Chapter Summaries

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• After emerging from seclusion, Xiao Yan spends several days in the Heavenly Star Mountains with Mu Qingluan instead of immediately leaving for the Pill Region.
• Wind Venerable visits Xiao Yan and Mu Qingluan in a peach-blossom grove, teasing Mu Qingluan about her relationship with Xiao Yan. Xiao Yan defends her from the teasing.
• Wind Venerable warns Xiao Yan that news of Thunder Venerable’s death has spread throughout the continent. Because Xiao Yan, publicly known only as a newly advanced Battle Ancestor, defeated a Battle Venerable, many factions may grow suspicious, envious, or hostile toward him.
• Realizing that he needs the protection of a powerful organization, Xiao Yan decides to travel to the Pill Tower with Little Fairy Doctor and Ziyan.
• Mu Qingluan reacts emotionally to Xiao Yan’s departure. Their farewell is tearful, while Ziyan later shows her own jealousy and irritation over Xiao Yan spending the night with Qingluan.
• Wind Venerable opens a spatial gate using an ancient jade token. Xiao Yan, Little Fairy Doctor, and Ziyan leave Starfall Pavilion and travel through official spatial routes toward Saint Pill City.
• At Azure Spirit City, they wait for the spatial wormhole to Saint Pill City to open. Ziyan drags Xiao Yan and Little Fairy Doctor to a restaurant, giving the group a brief, lighter interlude before continuing their journey.
• Meanwhile, Feng Qing’er travels through another spatial route with members of the Heavenly Demon Phoenix Clan. She recognizes a familiar aura, apparently sensing Xiao Yan and his companions passing nearby.
• Feng Qing’er has reported seeing a young Void Ancient Dragon—clearly Ziyan—whose strength far exceeds her apparent cultivation. The Phoenix Clan is searching for this dragon, believing she may be connected to a Dragon King.
• The red-robed elder leading the search dismisses the Void Ancient Dragon Clan’s internal conflict but takes the potential threat seriously. Unbeknownst to him, his group passes extremely close to Xiao Yan and the others without finding them.

Character Developments

• Xiao Yan: Becomes more cautious and politically aware after learning that his victory over Thunder Venerable has made him a target of attention. He chooses to seek the Pill Tower’s protection and support. He also shows greater emotional responsibility by comforting Mu Qingluan and shielding her from Wind Venerable’s teasing.
• Mu Qingluan: Fully acknowledges her romantic attachment to Xiao Yan. Her normally lively and confident nature gives way to shyness around her master, followed by intense sadness when Xiao Yan departs.
• Little Fairy Doctor: Remains calm and accepting of Xiao Yan’s relationship with Mu Qingluan, suggesting she expected it. Her gentle care for Xiao Yan during the farewell hints at subtle, possibly complicated feelings.
• Ziyan: Reacts possessively and comically to Xiao Yan’s relationship with Qingluan, attacking him before eventually calming down. She remains energetic and food-loving, helping lighten the mood during the journey. Her identity as a powerful young Void Ancient Dragon also becomes the focus of the Heavenly Demon Phoenix Clan’s search.
• Wind Venerable: Acts as a protective elder and mentor. He recognizes the danger surrounding Xiao Yan, provides practical advice, arranges transportation, and deliberately eases the awkwardness surrounding Xiao Yan’s departure.
• Feng Qing’er: Suffers a loss of status within the Wind-Thunder Pavilion and the Heavenly Demon Phoenix Clan after her former backing weakens. Rather than surrendering, she seeks to gain influence by reporting Ziyan’s identity and strength. Her humiliation fuels a determination to regain power and status.
• Heavenly Demon Phoenix elders: Their search reveals the clan’s arrogance and territorial ambitions, especially regarding the Void Ancient Dragon Clan and control of the Beast Domain.

Significant Themes

• The consequences of power: Xiao Yan’s victory brings not only prestige but also danger, forcing him to consider political protection rather than relying solely on personal strength.
• Parting and emotional bonds: The farewell between Xiao Yan and Mu Qingluan emphasizes the pain of separation, while the reactions of Ziyan and Little Fairy Doctor reveal the complicated relationships surrounding him.
• Protection through alliances: Xiao Yan’s decision to approach the Pill Tower reflects the importance of belonging to a powerful faction in a hostile cultivation world.
• Rivalry between powerful clans: The Heavenly Demon Phoenix Clan’s pursuit of Ziyan introduces the larger conflict between the Phoenixes and the Void Ancient Dragons.
• Humiliation and ambition: Feng Qing’er’s mistreatment strengthens her resolve to rise within her clan, showing how oppression can create new rivals.
• Arrogance versus genuine danger: The red-robed elder boasts about Phoenix supremacy, yet his concern over Ziyan’s bloodline shows that the clan recognizes the serious threat posed by the Void Ancient Dragons.

Important Character Interactions

• Wind Venerable teases Mu Qingluan about Xiao Yan, while Xiao Yan steps in to defend her.
• Mu Qingluan clings to Xiao Yan and begs him not to leave; he promises to return.
• Ziyan angrily confronts Xiao Yan over his relationship with Qingluan, then later resumes her playful, appetite-driven behavior.
• Little Fairy Doctor calmly supports the group while showing Xiao Yan quiet, intimate care during the farewell.
• Wind Venerable notices the resemblance between Xiao Yan and his master, Yao Chen, particularly in their awkward romantic situations.
• Feng Qing’er is pressured by the Phoenix elders and resents their treatment, but she remains determined to use her knowledge of Ziyan to improve her standing.
• Xiao Yan’s party and Feng Qing’er’s search party pass near each other in the spatial routes, creating dramatic irony as the Phoenix Clan narrowly misses its target.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Yan, Xiao Yi Xian, and Ziyan arrive at Saint Pill City through one of its enormous spatial wormholes. The wormhole is so powerful that Xiao Yan cannot perceive anything during the final passage, leading him to realize that its creator is far beyond his current strength.
• They emerge in one of Saint Pill City’s massive spatial plazas, which is large enough to dwarf a small city and constantly receives and sends out hundreds of spatial ships.
• After landing, Xiao Yan shrinks their ship and stores it away, since flying vehicles are restricted in the city proper.
• Xiao Yan jokingly deceives Ziyan by claiming he visited Saint Pill City in a previous life. Xiao Yi Xian exposes the lie, prompting Ziyan to attack him playfully. Their quarrel provides comic relief and shows their familiar, affectionate dynamic.
• Xiao Yan explains that their first objective is to enter the Pill Tower. Before doing so, he intends to take an alchemist badge examination, preferably one for a Seventh-Grade or higher alchemist.
• The group enters a restaurant to gather information. Ziyan orders nearly every dish, revealing her enormous appetite and carefree personality.
• The waiter informs them that Cao Ying, the eldest daughter of the Cao Clan, is taking the Seventh-Grade Alchemist examination that very day. A Pill Tower giant has promised to accept her as a disciple if she passes.
• Xiao Yan decides to attend Cao Ying’s examination ceremony, believing the appearance of a Pill Tower giant may present an important opportunity for him. He also carries a letter that may help him take advantage of the meeting.
• Xiao Yan rewards the waiter with a low-level cultivation pill and asks him to find a guide. The waiter searches the streets and finds a petite, cloaked girl who appears to be heading toward the ceremony.
• When the waiter attempts to touch her, the seemingly timid girl suddenly releases terrifying power and throws him down. She then timidly agrees to guide them.
• The waiter returns with the girl, and Xiao Yan is shocked to discover that she is actually a Dou Emperor. The chapter ends with his bewildered question about how the waiter managed to bring back such a powerful person.

2. Character Developments

• Xiao Yan: Demonstrates caution and growing awareness of the immense powers connected to Saint Pill City. He remains playful and mischievous with Ziyan but quickly returns to practical goals, focusing on entering the Pill Tower and obtaining an alchemist badge. His interest in meeting a Pill Tower giant shows his ambition and strategic thinking.
• Xiao Yi Xian: Acts as the calm and sensible member of the group. She exposes Xiao Yan’s deception, maintains control during the group’s joking, and naturally stays close to him. Her questions help redirect the group toward their actual objectives.
• Ziyan: Displays her childish, energetic, and food-loving nature. She is easily fooled by Xiao Yan, reacts violently but humorously when teased, and eagerly eats at the restaurant. Despite her apparent immaturity, her strength remains formidable.
• The waiter: Initially appears to be an ordinary Da Dou Shi, but proves observant and eager to serve wealthy guests. He is overwhelmed by Xiao Yan’s reward and enthusiastically spreads information about Cao Ying. His attempt to find a guide leads unexpectedly to the discovery of a hidden Dou Emperor.
• The cloaked girl: Is introduced as shy, timid, and easily startled, yet possesses overwhelming strength. Her contrast between outward nervousness and terrifying power creates the chapter’s cliffhanger and suggests she may be an important character.

3. Significant Themes

• The vastness and hierarchy of the Dou Qi world: Saint Pill City’s enormous spatial network and the strength of its wormholes emphasize how much greater the world is than Xiao Yan’s earlier surroundings.
• Ambition and opportunity: Xiao Yan sees the ceremony not merely as an event but as a chance to meet a Pill Tower giant and advance his own path as an alchemist.
• Appearances versus reality: Xiao Yan pretends to possess knowledge from a previous life, while the cloaked girl appears harmless despite being a Dou Emperor. The chapter repeatedly contrasts outward impressions with true ability.
• The passage of time and changing status: Xiao Yan’s nostalgia over the waiter’s Da Dou Shi cultivation reflects how dramatically his own perspective and strength have changed.
• Friendship and comic camaraderie: The playful conflict between Xiao Yan and Ziyan, moderated by Xiao Yi Xian, highlights their close relationships and keeps the arrival in Saint Pill City lighthearted.
• Power and social standing: The five great families and the Pill Tower giants are presented as dominant forces, showing the political and alchemical hierarchy Xiao Yan must navigate.

4. Character Interactions

• Xiao Yan teases Ziyan about having visited Saint Pill City in a past life, and Xiao Yi Xian corrects him. Ziyan responds by attacking him playfully, reinforcing their combative but affectionate bond.
• Xiao Yi Xian and Xiao Yan discuss their plans to enter the Pill Tower, while Ziyan repeatedly mocks Xiao Yan whenever he lacks information.
• At the restaurant, Ziyan’s extravagant ordering contrasts with Xiao Yan’s practical questioning of the waiter.
• Xiao Yan treats the waiter generously by giving him a cultivation pill, demonstrating both his wealth and his awareness of the gap between their levels.
• The waiter excitedly explains Cao Ying’s importance and unintentionally persuades Xiao Yan to attend the ceremony.
• The waiter’s encounter with the cloaked girl turns from a routine request into a frightening display of power, setting up the final mystery and bringing the unexpected Dou Emperor directly into Xiao Yan’s group.

Chapter Summary: “Dan Chen, the Young Girl”

Key Plot Points and Events

• A waiter accidentally brings a mysterious, petite girl to Xiao Yan’s private room. When Xiao Yan identifies her as a One-Star Dou Emperor, the waiter becomes terrified and flees.
• Xiao Yan realizes the girl is likely from a powerful faction. He senses that she is being secretly protected by Granny Lan, a Seven-Star Battle Ancestor, who is watching from several miles away.
• Wanting directions to the alchemist assessment, Xiao Yan politely asks the shy girl to guide him and his companions. He offers her a Sixth-Grade Pill as payment.
• Xiao Yan’s attempt to persuade her is mocked by Zi Yan, who compares him to a suspicious adult trying to lure a child with candy. Xiao Yi Xian also becomes briefly suspicious when Xiao Yan stares toward the girl’s chest.
• Xiao Yan clarifies that he was examining the alchemist badge on her chest, which reveals her identity as a member of the Dan Clan, one of the Pill Tower’s Five Great Clans.
• The girl examines Xiao Yan’s pill and accurately identifies his exceptional alchemical skill, including his near-perfect flame control, medicinal fusion, and use of a Heavenly Flame.
• Her interest in alchemy overcomes her social anxiety, and she becomes more comfortable speaking with Xiao Yan.
• She introduces herself as Dan Chen and agrees to guide the group to the assessment site.
• Using Saint Pill City’s designated aerial routes, the group reaches the Pill Tower branch in less than an hour.
• Upon arrival, they discover that the Cao Clan has sealed the tower, allowing only people to leave because Cao Clan’s eldest young lady is refining pills inside.
• The situation amusingly resembles the fictional “arrogant young master blocking the entrance” scenario Xiao Yan had just described. Dan Chen innocently asks whether this is the moment when they should “slap them in the face,” leaving Xiao Yan speechless.

