Chapter Summaries

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin Fen and Sun Yating continue their playful bargaining over meals, with Sun teasing him about accidentally brushing against her and joking about letting him examine her “tight chest.”
• Sun reveals that Ye Jinmin, who visited her the previous day, wants to purchase one of Qin Fen’s orchids and is willing to pay a high price.
• Qin agrees to sell his final orchid but refuses to meet Ye personally, using Sun as an intermediary to avoid attention and test her trustworthiness.
• Ye visits Sun’s restaurant and notices that Qin’s cooking is unusually refined, both in taste and presentation.
• After finishing work, Qin returns home, retrieves the last pot of orchids, and sends it to Sun’s office through a server.
• Ye recognizes the orchid as an extremely rare and possibly new variety. Although orchid prices have declined, the three-shoot plant remains highly valuable.
• Sun negotiates the sale and accepts Ye’s offer of two million yuan for the entire plant—six hundred thousand yuan per shoot.
• Ye immediately transfers the money to a bank card and leaves with the orchid.
• Sun gives the card to Qin, who is initially unable to believe that the flower earned two million yuan. His excitement convinces him that Flower-Fruit Mountain contains many profitable treasures.
• Qin begins considering how to contact the Great Sage and explore more valuable resources from Flower-Fruit Mountain.

Character Developments

• Qin Fen shows himself to be increasingly calculating and business-minded. He avoids meeting Ye directly, protects his identity, and relies on Sun to assess the buyer and secure a fair deal. The sale also strengthens his confidence in earning money independently.
• Sun Yating continues to tease Qin and enjoys exposing his awkwardness, but she also proves herself to be a capable, trustworthy business intermediary. She handles the negotiation decisively and does not exploit Qin’s lack of knowledge about orchid prices.
• Ye Jinmin shifts from being primarily interested in Sun to recognizing the extraordinary value of Qin’s orchid. His willingness to pay immediately demonstrates both his wealth and his desire to obtain rare plants.
• Qin’s thoughts about the Great Sage reveal that he views the monkey as a potentially valuable ally despite finding him irritating.

Significant Themes

• Commercial opportunity and hidden wealth: A seemingly ordinary local orchid turns out to be worth two million yuan, revealing the immense economic potential of Flower-Fruit Mountain.
• Trust and mutual testing: Qin tests Sun by having her negotiate on his behalf, while Sun recognizes his schemes but still cooperates with him.
• Independence and ambition: Qin’s first major profit marks the beginning of his desire to earn money rather than remain dependent on others.
• Humor and flirtatious tension: Qin and Sun’s relationship develops through teasing, mock threats, meal negotiations, and mutual attempts to embarrass one another.
• Hidden value: The chapter emphasizes that extraordinary treasures may appear ordinary to those unfamiliar with their true worth.

Character Interactions

• Qin and Sun exchange flirtatious banter, with Sun deliberately provoking Qin and Qin responding through shameless bargaining.
• Qin entrusts Sun with the orchid sale, demonstrating practical trust despite his cautious nature.
• Sun and Ye interact professionally during the negotiation, with Sun maintaining control while Ye struggles to hide his excitement over the rare orchid.
• After the sale, Sun surprises Qin with the two-million-yuan result, and his stunned reaction highlights the importance of the transaction.

Chapter Summary

Key plot points and events

• Qin Fen celebrates earning a large amount of money from his work and is deeply impressed by Teacher Muteng Lan’s acting.
• Ye Jinmin purchases a top-grade Arrow Orchid, intending to use it as a gift and gain favor with Secretary Sun and possibly Secretary Huang. He believes the value of a gift depends not only on the object but also on the influence of the recipient.
• Matchmaker Yue is delighted because the Gold-Bearded Daoist has already persuaded several powerful immortals—including the difficult Li Family and the Thunder Department’s Wen Zhong—to attend an upcoming event. Yue can now simply take credit for the results.
• Ye Xiang visits his parents instead of going home and considers using his father’s connections to help establish a private club.
• Ye Jinmin unexpectedly returns home early with the orchid. He reveals that it cost two million and that he hired someone for three thousand per month solely to care for it.
• Ye Xiang and his mother are shocked by Ye Jinmin’s extreme protectiveness and by the flower’s enormous price. Ye Jinmin refuses even to let Ye Xiang touch it.

Character developments

• Qin Fen is shown as ambitious and emotionally affected by both his financial success and his admiration for professional talent.
• Ye Jinmin demonstrates his practical, politically calculating nature. He views the orchid as an investment and a tool for advancing his career, despite genuinely appreciating its beauty.
• Ye Xiang remains proud and independent, insisting that his achievements should not be attributed entirely to his family. His disbelief at the orchid’s price highlights his relative lack of understanding of elite social gifts and luxury collectibles.
• Matchmaker Yue is unusually cheerful because the difficult work of arranging the immortals has effectively been done for him.
• Ye Xiang’s mother provides a skeptical, grounded contrast to Ye Jinmin’s fascination with the orchid.

Significant themes

• Status and influence: The orchid’s importance comes partly from its association with Secretary Sun, showing how objects gain value through social connections.
• Money and ambition: Ye Jinmin prioritizes career advancement and strategic relationships over simple personal enjoyment.
• Generational and personal values: Ye Xiang sees flowers as impractical, while his father views the purchase as both meaningful and profitable.
• Appearances and social networks: Gifts, elite contacts, and reputation are presented as essential tools for gaining power.
• Humor through excess: The family’s disbelief over a two-million flower and the three-thousand-yuan monthly caretaker creates much of the chapter’s comic effect.

Character interactions

• Ye Jinmin and Ye Xiang clash over the meaning and value of the orchid, with Ye Jinmin acting possessive and dismissive of his son’s objections.
• Ye Xiang’s mother openly criticizes both her husband’s obsession and her son’s unwillingness to join the family business.
• Ye Jinmin presents himself to Ye Xiang as a knowledgeable collector while concealing the orchid’s true purpose as a political gift.
• Matchmaker Yue’s satisfaction contrasts with the Gold-Bearded Daoist’s unseen but highly effective negotiations with powerful immortals.

Chapter Summary: “I Ran Into an Idiot”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin Fen spends the day enthusiastically working in the kitchen, experimenting with dishes and combining his own observations with the Food God’s inherited knowledge.
• He secretly studies the newly hired chef’s specialty dry-pot dish made with bullfrog, tendon, and shrimp. Qin notices the chef uses pickled vegetables and records the technique to expand his modern culinary knowledge rather than relying entirely on traditional methods.
• Believing Qin is about to critique him, the new chef nervously asks for guidance. Qin, despite actually trying to learn from him, improvises an authoritative critique.
• Qin advises the chef to adapt the heavily spiced Mian Y-style dish to local tastes by adding cucumber and onion to soften the heat and introduce sweetness.
• The chef accepts Qin’s advice with great respect and immediately remakes the dish. Qin’s praise greatly boosts his confidence and motivation.
• After work, Qin returns to his quiet home, reflecting that he prefers a peaceful, ordinary life over dramatic adventures.
• At home, he encounters Ye Xiang, an arrogant rival who mocks Qin’s scooter and art collection. Qin retaliates by joking about an “idiot” who paid two million for one of his flowers.
• Ye Xiang agrees that such a buyer must be foolish, only to realize that his own father, Ye Jinmin, was the person who bought Qin’s flower for exactly two million. The chapter ends with Ye Xiang recognizing that Qin has unknowingly insulted his family.

Character Developments

• Qin Fen: Demonstrates remarkable culinary talent, adaptability, and confidence. He cleverly disguises his attempt to learn from the new chef as expert instruction. He also reveals a mischievous, retaliatory side when dealing with Ye Xiang.
• The new chef: Initially intimidated by Qin, he comes to admire him deeply. Qin’s encouragement renews his enthusiasm and makes him eager to improve, despite being older and previously authoritative in his own restaurant.
• Ye Xiang: Remains proud, sarcastic, and hostile toward Qin. His confidence collapses when he realizes that Qin’s “idiot” is actually his father, turning his own mockery against him.
• The apprentices: Treat Qin as a legendary master and eagerly watch his interaction with the chef, reinforcing Qin’s reputation in the restaurant.

Significant Themes

• Adaptation over rigid tradition: Qin emphasizes that authentic regional cooking must be adjusted to suit local tastes. Tradition is valuable, but usefulness depends on whether people actually enjoy it.
• Learning and humility: Even a master like Qin continues studying others, showing that improvement requires openness and observation.
• Appearances and misunderstandings: The chef assumes Qin is offering guidance when Qin is really gathering knowledge, while Ye Xiang mistakenly joins in insulting the very person connected to his own family.
• Quiet fulfillment: Qin values a stable, ordinary life and finds satisfaction in routine rather than seeking constant excitement.
• Pride and status: The chef’s reverence for Qin and Ye Xiang’s arrogance highlight how reputation and social standing shape people’s behavior.

