggests that the village will continue ensnaring new victims.

Chapter Summary: “The Profound Nether Platform”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Zhi arrives in Jing Prefecture City and travels to the Profound Nether Platform, the powerful institution that oversees martial missions and guards.
• He presents the Brief Guide to the Profound Nether Platform and is admitted to meet Yan Qing, as arranged by Fan Zhenyu.
• Yan Qing explains the organization’s hierarchy:
  • Formal Profound Nether Guards undertake D-grade missions.
  • Advancement to Banner Officer requires Meridian Opening Realm strength and C-grade merit.
  • Missions range from D-grade opponents at Foundation Establishment strength to A-grade enemies of even greater power.
• Yan Qing arranges lodging for Zhao Zhi and promises to take him on a D-grade mission so he can officially become a Profound Nether Guard.
• Zhao Zhi reveals that he has gained insight into the incomplete True Martial Mountain-Suppressing Technique.
• After Zhao Zhi leaves, Yan Qing meets Tang Chuxue and reveals that Zhao Zhi may be the third person capable of comprehending the technique.
• The two discuss the True Martial Inheritance, which may contain the True Martial Elixir—an artifact capable of curing Tang Chuxue’s grandfather.

Character Developments

• Zhao Zhi is formally introduced to the Profound Nether Platform and begins moving toward an official position within it. His ability to comprehend the True Martial Mountain-Suppressing Technique marks him as unusually talented and potentially important.
• Yan Qing shows gratitude and warmth toward Zhao Zhi because he saved her life. She takes personal responsibility for helping him advance and becomes excited by the possibility that his insight may lead to the True Martial Inheritance.
• Tang Chuxue is established as calm, aloof, and skeptical. Unlike Yan Qing, she remains cautious about placing hope in the elusive inheritance.
• Yan Qing’s normally cold public persona is revealed to be partly deliberate. Around people she trusts, she is lively, affectionate, and expressive.

Significant Themes

• Strength and merit determine status: Although connections may exist within the Profound Nether Platform, genuine advancement ultimately depends on ability and surviving increasingly dangerous missions.
• Talent and hidden potential: Zhao Zhi’s unexpected comprehension suggests that humble origins do not limit extraordinary martial potential.
• Hope versus skepticism: Yan Qing eagerly hopes the True Martial Inheritance will be found, while Tang Chuxue guards herself against disappointment after three years of fruitless searching.
• Debt and gratitude: Yan Qing’s willingness to assist Zhao Zhi stems from his having saved her life.
• The danger of power: The mission-ranking system emphasizes that martial advancement carries severe risks, as many Profound Nether Guards die while completing missions.

Important Character Interactions

• Zhao Zhi and Yan Qing: Yan Qing welcomes him, explains the Profound Nether Platform’s system, arranges his accommodations, and asks about his cultivation. Their interaction shows mutual respect, though Yan Qing is more openly warm because of her debt to him.
• Yan Qing and He Peng: Yan Qing orders He Peng to care for Zhao Zhi and satisfy his needs during his stay.
• Yan Qing and Tang Chuxue: Yan Qing excitedly seeks Tang Chuxue’s opinion of Zhao Zhi and shares the news of his insight. Tang Chuxue responds with measured approval and cautions Yan Qing to guide him properly.
• Yan Qing and Tang Chuxue regarding the inheritance: Their conversation reveals that finding the True Martial Inheritance is tied to curing Tang Chuxue’s grandfather, giving their search a deeply personal motivation.

Chapter Summary: “D-grade Mission”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Zhi settles into a private courtyard within the Profound Nether Platform, an unusual privilege for someone who has not yet become a Formal Profound Nether Guard.
• He studies the Profound Nether Platform’s rank system and mission structure:
  • Formal Profound Nether Guards begin as Strongmen.
  • Completing missions and reaching higher martial realms allows promotion to Junior Banner Officer, Banner Commander, and beyond.
  • Merit from missions can be exchanged for cultivation resources, equipment, wealth, or official positions.
• Zhao Zhi receives the Cloudsea Qi Tempering Technique, a standard cultivation manual that reaches Innate Perfection. However, he rejects it because his self-created Primordial Unity True Art: Foundation Establishment is far superior.
• Two days later, Yan Qing visits and gives Zhao Zhi a D-grade Mission, which he must complete to officially become a Formal Profound Nether Guard.
• Yan Qing explains that she cannot accompany him because she intends to undertake a C-grade Mission, marking her advancement into the Meridian Opening Realm.
• Instead, she arranges for He Peng, an experienced Profound Nether Guard who has completed two missions, to accompany Zhao Zhi.
• After Yan Qing leaves, Zhao Zhi becomes suspicious of her unusually generous treatment and wonders whether she is interested in the incomplete True Martial Mountain-Suppressing Technique he possesses.

Character Developments

• Zhao Zhi demonstrates growing confidence and discernment. He quickly understands the Profound Nether Platform’s system and recognizes that its standard cultivation technique offers him no benefit. His calm life in the courtyard contrasts with his ruthless conduct at Flying Cloud Stronghold.
• He also reveals a cautious, analytical side by questioning Yan Qing’s motives rather than blindly accepting her assistance.
• Yan Qing is preparing to advance into the Meridian Opening Realm and pursue promotion through a C-grade Mission. Her repeated assistance toward Zhao Zhi suggests either genuine gratitude, strategic interest, or curiosity about his martial inheritance.
• He Peng is introduced as a relatively experienced guide who will help Zhao Zhi navigate the procedures of his first mission.

Significant Themes

• Strength and merit determine status: Advancement within the Profound Nether Platform depends primarily on martial cultivation and mission achievements.
• Independence versus institutional systems: Zhao Zhi has already surpassed the Platform’s standard cultivation resources, emphasizing his unusual potential and self-reliance.
• Hidden motives and suspicion: Yan Qing’s generosity appears excessive, leading Zhao Zhi to suspect that she wants something from him.
• Peace amid danger: Zhao Zhi’s quiet life in the courtyard sharply contrasts with the violence and pressure of the Profound Nether Platform.

Character Interactions

• Yan Qing formally delivers Zhao Zhi’s mission and offers practical support despite being unable to accompany him.
• Zhao Zhi congratulates Yan Qing on her progress toward the Meridian Opening Realm, while she expresses confidence in his future advancement.
• Their interaction is polite but somewhat awkward, with Yan Qing struggling to communicate naturally after modeling herself on Tang Chuxue’s reserved demeanor.
• Zhao Zhi accepts He Peng’s assistance, recognizing that procedural experience may be more useful than additional combat support.

Chapter Summary: “Tea Stall”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Zhi and He Peng travel along the difficult mountain road toward Blackwind Mountain to complete a D-grade mission: suppress Blackwind Stronghold and kill its chief, Xiahou Cheng.
• They stop at a small roadside tea stall. Zhao Zhi immediately suspects the unusually young tea-stall owner is an informant for Blackwind Stronghold, since the stall lies within the bandits’ territory.
• A second group arrives: Pan Hu, Chen Nanxing, and Zhou Jin, three seemingly wealthy young people pretending to travel through the martial world. They also stop for tea.
• The group orders coarse tea and simple pastries, though Chen Nanxing complains that the stall has none of the refined food or tea he is accustomed to.
• Before anyone drinks or eats, He Peng notices something suspicious. He draws his sword against the stall owner, causing a small bamboo tube to fall from the owner’s sleeve.
• The terrified owner confesses that he was forced to work for Blackwind Stronghold. He claims the bandits destroyed Wang Family Village, killed everyone except him, and compelled him to serve as their informant.

Character Developments

• Zhao Zhi is shown to be observant, cautious, and experienced. His background as a constable allows him to recognize the tea stall as likely connected to the bandits.
• He Peng proves similarly alert and decisive. He watches the owner closely and confronts him before the group can consume anything potentially dangerous.
• Pan Hu acts as the most composed and considerate member of his group, especially toward Zhou Jin. He encourages the others to accept the crude conditions of the martial world.
• Chen Nanxing is boastful and pampered, confidently claiming he can defeat Xiahou Cheng in one move, but he is also inexperienced with the realities of traveling in the martial world.
• Zhou Jin is curious and idealistic, fascinated by the “real” martial world she has heard about in stories, yet worried about facing the infamous Xiahou Cheng.
• The tea-stall owner initially appears suspicious but is revealed to be a frightened survivor coerced into aiding the bandits.