Character Developments

• Xiao Yan demonstrates caution, social tact, and strategic thinking. He recognizes Dan Chen’s importance and deliberately tries to build a relationship with her. His willingness to offer a valuable Sixth-Grade Pill shows that he values long-term connections over immediate profit.
• He also displays a playful side by joking about story conventions, though his humor becomes ironic when the exact situation he describes occurs moments later.
• Dan Chen is introduced as a remarkably young and powerful Dou Emperor, suggesting extraordinary talent and an influential background. Despite her strength, she is extremely shy and inexperienced in social situations.
• Her expertise in pill evaluation reveals that she is not merely a sheltered prodigy but also a highly perceptive alchemist. Once the subject turns to alchemy, her confidence and enthusiasm emerge.
• Zi Yan remains outspoken and mischievous, quickly accusing Xiao Yan of inappropriate behavior. Her teasing creates comic tension and exposes the familiarity between her and Xiao Yan.
• Xiao Yi Xian acts more cautiously and supports Zi Yan’s criticism before Xiao Yan explains himself.
• Granny Lan is shown as an anxious but devoted guardian, frustrated by the decision to let Dan Chen travel independently as a form of training.

Significant Themes

• Hidden strength beneath appearances: Dan Chen looks timid and vulnerable, yet possesses Dou Emperor-level cultivation and impressive alchemical insight.
• The depth of major factions: Dan Chen’s age, power, protection, and skill emphasize the extraordinary foundations of the Central Plains’ great clans.
• Social growth and independence: Dan Chen’s journey appears designed to help her overcome her shyness and learn to interact independently, despite the risks.
• Alchemy as a bridge between people: Xiao Yan and Dan Chen begin bonding through their shared interest and expertise in pill refinement.
• Comedy through misunderstanding: Xiao Yan’s inspection of Dan Chen’s clan badge is mistaken for inappropriate staring, while his joking description of a fictional confrontation immediately becomes reality.
• Status and influence: Access to the Pill Tower assessment is controlled by the powerful Cao Clan, setting up a likely conflict between Xiao Yan’s group and the established factions.

Important Character Interactions

• Xiao Yan reassures the frightened waiter and dismisses him, establishing control of the situation.
• He speaks gently to Dan Chen and offers her a pill in exchange for guidance, while Zi Yan mocks his approach.
• Dan Chen impresses Xiao Yan by accurately analyzing his pill and identifying the presence of his Heavenly Flame.
• Zi Yan and Xiao Yi Xian briefly confront Xiao Yan over his apparent staring, creating an embarrassing but humorous misunderstanding.
• Xiao Yan identifies Dan Chen’s Dan Clan badge, restoring his credibility and revealing her background.
• Dan Chen gradually warms to Xiao Yan after discovering his alchemical ability and agrees to help him.
• At the assessment site, Dan Chen innocently embraces Xiao Yan’s fictional “face-slapping” scenario just as the Cao Clan blocks their entry, ending the chapter on a comic cliffhanger.

Summary: “The Pill Tower’s Three Giants”

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Pill Tower’s Three Giants—Xuan Kongzi, Xuan Yi, and Tian Leizi—gather to witness Cao Ying’s Seventh-Grade Alchemist examination and the possible selection of a new apprentice.
• Xuan Kongzi becomes annoyed when the Cao Clan seals off the Stone Tower, forcing other alchemists to wait outside so Cao Ying can refine her pill without disturbance. Xuan Yi and Tian Leizi persuade him not to punish the Cao Clan immediately.
• Cao Xiu, a Sixth-Grade Alchemist, enforces the blockade under the direction of Song Qing, a Mid-Seventh-Grade Alchemist and disciple of one of the Pill Tower’s Great Elders. Song Qing is confident that Cao Ying will advance and hints at a possible marriage between himself and Cao Ying.
• Xiao Yan arrives and deliberately challenges Cao Xiu’s authority, loudly accusing the Cao Clan of abusing the Pill Tower’s name. When Cao Xiu orders the Cao Guards to attack him, Xiao Yan pretends to be frightened while secretly manipulating the situation.
• The Three Giants observe the confrontation and are puzzled by Xiao Yan’s act, since they can clearly tell that he is much stronger than Cao Xiu and Song Qing.
• Just as the Cao Guards are about to attack, Dan Chen appears with Xiao Yi Xian and Ziyan. She confronts Cao Xiu and demands that the blockade be lifted.
• Xiao Yan secretly uses his superior soul force to intimidate Cao Xiu. Terrified, Cao Xiu orders the guards to allow everyone into the Stone Tower, despite Song Qing’s wishes.
• After entering, Xiao Yan congratulates Dan Chen for successfully acting assertively. Dan Chen is excited by the experience, while Ziyan asks to participate in a similar scheme next time.

Character Developments

• Xuan Kongzi is shown as responsible, observant, and deeply invested in the Pill Tower. His extensive knowledge of its alchemists contrasts humorously with the others’ lack of interest in memorizing such details.
• Xuan Yi acts as the calm mediator between the more extreme personalities of Xuan Kongzi and Tian Leizi.
• Tian Leizi demonstrates his intimidating, violent reputation, casually suggesting that the Cao Clan members be killed, though his loyalty and bluntness are partly played for humor.
• Song Qing is revealed to be arrogant and self-important. He uses Cao Xiu to enforce his wishes and appears to view Cao Ying’s examination partly through the lens of his ambitions for status and marriage.
• Cao Xiu begins as an arrogant enforcer but quickly becomes fearful and submissive when confronted by Dan Chen and Xiao Yan’s hidden soul pressure. His loyalty to Song Qing collapses the moment his own safety is threatened.
• Xiao Yan displays intelligence, theatricality, and strategic control. Rather than using force openly, he provokes the Cao Clan, manipulates public opinion, and uses his soul force to make Cao Xiu retreat.
• Dan Chen gains confidence by acting under Xiao Yan’s guidance. Though naturally timid, she successfully presents herself as authoritative and learns to stand up to the Cao Clan.
• Ziyan is eager to take part in Xiao Yan’s schemes and feels left out when Dan Chen receives the spotlight.

Significant Themes

• Abuse of authority: The Cao Clan uses its influence to monopolize the Stone Tower and inconvenience other alchemists.
• Appearance versus reality: Xiao Yan pretends to be weak, while the supposedly powerful Cao Clan members are helpless against him. Dan Chen also appears timid but successfully adopts a commanding role.
• Power and social status: Cao Xiu and Song Qing rely heavily on family connections, titles, and affiliations, but their confidence disappears when faced with someone of higher standing or hidden strength.
• Confidence through support: Dan Chen’s courage grows because Xiao Yan, Xiao Yi Xian, and Ziyan support her. Her performance marks a small but meaningful step in her personal development.
• Justice and public reputation: Xiao Yan exposes the contradiction between the Pill Tower’s righteous reputation and the Cao Clan’s selfish behavior, turning the crowd against the blockade.

Character Interactions

• The Three Giants’ banter establishes their contrasting personalities: Xuan Kongzi is meticulous and protective of the Pill Tower, Xuan Yi is diplomatic, and Tian Leizi is severe and frighteningly direct.
• Song Qing treats Cao Xiu as a subordinate, while Cao Xiu flatters him despite privately resenting the imbalance between them.
• Xiao Yan verbally confronts Cao Xiu and Song Qing, provoking them into revealing their arrogance before the surrounding crowd.
• Dan Chen openly challenges Cao Xiu with Xiao Yan’s coaching, forcing him to choose between obeying Song Qing and avoiding conflict with the Dan Clan.
• Xiao Yan encourages Dan Chen afterward and promises Ziyan that she will participate in future plans, strengthening their playful, supportive group dynamic.

Chapter Summary: “Cao Ying”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Song Qing is furious after Xiao Yan and his companions enter the Stone Tower despite Cao Xiu’s attempt to block them. He suspects Xiao Yan orchestrated the earlier conflict and vows to deal with him during the examination.
• Dan Chen guides Xiao Yan, Xiao Yi Xian, and Ziyan through the Stone Tower, explaining its various functions. The first floor has been temporarily remodeled to host Cao Ying’s public advancement examination because of the enormous attention surrounding her potential acceptance as a powerful expert’s disciple.
• Xiao Yan realizes that the crowd has been selectively admitted: most of those present are Fifth- or Sixth-Grade Alchemists, while ordinary spectators were likely kept outside. He suspects the event is being used to enhance Cao Ying’s and the Cao Clan’s reputation.
• Cao Ying appears on the examination platform and immediately notices Dan Chen. She approaches the group, initially assuming Dan Chen has come only to observe her examination.
• Dan Chen surprises everyone by declaring that she has come to compete as well.
• Cao Ying meets Xiao Yan, Xiao Yi Xian, and Ziyan. She is intrigued and wary of Xiao Yan, especially because his calm, unfathomable presence does not match his unknown reputation.
• Xiao Yan announces that he too intends to compete with Cao Ying. Song Qing openly mocks him, demanding to see his Alchemist badge and questioning whether he has the qualifications to take the Seventh-Grade examination.
• Xiao Yan admits that he has never taken the Alchemist badge examination, causing Song Qing to assume he is a fraud. Dan Chen defends Xiao Yan, while Ziyan challenges Song Qing’s reasoning.
• Cao Ying agrees to let Xiao Yan participate, partly because she has become interested in him and partly because she enjoys frustrating Song Qing.
• Elder Sheng, one of the Pill Tower’s Eight Great Elders, arrives and offers to act as witness. After confirming Xiao Yan’s Dou Zong cultivation and Spirit-Realm soul, he authorizes a three-way Seventh-Grade alchemy competition between Cao Ying, Dan Chen, and Xiao Yan.
• Song Qing continues provoking Xiao Yan and boasts about his own Seventh-Grade Alchemist status. Ziyan challenges him to a wager: if Xiao Yan produces a better pill than Song Qing, Song Qing must suffer public humiliation.
• Song Qing responds with an obscene counter-wager, saying he will strip and crawl like a dog if he loses, but demanding the same from Ziyan and Xiao Yi Xian if they lose.
• Xiao Yan, angered by Song Qing’s disrespect toward the women accompanying him, personally accepts the wager on their behalf.

Character Developments

• Xiao Yan: Remains composed and confident despite lacking an official Alchemist badge. He openly challenges Cao Ying and shows that his confidence comes from genuine ability rather than recognition. His protective anger emerges when Song Qing insults Ziyan and Xiao Yi Xian.
• Cao Ying: Demonstrates her charisma, confidence, and sharp judgment. She is initially suspicious of Xiao Yan but becomes increasingly interested after seeing his composure, resistance to her charm, and willingness to challenge her. She also shows that she dislikes Song Qing’s obsequious and aggressive behavior.
• Dan Chen: Shows unusual courage and assertiveness. She directly announces her intention to compete and forcefully defends Xiao Yan against Song Qing, revealing her growing trust and admiration for him.
• Ziyan: Acts impulsively and fearlessly, repeatedly confronting Song Qing. Her boldness turns the verbal conflict into a formal wager.
• Song Qing: Becomes increasingly jealous, hostile, and humiliated. His attempts to undermine Xiao Yan repeatedly fail, exposing his insecurity and dependence on Cao Ying’s reputation.
• Elder Sheng: Appears as an amused but authoritative mediator. His recognition of Xiao Yan’s strength legitimizes Xiao Yan’s participation in the examination.