Character Interactions

• Qin and the new chef interact through a humorous reversal: the supposed student is secretly learning from the supposed master, yet ends up giving useful advice.
• Qin’s praise inspires the chef, who responds with renewed energy and immediately applies the recommendation.
• Qin and Ye Xiang exchange veiled insults. Qin’s joke about the two-million-yuan flower unintentionally humiliates Ye Xiang by exposing his father as the “idiot” buyer.

Chapter Summary: “Buy a Car, Make It Big”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ye Xiang realizes that the expensive purple-clay flowerpot his father, Ye Jinmin, bought for two million yuan is the same type of pot—and possibly the same one—he saw at Qin Fen’s home.
• This forces Ye Xiang to confront the absurd possibility that his father was deceived into paying an enormous price for a potted flower. Qin Fen casually agrees with Ye Xiang’s judgment that the buyer was foolish, unknowingly leading Ye Xiang into insulting his own father.
• Ye Xiang is humiliated further when he remembers that he had previously mocked Qin Fen’s flowers and even helped plant trees at Qin Fen’s request. He is left furious and embarrassed after Qin Fen walks away.
• Qin Fen spends the next day planning his future business. With approximately 2.5 million yuan available, he decides to establish a private teahouse and leisure venue at his villa that will also serve high-end private cuisine.
• Rather than serving ordinary customers, Qin Fen intends to target a discreet, wealthy clientele. He plans to use Merit and Heavenly Court Yellow Mud to grow rare, valuable flowers, herbs, fruits, and vegetables in limited quantities.
• Realizing that his scooter will be inadequate for transporting supplies and materials, Qin Fen decides to buy a large, powerful, masculine car.
• Sun Yating overhears his plans and offers to accompany him car shopping in exchange for his help watering the plants in her office.
• She deliberately gives her instructions loudly and ambiguously, making the nearby waitresses think Qin Fen is involved in an intimate relationship with her. Qin Fen becomes deeply embarrassed while Sun Yating appears amused.

Character Development

• Qin Fen becomes increasingly ambitious and practical. He moves beyond merely earning money from flowers and begins constructing a long-term business plan centered on luxury hospitality, private cuisine, and rare agricultural products.
• He also shows a preference for secrecy and controlled growth, recognizing that a private establishment will reduce regulatory complications and prevent unwanted attention.
• Ye Xiang suffers another major blow to his pride. His arrogance toward Qin Fen’s flowers is exposed as foolish, and his attempts to judge Qin Fen’s business acumen backfire disastrously.
• Sun Yating continues to demonstrate her playful, provocative personality. She enjoys teasing Qin Fen, deliberately putting him in embarrassing situations while also showing practical interest in his plans.
• Ye Jinmin, though mostly offscreen, is characterized through Ye Xiang’s reactions as a wealthy but potentially impulsive buyer whose purchase becomes a source of humiliation for his son.

Significant Themes

• Humiliation and reversed status: Ye Xiang, who previously looked down on Qin Fen, is forced to recognize that Qin Fen’s supposedly worthless flowers can command extraordinary prices.
• Appearances versus true value: The chapter contrasts Ye Xiang’s superficial judgments with the hidden value of Qin Fen’s plants and cultivation methods.
• Entrepreneurship and strategic growth: Qin Fen carefully plans how to turn his resources into a discreet, high-end business rather than expanding recklessly.
• Privacy and exclusivity: The proposed teahouse reflects Qin Fen’s desire to make money quietly through a select group of regular customers.
• Playful romantic tension: Sun Yating’s teasing and Qin Fen’s embarrassment create an increasingly flirtatious dynamic between them.

Character Interactions

• Qin Fen verbally outmaneuvers Ye Xiang without even realizing the full family connection, causing Ye Xiang to insult his own father and feel doubly humiliated.
• Qin Fen and Sun Yating discuss his plans for the private teahouse. She understands the advantages of a discreet business and offers to help him choose a car.
• Sun Yating then manipulates an innocent request for a water bucket into a suggestive public exchange, prompting the waitresses to gossip that she and Qin Fen are romantically involved.

Chapter Summary

Plot and events

Qin Fen and Sun Yating travel in her Mercedes-AMG to the city’s largest imported-car dealership. Qin Fen, still irritated by the waitresses’ mistaken impression of him, remains quiet and avoids explaining himself. At the dealership, Sun Yating adopts a distant, polished persona and lets Qin choose the vehicle. After looking over Volkswagen and Audi SUVs, Qin rejects the relatively tame-looking models and becomes interested in a massive American pickup—the Ford Raptor F-150. He examines it, approves of its size, durability, off-road ability, and cargo capacity, then immediately purchases the luxury version for 560,000.

Character developments

Qin Fen is portrayed as restrained, practical, and confident. Although he is inexperienced at buying cars, he does not act excited or showy. His decision is based on utility and his plans for future business rather than status or appearance. His quiet demeanor causes the saleswoman to mistake him for someone dependent on Sun Yating, but paying with his own card reveals that he is financially capable. Sun Yating demonstrates her socially intimidating “thousand-faced enchantress” persona, yet she is also surprisingly accommodating, allowing Qin to make the decision and supporting his unconventional choice.

Significant themes

The chapter emphasizes appearances versus reality. Sun Yating’s elegant but unapproachable image influences how others interpret the pair, while Qin Fen’s quietness makes him seem insignificant or dependent despite his wealth. It also highlights Qin’s individuality and practicality: rather than choosing a fashionable luxury SUV or sports car, he selects a rugged vehicle suited to his future ambitions. The exaggerated focus on the dealership’s saleswomen and Qin’s wandering attention adds comic, irreverent humor.

Character interactions

Sun Yating and Qin Fen maintain a teasing but cooperative dynamic. She repeatedly directs the saleswoman to ask Qin what he wants, subtly making him the center of the purchase while her powerful presence confuses the staff. The saleswoman initially assumes Sun Yating is the wealthy party and Qin is taking advantage of her, but her opinion changes when Qin personally pays for the Raptor. Their interaction ends with Qin unexpectedly overturning her assumptions and establishing himself as the actual buyer.

Chapter Summary: Myriad Immortals Matchmaking Conference, Spicy Hot Pot Strikes Back

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Heavenly Court hosts a lavish banquet and matchmaking conference, organized by the Jade Emperor and Matchmaker Yue.
• The seating arrangement intentionally places older immortals together with peacemakers and pairs younger immortals in alternating male-female seats, hoping to encourage romantic connections.
• The immortals initially glare at one another, but their attention is completely diverted when the Food God presents an unusual divided hot pot.
• The hot pot contains a spicy red-oil broth and a clear broth, separated in a Taiji-like pattern. At first, the immortals are confused because no ingredients are visible.
• The tomatoes used in the broth are revealed to be a Heavenly Court variety cultivated by the Earth God from Qin Fen’s original tomatoes. Their improved quality impresses the Food God.
• The Food God eventually brings out racks of skewered meat and vegetables, explaining that diners should choose their own ingredients, blanch them in either broth, and prepare dipping sauces according to their tastes.
• The self-service meal immediately becomes popular. The immortals enthusiastically select ingredients and seasonings, abandoning the intended matchmaking tension.
• The Great Sage, Sun Wukong, arrives late after hearing about the event and eagerly joins the feast.
• The Kitchen God, repeatedly outshone by the Food God’s innovations, finally accepts defeat. The Food God begins imagining the commercial potential of Daoist Nature’s hot pot skewers.

Character Developments

• The Jade Emperor shows his willingness to support Matchmaker Yue’s matchmaking scheme, even though he privately finds the event tedious. He becomes genuinely impressed by the hot pot’s novelty and practicality.
• Matchmaker Yue remains focused on creating romantic pairings and is frustrated when the food distracts everyone from interacting romantically.
• The Food God gains confidence and pride in his ability to organize the banquet and promote hot pot. He views the event as proof of Daoist Nature’s culinary brilliance and begins dreaming of opening a restaurant.
• The Kitchen God grows increasingly discouraged as the Food God’s hot pot concept wins over the immortals. By the end, he admits defeat and gives up competing.
• The Gold-Bearded Daoist recognizes the careful matchmaking arrangement and becomes frustrated when the immortals ignore their assigned partners in favor of staring at the hot pot.
• The Jade Emperor, Barefoot Immortal, Lü Dongbin, and the Eight Immortals all display childlike curiosity and enthusiasm toward the unfamiliar cooking method.
• Sun Wukong is characterized as energetic, sociable, and eager not to miss an entertaining gathering.

