Chapter Summaries

Chapter Summary: “The Invisible Dominance and Power!”

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• A tense silence fills the Heavenly Court as Qin Fen confronts the three Imperial Lords—the Jade Emperor, Ziwei, and Gouchen—over the seating arrangement at the New Year banquet.
• Qin Fen casually remarks that there seem to be no seats left, intending it as a joke. However, everyone interprets the comment as a challenge because the only remaining seats are beside the Imperial Lords rather than in the place of honor.
• The immortals assume Qin Fen is demanding a central position and expect a confrontation over who will control the banquet and, by extension, the New Year activities.
• When Qin Fen suggests sitting beside Lü Dongbin, the surrounding Star Lords and officials immediately stand and retreat, terrified of being associated with him. Their fear stems from Qin Fen’s previous victories and the injuries he inflicted on the Three Pure Ones.
• The banquet descends into confusion until Ziwei offers Qin Fen his own seat. Qin Fen initially refuses, pointing out that Ziwei is the host.
• To avoid disrupting the gathering, Qin Fen agrees to sit beside the Imperial Lords. He settles next to Gouchen and asks whether anyone objects.
• Gouchen, intimidated, says he has no objections and moves far away from Qin Fen. The officials interpret his retreat as proof that even an Imperial Lord fears Qin Fen.
• Ziwei successfully retains his position as host, largely because Qin Fen’s presence prevents anyone from challenging him.

2. Character Developments

• Qin Fen: Demonstrates overwhelming influence without intending to threaten anyone. His casual words and actions control the atmosphere of the entire court. Although he initially appears interested only in joking and attending the banquet, his presence gives him authority equal or superior to the Imperial Lords.
• Ziwei: Becomes increasingly anxious as the seating issue threatens to ruin his banquet, but ultimately benefits from Qin Fen’s intimidating reputation. He is relieved that Qin Fen honors his promise to let him preside, while also feeling envious of Qin Fen’s immense power.
• Gouchen: Reveals deep fear and insecurity around Qin Fen. He cannot bring himself to oppose Qin Fen and physically retreats after Qin Fen sits beside him, unconsciously lowering his own status.
• The Jade Emperor: Remains silent and visibly uncomfortable. His concern for dignity and reputation prevents him from yielding openly, but he also does not challenge Qin Fen.
• The Star Lords and Officials: Their terror of Qin Fen is shown through their immediate flight from their seats and refusal to sit near him. They prioritize self-preservation over etiquette.
• Northern Dipper Star Lord: Understands the political danger of the exchange and realizes that Qin Fen’s seemingly harmless words have created a crisis.

3. Significant Themes

• Invisible power and authority: Qin Fen does not need to issue commands or make threats; his reputation alone controls the behavior of the entire Heavenly Court.
• Fear as political influence: The immortals’ fear turns Qin Fen into a dominant force, allowing him to shape decisions without openly seeking power.
• Status and hierarchy: The seating arrangement symbolizes rank, authority, and control over the banquet. Qin Fen’s position becomes more important than formal titles.
• Appearance versus intention: Qin Fen means his remarks innocently, but others interpret them as calculated political moves. This gap between intention and perception drives the chapter’s tension and humor.
• Humor through intimidation: The scene turns a formal banquet into a farcical display of panic, with powerful figures desperately avoiding Qin Fen.
• Power disparity among equals: Although Qin Fen and the Imperial Lords occupy comparable positions, their actual influence is shown to be dramatically unequal.

4. Character Interactions

• Qin Fen’s casual comment unsettles the Jade Emperor, Ziwei, Gouchen, and the officials, who treat it as a challenge.
• Ziwei struggles to preserve his role as host while avoiding offending Qin Fen or the other Imperial Lords.
• Qin Fen tries to sit with Lü Dongbin, prompting Lü Dongbin and many others to flee.
• Ziwei offers Qin Fen his seat, and Qin Fen refuses to displace him, indirectly confirming that Ziwei will remain in charge.
• Qin Fen sits beside Gouchen and asks if he objects. Gouchen immediately submits and moves away.
• The Jade Emperor says nothing, but his silence and discomfort demonstrate that he, too, is unwilling to confront Qin Fen.
• By the end of the scene, Qin Fen has not openly claimed authority, yet his presence ensures that Ziwei controls the banquet and that no one dares oppose them.

Chapter Summary

• Qin Fen’s terrifying reputation: Ziwei reflects on Qin Fen’s legendary ability to set traps for gods, immortals, demons, Buddhists, and even the Heavenly Dao. Because Qin Fen is so unpredictable and dangerous, Ziwei believes it is safest to avoid opposing him directly. Gouchen reaches the same conclusion, abandoning a sarcastic remark rather than risk speaking near Qin Fen.
• Ziwei takes control of the banquet: Since Dongwang Gong has withdrawn and neither the Jade Emperor nor Gouchen objects, Ziwei assumes the role of host. He is pleased because this gives him greater influence and potential benefits. The Jade Emperor remains unconcerned due to his connection with the Dao Ancestor, while Gouchen silently tolerates the situation.
• The food banquet begins: Ziwei delivers an opening speech announcing that the Food God will prepare unusual dishes, including flying pancakes, pot stickers, and jianbing guozi. The immortals eagerly welcome the entertainment and food, treating the banquet as a pleasant break even though they understand that more important political matters are involved.
• Ziwei proposes a Heavenly Court New Year celebration: Ziwei announces plans for a grand festival bringing together the Heavenly Court, Buddhist School, Demon Tribe, Loose Immortals, and mortals. Several officials support the proposal, and Ziwei is satisfied that his plan is being accepted. However, the Food God’s cooking demonstration interrupts the discussion, so Ziwei postpones the details and encourages everyone to eat and talk.
• Ziwei and Big Dipper discuss the seating arrangement: In private, Ziwei reprimands Big Dipper for arranging the seats poorly, especially for placing him too close to Qin Fen. However, he quickly reframes the mistake as a blessing because Qin Fen’s intimidating presence prevented the Jade Emperor and Gouchen from interfering with Ziwei’s takeover of the banquet. Ziwei demonstrates his political skill by first warning Big Dipper and then reassuring him.
• Warnings about Qin Fen: Big Dipper cautions Ziwei that Qin Fen may appear cooperative while secretly preparing another trap. Ziwei acknowledges Qin Fen’s unpredictability but insists that the man keeps his promises and is therefore trustworthy. Despite Big Dipper’s concern, Ziwei refuses to add another seat or distance himself from Qin Fen, believing that doing so would make him look fearful and politically weak.
• Ending tension: Ziwei returns confidently to his seat beside Qin Fen, convinced that his status and fortune will protect him. Big Dipper remains uneasy, suspecting that sitting so close to Qin Fen may lead to trouble.

Character Developments and Interactions

• Ziwei grows more confident and politically ambitious as he successfully assumes control of the event. His pride and eagerness for advantage make him underestimate the risks of dealing with Qin Fen.
• Qin Fen remains mostly silent but dominates the atmosphere through his reputation alone. His mere presence intimidates Gouchen and influences the political balance.
• Big Dipper acts as Ziwei’s loyal but cautious adviser. He recognizes Qin Fen’s danger more clearly than Ziwei does and tries unsuccessfully to protect his master.
• Gouchen suppresses his resentment because he does not want to approach Qin Fen.
• The Jade Emperor remains confident because of his superior backing from the Dao Ancestor and does not immediately challenge Ziwei.
• The central interaction is between Ziwei’s political confidence and Big Dipper’s fear that Qin Fen’s apparent cooperation conceals another scheme.

Significant Themes

• Political maneuvering and the struggle for influence
• The danger of underestimating an unpredictable ally
• Appearance versus hidden intentions
• Authority, pride, and the desire to seize opportunities
• Qin Fen’s reputation as a source of power even when he takes no direct action

Chapter Summary: “Forced to Believe in the Supernatural”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ziwei attends the Heavenly Court banquet, initially believing everything is proceeding normally. He remains suspicious that someone may disrupt his plan to organize the Spring Festival Gala, but he cannot identify any likely culprit.
• The feast begins enthusiastically. Qin Fen, also known as Dongwang Gong, focuses almost entirely on eating, while the Food God impresses everyone by preparing modern-style foods such as flying pancakes and jianbing guozi.
• At Ziwei’s signal, the Northern Dipper Star Lord encourages him to explain the purpose and organization of the Spring Festival Gala. The gathered immortals become attentive, expecting an important speech.
• Ziwei explains that the gala should do more than display the Daoist School’s strength. It should celebrate with ordinary people, reduce tensions between different races, and show that immortals are not distant, superior beings but share ordinary emotions and experiences.
• Whenever Ziwei tries to explain the gala further, Qin Fen enthusiastically interrupts him to recommend another dish. Ziwei repeatedly abandons his prepared speech to taste and describe the food.
• When asked how the gala should actually be organized, Ziwei is interrupted again—this time by Big Chef’s chicken stewed with mushrooms. Instead of discussing the gala, he launches into a detailed explanation of how to select the best chicken and mushrooms and how the dish should be prepared.
• The officials and immortals realize that the meeting has completely derailed. They silently blame Qin Fen’s influence, even though his interruptions appear innocent and unintentional.