Significant Themes

• Ability versus reputation: Xiao Yan’s lack of an official badge contrasts with his evident skill and confidence, questioning whether formal recognition truly defines an alchemist’s ability.
• Jealousy and insecurity: Song Qing’s hostility stems from his fear of being overshadowed by Xiao Yan and from his possessive interest in Cao Ying.
• Public competition and status: The examination is not merely a test of alchemy; it is also a spectacle designed to elevate Cao Ying and the Cao Clan’s prestige.
• Composure versus vanity: Xiao Yan’s calmness and self-control are repeatedly contrasted with Song Qing’s loud boasting and emotional outbursts.
• Friendship and protection: Dan Chen’s defense of Xiao Yan and Xiao Yan’s reaction to Song Qing’s insult show the strengthening bonds within Xiao Yan’s group.

Important Character Interactions

• Xiao Yan and Dan Chen: Xiao Yan reassures and encourages Dan Chen, while she openly supports him and defends his qualifications.
• Xiao Yan and Cao Ying: Their first meeting is marked by mutual evaluation. Cao Ying tests Xiao Yan’s composure, while Xiao Yan remains unaffected by her charm and boldly challenges her.
• Xiao Yan and Song Qing: Their hostility escalates from verbal provocation to a formal alchemical wager.
• Dan Chen and Cao Ying: Cao Ying initially treats Dan Chen as a younger sister and assumes she is only attending as a spectator, but Dan Chen’s declaration of competition changes their interaction into a respectful rivalry.
• Ziyan and Song Qing: Ziyan repeatedly humiliates and pressures Song Qing, ultimately provoking him into making the wager.
• Elder Sheng and the group: Elder Sheng provides official approval and credibility for the unprecedented three-way Seventh-Grade examination.

Chapter Summary: “Drugging?”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Song Qing leaves after accepting Xiao Yan’s challenge, clearly confident that he can sabotage Xiao Yan’s Seventh-Grade Alchemist examination.
• Ziyan mocks Song Qing and promises to protect Xiao Yan, even joking that she would destroy the entire Pill Tower if he lost. Xiao Yan takes her confidence seriously, suspecting she has powerful safeguards because of her connection to Dragon Emperor Zhukun.
• Xiao Yan, Cao Ying, and Dan Chen proceed to the examination platform. Cao Ying deliberately flirts with Xiao Yan, provoking jealousy and hostility among the surrounding alchemists. Xiao Yi Xian and Xiao Yan quietly demonstrate their deep mutual trust and affection before separating.
• Song Qing intercepts a Pill Tower disciple transporting the examination ingredients. Using his status as the Great Elder’s disciple, he secretly tampers with one portion of ingredients, apparently drugging or contaminating them to make Xiao Yan fail.
• The intimidated disciple is forced to deliver the compromised ingredients to Xiao Yan, since exposing Song Qing could lead to retaliation and would likely bring him little protection from the Pill Tower.
• Elder Sheng inspects all three portions but detects no obvious problem. Xiao Yan also examines his ingredients and finds them seemingly flawless, though he remains suspicious of Song Qing’s unexplained absence and warns Ziyan and Xiao Yi Xian to stay alert.
• The Seventh-Grade Alchemist examination officially begins. The three contestants summon their powerful pill cauldrons, drawing excitement from the crowd and from the Pill Tower’s leaders.
• At the examination’s start, Tian Leizi and Xuan Kongzi consider the possibility that all three contestants could become worthy successors to the Pill Tower’s great leaders.
• Xuan Yi suddenly recognizes Xiao Yan’s Bone Spirit Cold Fire and Black Demon Cauldron. She realizes that he is connected to a person from her past whom she believed dead, reacting with intense shock, joy, grief, and fear.

Character Developments

• Xiao Yan: Remains calm, confident, and cautious. He trusts his own alchemical ability but does not underestimate Song Qing’s schemes. His quiet exchange with Xiao Yi Xian reveals emotional closeness, while his response to Ziyan shows that he takes her hidden strength seriously.
• Ziyan: Displays her impulsive, fearless, and protective nature. Though she acts childish and playful, her promise to defend Xiao Yan hints at extraordinary power and secret support.
• Song Qing: Reveals himself as underhanded and vindictive. Rather than relying solely on his skill, he manipulates a junior disciple and sabotages the examination ingredients.
• Cao Ying: Continues to use her beauty and flirtatious charm deliberately, both teasing Xiao Yan and provoking her rivals. Her confident behavior reinforces her status as a highly capable and socially powerful contestant.
• Dan Chen: Initially becomes nervous under the crowd’s attention, but quickly regains her serious, competitive focus and declares that she never holds back during pill refinement.
• Xiao Yi Xian: Shares a calm, intimate understanding with Xiao Yan and remains quietly supportive.
• Elder Sheng: Acts as the examination supervisor, maintaining authority and attempting to inspect the ingredients fairly, though he remains uncertain about possible interference.
• Xuan Yi: Experiences the most dramatic emotional revelation. Recognizing Xiao Yan’s flames and cauldron links him to a lost figure from her past, creating a major mystery surrounding Xiao Yan’s identity and history.

Significant Themes

• Rivalry and sabotage: Song Qing’s drugging of the ingredients shows how competition within the Pill Tower extends beyond talent into political maneuvering and deceit.
• Trust and loyalty: Xiao Yan’s companions remain confident in him, while Xiao Yi Xian and Ziyan demonstrate different forms of loyalty—quiet emotional support and aggressive protection.
• Hidden strength beneath appearances: Ziyan’s childish demeanor conceals potentially overwhelming power, while Xiao Yan’s unfamiliar identity hides a connection to an important past.
• Ambition and succession: The Pill Tower’s leaders begin viewing the examination not merely as a test, but as a chance to identify future successors.
• Recognition and memory: Xuan Yi’s reaction emphasizes how objects such as the Bone Spirit Cold Fire and Black Demon Cauldron can revive painful memories and reveal long-buried identities.
• Public image versus reality: Song Qing presents himself as friendly and concerned while secretly acting maliciously, contrasting outward politeness with hidden motives.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Yan and Ziyan: Their playful argument reveals familiarity and mutual trust. Ziyan boldly promises to protect him, while Xiao Yan recognizes that her confidence may be justified.
• Xiao Yan and Cao Ying: Cao Ying flirts with him to test and provoke him, while Xiao Yan responds confidently without being visibly affected.
• Xiao Yan and Xiao Yi Xian: Their brief exchange conveys deep affection and emotional unity even when they are physically separated.
• Xiao Yan and Dan Chen: He teases her about competing against him, helping establish a friendly but challenging relationship. Dan Chen responds earnestly and asserts her seriousness as an alchemist.
• Song Qing and the Pill Tower disciple: Song Qing abuses his authority to coerce the disciple into helping sabotage Xiao Yan. The disciple resents him but feels unable to resist.
• Elder Sheng and the contestants: Elder Sheng supervises the examination and warns them to inspect their materials carefully, unknowingly allowing the sabotage to proceed.
• Xuan Yi, Xuan Kongzi, and Tian Leizi: Their discussion shifts from casual observation to intense anticipation when they recognize Xiao Yan’s significance. Xuan Yi’s emotional reaction suggests that Xiao Yan may be tied to a major unresolved event in the Pill Tower’s past.

Chapter Summary: “Alchemy, Sudden Change!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Yan begins the alchemy assessment by placing his Bone Spirit Cold Fire, a rare Heavenly Flame, into his medicinal cauldron. Its power and ancient aura shock the watching alchemists.
• Cao Ying uses her artificial Blood Demon Flame, recognizing that although it is currently weaker than Xiao Yan’s flame, it has considerable potential for growth.
• Xiao Yan, Cao Ying, and Dan Chen rapidly heat their cauldrons and refine their ingredients with exceptional precision. Their smooth movements and pure medicinal liquids impress the gathered alchemists.
• The crowd identifies Dan Chen as a famous alchemy prodigy but remains uncertain about Xiao Yan’s origins. His skill is clearly comparable to, or possibly greater than, that of established Seventh-Grade Alchemists.
• Song Qing becomes increasingly jealous and hostile toward Xiao Yan. He resents Xiao Yan’s attention from Cao Ying, his growing popularity, and the threat he poses to Song Qing’s standing in the Pill Tower.
• Xiao Yan notices Song Qing’s suspicious expression and remains alert for sabotage. However, because he must continue refining before the medicinal properties deteriorate, he proceeds to the pill-condensation stage.
• The three alchemists successfully reach the difficult fusion process. Xiao Yan carefully combines hundreds of medicinal-liquid droplets, using precise techniques to balance conflicting medicinal properties and remove impurities.
• Xiao Yan’s pill refinement progresses impressively, but the process is near the limit of his ability, especially since he is using the Bone Spirit Cold Fire rather than a flame he normally relies on.
• Near the latter half of the fusion, an apparently ordinary medicinal liquid causes the previously stable pill embryo to suddenly become violently unstable. The spectators assume Xiao Yan has made a mistake.
• Elder Sheng immediately suspects that Song Qing interfered with the ingredients, especially after noticing a smug expression on Song Qing’s face. However, he has no proof and cannot openly accuse the Great Elder’s disciple.
• From the upper levels of the Pill Tower, the three giants—Xuan Yi, Xuan Kongzi, and Tian Leizi—confirm that they witnessed Song Qing tampering with the medicinal materials.
• Xuan Yi furiously attempts to attack Song Qing, but the others restrain her. Xuan Kongzi realizes that Song Qing must have used a special reagent capable of deceiving even the three Pill Tower giants’ perception, suggesting that the sabotage involves a serious and potentially dangerous secret.

Character Development

• Xiao Yan demonstrates extraordinary alchemical control, composure, and adaptability. He is confident enough to use Bone Spirit Cold Fire despite its unfamiliarity and remains vigilant against Song Qing while continuing the delicate refinement.
• Cao Ying recognizes Xiao Yan’s superior flame and technique, becoming more interested in his abilities. Her competitive spirit remains strong, as she believes her Blood Demon Flame may eventually equal or surpass his.
• Dan Chen shows admiration and trust toward Xiao Yan, but she remains focused on improving her own performance rather than being distracted by him.
• Song Qing becomes consumed by jealousy and insecurity. Xiao Yan’s talent, popularity, and possible connection to Cao Ying threaten Song Qing’s pride and position, pushing him toward underhanded sabotage.
• Elder Sheng acts cautiously and professionally. Though he suspects Song Qing, his lack of evidence and Song Qing’s powerful backing prevent him from intervening.
• Xuan Yi reveals her fierce loyalty to Xiao Yan and her explosive temper. Her anger confirms that she understands Song Qing deliberately sabotaged the assessment.
• Xuan Kongzi provides the more measured analysis, realizing the sabotage may involve a reagent capable of bypassing even the Pill Tower giants’ detection.

Significant Themes

• Talent versus jealousy: Xiao Yan’s natural ability attracts admiration but also threatens established figures such as Song Qing.
• Fair competition and corruption: The alchemy assessment appears legitimate, yet Song Qing secretly interferes, exposing the danger of favoritism and abuse of status.
• Skill and precision: The chapter emphasizes that advanced alchemy depends not merely on strength, but on timing, control, and the ability to reconcile conflicting medicinal properties.
• Hidden power and identity: Xiao Yan’s possession of Bone Spirit Cold Fire hints at his deeper background and connection to Yao Chen, while his unknown origins make him an object of curiosity.
• Limits of perception and authority: Even the Pill Tower’s highest authorities can be deceived, suggesting that the sabotage involves a powerful or forbidden technique.
• Composure under pressure: Xiao Yan must balance suspicion of Song Qing with the immediate demands of the pill-refining process.

Important Character Interactions

• Xiao Yan’s technique impresses both Cao Ying and Dan Chen, strengthening their recognition of him as a true alchemical prodigy.
• The surrounding alchemists debate Xiao Yan’s identity and skill, establishing his sudden rise in reputation.
• Song Qing’s jealousy is directed at Xiao Yan because of both his talent and the attention he receives from Cao Ying.
• Xiao Yan’s avatar monitors Song Qing while his true body refines the pill, showing his unusual ability to divide attention and guard against interference.
• Elder Sheng silently connects Song Qing’s suspicious behavior to the pill’s sudden instability but lacks the authority and evidence to act.
• Xuan Yi confronts Xuan Kongzi and Tian Leizi, demanding that they allow her to punish Song Qing, while Xuan Kongzi explains that the sabotage may involve a reagent capable of fooling even the Pill Tower’s giants.