Significant Themes

• Food as a social force: The hot pot succeeds where matchmaking fails, naturally encouraging conversation and cooperation around a shared meal.
• Innovation and adaptation: A mortal-world cooking method is transformed into an impressive celestial delicacy through immortal ingredients and techniques.
• Curiosity overcoming rivalry: The immortals arrive prepared to glare at or argue with one another, but their shared fascination with hot pot temporarily dissolves their hostility.
• Competition and professional pride: The Food God and Kitchen God represent rival culinary traditions, with the Food God gaining the upper hand through creativity.
• Cultural exchange between mortals and immortals: Qin Fen’s tomatoes and hot pot concept influence Heavenly Court cuisine, demonstrating how mortal inventions can reshape immortal life.
• The contrast between official intentions and actual outcomes: The event is designed for matchmaking, but the food becomes the true centerpiece and source of connection.

Character Interactions

• The Jade Emperor silently pressures Matchmaker Yue to make the conference successful, while Matchmaker Yue urges the Food God to improve the atmosphere.
• The Gold-Bearded Daoist observes and critiques the seating strategy, hoping the assigned pairings will spark conflict or romance.
• The Jade Emperor questions the Food God about how the seemingly empty pot is meant to be eaten, prompting the presentation of the ingredients.
• The Food God explains the hot pot’s preparation and dipping sauces, winning the immortals’ approval.
• The immortals, including rivals such as Li Jing and Wen Zhong, momentarily stop quarreling and focus on understanding the new dish.
• Han Xiangzi welcomes Sun Wukong to the Eight Immortals’ table, while the group enthusiastically prepares its own sauces.
• The Food God and Kitchen God exchange silent looks that reflect their ongoing rivalry, with the Kitchen God conceding that the Food God’s hot pot innovation is superior.

Chapter Summary: “Matchmaker Yue’s Escalating Offensive”

Key Plot Points and Events

• The immortals enjoy a communal spicy skewer hot pot, creating an unusually harmonious atmosphere despite Sun Wukong’s disruptive presence. His antics—stealing food, joking, and provoking others—actually help everyone relax by making him the group’s shared target.
• Even the younger generation, who recently fought one another, begin eating together, chatting, and offering food to former opponents. This completely undermines Gold-Bearded Daoist’s expectation of renewed conflict.
• Troubled by the excessive harmony, Gold-Bearded Daoist proposes inviting the younger immortals to join the gathering so they can “deepen their friendship” and reduce their fighting.
• His seemingly reasonable suggestion is actually an attempt to revive painful memories of the Investiture of the Gods and reignite tensions between the major factions.
• The Jade Emperor and Duty Star Official try to minimize the children’s conflicts, preserving the pleasant atmosphere.
• Matchmaker Yue intervenes before Gold-Bearded Daoist can continue. He reframes the problem as a simple lack of guidance among the immortal children rather than a deep ideological or familial feud.
• The Jade Emperor accepts Yue’s explanation, preventing the discussion from escalating—at least temporarily.
• Gold-Bearded Daoist quickly changes tactics. He blames the deeper problem on Matchmaker Yue’s matchmaking and the growth of the immortal population, arguing that Yue created the situation and must now solve it.
• The chapter ends with Matchmaker Yue enraged at being made responsible for the entire conflict and silently calling on Daoist Nature for help.

Character Developments

• Sun Wukong reinforces his role as a mischievous but socially useful troublemaker. His shameless behavior eases tension rather than causing genuine conflict.
• Gold-Bearded Daoist is shown as calculating, persistent, and politically dangerous. When one attempt to provoke discord fails, he immediately devises another.
• Matchmaker Yue demonstrates that he has learned Qin Fen’s strategy of controlling a conversation by redefining the issue. However, his success also makes him the target of Gold-Bearded Daoist’s counterattack.
• The Jade Emperor remains outwardly calm and good-humored, carefully supporting whichever explanation preserves harmony. His responses suggest considerable political intelligence.
• The younger immortals show signs of reconciliation, moving from open hostility toward casual interaction and mutual courtesy.
• The Duty Star Official acts defensively, attempting to downplay the children’s disputes and avoid becoming involved in a larger political confrontation.

Significant Themes

• Harmony versus manipulation: The hot-pot gathering creates genuine unity, while Gold-Bearded Daoist repeatedly tries to exploit old grievances.
• Political framing and control of narratives: The conflict depends on how the problem is defined. Gold-Bearded Daoist presents it as a factional feud, while Matchmaker Yue reframes it as a matter of child discipline.
• The persistence of old wounds: The Investiture of the Gods remains a deeply painful memory, capable of reigniting hostility even during a peaceful celebration.
• Responsibility and blame: Gold-Bearded Daoist shifts the consequences of the current situation onto Matchmaker Yue, arguing that the creator of the problem must resolve it.
• Food and social bonding: The shared meal functions as a tool for breaking down barriers, encouraging communication, and transforming former enemies into temporary companions.

Character Interactions

• Sun Wukong jokingly bickers with Taibai and Barefoot Immortal, steals food, and becomes the focus of friendly teasing.
• The Jade Emperor observes the gathering with amusement and works with the Duty Star Official to preserve its peaceful mood.
• Gold-Bearded Daoist challenges the harmonious atmosphere through carefully worded suggestions.
• Matchmaker Yue directly blocks Gold-Bearded Daoist and outmaneuvers him rhetorically, earning the Jade Emperor’s approval.
• Gold-Bearded Daoist retaliates by turning Yue’s own matchmaking role against him, leaving Yue furious and in need of assistance.

Chapter Summary: “Heavenly Court Elementary School: Compulsory Education”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Matchmaker Yue is placed under pressure during a Heavenly Court discussion about the unruly behavior and lack of discipline among immortal children.
• Gold-Bearded exploits the situation, arguing that because Matchmaker Yue oversees population matters, he should also solve the education and discipline problem. King Li and other officials support this demand.
• The Jade Emperor orders Matchmaker Yue to present an immediate and lasting solution, while Gold-Bearded pushes him to answer publicly and under pressure.
• Matchmaker Yue secretly seeks help from Qin Fen, also known as Daoist Nature, but Qin initially ignores the messages while test-driving a Ford Raptor with Sun Yating.
• After Qin finally notices the phone, he agrees to help—but only after ensuring that his contribution will earn him Merit. He sends Matchmaker Yue a detailed plan.
• While Gold-Bearded is preparing to attack Matchmaker Yue verbally, the Great Sage deliberately sprays hot soup from a beef ball onto Gold-Bearded’s face, distracting him and buying Matchmaker Yue time.
• Empowered by Qin’s advice, Matchmaker Yue confidently announces the solution: establish schools and implement compulsory education for immortal children.

Character Developments

• Matchmaker Yue shifts from nervous helplessness to confidence once Qin provides a workable plan. His dependence on Qin highlights both his resourcefulness in seeking help and his lack of confidence under political pressure.
• Qin Fen/Daoist Nature remains mischievous, opportunistic, and irreverent. He treats the Heavenly Court’s crisis as a chance to gain Merit, yet still provides the practical solution that saves Matchmaker Yue.
• Gold-Bearded is revealed as aggressive and politically calculating. He tries to force Matchmaker Yue into making a mistake, but his scheming is interrupted and humiliated.
• The Great Sage acts as a disruptive ally. His seemingly accidental soup attack is clearly deliberate, showing his impatience with Gold-Bearded and his willingness to defend Matchmaker Yue indirectly.
• The Jade Emperor maintains authority while giving Matchmaker Yue a chance to resolve the problem, though he also allows the political pressure to continue.

Significant Themes

• Education as social order: The chapter presents schools and compulsory education as a systematic solution to unruly children and the burden they place on adults.
• Political pressure and scapegoating: Officials attempt to shift responsibility onto Matchmaker Yue, showing how institutional problems can become personal blame.
• Merit and self-interest: Qin helps others, but only after negotiating compensation, blending genuine ability with shameless opportunism.
• Improvisation and indirect cooperation: The crisis is resolved through a combination of Qin’s modern idea, Matchmaker Yue’s presentation, and the Great Sage’s comic interference.
• Modern concepts entering the Heavenly Court: “Compulsory education” introduces a contemporary administrative solution into the immortal world, reflecting the chapter’s humorous fusion of modern society and mythology.

