Chapter Summaries

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Prince Qi rewards Steward Chen with ten taels of silver for successfully approaching Duan Qin and creating a connection with the Duan Residence.
• Prince Qi recognizes that General Duan Yanxing controls part of the Imperial Guards and could become crucial in a future succession struggle. However, he doubts Duan Yanxing would openly defect while the Emperor remains powerful.
• Steward Chen suggests deepening contact with Duan Qin, but Prince Qi warns that the Duan family will not be easily won over. He prefers to maintain a subtle connection rather than force a commitment.
• At the Duan Residence, Duan Qin reports his meeting with Steward Chen. Duan Yanxing immediately suspects the encounter was arranged by Prince Qi rather than being accidental.
• Duan Yanxing analyzes the political danger of aligning himself with Prince Qi. Although he favors Prince Qi and believes the prince is respected by military men, he refuses to become involved openly, fearing the Emperor’s suspicion and retaliation.
• Duan Yanxing compares the conflict between Prince Qi and the Marquis of Dai to a larger struggle influenced by the Emperor. He decides to remain neutral and wait for a safer opportunity, though he permits Duan Qin to cautiously “test the waters” without making promises.
• At the Dai Marquis Residence, Su Ziji reveals that the meeting with Duan Qin was deliberately arranged. He instructs Wild Daoist to maintain only the initial connection and avoid prolonged contact, since repeated “coincidental” meetings would expose their intentions.
• Su Ziji returns exhausted and still suffering from dizziness. Ye Buhui personally supports him to bed, cares for him, and watches over him until he falls asleep.

Character Developments

• Prince Qi demonstrates strategic patience and political awareness. He understands the value of Duan Yanxing’s military influence but knows that direct pressure could provoke resistance or alert the Emperor.
• Steward Chen grows more ambitious after receiving Prince Qi’s approval. His eagerness to build further connections reveals both loyalty and political naivety.
• Duan Yanxing is shown to be cautious, perceptive, and deeply aware of the Emperor’s power. Though sympathetic toward Prince Qi, his primary concern is preserving his military authority and avoiding becoming a target.
• Duan Qin is willing to strengthen ties with Prince Qi but lacks his master’s caution. His eagerness earns him a rebuke, though Duan Yanxing still allows him to conduct limited investigations.
• Su Ziji emerges as a careful behind-the-scenes strategist who uses indirect contacts and controlled appearances to influence the political situation without exposing himself.
• Ye Buhui displays tenderness, strength, and devotion toward Su Ziji. Her physical growth and increased capability allow her to care for him independently.

Significant Themes

• Political caution and survival: Military power is dangerous when combined with visible political allegiance. Duan Yanxing understands that losing the Emperor’s trust could lead to destruction.
• Indirect manipulation: Prince Qi and Su Ziji both rely on subtle contacts, tests, and plausible deniability rather than open alliances.
• The danger of suspicion: In the imperial power struggle, even innocent-looking meetings may be interpreted as political conspiracies.
• Waiting for the right moment: Several characters recognize that premature action could be fatal; patience is treated as a form of strength.
• Trust and loyalty: Steward Chen values Prince Qi’s trust, while Ye Buhui’s quiet care for Su Ziji provides a personal contrast to the chapter’s political maneuvering.

Character Interactions

• Prince Qi and Steward Chen discuss the approach to the Duan family, with Prince Qi correcting Chen’s overenthusiastic proposal.
• Duan Yanxing questions Duan Qin about the teahouse meeting and warns him against rashly forming ties with Prince Qi.
• Su Ziji gives Wild Daoist precise instructions about limiting contact with the Duan family to preserve the appearance of coincidence.
• Ye Buhui supports and cares for the exhausted Su Ziji, highlighting the affection and trust between them.

Chapter Summary: The Seven-Orificed Exquisite Heart

Key Plot Points and Events

• Su Ziji awakens suddenly from a vivid nightmare, alarming Ye Buhui and the two foxes sleeping in the outer room.
• Ye Buhui cares for him attentively, arranging hot water, fresh clothes, and nourishing green polished rice porridge with several delicacies.
• Su Ziji reassures her that he is fine, explaining that he dreamed she became the Chess Sage. He hints that the dream contained much more disturbing and significant material.
• After Ye Buhui returns to sleep, Su Ziji goes to the Book of Documents room to record and analyze the dream rather than dismissing it as an ordinary nightmare.
• He reflects on the principle that “the Way of Utmost Sincerity allows foreknowledge,” concluding that the dream may reveal future events.
• He writes down the most important images from the dream:
  • Ye Buhui wins first place in next year’s chess competition and becomes the Chess Sage.
  • She enters the Dao through chess, sheds her mortal limitations, and gains a path of cultivation comparable to Su Ziji’s.
  • The Emperor reacts strangely when Ye Buhui’s spiritual aperture opens, appearing to view her as a rare and valuable treasure.
• The chapter ends with Su Ziji wondering whether Ye Buhui possesses a Seven-Orificed Exquisite Heart, suggesting that her special constitution may explain the Emperor’s reaction and her extraordinary destiny.

Character Developments

• Su Ziji: His nightmare reveals his growing sensitivity to prophecy and the consequences of future events. Though he initially minimizes the dream to calm Ye Buhui, he takes it seriously and methodically records its details. He also shows deep concern for Ye Buhui’s cultivation and future, hoping she will advance alongside him rather than remain behind.
• Ye Buhui: She demonstrates her loving, practical care for Su Ziji by personally tending to his needs and preparing food after his troubled awakening. Her potential to become the Chess Sage and enter the Dao marks a major elevation in her importance and future prospects.
• The Little Fox and Big Fox: Their humorous sleeping interaction provides comic relief. The Little Fox is trapped beneath Big Fox but ultimately tolerates his clinginess when she senses his nightmares and distress.
• The Emperor: Though absent from the present events, his unsettling reaction in Su Ziji’s dream establishes him as a possible threat or schemer interested in Ye Buhui’s unusual nature.