Chapter Summary: “Soul Hall’s Prescription”

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Three Giants of the Pill Tower—Xuan Yi, Xuan Kongzi, and Tian Leizi—argue over whether Xiao Yan should be allowed to continue his alchemist examination. Xuan Yi is especially upset because Xiao Yan may be Yao Chen’s disciple, and she feels he has already been treated unfairly.
• Xuan Kongzi convinces her to stand down, promising to pay for Xiao Yan’s next examination if he fails and suggesting that Cao Ying and Xiao Yan train together in the Pill Tower.
• The Three Giants privately question whether Yao Chen is still alive. They doubt Xiao Yan is truly his disciple because his pill-fusion technique appears rough and forceful, despite being highly effective.
• In the examination hall, Cao Ying and Dan Chen successfully complete the pill-fusion stage and begin pill congealing. Dan Chen remains distracted by concern for Xiao Yan.
• Xiao Yan discovers that the instability in his pill was caused by a transparent medicinal liquid secretly mixed into the ingredients. The substance causes the medicinal properties to conflict and threatens to ruin the pill.
• Song Qing watches smugly, believing the sabotage will force Xiao Yan to fail. He considers further ways to eliminate Xiao Yan, including seeking help from his clan or hiring assassins.
• Xiao Yan uses a clone and Spatial Teleportation to remove the harmful liquid from the pill. The droplet is sent directly onto Song Qing’s head, severely corroding his scalp and skull and leaving him publicly humiliated.
• Xiao Yan stabilizes the damaged pill and continues refining it. He recovers escaping medicinal fragrance and evaporated medicinal properties, returning them to the pill through precise Heavenly Flame control.
• Cao Ying completes a Seventh-Grade Pill, followed shortly by Dan Chen. Their success confirms both as exceptionally talented Seventh-Grade alchemists, especially Dan Chen, who is only sixteen.
• Xiao Yan also completes his pill. Despite the loss of medicinal power, its brilliance is equal to Cao Ying’s and Dan Chen’s creations.
• The pill unexpectedly attracts Pill Lightning. Xiao Yan is shocked that his low-tier Seventh-Grade Pill has triggered a lightning tribulation, setting up the chapter’s cliffhanger.

Character Developments

• Xiao Yan: Demonstrates extraordinary composure, ingenuity, flame control, soul power, and combat-related spatial techniques. Rather than allowing sabotage to ruin his examination, he turns the hidden poison against Song Qing and produces a pill of astonishing quality.
• Song Qing: His confidence and arrogance collapse into humiliation and fury. He realizes that Xiao Yan has survived the sabotage and begins contemplating more dangerous methods of eliminating him.
• Xuan Yi: Reveals strong emotional concern for Xiao Yan and lingering guilt toward Yao Chen, though she reluctantly accepts the others’ plan.
• Xuan Kongzi and Tian Leizi: Act as mediators and protect Xiao Yan’s opportunity to remain in the examination. Their assessment of Xiao Yan changes as they recognize that his abilities may be far beyond those of an ordinary Seventh-Grade Alchemist.
• Cao Ying: Becomes the first examinee to complete a successful Seventh-Grade Pill, reinforcing her reputation as a prodigy.
• Dan Chen: Shows compassion and concern for Xiao Yan while completing her own pill. Her success is especially impressive because of her young age.
• Elder Sheng: Observes Xiao Yan closely and becomes puzzled by his seemingly impossible recovery, beginning to suspect that he used spatial power inside the cauldron.

Significant Themes

• Ingenuity overcoming sabotage: Xiao Yan succeeds not through brute strength alone, but by identifying the hidden contaminant and devising an unconventional solution.
• Hidden ability and underestimated talent: The Pill Tower’s leaders initially view Xiao Yan’s methods as crude, but his performance reveals skill comparable to that required for Eighth-Grade alchemy.
• Ambition and treachery: Song Qing’s sabotage and plans for assassination show how competition within the Pill Tower has become dangerous and personal.
• Public humiliation and reversal: Song Qing expects Xiao Yan to fail, but instead becomes the victim of his own scheme and the object of ridicule.
• The cost of perfection: Xiao Yan expends enormous flame control and soul power to recover every trace of medicinal energy, showing his refusal to settle for a merely passable result.
• Youthful genius: Cao Ying, Dan Chen, and Xiao Yan’s achievements emphasize the extraordinary talents emerging among the younger generation.

Important Character Interactions

• Xuan Yi confronts Xuan Kongzi over protecting Xiao Yan, while Tian Leizi supports Xuan Kongzi’s decision.
• Xuan Kongzi offers practical compensation and proposes that Cao Ying train alongside Xiao Yan.
• Xuan Kongzi and Tian Leizi privately debate whether Xiao Yan is truly Yao Chen’s disciple and marvel at his use of Spatial Teleportation.
• Dan Chen repeatedly watches Xiao Yan’s cauldron with concern while completing her own pill.
• Xiao Yan silently confronts Song Qing through mocking glances, then retaliates by teleporting the corrosive liquid onto Song Qing’s head.
• Song Qing’s humiliation becomes a spectacle for the crowd, though everyone avoids openly admitting they laughed at him.
• The Three Giants and Elder Sheng react with astonishment as Xiao Yan stabilizes the pill and displays unprecedented control.
• Cao Ying, Dan Chen, and Xiao Yan each produce powerful beams of medicinal light, turning the examination into a display of three competing prodigies.

Chapter Summary: “Taking a Master”

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Yan survives the sudden silver-white heavenly lightning that erupts during the pill-refinement examination. Although his clothes are singed and his hair disheveled, he emerges unharmed with the successfully formed pill in his hand.
• Dan Chen initially panics and tries to rush to Xiao Yan, but Ziyan stops her, insisting that Xiao Yan will be fine. Xiao Yan later jokingly calls himself “tough as nails,” prompting playful exchanges with Ziyan.
• Xiao Yan reveals a pearl-like, milky-white Seventh-Grade Pill. Its fragrance restores much of the Dou Qi that Cao Ying and Dan Chen had expended, impressing the surrounding alchemists.
• Elder Sheng recognizes that Xiao Yan’s achievement is extraordinary because his pill refinement had been sabotaged during the fusion stage. Despite the pill being slightly inferior to Cao Ying’s and Dan Chen’s, successfully forming it under such conditions is nearly miraculous.
• Elder Sheng announces that Xiao Yan, Cao Ying, and Dan Chen have all passed the Seventh-Grade Alchemist Examination. The crowd erupts in celebration, especially those who had bet on Xiao Yan.
• Cao Ying and Xiao Yan discuss the possibility of her becoming Xuan Kongzi’s disciple. Xiao Yan asks her to deliver a letter to Xuan Yi, one of the Pill Tower’s Three Giants.
• Before Cao Ying can respond, Xuan Yi, Xuan Kongzi, and Tian Leizi appear before the group. Their arrival causes widespread excitement throughout the Stone Tower.
• Xiao Yan respectfully greets Xuan Yi and gives her Wind Venerable’s letter. The letter explains Yao Chen’s disappearance and reveals Xiao Yan’s true identity and connection to him.
• Xuan Yi is visibly shaken by the letter. Rather than speaking further with Xiao Yan, she immediately takes Dan Chen away, effectively accepting her as a disciple.
• Xuan Kongzi also leaves with Cao Ying, who had already expressed her wish to become his disciple. Xiao Yan is left without the opportunity to establish a relationship with either giant.
• Believing that he has lost his chance to gain powerful support within the Pill Tower—and concerned about offending Song Qing, the Great Elder’s disciple—Xiao Yan decides to leave with Xiao Yi Xian and Ziyan.
• Tian Leizi unexpectedly stops Xiao Yan and takes him, Xiao Yi Xian, and Ziyan away, suggesting that Xiao Yan’s prospects within the Pill Tower may not be over.

2. Character Developments

• Xiao Yan: Demonstrates exceptional composure and technical ability by completing a pill despite interference. He remains humble and respectful before the Pill Tower’s leaders, but also shows practical judgment when he decides not to remain in a hostile environment without a powerful protector. His disappointment is tempered by his resilience and willingness to seek other opportunities.
• Dan Chen: Reveals deep concern for Xiao Yan, rushing toward him when he appears to be consumed by lightning. Her emotional attachment and admiration for him become increasingly apparent. Her acceptance as Xuan Yi’s disciple marks a major advancement in her status.
• Cao Ying: Maintains her playful, seductive manner with Xiao Yan but becomes serious in the presence of the Three Giants. Her talent is rewarded when Xuan Kongzi takes her as his disciple.
• Ziyan: Acts protectively toward Dan Chen and confidently reassures her about Xiao Yan’s safety. Her childish, playful relationship with Xiao Yan continues, including their joking physical exchanges and her anger when he takes half her betting winnings.
• Xiao Yi Xian: Provides steady emotional support for Xiao Yan. She reassures him after the awkward encounter with the Three Giants and remains willing to follow him even if they leave the Pill Tower.
• Xuan Yi: Experiences a powerful emotional reaction upon recognizing the implications of Wind Venerable’s letter. Her response suggests a strong past connection to Yao Chen and deep unresolved feelings concerning his disappearance.
• Tian Leizi: Initially appears detached, but ultimately intervenes in Xiao Yan’s favor by taking him away, hinting that he may intend to help or personally guide him.

3. Significant Themes

• Talent proven through adversity: Xiao Yan’s successful refinement despite sabotage emphasizes that true ability is revealed under pressure, not merely in ideal circumstances.
• Legacy and mentorship: The chapter centers on the importance of master-disciple relationships. Cao Ying and Dan Chen gain powerful mentors, while Xiao Yan’s connection to Yao Chen complicates his own relationship with the Pill Tower.
• The burden of the past: Yao Chen’s disappearance and Xiao Yan’s identity deeply affect Xuan Yi, showing that old loyalties and unresolved grief continue to shape present events.
• Recognition versus belonging: Xiao Yan earns public recognition by passing the examination, but formal acceptance into the Pill Tower remains uncertain because of political and personal complications.
• Loyalty and companionship: Xiao Yi Xian and Ziyan remain beside Xiao Yan despite his setbacks, emphasizing that emotional support can matter as much as institutional power.
• Fate and unexpected opportunities: Just as Xiao Yan assumes he has lost his chance in the Pill Tower, Tian Leizi’s intervention creates a new and unforeseen path.

4. Character Interactions

• Xiao Yan and Ziyan: Their relationship is playful and sibling-like, involving teasing, mock violence, and familiar banter. Ziyan’s actions also show genuine concern for those around her.
• Xiao Yan and Dan Chen: Dan Chen’s panic when Xiao Yan is struck by lightning reveals her affection and dependence on him. Xiao Yan responds warmly but remains careful to suppress his own emotional reactions.
• Xiao Yan and Xiao Yi Xian: Their exchanged glance after the lightning and her later reassurance demonstrate a quiet intimacy and strong mutual trust.
• Xiao Yan and Cao Ying: Their conversation mixes Cao Ying’s flirtatious teasing with Xiao Yan’s direct, purposeful manner. He treats her respectfully while seeking her help with the letter.
• Xiao Yan and Xuan Yi: Their encounter is formal but emotionally charged. Xuan Yi’s reaction to the letter indicates that Xiao Yan is connected to painful memories involving Yao Chen.
• Xuan Yi and Dan Chen: Xuan Yi takes Dan Chen as her disciple without waiting for formal consent, suggesting both urgency and confidence that Dan Chen will accept.
• Xuan Kongzi and Cao Ying: Their master-disciple relationship is established smoothly because Cao Ying had already chosen him.
• Tian Leizi and Xiao Yan: Tian Leizi’s final intervention is abrupt and mysterious, implying that he may recognize Xiao Yan’s potential and intend to offer him guidance or protection.