Important Character Interactions

• Gold-Bearded and Matchmaker Yue: Gold-Bearded repeatedly pressures and humiliates Matchmaker Yue, attempting to trap him publicly.
• Matchmaker Yue and Qin Fen: Their exchange drives the plot. Matchmaker Yue pleads for help, while Qin bargains for Merit before supplying the answer.
• Qin Fen and Sun Yating: Their car ride provides comic contrast to the Heavenly Court crisis, with Sun Yating misunderstanding Qin’s vibrating phone.
• The Great Sage and Gold-Bearded: The Great Sage’s soup-spraying incident acts as both comic retaliation and strategic distraction.
• Matchmaker Yue and the Jade Emperor: Matchmaker Yue ultimately presents the school system directly to the Jade Emperor, transforming the meeting from a possible condemnation into an opportunity to propose reform.

Chapter Summary: “Merit, Feature Upgrade”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Matchmaker Yue presents the Jade Emperor with Qin Fen’s proposal for establishing compulsory education in the Heavenly Court.
• The policy would require all immortal children of school age to attend publicly funded, universally available schools. Education would include basic spells, cultivation guidance, moral instruction, and character development.
• The proposal receives enthusiastic support from the immortals, especially those struggling with spoiled and unruly children. The Jade Emperor is also delighted, recognizing that mandatory attendance would make the plan far more effective than previous voluntary school initiatives.
• Gold-Bearded Daoist attempts to delay the policy by questioning who would teach the children. He argues that most immortals are occupied with official duties or lack the patience and suitability required for teaching.
• Matchmaker Yue solves the problem by proposing that young men and women from immortal households serve as elementary instructors, while more powerful immortals oversee intermediate education and school administration.
• The young immortals immediately agree to participate. The Jade Emperor approves the proposal before Gold-Bearded Daoist can raise further objections.
• The Jade Emperor rewards Matchmaker Yue with a section of Fusang Wood and 50,000 Merit for his contribution.
• Qin Fen receives a notification that Matchmaker Yue has recharged 50,000 Merit on his behalf. His phone credit is now sufficient to activate a new feature, suggesting that his carefully planned scheme has succeeded.

Character Developments

• Qin Fen: Though absent from the Heavenly Court, Qin Fen’s influence drives the entire policy. His strategy not only improves the Heavenly Court but also advances his own mysterious system and increases his Merit.
• Matchmaker Yue: He gains praise and official recognition for presenting Qin Fen’s plan. He appears proud and delighted, believing Daoist Nature’s ideas to be extraordinarily clever. His role as Qin Fen’s intermediary becomes even more important.
• Jade Emperor: He shifts quickly from confusion to strong enthusiasm. He recognizes compulsory education as a powerful way to strengthen the Heavenly Court’s future and confidently approves the plan.
• Gold-Bearded Daoist: He becomes increasingly alarmed because the schools will improve the Heavenly Court’s future military and political strength. His attempt to obstruct the plan fails, leaving him furious when he realizes the program also functions as a matchmaking arrangement.
• The young immortal men and women: They are recruited as teachers, giving them responsibilities and opportunities for interaction. Their participation also advances Qin Fen’s hidden matchmaking objective.

Significant Themes

• Education as long-term power: The schools will cultivate disciplined, capable reserve immortals and strengthen the Heavenly Court across generations.
• Public welfare and social organization: Compulsory education reduces the burden on parents, improves children’s behavior, and creates stronger communal bonds.
• Indirect influence and hidden schemes: Qin Fen achieves his goals without appearing directly, using Matchmaker Yue to disguise his plans as beneficial Heavenly Court policy.
• The clash between public benefit and political rivalry: While the policy benefits everyone in principle, Gold-Bearded Daoist opposes it because it may allow the Heavenly Court to outgrow rival powers.
• Matchmaking disguised as administration: The teaching arrangement places young men and women together, revealing that Qin Fen’s educational reform also serves his ongoing plan to create romantic pairings.

Character Interactions

• Matchmaker Yue explains the policy to the Jade Emperor, who praises him enthusiastically.
• The surrounding immortals collectively support the proposal, particularly because it will control their spoiled children.
• Gold-Bearded Daoist challenges Matchmaker Yue, but Matchmaker Yue calmly provides a practical solution and gains further approval.
• The young immortals respond in unison that they are willing to teach, reinforcing the policy’s immediate feasibility.
• Gold-Bearded Daoist realizes that the entire arrangement secretly promotes marriages and angrily recognizes Qin Fen’s manipulation.
• Qin Fen’s final notification confirms that his interaction with Matchmaker Yue has produced the desired reward and unlocked the possibility of a new system feature.

Chapter Summary: “Mysterious Light Technique, Offline Space Upgrade”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin Fen receives confirmation that his hard work and business planning are beginning to pay off. He intends to build a long-term profit stream through WeChat’s Heavenly Court-related services rather than rely on one-time deals.
• He spends 20,000 Merit to upgrade Offline Space, increasing its capacity from 100 MB to 500 MB. This allows him to store and potentially exchange more valuable items from the Heavenly Court.
• He activates two additional features:
  • Drifting Bottle, which appears to function similarly to the ordinary WeChat feature but is connected to the Heavenly Court.
  • Video Chat, which consumes phone credit.
• Qin Fen tests the video function and discovers that it activates the Mysterious Light Technique, allowing him to remotely view another person through a magical image rather than an ordinary phone camera.
• The person contacting him is Bai Xiaojie, a woman Qin Fen recognizes as the same person he previously knew through the flower shop owner Ming. She contacts him after finishing surgery at the hospital.
• When Qin Fen connects to her, the Mysterious Light Technique activates automatically and costs 100 phone-credit units. He realizes WeChat can effectively allow him to use magical techniques despite being an ordinary mortal without spiritual energy.
• Qin Fen watches Bai Xiaojie change clothes before hurriedly ending the call when Sun Yating notices his suspicious behavior.
• He disguises his contact with Bai Xiaojie by labeling her with the crude nickname “Bai Xiaojie” and tells Sun Yating that he was only chatting with a classmate.

Character Developments

• Qin Fen becomes increasingly entrepreneurial and calculating. He is focused on expanding WeChat’s functions and maximizing their profit potential.
• His confidence grows as he realizes the Heavenly Court’s technology can give him access to magical abilities normally impossible for a mortal.
• Qin Fen also shows his immature and somewhat lecherous side when he secretly observes Bai Xiaojie through the Mysterious Light Technique, while simultaneously trying to conceal his actions.
• Bai Xiaojie is introduced as a hardworking surgeon who has just completed an operation. She appears tired but curious enough to contact Qin Fen, suggesting an interest in reconnecting with him.
• Sun Yating becomes suspicious of Qin Fen’s secretive behavior and begins questioning who he is communicating with.

Significant Themes

• Technology merging with magic: The Heavenly Court’s version of WeChat transforms ordinary communication functions into supernatural tools, especially through the Mysterious Light Technique.
• Commerce and exploitation of opportunity: Qin Fen views every new function as a potential source of profit and plans to develop the system gradually for maximum financial gain.
• Curiosity and experimentation: Qin Fen believes practical testing is the best way to understand the new features, reflecting his willingness to explore unknown powers.
• Secrecy and temptation: The chapter contrasts Qin Fen’s business ambitions with his irresponsible use of the video function and his efforts to hide it from Sun Yating.
• The costs of power: Although the magical feature is extraordinarily useful, it consumes phone credit, emphasizing that even supernatural abilities come with a price.

Character Interactions

• Qin Fen interacts with the WeChat system, treating its notifications as both business opportunities and magical discoveries.
• He exchanges messages with Bai Xiaojie, who confirms his identity and asks what he is doing. Qin Fen gives the false excuse that he is driving.
• Sun Yating observes Qin Fen’s suspicious expression while driving and directly asks whether he is chatting with another woman.
• Qin Fen minimizes the situation by calling Bai Xiaojie a classmate, but Sun Yating remains doubtful, setting up possible future tension.

Chapter Summary: “Let the Renovation Fly for a While”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin Fen returns to the dealership with Sun Yating and pays for a Ford Raptor pickup truck in full. He chooses it because it is practical and relatively low-key compared with luxury sedans.
• The dealership agrees to handle the vehicle’s registration and insurance, allowing Qin Fen to save time.
• After asking Sun Yating for leave, Qin Fen heads to a building materials market to begin renovating the land around his villa.
• He plans to:
  • Pave the muddy open area with outdoor stone tiles.
  • Hire a renovation crew.
  • Build a glass room beside the courtyard.
• Qin Fen now has enough Merit to purchase useful items from Heavenly Court, but he deliberately avoids excessively powerful or dangerous treasures. He worries about wasting resources—or harming himself—by using something beyond his current capacity.
• At a stone and tile shop, Qin Fen consults a saleswoman about suitable outdoor materials. She recommends granite over marble and terrazzo because of its greater durability and resistance to corrosion.
• He selects imported American White Sesame Granite. Although the saleswoman uses a subtle sales tactic by emphasizing the possible radiation risks of cheaper domestic granite, Qin Fen recognizes the manipulation but still chooses the imported material for safety and quality.
• He leaves his contact information so the store can measure the property and arrange the order.