Significant Themes

• Appearance versus reality: The humble tea stall, its young owner, and the aristocratic-looking travelers conceal danger, suspicion, and hidden motives.
• Caution and experience: Zhao Zhi and He Peng’s vigilance contrasts with the other group’s relative naivety and lack of familiarity with the martial world.
• The harshness of the martial world: The owner’s account of Wang Family Village’s destruction emphasizes the violence and cruelty of mountain bandits.
• Idealized versus actual martial life: Zhou Jin romanticizes the martial world through storytellers’ tales, while the crude tea, difficult mountain road, and threat of ambush reveal its unpleasant reality.
• Coercion and survival: The owner’s betrayal is presented not as willing treachery but as the desperate act of a survivor forced to serve his enemies.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Zhi and He Peng discuss the tea stall’s suspicious nature and agree to observe the owner rather than act immediately.
• Pan Hu, Chen Nanxing, and Zhou Jin banter about the difficult journey, their mission, and the kind of food and tea expected in the martial world.
• Pan Hu gently restrains Chen Nanxing’s complaints and encourages him to adapt to their surroundings.
• He Peng’s interrogation of the tea-stall owner exposes the owner’s connection to Blackwind Stronghold.
• The owner’s confession draws the attention of all six travelers and directly links the tea stall to the larger threat posed by Xiahou Cheng and his bandits.

Chapter Summary: “Why Didn’t You Come Sooner?”

Key Plot Points and Events

• A tea-stall shopkeeper is captured after being suspected of assisting Blackwind Stronghold. He tearfully claims that the bandits murdered his family and forced him to cooperate because the authorities and Profound Nether Platform never came to protect him.
• Zhou Jin sympathizes with the shopkeeper and asks that he be released. Chen Nanxing also argues that the Profound Nether Guards have a duty to protect ordinary people, causing He Peng to hesitate.
• Zhao Zhi instead notices that the shopkeeper somehow recognizes him and He Peng as Profound Nether Guards, despite their not wearing official uniforms. He suspects the man is actually a Blackwind Stronghold bandit posing as a victim.
• When the shopkeeper gives an evasive explanation, Zhao Zhi kills him by snapping his neck. The system confirms that the man was a bandit who had willingly become depraved and awards Zhao Zhi nine merit points.
• Zhao Zhi tells the others to drink the tea before judging his decision. Pan Hu tests it with a Star-Tear Stone bead, which turns crimson, proving that the tea is poisoned.
• Although Chen Nanxing and Zhou Jin still argue that Pan Hu’s antidotal treasure could have protected them, Pan Hu acknowledges that Zhao Zhi and He Peng acted correctly because of their greater experience.
• Determined to prove themselves, Zhou Jin and Chen Nanxing decide to attack Blackwind Stronghold and kill its chief, Xiahou Cheng in front of the Profound Nether Guards.
• The group travels toward Blackwind Stronghold, a heavily defensible mountain fortress. The stronghold has three Xiantian-level martial artists, including Xiahou Cheng, whose cultivation is at Innate Perfection.
• Zhao Zhi is confident that Xiahou Cheng will not be difficult to defeat, since he previously killed the stronger Xianyu Tu. As Zhao Zhi and He Peng approach the stronghold, Pan Hu, Zhou Jin, and Chen Nanxing catch up with them.

Character Developments

• Zhao Zhi is shown to be highly observant, decisive, and ruthless when necessary. Unlike the others, he does not allow emotional pleading to cloud his judgment and quickly identifies the poisoned tea-stall trap.
• He Peng initially hesitates because of the shopkeeper’s emotional appeal, revealing a more compassionate and conflicted side. He ultimately follows Zhao Zhi’s lead.
• Zhou Jin is compassionate but inexperienced and overly trusting. She judges Zhao Zhi harshly for killing the shopkeeper before understanding the danger.
• Chen Nanxing shares Zhou Jin’s impulsiveness and desire to prove himself. Rather than accepting Zhao Zhi’s superior judgment, he turns the mission against Blackwind Stronghold into a contest.
• Pan Hu acts as the more reasonable member of the group. He verifies the poison, understands Zhao Zhi and He Peng’s experience, and recognizes the dangers of attacking Blackwind Stronghold despite his confidence in his own abilities.

Significant Themes

• Appearance versus reality: The shopkeeper’s performance as a helpless victim conceals his allegiance to the bandits.
• Experience versus naïveté: Zhao Zhi’s practical judgment contrasts with the younger group’s emotional reactions and lack of experience in the martial world.
• The burden of protection: The shopkeeper’s accusation—“Why didn’t you come sooner?”—raises questions about the authorities’ failure to protect civilians and the complicated morality of those forced to cooperate with criminals.
• Justice and mercy: The chapter explores whether someone who claims to have acted under coercion deserves forgiveness, especially when he is still actively plotting harm.
• Pride and rivalry: Chen Nanxing and Zhou Jin’s decision to kill Xiahou Cheng is motivated partly by their desire to prove themselves to Zhao Zhi and the Profound Nether Guards.

Character Interactions

• Zhou Jin pleads with Zhao Zhi to spare the shopkeeper, while Chen Nanxing reinforces her argument by invoking the Profound Nether Guards’ duty to protect civilians.
• The shopkeeper emotionally manipulates Zhou Jin, Chen Nanxing, and He Peng by recounting the deaths of his family and blaming the authorities for arriving too late.
• Zhao Zhi challenges the shopkeeper’s story by questioning how he identified the guards, exposing the inconsistency in his claims.
• After discovering the poisoned tea, Pan Hu explains to Zhou Jin and Chen Nanxing why Zhao Zhi’s actions were justified.
• Zhou Jin and Chen Nanxing then resolve to confront Xiahou Cheng, turning the mission into an opportunity to demonstrate their strength.

Chapter Summary:

Blackwind Stronghold

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Zhi and He Peng encounter three unexpected visitors near Blackwind Stronghold: Chen Nanxing, Pan Hu, and Zhou Jin, young members of influential clans from Jing Prefecture City.
• Chen Nanxing announces that the trio has come to eliminate Xiahou Cheng, the chief of Blackwind Stronghold, and insists that Zhao Zhi and He Peng leave the matter to them.
• Although He Peng worries about offending the powerful Chen, Pan, and Zhou clans, Zhao Zhi decides to let the trio proceed, believing their recklessness may make the mission easier.
• Chen Nanxing provocatively calls for Xiahou Cheng from outside the stronghold. A bandit shoots at him, but Chen catches the arrow and returns it, killing the watchman.
• The bandits pour out of the stronghold. Their second chief, Gao Sheng, confronts the group and deliberately invites them inside.
• Despite Zhou Jin’s fear and Chen Nanxing’s hidden nervousness, the three enter Blackwind Stronghold. Zhao Zhi and He Peng follow them.
• Inside, the group is surrounded by numerous bandits and brought before Xiahou Cheng, a formidable and intimidating middle-aged man.
• Chen Nanxing boldly condemns Xiahou Cheng’s crimes and demands that he surrender. Xiahou Cheng responds by ordering Gao Sheng to kill him.
• The chapter ends as Gao Sheng charges Chen Nanxing with his Eight-Zhang Serpent Spear.

Character Developments

• Zhao Zhi remains calm, observant, and pragmatic. Rather than confronting the stronghold directly, he allows the arrogant young nobles to create an opening before following them inside.
• He Peng shows caution and awareness of political complications, recognizing that the three clan youths possess social status that the Profound Nether Guard cannot easily disregard.
• Chen Nanxing presents himself as fearless and domineering, but his trembling hands, swallowing, and repeated glances at Zhao Zhi reveal that he is frightened. Nevertheless, he demonstrates genuine martial ability by catching and throwing back the arrow.
• Pan Hu acts as a steadying presence, reassuring the frightened Zhou Jin and following Chen into danger.
• Zhou Jin is visibly intimidated by the growing number of bandits and stays close behind Pan Hu.
• Gao Sheng is experienced and perceptive. He quickly recognizes that the newcomers are unusual, suppresses his anger, and lures them into the stronghold.
• Xiahou Cheng is portrayed as a powerful, ruthless bandit chief who responds to Chen’s accusations with immediate violence.