Chapter Summary: “Tian Leizi’s Sacred Training Ground?”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Two days after the assessment, Xiao Yan wakes as Tian Leizi’s newly accepted legacy disciple, giving him the highest disciple status in the Pill Tower.
• The chapter explains the Pill Tower’s hierarchy:
  • Medicine attendants handle chores and medicinal fields.
  • Outer disciples are low-grade alchemists with limited resources.
  • Inner disciples receive better supplies, research opportunities, and private rooms.
  • Legacy disciples are personally accepted by powerful elders and enjoy exceptional privileges.
• Xiao Yan discovers that his new residence includes a courtyard and a vast spatially expanded medicinal garden—luxuries made possible by the Pill Tower’s immense resources.
• Little Fairy Doctor reminds Xiao Yan that the Pill Tower’s strict structure and defensive design exist largely because of the Soul Hall’s threat. She urges him to cultivate harder and eventually destroy the Soul Hall and Soul Clan.
• Xiao Yan visits Tian Leizi’s enormous palace, passing guards from the powerful Pill Guard force, which exists to defend the Pill Tower against the Soul Hall.
• Tian Leizi formally receives Xiao Yan but tells him not to rigidly call him “Master.” He explains that he refuses to accept a disciple weaker than himself and sees Xiao Yan as someone who may eventually surpass him.
• Tian Leizi gives Xiao Yan a massive collection of notes analyzing the flaws in Xiao Yan’s alchemy from the previous day’s assessment.
• He outlines his teaching method: every few months, Xiao Yan may observe or assist in the refinement of an Eighth-Grade Pill, then refine a pill himself and receive further corrections. Xiao Yan appreciates the efficient, individualized approach.
• Tian Leizi then takes Xiao Yan to his “sacred training ground”—a terrifying Thunder Sea filled with silver lightning powerful enough to reduce matter to dust.
• Without giving Xiao Yan time to object, Tian Leizi throws him into the Thunder Sea.

Character Developments

• Xiao Yan gains immense status and resources as a legacy disciple but remains humble enough to recognize the gap between his former life and the Pill Tower’s standards.
• His confidence and ambition are reinforced, particularly regarding the destruction of the Soul Hall. However, his playful personality remains prominent.
• Xiao Yan quickly develops respect and gratitude toward Tian Leizi after seeing the elder’s serious dedication to correcting his alchemical weaknesses.
• Tian Leizi is established as unconventional, proud, blunt, and highly confident. He competes intellectually with Yao Chen and believes Xiao Yan must eventually surpass him rather than remain dependent on him.
• Tian Leizi’s teaching style is practical and demanding: he provides detailed criticism but expects Xiao Yan to study and improve independently.
• Little Fairy Doctor continues to act as Xiao Yan’s affectionate companion and voice of reason, encouraging both his personal discipline and larger goals.
• Zi Yan remains mischievous and food-motivated, secretly taking the candy pills Xiao Yan leaves for her.

Significant Themes

• The vast hierarchy of power and privilege: Xiao Yan’s rise from outsider to legacy disciple highlights the enormous differences in status within the Pill Tower.
• Talent versus guidance: Xiao Yan has reached the seventh alchemy rank largely through Yao Chen’s foundation and his own genius, but Tian Leizi identifies the gaps that only expert instruction can correct.
• Mentorship and independence: Tian Leizi offers guidance without creating dependence, expecting Xiao Yan to learn through observation, practice, and self-correction.
• Preparation against external threats: The Pill Tower’s organization, defenses, and resources are shaped by its ongoing conflict with the Soul Hall.
• Humor amid danger: The chapter contrasts Xiao Yan’s playful domestic interactions and hopeful expectations with Tian Leizi’s absurdly dangerous idea of training.

Important Character Interactions

• Xiao Yan and Little Fairy Doctor: They share a playful, affectionate morning. She teases him about complaining despite his privileges and reminds him of his responsibility to oppose the Soul Hall.
• Xiao Yan and Zi Yan: Xiao Yan gently wakes her and leaves candy pills; Zi Yan pretends to sleep before secretly stealing them.
• Xiao Yan and Tian Leizi: Their first master-disciple meeting establishes mutual respect but also Tian Leizi’s unconventional attitude. Tian Leizi analyzes Xiao Yan’s abilities, gives him extensive study materials, explains his teaching plan, and immediately subjects him to brutal training.
• The chapter ends comically and abruptly with Xiao Yan realizing that Tian Leizi’s “sacred training ground” is a lethal Thunder Sea—and being thrown into it before he can protest.

Chapter Summary: The Divide at the Peak of the Eighth Tier

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Yan spends nearly half a month trapped in Tian Leizi’s Thunder Pool, enduring continuous lightning strikes to temper his body. He successfully exhausts the pool’s lightning, proving his exceptional endurance.
• Tian Leizi gives Xiao Yan an Eighth Rank Five-Qi Returning-to-Origin Liquid, which replenishes his vitality and repairs the hidden injuries caused by the lightning.
• Tian Leizi reveals that the Thunder Pool is powered by a Thunder Path Stone connected to the ancient Thunder Emperor, a Dou God of the Thunder Clan.
• Instead of allowing Xiao Yan to leave, Tian Leizi opens the space to the outside sky and summons tribulation lightning containing Black Demon Lightning. Xiao Yan is forced to withstand it with his body and is immediately severely injured.
• Tian Leizi explains his alchemical method, Thunder Spirit Tempering, which uses heavenly lightning to stimulate a pill’s spirituality and medicinal power. Alchemists who practice this method must first endure the lightning themselves.
• Xuan Kongzi arrives and worries that Tian Leizi is being too harsh. Tian Leizi insists Xiao Yan will survive, citing his ability to drain the Thunder Pool in record time.
• The two Pill Tower giants discuss Xiao Yan’s background. Tian Leizi confirms that Pill Guards investigated him and found no connection to the Soul Hall.
• Xuan Kongzi suggests giving Xiao Yan missions to eliminate Soul Hall Protectors as proof of loyalty. Tian Leizi objects and demands an Eighth Rank Scorpion Venom Dragon Beast core as compensation for the suspicion placed on Xiao Yan.
• Xuan Kongzi agrees to provide a Seventh Rank core and promises to inquire whether an Eighth Rank core can be obtained from the Cao Clan, likely because Xiao Yan needs it to treat someone close to him.

Character Developments

• Xiao Yan: His already powerful body becomes significantly stronger through repeated lightning tempering. He demonstrates extraordinary endurance and mental resilience, though he is shocked and resentful when Tian Leizi escalates the training to lethal Black Demon Lightning. His need for medicinal ingredients to help an important woman in his life is also reinforced.
• Tian Leizi: He reveals a harsh but genuine teaching style. Though he subjects Xiao Yan to brutal trials, he provides valuable restorative medicine and clearly approves of Xiao Yan’s talent. His protectiveness becomes evident when he challenges the Pill Tower’s suspicion of Xiao Yan and bargains for a superior magic core on his behalf.
• Xuan Kongzi: He remains cautious and responsible as a Pill Tower leader, investigating Xiao Yan’s background to rule out Soul Hall ties. At the same time, he shows concern for Xiao Yan’s safety and ultimately agrees to help secure the needed magic core.
• Yao Chen: Though absent, he is mentioned as an alchemist who follows the Spirit-Ascension Method, providing a contrast to Tian Leizi’s Thunder Spirit Tempering technique.

Significant Themes

• Endurance through suffering: Xiao Yan’s growth comes from surviving extreme pain, continuing the story’s recurring theme that hardship can forge greater strength.
• Contrasting paths to alchemical mastery: The chapter distinguishes Yao Chen’s Spirit-Ascension Method from Tian Leizi’s Thunder Spirit Tempering, presenting two different ways peak Eighth Rank alchemists enhance pill spirituality.
• Destruction and creation: Heavenly lightning is both destructive and life-giving. Its destructive force must be endured before its creative vitality can strengthen a pill.
• Trust and loyalty: The Pill Tower’s investigation of Xiao Yan reflects institutional caution, while Tian Leizi’s defense of him demonstrates personal trust and mentorship.
• Harsh mentorship: Tian Leizi’s methods are cruel but purposeful. His brutal training is paired with protection, medicine, and advocacy, suggesting that his apparent ruthlessness masks genuine concern.
• The value of rare resources: The negotiation over the Scorpion Venom Dragon Beast core emphasizes the scarcity and importance of high-grade alchemical materials.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Yan and Tian Leizi establish a complicated master-disciple relationship: Xiao Yan respects Tian Leizi but internally protests his merciless training methods.
• Tian Leizi alternates between kindness—giving Xiao Yan restorative medicine—and cruelty—subjecting him to Black Demon Lightning without allowing him to rest.
• Tian Leizi and Xuan Kongzi argue over Xiao Yan’s treatment. Xuan Kongzi emphasizes security and verification, while Tian Leizi resents the lack of trust and demands compensation for Xiao Yan.
• Their exchange also reveals mutual familiarity and playful rivalry, particularly when Tian Leizi tries to obtain an Eighth Rank magic core through Xuan Kongzi’s connections to the Cao Clan.

Chapter Summary: “Traveling with Cao Ying”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Yan spends nearly another month training in Tian Leizi’s Thunder Pool. With repeated doses of Five-Qi Returning-to-Origin Liquid, he gradually adapts to Battle Venerable-level lightning and strengthens both his main body and clone to Battle Venerable physical strength.
• During this time, Xiao Yan studies Tian Leizi’s alchemy correction notes while being struck by lightning. He learns to control Heavenly Lightning through his body and use it as ink, despite burning more than two hundred copies of the notes during practice.
• While discussing the refinement of the Seventh-Grade Soul-Congealing God-Transforming Pill, Xiao Yan corrects Tian Leizi’s method for handling Nether Soul Grass. He suggests using Heavenly Flames to gently remove its baleful yin energy without destroying its medicinal essence. Tian Leizi acknowledges that Xiao Yan’s method is superior but rarely used because Heavenly Flames are extremely uncommon.
• Tian Leizi tells Xiao Yan that he must accompany Cao Ying on a Pill Tower mission. Cao Ying specifically requested his assistance because the mission requires Heavenly Flames.
• As payment, Xiao Yan will receive an Eighth-Rank Scorpion Venom Dragon Beast magic core, an item he needs and which Tian Leizi deliberately obtained for him.
• Tian Leizi also orders Xiao Yan to complete additional Pill Guard missions and pursue promotion from Captain to Commander. Although Xiao Yan is technically only a Dou Zong, his Battle Venerable-level body makes him qualified in strength; however, he still needs genuine achievements.
• After returning to his courtyard, Xiao Yan finds Cao Ying waiting. The following morning, they meet at a spatial plaza in Saint Pill City and prepare to travel through a spatial wormhole.
• The chapter ends when Cao Ying reveals that their destination is the Wild Wasteland Ancient Domain, a place Xiao Yan has not yet heard about.

Character Developments

• Xiao Yan: Shows remarkable adaptability, endurance, and learning ability. He masters lightning control while simultaneously enduring Thunder Pool tempering and studying alchemy. His physical strength rises dramatically, giving him confidence in facing Battle Venerable-level challenges. He also becomes more aware of his obligations to Tian Leizi and the value of repaying his senior’s investment.
• Tian Leizi: Acts as a demanding but generous mentor. He pushes Xiao Yan far beyond normal training limits while supplying extremely valuable medicinal liquid. Though impressed by Xiao Yan’s rapid progress, he is visibly distressed by the cost of six portions of Five-Qi Returning-to-Origin Liquid and responds by assigning Xiao Yan difficult missions.
• Cao Ying: Is presented as an influential and highly talented young woman whose beauty and status attract widespread attention. Her interest in Xiao Yan is practical rather than romantic: she needs his Heavenly Flames for the mission and wants the valuable rewards and connections it offers.
• The Xiao Yan clone: Benefits alongside Xiao Yan’s main body from Tian Leizi’s medicinal resources, contributing to the senior’s frustration over the expense.