Character Developments

• Qin Fen is becoming financially independent and increasingly focused on building a stable foundation for his future business. He is practical, cautious, and unwilling to rush into using powerful Heavenly Court items.
• His earlier frugality remains visible, as he questions the tile prices and worries about renovation kickbacks. However, his improved finances allow him to prioritize quality over saving every bit of money.
• Qin Fen also demonstrates good judgment: he recognizes the saleswoman’s psychological tactics but chooses not to argue because the more expensive product better suits his goals.
• Sun Yating shows maturity and understanding. Rather than resenting Qin Fen’s departure from the dealership, she accepts that he is destined for greater things and treats him as a friend.

Significant Themes

• Ambition and destiny: Sun Yating views Qin Fen as someone destined to leave his current circumstances behind, using the image of a dragon escaping a small pond.
• Prudence over reckless power: Qin Fen understands that possessing access to extraordinary treasures does not mean he should use them carelessly. He believes progress should happen gradually.
• Building a foundation: The physical renovation of the villa reflects Qin Fen’s broader effort to establish a base for his plans and future business.
• Consumer psychology and human nature: The saleswoman’s discussion of radiation demonstrates how sellers influence buyers by creating fear and contrasting products. Qin Fen sees through the tactic but acknowledges its effectiveness.
• Practical independence: Qin Fen focuses on managing his own affairs rather than being impressed by the mysterious and powerful owner of the surrounding land.

Character Interactions

• Qin Fen and Sun Yating: Their interaction is friendly and respectful. Sun Yating grants him leave without complaint and accepts his ambitions, reinforcing their relationship as genuine friends.
• Qin Fen and the tile saleswoman: The saleswoman guides him through unfamiliar materials and uses persuasive marketing to encourage him toward a premium product. Qin Fen listens carefully, verifies her claims online, and ultimately makes his own decision.
• Qin Fen and property management: Though he learns that the surrounding land belongs to the influential Mr. Song, Qin Fen remains focused on his own plans and does not allow the man’s status to distract him.

Chapter Summary: “Heavenly Court Supply Shopping Spree”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin Fen returns home after purchasing a Raptor and parks it in his newly developing courtyard. He admires the progress of the property while enduring the intense heat.
• After opening his phone’s Moments and message-bottle feature, Qin Fen discovers that both the mortal world and Heavenly Court are peaceful.
• The first two message bottles are mundane mortal-world messages: one is a crude request for a romantic hookup, while the other seeks help in an online argument.
• The third bottle is from the Heavenly Court. It materializes as a glowing paper crane accompanied by flute music and a lovesick poem. Qin Fen assumes the sender is likely Han Xiangzi, one of the Eight Immortals, but finds the romantic display strange and ignores it.
• Little Bean eagerly explores the courtyard, marks its territory, and repeatedly reminds Qin Fen that dinner should be prepared.
• Qin Fen contacts Food God to request soil from the Heavenly Court. Food God eagerly agrees, thrilled that Qin Fen has sought his assistance and treating him with extraordinary reverence.
• Food God sends a photograph containing Heavenly Court soil. Qin Fen downloads it, receiving a huge quantity—roughly three basins’ worth—for a cost that leaves him with a balance of 7,479.
• Qin Fen also downloads another photograph from Flower-Fruit Mountain that contains baskets of celestial fruit, tea leaves, and gourds of Monkey Wine. The purchase costs another thousand, leaving him with 6,479.
• Excited by the abundance of Heavenly Court ingredients, Qin Fen prepares to organize everything and enjoy a meal with Little Bean.

Character Developments

• Qin Fen: Continues expanding his household and experimenting with resources from the Heavenly Court. He shows practical cunning by choosing Food God over the stingy land god, using his existing relationship and Food God’s eagerness to avoid paying a personal cost.
• Food God: His admiration for Qin Fen has intensified into near-religious devotion. He secretly worships Qin Fen as the “Natural Celestial Venerable,” makes daily offerings, and eagerly accepts even minor errands as great honors.
• Little Bean: Remains energetic, greedy, and comically territorial. It quickly claims part of the courtyard, then focuses on getting Qin Fen to provide food.
• Han Xiangzi: Although he never appears directly, his possible lovesickness is introduced through the poetic message bottle, suggesting a more emotional and romantic side to the usually legendary immortal.

Significant Themes

• Everyday life mixed with the supernatural: Qin Fen treats immortal treasures, celestial soil, and magical message bottles as conveniences within his ordinary domestic routine.
• Exploitation and unequal relationships: Qin Fen benefits from Food God’s devotion while deliberately avoiding responsibility for the costs or risks Food God may incur.
• Mystery and communication across realms: The message-bottle system connects Qin Fen to both mortals and immortals, exposing him to everything from trivial online disputes to celestial romance.
• Material prosperity and cultivation of home: Qin Fen is steadily transforming his courtyard and household using rare resources from the Heavenly Court, blending mortal comfort with divine luxury.
• Humor through contrast: The grandeur of immortals and celestial objects is undercut by mundane concerns such as internet flirting, territorial pets, dinner, and shopping costs.

Character Interactions

• Qin Fen and Little Bean interact in a playful, familiar manner: Little Bean demands food, while Qin Fen teases and lightly kicks it, though the dog easily dodges.
• Qin Fen and Food God communicate with a clear imbalance in status. Qin Fen speaks casually and gives a simple order, while Food God responds with extreme humility and enthusiasm.
• Qin Fen indirectly encounters Han Xiangzi through the enchanted bottle, but dismisses the immortal’s romantic lament rather than engaging with it.
• The chapter ends with Qin Fen and Little Bean united by their anticipation of the newly acquired celestial food and drink.

Chapter Summary: “Flower-Fruit Mountain Specialties Arrive”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin Fen starts the day early after organizing his supplies. Sun Yating has arranged for a familiar, trusted renovation crew to work on his property.
• He samples Flower-Fruit Mountain peaches and Monkey Wine, discovering that the peach is exceptionally fresh, sweet, and flavorful. He also drinks tea made from Flower-Fruit Mountain leaves.
• Little Bean eagerly begs for a peach instead of meat or dog food. Qin Fen gives it one, and the dog happily runs off to eat it by the swimming pool.
• Qin Fen begins mixing Heavenly Court Yellow Mud into the nursery beds throughout his courtyard. He plans to reserve part of the yard for medicinal herbs, hoping to use them in medicinal cuisine and discover whether they possess special strengthening effects.
• The physical labor leaves him sweaty but noticeably improves his stamina. He takes pride in gradually transforming the yard into a personal “kingdom.”
• The renovation team arrives after Sun Yating contacts Qin Fen, marking the beginning of the courtyard’s larger development.
• Three elderly men walking by the lake stop outside Qin Fen’s villa after smelling the unusual fragrance from his tea. They are highly experienced tea drinkers but cannot identify it, finding its color, aroma, freshness, and lingering sweetness extraordinary. Intrigued, they approach Qin Fen.

Character Developments

• Qin Fen is shown as industrious, practical, and increasingly ambitious. He is no longer merely maintaining his home; he is deliberately building a specialized space for cultivating rare plants, herbs, and ingredients.
• His confidence in Flower-Fruit Mountain’s products grows as he experiences their exceptional quality firsthand.
• His stamina begins improving through manual labor, suggesting that his connection with supernatural or spiritual resources may have physical benefits.
• Sun Yating is characterized as decisive, energetic, reliable, and capable of handling practical matters efficiently. Her connections help Qin Fen secure trustworthy renovation workers.
• Little Bean continues to display its unusual personality, preferring peaches to meat and temporarily abandoning its territorial duties for food.
• The three elderly men are established as knowledgeable tea enthusiasts whose curiosity is immediately aroused by Qin Fen’s extraordinary tea.

Significant Themes

• Transformation and creation: Qin Fen’s courtyard becomes a symbol of his desire to build something uniquely his own from the ground up.
• The extraordinary hidden within the ordinary: Common activities—eating fruit, drinking tea, gardening—become remarkable because the ingredients originate from Flower-Fruit Mountain and the Heavenly Court.
• Cultivation and self-improvement: Qin Fen’s gardening plans, physical labor, and interest in medicinal herbs reflect both material development and possible personal strengthening.
• Quality and authenticity: The chapter contrasts rare, naturally grown products with ordinary market goods, emphasizing purity, freshness, and superior spiritual value.
• Curiosity leading to new connections: The tea’s unusual qualities attract outsiders, setting up Qin Fen’s likely interaction with the elderly tea experts.