Character Developments

• Ziwei begins confident and self-satisfied, believing his plan is unfolding smoothly and that the Northern Dipper Star Lord’s concerns were exaggerated. However, his confidence collapses as he repeatedly loses control of the discussion. His desire to share credit for Qin Fen’s ideas remains clear, but his authority is undermined by his inability to stay focused.
• Qin Fen remains cheerfully oblivious to the political importance of the meeting. His only concern is sampling and recommending the food, yet his enthusiastic interruptions unintentionally sabotage Ziwei’s speech.
• The Northern Dipper Star Lord understands the danger of Qin Fen’s presence and becomes increasingly alarmed as Ziwei is distracted. He recognizes that the event is going wrong but cannot openly intervene.
• The Food God gains admiration for adapting mortal cooking methods into Heavenly Court cuisine. His creative dishes help transform the formal gathering into a lively, food-centered occasion.
• Gouchen, Lü Dongbin, Matchmaker Yue, and the other immortals grow increasingly anxious and bewildered. They all recognize Qin Fen as a disruptive force and are relieved not to be sitting too close to him.
• Li Jing and Matchmaker Yue show practical interest in understanding how the gala can be organized, but their questions are repeatedly swallowed by the banquet’s distractions.

Significant Themes

• The clash between grand ideals and ordinary pleasures: Ziwei attempts to discuss unity, social harmony, and political symbolism, but the meeting keeps returning to food and enjoyment.
• The power of unintended disruption: Qin Fen does not deliberately oppose Ziwei, yet his enthusiasm completely changes the course of the gathering.
• Immortals becoming relatable: Ziwei’s speech emphasizes that immortals should appear emotionally human and connected to ordinary people, a goal ironically embodied by the informal, food-filled banquet.
• Loss of authority and control: Ziwei wants to appear as the mastermind behind the gala, but his plan is repeatedly derailed, exposing how little control he actually has over Qin Fen or the meeting.
• Social and racial reconciliation: The proposed gala is intended to bridge the divide between immortals, mortals, and the Demon Tribe by presenting immortals as approachable rather than elevated above everyone else.

Character Interactions

• Ziwei works with the Northern Dipper Star Lord to guide the banquet toward a formal discussion, but Qin Fen’s constant food recommendations interrupt their efforts.
• Qin Fen enthusiastically shares dishes with Ziwei, forcing the emperor to respond politely and sample them instead of continuing his speech.
• Ziwei praises both the Food God and Big Chef, using detailed culinary commentary that unintentionally replaces his political explanation.
• The other immortals initially listen to Ziwei’s ideas, but their attention shifts to the food whenever Qin Fen and Ziwei begin eating.
• Gouchen, Lü Dongbin, Matchmaker Yue, and the Northern Dipper Star Lord privately recognize that Qin Fen’s presence is disastrous for anyone trying to maintain a serious discussion, reinforcing the chapter’s comedic conclusion.

Chapter Summary: “Ziwei’s Awkward Moment”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ziwei is asked how to stew chicken with mushrooms, but although he considers himself a knowledgeable gourmet, he realizes he does not actually know how to cook the dish.
• Instead of admitting ignorance, he improvises. His answer becomes increasingly confused as he mixes the cooking question with his earlier discussion of the Spring Festival Gala.
• Qin Fen unintentionally leads Ziwei into this embarrassing situation, while the immortals remain silent out of respect and confusion.
• Ziwei mistakes everyone’s stunned expressions for admiration and assumes he is successfully showing off his wisdom.
• When he reaches the point where he must explain the cooking process, Ziwei secretly asks Northern Dipper Star Lord for help.
• Northern Dipper signals him to stop and change the subject, but Ziwei misinterprets the advice and gives a vague, fabricated explanation about using low and high heat.
• Rather than exposing him, Li Jing, Matchmaker Yue, the Food God, and the other immortals flatter Ziwei. Their praise convinces him that his performance has succeeded.
• Ziwei ends with a falsely modest statement that he has only “done a little research,” completing what he believes is an impressive display of expertise.
• Northern Dipper is left exasperated and determined not to be blamed for Ziwei’s failure.

Character Developments

• Ziwei: Revealed as proud, competitive, and highly susceptible to showing off. He is not genuinely foolish, but his desire to preserve his dignity causes him to continue digging himself deeper into embarrassment.
• Northern Dipper: Acts as Ziwei’s loyal aide but becomes increasingly frustrated when Ziwei misunderstands his attempts to rescue the situation. He recognizes the disaster clearly but cannot control it.
• Qin Fen: Remains largely unaware of the chaos he has caused. His casual conversation indirectly traps Ziwei in the awkward exchange.
• The Jade Emperor: Notices that something is wrong and privately judges Ziwei, contrasting with Ziwei’s mistaken belief that the situation is going well.
• The Food God and other immortals: Prioritize flattery and political courtesy over honesty, reinforcing Ziwei’s misunderstanding.

Significant Themes

• Pride and loss of face: Ziwei refuses to admit that he does not know the answer, choosing humiliation over honesty.
• Miscommunication: Northern Dipper’s gestures are misunderstood, causing Ziwei to make the situation worse.
• Social hierarchy and flattery: The immortals cannot openly criticize an Imperial Lord, so they praise even his nonsensical answer.
• Self-deception: Ziwei interprets shock, silence, and pity as admiration, showing how vanity can distort perception.
• Comedic escalation: A simple question develops into an elaborate performance because Ziwei cannot stop once he has begun showing off.

Character Interactions

• Ziwei and Qin Fen: Qin Fen unintentionally creates the trap, while Ziwei follows the conversation into increasingly unrelated territory.
• Ziwei and Northern Dipper: Ziwei relies on his confidant for help, but Northern Dipper’s attempt to advise him is misunderstood, leaving him horrified and helpless.
• Ziwei and the immortals: Ziwei performs for them, believing their silence means respect and their praise means genuine admiration.
• Ziwei and the Food God: The Food God’s polite compliment gives Ziwei the final confirmation he needs to believe his invented cooking advice was authoritative.
• Northern Dipper and the others: Unlike the flatterers, Northern Dipper understands how badly Ziwei has embarrassed himself and silently suffers through the scene.

Chapter Summary: “Ran Straight into the Shit Pit’s Line of Fire”

Key Plot Points and Events

• The banquet becomes painfully awkward after Ziwei proudly discusses the wrong topic, talking about “chicken stew with mushrooms” instead of the Spring Festival Gala.
• Qin Fen remains focused on eating, unintentionally—or possibly deliberately—causing Ziwei to lose track of the conversation.
• Gouchen exposes Ziwei’s mistake by bluntly asking why he is discussing food when everyone is waiting for news about the gala.
• Ziwei realizes he has embarrassed himself and internally blames Qin Fen for distracting him, though Qin Fen technically did nothing wrong.
• Before Ziwei can retaliate, Qin Fen defends him, arguing that the gathering is officially a food banquet, so discussing food is perfectly appropriate.
• Qin Fen’s shamelessly logical defense turns Gouchen into the apparent villain and allows Ziwei to save face.
• Gouchen, frustrated at being made the scapegoat, apologizes and decides to stop speaking for the rest of the banquet.

Character Developments

• Ziwei: Begins the chapter confident and pleased to be the center of attention, but his confidence collapses when he realizes he has been speaking about the wrong subject. He is embarrassed, resentful toward Qin Fen and Gouchen, and grateful when Qin Fen unexpectedly rescues him.
• Qin Fen: Remains obliviously—or deceptively—focused on eating. His interruptions derail Ziwei’s speech, but he later uses technically valid reasoning to defend Ziwei and redirect blame onto Gouchen.
• Gouchen: Enjoys Ziwei’s embarrassment and intentionally exposes him, expecting to watch him suffer. However, Qin Fen’s defense reverses the situation, leaving Gouchen confused, humiliated, and resentful.
• Northern Dipper Star Lord: Suffers from secondhand embarrassment and realizes that trying to warn Ziwei is futile. He becomes even more confused by Qin Fen’s apparent shift from troublemaker to ally.
• The Jade Emperor and the other immortals: Mostly remain silent or conceal their amusement, watching the social disaster unfold. They increasingly view Qin Fen as dangerous to anyone who gets involved with him.

Significant Themes

• Accidental humiliation and loss of face: Ziwei’s mistake becomes increasingly embarrassing because he does not initially realize it.
• Blame and scapegoating: Qin Fen causes the confusion but avoids responsibility, while Gouchen—who merely points it out—ends up bearing the consequences.
• Social manipulation through technicality: Qin Fen exploits the banquet’s literal purpose to justify Ziwei’s mistake, transforming an obvious blunder into a defensible interpretation.
• The danger of associating with Qin Fen: The immortals conclude that anyone who interacts with Qin Fen risks being dragged into a humiliating situation.
• Rivalry and schadenfreude: Gouchen takes pleasure in Ziwei’s embarrassment because of their competitive relationship, but his amusement quickly turns against him.