Significant Themes

• Mentorship and investment: Tian Leizi’s harsh training and costly resources demonstrate how powerful mentors accelerate a talented disciple’s growth, while also expecting results in return.
• Talent versus conventional limitations: Xiao Yan’s rapid mastery of lightning control and his ability to endure Battle Venerable-level power emphasize his unusual potential and ability to surpass ordinary standards.
• Alchemy as a combination of knowledge and technique: The discussion of Nether Soul Grass highlights that successful pill refinement depends not only on established formulas but also on understanding the nature of ingredients and applying precise flame control.
• Reciprocity and obligation: Xiao Yan recognizes that Tian Leizi has invested heavily in him, while Tian Leizi expects Xiao Yan to repay that investment through accomplishments.
• Reputation and social status: Cao Ying’s appearance, lineage, and position create a powerful public presence, while Xiao Yan’s arrival as a Dou Zong immediately changes how the crowd views him.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Yan and Tian Leizi engage in a teacher-student discussion over the proper refinement of the Soul-Congealing God-Transforming Pill. Xiao Yan confidently offers a correction, and Tian Leizi admits that his suggestion is valid.
• Tian Leizi assigns Xiao Yan the mission with Cao Ying and uses the promised Scorpion Venom Dragon Beast core to secure his cooperation.
• Tian Leizi pressures Xiao Yan to seek promotion within the Pill Guards, refusing to let him avoid responsibility by claiming he is still only a Dou Zong.
• Cao Ying waits for Xiao Yan at the spatial plaza and warmly welcomes him, though her motivations remain tied to the mission’s rewards and her own advancement.
• The chapter closes with Cao Ying introducing the mission’s destination—the Wild Wasteland Ancient Domain—setting up the next stage of their journey.

Chapter Summary: Wild Wasteland Ancient Domain, Chen Clan

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Yan and Cao Ying travel through a spatial wormhole to Great Wilderness City, located near the dangerous Wild Wasteland Ancient Domain.
• Cao Ying explains that the Ancient Domain preserves the continent’s most primitive environment and is inhabited by violent, unintelligent ferocious beasts descended from ancient Magical Beast bloodlines. These creatures can reach the Peak Battle Venerable or even higher levels.
• Because powerful intelligent Magical Beasts are protected by major clans and Dou Saints, alchemists rely on the Ancient Domain’s ferocious beasts for rare Eighth-Rank Magic Cores and blood essence. Families that hunt these beasts supply materials to organizations such as the Pill Tower.
• Cao Ying reveals that roughly sixty families supply the Pill Tower, while nearly a hundred such families serve various alchemist factions. Most are at least Battle Venerable forces, with many possessing Four-Star Battle Venerables or stronger.
• Xiao Yan reflects on the overwhelming strength hidden across the Central Plains. He becomes especially wary after considering the concealed strength of factions such as the Burning Flame Valley and its mysterious Dou Saint ancestor.
• At the Chen Residence, Great Elder Chen Mu personally welcomes Xiao Yan and Cao Ying. They were summoned to treat Chen Hao, the Chen Clan patriarch and a Seven-Star Battle Venerable.
• Chen Hao was severely injured while protecting his clansmen from a High-Tier Battle Venerable ferocious beast. A deep chest wound remains contaminated by deadly poison, leaving him unconscious and near death.
• Cao Ying refuses the welcoming banquet and insists on examining the patient immediately. Chen Mu, although doubtful that such young alchemists can save his brother, agrees because Chen Hao’s condition is rapidly worsening.
• Inside Chen Hao’s room, Xiao Yan and Cao Ying witness a humorous family dispute: Chen Hao refuses to drink a medicinal broth made from Seventh-Grade materials, while his son Chen Yi insists that it can help.
• Chen Mu forcibly pours the medicine down Chen Hao’s throat, then apologizes to the guests for the chaotic scene.

Character Developments

• Xiao Yan: Gains a deeper understanding of the Central Plains’ hidden power structure and the importance of resource-gathering families. His surprise at the strength of these clans reinforces his caution and humility.
• Cao Ying: Demonstrates professionalism, confidence, and urgency. She takes command of the mission, prioritizing Chen Hao’s treatment over formal hospitality and carefully evaluates both the Chen Clan and its surroundings.
• Chen Mu: Is introduced as a rough but capable Great Elder. His sharp judgment and guarded inspection of the guests contrast with his sincere concern for his brother. His forceful treatment of Chen Hao also reveals his direct, impatient personality.
• Chen Hao: Though gravely wounded, he remains stubborn, proud, and energetic enough to argue about the wasteful use of medicinal materials.
• Chen Yi: Appears as a caring but somewhat helpless son who desperately tries to help his father with the limited medical resources available in Great Wilderness City.

Significant Themes

• Danger and opportunity: The Wild Wasteland Ancient Domain is both a deadly forbidden land and an essential source of rare alchemical materials.
• Hidden strength: The Central Plains contains many powerful families and experts whose abilities far exceed common public reputations or popular descriptions.
• Loyalty and brotherhood: Unlike families driven primarily by succession struggles, the Chen Clan maintains strong bonds because its members regularly depend on one another for survival.
• Resource scarcity and dependence: Great Wilderness City lacks high-level alchemists, forcing injured cultivators to rely on crude emergency treatments and the Pill Tower’s distant assistance.
• Professional duty versus social ceremony: Cao Ying immediately focuses on saving Chen Hao rather than accepting hospitality, emphasizing the urgency and seriousness of the mission.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Yan and Cao Ying: Travel together while exchanging knowledge about the Ancient Domain, the Pill Tower’s suppliers, and the hidden forces of the Central Plains. Cao Ying’s familiarity with the region complements Xiao Yan’s growing awareness.
• Cao Ying and Chen Mu: Their formal but cautious meeting reflects mutual evaluation. Cao Ying acts decisively, while Chen Mu remains skeptical of her youth but accepts her help out of desperation.
• Chen Mu and Chen Hao: Their interaction combines deep brotherly affection with rough, comic hostility. Chen Mu’s forceful medicine-feeding shows how strongly he wants to preserve his brother’s life.
• Chen Hao and Chen Yi: Their argument over the medicinal broth presents a familiar father-son dynamic: Chen Yi is earnest and anxious, while Chen Hao is irritable, proud, and unwilling to accept what he sees as inferior treatment.

Chapter Summary: “Purge Mission”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Yan and Cao Ying visit the Chen Clan to treat Patriarch Chen Hao, who is suffering from a deadly poison left by a powerful ferocious beast.
• Cao Ying examines Chen Hao and discovers that the poison has reached his organs and is beginning to approach his heart meridians. She gives him a Seventh-Grade Meridian-Protecting Pill, which will delay the poison’s advance for ten days.
• The treatment plan requires Cao Ying to refine a Mid-Seventh-Grade antidote pill, while Xiao Yan uses his Heavenly Flames to help neutralize the beast’s poison. The Pill Tower has already prepared the necessary medicinal ingredients.
• That night, Xiao Yan secretly leaves the Chen Clan estate to carry out a separate assignment from Tian Leizi: purging suspected Soul Hall strongholds near the Wild Wasteland Ancient Domain.
• The mission involves checking more than one hundred suspicious locations spread across a huge territory. After searching over ten locations, Xiao Yan finds only two Soul Hall Dou Zong protectors.
• The next morning, Xiao Yan returns and observes Cao Ying refining the antidote. She reaches the final stage of pill fusion but makes a mistake, causing the pill cauldron to explode.
• Xiao Yan and Granny Ye protect Cao Ying from the explosion. Though disappointed, Cao Ying quickly regains her composure and begins analyzing her mistake, knowing she still has two additional sets of ingredients.

Character Developments

• Cao Ying demonstrates both strong medical judgment and exceptional alchemical talent. Although she cannot personally refine an Eighth-Grade Pill, she devises a practical treatment combining her antidote, Xiao Yan’s Heavenly Flames, and the Meridian-Protecting Pill.
• Her failure during the first refinement reveals her determination and maturity. Rather than becoming discouraged, she immediately studies the cause and prepares to try again.
• Xiao Yan shows his growing sense of responsibility by accepting the dangerous Soul Hall-purging mission despite his reluctance. He also supports Cao Ying as a fellow alchemist and protects her during the explosion.
• Chen Hao remains lively and energetic despite his grave condition, while Chen Mu acts as a careful, almost parental guardian toward his unruly elder brother.
• Granny Ye is established as a talkative, humorous, and perceptive protector. She begins teasing Xiao Yan about his relationship with Cao Ying and even tries to play matchmaker.

Significant Themes

• Cooperation and complementary strength: Chen Hao’s treatment depends on Cao Ying’s pill, Xiao Yan’s Heavenly Flames, and the Pill Tower’s preparation working together.
• Determination in the face of failure: Cao Ying’s failed refinement emphasizes that even gifted alchemists must accept setbacks and learn from them.
• Duty versus personal reluctance: Xiao Yan does not want to attract the attention of the Soul Hall’s upper ranks, but he still undertakes the dangerous mission assigned to him.
• Political and personal ambition: Successfully treating Chen Hao could strengthen Cao Ying’s relationship with the Chen Clan and support her larger ambitions within the Pill Tower.
• Humor amid danger: Granny Ye’s stories and matchmaking provide comic relief against the serious threats posed by Chen Hao’s poisoning and the Soul Hall.

Character Interactions

• Cao Ying formally examines Chen Hao while Chen Mu anxiously oversees the treatment and gratefully accepts her protective pill.
• Xiao Yan and Cao Ying work as partners, with their respective flames and alchemy expected to combine in the final detoxification.
• Xiao Yan encounters Granny Ye while sneaking out, escapes her lengthy stories, and later returns to observe Cao Ying’s alchemy beside her.
• After the explosion, Xiao Yan and Granny Ye shield Cao Ying, demonstrating their concern for her safety.
• Granny Ye jokingly suggests that Xiao Yan would make a suitable husband for Cao Ying, embarrassing him and prompting his hurried departure.

Chapter Summary: “Quick! Xiao Yan, I’ll Leave the Rest to You!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Three days after failing to refine the Seventh-Grade Intermediate Detoxification Pill, Cao Ying awakens after repeatedly analyzing her mistake.
• She speaks warmly with Granny Ye, her longtime guard. Their exchange reveals that Cao Ying’s father has considered matching her with Xiao Yan, though Xiao Yan already has another girl beside him.
• Cao Ying prepares to attempt the pill refinement again for the Chen Clan, whose patriarch, Chen Hao, urgently needs the Detoxification Pill.
• Granny Ye gives Cao Ying a rare soul-strengthening liquid, temporarily enhancing her soul power and improving her chances of success.
• Meanwhile, Xiao Yan completes his investigation of locations around Great Wilderness City and discovers a temporary Soul Hall gathering point near the city’s spatial wormhole.
• He deduces that Soul Hall is preparing an ambush against him and Cao Ying when they return. Rather than immediately confronting them, he leaves the captured Soul Hall Protector alive but seals his cultivation, restrains him, and plants a timed fireball on him.
• Xiao Yan returns to the Chen Clan estate and silently enters Cao Ying’s room while she is in the critical final stage of refining.
• Cao Ying successfully merges almost all of the medicinal ingredients, avoiding the mistake that caused her previous failure. However, the soul liquid’s effects begin to fade at the worst possible moment, causing her control to falter and destabilizing the pill embryo.
• Instead of abandoning the attempt or using her final chance, Cao Ying sacrifices part of her blood essence to restore the pill’s vitality and stabilize the medicinal properties.
• The pill embryo finally reaches completion, but the loss of blood essence leaves Cao Ying severely weakened. She can no longer maintain the final condensation process and begins to collapse.
• Granny Ye deliberately pushes Xiao Yan forward, allowing him to catch Cao Ying. From his arms, Cao Ying recognizes him and entrusts him with completing the pill: “Quick! Xiao Yan, I’ll leave the rest to you!”