Character Interactions

• Qin Fen humorously questions Little Bean’s taste when the dog begs for peach, then indulges it by throwing one over.
• Sun Yating’s earlier conversation with Qin Fen directly results in the renovation crew’s arrival, showing her practical support and his trust in her.
• Qin Fen has a quiet, self-satisfied relationship with his developing courtyard, treating it almost like a personal project or kingdom.
• The three elderly men interact with one another as knowledgeable tea connoisseurs, comparing the tea’s qualities and admitting they have never encountered anything like it.
• Their shared fascination brings them toward Qin Fen, creating the chapter’s closing encounter.

Chapter Summary: “That Invisible Slap”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin Fen meets three elderly residents near the lakeside and introduces himself as a new neighbor.
• He explains his plan to build a lakeside leisure area where residents can sit, drink tea, chat, and play chess.
• The elderly men enthusiastically support the idea, seeing it as a welcome gathering place for lonely retirees.
• Qin Fen invites them to try his special tea. After drinking it, they are astonished by its quality and immediately express interest in returning, bringing friends, and even buying it.
• Qin Fen continues clearing the remaining Heavenly Court soil around his property.
• A construction team arrives to begin work on his planned glass room, which will include a bathroom, plants, flowers, and space for organic cultivation. The foreman begins organizing the groundwork and material deliveries.
• Meanwhile, Ye Xiang starts construction on his own leisure project, including an open area and a lakeside dock for water activities. He focuses on building publicity and leveraging his social connections.
• Ye Xiang notices Qin Fen’s construction work and becomes irritated, viewing Qin Fen’s project as competition.
• Ye Xiang sarcastically offers to teach Qin Fen about business and claims he can bring people to support Qin Fen’s eventual opening.
• The three elderly men return and publicly praise Qin Fen’s tea, promising to bring former classmates, colleagues, and subordinates to his establishment.
• Qin Fen reveals that the tea is sold by the liang because it is so valuable. One elderly man immediately asks to buy a jin, leaving Ye Xiang stunned and embarrassed.

Character Developments

• Qin Fen demonstrates practical business sense. He recognizes the elderly men as wealthy and influential potential customers and quickly builds goodwill by offering them tea.
• His calm, modest manner contrasts with his strategic thinking. He presents the leisure area as a community service while also laying the foundation for a profitable business.
• The three elderly men shift rapidly from curious neighbors to enthusiastic supporters and prospective customers. Their reaction shows the tea’s extraordinary quality and their strong social influence.
• Ye Xiang becomes increasingly jealous and competitive. He believes his experience and connections give him an advantage, but Qin Fen effortlessly gains valuable patrons before his own project is even complete.
• The foreman and construction workers establish that Qin Fen’s plans are moving from an idea into a real development.

Significant Themes

• Business and competition: Both Qin Fen and Ye Xiang are developing leisure businesses, creating rivalry between them.
• Networking and social connections: Qin Fen gains influential contacts through sincerity and hospitality, while Ye Xiang relies on established connections and promotional efforts.
• Humility versus arrogance: Qin Fen speaks modestly and lets his tea impress people, whereas Ye Xiang boasts about his experience and connections.
• Unexpected advantages: Qin Fen’s seemingly simple act of serving tea produces a much greater business impact than Ye Xiang anticipates.
• Community and companionship: The elderly residents’ desire for a place to gather reflects the importance of social interaction, especially among retirees and empty-nesters.

Character Interactions

• Qin Fen’s friendly conversation with the elderly men establishes mutual goodwill and turns them into potential loyal customers.
• The construction foreman works with Qin Fen to translate his general vision into practical plans.
• Ye Xiang confronts Qin Fen with sarcasm and veiled accusations of copying or competing with him.
• Qin Fen responds diplomatically, accepting Ye Xiang’s supposed advice rather than escalating the conflict.
• The elderly men’s enthusiastic praise of Qin Fen’s tea unintentionally humiliates Ye Xiang, creating the chapter’s “invisible slap”: Qin Fen defeats Ye Xiang socially and commercially without directly attacking him.

Chapter Summary: Flower-Fruit Mountain Is a Gold Mine

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin Fen offers the three elderly tea connoisseurs a rare green tea from Flower-Fruit Mountain for 1,500 per liang, equivalent to an extremely high price of 15,000 per jin.
• Ye Xiang is shocked and assumes Qin Fen is overcharging, comparing the tea’s ordinary appearance to its extravagant price. He tries to undermine Qin Fen by claiming that even excellent spring tea would not cost so much.
• Qin Fen calmly defends the price, arguing that the tea’s value comes from its rarity and that only the person drinking it can judge whether it is worth the cost.
• After tasting the tea, the three elders unanimously declare it worth the price. One after another, they each decide to purchase a jin.
• Qin Fen strengthens the sale by pretending he may have priced the tea too cheaply, while graciously honoring the original price and allowing the elders to pay later.
• He also promises to treat them to tea during future visits, securing their goodwill and encouraging repeat business.
• Ye Xiang is left humiliated and frustrated. Realizing that Qin Fen has both an exceptional product and strong business instincts, he decides to avoid Qin Fen entirely.
• Qin Fen returns upstairs to prepare the tea, pleased that Flower-Fruit Mountain’s products can become a major source of wealth.

Character Developments

• Qin Fen demonstrates confidence in his products, sharp pricing instincts, and impressive skill at negotiation. He refuses to lower the price and uses scarcity, hospitality, and personal trust to maximize both profit and customer loyalty.
• Ye Xiang shifts from skepticism and mockery to reluctant recognition of Qin Fen’s abilities. His repeated defeats leave him bitter, embarrassed, and convinced that Qin Fen is impossible to compete with.
• The three elders are established as wealthy, experienced tea drinkers with refined judgment. Their enthusiastic purchases confirm the tea’s exceptional quality and help validate Qin Fen’s claims.

Significant Themes

• Value and rarity: The chapter emphasizes that luxury goods derive their value not only from appearance but from scarcity, quality, and the preferences of knowledgeable consumers.
• Business strategy: Qin Fen uses premium pricing, controlled supply, perceived exclusivity, and relationship-building to create demand.
• Confidence versus skepticism: Ye Xiang judges the tea by its ordinary appearance, while the elders judge it through experience and taste.
• Humiliation and rivalry: Ye Xiang’s attempts to embarrass Qin Fen repeatedly backfire, reinforcing their antagonistic relationship.
• Hidden wealth and potential: Flower-Fruit Mountain is portrayed as an untapped “gold mine” whose products could generate enormous long-term profits.

Character Interactions

• Qin Fen and Ye Xiang exchange polite but pointed verbal attacks, with Qin Fen consistently maintaining the upper hand.
• The elders act as both customers and judges, openly supporting Qin Fen’s assessment of the tea.
• Their group decision to buy the tea transforms the negotiation and leaves Ye Xiang isolated in his disbelief.
• Qin Fen’s friendly promises to the elders turn a single sale into the foundation of an ongoing business relationship.

Chapter Summary: “Chatting with One’s Life”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin Fen stores the tea leaves in six large tins, then gives two tins each to three elderly acquaintances. They promise to pay later and are impressed by his reliability and generosity.
• He leaves the villa’s construction work to the professional foreman and finishes planting the remaining seedlings himself.
• Qin Fen earns 45,000 in cash from the tea, taking particular pride in the money because he earned it through his own labor.
• After a tiring day, he relaxes in the villa’s heated outdoor pool beneath the stars, drinking Monkey Wine and eating mulberries.
• He orders Little Bean to fetch the mulberries. The dog obeys immediately because Qin Fen has trained it through threats involving Merit and the Golden-armored Warrior, rewarding it with a berry afterward.
• While relaxing, Qin Fen begins messaging Sun Yating. At the same time, he also exchanges messages with Sun Yujie.
• Sun Yating teasingly questions whether Qin Fen has been meeting other women. Trying to prove that he is really bathing, Qin Fen takes and sends a shirtless photo.
• Qin Fen accidentally sends the photo to Sun Yujie instead of Sun Yating, creating an embarrassing and potentially dangerous situation.
• Sun Yujie responds shyly but positively, complimenting his physique and thanking him for their previous encounter. Meanwhile, Sun Yating continues waiting for the promised photo, unaware of the mistake.