Character Interactions

• Ziwei and Qin Fen: Ziwei believes Qin Fen deliberately disrupted him, while Qin Fen acts innocently and later “defends” him. Their exchange leaves Ziwei unable to openly blame Qin Fen.
• Ziwei and Gouchen: Gouchen publicly calls out Ziwei’s mistake, exploiting their rivalry. Ziwei wants to retaliate but is forced to accept Qin Fen’s intervention instead.
• Qin Fen and Gouchen: Qin Fen directly accuses Gouchen of being wrong, despite Gouchen’s criticism being accurate. Gouchen is trapped into apologizing and becomes the chapter’s unwilling scapegoat.
• The immortals and the banquet hosts: Everyone silently observes the disaster, hiding their laughter while recognizing that Ziwei has embarrassed himself and Gouchen has been dragged into the fallout.

Chapter Summary: “Teammates Who Screw You Over!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ziwei successfully turns Qin Fen’s disruptive comment into an opportunity to mock Gouchen, relieving the awkwardness at the banquet.
• The Northern Dipper Star Lord reinforces Ziwei’s attack, implying that Gouchen has no real interest in the food or gathering and is merely there to cause trouble.
• Gouchen tries to defend himself, but his explanation only makes him appear more defensive. The other immortals interpret the exchange as everyone ganging up on him.
• Li Jing and Lü Dongbin recognize that Qin Fen has emerged as the true winner: although he caused the situation, Ziwei now feels indebted to him, while Gouchen takes all the blame.
• The immortals become increasingly wary of Qin Fen, viewing him as a dangerous “unseen variable” capable of manipulating events—or accidentally causing chaos—without suffering consequences.
• The Jade Emperor intervenes, ordering everyone to stop interrupting and focus on the gathering’s proper business. His real intention is to stop Ziwei and Gouchen from fighting and redirect Ziwei’s anger toward Qin Fen.
• Because the Jade Emperor speaks indirectly, Gouchen mistakenly believes the criticism is aimed at him. Frustrated, he gives up arguing and begins eating silently like Qin Fen.
• The Jade Emperor is left irritated and unable to clarify himself without losing face. He privately blames both Gouchen for misunderstanding and Qin Fen for dragging him into the conflict.
• With Gouchen subdued and the dispute apparently settled, Ziwei believes he has secured his position as host. He begins discussing his plans for the Spring Festival Gala.

Character Developments

• Qin Fen: Remains mostly passive, eating and drinking while others argue, but his presence unintentionally—or possibly deliberately—causes the entire conflict. His ability to benefit from chaos makes the immortals fear him.
• Ziwei: Recovers from his earlier embarrassment and gains confidence. He interprets the Jade Emperor’s intervention as support and believes Qin Fen is favorably aligned with him.
• Gouchen: Becomes the scapegoat despite merely making a factual correction. Feeling repeatedly attacked, he withdraws from the discussion and chooses to eat in silence.
• Jade Emperor: Attempts to restore cooperation through an indirect warning, but his ambiguous wording backfires. His pride prevents him from explaining himself, leaving him frustrated with both Gouchen and Qin Fen.
• Northern Dipper Star Lord: Acts loyally on Ziwei’s behalf, helping him maintain control of the conversation.
• Li Jing and Lü Dongbin: Correctly identify the deeper power dynamics, recognizing Qin Fen as the one who profits most from the dispute.

Significant Themes

• Unintended manipulation and hidden influence: Qin Fen may not be acting deliberately, but he repeatedly causes others to damage one another while escaping blame.
• Political maneuvering and scapegoating: The immortals prioritize alliances and appearances over fairness, making Gouchen the target of collective criticism.
• Pride and indirect communication: The Jade Emperor’s refusal to speak plainly creates further misunderstanding because preserving dignity matters more than clarifying intentions.
• Chaos as a source of advantage: Qin Fen’s disruption ultimately helps Ziwei secure the hosting role and strengthens his perceived influence.
• Perception versus reality: Ziwei mistakenly believes the Jade Emperor supports him, while the Jade Emperor actually intended to restrain the conflict and redirect blame.

Character Interactions

• Ziwei and the Northern Dipper Star Lord jointly target Gouchen, creating a temporary alliance.
• Gouchen protests against the accusations but is isolated when the others interpret the Jade Emperor’s words as another criticism of him.
• Li Jing and Lü Dongbin discuss how Qin Fen has manipulated the situation without appearing to participate.
• The Jade Emperor attempts to mediate between Ziwei and Gouchen, but his ambiguity worsens the misunderstanding.
• Ziwei ends the chapter in control of the gathering, preparing to present his Spring Festival Gala arrangements.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ziwei proposes that the Heavenly Court’s New Year’s Eve celebration be turned into a grand Spring Festival Gala, complete with songs, dances, public discussions, and testimonies from mortals who attained the Dao.
• His plan aims to make immortality attractive by showing mortals and demons the practical benefits of joining the Heavenly Court, while also presenting the court as approachable and connected to ordinary people.
• The Jade Emperor rejects Ziwei’s approach, arguing that the event should instead function as a military display. He suggests showcasing the Heavenly Court’s armies and powerful forces to intimidate mortals and the Demon Tribe.
• Li Jing supports the Jade Emperor, while Ziwei argues that excessive intimidation is unnecessary and that the Heavenly Court should win over mortals and demons, who form the foundation of its future growth.
• Qin Fen sides with Ziwei, turning the debate into a confrontation between two Imperial Lords and the Jade Emperor.
• The other Star Lords refuse to get involved. The Jade Emperor attempts to recruit Gouchen, but Gouchen deliberately remains silent because he resents having been pressured earlier.
• When forced to give an opinion, Gouchen sarcastically tells the Jade Emperor not to interrupt others, throwing the Jade Emperor’s earlier words back at him and leaving him humiliated.

Character Developments

• Ziwei demonstrates political skill and confidence, using the gala to promote the Heavenly Court’s influence and popularity. He becomes increasingly irritated when the Jade Emperor challenges his authority.
• The Jade Emperor is shown as proud, status-conscious, and deeply concerned with preserving the Heavenly Court’s majesty. His attempt to dominate the discussion backfires when he loses support and becomes the target of Gouchen’s retaliation.
• Qin Fen acts as a decisive power broker. By supporting Ziwei, he shifts the balance of the debate and intensifies the conflict among the Heavenly Court’s leaders.
• Gouchen displays stubbornness, independence, and a sharp sense of humor. He refuses to help the Jade Emperor and uses the situation to settle an earlier grudge.
• Li Jing remains conservative and militaristic, naturally favoring authority, deterrence, and displays of strength.
• The Star Lords behave cautiously, avoiding involvement in the dispute between the higher-ranking leaders.

Significant Themes

• Soft power versus intimidation: The debate centers on whether the Heavenly Court should win loyalty through connection and opportunity or through fear and military superiority.
• Public image and political legitimacy: Ziwei wants immortals to appear approachable, while the Jade Emperor prioritizes dignity, distance, and unquestioned authority.
• The importance of mortals and demons: Ziwei recognizes that the Heavenly Court’s long-term strength depends on attracting and cultivating these groups.
• Power struggles and factional politics: The gala becomes a stage for rivalry among the Heavenly Court’s leaders, with personal grudges influencing official policy.
• Irony and collateral conflict: The Jade Emperor attempts to control the meeting but ends up isolated and embarrassed, becoming an unintended victim of the political maneuvering.

Character Interactions

• Ziwei and the Jade Emperor clash over the purpose of the festival, with Ziwei advocating cooperation and the Jade Emperor demanding deterrence.
• Qin Fen’s support gives Ziwei the upper hand and leaves the Jade Emperor politically isolated.
• The Jade Emperor silently appeals to Gouchen for assistance, but Gouchen refuses out of resentment.
• Gouchen’s final remark—criticizing the Jade Emperor for interrupting—serves as a pointed public counterattack and highlights the chapter’s humor and factional tension.