Significant Themes

• Recklessness versus prudence: The young nobles rush into danger driven by confidence and ideals, while Zhao Zhi and He Peng carefully assess the situation.
• Appearance versus reality: Chen Nanxing acts bold and heroic despite being deeply afraid, while Zhao Zhi’s quiet composure reflects genuine confidence.
• Social power and authority: The trio’s aristocratic identities force the Profound Nether Guard to exercise restraint, showing how political status affects justice and law enforcement.
• Justice and heroism: Chen Nanxing attempts to play the righteous avenger, condemning Xiahou Cheng’s crimes, though his ability to achieve justice remains uncertain.
• Predator and prey: By inviting the group inside and surrounding them, Blackwind Stronghold reverses the apparent power dynamic, turning the would-be heroes into trapped targets.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Zhi and He Peng privately discuss how to handle the powerful but reckless young nobles.
• Chen Nanxing openly challenges He Peng’s authority and dismisses the Profound Nether Guard’s right to interfere.
• Chen repeatedly looks toward Zhao Zhi for reassurance while trying to maintain a fearless image.
• Pan Hu comforts Zhou Jin as the group enters the stronghold.
• Gao Sheng verbally tests Chen Nanxing before allowing the group inside.
• Chen Nanxing confronts Xiahou Cheng with accusations and demands his surrender, prompting Xiahou Cheng to order Gao Sheng’s attack.

Chapter Summary: “Have You Forgotten Us?”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Nanxing confronts Gao Sheng, the Second Chief of Blackwind Stronghold. He skillfully evades Gao Sheng’s spear attacks, deflects the weapon, and lands a powerful punch that severely injures Gao Sheng.
• Confidently, Chen challenges Xiahou Cheng, the First Chief. However, Xiahou Cheng’s overwhelming strength quickly proves superior. He defeats Chen Nanxing with a single palm strike, sending him crashing into the shattered entrance and causing him to spit blood.
• When Xiahou Cheng attempts to finish Chen, Pan Hu intervenes. Xiahou Cheng anticipates the attack and knocks Pan Hu away with a single palm, leaving him injured and destroying a chair in the process.
• Zhou Jin tries to stop Xiahou Cheng by revealing that she, Pan Hu, and Chen Nanxing are heirs of the powerful Zhou, Pan, and Chen clans of Jing Prefecture City.
• Xiahou Cheng initially hesitates, recognizing the danger of provoking these influential families, but decides that killing all of them and concealing the crime is safer than allowing them to escape.
• As Xiahou Cheng advances on Zhou Jin, Zhao Zhi finally speaks up, reminding him that he and the others have been overlooked.
• Xiahou Cheng attacks Zhao Zhi, but Zhao calmly counters by stomping into his chest with tremendous force. Xiahou Cheng suffers catastrophic internal injuries and is thrown into his chair.
• Zhao finishes him by sending his saber through Xiahou Cheng’s body, pinning him to the ground. The system rewards Zhao with 223 merit points for killing the cruel and evil chief.

Character Developments

• Chen Nanxing demonstrates considerable confidence and skill, easily overpowering Gao Sheng. However, his confidence is challenged when Xiahou Cheng reveals a vastly greater level of strength.
• Gao Sheng is established as an Innate Minor Achievement martial artist who is decisively weaker than Chen Nanxing.
• Xiahou Cheng is portrayed as physically powerful, ruthless, and calculating. Though initially wary of the major clans, his fear of retribution gives way to murderous pragmatism.
• Pan Hu shows courage by intervening to protect Chen Nanxing, but he is quickly defeated by Xiahou Cheng.
• Zhou Jin is frightened and vulnerable once the others are incapacitated. She relies on her family status to deter Xiahou Cheng, but her threat only makes him consider eliminating them more thoroughly.
• Zhao Zhi remains calm and observant throughout the battle. His understated response reveals that he is far stronger than the others and has deliberately allowed Xiahou Cheng to expose himself before striking decisively.

Significant Themes

• Strength versus social status: The noble family backgrounds of Zhou Jin, Pan Hu, and Chen Nanxing provide influence but offer no immediate protection against superior martial power.
• Ruthlessness and survival: Xiahou Cheng’s decision to kill the group reflects the brutal logic of the martial world, where eliminating witnesses can seem safer than risking future revenge.
• Hidden power and restraint: Zhao Zhi deliberately stays in the background until the proper moment, emphasizing the danger of underestimating a quiet or seemingly passive opponent.
• Justice and moral retribution: Xiahou Cheng is explicitly recognized as a cruel evildoer, and his death earns Zhao merit, framing the killing as punishment rather than mere self-defense.

Character Interactions

• Chen Nanxing and Gao Sheng engage in a direct duel, with Chen clearly dominating.
• Chen then challenges Xiahou Cheng, but Xiahou reverses the power dynamic and gravely injures him.
• Pan Hu attempts to rescue Chen, leading to another brief clash with Xiahou Cheng and Pan Hu’s defeat.
• Zhou Jin invokes the prestige of the Zhou, Pan, and Chen clans to protect the group, but Xiahou Cheng responds by threatening to kill them all.
• Zhao Zhi interrupts Xiahou Cheng’s assault and effortlessly defeats him, shifting the scene from desperation to complete victory.

Chapter Summary: “Beheading”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Zhi effortlessly kills Xiahou Cheng, the chief of Blackwind Stronghold, in only two moves. His immense strength comes from reaching Foundation Establishment Perfection in the Primordial Unity True Art, giving him power comparable to a Meridian Opening Realm martial artist.
• Blackwind Stronghold’s second and third chiefs, Gao Sheng and Lü Yang, immediately surrender after witnessing Xiahou Cheng’s death. Zhao Zhi executes both of them with Sword Qi.
• The Merit system rewards Zhao Zhi for fulfilling the brothers’ vow that they would live and die together.
• Zhao Zhi announces that Blackwind Stronghold is disbanded. The remaining bandits, terrified by his overwhelming strength, offer no resistance.
• Rather than personally manage the captured bandits, Zhao Zhi assigns Pan Hu, Chen Nanxing, and Zhou Jin to divide the task: two will remain at the stronghold while one will report to the nearest county magistrate. The bandits’ punishments will be determined according to their crimes.
• Zhao Zhi beheads Xiahou Cheng so the Profound Nether Platform can verify the mission immediately upon his return.
• Three days later, Zhao Zhi and He Peng submit the mission scroll and Xiahou Cheng’s head. The mission is confirmed complete, and Zhao Zhi is promoted from Trainee to Formal Profound Nether Guard.
• As part of his promotion, Zhao Zhi receives one free Meridian Opening Realm martial art from the Scripture Pavilion. He chooses the Innate Qi Transformation Technique, the successor to the Innate Unity Qi Technique.
• With over 3,000 Merit available, Zhao Zhi plans to combine this technique with the Primordial Unity True Art to create a unique Meridian Opening Realm cultivation method.

Character Developments

• Zhao Zhi: Demonstrates a dramatic increase in power, defeating Xiahou Cheng with ease and revealing that his foundation has surpassed ordinary Innate Perfection experts. He becomes more strategic and authoritative, efficiently resolving the bandit crisis and securing his promotion.
• He Peng: Continues to support Zhao Zhi and is impressed by his strength. He initially worries about Pan Hu and the others handling hundreds of bandits but accepts Zhao Zhi’s explanation that their powerful backgrounds will protect them.
• Pan Hu: Shows maturity and practical judgment by stopping Chen Nanxing from objecting to Zhao Zhi’s order. He accepts responsibility for dealing with the stronghold, despite the danger.
• Chen Nanxing and Zhou Jin: Remain shocked by Zhao Zhi’s overwhelming strength. Chen Nanxing is reluctant to accept the assignment, while Zhou Jin silently observes the events.
• Xiahou Cheng, Gao Sheng, and Lü Yang: Their deaths mark the complete collapse of Blackwind Stronghold’s leadership.