Character Developments

• Cao Ying: Demonstrates exceptional resilience, intelligence, and determination. She carefully learns from her previous failure, successfully resolves the earlier problem, and willingly sacrifices her own vitality rather than give up. Her pride and sense of responsibility are clear, especially because the pill concerns Chen Hao’s life and her reputation as a gifted alchemist.
• Xiao Yan: Shows growing strategic awareness and confidence. He methodically investigates Soul Hall’s movements, anticipates their planned ambush, and quietly returns to assist Cao Ying without disturbing her concentration. His expertise as an alchemist positions him to finish the pill when Cao Ying can no longer continue.
• Granny Ye: Acts as both Cao Ying’s devoted guardian and an affectionate elder figure. She teases Cao Ying about marriage, supports her with the precious soul liquid, recognizes the danger during the refinement, and intentionally places Xiao Yan in position to help her.
• Cao Ying’s father: Though absent, he influences the chapter through the revelation that he may favor a relationship between Cao Ying and Xiao Yan.

Significant Themes

• Perseverance and learning from failure: Cao Ying does not repeat her previous mistake and uses reflection to improve her technique.
• Sacrifice and responsibility: She gives up part of her blood essence to save the pill, placing Chen Hao’s survival and the success of the mission above her own well-being.
• Trust and cooperation: Cao Ying ultimately entrusts the final stage to Xiao Yan, reflecting her confidence in his skill.
• Threat beneath apparent calm: While the pill refinement unfolds indoors, Xiao Yan discovers that Soul Hall is preparing a coordinated attack, emphasizing the danger surrounding the group.
• Affection and familial bonds: The playful relationship between Cao Ying and Granny Ye resembles that of grandmother and granddaughter, while Granny Ye’s matchmaking hints at Cao Ying’s possible feelings and future relationship with Xiao Yan.

Character Interactions

• Cao Ying and Granny Ye share a warm, familiar exchange involving Cao Ying’s recovery, marriage prospects, and Xiao Yan.
• Granny Ye provides Cao Ying with the soul liquid and insists that she use it, combining tenderness with firm protection.
• Xiao Yan and Granny Ye communicate silently when he enters the room, with Granny Ye becoming startled by his ability to approach unnoticed.
• Granny Ye pushes Xiao Yan into catching the collapsing Cao Ying, creating an intimate but practical moment between them.
• The chapter ends with Cao Ying, exhausted but trusting, placing the pill’s completion—and implicitly her immediate safety—in Xiao Yan’s hands.

Chapter Summary: “Collision”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Cao Ying reminds Xiao Yan to take over the pill-refining process. Xiao Yan unleashes the Bone Spirit Cold Fire, whose nature changes inside the cauldron and successfully suppresses the Blood Demon Flame.
• Cao Ying transfers control of the embryonic Seventh-Grade pill to Xiao Yan, then collapses from exhaustion and falls asleep on his shoulder. Xiao Yan remains completely focused on completing the refinement and fails to notice her.
• Granny Ye is frustrated that the intimate situation produces no romantic progress between the two, despite her efforts to bring them together.
• At the Chen Residence, Chen Li attempts to give his injured father, Chen Hao, his medicine. Chen Hao continues teasing and provoking him, while Chen Mu anxiously waits for news about the pill.
• A massive phenomenon announces the completion of the Seventh-Grade pill, confirming that Cao Ying and Xiao Yan succeeded. The Chen family celebrates because Chen Hao can now be cured.
• Chen Hao considers giving Xiao Yan and Cao Ying the Chen Clan’s valuable map of the Wild Wasteland Ancient Domain as a reward. Chen Mu and Chen Li strongly object, since the map contains vital information about dangerous beasts and hunting grounds. Chen Hao postpones the decision.
• Xiao Yan gives Chen Hao the refined Detoxification Pill and uses his Heavenly Flames to purge the poison from Chen Hao’s wound. Chen Hao rapidly recovers, then warmly invites Xiao Yan and Cao Ying to remain for a banquet.
• Xiao Yan returns to Cao Ying, who has awakened. Both remember that she slept against his shoulder, creating an awkward but restrained romantic moment. Xiao Yan quickly changes the subject by asking Cao Ying to manage the banquet while he handles another task.
• That night, Song Qing secretly gathers more than a dozen Soul Hall Protectors. He announces that their mission is to capture Xiao Yan alive as he leaves the Chen Clan for the Pill Tower.
• Song Qing incites the Protectors with promises of Soul Points, cultivation resources, power, and rewards from a Soul Hall Venerable Elder. Just as the group prepares to depart, an unidentified young man appears to join them, ending the chapter on a suspenseful note.

Character Developments

• Xiao Yan: Demonstrates increasing mastery of Heavenly Flames and pill refinement by successfully taking over the final stage of a difficult Mid-Seventh-Grade pill. He remains disciplined and mission-focused, though his obliviousness to Cao Ying’s feelings frustrates Granny Ye.
• Cao Ying: Shows strong trust in Xiao Yan by handing him control of the pill at a critical moment. Her exhaustion reveals the physical cost of her effort, while her embarrassment upon remembering their closeness hints at growing romantic awareness.
• Granny Ye: Becomes increasingly exasperated by Xiao Yan and Cao Ying’s emotional restraint. She recognizes their potential intimacy but feels that both remain blind to it.
• Chen Hao: Reveals himself as more than a crude, injured patriarch. Once healed, he resumes his authoritative demeanor and demonstrates strategic intelligence, especially regarding the value of the map and the political situation between the Pill Tower and Soul Hall.
• Chen Mu and Chen Li: Their concern for Chen Hao emphasizes their loyalty to the family. They are relieved by his recovery but remain nervous about his willingness to give away the clan’s most important asset.
• Song Qing: Acts as an ambitious and manipulative commander. He uses promises of rewards and personal advancement to motivate the Soul Hall Protectors, despite their apparent disdain for him.

Significant Themes

• Cooperation and trust: Xiao Yan and Cao Ying’s successful relay-style refinement depends on their ability to transfer control smoothly and rely on each other.
• Duty versus romance: Their physical closeness suggests growing intimacy, but both prioritize their work and responsibilities over emotional expression.
• Power and strategic resources: The Chen Clan’s map symbolizes the importance of knowledge and territorial information in a world governed by strength and survival.
• Political conflict: The Soul Hall’s plan to ambush Xiao Yan shows the escalating danger surrounding his connection to the Pill Tower and the broader conflict between major powers.
• Strength and status: Chen Hao’s recovery restores not only his health but also his authority, while Soul Hall’s promises reveal how power, rewards, and advancement motivate its members.

Important Character Interactions

• Xiao Yan and Cao Ying: They cooperate closely in refining the pill, with Cao Ying entrusting Xiao Yan with the decisive final stage. Their later embarrassment indicates increasing mutual awareness, though neither openly acknowledges it.
• Granny Ye and the pair: Granny Ye observes their restrained relationship and reacts with comic frustration to their lack of romantic progress.
• Chen Hao, Chen Mu, and Chen Li: Their family dynamic combines concern, irritation, and humor. Chen Mu and Chen Li try to prevent Chen Hao from sacrificing the clan’s map, while Chen Hao maintains control of the situation.
• Xiao Yan and Chen Hao: Xiao Yan cures Chen Hao, earning his gratitude and respect. Chen Hao’s perceptiveness also leaves Xiao Yan wary that his secrets may not be completely hidden.
• Song Qing and the Soul Hall Protectors: Song Qing rallies the Protectors through promises of wealth and power, transforming their initial indifference into enthusiasm for hunting Xiao Yan.

Chapter Summary: “Mu Gu the Venerable”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Yan unexpectedly encounters Song Qing commanding a group of Soul Hall guardians.
• Song Qing panics at first, fearing that Xiao Yan has been followed by Pill Tower forces. Once he realizes Xiao Yan is alone, he regains his arrogance and attempts to incite the Soul Hall guardians against him.
• Song Qing offers the guardians Soul Points and a seventh-grade high-tier Nine-Soul Soul-Casting Pill as rewards for capturing Xiao Yan.
• The Soul Hall guardians attack Xiao Yan with black mist, chains, and soul-based techniques.
• Xiao Yan reveals that his apparent One-Star Battle Ancestor cultivation is deceptive. His strength rises first to the Five-Star and then to the Seven-Star Battle Ancestor level.
• When several Peak Battle Ancestors charge him, Xiao Yan unleashes a devastating violet flame attack, instantly annihilating all the Soul Hall guardians, including Song Qing.
• Xiao Yan uses spatial power to contain the destruction within a limited area, preventing the battle from attracting unwanted attention.
• Afterward, he retrieves Song Qing’s Soul Token containing one hundred thousand Soul Points, though the other Soul Tokens are destroyed in the blast.
• A mysterious black-robed observer later searches the ruins, recovers a bronze mirror that recorded the confrontation, and confirms Xiao Yan’s strength.
• The observer reports to Mu Gu the Venerable that Xiao Yan possesses Battle Venerable-level combat power and that the entire Soul Hall force has been wiped out.
• Mu Gu becomes increasingly determined to obtain Xiao Yan’s Flame Mantra. Recognizing that he cannot defeat Xiao Yan alone, he decides to seek reliable allies and orders Granny Ye to remain undercover.

Character Developments

• Xiao Yan: Displays overwhelming confidence, tactical intelligence, and restraint. He deliberately conceals his true power, manipulates his enemies psychologically, controls the battle’s collateral damage, and shows his growing ability to fight across major cultivation levels.
• Song Qing: His cowardice and opportunism are exposed. He quickly shifts from panic to arrogance, relying on Soul Hall rewards and empty authority to control the guardians. His desperation to eliminate Xiao Yan ultimately leads to his death.
• Soul Hall Guardians: Their greed overrides their caution. The promised Soul Points and soul pill drive them to attack despite Xiao Yan’s increasingly threatening aura.
• Mu Gu the Venerable: Learns that Xiao Yan’s Flame Mantra is far more powerful than expected. His fear is tempered by intense greed, but he recognizes the need for allies rather than confronting Xiao Yan directly.
• Granny Ye: Is revealed to be Mu Gu’s covert agent, secretly observing events and carrying out his orders.

Significant Themes

• Deception and hidden strength: Xiao Yan’s apparently weak cultivation masks his true Battle Venerable-level combat ability.
• Greed and betrayal: Song Qing and the guardians are motivated by Soul Points, rewards, and personal advancement, while Song Qing’s betrayal of the Pill Tower exposes his moral corruption.
• Power and ambition: Mu Gu’s desire for the Flame Mantra intensifies after witnessing its potential, foreshadowing future conflict.
• Confidence versus recklessness: Xiao Yan remains calm and calculated, while his enemies allow greed and overconfidence to cloud their judgment.
• The danger of forbidden or extraordinary power: The Flame Mantra is shown to enable strength far beyond normal cultivation limits, making it an object of fear and desire.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Yan mocks Song Qing for allying with the Soul Hall, while Song Qing desperately denies the obvious collusion.
• Song Qing attempts to rally the Soul Hall guardians through promises of rewards and the authority of the Venerable Elder.
• Xiao Yan toys with Song Qing by falsely claiming that the Soul Hall group is surrounded, exposing Song Qing’s lingering cowardice.
• Song Qing and the guardians underestimate Xiao Yan, only to be overwhelmed by his hidden strength and violet flame.
• After the battle, the black-robed observer reports Xiao Yan’s power to Mu Gu, prompting Mu Gu to begin planning how to acquire the Flame Mantra through outside allies.

Chapter Summary: “Blood Flame Rampage”

Key Plot Points and Events

• After curing Chen Clan patriarch Chen Hao, Xiao Yan is intercepted privately by him atop a corner tower.
• Chen Hao proposes an alliance to explore a potential ancient hidden realm emerging within the Wild Wasteland Ancient Domain.
• He explains that the domain is extremely dangerous because both magical beasts and humans can lose their intelligence there. However, its ancient environment has preserved valuable legacies and treasures.
• Chen Hao’s treasure-seeking magical beasts sensed unusual activity deep within the domain, while even the ferocious beasts there became restless. He believes a major inheritance or hidden realm is about to appear.
• Chen Hao gives Xiao Yan a detailed map of the Wild Wasteland Ancient Domain as a sign of sincerity and promises to notify him when the hidden realm emerges.
• Xiao Yan accepts the alliance, privately suspecting that the disturbance may be connected to the future appearance of the Bodhi Ancient Tree.
• Their friendly conversation is abruptly interrupted by a massive explosion from the courtyard where Cao Ying is staying.
• Cao Ying had begun refining the essence blood of an Eighth Rank fire-attributed magical beast, obtained as payment from the Chen Clan.
• Although the refinement initially proceeded smoothly, an abnormal soul force suddenly erupted within her soul sea while she was in a vulnerable state. This caused her Blood Demon Flame to spiral out of control, engulfing the surrounding courtyards.
• Xiao Yan refuses Chen Hao’s offer to create a passage through the flames, instead ordering him to evacuate the nearby Chen Clan disciples. He then enters the blazing courtyard alone using his Heavenly Flame.
• Inside the room, Xiao Yan discovers an entirely uncovered Cao Ying, ending the chapter on a dramatic cliffhanger.

