Chapter Summaries

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhu Zhuqing flees through the Star Luo Empire’s wilderness while being pursued by forces led by her elder sister, Zhu Zhuyun.
• Her escape route is blocked by a ravine created by Zhu Zhuyun’s blade attack. Zhu Zhuqing is surrounded by Zhu Zhuyun, two Soul Ancestors, three Soul Elders, and additional pursuers.
• Zhu Zhuyun offers to spare Zhu Zhuqing if she cripples her own martial soul, claiming it is the only way she can give her sister a chance to survive Star Luo’s brutal imperial rules.
• Refusing to surrender, Zhu Zhuqing attempts to break through using Hell Stab. She is overwhelmed and believes she is about to die.
• Fang Fan suddenly arrives, summoning a massive Seven-Colored Light Sword. Countless light swords erupt from the ground, killing every pursuer except Zhu Zhuyun.
• Fang Fan rescues Zhu Zhuqing and warns that Dai Weisi will soon send more pursuers. He then takes her across the border and brings her near Suotuo City.
• Acting drunk and carefree, Fang Fan has Zhu Zhuqing feed him wine while resting against her. The system rewards him with Drunkenness Value for drinking wine fed by her.

Character Developments

• Zhu Zhuqing: Demonstrates determination and defiance, refusing to cripple her martial soul or accept an imposed fate. Though wounded and nearly defeated, she continues fighting until Fang Fan intervenes. Afterward, she becomes grateful and increasingly curious about him, especially after sensing a powerful resonance between his martial soul and her Hell Spirit Cat.
• Zhu Zhuyun: Reveals a complicated mixture of cruelty, superiority, and genuine concern for her younger sister. Her offer to spare Zhu Zhuqing suggests she does not truly want her dead, but she remains an agent of the harsh imperial succession system. Fang Fan’s effortless defeat of her allies leaves her shocked and humiliated.
• Fang Fan: Is introduced as an immensely powerful, carefree young Soul King with a Seven-Colored Light Sword martial soul. His drunken, mischievous behavior contrasts sharply with his overwhelming combat ability. He rescues Zhu Zhuqing casually, teases Zhu Zhuyun, and begins forming an intimate, familiar bond with Zhu Zhuqing.
• Dai Mubai: Though absent, he is criticized by Zhu Zhuqing for abandoning her, reinforcing her resentment and sense of betrayal.
• Dai Weisi: His impending pursuit establishes that Zhu Zhuqing remains in danger even after escaping her immediate attackers.

Significant Themes

• Defiance against fate: Zhu Zhuqing insists that her destiny belongs to her rather than to Heaven, her family, or Star Luo’s imperial rules.
• Family loyalty versus political survival: Zhu Zhuyun’s attempt to spare Zhu Zhuqing reflects the conflict between sisterly affection and the merciless succession system.
• Power and rescue: Fang Fan’s overwhelming strength changes Zhu Zhuqing’s desperate situation instantly and introduces him as a powerful new force.
• Freedom and escape: Crossing into another nation symbolizes Zhu Zhuqing’s break from Star Luo’s control and her pursuit of a new life.
• Romantic and martial-soul resonance: Zhu Zhuqing senses an unusually strong compatibility between her Hell Spirit Cat and Fang Fan’s Seven-Colored Light Sword, hinting at a possible future martial soul fusion and romantic connection.
• The Drunken Sword Immortal system: Fang Fan’s power progression is tied to wine shared with designated beauties, blending cultivation, comedy, and the developing harem-romance premise.

Character Interactions

• Zhu Zhuyun taunts Zhu Zhuqing and offers her a conditional escape, while Zhu Zhuqing rejects her proposal and attacks.
• Fang Fan saves Zhu Zhuqing, tells her that Zhu Zhuyun is hers to punish, and playfully suggests spanking her sister.
• Instead of Zhu Zhuqing doing so, Fang Fan humorously slaps Zhu Zhuyun himself, leaving her shocked and embarrassed.
• Fang Fan takes Zhu Zhuqing’s hand and leads her across the border. She willingly remains beside him and supports him while he drinks.
• Their physical closeness and easy interaction suggest the beginning of mutual trust and possible romantic interest.