Character Developments

• Qin Fen is shown as hardworking, practical, and increasingly comfortable with his prosperous lifestyle. He values money earned through effort and enjoys the peaceful life his villa provides.
• He remains playful and confident, especially in his banter with the two women, but his confidence turns into anxiety when he realizes he may have mixed up their conversations.
• Little Bean has become more obedient and cautious around Qin Fen. It recognizes his vindictive nature and submits rather than risk punishment, while still seeking praise and rewards.
• Sun Yating displays a teasing, suspicious, and flirtatious personality. She enjoys provoking Qin Fen and deliberately challenges him to send a photo.
• Sun Yujie appears more shy and emotionally affected by Qin Fen. She blushes at the photo, recalls their earlier scooter ride, and cautiously compliments him.

Significant Themes

• Enjoyment of ordinary life: Qin Fen finds happiness in honest work, financial independence, nature, good food, and quiet relaxation.
• The rewards of labor: The cash earned from selling tea feels especially meaningful because it represents Qin Fen’s own effort rather than luck or a complicated transaction.
• Power and obedience: Qin Fen’s control over Little Bean reflects both his supernatural abilities and his humorous, domineering relationship with the dog.
• Romantic ambiguity and misunderstanding: Qin Fen’s simultaneous conversations with Sun Yating and Sun Yujie create a comic love-triangle situation, with his careless photo sending threatening to expose his divided attention.
• Comfort versus danger: The peaceful atmosphere of the countryside contrasts with Qin Fen’s sudden panic over the messaging mistake.

Character Interactions

• Qin Fen deals respectfully with the three elderly tea buyers, who respond warmly to his generosity and maturity.
• His relationship with Little Bean is built on intimidation, obedience, and playful rewards.
• His conversation with Sun Yating is flirtatious and competitive, with both sides testing the other.
• His exchange with Sun Yujie is gentler and more bashful, though Qin Fen’s accidental photo creates immediate embarrassment.
• The chapter ends with Qin Fen caught between the two conversations, realizing that his careless attempt to satisfy Sun Yating may have placed him in serious romantic trouble.

Chapter Summary: “People on the Milky Way, the Approaching Qixi Festival”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin Fen continues chatting with the Sun sisters. His conversation with the quieter Sun Yujie becomes increasingly comfortable, while Sun Yating openly teases him and mocks his physique.
• Sun Yujie ends the conversation by telling Qin Fen to sleep, but Qin Fen notices an unusual Moments post from someone named “Cowherd.”
• The post reveals Cowherd’s sadness and anticipation as Qixi Festival approaches. Qin Fen immediately recognizes an opportunity to gain traffic and investigate a famous mythological figure.
• Qin Fen reflects on the tragedy of Cowherd and Weaver Girl, complaining about Qixi because it reminds him of his own single status. He also clarifies the distinction between Cowherd and Dong Yong, who belongs to a different legendary couple.
• Using the Mysterious Light Technique, Qin Fen spends one hundred traffic points to view Cowherd’s world.
• He sees a young-looking Cowherd playing a sorrowful flute beside the Celestial River, clearly longing for Weaver Girl. Qin Fen realizes that Cowherd was likely the sender of the mysterious flute melody from an earlier chapter.
• Qin Fen sends Cowherd poetic words of consolation, paraphrasing the idea that true love can endure without constant physical reunion.
• Cowherd is startled by the mysterious communication. Because Qin Fen bypasses the powerful restrictions around the Queen Mother’s territory, Cowherd assumes he is an extremely powerful immortal—possibly even a Grand Unity Immortal or higher.

Character Developments

• Qin Fen: He shows growing confidence in communicating with mythical figures and begins viewing their stories as opportunities to gain traffic. Despite flirting with the Sun sisters, he remains focused on his larger ambitions and quickly abandons the conversation when he sees a potentially valuable target. His casual, modern attitude contrasts humorously with his exaggerated self-importance and lack of romantic experience.
• Sun Yujie: She appears calm, reserved, and quietly interested in Qin Fen. Her comments about running may hint at a desire to spend time with him, though she quickly clarifies them to avoid seeming too forward.
• Sun Yating: She remains lively, mischievous, and direct. She enjoys teasing Qin Fen but becomes frustrated when he suddenly ends their conversation, since she expected him to respond like an ordinary man attracted to her.
• Cowherd: He is portrayed as a powerful immortal rather than the simple herdsman of legend. Despite his strength and longevity, he remains emotionally wounded by his separation from Weaver Girl. His sorrow and caution show that he is intelligent, experienced, and deeply attached to his wife.

Significant Themes

• Love and separation: Cowherd and Weaver Girl’s yearly reunion emphasizes enduring love under tragic circumstances. Qin Fen’s poetic message suggests that emotional devotion may matter more than constant companionship.
• Mythology versus reality: Qin Fen treats legendary figures as real people and investigates the inconsistencies among different versions of Chinese mythology, including the identities of the Heavenly Emperor, Jade Emperor, and the relationships among mythological couples.
• Modern humor applied to ancient tragedy: Qin Fen views Qixi through the lens of a single modern man, joking about the holiday and Cowherd’s “reunion syndrome” while still recognizing the emotional pain behind the myth.
• Power and misunderstanding: Qin Fen’s mysterious communication makes Cowherd vastly overestimate his strength. This creates comic irony, as Qin Fen is merely using a technique while Cowherd believes a supreme celestial being has appeared.
• Ambition and opportunism: Qin Fen sees Cowherd’s suffering not only as a personal crisis but also as a chance to earn traffic and expand his influence within the Heavenly Court.

Character Interactions

• Qin Fen and Sun Yujie share a gentle, tentative online exchange, with mutual hints of interest but no direct confession.
• Qin Fen and Sun Yating engage in playful banter, though their interaction is uneven because Qin Fen is distracted and does not respond as enthusiastically as she expects.
• Qin Fen initiates contact with Cowherd through poetic consolation. Cowherd interprets the unknown speaker as an immensely powerful senior immortal and reacts with awe and caution.
• The chapter ends with dramatic irony: Qin Fen casually offers emotional advice, while Cowherd believes he has encountered a being powerful enough to surpass even the Heavenly Court’s strongest immortals.

Chapter Summary: “Your Flute Is Quite Good, Immortal”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin Fen contacts Cowherd through a video call and decides to exploit the only useful skill Cowherd possesses: his musical knowledge and flute-playing ability.
• Cowherd, overwhelmed by his separation from Weaver Girl, begs Qin Fen for guidance. Qin Fen responds with poetic words about Heaven and human righteousness, unintentionally presenting himself as a profound, compassionate immortal.
• The Azure Lotus Treasure-Colored Banner suddenly activates and suppresses Cowherd, forcing him to kneel and repeatedly kowtow until he begins bleeding.
• Qin Fen calls upon the mysterious “Immortal Lord,” and his words trigger a supernatural reaction. A black-and-white Taiji symbol appears in the celestial river, purple light overwhelms the Azure Lotus Treasure-Colored Banner, and Cowherd is freed.
• The event alarms powerful figures throughout the heavens. Queen Mother senses something inexplicable, while Lord Lao calculates the disturbance and identifies it as the return or manifestation of the Heavenly Dao.
• Unable to understand what has happened, the heavenly powers discover that numerous matters have become impossible to calculate, leading them to suspect Qin Fen’s involvement and influence.
• Qin Fen tells Cowherd that he will guide him, but only in exchange for Cowherd’s knowledge of music theory. Cowherd eagerly agrees, believing Qin Fen’s modest request proves his immense compassion.
• Cowherd thanks Qin Fen repeatedly and asks what should be done about Queen Mother. Qin Fen confidently tells him to leave everything to him, while privately celebrating that he has obtained something valuable without leaving empty-handed.

Character Developments

• Qin Fen acts opportunistically but frames his actions as benevolence. He knows Cowherd has little wealth, merit, or useful cultivation techniques, so he targets his practical musical expertise instead.
• Qin Fen’s poetic statement is interpreted far more seriously than he intends. Others mistake him for a supreme, compassionate immortal capable of influencing the Heavenly Dao.
• Cowherd shifts from despairing victim to hopeful believer. Qin Fen’s intervention convinces him that salvation from Queen Mother and reunion with Weaver Girl may be possible.
• Cowherd becomes completely devoted to Qin Fen, regarding him as a venerable master whose compassion has moved Heaven.
• Queen Mother is shown to be powerful yet unsettled and vulnerable to forces she cannot calculate or control.
• Lord Lao recognizes the disturbance as connected to the Heavenly Dao but is equally shocked and unable to determine its cause.

Significant Themes

• Misunderstood power and accidental authority: Qin Fen’s ordinary words produce extraordinary results, causing everyone to overestimate his cultivation and status.
• Hope amid oppression: Cowherd’s suffering and longing for Weaver Girl drive him to seek any possible form of salvation.
• The Heavenly Dao and cosmic disruption: The appearance of the Taiji symbol and the suppression of the innate magical treasure suggest that the natural order has reemerged or been disturbed.
• Charity mixed with self-interest: Qin Fen appears compassionate, but his assistance is also a calculated exchange for useful knowledge.
• Irony and mistaken identity: Qin Fen sees himself as a clever mortal acquiring a skill, while Cowherd and the heavenly powers view him as an unfathomably powerful immortal.