Significant Themes

• Dreams as prophecy: Su Ziji believes extraordinary dreams may contain foreknowledge, especially for someone pursuing spiritual sincerity and cultivation.
• Shared cultivation and partnership: Su Ziji wants Ye Buhui to progress with him, reflecting their bond as childhood sweethearts, spouses, and companions who have endured hardship together.
• Fate and predetermined paths: Their earlier encounter in the Dragon Palace appears to have set their future directions—Su Ziji toward the Coiling Dragon Heart Method and Ye Buhui toward the Chess Path.
• Hidden potential and exceptional destiny: The possible Seven-Orificed Exquisite Heart suggests that Ye Buhui possesses a rare, perhaps coveted spiritual constitution.
• Care and domestic intimacy: The quiet morning routines, Ye Buhui’s personal attention, and the foxes’ affectionate quarrel contrast with the larger concerns of cultivation, imperial power, and destiny.

Character Interactions

• Ye Buhui comforts Su Ziji after his nightmare, prepares his food, and gently questions him about the dream.
• Su Ziji reassures her while teasingly revealing that she becomes the Chess Sage, strengthening their affectionate relationship.
• Ye Buhui initially refuses to leave him alone, showing concern, but eventually returns to sleep when he insists he is well.
• The foxes provide a parallel display of companionship: Big Fox unconsciously clings to Little Fox during nightmares, while she complains but ultimately lets him remain close.

Chapter Summary: “Three Divine Treasuries”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Su Ziji analyzes his prophetic dreams and records several unresolved matters:
  • Zhou Yao’s extraordinary talent in music and her potential to “enter the Dao through zither.”
  • Ye Buhui’s pregnancy and the possibility that the attack in his dream targeted her unborn child.
  • The emergence of supernatural phenomena, including monsters, ghosts, strange deaths, and the revival of Daoist powers.
• He suspects that Ye Buhui’s future child could become the eldest legitimate heir, greatly strengthening his position in the succession struggle. Because of this, he believes the dream attack may have been politically motivated.
• Su Ziji considers testing whether his dreams reflect reality by investigating Duan Qin, Duan Yanxing’s deceased servant, who supposedly became a dangerous ghost after death.
• He summons the Wild Daoist and orders him to investigate:
  • Duan Qin’s ancestry and birth details.
  • Experts skilled in matching birth characters.
  • Recent unusual events in the Southern Border.
• Su Ziji examines his attributes and realizes that his Intelligence has reached 20, allowing him to comprehend the Wisdom Divine Treasury.
• He recalls historical periods when supernatural phenomena flourished, noting that the current developments resemble the era of Emperor Shizu of Great Wei, when monsters and Daoist practitioners became prominent.
• He resolves to pursue both political power and the Dao. His immediate goals are to maximize Charm and Aptitude, unlock the Three Divine Treasuries, strengthen neglected artistic and scholarly abilities, and discreetly suppress the signs of Ye Buhui’s Chess Sage status.

Character Developments

• Su Ziji: Becomes more alert to the political and supernatural consequences of his dreams. Although uneasy about unpredictable changes, he grows more ambitious and decides to compete not only for the position of Imperial Grandson but also for mastery of the Dao. He begins taking his attributes and artistic skills seriously.
• Ye Buhui: Her pregnancy becomes strategically significant. As Su Ziji’s principal wife, she could give birth to the legitimate heir, making both her and her unborn child potential targets.
• Zhou Yao: Su Ziji’s view of her changes from seeing her merely as a devoted fiancée to recognizing her exceptional musical talent and possible future attainment of the Dao through the zither.
• The Wild Daoist: Demonstrates his continued loyalty and discretion by accepting Su Ziji’s unusual orders without questioning them.
• Duan Qin: His transformation into a ghost is presented as an unexplained anomaly, suggesting that his background or destiny may be important.

Significant Themes

• Fate versus uncertainty: Su Ziji struggles to determine whether his dreams are genuine prophecies or merely possibilities, while trying to act without revealing his suspicions.
• Political succession: A legitimate heir would strengthen Su Ziji’s claim and reassure potential supporters, making family, marriage, and pregnancy matters of political importance.
• The return of the supernatural: The chapter signals a historical cycle in which monsters, ghosts, Dao arts, and supernatural events begin reappearing after centuries of decline.
• Ambition and adaptation: Su Ziji chooses to embrace the changing world rather than resist it, intending to exploit his advantages in both politics and cultivation.
• Hidden potential: Attributes, artistic abilities, birth characters, and latent destinies may determine whether individuals can access higher realms or become involved in supernatural events.

Character Interactions

• Su Ziji instructs the Wild Daoist to investigate Duan Qin, birth-character experts, and developments in the Southern Border. Their exchange highlights the Wild Daoist’s obedience and trust.
• Su Ziji’s thoughts about Ye Buhui reveal his protective concern but also show that he views her pregnancy through the lens of dynastic succession.
• His reflections on Zhou Yao demonstrate how his understanding of her has evolved as he recognizes her musical gifts.
• The chapter contains no direct interaction with Ye Buhui or Zhou Yao, but their futures heavily influence Su Ziji’s decisions and plans.

Su Ziji visited Minister Jiang and asked to buy two treasured works from his collection while Eunuch Zhao secretly watched and listened. Minister Jiang refused to part with them under Eunuch Zhao’s pressure.

• Su Ziji arrived at the Jiang Estate, and Jiang Zongfang’s son hurried to tell his father that the Marquis of Dai had come.
• Eunuch Zhao and Guard Huang hid in a modified chamber beside the reception hall so they could observe Su Ziji’s visit.
• Su Ziji told Minister Jiang that he had come to seek his advice on calligraphy and painting, then declined to discuss affairs of state.
• Su Ziji asked to purchase the Hundred Blessings Birthday Greeting and the Ink Bamboo Painting from Minister Jiang’s collection.
• Minister Jiang glanced toward Eunuch Zhao’s hiding place and told Su Ziji that he could not part with the two works.

Su Ziji bought two artworks from Minister Jiang, strengthening his painting and calligraphy skills while continuing to seek pieces for his Thousand Blessings Painting. Eunuch Zhao’s surveillance found no hidden purpose in Su Ziji’s visits, and Zhao decided to report his findings to the emperor.