Chapter Summary: “Qin Fen Is Such a Great Teammate!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• A quarrel between Ziwei and Gouchen unexpectedly shifts into a confrontation between Gouchen and the Jade Emperor. Gouchen deliberately interprets the Jade Emperor’s earlier remarks as insults directed at him, turning the Jade Emperor’s own words against him.
• The Jade Emperor realizes he has trapped himself: although he had intended to defend Gouchen, his wording gave Gouchen an opportunity to retaliate. Unable to deny what he said, he is forced to endure the embarrassment.
• Qin Fen and Ziwei attempt to calm the dispute. Gouchen, still irritated, declares that he will no longer speak and signals this by forming a turtle shape with his hands.
• The Jade Emperor, provoked by Gouchen, makes the same vow and copies the turtle gesture. Their mutual silence removes the two main obstacles to Ziwei’s plans.
• Seeing the situation turn in his favor, Ziwei assumes control of the discussion about the Spring Festival Gala. He proposes using the event to promote the Heavenly Court and encourage mortals to pursue cultivation.
• Ziwei suggests speeches and reports from mortals and immortals about their cultivation experiences, hardships, achievements, and insights. He also wants senior immortals to publicize the Heavenly Court’s accomplishments and strengthen its prestige.
• Qin Fen realizes that Ziwei’s plan has drifted away from the intended festive, accessible celebration. Instead of entertainment and communal joy, Ziwei is turning the gala into a formal ideological report meeting.
• Ziwei then invokes Qin Fen’s earlier statements about being down-to-earth and claims that Qin Fen supports his own proposal. He publicly asks Qin Fen to say more, intending to use Qin Fen’s reputation and influence to reinforce his authority.

Character Developments

• Ziwei becomes increasingly opportunistic and politically calculating. He quickly exploits the Jade Emperor and Gouchen’s conflict, then uses their silence to seize control of the event-planning discussion. He also borrows Qin Fen’s authority to make his ideas seem more legitimate.
• Gouchen demonstrates his sharp tongue and talent for retaliation. Rather than directly fighting, he weaponizes the Jade Emperor’s words and humiliates him through sarcasm. His decision to stop speaking is partly genuine frustration and partly another way to needle the Jade Emperor.
• The Jade Emperor suffers a rare loss of face. His attempt to control the conversation backfires, leaving him angry, embarrassed, and unable to defend himself. His imitation of Gouchen’s turtle gesture shows his childish competitiveness and wounded pride.
• Qin Fen remains mostly passive, eating while the others argue, but his previous emphasis on accessibility and connection with ordinary people becomes an important ideological contrast to Ziwei’s formal proposal. His reputation gives Ziwei political leverage.
• The Star Lords and officials generally follow Ziwei’s reasoning, showing how easily institutional support can gather around a persuasive proposal, even when its practical value is questionable.

Significant Themes

• Political manipulation and opportunism: Ziwei turns a personal quarrel into a political advantage and uses Qin Fen’s name to strengthen his own position.
• Pride and loss of face: The Jade Emperor and Gouchen’s argument is driven less by policy than by wounded dignity, sarcasm, and the desire to avoid appearing weak.
• Propaganda and public image: Ziwei views the gala as a tool for advertising the Heavenly Court, building prestige, and inspiring loyalty to cultivation and the celestial authorities.
• Theory versus practicality: Ziwei’s speeches and reports sound lofty and ideologically useful, but Qin Fen recognizes that ordinary mortals and demons may not understand or enjoy such a formal program.
• The importance of being “down-to-earth”: The chapter contrasts genuine popular entertainment and communal celebration with official messaging disguised as a festive event.

Character Interactions

• Gouchen and the Jade Emperor: Their exchange is a battle of sarcasm and pride. Gouchen retaliates against the Jade Emperor’s earlier provocation, while the Jade Emperor tries and fails to recover his authority.
• Qin Fen and Ziwei: Ziwei treats Qin Fen as an ideal political ally, even though Qin Fen has not explicitly endorsed the proposal. Ziwei assumes Qin Fen will not contradict him and uses their apparent partnership to bolster his influence.
• Ziwei and the assembled officials: Ziwei presents himself as a capable organizer and persuades the Star Lords to support his plan by framing it as a way to inspire mortals and strengthen the Heavenly Court.
• Qin Fen and the gala proposal: Qin Fen internally rejects Ziwei’s interpretation of “down-to-earth,” believing the celebration should focus on enjoyment, warmth, and accessibility rather than speeches and official reports.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin Fen promotes a down-to-earth, interactive Spring Festival Gala, emphasizing celebration and direct engagement with ordinary beings rather than a formal, preachy event.
• Ziwei repeatedly and enthusiastically endorses Qin Fen’s statements, believing Qin Fen is supporting his own proposal and helping strengthen his political position.
• Ziwei leads the court in applauding, toasting, and pledging support to Qin Fen, while the Jade Emperor and Gouchen deliberately remain uninvolved and privately mock the apparent alliance.
• Qin Fen eventually explains his actual plan: invite talented participants from the Heavenly Court, Demon Tribe, and mortal world, allowing immortals and mortals to perform together. He also rejects long speeches, report-style presentations, and excessive Dao lectures.
• Ziwei automatically praises this proposal, only to realize that Qin Fen is actually contradicting the kind of formal event Ziwei had envisioned.
• Qin Fen takes Ziwei’s praise as wholehearted support and gets the entire court to drink and pledge allegiance to the plan.
• Ziwei’s own followers, the Twenty-Eight Lunar Mansions, also publicly support Qin Fen, leaving Ziwei trapped by his earlier claims and deeply regretting his interference.

Character Developments

• Qin Fen is shown as politically shrewd and willing to exploit Ziwei’s excessive flattery. He appears cooperative but carefully advances his own vision, ultimately maneuvering Ziwei into endorsing it publicly.
• Ziwei becomes increasingly desperate to appear aligned with Qin Fen. His shameless praise initially seems advantageous, but his failure to understand Qin Fen’s actual position causes him to lose control of the situation.
• The Jade Emperor and Gouchen remain passive observers, refusing to participate in the toasts and privately enjoying Ziwei’s predicament. They recognize that Qin Fen’s alliance is dangerous.
• The Twenty-Eight Lunar Mansions and the other Heavenly Court departments follow the apparent consensus rather than independently examining the proposal, creating a comical atmosphere of confusion and political conformity.
• Matchmaker Yue, Li Jing, the Eight Immortals, and various departments eagerly echo the call for support, mainly to avoid opposing Qin Fen.

Significant Themes

• Political maneuvering and unintended consequences: Ziwei’s attempt to manipulate the meeting backfires when Qin Fen uses his own words against him.
• Miscommunication: Qin Fen and Ziwei believe they are cooperating, but they are actually pursuing different goals.
• Public conformity and group pressure: Once influential figures begin applauding and toasting, the rest of the court follows, even when confused.
• Humor through dramatic irony: Readers understand the characters’ conflicting intentions while the officials misinterpret the situation.
• Loss of control through excessive flattery: Ziwei’s overenthusiastic support leaves him unable to retract his position without appearing hypocritical.

Character Interactions

• Qin Fen repeatedly stresses his vision, while Ziwei enthusiastically mirrors and exaggerates his words.
• The Jade Emperor and Gouchen silently exchange judgmental looks and treat the apparent Qin Fen–Ziwei alliance as a spectacle.
• Qin Fen interprets Ziwei’s praise as genuine approval and confidently presents his own opposing proposal.
• Ziwei realizes too late that his “support” has publicly committed him and his faction to Qin Fen’s plan.
• The Twenty-Eight Lunar Mansions, believing Ziwei still supports the proposal, pledge themselves to Qin Fen—completing Ziwei’s humiliation and leaving him feeling that Qin Fen deliberately dug a pit for him to fall into.

Chapter Summary: The Jade Emperor and Gouchen Put on a Perfect Performance

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin Fen successfully takes control of the situation in the Heavenly Court by turning Ziwei’s earlier claims against him. Ziwei had loudly declared that he and Qin Fen were like family and that he would support Qin Fen unconditionally, but Qin Fen uses those statements to make Ziwei appear to endorse him completely.
• The Star Lords, including the Twenty-Eight Lunar Mansions, refuse to oppose Qin Fen. They believe Ziwei’s harsh criticism of Qin Fen was part of a coordinated plan and are unwilling to contradict their previous promises to support Qin Fen.
• Ziwei realizes that he has isolated himself and desperately seeks help from the Big Dipper Star Lord, Gouchen, and the Jade Emperor. None is willing to rescue him.
• Ziwei and the Jade Emperor secretly form an alliance through a meaningful exchange of glances. They agree to work together to prevent Qin Fen from presiding over the Heavenly Court, with the understanding that they will share the resulting Merit.
• Before the Jade Emperor can openly challenge Qin Fen, Gouchen refuses to participate. He reminds Ziwei that he had already vowed not to speak again, using a mocking “Wang Ba” gesture to emphasize that he will not risk losing face.
• The Jade Emperor is trapped by his own earlier vow, since he had made the same promise. He therefore refuses to speak as well, leaving Ziwei completely abandoned.
• Ziwei’s attempt to oppose Qin Fen collapses, and he realizes that inviting Qin Fen was a disastrous mistake.