Significant Themes

• Overwhelming strength and progression: Zhao Zhi’s cultivation advancement allows him to defeat an enemy who once would have been a serious threat, emphasizing his rapid growth.
• Authority and justice: Zhao Zhi dismantles the stronghold and arranges for the bandits to face judgment according to their crimes rather than simply killing them all.
• The risks and flaws of institutional systems: The Profound Nether Platform’s promotion system technically allows trainees to complete missions in groups, even though the organization tolerates this loophole because of its extremely high casualty rate.
• Powerful backgrounds and social privilege: Pan Hu and the others are entrusted with a dangerous responsibility partly because their aristocratic or influential lineages are expected to protect them.
• Ambition and self-reliance: Zhao Zhi does not merely accept an existing Meridian Opening technique; he intends to use it as the basis for creating a martial art of his own.

Character Interactions

• The wounded Zhou Jin, Pan Hu, and Chen Nanxing react with disbelief to Zhao Zhi’s swift execution of Xiahou Cheng.
• Gao Sheng and Lü Yang beg Zhao Zhi for mercy, but he kills them without hesitation.
• Zhao Zhi orders Pan Hu, Chen Nanxing, and Zhou Jin to handle the remaining bandits, while Pan Hu agrees on behalf of the group.
• He Peng questions whether the three young martial artists can survive managing the stronghold, prompting Zhao Zhi to explain that their families’ influence will ensure their safety.
• At the Profound Nether Platform, Zhao Zhi’s successful mission leads directly to his formal promotion and access to higher-level martial arts.

Summary: “Meridian Opening Realm”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Zhi uses 2,000 Merit to evolve his Foundation Establishment technique, the Primordial Unity True Art, into a Meridian Opening technique. However, because he possesses only the Innate Qi Transformation Technique as a template and lacks sufficient Merit, the result is merely a flawed remnant rather than a complete, personalized martial art.
• He recognizes that he needs additional Meridian Opening techniques from the Profound Nether Platform and plans to earn more Merit through missions.
• Zhao Zhi spends another 1,000 Merit to raise the remnant technique to the entry level. His cultivation advances as he forms a dantian qi sea, greatly increasing the density and strength of his inner qi.
• Although his inner qi is already comparable to that of Meridian Opening martial artists at minor or even major accomplishment, his meridians remain insufficiently developed, preventing him from fully matching their overall realm.
• After deciding to earn Merit properly, Zhao Zhi prepares to visit Yan Qing, who helped him join the Profound Nether Platform and has since advanced to become a Banner Officer.
• Instead, he accepts a solo C-grade mission: capture or kill Luo Hong, the Wind-Chasing Bandit, a Meridian Opening martial artist renowned for his movement techniques.
• Luo Hong was last seen seven days earlier in Linquan County, making the mission difficult because he may have already moved elsewhere. Nevertheless, Zhao Zhi chooses it because other missions require teams, while this one suits his current abilities.
• In Linquan County, Zhao Zhi investigates Luo Hong’s whereabouts by meeting Zhu Yunzhen, the county’s respected female constable and one of the officials responsible for the case. The chapter ends as he asks her where Luo Hong may have gone.

Character Developments

• Zhao Zhi advances from Foundation Establishment into the entry level of the Meridian Opening Realm. His cultivation foundation proves unusually strong, especially his inner qi, thanks to the quality of the Primordial Unity True Art.
• He becomes more aware of his limitations: his technique is incomplete, his meridians are not yet fully opened, and he lacks sufficient Merit to perfect his cultivation method.
• Zhao Zhi demonstrates increasing independence and practicality by deliberately selecting a mission he can complete alone rather than relying on a larger group.
• Yan Qing is revealed to have advanced rapidly after completing a C-grade mission, becoming a Banner Officer under Chief Banner Officer Tang Chuxue. Her diligence earns Zhao Zhi’s admiration and gratitude.
• Zhu Yunzhen is introduced as a capable and celebrated female constable. Unlike someone valued merely for appearance, she has genuine martial and investigative ability, serving as one of Linquan County’s chief constables.
• Luo Hong is established as a dangerous fugitive whose cultivation and movement skills make him difficult for ordinary authorities to apprehend.

Significant Themes

• Cultivation and gradual advancement: Progress in the martial path requires both powerful techniques and sustained effort. Zhao Zhi’s breakthrough illustrates that reaching a new realm is only the beginning of mastering it.
• The value and scarcity of resources: Merit functions as both a reward and a bottleneck. Zhao Zhi must balance spending it on cultivation with earning more through dangerous missions.
• Quality versus quantity in martial arts: Zhao Zhi’s incomplete technique still produces exceptionally powerful inner qi, showing that the quality of a cultivation method can create advantages even before the practitioner fully masters a realm.
• Responsibility and justice: Luo Hong’s crimes demonstrate the limits of ordinary law enforcement and explain why the Profound Nether Platform intervenes in cases beyond the ability of local constables.
• Self-reliance and calculated risk: Zhao Zhi chooses a difficult but manageable mission, reflecting his growing confidence and willingness to test himself.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Zhi’s thoughts show his respect and gratitude toward Yan Qing, particularly because she supported his entry into the Profound Nether Platform.
• His interaction with the Mission Hall is indirect but important: he uses the available mission records to assess which assignment best matches his strength.
• Zhao Zhi meets Zhu Yunzhen in a teahouse and addresses her courteously but directly. He asks about Luo Hong’s movements, relying on her expertise in the case.
• Zhu Yunzhen responds openly and confidently, indicating a cooperative relationship between the local constabulary and the Profound Nether Platform.
• The chapter establishes a likely investigative partnership between Zhao Zhi and Zhu Yunzhen as they work to track the elusive Luo Hong.

Chapter Summary: “Luo Hong”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Zhi learns from Zhu Yunzhen that Luo Hong is extremely elusive and appears only sporadically, making a simple stakeout impractical.
• Zhao requests records of Luo Hong’s crimes to identify a pattern.
• That night, Luo Hong secretly enters the Linquan County yamen and meets Zhu Yunzhen.
• Luo Hong reveals that he has returned because he intends to confront and kill Zhao Zhi, a Profound Nether Guard, in order to absorb his flesh-and-blood essence and strengthen his martial cultivation.
• He also claims that, after killing Zhao Zhi, he will take Zhu Yunzhen away to live freely with him.
• Luo Hong pressures Zhu Yunzhen into helping him set a trap for Zhao Zhi. He further urges her to betray and possibly kill Xue Qingyi, her master, but Zhu initially refuses because of their bond.
• After emotional manipulation and promises of becoming an “immortal couple,” Zhu eventually agrees to assist him.
• The following morning, Zhu gives Zhao the case records and points out a crucial pattern: Luo Hong always commits his crimes on the twentieth day of the month, and it always rains that day.
• Since the twentieth is only two days away—and rain is expected—Zhu predicts Luo Hong will strike in Linquan County.
• Zhu assures Zhao that the county yamen and Xue Qingyi will support him, but Zhao insists on handling the mission alone.
• Zhu leaves to inform Xue Qingyi, while Zhao studies the evidence, apparently unaware that Zhu has secretly allied herself with Luo Hong.

Character Developments

• Zhao Zhi is shown as analytical and cautious. Rather than waiting passively, he seeks historical records and identifies the importance of timing and weather. His confidence is also evident when he decides to confront Luo Hong without requesting additional Profound Nether Guards.
• Luo Hong appears charming, calculating, and ruthless. He combines romantic affection with manipulation, using Zhu Yunzhen’s feelings to secure her cooperation. His return is motivated both by desire for Zhu and by ambition to absorb Zhao’s power.
• Zhu Yunzhen is torn between her duty as a constable, loyalty to her master Xue Qingyi, and her love for Luo Hong. Although she initially warns Luo Hong and resists betraying Xue, his persuasion overwhelms her judgment, leading her to participate in the planned ambush.
• Xue Qingyi does not appear directly, but her authority and importance are emphasized through Zhu’s reluctance to betray her and Luo Hong’s desire to eliminate her as a potential obstacle.