Chapter Summary

• After Fang Fan saves Zhu Zhuqing in the wasteland by killing seven pursuers with a single Seven-Colored Light Sword strike, he becomes heavily intoxicated from the wine she feeds him. Zhu Zhuqing supports and half-carries him into Suotuo City.
• As they walk through the city, bystanders admire Zhu Zhuqing’s beauty and joke about Fang Fan’s good fortune. Embarrassed by their comments—and by Fang Fan’s repeated demands for wine—she hurries toward the Rose Hotel while continuing to feed him.
• Zhu Zhuqing gradually becomes comfortable caring for Fang Fan. Although his weight, drool, and drunkenness exhaust her, she finds his scent calming and feels safe beside him because of his strength and handsome appearance. Her gratitude for saving her also begins to mix with curiosity and a subtle emotional attraction.
• At the wasteland, Dai Weisi arrives too late with a Soul Emperor and two Soul Kings. He finds the seven dead pursuers and recognizes that Fang Fan’s swordsmanship was precise, powerful, and deliberately cruel. Zhu Zhuyun is furious and humiliated after Fang Fan slapped her twice during the earlier confrontation.
• Despite her anger, Zhu Zhuyun cannot forget Fang Fan’s overwhelming strength, appearance, and mysterious presence. Her Nether Civet Martial Soul resonated with his Seven-Colored Light Sword, causing an unusual reaction in her bloodline and making her wonder whether the two Martial Souls might be capable of fusion.
• Zhu Zhuyun is disappointed in Dai Weisi for arriving late and failing to protect her. She compares him unfavorably with Fang Fan, whom she suspects may be a remarkably powerful Soul King despite his young age. Her admiration for Fang Fan complicates her anger and leaves her unsettled.
• At the Rose Hotel, Zhu Zhuqing notices that her injuries have healed far faster than expected. She realizes that Fang Fan may have been unconsciously transferring Soul Power to heal her, revealing another of his abilities and increasing her curiosity about him.
• Fang Fan briefly awakens and receives system rewards—dark attribute and affinity points—merely from lying against Zhu Zhuqing. He then continues pretending to be drunk while absorbing the alcohol and cultivating his Soul Power, suggesting that his drunken behavior may be partly intentional.
• The hotel claims that only one room remains. Unable to leave Fang Fan unattended, Zhu Zhuqing reluctantly books the room for both of them. At that moment, Dai Mubai arrives and arrogantly declares that the last room was reserved for him, creating the chapter’s cliffhanger confrontation.

Main Themes

• Hidden strength and deception: Fang Fan’s drunken appearance conceals extraordinary combat power, healing abilities, and deliberate cultivation.
• Attraction and emotional confusion: Both Zhu Zhuqing and Zhu Zhuyun develop complicated reactions to Fang Fan, mixing gratitude, admiration, embarrassment, anger, and curiosity.
• Power and comparison: Fang Fan’s overwhelming ability exposes Dai Weisi’s weakness and threatens the existing hierarchy.
• Fate and Martial Soul resonance: The unusual connection between Zhu Zhuyun’s Nether Civet and Fang Fan’s Seven-Colored Light Sword hints at a potentially important future bond.
• Romantic tension and rivalry: Zhu Zhuqing’s intimate care of Fang Fan, the shared hotel room, and Dai Mubai’s sudden arrival set up a confrontation involving jealousy, misunderstanding, and competing claims.

Chapter Summary: “A Quarrel with Dai Mubai... Xiao Wu the Troublemaker”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhu Zhuqing hears Dai Mubai’s voice in the hotel and immediately recognizes him as the fiancé who abandoned her in Star Luo Palace, leaving her vulnerable to an assassination attempt.
• Dai Mubai enters with twin women from a brothel. He is shocked to encounter Zhu Zhuqing, especially because she is carrying Fang Fan in an intimate manner.
• Zhu Zhuqing confronts Dai Mubai and decisively announces that she wants to break off their engagement.
• Tang San and Xiao Wu arrive after hearing the commotion. Xiao Wu eagerly treats the confrontation as entertainment and quickly forms her own interpretation of events.
• Dai Mubai attempts to manipulate the situation by falsely claiming that Fang Fan attacked Zhu Zhuqing while drunk and deceived her. He presents himself as a remorseful fiancé who wants to repair their relationship.
• Xiao Wu initially believes Dai Mubai’s performance and urges Zhu Zhuqing to return to him, while Tang San also supports giving Dai Mubai another chance.
• Zhu Zhuqing rejects them both, insisting that regardless of her feelings toward Dai Mubai, she will never abandon Fang Fan, the person who saved her.
• Xiao Wu becomes upset at being rebuked, while Tang San continues to frame Fang Fan as a dangerous drunkard and offers to help him stop drinking.
• Fang Fan, though appearing unconscious, has heard the conversation and recognizes Dai Mubai’s lies and Xiao Wu’s misplaced sense of justice. He decides to expose the truth and end the “performance.”