Character Developments

• Qin Fen is shown as politically ruthless and extremely skilled at manipulating circumstances. Without directly confronting anyone, he turns the Heavenly Court’s alliances and promises to his advantage.
• Ziwei shifts from confident and ambitious to humiliated and helpless. His attempt to use Qin Fen as an ally backfires, and he becomes the target of everyone’s silent avoidance.
• Gouchen enjoys Ziwei’s downfall and deliberately refuses to help him. He protects himself by invoking his previous vow and uses humor and mockery to escape responsibility.
• The Jade Emperor initially enjoys seeing Ziwei suffer, then secretly allies with him to prevent Qin Fen’s rise. However, he is also caught by his own vow and chooses self-preservation over loyalty.
• The Big Dipper Star Lord is frustrated with Ziwei but cannot challenge Qin Fen himself. He regrets that his warnings were ignored.
• The other Star Lords act cautiously, avoiding both Qin Fen and Ziwei. Their priority is protecting themselves from the consequences of opposing Qin Fen.

Significant Themes

• Political manipulation and self-inflicted downfall: Ziwei’s own boastful statements become the weapon used against him.
• The danger of pride and ambition: Ziwei’s desire to appear powerful causes him to overplay his position and lose everyone’s support.
• Self-preservation over loyalty: The Jade Emperor, Gouchen, and the Star Lords all abandon Ziwei when helping him becomes dangerous.
• The consequences of vows and words: Repeated declarations and promises become binding obstacles, especially when the Jade Emperor and Gouchen’s vows prevent them from speaking.
• Comedic reversal and poetic justice: Those who previously allowed others to be trapped now experience the same helplessness themselves.

Character Interactions

• Qin Fen publicly presents himself as modest and devoted to the Heavenly Court, while implicitly exploiting Ziwei’s earlier claims of familial loyalty.
• Ziwei repeatedly appeals to the Big Dipper Star Lord, Gouchen, and the Jade Emperor, but receives only silence and avoidance.
• Ziwei and the Jade Emperor communicate through a brief, almost theatrically romantic exchange of glances, silently agreeing to join forces and divide the Merit.
• Gouchen deliberately exposes the Jade Emperor’s matching vow, forcing him to remain silent and destroying Ziwei’s last hope of resistance.
• By the end, Ziwei stands alone while Gouchen and the Jade Emperor effectively stage a united performance of helplessness, leaving Qin Fen in control.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• A meeting at the Hall of Stars collapses into a series of arguments among the three Imperial Lords: Ziwei, Gouchen, and the Jade Emperor.
• Ziwei had intended to form an alliance with Gouchen and the Jade Emperor against Dongwang Gong, Qin Fen, in order to share the benefits of a new project. Instead, the three Imperial Lords turn on one another, destroying Ziwei’s carefully planned alliance.
• Qin Fen remains largely silent during the disputes, allowing the others to undermine themselves. As a result, Dongwang Gong emerges as the only true beneficiary.
• After finishing breakfast, Qin Fen casually declares the project settled and outlines the entertainment for the upcoming gala. He emphasizes folk traditions and accessible performances such as singing, dancing, crosstalk, skits, and traditional arts.
• He assigns Ziwei responsibility for organizing the programs, specifically instructing him to choose entertaining, down-to-earth performances while avoiding content that could negatively influence children.
• Qin Fen leaves immediately afterward, having secured his objectives without making any apparent effort or suffering any losses.

2. Character Developments

• Qin Fen/Dongwang Gong: Demonstrates exceptional political skill and dominance through restraint, timing, and effortless authority. He lets others quarrel, then steps in to make the final decision. His natural confidence and casual behavior make him appear superior to the other Imperial Lords.
• Ziwei: Suffers a major loss of face. His alliance-building efforts fail, his authority as host is overshadowed, and he is left with the actual workload despite gaining none of the prestige. He becomes increasingly frustrated and humiliated.
• The Jade Emperor: Initially participates in attacking Gouchen and later Ziwei, but ultimately realizes how thoroughly Qin Fen has manipulated the situation. He is relieved not to have been the host.
• Gouchen: Enjoys Ziwei’s humiliation, believing it to be deserved after Ziwei’s earlier arrogance. He also recognizes Qin Fen’s ability to dominate the situation without appearing aggressive.
• The Big Dipper and other Star Lords: Observe the political maneuvering and conclude that Qin Fen is effectively the uncrowned ruler of the Heavenly Court.

3. Significant Themes

• Indirect power and political manipulation: Qin Fen gains control not through confrontation, but by allowing his rivals to weaken one another before taking charge.
• Appearance versus reality: Ziwei technically remains the host, yet Qin Fen controls the meeting, makes the decisions, and assigns the work.
• Humiliation through effortless dominance: Qin Fen’s casual behavior makes his suppression of Ziwei even more embarrassing because it appears completely natural.
• Cultural preservation: Qin Fen promotes folk arts and traditional entertainment as important parts of Yan-Huang heritage, emphasizing the need to preserve cultural traditions across the Three Thousand Worlds.
• Leadership and responsibility: The chapter contrasts Qin Fen’s decisive leadership with Ziwei’s ceremonial authority, showing that actual influence matters more than formal position.

4. Character Interactions

• The Jade Emperor, Gouchen, and Ziwei repeatedly criticize one another, causing their intended alliance to collapse.
• Qin Fen speaks to the group as though he were already the unquestioned leader, receiving immediate agreement from the Star Lords.
• Ziwei attempts to object to Qin Fen’s instructions, but Qin Fen disarms him by praising his prestige and “confidence” in his abilities.
• Qin Fen pats Ziwei on the shoulder like a superior encouraging a subordinate, intensifying the impression that Ziwei is merely his lackey.
• The Jade Emperor and Gouchen silently recognize that Qin Fen has stolen the entire spotlight while leaving Ziwei responsible for the project.
• The chapter ends with the three Imperial Lords realizing too late that Qin Fen has taken all the glory without anyone noticing until he is gone.

Chapter Summary: “Chaotic Three Thousand Worlds, News of an Acquaintance!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin Fen leaves the Heavenly Court after causing another disturbance, leaving the Three Imperial Lords speechless. The Heavenly Court’s Star Lords finally recognize that “Big Chef” is actually a trap.
• Feeling satisfied after eating, Qin Fen remembers that Queen Mother and the children have not eaten. He decides to cook Queen Mother breakfast as repayment for her long-standing support.
• Meanwhile, the Three Thousand Worlds are being engulfed by the Hungry Ghost Path. Entire worlds are transformed into living hells as vast armies of ravenous, intelligent evil ghosts spread across them.
• In Egypt, the Pharaoh and his forces watch an enormous horde of corpse-like ghosts approach their capital. Although the Pharaoh initially vows to defend his homeland, the ghosts overwhelm the city through sheer numbers and unstoppable regeneration.
• The evil ghosts prove far more dangerous than ordinary zombies: they retain intelligence, move quickly, fear neither death nor weapons, and consume anything living—or even dead, plant, or mineral—when starving.
• Hongjun observes the invasion from above and investigates the various worlds. He determines whether each world possesses native gods and avoids directly destroying worlds created by him.
• In another world resembling Europe, the Hungry Ghost disaster spreads through war and plague. Angels descend through a divine gate to purify the infected, but Hongjun dismisses the world as another unsuitable target and moves on.
• Hongjun continues appearing throughout the Three Thousand Worlds, systematically testing and corrupting them. He intends to convert godless worlds into realms resembling the Beast Realm while preserving the worlds themselves.
• Qin Fen remains unaware of the catastrophe. While preparing hand-pulled noodles for breakfast, he receives a message from an old acquaintance and reacts with amused suspicion, wondering why someone who knows he has been deceiving them would contact him.

Character Developments

• Qin Fen is shown as mischievous but also considerate. Despite his scams and schemes, he genuinely appreciates Queen Mother and wants to care for her and the children.
• Queen Mother remains an important but absent presence in the chapter, portrayed through Qin Fen’s memories as someone loyal and unconditionally supportive.
• The Pharaoh shifts from confidence to despair as his defenses prove useless against the Hungry Ghost horde. Despite this, he refuses to abandon his homeland.
• Hongjun demonstrates patience, caution, and strategic thinking. Rather than destroying the Three Thousand Worlds outright, he methodically corrupts them while preserving the foundations he hopes to rule in the future.
• The angels and native gods represent the resistance of worlds with established divine powers, though their efforts appear insufficient against the broader catastrophe.
• Qin Fen’s mysterious acquaintance is reintroduced as a potentially important figure whose message may connect to Qin Fen’s past schemes.

Significant Themes

• Devastation versus preservation: Hongjun wants to defeat Qin Fen without destroying the worlds he created, revealing his attachment to and ambition over the cosmos.
• The overwhelming force of numbers: The Hungry Ghost Path turns individual strength and conventional defenses meaningless through endless multiplication and relentless hunger.
• Moral complexity: Qin Fen is deceptive and self-serving, yet capable of gratitude and care; Hongjun is ruthless, but his strategy is shaped by long-term calculation rather than simple destruction.
• Cosmic transformation: The chapter expands the conflict from the Heavenly Court to the entire Three Thousand Worlds, showing that the struggle is becoming a multiversal catastrophe.
• False security: The Pharaoh’s confidence, the city walls, and even divine intervention cannot guarantee safety against the spreading Hungry Ghost Path.