Significant Themes

• Love versus loyalty: Zhu’s affection for Luo Hong conflicts with her duty to the law and loyalty to her master.
• Manipulation disguised as romance: Luo Hong frames his criminal plans as a path to freedom and eternal companionship, using Zhu’s emotions to control her.
• Deception and hidden motives: Zhu presents Zhao with seemingly helpful information while concealing her collaboration with Luo Hong.
• Pattern and deduction: Zhao’s investigation demonstrates how recurring details—dates and weather—can reveal a criminal’s habits.
• Ambition and power: Luo Hong’s willingness to challenge the Profound Nether Platform reflects his growing confidence and desire for greater strength.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Zhi and Zhu Yunzhen: Their official cooperation appears cordial and mutually supportive, but Zhu secretly intends to lure Zhao into Luo Hong’s trap.
• Luo Hong and Zhu Yunzhen: Their private meeting is intimate but heavily manipulative. Luo uses affection, promises of escape, physical closeness, and emotional pressure to recruit her.
• Zhu Yunzhen and Xue Qingyi: Though Xue does not appear, Zhu’s refusal to harm her shows a deep master-disciple bond that Luo Hong attempts to undermine.
• Luo Hong and Zhao Zhi: They do not meet directly, but Luo’s plan centers on ambushing and killing Zhao before he can capture him.

Chapter Summary: Eroding Spring Wind

Key Plot Points and Events

• On July 20, Xue Qingyi, the chief constable of Linquan County, waits in a restaurant with Zhao Zhi, a Profound Nether Guard, and Zhu Yunzhen. They are expecting the wanted criminal Luo Hong to appear.
• Xue Qingyi believes Luo Hong is likely hiding at the Peng residence, while officers monitor the Wu Family and Red Sleeve Pavilion.
• During the wait, Xue offers Zhao Zhi Evergreen Spring Tea, a local specialty. Both men drink it, unaware that Luo Hong has poisoned it.
• Luo Hong eventually appears in the restaurant, revealing that he deliberately allowed himself to be found. He explains that the tea contains Eroding Spring Wind, a poison that steadily drains inner energy and eventually dissolves the victim’s flesh, tendons, and bones.
• Xue Qingyi quickly becomes weak and realizes that both he and Zhao Zhi have been poisoned. He secretly signals Zhu Yunzhen to escape and summon help.
• Luo Hong reveals that Zhu Yunzhen is already cooperating with him. She moves to his side instead of fleeing, devastating Xue Qingyi.
• Believing both officials are helpless, Luo Hong approaches Xue Qingyi to taunt him.
• In a sudden reversal, Zhao Zhi rises and strikes Luo Hong with overwhelming force, sending him crashing across the room. This reveals that Zhao has either resisted or concealed the effects of the poison.

Character Developments

• Luo Hong is shown to be highly calculating, cautious, and cruel. He carefully prepares an ambush, poisons his enemies, manipulates Zhu Yunzhen, and takes pleasure in Xue Qingyi’s apparent defeat.
• Xue Qingyi demonstrates practical judgment and loyalty to his subordinates. Even while poisoned, he tries to protect Zhu Yunzhen by signaling for her to escape. His confidence collapses when he realizes she has betrayed him.
• Zhu Yunzhen is revealed to have an existing connection or allegiance to Luo Hong. Her decision to stand beside him creates a sharp contrast with her earlier role as Xue’s trusted subordinate. Her expression remains complicated, suggesting possible conflict or mixed feelings.
• Zhao Zhi appears calm and unreadable throughout the encounter. His final attack shows that he is far more powerful—or far less affected by the poison—than Luo Hong anticipated.

Significant Themes

• Betrayal and misplaced trust: Xue Qingyi trusts Zhu Yunzhen, only to discover that she has sided with his enemy.
• Cunning versus strength: Luo Hong relies on preparation, poison, and psychological manipulation, while Zhao Zhi ultimately answers with overwhelming physical power.
• Appearances and hidden intentions: The harmless-looking tea conceals a deadly poison, and Zhao’s quiet weakness may have been deceptive.
• Control and vulnerability: Luo Hong believes he has complete control after disabling his opponents, but his confidence leaves him vulnerable to Zhao’s unexpected counterattack.
• Loyalty under pressure: Xue’s attempt to save Zhu contrasts with Zhu’s ambiguous loyalty and Luo Hong’s manipulative treatment of her.

Character Interactions

• Xue Qingyi and Zhao Zhi cooperate uneasily but respectfully while waiting for Luo Hong.
• Xue attempts to protect Zhu Yunzhen by secretly ordering her to flee.
• Luo Hong directly challenges Xue, emphasizing their long-standing pursuit and his confidence in his own schemes.
• Luo Hong treats Zhu Yunzhen with apparent intimacy, stroking her cheek and praising her, while using her allegiance to psychologically crush Xue.
• The chapter ends with Zhao Zhi abruptly reversing the power dynamic by striking Luo Hong, leaving the true extent of Zhao’s abilities and the poison’s effect unresolved.

Chapter Summary: “A Whore and a Dog”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Zhi uses the Primordial Unity True Art to instantly detect and expel the powerful poison “Eroding Spring Wind,” which would normally trouble even Astral Condensation Realm martial artists.
• Rather than immediately pursuing Luo Hong, Zhao Zhi waits for the movement-technique expert to approach, intending to neutralize his advantage.
• Zhao Zhi stabilizes the poisoned Constable Xue Qingyi, then finds Luo Hong gravely injured from his earlier palm strike. Luo’s bones, tendons, and internal organs are shattered, leaving him near death.
• Zhu Yunzhen begs Zhao Zhi to spare Luo Hong and offers to kill herself in exchange. Zhao Zhi refuses her terms and instead forces her hand to drive a saber through Luo Hong’s throat, killing him.
• Enraged, Zhu Yunzhen attempts to attack Zhao Zhi, but he easily restrains her. He condemns her for protecting Luo Hong and insults their relationship, portraying them as criminals who have prospered through the deaths of others.
• Zhu Yunzhen loses consciousness from rage and injury. Zhao Zhi then snaps her neck, killing her as well.
• Zhao Zhi purges the poison from Xue Qingyi and leaves the handling of Zhu Yunzhen’s body to him, while taking Luo Hong’s corpse back to the Profound Nether Platform.
• A day later, Zhao Zhi submits Luo Hong’s corpse and completes the C-grade mission. After proving that he has reached the Meridian Opening Realm, he is promoted from Trainee Profound Nether Guard to Junior Banner Officer.
• Because he has only recently joined the organization, Zhao Zhi postpones choosing a Banner Commander to follow.

Character Developments

• Zhao Zhi: Demonstrates the defensive and purifying power of his Primordial Unity Inner Force, as well as patience, tactical awareness, ruthlessness, and an uncompromising attitude toward criminals and betrayal. His actions also reveal a cruelly provocative side, as he deliberately torments Zhu Yunzhen before killing her. His rapid promotion confirms his growing status and ability.
• Luo Hong: Reduced from a feared and elusive bandit to a helpless, mortally wounded criminal. His reliance on Zhu Yunzhen’s protection is exposed, but he is ultimately killed before receiving any mercy.
• Zhu Yunzhen: Her public image as a heroic, upright constable is shattered. Her secret alliance with Luo Hong, including helping him evade justice and poisoning Zhao Zhi, is revealed. Her devotion to Luo Hong becomes desperate and self-destructive, ending in her death.
• Xue Qingyi: Suffers emotionally from discovering that Zhu Yunzhen, whom he treated as a disciple, was corrupt. Though physically saved by Zhao Zhi, he becomes withdrawn and emotionally devastated.
• Zhao Zhi’s organization: Recognizes his Meridian Opening Realm cultivation and rewards his successful mission with a significant promotion.