• Su Ziji initially prepared to leave Minister Jiang’s estate, but accepted two artworks for three hundred taels after Jiang offered them to support his filial project.
• Su Ziji absorbed the calligraphy and painting from the works, raising both skills to level 14, then declined Jiang’s invitation and left.
• At the Dai Marquis Residence, Su Ziji refused a visiting request from Lord Hao of the Ministry of War and considered his plan to implicate Duan Qin and Steward Chen through their contact.
• Su Ziji added another blessing character to his painting while Eunuch Zhao’s surveillance confirmed that he sought artworks at each official’s estate.
• After Su Ziji refused Lord Hao and no further activity occurred, Eunuch Zhao returned to the palace to report to the emperor.

Eunuch Zhao reported that the Marquis of Dai had avoided cultivating officials and was buying calligraphy and paintings instead. The emperor ordered every work in the Peaceful Year Pavilion bestowed on him, and Eunuch Zhao led a procession carrying 115 pieces to the Dai Marquis Residence.

• Eunuch Zhao told the emperor that the Marquis of Dai had visited civil officials only to seek calligraphy and paintings, had paid for any works he received, and had rejected a military official seeking his acquaintance.
• The emperor wondered whether the Marquis of Dai was hiding his ambitions, then ordered Eunuch Zhao to give him more calligraphy and paintings.
• The emperor commanded Eunuch Zhao to bestow all the works in the Peaceful Year Pavilion upon the Marquis of Dai.
• Eunuch Zhao gathered thirty young eunuchs, removed all 115 pieces from the pavilion, and set out with them for the Dai Marquis Residence.

Chapter Summary: “The Southern Border Has Indeed Sent Someone”

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• A large procession carrying more than a hundred calligraphy works and paintings travels toward the Marquis of Dai’s residence, attracting public attention and speculation.
• At Prince Shu’s residence, Prince Shu correctly understands the Emperor’s strategy: by rewarding Marquis of Dai with so many artworks, the Emperor has removed the marquis’s usual excuse for associating with officials under the pretext of viewing the Thousand Blessings Painting.
• Prince Shu and his advisers conclude that Marquis of Dai will now be exposed as hypocritical if he continues meeting officials. They doubt his professed devotion to filial piety and believe he has political ambitions.
• Prince Shu sends someone to observe the activity at the Dai Marquis Residence, since he is curious about Marquis of Dai’s reaction but does not wish to visit personally.
• A visitor arrives claiming to be an envoy from Ning Kingdom in the Southern Border, offering local products and a princess as a marriage alliance.
• Though Prince Shu initially considers dismissing the envoy, he decides to receive him for entertainment and invites his advisers to watch.
• The envoy, Abula, enters dressed in animal skins and speaking halting official language. Prince Shu and most of his advisers mock him and look down on Ning Kingdom as an uncivilized barbarian state.
• Abula explains that the princess and gifts are waiting outside. Prince Shu orders them brought in.
• Two warriors present baskets of genuine local products, which disappoints Prince Shu because he expected something more valuable or impressive.
• The arrival of the young princess, however, catches Prince Shu’s attention, ending the chapter on a note of curiosity.

2. Character Developments

• Prince Shu: Demonstrates political insight by recognizing the Emperor’s trap for Marquis of Dai. He is confident, amused, and dismissive, but also arrogant and deeply prejudiced toward the Southern Border. His willingness to receive Abula is motivated more by entertainment and curiosity than diplomacy.
• Marquis of Dai/Su Ziji: Does not appear directly, but his reputation and political position are central. Prince Shu and his advisers view him as ambitious and deceptive rather than genuinely filial. His ambiguous status—kept outside the imperial register because he may serve as a political tool—is emphasized.
• Abula: Appears as the envoy of Ning Kingdom. Though initially presented through the biased eyes of Prince Shu’s court as crude and barbaric, he is respectful, politically purposeful, and clear about his mission: offering tribute and proposing a marriage alliance.
• Prince Shu’s advisers: Most share his contempt and treat Abula as a source of amusement. A few recognize that mocking a foreign envoy is improper but remain silent, revealing the court’s prevailing arrogance and social pressure.

3. Significant Themes

• Political maneuvering and imperial control: The Emperor’s reward is not merely generous; it is designed to restrict Marquis of Dai’s movements and expose his intentions.
• Appearance versus reality: The supposedly “barbaric” envoy may represent a legitimate kingdom and a serious diplomatic initiative, despite his clothing and speech. Likewise, Marquis of Dai’s outward filial image may conceal political ambition.
• Class and cultural prejudice: Prince Shu and his advisers automatically equate Southern Border customs, clothing, and language with inferiority, revealing the arrogance of the Great Zheng court.
• Diplomacy as performance: The exchange of gifts, the proposed marriage, and even the envoy’s reception are shaped by ceremony, social expectations, and political calculation.
• Entertainment and cruelty among the powerful: Prince Shu treats a diplomatic encounter as a spectacle, showing how privilege allows the court to turn another state’s envoy into an object of ridicule.

4. Character Interactions

• Prince Shu and his advisers discuss the Emperor’s maneuver against Marquis of Dai, collectively interpreting his future actions as evidence of hypocrisy or ambition.
• Prince Shu orders an investigation into the events at the Dai Marquis Residence but chooses to remain at home.
• He receives Abula with outward formality but allows his advisers to mock him, encouraging the encounter as entertainment.
• Abula respectfully introduces himself, explains Ning Kingdom’s customs, and offers both tribute and a princess for marriage.
• Prince Shu questions the value of the gifts and has his servants summon the princess and her guards, while the advisers laugh at the envoy and challenge him to display Ning Kingdom’s offerings.
• The chapter concludes with Prince Shu’s contempt weakening slightly when the princess enters and captures his attention.