Character Interactions

• Qin Fen’s thoughts about Queen Mother reveal a warm, informal relationship built on loyalty, gratitude, and mutual support.
• The Pharaoh argues with his frightened general and priests, insisting that his capital can withstand the invasion before being forced to confront the disaster’s scale.
• Hongjun observes and evaluates the worlds’ gods from a distance, avoiding direct conflict when a world’s divine structure makes corruption more difficult.
• The angelic forces attack the evil ghosts with religious confidence, but Hongjun silently judges their world and leaves.
• Qin Fen reacts to the incoming message from his acquaintance with amusement and suspicion, setting up a likely future interaction.

Chapter Summary: “Gods Here Too? Hongjun Bolted”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin Fen receives an unexpected WeChat message from Mitsui, a former devotee and ruler of the island nation. He wonders why Mitsui, whom he has nearly forgotten, is contacting him.
• Mitsui is dealing with a crisis: demons identified as part of the Night Parade of One Hundred Demons have overrun areas near Luzon, Ryukyu, and surrounding islands. The creatures are killing people, spreading plague, and unleashing evil ghosts.
• Eastern King Bazan of the Sulu Kingdom visits Mitsui and begs him for military assistance. However, Bazan quickly clarifies that he primarily wants Mitsui to summon Dong Re, the island nation’s supposed supreme deity.
• Mitsui hesitates, worried that Dong Re might favor Luzon as well and reduce his own exclusive relationship with the god. Nevertheless, Bazan’s plea appeals to Mitsui’s self-image as a benevolent ruler, so he agrees to offer sacrifices and pray.
• Mitsui begins the ritual and calls upon Dong Re. Qin Fen answers, asking what Mitsui wants.
• Qin Fen’s response causes the Three Thousand Worlds to tremble, while its laws subtly change.
• At the same time, Hongjun is searching above the East Sea for the source of a disturbance or a native deity. He senses a ripple but concludes that the location already has its own god. He leaves just before Qin Fen’s divine appearance.
• Qin Fen manifests through dazzling golden light over Tokyo, and the people of Kyoto enthusiastically proclaim that Lord Dong Re has appeared.

Character Developments

• Qin Fen remains largely detached from Mitsui’s political and supernatural troubles. His attention has been focused on the Heavenly Court and the upcoming Spring Festival Gala, leaving him unfamiliar with the Three Thousand Worlds and Hongjun’s activities.
• Mitsui is shown as anxious and self-interested but also eager to preserve his image as a divinely favored ruler. He enjoys being praised as Dong Re’s trusted confidant and tries to appear humble while accepting the admiration.
• Eastern King Bazan is desperate and pragmatic. Realizing that ordinary armies cannot defeat the demons, he abandons political solutions and places his hope in divine intervention.
• Hongjun continues investigating the Three Thousand Worlds and looking for a native deity. His brief appearance emphasizes his mysterious movements and his tendency to withdraw once he believes another god already occupies the region.
• Tokugawa/Ieyasu, Mitsui’s retainer, acts as a cautious adviser, reporting the crisis and helping Mitsui assess the threat.

Significant Themes

• Faith and divine reputation: Dong Re’s reputation has spread far beyond the island nation, turning Mitsui into an intermediary between desperate mortals and a supposedly powerful god.
• Political manipulation through religion: Mitsui uses divine favor to reinforce his authority, while Bazan seeks supernatural protection through diplomatic submission and religious appeal.
• Appearance versus reality: Mortals believe Dong Re is an established supreme deity, but the reader knows he is actually Qin Fen, who treats the situation casually and knows little about the larger cosmological structure.
• Unintended cosmic consequences: Qin Fen’s simple response triggers changes in the Three Thousand Worlds, suggesting that his actions have consequences far beyond what he understands.
• Comedic contrast: Serious events—demonic invasions, plague, and supernatural upheaval—are juxtaposed with Mitsui’s vanity, his bizarre reputation, and Qin Fen’s distracted attitude.

Character Interactions

• Qin Fen and Mitsui reconnect indirectly when Mitsui summons Dong Re, creating an interaction based on mistaken identities and religious devotion.
• Mitsui and his retainer discuss the demon crisis, with the retainer warning that supernatural creatures may be capable of crossing the sea.
• Mitsui and Bazan negotiate aid. Bazan repeatedly flatters Mitsui and begs for divine assistance, eventually persuading him to perform the ritual.
• Bazan’s desperate faith contrasts with Mitsui’s private jealousy and concern that Dong Re might gain new followers.
• Hongjun’s search overlaps with Qin Fen’s appearance, but the two narrowly miss one another, preserving the mystery surrounding their connection.

Chapter Summary: “This Preference... I’m Speechless!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Hongjun determines that the world is a “world of probabilities” because it has no true native gods. The supposed gods of the island nation were only creations of the Magic Brush.
• Mitsui summons Qin Fen for help after demons begin troubling the Sulu Kingdom in Luzon. Qin Fen manifests as the deity Dong Re, causing the world’s laws to change and making him a genuine god.
• Hongjun senses the appearance of a god and leaves, mistakenly believing that this world is not the one he is searching for. Qin Fen arrives only after Hongjun has departed, creating an ironic near-miss.
• Bazan, ruler of the Sulu Kingdom, asks Qin Fen to eliminate the demons. Qin Fen hesitates—not because he fears the demons, but because he does not know where Luzon or the Sulu Kingdom is.
• Qin Fen is interrupted by Queen Mother’s call and stops responding to Mitsui. Mitsui assumes the deity is displeased with him.
• Mitsui and Tokugawa discuss the island nation’s bizarre national policy: widespread cuckolding and “green hats.” Mitsui believes that encouraging this behavior pleases Dong Re and will earn divine protection.
• Tokugawa reveals that every household—including Mitsui’s—has been affected. Rather than being angry, Mitsui is delighted, believing that being cuckolded proves his loyalty to Dong Re.
• Bazan is bewildered by the island nation’s depravity and by Mitsui’s conviction that Dong Re favors such behavior. He nevertheless realizes that this belief may be important for gaining divine assistance.

Character Developments

• Qin Fen/Dong Re: Qin Fen remains powerful and confident, certain that demons in the lower worlds pose no threat. However, his limited education creates a comedic obstacle when he cannot identify Luzon or the Sulu Kingdom. His accidental silence is also misinterpreted as divine displeasure.
• Hongjun: His reduced status as an administrator limits his ability to monitor Qin Fen. He narrowly misses discovering the truth about Dong Re’s appearance and leaves the world under a false assumption.
• Mitsui: Mitsui is revealed as fanatically devoted to Dong Re. He interprets increasingly extreme and humiliating national conditions as religious offerings, believing that the deity’s favor matters more than morality, dignity, or national well-being.
• Tokugawa: Tokugawa serves as the exasperated voice of reason. He understands the disastrous social consequences of Mitsui’s policies but is powerless to stop them.
• Bazan: Initially focused on obtaining help against demons, Bazan becomes increasingly shocked by Mitsui’s behavior. By the end, however, he begins treating Mitsui’s strange belief about Dong Re’s preferences as useful religious knowledge.

Significant Themes

• Misunderstanding and mistaken interpretation: Qin Fen’s hesitation is caused by ignorance of geography, but Mitsui interprets it as divine displeasure. The humor repeatedly comes from characters assigning grand supernatural meanings to ordinary misunderstandings.
• Blind religious devotion: Mitsui justifies any behavior—including national corruption and personal humiliation—as long as he believes it will please his god.
• Absurdity and satire: The chapter mocks authoritarian policies, irrational worship, and the tendency to treat bizarre social outcomes as proof of success.
• Power and divine protection: Characters believe that divine favor can guarantee peace, prosperity, and even immortality, revealing how desperation encourages people to overlook reason and morality.
• Irony: Qin Fen does not actually favor the behavior Mitsui associates with Dong Re, yet Mitsui’s mistaken belief continues to shape events and may lead to further chaos.

Character Interactions

• Hongjun and Qin Fen: They never meet directly in the chapter, but Qin Fen’s arrival immediately after Hongjun leaves creates dramatic irony.
• Qin Fen and Mitsui: Mitsui enthusiastically summons Qin Fen for help, but Qin Fen’s geographical confusion and sudden interruption make Mitsui believe he has offended the deity.
• Mitsui and Tokugawa: Their exchange contrasts Mitsui’s fanaticism with Tokugawa’s despair. Mitsui celebrates the nation’s “green hats,” while Tokugawa recognizes the social disaster they represent.
• Mitsui and Bazan: Bazan seeks practical help against demons, but Mitsui instead overwhelms him with his bizarre theology. Bazan ends the chapter confused but eager to remember what he thinks Dong Re likes.