Significant Themes

• Justice versus personal loyalty: Zhu Yunzhen places romantic loyalty above law and duty, while Zhao Zhi enforces justice without allowing personal appeals to interfere.
• Corruption beneath appearances: Zhu Yunzhen’s respectable identity masks her role in aiding a murderous bandit, emphasizing the danger of judging people by reputation.
• Ruthlessness and retribution: Zhao Zhi believes criminals who manipulate others and repeatedly evade justice deserve no mercy. His harsh words and executions reflect an extreme form of punitive justice.
• Love as obsession and ruin: Zhu Yunzhen’s attachment to Luo Hong leads her to betrayal, self-sacrifice, and death. Xue Qingyi’s reaction suggests another form of emotional loss: trust turning into grief.
• Advancement through ability: Zhao Zhi’s cultivation and mission success allow him to rise rapidly through the Profound Nether Platform, reinforcing the importance of strength and proven results.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Zhi and Zhu Yunzhen: Their confrontation shifts from negotiation to psychological and physical domination. Her attempt to trade her life for Luo Hong’s fails, and Zhao Zhi intentionally destroys her emotional resolve before killing her.
• Zhao Zhi and Luo Hong: Zhao Zhi decisively defeats and executes the bandit, refusing to let his movement skills or past crimes go unpunished.
• Zhao Zhi and Xue Qingyi: Zhao Zhi saves Xue Qingyi from the poison and treats him with restrained respect, while Xue Qingyi responds with subdued gratitude and grief over Zhu Yunzhen’s betrayal.
• Zhu Yunzhen and Luo Hong: Their relationship is portrayed as a destructive alliance built on criminal protection and shared dependence rather than noble love.

Chapter Summary: “Poison Curse”

Key Plot Points and Events

• In a hidden mountain cave in Jing Prefecture, an emaciated old man attempts to refine or cultivate a powerful poison-related technique but fails, vomiting corrosive black blood.
• His disciple, Xue Lihuai, reports that their junior brother, Lu Guangyi, has been killed by Zhao Zhi, a constable from Qingfeng County.
• The old man is furious not out of grief, but because Lu Guangyi was a valuable “medicine” or experimental subject whose death disrupted his plans.
• Zhao Zhi has since gone to the Profound Nether Platform and may have joined it. The old man recognizes that the organization is dangerous, but believes Zhao is still low-ranking and therefore vulnerable.
• The old man orders Xue Lihuai to find their second senior brother, kill Zhao Zhi, and recover the Meridian Opening Pill Zhao possesses.
• He offers to remove the poison curse placed on Xue Lihuai and his second senior brother if they succeed.
  At the Profound Nether Platform:
• Tang Chuxue is informed by Yan Qing that Zhao Zhi has rapidly advanced to the rank of Junior Banner Officer.
• Zhao has also learned the True Martial Mountain-Suppressing Technique.
• Yan Qing suggests that Tang Chuxue recruit Zhao under her command. Tang agrees in principle but notes that Zhao must choose whether to accept.
• Tang becomes intrigued by Zhao’s cultivation technique because it may be connected to the legendary True Martial Inheritance.

Character Developments

• The old man: Revealed as a cruel, manipulative master who treats disciples as tools, medicines, or experimental materials. His rage over Lu Guangyi’s death is driven by the loss of an asset, not affection. He is also cautious enough to fear the Profound Nether Platform, though his greed and vengeance overcome that caution.
• Xue Lihuai: Outwardly obedient, but inwardly hates his master and wishes to kill him. His compliance is forced by the poison curse placed on him and his fellow disciples. The promise of freedom gives him a strong motive to pursue Zhao.
• Tang Chuxue: Maintains her calm and distant demeanor but shows growing interest in Zhao after learning of his rapid promotion and mastery of the True Martial Mountain-Suppressing Technique. Her curiosity shifts toward the possibility that he may be linked to the True Martial Inheritance.
• Yan Qing: Acts as the messenger and shows enthusiasm about Zhao’s advancement. She strongly believes Zhao will accept Tang Chuxue’s offer.

Significant Themes

• Control through coercion: The poison curse allows the old man to dominate his disciples, creating forced loyalty and concealed resentment.
• Ambition and exploitation: The old man views people as resources for cultivation and medicine, while Zhao’s advancement attracts attention from both allies and enemies.
• Power and institutional protection: Zhao’s move from local constable to member of the Profound Nether Platform places him under the protection of a powerful state organization, complicating the old man’s revenge.
• Incomplete inheritance and martial legacy: The chapter emphasizes that the quality and completeness of a martial art are crucial. The True Martial Mountain-Suppressing Technique is associated with the legendary Zhang Zhenwu and the elusive True Martial Inheritance.
• Hidden motives: Characters conceal their true feelings—Xue Lihuai hides his hatred, the old man disguises greed as authority, and Tang Chuxue’s quiet interest hints at deeper intentions.

Character Interactions

• The old man and Xue Lihuai: The master interrogates Xue about Lu Guangyi’s death and commands him to assassinate Zhao. Their exchange exposes the master’s authority and Xue’s forced submission.
• Xue Lihuai and his absent fellow disciples: Xue’s thoughts reveal a shared burden: the poison curse binds the disciples to their master, though they secretly wish to overthrow him.
• Tang Chuxue and Yan Qing: Yan Qing enthusiastically brings news of Zhao’s advancement and proposes that Tang recruit him. Tang responds with restrained interest, leaving the decision to Zhao.
• Tang Chuxue and Zhao Zhi: They do not meet directly, but Zhao’s achievements make him the subject of Tang’s attention and potentially place him under her command.

Chapter Summary: “Joining”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yan Qing tells Zhao Zhi that Banner Commander Tang wishes to recruit him.
• She explains that Tang is the strongest of the thirty-two Banner Commanders at the Profound Nether Platform in Jing Prefecture and is qualified to become a Pacification Commissioner, though promotion is limited by the small number of available positions.
• Zhao Zhi considers the role of Junior Banner Officers. They can accept most ordinary missions but generally attach themselves to a Banner Commander to gain experience and merits.
• Although Zhao Zhi could gain Merit more quickly by exterminating bandits, corrupt families, and other criminals, he rejects this approach because it might turn him into a slaughtering machine and cause him to lose his moral direction.
• He asks about Tang’s leadership style, particularly whether she forces subordinate officers to participate in her missions. Yan Qing assures him that Tang respects their choices and allows them to accept independent missions.
• Zhao Zhi agrees to join Tang’s group.
• Yan Qing gives him the Meridian Opening Realm martial art Mountain-Splitting Savage Ox Technique, explaining that it suits his abundant inner qi and will greatly increase his strength.
• Yan Qing invites Zhao Zhi to join a C-grade mission requiring several Junior Banner Officers. He accepts immediately, saying that he trusts her, and they arrange to depart the following morning.
• After Yan Qing leaves, Zhao Zhi abandons his unsuccessful fishing attempt and begins studying the new martial art. He concludes that he should devote himself to cultivation rather than waste time on unrelated activities.

Character Developments

• Zhao Zhi: Demonstrates strategic thinking by carefully evaluating Tang before accepting the offer. He prioritizes ethical cultivation over gaining Merit through indiscriminate slaughter. His trust in Yan Qing grows, and he becomes more focused and disciplined about improving his martial arts.
• Yan Qing: Acts as Zhao Zhi’s guide and sponsor within the Profound Nether Platform. She speaks highly of Tang, provides Zhao Zhi with a valuable martial art, and invites him on his first mission with the group.
• Banner Commander Tang: Though she does not appear directly, she is established as powerful, respected, gentle, and considerate toward her subordinates. Her willingness to let Junior Banner Officers choose their own missions makes her an attractive leader.

Significant Themes

• Moral restraint versus power: Zhao Zhi refuses to pursue Merit through mass killings, believing that strength gained by abandoning one’s conscience would corrupt him.
• The proper martial path: He believes martial arts should be pursued freely and in accordance with one’s heart, not through endless violence or blind ambition.
• Trust and cooperation: Zhao Zhi’s decision to join Tang’s faction reflects the importance of reliable alliances within the Profound Nether Platform.
• Discipline and self-improvement: The chapter ends with Zhao Zhi choosing cultivation over leisure, reinforcing his dedication to continual progress.