Character Developments

• Zhu Zhuqing: Her resentment toward Dai Mubai is reaffirmed, but she also demonstrates strong loyalty and gratitude toward Fang Fan. She becomes more assertive by openly rejecting her arranged engagement and defending the person who protected her.
• Dai Mubai: He is exposed as cowardly, hypocritical, and manipulative. Despite being caught with prostitutes, he immediately invents a convincing story portraying himself as the repentant victim and Fang Fan as the abuser.
• Fang Fan: Though incapacitated by alcohol on the surface, he remains perceptive through his Soul Power and mentally analyzes everyone’s behavior. His patience ends when he realizes that Dai Mubai’s deception is influencing others.
• Xiao Wu: Her curiosity and impulsiveness lead her to interfere without understanding the situation. She is easily swayed by Dai Mubai’s emotional speech, revealing her naïveté despite her good intentions.
• Tang San: He appears cautious and composed, but his judgment is based on incomplete information. His attempt to mediate unintentionally supports Dai Mubai’s false narrative.
• Tang San and Xiao Wu: Their relationship is shown through Xiao Wu’s enthusiasm and Tang San’s more restrained, protective attitude. He tries to remove her from the conflict, but she insists on watching and participating.

Significant Themes

• Appearance versus reality: Dai Mubai’s polished apology and emotional claims conceal his selfishness and dishonesty, while Fang Fan’s drunken appearance hides his awareness and strength.
• Loyalty and gratitude: Zhu Zhuqing values Fang Fan’s actions over her formal engagement, choosing the person who actually saved her rather than the man who abandoned her.
• Manipulation and public perception: Dai Mubai exploits the crowd’s limited knowledge, using a convincing performance to shift blame onto Fang Fan.
• Misguided intervention: Xiao Wu and Tang San want to help Zhu Zhuqing, but their lack of context causes them to support the wrong person.
• Broken obligations: The arranged engagement between Zhu Zhuqing and Dai Mubai is presented as a political or familial bond rather than a relationship built on trust, making Zhu Zhuqing’s rejection a form of personal independence.

Important Character Interactions

• Zhu Zhuqing and Dai Mubai: Their confrontation centers on his abandonment and her refusal to continue the engagement. Dai Mubai pleads for reconciliation, but Zhu Zhuqing rejects him.
• Dai Mubai and Fang Fan: Dai Mubai views Fang Fan as a rival and scapegoat, falsely accusing him of abusing Zhu Zhuqing.
• Zhu Zhuqing and Fang Fan: Her protective and intimate support of Fang Fan demonstrates their growing bond and her trust in him.
• Xiao Wu and Zhu Zhuqing: Xiao Wu tries to “rescue” Zhu Zhuqing from what she believes is an abusive relationship, but Zhu Zhuqing angrily rejects her interference.
• Tang San and Zhu Zhuqing: Tang San offers seemingly reasonable advice based on his assumptions, but his intervention reinforces the false accusation against Fang Fan.
• Fang Fan and the newcomers: Fang Fan silently observes Tang San and Xiao Wu, recognizing them as significant figures while preparing to reveal the truth behind Dai Mubai’s performance.