Chapter Summary: The Rise of Great Dong Re

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin Fen notices that Queen Mother has been sleeping badly and experiencing unusually vivid dreams. He suspects this may be connected to Female Hooligan and the others, but decides not to reveal the truth yet.
• Qin Fen begins planning a way to earn more Merit during the Spring Festival. He considers restoring the Chinese Zodiac’s abandoned divine positions, believing that reviving such an important cultural tradition would generate enormous public support and Merit.
• While preparing breakfast, Qin Fen and Queen Mother engage in flirtatious, double-meaning dialogue about “getting to know each other more deeply” and being “completely open.” Both understand the suggestive implications, though Qin Fen pretends to speak innocently.
• Queen Mother becomes increasingly comfortable in Qin Fen’s home and quietly admits that she may not want to return to Kunlun, suggesting her emotional attachment to him and her enjoyment of their domestic relationship.
• In the Three Thousand Worlds, Bazan consults Mitsui about the strange and humiliating practice associated with the god Dong Re. Mitsui reveals that he has adopted it as a national policy.
• Mitsui orders Tokugawa to ensure that the policy remains unchanged for five hundred years. Tokugawa is distressed but cannot resist because of Mitsui’s cruelty and political power.
• Mitsui explains that Dong Re worship has become Yamato’s dominant state religion. Numerous branches and sects have emerged, but all ultimately worship Dong Re and reinforce his influence.
• Bazan is persuaded that Mitsui has effectively united politics and religion, allowing Dong Re’s teachings to control the nation and preventing opposition.

Character Developments

• Qin Fen displays his usual opportunism and strategic thinking. He sees the restoration of the Chinese Zodiac not only as a cultural project but also as a way to gain Merit and help Queen Mother advance toward sainthood.
• Queen Mother becomes more emotionally attached to Qin Fen. Her peaceful enjoyment of watching him cook and her reluctance to return to Kunlun reveal that she increasingly values their shared domestic life.
• Qin Fen and Queen Mother’s relationship grows more openly flirtatious. Their conversation shows mutual attraction, though both continue to hide behind wordplay and indirect expressions.
• Mitsui is portrayed as ruthless, ambitious, and completely willing to sacrifice personal dignity for immortality and political power. He treats Dong Re worship as the foundation of his authority.
• Tokugawa becomes a reluctant victim of Mitsui’s policies. He is humiliated, morally troubled, and frightened, but too intimidated to disobey.
• Bazan begins skeptical and embarrassed by Mitsui’s actions but gradually becomes impressed by the effectiveness of the state religion and its political structure.

Significant Themes

• Power through religion: Mitsui uses Dong Re worship to legitimize his rule and eliminate resistance, demonstrating how faith can be transformed into a political tool.
• Cultural revival and divine authority: Qin Fen’s idea of restoring the Chinese Zodiac reflects the connection between tradition, public belief, and supernatural power.
• Satire of nationalism and organized religion: The chapter humorously exaggerates the creation of a state religion, showing how propaganda and mass devotion can normalize even absurd or degrading practices.
• Desire versus dignity: Mitsui values immortality and power more than honor or reputation, while Queen Mother and Qin Fen’s flirtation presents desire in a lighter, more personal form.
• Misinterpretation and rumor: Qin Fen’s actions are distorted into evidence that he enjoys cuckolding, illustrating the gap between intention and public interpretation.
• Domestic comfort versus duty: Queen Mother’s growing attachment to Qin Fen’s home contrasts with her responsibilities as ruler of Kunlun.

Character Interactions

• Qin Fen and Queen Mother: Their breakfast conversation is playful and suggestive. Qin Fen cooks for her, while she watches him affectionately and hints that she would rather remain with him than return to Kunlun.
• Mitsui and Tokugawa: Mitsui commands Tokugawa to enforce the five-hundred-year policy. Tokugawa’s private anguish contrasts with Mitsui’s cold determination.
• Mitsui and Bazan: Bazan questions whether Dong Re truly supports such bizarre behavior. Mitsui defends it as a divine strategy and explains how religious unity has secured Yamato’s stability.
• Mitsui and Dong Re: Although Dong Re is not physically present, his influence dominates the entire political discussion. Mitsui’s devotion turns the deity into both a source of personal advancement and the ideological center of the nation.

Chapter Summary: “Beasts! Qin Fen Became a Hero!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Bazan is persuaded by Mitsui’s unconventional governing strategy, which combines authoritarian rule, popular spiritual support, and the supposed miracles of the “Great God Dong Re.”
• Mitsui explains that by making himself Dong Re’s spokesperson and spreading Dong Re worship throughout Yamato, he has secured the people’s loyalty and made his position nearly impossible to challenge.
• Bazan, hoping to strengthen his own rule and protect Luzon from demons, decides to imitate Mitsui and place his nation under Dong Re’s “protection.”
• Mitsui instructs Bazan to establish shrines, promote Dong Re’s beliefs, create national policies based on Dong Re’s preferences, and use attractive, devoted female ambassadors to spread the movement.
• Mitsui proposes constantly inventing new “series” and themes to keep Dong Re interested, while Bazan enthusiastically adds further ideas.
• Bazan asks Mitsui to contact Dong Re and declare Luzon’s submission. Mitsui summons Qin Fen, believing Luzon’s offer will please him.
• Qin Fen reads Mitsui’s messages and is horrified by how far his earlier deception has gone. He realizes Mitsui and Bazan have interpreted his instructions as a plan to turn entire nations into “beastly” societies.
• When Qin Fen learns that Luzon refers to the Philippines, he jokingly concludes that he may have unintentionally become a national hero there as well.

Character Developments

• Mitsui: Becomes increasingly fanatical and self-satisfied as Dong Re’s representative. He believes his bizarre policies are divinely inspired and enthusiastically seeks to expand them internationally.
• Bazan: Transforms from a skeptical observer into an eager convert. Desperate to save Luzon and consolidate his own authority, he accepts Mitsui’s methods and begins contributing ideas to the movement.
• Qin Fen: Is confronted with the consequences of his past manipulation of Mitsui. Though he considers himself upright and innocent, he recognizes that his earlier “guidance” created Mitsui’s extreme behavior and has damaged his reputation.

Significant Themes

• Satire of political propaganda and religious fanaticism: Mitsui uses divine authority, national policy, and mass persuasion to make his rule unassailable.
• The corruption of good intentions: Qin Fen’s original joke or deception spirals into a full political and religious system beyond his control.
• Power through popular belief: Both Mitsui and Bazan see Dong Re worship as a way to gain legitimacy, suppress opposition, and protect their nations.
• Absurdity and unintended consequences: The chapter humorously depicts how nonsensical ideas can become official policy when leaders sincerely believe they are divinely sanctioned.
• Expansion of influence: Dong Re’s supposed “empire” grows not through conquest alone, but through rulers voluntarily submitting their nations to his ideology.

Character Interactions

• Mitsui flatters and recruits Bazan, presenting himself as an experienced guide in political and religious manipulation.
• Bazan admires Mitsui’s success and seeks to copy his methods in Luzon.
• The two rulers reinforce each other’s fanaticism, escalating Mitsui’s ideas into even more extreme proposals.
• Qin Fen’s reaction contrasts sharply with their enthusiasm: he is embarrassed and alarmed by the movement they have created, yet accepts that he bears responsibility for setting it in motion.

Chapter Summary: An Unintended Act Leads to Flourishing Results

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin Fen plays a recording so those around him can hear his conversation with Eastern King Bazan and Mitsui.
• Qin Fen sarcastically insults Bazan’s strange scheme, calling him “not human” and a “beast.”
• Mitsui and Bazan completely misunderstand the sarcasm, interpreting Qin Fen’s insults as divine praise from the god Dong Re.
• Bazan credits Mitsui for guiding him, while Mitsui proudly declares that he wants to become an even greater “beast.”
• Qin Fen reluctantly labels both men as beasts. Rather than feeling insulted, they gratefully accept the titles and congratulate each other.
• Tokugawa witnesses the exchange and is horrified that Mitsui and Bazan are eagerly begging for further insults.
• Qin Fen realizes that his careless manipulation has influenced the two men and may have created a dangerous political mess involving their countries. He worries that Heaven may punish him for misleading them.
• The Queen Mother advises Qin Fen to be cautious because of his elevated status and promises that they will face any consequences together.
• A news alert announces that the Beast Realm has been established, the Six Paths of Reincarnation are complete, and reincarnation and cosmic order have begun to recover.
• Qin Fen then receives a message stating that WeChat has upgraded to its Heaven-tier version and that his actions have finally earned a reward.