Chapter Summary: “Worthy of Being Called a Princess?”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Prince Shu receives a princess from the Ning Kingdom, along with local gifts intended to secure a favorable relationship.
• Instead of treating the envoy and princess respectfully, Prince Shu insults her as a “tribal woman,” dismisses the gifts as worthless, and orders his guards to remove the envoy.
• The princess is forcibly kept inside the residence despite the envoy’s demand that she be returned. The envoy and his companions are beaten, humiliated, and thrown out.
• The guards reveal their contempt for the Ning delegation, making crude comments about the princess and demonstrating the arrogance and prejudice of Prince Shu’s household.
• At the Dai Marquis Residence, Jian Qu reports that no major developments have yet occurred in the Southern Border, despite Su Ziji’s expectation that something would eventually happen.
• Su Ziji reflects on his mysterious dreams, the possibility that they contain clues about the future, and his belief that increasing his attributes may eventually unlock supernatural abilities or signal a revival of spiritual energy.
• An imperial procession arrives unexpectedly at the Dai Marquis Residence. Su Ziji and Ye Buhui formally receive an imperial decree.
• The Emperor bestows over one hundred valuable copies of the Book of Documents and paintings upon Su Ziji, publicly presenting the gift as a reward for his diligence and filial devotion.
• Zhao Eunuch subtly indicates that the gift is connected to Su Ziji’s recent actions and his ability to affect the Emperor emotionally. Su Ziji understands the hidden message and promises to make good use of the imperial favor.

Character Developments

• Prince Shu is shown to be arrogant, discriminatory, and openly contemptuous of both the Ning Kingdom and its princess. His behavior demonstrates his belief that foreign or tribal people are beneath him.
• The Ning envoy changes from hopeful diplomatic representative to an outraged and helpless victim. His realization that the princess has effectively been detained leaves him deeply disillusioned with Great Zheng.
• The Ning princess is introduced as physically striking and culturally distinct, but she has no opportunity to speak or defend herself. Her forced retention places her in a vulnerable and dangerous position.
• The guards of Prince Shu’s residence reflect the corruption and lawlessness encouraged by their master. They casually threaten violence and make vulgar remarks about the princess.
• Su Ziji continues to balance political caution with private investigation into his dreams and possible supernatural powers. He quickly recognizes the Emperor’s true motives behind the reward and responds with calculated humility.
• Ye Buhui supports Su Ziji publicly by appearing with him to receive the decree, reinforcing their united position at the residence.
• Zhao Eunuch acts as the Emperor’s discreet intermediary. His carefully chosen words warn Su Ziji that the gift is not merely generous but politically meaningful.

Significant Themes

• Arrogance and prejudice: Prince Shu’s treatment of the Ning delegation exposes Great Zheng’s contempt for outsiders and the abuse of power by its elites.
• Diplomacy and coercion: The Ning Kingdom’s attempt to secure protection through a political marriage fails, while the princess becomes a hostage rather than a respected diplomatic guest.
• Political appearances versus hidden intentions: The Emperor publicly frames the gifts as a reward for filial virtue, but Zhao Eunuch’s reminder reveals a deeper political purpose.
• Power and vulnerability: The powerless envoy and princess are mistreated, while Su Ziji gains influence through his increasingly careful handling of imperial relationships.
• Uncertainty about fate and the supernatural: Su Ziji continues questioning whether his dreams predict real events and whether his growing attributes will lead to extraordinary abilities.
• The dangers of unchecked authority: Prince Shu’s household acts with impunity, suggesting that rank and power have eroded moral restraint.

Important Character Interactions

• Prince Shu and the Ning envoy: Their encounter collapses into open insult and hostility, with Prince Shu rejecting both the envoy’s gifts and the princess’s status.
• The guards and the Ning delegation: The guards physically expel the envoy and his companions, threaten them with weapons, and mock the princess after shutting the gates.
• Su Ziji and Jian Qu: They discuss the lack of movement in the Southern Border, highlighting Su Ziji’s concern about future developments and incomplete knowledge.
• Su Ziji and Ye Buhui: They jointly receive the imperial decree, presenting a formal and harmonious front.
• Su Ziji and Zhao Eunuch: Zhao Eunuch delivers the Emperor’s gift and indirectly warns Su Ziji that the reward reflects his recent influence over the Emperor. Su Ziji understands the implication and responds diplomatically.

After the emperor rewarded Su Ziji with 115 paintings and calligraphy works, Su Ziji absorbed them all and gained major advances in his skills and cultivation. He decided to keep a low profile while waiting for Prince Qi’s faction to bring about its own downfall.

• Ye Buhui asked why the emperor had rewarded Su Ziji, and Su Ziji told her he could handle it.
• Jian Qu reported that Eunuch Zhao had delivered 115 valuable works of painting and calligraphy from the emperor.
• Su Ziji absorbed all 115 works, pushing Painting and Calligraphy to level 18 and improving his aptitude, charm, and Coiling Dragon Heart Method.
• Su Ziji considered the rise of nonhuman forces and resolved to pursue both cultivation and the throne.
• Su Ziji decided to avoid drawing attention and let Prince Qi’s followers make mistakes that would turn the emperor against them.

Chapter Summary: All-Yin Fate

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Marquis of Dai, Su Ziji, publicly announces that he has entered seclusion to study the Book of Documents and complete the Thousand Blessings Painting for the Emperor.
• His refusal to receive visitors surprises the Emperor, who had expected Su Ziji—like the other princes and nobles—to build political connections. The Emperor wonders whether he has misjudged Su Ziji’s ambitions and orders Zhao Eunuch to continue watching him.
• Su Ziji spends his secluded days painting, playing chess with Ye Buhui, and interacting with the foxes. Because his artistic abilities have improved significantly, he decides to repaint the Thousand Blessings Painting to ensure it contains no flaws.
• The Wild Daoist reports that the Duan and Prince Qi residences have made contact, allowing the Imperial City Office to notice their activities as planned.
• He also reveals that Duan Qin possesses the extremely rare All-Yin Fate, a severe imbalance of yin and yang in his Eight Characters. Investigations into Duan Qin’s ancestry uncover legends that one of his ancestors married a Monster—variously described as a fish spirit, fox spirit, or another supernatural being.
• Su Ziji believes the legend may contain some truth, since Monsters once lived openly among humans. However, despite suspecting that Duan Qin may have unusual origins, he orders the Wild Daoist to continue with the original plan to have Duan Qin killed.
• Troubled and unable to concentrate on painting, Su Ziji leaves the study. He then learns that Zhou Yao has arrived to visit Ye Buhui.
• Su Ziji and Ye Buhui go out to greet Zhou Yao. Zhou Yao—and even the mysterious voice accompanying her—are struck by Su Ziji’s newly refined and elegant appearance.