Chapter Summary: “White Tiger Like a Dog”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Dai Mubai confronts Zhu Zhuqing and demands that she leave with him, treating her as his fiancée and as property of the Dai Family.
• Zhu Zhuqing refuses, openly condemning him as selfish, cowardly, and irresponsible. She explains that Fang Fan saved her from pursuers and is her lifesaving benefactor.
• Dai Mubai becomes enraged because Zhu Zhuqing is exposing his disgrace in front of others. He attacks her with his White Tiger claws, intending to forcibly take her away and discipline or imprison her.
• Fang Fan intervenes without appearing to wake. A seven-colored sword of light shoots from his fingertip, narrowly missing Dai Mubai’s face, cutting his hand, and piercing the wall behind him.
• Dai Mubai realizes the attack came from Fang Fan and suspects that the seemingly drunk young man possesses strength far beyond his own, despite showing no visible Soul Power fluctuations.
• Choosing to test Fang Fan’s power, Dai Mubai activates his White Tiger Wuhun and attacks again with three soul rings—two yellow and one purple.
• Fang Fan lazily responds with another seven-colored sword strike, astonishing Xiao Wu and Tang San with its speed and power. The chapter ends as Dai Mubai urgently activates White Tiger Body Barrier to defend himself.

Character Developments

• Zhu Zhuqing displays growing independence and defiance. She rejects the idea that she belongs to Dai Mubai or the imperial family, despite being bound to him through their arranged engagement.
• Dai Mubai is revealed as possessive, arrogant, and deeply concerned with imperial reputation. His supposed concern for Zhu Zhuqing is exposed as a desire to control her rather than protect her.
• Fang Fan continues to appear drunk and passive, but his effortless attacks demonstrate overwhelming and mysterious power. His ability to strike without detectable Soul Power makes him increasingly intimidating.
• Tang San becomes more alert to Fang Fan’s true strength. Even with his Purple Demon Eyes fully activated, he can barely perceive Fang Fan’s sword light.
• Xiao Wu openly criticizes Dai Mubai and tries to defend Zhu Zhuqing, though Tang San stops her from interfering directly.

Significant Themes

• Possession versus personal freedom: Dai Mubai views Zhu Zhuqing as a family asset and marital obligation, while Zhu Zhuqing asserts her right to choose whom she trusts and follows.
• Abuse of power and social hierarchy: The Dai Family’s treatment of the Zhu Family is portrayed as exploitative, reducing its women to tools for producing heirs.
• Courage and responsibility: Zhu Zhuqing condemns Dai Mubai for abandoning her and refusing to face danger, contrasting his cowardice with Fang Fan’s actions in saving her.
• Hidden strength: Fang Fan’s apparent drunkenness conceals extraordinary abilities, emphasizing the danger of judging people by appearances.
• Imperial honor versus truth: Dai Mubai attacks Zhu Zhuqing partly to prevent her from revealing his failures and damaging the dignity of the imperial family.

Character Interactions

• Dai Mubai and Zhu Zhuqing: Their confrontation exposes the bitter collapse of their relationship. Dai Mubai speaks as though he owns her, while Zhu Zhuqing responds with contempt and openly rejects his authority.
• Zhu Zhuqing and Fang Fan: Zhu Zhuqing views Fang Fan with gratitude and trust because he rescued her. She instinctively recognizes his intervention even while he appears asleep.
• Xiao Wu and Dai Mubai: Xiao Wu mocks Dai Mubai for being attached to someone who mistreated him and objects when he attempts to strike Zhu Zhuqing.
• Tang San and Xiao Wu: Tang San restrains Xiao Wu from intervening, apparently trusting that the situation will be handled and recognizing the danger involved.
• Fang Fan and Dai Mubai: Their conflict is initially one-sided. Fang Fan remains relaxed and nearly unconscious-seeming, while Dai Mubai grows increasingly alarmed as he realizes he may be facing an opponent far stronger than himself.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Fan effortlessly defeats Dai Mubai’s attacks without opening his eyes, releasing Soul Rings, or appearing fully conscious. His Seven-Colored Light Sword pierces through Dai Mubai’s defensive techniques and severely wounds his arm.
• Tang San and Xiao Wu realize that Fang Fan is far stronger and more unpredictable than they initially thought. They withdraw rather than risk provoking him further.
• While drunk, Fang Fan recites grandiose poetry about drinking, swordsmanship, freedom, and becoming a “Wine Sword Immortal.” Zhu Zhuqing feeds him several mouthfuls of wine, increasing his Drunkenness Value.
• Zhu Zhuqing carries Fang Fan to their room, where both collapse from exhaustion. After resting, she takes a shower to clean the scars and injuries covering her body.
• Fang Fan, apparently sleepwalking or acting unconsciously, enters the bathroom to use the urinal without noticing Zhu Zhuqing. She is startled and embarrassed but manages to lock the door after he leaves.
• Later, Fang Fan asks for wine in his sleep. Zhu Zhuqing feeds him another mouthful, causing his Drunkenness Value to reach 890 and surpass the 888-point lottery threshold.
• Fang Fan draws a reward: his first Soul Ring’s age increases by 8,888 years. His original Soul Ring, slightly over 400 years old, becomes a deep-purple Soul Ring approaching the ten-thousand-year level.