Character Interactions

• Yan Qing persuades Zhao Zhi to join Tang by describing Tang’s strength and respectful treatment of subordinates.
• Zhao Zhi questions Yan Qing to ensure that joining Tang will not restrict his independence.
• Yan Qing rewards his decision with a suitable martial arts manual and includes him in an upcoming mission.
• Zhao Zhi’s immediate acceptance of Yan Qing’s invitation shows his confidence in her judgment and strengthens their working relationship.

Summary: “Slaying the Remnants of the Blood Snake Cult”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Zhi receives the details of a C-grade mission to eliminate the surviving members of the Blood Snake Cult, an evil organization whose martial artists can control venomous snakes.
• Although the cult’s highest-ranking members—including its Sky-Imperial Realm leader and Mountain-Shaking Realm hall masters—were killed during a three-year campaign led by the Cui Family, the Governor’s Office, and the Profound Nether Platform, several remnants remain active.
• The cult once controlled much of Jing Prefecture, but after one of its elders killed a direct descendant of the powerful Cui Family, the family launched a devastating retaliation.
• Yan Qing explains that seven remnants have been located on Da’nan Mountain. All are in the Meridian Opening Realm, with the strongest at Greater Meridian Opening. Bai Tai is assigned to deal with that opponent.
• Wei Bufan reports that the remnants are hiding in a ruined Mountain God temple. He gives Yan Qing a Jadefall Seed, allowing Jadefall Beasts to relay updated information about the enemy’s movements.
• The group—Zhao Zhi, Yan Qing, Bai Tai, Chen Xiaofan, and Liu Xiaoyun—abandons its horses and quietly climbs Da’nan Mountain to launch a surprise attack before the cultists can escape.
• The chapter ends as Yan Qing identifies the ruined temple and orders the team to advance.

Character Developments

• Zhao Zhi: Learns more about the Blood Snake Cult and joins the mission despite being only at the Initial Meridian Opening Realm. He also remains focused on accumulating Merit; his total has reached 823, still short of the 1,000 needed to improve his martial arts.
• Yan Qing: Acts as the mission leader, demonstrating strong connections, effective intelligence-gathering, and confidence in organizing the attack. Her close relationship with Wei Bufan is also apparent.
• Bai Tai: Established as the strongest member of the team, possessing Perfected Meridian Unblocking cultivation and serving as the group’s main combatant against the strongest cult remnant.
• Wei Bufan: Revealed to be a remarkably powerful young martial artist already in the Astral Condensation Realm. His exceptional movement technique and support through the Jadefall Seed highlight his value, though he does not join the mission.
• Chen Xiaofan and Liu Xiaoyun: Identified as Lesser Meridian Opening practitioners and members of the assault team.
• The Blood Snake Cult remnants: Presented as weakened but still dangerous fugitives, relying on secrecy, mobility, and possibly their ability to control venomous snakes.

Significant Themes

• The collapse of former power: The Blood Snake Cult’s fall shows how quickly a once-dominant organization can be destroyed after provoking a powerful aristocratic clan.
• The persistence of evil: Despite the destruction of its leadership, the cult continues to survive through scattered remnants, reinforcing the idea that eliminating an organization requires more than defeating its strongest members.
• Power and influence: The Cui Family’s authority extends from martial strength into the imperial government and law-enforcement institutions, illustrating the influence of elite clans.
• Merit and advancement: Zhao Zhi’s steady accumulation of Merit provides a parallel progression system, emphasizing patience and gradual improvement.
• Strategy over brute force: The mission depends on intelligence, secrecy, speed, and coordination rather than overwhelming numbers.

Character Interactions

• Yan Qing and Zhao Zhi discuss the mission and the danger posed by the cult remnants.
• Yan Qing assigns Bai Tai the strongest enemy, recognizing his superior cultivation.
• Wei Bufan affectionately calls Yan Qing “Big Sister Yan,” offers intelligence, and gives her the Jadefall Seed. Yan Qing thanks him but refuses his assistance, joking that his participation would take away the mission reward.
• Wei Bufan and Yan Qing display mutual trust and familiarity, while Bai Tai’s presence reassures Wei Bufan that the team is adequately protected.
• Yan Qing directs the entire group as they approach the Mountain God temple, emphasizing a coordinated surprise assault.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Seven surviving members of the Blood Snake Cult gather in an abandoned Mountain God Temple. Three years earlier, the cult had been nearly destroyed by the Cui Family, the Governor’s Office, and the Profound Nether Platform. To avoid detection, the survivors had removed their identifying Blood Serpent Tattoos, leaving burn-like scars.
• Their leader, Han Zhou, has promised to restore the Blood Snake Cult, but the group has spent a month hiding without securing a permanent base. Several members, including Zhou Zuoqiu and a fat cultist, begin questioning his leadership and threaten to leave.
• Han Zhou reveals that he is waiting for someone. Before he can explain, he senses approaching figures and realizes the Blood Serpent connected to him has been killed.
• Zhao Zhi, Yan Qing, Bai Tai, and two other Profound Nether Platform members enter the temple and demand the Blood Snake Cult surrender.
• Han Zhou refuses and orders his followers to surround the newcomers. The cultists attempt to exploit their numerical advantage, with Han Zhou targeting Bai Tai while the others attack the remaining Profound Nether Guards.
• Han Zhou uses a strange sound-based attack that briefly disorients the Profound Nether group, then clashes with Bai Tai. However, Bai Tai’s superior strength overwhelms him, forcing Han Zhou to call on Zhou Zuoqiu for assistance.
• While Han Zhou and Zhou Zuoqiu engage Bai Tai, Zhao Zhi quickly defeats another Blood Snake Cult member, crushing his arm and then killing him with a palm strike.
• The chapter ends with Zhao Zhi receiving a system notification: “You saved a martial artist walking the path of heretical demons, Merit +666.”

Character Developments

• Han Zhou is established as the ambitious but pressured leader of the surviving Blood Snake Cult members. He is determined to rebuild the cult, yet his authority is weakening because he has failed to deliver immediate results. His unusual scar and ability to sense the Blood Serpent suggest he possesses mysterious powers or a special connection to the cult.
• Zhou Zuoqiu is skeptical and impatient, openly challenging Han Zhou’s promises. Despite his doubts, he remains loyal enough to assist Han Zhou in battle.
• Bai Tai demonstrates overwhelming physical strength and combat experience. Though briefly affected by Han Zhou’s sound attack, he quickly recovers and proves superior to Han Zhou in direct combat.
• Zhao Zhi displays decisive brutality and exceptional martial ability, defeating an enemy almost instantly. His actions also trigger the unusual merit reward, implying that the system considers rescuing or influencing enemies—even heretical ones—morally significant.
• The other Blood Snake Cult members are shown to be capable fighters, but they are less individually developed and rely on group tactics against the Profound Nether Platform.

Significant Themes

• Survival and persecution: The Blood Snake Cult’s remnants live in hiding after their organization’s destruction, emphasizing the consequences of political and sectarian extermination.
• Loyalty versus self-preservation: The cult members must choose between trusting Han Zhou’s vision and abandoning the dangerous effort to rebuild the cult.
• Power and hierarchy: The confrontation highlights the difference between realms of martial cultivation, as Bai Tai’s Perfected Meridian Opening Realm gives him a decisive advantage over Han Zhou.
• Redemption and moral ambiguity: Zhao Zhi earns merit for “saving” a member of an evil or heretical faction, suggesting that the story’s moral system may value individual lives independently of factional allegiance.
• Rebuilding after destruction: Han Zhou’s goal of restoring the Blood Snake Cult introduces a broader conflict that may extend beyond this immediate battle.

Character Interactions

• Zhou Zuoqiu and the fat cultist pressure Han Zhou for results, revealing internal distrust within the Blood Snake Cult.
• Han Zhou attempts to command the group confidently, but his concern about Bai Tai shows that he recognizes the danger posed by the Profound Nether Platform.
• Yan Qing directly confronts Han Zhou and condemns the Blood Snake Cult as heretical demons, establishing the hostility between the two sides.
• Han Zhou and Zhou Zuoqiu coordinate against Bai Tai after Han Zhou realizes he cannot defeat him alone.
• Zhao Zhi and the Blood Snake Cult member have only a brief encounter, but Zhao’s overwhelming attack reinforces the disparity between the combatants and triggers the chapter’s merit-system reward.