Character Developments

• Su Ziji: Demonstrates political restraint and strategic patience by withdrawing from society rather than openly pursuing influence. His dedication to the Emperor’s painting appears sincere, but his investigation of Duan Qin shows that he remains deeply involved in hidden schemes. Although he becomes intrigued by Duan Qin’s supernatural background, he does not allow curiosity or sympathy to alter his plans.
• The Emperor: Becomes uncertain about Su Ziji’s true intentions. He fears that Su Ziji may waste his political value or eventually be recruited by one of the imperial princes, so he chooses to observe rather than interfere.
• The Wild Daoist: Successfully investigates Duan Qin and uncovers significant information, but he is confused by Su Ziji’s decision to proceed with the assassination despite the possibility that Duan Qin has Monster blood or an extraordinary fate.
• Ye Buhui: Remains close to Su Ziji during his seclusion and is visibly pleased by Zhou Yao’s visit, reflecting her warm social connections with other women of the capital.
• Zhou Yao: Arrives to visit Ye Buhui and is unexpectedly affected by Su Ziji’s transformed appearance. Her mysterious inner voice, previously talkative, also falls silent upon seeing him.

Significant Themes

• Political withdrawal as strategy: Su Ziji’s seclusion appears passive, but it allows him to avoid suspicion while continuing to maneuver behind the scenes.
• Appearance versus reality: The Emperor cannot determine whether Su Ziji’s retreat is genuine devotion, political disinterest, or a calculated performance. Similarly, Duan Qin’s ordinary family history may conceal supernatural origins.
• Fate and supernatural bloodlines: The concept of All-Yin Fate and the legends of Monster ancestry introduce questions about inherited destiny, unusual powers, and the relationship between humans and supernatural beings.
• Knowledge and control: Su Ziji gathers information even when he does not yet understand its significance, demonstrating that knowledge itself is part of his method of maintaining control.
• Unfathomable intentions: Su Ziji’s actions repeatedly confuse those around him, especially the Wild Daoist, reinforcing his reputation as someone whose true plans are impossible to read.

Important Character Interactions

• The Emperor and Zhao Eunuch discuss Su Ziji’s seclusion, revealing the Emperor’s suspicion and concern.
• The Wild Daoist reports his findings about Duan Qin to Su Ziji; Su Ziji listens thoughtfully but firmly orders the original plan to continue.
• Su Ziji and Ye Buhui jointly welcome Zhou Yao, establishing the contrast between his public seclusion and the continued openness of the residence to Ye Buhui’s female acquaintances.
• Zhou Yao’s encounter with Su Ziji creates a striking impression, suggesting that her relationship with him—and the mysterious voice’s reaction to him—may become important later.

Chapter Summary: Raising a Fox for a Thousand Days

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhou Yao visits the Marquis of Dai’s residence and is struck by how dramatically Su Ziji—also known as Ji Zizong—has changed. His appearance and bearing now seem almost otherworldly, as though he were an immortal rather than an ordinary man.
• Ye Buhui warmly welcomes Zhou Yao and invites her to play chess. Zhou Yao agrees, asking for a three-stone handicap.
• Su Ziji joins them as a spectator after Ye Buhui invites him. Watching the two women play creates a peaceful domestic scene that reflects the life he has promised Ye Buhui.
• Inspired by the moment, Su Ziji writes a poem praising Ye Buhui’s intelligence, chess ability, and natural talent. He seals the work with his new sobriquet, “Everlasting Spring Hermit.”
• The chosen name is politically meaningful: it presents Su Ziji as a harmless, detached scholar while secretly expressing his understanding of how to survive—and ultimately prevail—in the struggle for succession.
• The foxes sense that another “Golden Olive” is about to appear, suggesting an ongoing supernatural or cultivation-related benefit that they have been consuming.
• Su Ziji teases Little Fox for becoming fat, then placates it with a sweater knitted by Ye Buhui. He hides silver notes and two letters in the sweater’s attached pocket.
• He assigns Little Fox a mission to contact Zeng Nianzhen, explaining that the foxes must prove their usefulness. Little Fox reluctantly accepts, negotiating to leave the next day so it can still enjoy that night’s Golden Olive.
• Meanwhile, people secretly watching the Marquis’s residence from a nearby shop mistake the disguised Little Fox for a fat cat. Their conversation reveals that they may be connected to the Imperial City Office and are monitoring the residence.

Character Developments

• Su Ziji: His transformation into a more radiant and impressive figure becomes obvious to outsiders. He demonstrates both domestic affection and strategic intelligence: he enjoys a quiet family life while carefully constructing a politically useful public identity through his sobriquet and subtle actions.
• Ye Buhui: She is shown as warm, playful, and intellectually capable. Her strong chess skills and the poem’s praise emphasize her natural talent. Her knitting also reveals her affectionate, nurturing relationship with Su Ziji and the foxes.
• Zhou Yao: Initially shocked by Su Ziji’s changed presence, she quickly regains her composure and participates naturally in the household’s relaxed atmosphere. Her chess ability and calm focus are highlighted.
• Little Fox: It is portrayed as intelligent, expressive, greedy, and somewhat spoiled. Though reluctant to undertake a distant mission because it might miss the Golden Olives, it ultimately accepts its responsibility.
• Big Fox and Little Fox: Their ability to understand and respond to Su Ziji’s plans reinforces their supernatural intelligence and their role as agents in his larger schemes.