Character Developments

• Qin Fen becomes increasingly exasperated and guilty. Though he intended only to mock Bazan and Mitsui, he realizes they have treated his sarcasm as divine revelation and may act upon it.
• Mitsui displays extreme fanaticism and shameless devotion. He takes pride in being called a bastard and then a beast, viewing Qin Fen’s insults as recognition and encouragement.
• Bazan proves equally gullible and eager to please. He accepts the title of “beast” as a divine honor and reinforces Mitsui’s beliefs.
• Tokugawa develops greater awe and fear of Qin Fen, believing the “god” truly sees and judges everything. He is also embarrassed by his superiors’ lack of dignity.
• The Queen Mother acts as a calm and supportive counterbalance to Qin Fen’s anxiety, urging caution while assuring him of her solidarity.

Significant Themes

• Miscommunication and unintended consequences: Qin Fen’s sarcasm is misread as divine approval, producing results far beyond his intentions.
• Blind worship and fanaticism: Mitsui and Bazan are so devoted that they welcome humiliation if it comes from their supposed god.
• Power and responsibility: Qin Fen’s growing influence means even casual remarks can reshape people, nations, and possibly entire realms.
• Cosmic order emerging from chaos: What begins as deception and absurdity unexpectedly contributes to the creation of the Beast Realm, completion of reincarnation, and restoration of universal order.
• Irony and satire: Insults become honors, foolishness becomes devotion, and Qin Fen’s apparent wrongdoing earns him merit and a divine system upgrade.

Character Interactions

• Qin Fen repeatedly insults Mitsui and Bazan, while both men respond with gratitude and praise.
• Mitsui and Bazan encourage and validate each other, forming a bizarre brotherhood based on their shared desire to embody Qin Fen’s idea of “beastliness.”
• Tokugawa silently reacts with shock and embarrassment to their behavior.
• Qin Fen confides in the Queen Mother about his fear of divine punishment, and she comforts him.
• The chapter ends with Qin Fen discovering that, despite his guilt and confusion, his actions have helped trigger a major positive development in the realms and earned him a Heaven-tier WeChat upgrade.

Chapter Summary: “Six Paths Complete, Heavenly Court in Chaos”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin Fen unintentionally completes the Six Paths of Reincarnation by establishing the Beast Realm, a world populated by beasts.
• The achievement triggers a Heavenly Dao Proclamation, an event that affects the entire Celestial Realm and grants Qin Fen another massive amount of Merit.
• Qin Fen is confused and horrified by what he has accomplished. Rather than celebrating the immeasurable Merit, he complains that he is overwhelmed and feels sick of receiving it.
• The entire Celestial Realm reacts to the proclamation. Qin Fen once again dominates the Merit Stele and the Heavenly Court’s attention, having monopolized major proclamations for nearly a year.
• Major figures from both the Buddhist and Daoist factions express shock, admiration, jealousy, or frustration at Qin Fen’s effortless success.
• Tathagata predicts that Qin Fen is destined to become a Saint, since completing the Six Paths through his own power represents an achievement that rivals the creation of Heaven and Earth.
• Nüwa notices an unusual detail in the proclamation: instead of using Qin Fen’s imperial titles, the Heavenly Dao refers to him simply by name. She interprets this as a sign that Qin Fen may soon step into a new, more important role connected to Hongjun and orders Azure Luan to monitor him.
• Meanwhile, Hongjun remains outside the Celestial Realm, conquering one world after another. He believes Qin Fen cannot defeat him while the Six Paths remain incomplete and plans to kill Qin Fen when he eventually returns.
• Qin Fen finally explains that he did almost nothing beyond cursing at “two beasts.” His casual wording created a precise Heavenly Dao definition: a separate world inhabited by beasts could be designated the Beast Realm, completing the Six Paths.

Character Developments

• Qin Fen: His power and influence continue to grow almost accidentally. He remains detached from the significance of his achievements and is more troubled by receiving endless Merit than excited by it. His ability to achieve world-shaking results through casual actions emphasizes how abnormal and overwhelming his fortune has become.
• Queen Mother: Initially worried that Qin Fen has suffered some disaster, she becomes exasperated when she learns he has merely gained more Merit. She is amazed that even his complaints and casual remarks can produce cosmic achievements.
• Nüwa: Demonstrates exceptional insight by recognizing the unusual wording of the Heavenly Dao Proclamation. Her interest in Qin Fen increases, and she decides to leave the Outer Thirty-Three Heavens to meet him.
• Tathagata: Becomes convinced that Qin Fen will eventually attain Sainthood, viewing the completion of the Six Paths as proof that Qin Fen possesses extraordinary destiny.
• Jade Emperor: Reacts with jealousy and refuses to accept Qin Fen’s success as anything more than luck. He vows to become the Dao Ancestor’s representative and surpass him.
• Lord Lao, Primordial Lord, and other celestial figures: Display astonishment at Qin Fen’s ability to overcome what should have been an increasingly difficult bottleneck.
• Hongjun: Remains confident in his campaign to conquer the worlds. He sees Qin Fen as vulnerable without the completed Six Paths and intends to confront and kill him.

Significant Themes

• Effortless greatness versus painstaking effort: Qin Fen achieves in less than a year what the Buddhist and Daoist schools spent countless years pursuing, often without realizing what he has done.
• The burden of extraordinary fortune: While others desperately seek Merit, Qin Fen is so saturated with it that he feels nauseated. His success has become less a reward than an inconvenience.
• Fate, destiny, and Heavenly Dao: The proclamation suggests that Qin Fen’s rise is sanctioned by Heaven itself. Nüwa’s interpretation of the changed wording hints that his role may be evolving beyond conventional titles and identities.
• Jealousy and admiration: Qin Fen’s achievements divide the Celestial Realm between those who worship his power, those who envy him, and those who fear the consequences of his continued advancement.
• The power of definitions and words: Qin Fen’s offhand reference to “beasts” becomes a formal cosmic classification. The chapter highlights how, within the Heavenly Dao, precise naming and conceptual definition can shape reality.
• Chaos beneath apparent success: Although Qin Fen has completed the Six Paths, Hongjun’s conquests continue unchecked, creating an impending conflict between Qin Fen’s rise and Hongjun’s growing power.

Character Interactions

• The Queen Mother comforts Qin Fen, mistakenly believing he has been punished or frightened, then becomes frustrated when he reveals that his “problem” is receiving too much Merit.
• Qin Fen’s attitude clashes humorously with the Queen Mother’s expectations: she views immeasurable Merit as an unparalleled blessing, while he treats it as an exhausting nuisance.
• Nüwa discusses the proclamation with Azure Luan and reveals her belief that Qin Fen’s altered designation signals Hongjun’s possible return to prominence.
• Celestial and Buddhist figures react collectively to Qin Fen’s accomplishment, with Guanyin and Ksitigarbha praising him while the Jade Emperor resents him.
• Hongjun’s thoughts establish him as Qin Fen’s looming opponent, confident that the incomplete Six Paths leave Qin Fen unable to challenge him—an assumption the latest proclamation may have disproved.

After WeChat upgraded Qin Fen to its Heavenly-Grade 9.0 Ultimate Edition, he used his authority to push Bazan and Mitsui toward competing to become Beast King. While preparing noodles for the Queen Mother, he gave her the Zodiac Astral Chart, and the younger sister noticed it.

• Qin Fen received WeChat’s Heavenly-Grade 9.0 upgrade, gaining blacklist, Delete Friend, and Unfollow functions and the option to display himself as the Dao Ancestor.
• Bazan asked Qin Fen what to do about Luzon, and Qin Fen urged him and Mitsui to follow the Beastly Path and compete to become Beast King.
• Bazan and Mitsui each vowed to pursue the Beast King title, setting their countries on the Beastly Path for generations.
• Qin Fen took out the Zodiac Astral Chart while preparing noodles, and the Queen Mother showed interest in it.
• Qin Fen gave the chart to the Queen Mother, but a knock brought the Female Hooligan and her sister to the door before she could take it.
• After the Queen Mother went upstairs, the younger sister approached Qin Fen and fixed her gaze on the golden astral chart.

Qin Fen realized the Zodiac Star Chart might be the divine seat of the Chinese Zodiac, and his words triggered a disturbance across the realms. Twelve ancient banners and figures appeared in the Earthly Immortal Realm, but golden beams destroyed the banners, while a bull-horned head announced its return in the Three Thousand Worlds.

• Qin Fen refused to give his sister-in-law the Zodiac Star Chart because he had promised it to a woman, and she assumed he meant her older sister, the Queen Mother.
• Qin Fen admitted he liked the Queen Mother and agreed to let his sister-in-law deliver the chart and hint at his feelings for him.
• Qin Fen connected the Zodiac Star Chart to the Chinese Zodiac and wondered if it could restore the Twelve Palaces to their rightful positions.
• Twelve black banners and enormous figures appeared in the Earthly Immortal Realm, alarming Lord Lao, Primordial Lord, Tongtian, Tathagata, and the other powerful beings.
• Qin Fen identified the chart as the Chinese Zodiac’s divine seat, and twelve golden beams immediately smashed the banners to dust.
• Six black flames rose in the Three Thousand Worlds, where a bull-horned head flew into the sky and declared, "I'm back!"