Chapter Summary: “Instant Kill”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Zhi receives 666 Merit for killing an Entry-Level Meridian Opening Blood Snake Cult follower, realizing that Merit depends not only on cultivation level but also on the evil deeds committed by the victim.
• His sudden kill shocks both allies and enemies, especially Yan Qing, who had underestimated his strength after learning he had only recently entered the Meridian Opening Realm.
• The Blood Snake Cult’s leader, Han Zhou, recognizes that Zhao Zhi’s performance is damaging his side’s morale. He orders Fatty Yuan to kill Zhao Zhi while Han Zhou and Zhou Zuoqiu continue fighting Bai Tai.
• Han Zhou summons numerous poisonous Blood Venom Snakes to overwhelm Zhao Zhi. Fatty Yuan follows behind them, believing the snakes will provide an opening for him to strike.
• Zhao Zhi uses the accumulated Merit to upgrade the True Martial Mountain-Suppressing Technique to Minor Mastery. The upgrade opens all eight of his Extraordinary Meridians, advancing him to Minor Meridian Mastery.
• With his improved cultivation, Zhao Zhi can now use the Incomplete Little Netherworld Sword without its former strain on his meridians. He effortlessly kills seven or eight Blood Venom Snakes with single strikes, gaining additional Merit.
• Fatty Yuan attempts to flee, but Zhao Zhi instantly appears before him and kills him with the Diamond Table-Slamming Palm, crushing both his arms and skull. The death grants Zhao Zhi an exceptionally large 932 Merit.
• Zhao Zhi then attacks the remaining Blood Snake Cult members. Within five breaths, only Han Zhou and Zhou Zuoqiu remain alive.
• Han Zhou is horrified by Zhao Zhi’s seemingly impossible growth, watching him rise from Entry-Level Meridian Opening to a level comparable to Perfected Meridian Unblocking within moments.

Character Developments

• Zhao Zhi demonstrates overwhelming combat ability and an unusual capacity to grow stronger during battle. His Merit system allows him to rapidly improve his cultivation, and his advancement to Minor Meridian Mastery removes the limitations on his sword technique.
• Yan Qing gains a new respect for Zhao Zhi after witnessing him instantly kill a powerful enemy.
• Han Zhou shifts from confidence to alarm as his carefully planned advantage collapses. He becomes increasingly aware that Zhao Zhi is the decisive threat.
• Fatty Yuan is portrayed as cruel, ambitious, and deeply invested in restoring the Blood Snake Cult because he enjoys the benefits it provides. His confidence turns to panic when Zhao Zhi destroys the snakes and pursues him.
• Bai Tai continues holding off Han Zhou and Zhou Zuoqiu, allowing Zhao Zhi to turn the battle against the other cultists.

Significant Themes

• Merit and moral judgment: Merit reflects the severity of a person’s crimes more than their cultivation level, emphasizing that evil deeds carry spiritual or supernatural weight.
• Rapid growth and hidden potential: Zhao Zhi’s ability to improve mid-battle makes him an unpredictable force and highlights the extraordinary nature of his Merit-based cultivation.
• Morale and battlefield momentum: Han Zhou understands that one spectacular defeat can destabilize an entire side, while Zhao Zhi’s effortless victories rapidly destroy the cultists’ confidence.
• Justice versus corruption: Zhao Zhi’s killings are framed as stopping criminals from continuing their atrocities, contrasting with the Blood Snake Cult’s cruelty and exploitation.
• Overwhelming power: The chapter emphasizes the gap between ordinary martial development and Zhao Zhi’s nearly instantaneous advancement.

Character Interactions

• Yan Qing observes Zhao Zhi’s sudden display of strength with surprise and admiration.
• Han Zhou orders Fatty Yuan to eliminate Zhao Zhi while coordinating with Zhou Zuoqiu against Bai Tai.
• Fatty Yuan relies on Han Zhou’s summoned Blood Venom Snakes, but Zhao Zhi destroys both the snakes and Fatty Yuan’s confidence.
• Zhao Zhi’s confrontation with Fatty Yuan ends in a brutal one-sided execution.
• Han Zhou and Zhou Zuoqiu are left isolated and shaken after Zhao Zhi eliminates the other cultists, with Han Zhou particularly disturbed by Zhao Zhi’s rapid, inexplicable advancement.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Zhi decisively kills Blood Snake Sect remnant Zhou Zuoqiu with a powerful palm strike.
• Han Zhou, already injured from fighting Bai Tai, realizes that Zhao Zhi is far stronger than the Profound Nether Platform’s usual mission participants. He anxiously waits for an ally to arrive.
• Zhao Zhi’s realm rapidly advances from initial to perfected Meridian Unblocking after activating the True Martial Mountain-Suppressing Technique. He pauses briefly to stabilize his surging inner energy before finishing Han Zhou.
• A huge martial artist, Chu Jinque, suddenly arrives and attacks Zhao Zhi. His first punch sends Zhao Zhi crashing into the ruined altar.
• Chu Jinque then defeats Bai Tai in a direct fist clash, heavily injuring him and shifting the battle dramatically in the Blood Snake Sect remnants’ favor.
• Han Zhou recognizes Chu Jinque as an ally and explains that the Profound Nether Guards killed the other Blood Snake Sect members.
• Chu Jinque orders that Yan Qing and the remaining Profound Nether Guards be killed. Bai Tai tells Yan Qing to flee while he tries to delay Chu Jinque.
• Zhao Zhi emerges from the rubble unharmed and confronts Chu Jinque directly.
• Zhao Zhi spends 800 Merit to raise the newly acquired Mountain-Splitting Savage Ox Technique to Beginner level.
• In the climactic exchange, Zhao Zhi combines the technique with his powerful True Martial inner energy. His punch overwhelms Chu Jinque, shattering the bones in Chu’s arm and blasting him through the temple wall.

Character Developments

• Zhao Zhi demonstrates a major increase in strength, advancing his cultivation and successfully controlling the resulting surge of inner energy. His calmness and confidence grow as he faces increasingly powerful enemies.
• Han Zhou shifts from confidence to fear after witnessing Zhao Zhi’s strength, then regains hope when Chu Jinque arrives. He is revealed to have deliberately stayed behind while waiting for Chu’s support.
• Bai Tai proves brave but is badly injured by Chu Jinque. Despite his wounds, he attempts to protect Yan Qing by ordering her to escape.
• Yan Qing reacts strongly to Zhao Zhi and Bai Tai’s injuries, showing concern for her companions and alarm at the sudden reversal.
• Chu Jinque is introduced as a physically imposing and extremely powerful martial artist. His initial attacks establish him as a serious threat, but his arrogance is undermined when Zhao Zhi defeats him in a single decisive clash.

Significant Themes

• Power and sudden reversal: The battle changes several times, showing how quickly superior strength can overturn an apparently certain victory.
• Controlled advancement: Zhao Zhi’s decision to stabilize his newly increased inner energy before attacking reflects discipline and caution rather than reckless pursuit of Merit.
• Technique and cultivation synergy: Zhao Zhi’s victory comes from combining his expansive True Martial Mountain-Suppressing inner energy with the newly unlocked Mountain-Splitting Savage Ox Technique.
• Courage and protection: Bai Tai’s willingness to hold off Chu Jinque so Yan Qing can escape highlights loyalty and self-sacrifice.
• Confidence versus overconfidence: Chu Jinque initially dominates the battlefield and assumes victory, but his certainty collapses when Zhao Zhi reveals his improved strength.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Zhi kills Zhou Zuoqiu and intimidates Han Zhou through his overwhelming power.
• Zhao Zhi and Bai Tai fight separately but are both initially defeated by Chu Jinque.
• Han Zhou welcomes Chu Jinque and urges him to eliminate the Profound Nether Guards.
• Chu Jinque targets Bai Tai, while Bai Tai tries to protect Yan Qing.
• Zhao Zhi interrupts the execution attempt, confronts Chu Jinque, and defeats him in a direct fist-to-fist battle.