Significant Themes

• Hidden power beneath harmless appearances: Su Ziji’s “Everlasting Spring Hermit” identity allows him to appear detached and useless while concealing political ambition and strategic purpose.
• Domestic peace versus political struggle: The chess game, poetry, warmth, and playful interaction with the foxes represent the tranquil life Su Ziji wants, even as he continues preparing for dangerous power struggles.
• Usefulness and loyalty: Su Ziji’s statement that the residence does not keep useless foxes shows that affection exists alongside expectations of service and loyalty.
• Transformation and perception: Su Ziji’s growing radiance demonstrates how personal change can be obvious to outsiders, while those close to someone may gradually take it for granted.
• Disguise and misdirection: The fox’s sweater makes it resemble a cat, while Su Ziji’s scholarly persona disguises his ambitions. Both reflect the chapter’s interest in appearances concealing deeper purposes.

Character Interactions

• Ye Buhui affectionately pulls Zhou Yao into a chess game and later invites Su Ziji to watch.
• Su Ziji admires the two women as they play and channels his affection for Ye Buhui into poetry.
• He playfully scolds Little Fox for gaining weight, then apologizes and wins its forgiveness with Ye Buhui’s handmade sweater.
• Su Ziji gives Little Fox a secret mission and negotiates with it almost like a human subordinate, showing their familiar but hierarchical relationship.
• The unseen watchers across the street remain unaware of the fox’s true identity, adding suspense and hinting at surveillance around the Marquis’s residence.

Zeng Nianzhen received a letter, money, and news from Su Ziji and A Xiu, delivered by Little Fox to Mistyear Island. After his men captured pirates near the island, he decided to attack their nearby lair and seize its supplies.

• Little Fox woke Zeng Nianzhen and delivered Su Ziji’s letter and six thousand taels of silver, along with A Xiu’s letter.
• Zeng Nianzhen told Little Fox he would use the money where it mattered most and described his plans to train troops on Mistyear Island.
• Little Fox spotted ships approaching, and Zeng Nianzhen’s recruits captured six pirates while the remaining pirates fled.
• Zeng Nianzhen learned that the pirates’ lair lay less than half an hour away and ordered his men to prepare to destroy it.

Chapter Summary: “Five Taels of Silver”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Heavy snowfall blankets the Capital City, crushing some commoners’ homes and leaving refugees vulnerable. The imperial court has not yet announced disaster relief.
• Su Ziji secretly provides aid through Wild Daoist and untraceable merchant caravans, avoiding direct involvement because private relief can be treated as a political crime in an imperial state.
• While publicly remaining secluded and working on the Thousand Blessings Painting, Su Ziji receives news from Big Fox that the Imperial City Office has discovered Prince Qi’s Residence communicating with Duan Yanxing’s faction.
• Su Ziji rewards Big Fox for its assistance and gives it a five-tael silver ingot to deliver to Duan Qin, describing the payment as compensation for Duan Qin’s life.
• Duan Qin wakes with a strong sense of unease, sneezing repeatedly and experiencing twitching eyelids. He tries to dismiss these signs as illness or anxiety over his own corruption.
• He leaves the Duan Residence to drink tea. On the way, he sees freezing beggars and refugees but shows little concern, focusing instead on his own comfort.
• Outside the teahouse, he discovers the silver ingot deliberately placed in his path. Believing it to be a lucky windfall, he takes it and interprets the disappearance of his anxiety as a favorable omen.
• Inside, he encounters Steward Chen of Prince Qi’s Residence. Despite intending to sever his involvement with Prince Qi’s schemes, Duan Qin involuntarily reveals that Duan Yanxing already knows of Prince Qi’s intentions and will obey him.
• Duan Qin realizes he may have been manipulated or placed under a supernatural influence. Before he can escape, Imperial soldiers and an eunuch block the teahouse entrance and arrest him.

Character Developments

• Su Ziji remains cautious, calculating, and politically astute. He balances compassion for disaster victims with an understanding that openly helping them could endanger him. His gift to Duan Qin reveals that he is willing to manipulate events and eliminate or compensate enemies through indirect means.
• Big Fox continues to function as Su Ziji’s intelligent messenger and agent. Its successful delivery mission demonstrates its loyalty and growing usefulness.
• Duan Qin is shown as greedy, morally compromised, and easily reassured by material gain. Although he briefly recognizes the danger of serving as a political intermediary, the silver distracts him and causes him to misread a trap as good fortune. His involuntary confession exposes his lack of control and leaves him terrified.
• Steward Chen appears outwardly ordinary but is perceived by Duan Qin as threatening and almost monstrous, suggesting that Chen may be involved in the manipulation or supernatural control surrounding the meeting.
• Su Ziji’s influence becomes evident through the way events unfold: the five-tael ingot appears to be more than payment, likely serving as part of a larger scheme to direct Duan Qin toward arrest.

Significant Themes

• Political repression and the danger of charity: In an imperial system, even helping starving civilians can be interpreted as challenging the government’s authority.
• Manipulation and fate: Duan Qin’s unease, the silver ingot, his involuntary confession, and the sudden arrest suggest that events have been carefully engineered.
• Greed and self-deception: Duan Qin uses the silver to convince himself that his fears are meaningless, showing how greed blinds him to danger.
• Power operating through intermediaries: Su Ziji acts indirectly through animals, merchants, and carefully arranged encounters, while the court uses agents such as eunuchs and soldiers.
• The contrast between appearance and reality: Snow creates a peaceful surface over social suffering and political turmoil, while Duan Qin’s seemingly fortunate discovery conceals a deadly trap.

Character Interactions

• Su Ziji and Big Fox: Su Ziji communicates with and rewards Big Fox, relying on it to deliver the silver ingot to Duan Qin.
• Duan Qin and Steward Chen: Their previously cordial relationship becomes tense. Duan Qin unintentionally exposes political information to Chen, then fears that Chen or his associates have controlled him.
• Duan Qin and the imperial forces: The soldiers and eunuch abruptly transform his attempt to leave into an arrest, ending the chapter with him protesting his innocence while being forced to his knees.