Character Interactions

• Qin Fen and Cowherd interact through a video call, with Cowherd treating Qin Fen’s poetic remarks as profound spiritual instruction.
• Cowherd begs Qin Fen for help, bows repeatedly, and offers lifelong worship in exchange for assistance with Weaver Girl.
• Qin Fen’s words indirectly confront Queen Mother’s authority by invoking Heaven’s compassion and righteousness.
• The Azure Lotus Treasure-Colored Banner acts as an oppressive force against Cowherd, while the mysterious Heavenly Dao-like power intervenes on his behalf.
• Qin Fen and Cowherd conclude their exchange with an agreement: Qin Fen will guide him, and Cowherd will provide his music theory knowledge.

Chapter Summary: “A Gift for the Queen Mother”

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin Fen studies the Queen Mother’s image and worries about confronting such a powerful figure directly. He realizes that force would be useless and decides he must exploit emotion instead.
• He uses the phone’s mysterious system to download part of Cowherd’s musical skill, gaining insight into how Cowherd transformed his longing for Weaver Girl into profound artistic expression.
• Rather than spending more money to spy on Weaver Girl, Qin Fen contacts her directly through the phone system while she is mourning Cowherd and gazing across the Milky Way.
• Qin Fen disguises himself as the mysterious expert “Naturally,” claiming that he has met Cowherd and promising Weaver Girl that the two lovers will reunite and remain together.
• Weaver Girl is initially frightened because Qin Fen’s spiritual presence bypasses the Queen Mother’s powerful Plain-Colored Cloud Realm Banner. Believing him to be an ancient and immensely powerful immortal, she quickly accepts his authority.
• Qin Fen encourages Weaver Girl to remain steadfast in her love and tells her to leave the matter to him.
• He asks Weaver Girl to weave a pair of black, transparent, thigh-high stockings from ice silkworm silk, declaring that they are intended as a gift for the Queen Mother.

2. Character Developments

• Qin Fen becomes more confident and cunning. He recognizes that emotional influence, rather than physical strength, may be the only way to affect the Queen Mother. His access to Cowherd’s artistic understanding also makes him more perceptive and rhetorically sophisticated.
• Weaver Girl shifts from loneliness and despair to cautious hope. Although she knows the Queen Mother’s decree is difficult to oppose, she reaffirms her unwavering love for Cowherd and agrees to follow Qin Fen’s instructions.
• Cowherd is not present directly, but his deep longing and mastery of music influence Qin Fen’s strategy. His love becomes the emotional foundation of Qin Fen’s plan.
• The Queen Mother remains offstage but is established as exceptionally powerful, authoritative, stubborn, and feared throughout the Immortal Realm.

3. Significant Themes

• Love as a source of strength: Cowherd and Weaver Girl’s enduring devotion is presented as powerful enough to inspire extraordinary action and potentially overcome heavenly authority.
• Cunning versus brute force: Qin Fen understands that he cannot defeat the Queen Mother physically, so he plans to use emotion, symbolism, and persuasion.
• Art and emotional transcendence: Cowherd’s music demonstrates the idea that complete emotional sincerity can lead to mastery and even spiritual enlightenment.
• Appearance and deception: Qin Fen’s false identity as “Naturally” allows him to appear as an intimidating immortal expert, showing how perception can create power.
• Humor through cultural misunderstanding: The modern concept of stockings is unfamiliar to Weaver Girl, and Qin Fen’s bizarre plan contrasts ordinary mortal fashion with the grandeur of the Immortal Realm.

4. Character Interactions

• Qin Fen internally evaluates the Queen Mother while developing a strategy based on her emotional vulnerabilities.
• He communicates with Weaver Girl through the phone system, presenting himself as a powerful senior and speaking in poetic language to gain her trust.
• Weaver Girl questions Qin Fen about Cowherd and the purpose of his visit, revealing both her anxiety and her enduring affection.
• Qin Fen tests Weaver Girl’s devotion, and she vows that her love will last until heaven and earth perish.
• Their conversation ends with Weaver Girl agreeing to create the unusual stockings, unaware of Qin Fen’s real identity or how he plans to use the gift to approach the Queen Mother.

Chapter Summary: “Opening in Progress”

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin Fen proposes using specially made socks as a gift for the Queen Mother, hoping to appeal to her love of beauty and persuade her to resolve the Cowherd and Weaver Girl’s predicament.
• He believes ordinary mortal gifts such as jewelry or cosmetics would be unsuitable for an immortal, while the socks—made according to his idea by the Weaver Girl—might impress her.
• Qin Fen, the Weaver Girl, the Cowherd, and even the Queen Mother become preoccupied with the plan. Qin Fen and the Cowherd are hopeful, the Weaver Girl is excited, and the Queen Mother remains troubled by the Heavenly Dao’s suppression of the Azure Lotus Treasure-Colored Banner.
• Other powerful immortals and demon kings—including Lord Lao, Tathagata, Guanyin, and various demon leaders—are confused and alarmed by the Heavenly Dao’s reappearance, fearing the return of the Purple Firmament Divine Thunder.
• Meanwhile, Qin Fen continues working at Lotus Pavilion while his home and private-cuisine tea house are being renovated by Sun Yating’s acquaintance.
• Qin Fen’s cooking reputation grows. The new chef regards him as a master, and the restaurant staff benefit from his guidance.
• Sun Yating shows Qin Fen an online video of his extraordinary knife skills, which has gained more than 300,000 views. Qin Fen dislikes the unwanted attention and would prefer to remain low-profile.
• Qin Fen’s private-cuisine tea house is nearly complete. Sun Yating’s father has already reserved the first meal, and Qin Fen announces that he may work at Lotus Pavilion less frequently after opening his own establishment.

2. Character Developments

• Qin Fen: Demonstrates cleverness and strategic thinking by designing a beauty-related gift for the Queen Mother. He remains practical, self-deprecating, and determined to avoid fame despite becoming popular. His skill and confidence as a chef continue to grow, and he is moving toward independence with his own tea house.
• Weaver Girl: Becomes intrigued and excited by the idea of making the unusual socks, imagining the Queen Mother wearing them. Her hopes for resolving her separation from the Cowherd are renewed.
• Cowherd: Gains hope from Qin Fen’s plan and waits anxiously for the Queen Mother’s possible intervention.
• Queen Mother: Is emotionally unsettled by the strange Heavenly Dao phenomenon and remains unaware of Qin Fen’s intended gift, though her presumed appreciation for beauty is central to his strategy.
• Sun Yating: Continues to act as both a practical business partner and supportive friend. She handles the renovation methodically, promotes Qin Fen’s work, and is happy about his growing success rather than jealous of his departure from Lotus Pavilion.
• New chef and Lotus Pavilion staff: Regard Qin Fen with increasing admiration, treating him as an expert whose guidance improves their cooking.

3. Significant Themes

• Cleverness over conventional methods: Qin Fen rejects ordinary gifts and relies on an unconventional but psychologically targeted idea to influence the Queen Mother.
• The contrast between the supernatural and the mundane: Immortals and cosmic powers are worried about the Heavenly Dao, while Qin Fen is primarily concerned with socks, cooking, renovations, and business.
• Growing fame versus personal preference: Qin Fen’s exceptional skills attract public attention, but he values privacy and a quiet life more than popularity.
• Friendship and mutual support: Sun Yating supports Qin Fen’s ambitions, while Qin Fen contributes his expertise to the restaurant staff.
• Change and independence: The nearly completed tea house marks Qin Fen’s transition from employee and honorary chef to an entrepreneur with his own path.

4. Character Interactions

• Qin Fen and the Weaver Girl discuss the possibility of giving the socks to the Queen Mother, with both becoming fascinated by the potential result.
• Qin Fen’s imagined strategy centers on exploiting the Queen Mother’s presumed love of beauty to give her a reason to help the Cowherd and Weaver Girl without losing face.
• At Lotus Pavilion, the new chef watches Qin Fen expectantly and treats him like a revered master, while Qin Fen feels the pressure of everyone’s admiration.
• Sun Yating teases Qin Fen about resting and private-room services, then shows him the viral knife-skills video.
• Sun Yating and Qin Fen discuss his upcoming tea house, her father’s planned first meal, and Qin Fen’s future reduced involvement at Lotus Pavilion. Their exchange shows their comfortable friendship and mutual goodwill.