Character Developments

• Xiao Yan: Displays caution, strategic judgment, and confidence. He remains wary of Chen Hao but recognizes the benefits of the alliance and agrees because of his knowledge of the Bodhi Ancient Tree. His priorities become clear when he immediately risks entering Cao Ying’s rampaging flames to save her.
• Chen Hao: Reveals himself to be shrewd, humorous, and politically perceptive. He understands Xiao Yan’s value as a powerful alchemist backed by the Pill Tower and seeks him as an ideal partner rather than a subordinate. He also shows tact by accepting Xiao Yan’s suspicion and helping evacuate his clansmen.
• Cao Ying: Demonstrates her skill and ambition as an alchemist by attempting to refine powerful Eighth Rank magical beast essence blood. However, the unexpected soul-force disturbance leaves her vulnerable and triggers a dangerous loss of control over her Blood Demon Flame.
• Chen Mu: Acts as a host and facilitator for Cao Ying, bringing her to the treasure vault and arranging protection during her refinement.

Significant Themes

• Alliance and mutual benefit: Chen Hao’s proposal is based on the complementary strengths of the two sides—Xiao Yan’s combat power, medicinal pills, alchemical abilities, and powerful backing, combined with the Chen Clan’s local knowledge and resources.
• Caution amid trust: Although Chen Hao appears sincere, Xiao Yan remains alert to possible deception, emphasizing the danger of relying too quickly on powerful factions.
• Hidden opportunities and destiny: The possible emergence of an ancient realm foreshadows major treasures and may be connected to the Bodhi Ancient Tree, suggesting that Xiao Yan’s choices are drawing him toward important future opportunities.
• Dangerous power and loss of control: Cao Ying’s attempt to strengthen her flame demonstrates both the rewards and risks of pursuing greater power. Even a highly skilled alchemist can be overwhelmed when external energy and soul disturbances coincide.
• Protective responsibility: Xiao Yan’s immediate decision to rescue Cao Ying, while ensuring Chen Clan members are evacuated, highlights his growing sense of responsibility toward allies and companions.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Yan and Chen Hao engage in a witty, cautious negotiation. Chen Hao jokes about knowing Xiao Yan “inside and out,” referring both to Xiao Yan’s physique after the poison treatment and the destruction he caused outside the city.
• Chen Hao deliberately treats Xiao Yan as an equal, offering him tea, sharing intelligence, and proposing that they address each other as brothers.
• Xiao Yan accepts the alliance but maintains emotional and strategic distance, especially after the explosion raises the possibility that the Chen Clan may be involved.
• During the crisis, Chen Hao offers practical assistance, while Xiao Yan firmly takes personal responsibility for entering the flames and rescuing Cao Ying.
• The chapter ends with Xiao Yan encountering Cao Ying in a compromising and dangerous situation, setting up both potential embarrassment and an urgent rescue.

Chapter Summary

Key plot points and events

• A remnant of Song Qing’s separated soul attacks Cao Ying within her Soul Sea. The remnant, apparently planted by Song Qing through Soul Hall techniques, repeatedly reforms whenever Cao Ying destroys it and grows stronger by absorbing her soul power.
• The remnant becomes increasingly grotesque and insane, nearly overpowering Cao Ying and leaving her unable to defend herself.
• Xiao Yan intervenes by attacking it with a Soul-Breaking Nail, which exposes the remnant’s connection to the Soul Hall and briefly disrupts it.
• Xiao Yan enters Cao Ying’s Soul Sea and identifies the creature as a control or hypnosis technique made from a fragment of Song Qing’s soul.
• Using the Falling Heart Flame, strengthened by his other Heavenly Flames, Xiao Yan completely burns away and destroys the remnant.
• Cao Ying realizes Song Qing’s collusion with the Soul Hall may indicate a larger conspiracy within the Pill Tower. She insists they report the matter and investigate his possible followers.
• Xiao Yan repeatedly delays leaving by teasing Cao Ying and hinting that he has more to explain. He eventually exits her Soul Sea first, only for Cao Ying to awaken and discover that her body is completely naked, prompting a mortified scream.

Character developments

• Cao Ying: Demonstrates considerable soul power and resilience, repeatedly fighting the remnant despite its regenerative abilities. However, she is pushed into genuine fear and helplessness when it evolves beyond her control. After Xiao Yan saves her, she becomes playful and flirtatious again, sincerely thanks him, and quickly shifts from personal embarrassment to sharp political judgment about Song Qing’s betrayal.
• Xiao Yan: Shows his superior understanding of soul techniques and effortlessly recognizes the remnant’s nature. He remains calm and confident while protecting Cao Ying, using the Falling Heart Flame to eliminate the threat. His teasing behavior reveals his growing comfort and familiarity with Cao Ying, though he also deliberately avoids immediately explaining the embarrassing situation surrounding her body.
• Song Qing’s remnant: Retains only fragments of Song Qing’s identity and emotions, especially his obsession with Cao Ying and hatred of Xiao Yan. It degenerates into a mindless, lust-driven monster, symbolizing the corruption and sinister methods associated with the Soul Hall.

Significant themes

• Corruption and obsession: Song Qing’s love has become grotesque possession, while his remnant physically deteriorates as his sanity disappears.
• The danger of Soul Hall techniques: The chapter emphasizes that even a fragment of a dead person’s soul can be used for hidden control and psychological attacks.
• Trust and rescue: Xiao Yan’s intervention deepens Cao Ying’s respect and gratitude toward him, while their banter shows a developing personal rapport.
• Relief after terror: The frightening confrontation shifts into comedic embarrassment, contrasting Cao Ying’s near-death experience with Xiao Yan’s teasing and her final shocked realization.

Character interactions

• Cao Ying fights the remnant alone and angrily rejects its claims of love.
• Xiao Yan protects and reassures her, while Cao Ying intentionally embraces him partly to provoke Song Qing’s jealousy and partly because she is still shaken.
• After the battle, the two exchange flirtatious teasing about whether Cao Ying was frightened and whether Xiao Yan wanted to keep holding her.
• Cao Ying seriously offers Xiao Yan a favor in gratitude, then urges him to report Song Qing’s Soul Hall connection.
• Xiao Yan’s suspicious stalling culminates in Cao Ying realizing he was delaying her return because he knew she was naked, ending the chapter with her embarrassed scream.

Chapter Summary: Soul Suppression Token, Soul Suppression Points

Key Plot Points and Events

• After escaping the collapsing, burning guest room, Xiao Yan and Cao Ying experience an awkward moment because Xiao Yan accidentally saw Cao Ying undressed while she was changing. Their embarrassment is interrupted when Chen Hao arrives, relieved to find them unharmed.
• On their return to the Pill Tower, Tian Leizi intercepts them with a squad of Pill Guards and reveals that Song Qing has been killed. Song Qing’s Soul Lamp went out, and letters found in his room proved that he had secretly colluded with Soul Hall.
• The letters indicated that Song Qing had asked Granny Ye to give Cao Ying an unknown secret medicine. The Pill Tower suspects Cao Ying may have been drugged and orders President Xuan Yi to examine her.
• Cao Ying is devastated by the possibility that Granny Ye, her longtime personal guard and someone she regards as family, betrayed her. Xiao Yan suggests that Granny Ye may have been acting under coercion rather than for personal gain.
• Tian Leizi takes the information Xiao Yan gathered about Soul Hall outposts near Great Wilderness City and orders the Pill Guards to search for additional Soul Hall traces and Granny Ye.
• Granny Ye returns to Mu Gu, a Battle Venerable-level Soul Hall member. Mu Gu distrusts her explanation that Song Qing’s exposure forced her to flee, suspecting that her escape was too convenient. Nevertheless, he spares her because she may still be useful, while intimidating her with his power.
• After leaving, Granny Ye curses Mu Gu, revealing that she is resentful and fearful rather than genuinely loyal. Mu Gu then receives another captive: a young alchemist forcibly brought before him.
• Back at the Pill Tower, Xiao Yan reports to Tian Leizi that he eliminated Song Qing and fifteen other powerful Soul Hall members during the mission, as well as five Soul Hall Protectors while destroying their outposts.
• Xiao Yan presents his Soul Suppression Token, the Pill Tower equivalent of Soul Hall’s Soul Token. It records his kills and automatically registers the ranks of nearby enemies he defeats.
• His accomplishments earn him 1,080,000 Soul Suppression Points, along with promotion-related benefits, medicinal supplies, and recognition as a Pill Guard squad captain.
• Tian Leizi warns Xiao Yan to remain discreet and avoid revealing his new status. Xiao Yan’s achievements have already made him a major target for Soul Hall, and excessive publicity could provoke a Half-Saint-level enemy.
• Tian Leizi finally gives Xiao Yan the magic core of the Scorpion Venom Dragon Beast, the primary objective of the mission.

Character Developments

• Xiao Yan demonstrates honesty and restraint during his awkward interaction with Cao Ying. He also shows compassion by defending the possibility that Granny Ye was coerced.
• Xiao Yan’s combat achievements elevate him from a promising One-Star Battle Ancestor to a figure capable of results comparable to a Battle Venerable. His influence within the Pill Tower increases substantially.
• Cao Ying shifts from embarrassment and irritation to emotional vulnerability after learning of Granny Ye’s suspected betrayal. Her faith in someone she considered family is deeply shaken.
• Tian Leizi becomes more impressed with Xiao Yan’s abilities but remains cautious, recognizing both his potential and the danger he now faces.
• Granny Ye is exposed as a compromised or treacherous figure. Although terrified of Mu Gu, she hides resentment beneath outward submission and may have reasons for cooperating with Soul Hall.
• Mu Gu is shown to be suspicious, calculating, and cruel. He uses fear to control his subordinates but preserves useful assets instead of acting impulsively.

Significant Themes

• Betrayal and broken trust: Cao Ying’s pain comes less from the possible drugging itself than from Granny Ye’s betrayal after years of familial loyalty.
• Loyalty versus coercion: The chapter leaves open whether Granny Ye acted willingly or under pressure, emphasizing the complicated motives behind alliances with Soul Hall.
• Secrecy and strategic restraint: Tian Leizi stresses that Xiao Yan must conceal his advancement, reinforcing the danger of becoming too prominent in a hostile political environment.
• Institutional rivalry: The Pill Tower and Soul Hall mirror one another through their Soul Suppression Tokens and Soul Tokens, emphasizing their centuries-long conflict.
• Power and recognition: Xiao Yan’s large accumulation of contribution points grants him status and resources, but also makes him more visible and vulnerable.

Important Character Interactions

• Xiao Yan and Cao Ying: Their uncomfortable exchange after Cao Ying changes clothes adds humor and intimacy, while Xiao Yan’s later reassurance strengthens their emotional connection.
• Xiao Yan and Chen Hao: Their cordial interaction confirms that Chen Hao was likely uninvolved in the ambush and preserves the possibility of future cooperation.
• Cao Ying and Tian Leizi: Cao Ying urgently seeks information about Granny Ye, while Tian Leizi delivers the devastating news about Song Qing and the secret medicine.
• Xiao Yan and Tian Leizi: Their debrief establishes Xiao Yan’s extraordinary accomplishments, earns him rewards, and leads to Tian Leizi’s warning about maintaining a low profile.
• Mu Gu and Granny Ye: Their exchange reveals the atmosphere of fear within Soul Hall. Mu Gu doubts Granny Ye but keeps her alive because she may remain useful, while Granny Ye outwardly obeys and inwardly despises him.