The emperor dreamed of his dead second brother and a dragon being consumed by black mist, then awoke and accidentally killed a palace official. After reading Eunuch Zhao’s report implicating Prince Qi and Duan Yanxing, he flew into a rage.

• Palace eunuchs and armored soldiers arrested Duan Qin and Steward Chen, leading teahouse patrons to suspect trouble at the Duan Residence.
• The emperor dreamed that his second brother vanished and an enormous dragon was torn apart by black vapor.
• The emperor awoke in terror and stabbed a female palace official, then ordered Eunuch Zhao to attend him.
• Eunuch Zhao presented the emperor with a document after receiving assurance that he would be forgiven for speaking.
• The emperor read that Prince Qi had become entangled with Duan Yanxing and furiously tore up the document.

Chapter Summary: “The Test of Loyalty”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Eunuch presents the Emperor with confessions from Duan Qin and Steward Chen implicating Prince Qi and General Duan Yanxing in a secret alliance.
• Although Zhao Eunuch warns that the evidence could be slander, the Emperor becomes enraged, especially at the phrase “by Prince Qi’s order.”
• The Emperor summons the Imperial City Office eunuch who supervised Duan Qin’s arrest. The eunuch explains that:
  • An informant in Prince Qi’s residence overheard Steward Chen mention Duan Yanxing.
  • Chen and Duan Qin had met repeatedly—five times within half a month.
  • Several officers and bystanders personally heard Duan Qin refer to acting on Prince Qi’s orders.
• The Emperor initially insists that he cannot believe his son and trusted general have betrayed him, but inwardly recognizes the evidence is likely genuine.
• His anger and shock cause him to become dizzy and collapse. Zhao Eunuch helps him to bed, gives him ginseng soup, burns calming incense, and recites poetry until he appears to fall asleep.
• The Emperor later asks about the approaching New Year court celebrations and orders Zhao Eunuch to bring him the Marquis of Dai’s Thousand Blessings Painting, suggesting he is planning a significant move.
• Zhao Eunuch withdraws with the palace attendants but privately reflects on the dangers of serving an unstable, sleeping Emperor.
• The chapter ends with Zhao Eunuch ordering the palace maid accidentally killed by the Emperor to receive a proper burial and compensation, while harshly warning the attendants not to neglect the Emperor.

Character Developments

• The Emperor: His fury exposes his deep sense of betrayal and growing suspicion toward Prince Qi and Duan Yanxing. Though he appears emotionally overwhelmed, his request for the painting suggests he is already considering political action.
• Zhao Eunuch: He remains outwardly obedient and composed but is privately frightened by the Emperor’s unpredictable violence. His thoughts reveal how loyalty in the imperial court is defined as unquestioning submission, even at the cost of one’s life.
• Prince Qi: He is portrayed as ambitious and treacherous, secretly coordinating with Duan Yanxing despite the Emperor’s distrust of him.
• Duan Yanxing: His alleged betrayal shocks the Emperor more deeply than Prince Qi’s involvement because he was a trusted military commander and subject.
• The Imperial City Office eunuch: Terrified of being blamed, he gives a detailed and honest account, emphasizing the number of witnesses and the reliability of the evidence.
• Palace attendants: They become increasingly fearful after witnessing the maid’s death and Zhao Eunuch’s warning.

Significant Themes

• Loyalty versus survival: The court’s idea of loyalty demands absolute obedience, even when obedience may lead to death.
• Political betrayal and mistrust: The Emperor’s fear of conspiracies is confirmed by the apparent alliance between his son and a powerful general.
• Imperial power and paranoia: The Emperor can accuse, punish, or kill based on suspicion, while those around him must carefully manage his emotions.
• The danger of authority: Zhao Eunuch’s reflections show that serving the Emperor is hazardous because even innocent actions—such as resisting arrest or defending oneself—can be interpreted as disloyalty.
• Appearance versus inner reality: The Emperor claims disbelief, Zhao Eunuch appears calm, and the court remains silent, but everyone privately understands the seriousness of the situation.
• Mortality and political calculation: The Emperor’s collapse and weakness contrast with his continued efforts to plan and control political events.

Character Interactions

• Emperor and Zhao Eunuch: Zhao Eunuch balances reassurance, practical care, and strict obedience while concealing his fear of the Emperor.
• Emperor and the Imperial City Office eunuch: The Emperor interrogates him aggressively, forcing him to provide a complete account and confirm the evidence.
• Emperor and the absent Prince Qi/Duan Yanxing: Though they do not appear, both are central to the Emperor’s emotional crisis; their alleged conspiracy transforms his anger into a profound sense of betrayal.
• Zhao Eunuch and the palace attendants: He gives them both compassionate instructions regarding the dead maid and severe threats to ensure they continue serving the Emperor flawlessly.

Prince Qi learned that the Imperial City Office had arrested his overseer Chen Zhong and Duan Residence steward Duan Qin, while Duan Yanxing spent a sleepless night fearing the emperor’s reaction. As the New Year’s Tribute gathering began, Duan Yanxing took comfort in being allowed to patrol the Imperial City, but then spotted the Marquis of Dai approaching.

• Prince Qi asked whether his New Year’s Tribute gifts were ready before Sun Bolan and the advisers told him that Chen Zhong had been seized by the Imperial City Office.
• An adviser reported that Duan Qin had also been taken away, and Sun Bolan reassured Prince Qi that the servants’ limited contact with Lord Duan did not implicate him.
• Duan Yanxing, having learned of Duan Qin’s arrest the night before, dressed for the New Year’s Tribute and inspected the Imperial City to gauge whether the emperor still trusted him.
• Duan Yanxing greeted the arriving officials and concluded that the emperor had not yet treated him as a suspected accomplice.
• Duan Yanxing noticed the Marquis of Dai approaching and was sharply startled.

Chapter Summary: “Thousand Blessings Painting”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Duan Yanxing escorts Su Ziji, the Marquis of Dai, into the imperial hall for the New Year’s Tribute ceremony.
• Su Ziji’s dignified appearance and royal bearing impress the officials, many of whom privately compare him favorably to the imperial princes.
• The Emperor enters and grants seats to Prince Qi, Prince Shu, Prince Lu, and Su Ziji, signaling that the Marquis of Dai enjoys unusual favor and status.
• The Emperor reflects publicly on the achievements of the Founding Emperor and his own eighteen years of governance, though he becomes disappointed when his sons show little emotional response.
• The ceremony proceeds with official rewards, followed by the presentation of tribute from nobles and members of the imperial clan.
• The princes offer lavish treasures, including an exquisite jade screen and a pearl robe. Prince Qi is reassured when the Emperor approves his gifts.
• Su Ziji presents two bright pearls, two coral ornaments, and a Thousand Blessings Painting. Prince Qi privately judges these offerings as inadequate, especially compared with the princes’ extravagant tributes.
• The Emperor requests to see the painting himself. Once it is unfolded, he praises it sincerely and enthusiastically.
• The painting contains one thousand different characters for “blessing,” arranged into a sophisticated landscape. Its artistic skill and painstaking execution impress the Emperor and senior officials.
• A minister compares Su Ziji’s work to that of the renowned painter Wang Ke and declares it a timeless masterpiece, praising the Marquis’s filial devotion as well as his talent.
• Prince Qi’s expression changes at this acclaim, suggesting jealousy or concern over Su Ziji’s growing prestige.
• Before the banquet begins, the Emperor announces that he has two matters—one joyful and one troubling—to settle before the New Year.

Character Developments

• Su Ziji: Makes a powerful first impression through his regal bearing and composure. His painting reveals exceptional artistic ability, intelligence, patience, and filial devotion, elevating him further in the Emperor’s eyes.
• The Emperor: Appears healthy despite his recent serious illness, likely because of the Lesser Restoration Elixir. He demonstrates particular interest in Su Ziji and openly values the painting, while also showing disappointment in his sons’ lack of responsiveness.
• Prince Qi: Initially feels secure after receiving the Emperor’s approval for his tribute, but becomes unsettled when Su Ziji’s seemingly modest gift receives far greater admiration. His inward mockery turns into visible unease.
• Duan Yanxing: Acts as Su Ziji’s guide and host within the unfamiliar court setting, helping him take his proper place.
• Zhao Eunuch: Shows his close understanding of the Emperor and personally handles the presentation of the painting.

Significant Themes

• Appearance versus true worth: The princes’ lavish gifts create an impressive display, but Su Ziji’s modest tribute proves more valuable because of its originality and personal effort.
• Filial devotion: The Thousand Blessings Painting symbolizes sincere devotion rather than empty ceremonial extravagance.
• Court hierarchy and imperial favor: Su Ziji’s honored seat and the Emperor’s attention reveal his rising importance within the imperial family.
• Political competition and jealousy: The princes’ gifts are partly displays of status, and Prince Qi reacts uneasily when Su Ziji outshines him.
• Art as power and reputation: Su Ziji’s artistic achievement earns him praise comparable to that granted to historically famous painters, strengthening his public standing.
• The Emperor’s authority: The ceremony emphasizes the Emperor’s ability to determine honor, rank, and political fortune with a word.

Character Interactions

• Duan Yanxing respectfully guides Su Ziji into the hall and places him beneath the princes.
• The Emperor publicly grants Su Ziji a seat alongside the princes, signaling special recognition.
• Prince Qi observes Su Ziji closely, first belittling his gifts and later reacting negatively to the acclaim surrounding the painting.
• The Emperor personally asks to inspect Su Ziji’s work and praises it before the court.
• Senior officials reinforce the Emperor’s judgment by openly declaring the painting a masterpiece, further enhancing Su Ziji’s reputation.
• The chapter ends with the Emperor preparing to reveal two important matters, creating anticipation for the political and personal consequences to follow.

At the New Year's Tribute, the emperor had Duan Yanxing arrested and ordered for his execution, then elevated Su Ziji from Marquis of Dai to Duke of Dai. The banquet began with Prince Qi concealing his anger and agreeing to the promotion when the emperor directly questioned him.

• The emperor ordered Eunuch Zhao to read a decree stripping Duan Yanxing of his office and sending him to the Heavenly Prison, and guards dragged him away as he protested his innocence.
• The emperor decided Duan Yanxing would be put to death after interrogation, while Prince Qi realized the arrest threatened his standing with his father.
• Eunuch Zhao read a decree elevating Ji Zizong, Marquis of Dai, to Duke of Dai and increasing his revenue fief by two thousand households.
• The princes resented the rapid promotion, and Prince Qi swallowed his objections when the emperor asked what he thought of it.
• The emperor ordered the banquet served, and the officials took their places as music and bells sounded.

At the imperial banquet, Su Ziji considered how to oppose the princes while protecting his reputation and advancing the nation’s interests. The emperor praised his poem and ordered him to join the court and attend to state affairs, leaving him committed to entering the political arena.

• The ministers recited poems praising the emperor at the banquet, while Su Ziji judged the feast and watched Princes Qi, Shu, and Lu.
• Su Ziji reasoned that the emperor wanted him to counter the princes and resolved to oppose actions that harmed the state openly and honorably.
• The emperor asked Su Ziji to recite a poem, and Su Ziji improvised verses about the imperial court.
• The emperor praised Su Ziji’s poem and his Thousand Blessings Painting, then ordered him to join the ranks at court and focus on state affairs.
• Su Ziji noticed the princes’ displeasure and accepted the emperor’s decree.

Cui Zhaoqian sensed heightened security at the palace as unrest threatened Great Zheng’s southern border. At the Grand Secretariat, he sincerely greeted Su Ziji, understanding at last why Eunuch Zhao had protected him.

• After the palace banquet, Cui Zhaoqian noticed more guards and heard officials discuss renewed border tensions.
• A starving tribal chief rallied his people to attack Peaceguard City and seize its grain.
• Su Ziji arrived at the Grand Secretariat, drawing the attention of palace maids and eunuchs.
• Cui Zhaoqian recognized Su Ziji, bowed to him, and offered a sincere greeting tinged with apology.