Character Developments

• Fang Fan: His overwhelming strength is demonstrated, as he defeats a Soul Elder with a casual, unconscious sword strike. His drunken behavior remains bizarre but powerful. He also becomes excited by the lottery reward and begins considering the benefits of continuing to accumulate Drunkenness Value.
• Dai Mubai: He suffers a humiliating defeat and serious arm injury. His confidence and status are sharply undermined after all three of his defensive and offensive techniques fail.
• Tang San: He becomes cautious and recognizes that Fang Fan is far beyond an ordinary peer. He concludes that even his hidden weapons might be necessary to challenge him.
• Xiao Wu: She is shocked and confused by Fang Fan’s strength and strange drunken poetry.
• Zhu Zhuqing: She continues caring for Fang Fan despite exhaustion, feeding him wine and helping him to bed. She becomes embarrassed by the bathroom incident but also appears increasingly familiar and comfortable with his unusual behavior.

Significant Themes

• Overwhelming hidden power: Fang Fan’s relaxed, unconscious victory emphasizes the gap between apparent behavior and true ability.
• Humiliation and reversal of status: Dai Mubai, initially aggressive and confident, is reduced to crawling away after being defeated.
• Drunken freedom and individuality: Fang Fan’s poetry presents drinking and swordsmanship as symbols of uninhibited self-expression and refusal to follow conventional rules.
• Trust and intimacy: Zhu Zhuqing’s willingness to support and care for Fang Fan contrasts with the danger and violence surrounding them.
• Fortune and progression: The lottery system rewards Fang Fan’s accumulation of Drunkenness Value, strengthening his future potential.

Character Interactions

• Fang Fan and Dai Mubai clash directly, with Fang Fan overwhelming him through a single sword technique.
• Tang San and Xiao Wu observe Fang Fan’s power and retreat together, discussing the danger he represents.
• Zhu Zhuqing supports Fang Fan physically, feeds him wine repeatedly, and helps him reach their room.
• Fang Fan’s accidental entrance into the bathroom causes Zhu Zhuqing embarrassment, though he remains completely unaware of her presence.
• After the lottery reward appears, Zhu Zhuqing watches Fang Fan’s unusual excitement and wonders whether he is having a pleasant dream.

Chapter Summary

• Tang Hao observes Fang Fan: Remaining hidden after Tang San and Xiao Wu leave, Tang Hao recalls Fang Fan’s effortless defeat of Dai Mubai with two finger-generated Seven-Colored Light Sword strikes. He recognizes Fang Fan as a once-in-a-millennium talent, possibly stronger than Tang Hao himself was at the same age. Although impressed, Tang Hao warns himself that Fang Fan must not become an enemy of Tang San; genius or not, he would kill Fang Fan if he threatened his son. Tang Hao then disappears into the night, continuing to drown his guilt over Ah Yin’s sacrifice in alcohol.
• Fang Fan’s cultivation advances: Fang Fan’s first Soul Ring surpasses nine thousand years, changing from light purple to deep purple-black, while his Soul Power rises from Level 53 to Level 54. His unique drunken cultivation method continues to strengthen his Heaven-Slaying Sword Intent. After Zhu Zhuqing feeds him wine, the intent increases from 10% to 15%, suggesting that her pure, extremely yin dark-attribute aura may resonate with his sword power. After sleeping, it rises further to 23%. Fang Fan realizes Zhu Zhuqing greatly accelerates his cultivation and may help him complete the Sword Intent within months.
• Zhu Zhuqing cares for Fang Fan: Concerned that Fang Fan’s constant drinking might harm him, Zhu Zhuqing checks his pulse while he sleeps. She discovers that his body is unusually stable and vital despite his apparent drunkenness. Because the room contains only one bed, she reluctantly sleeps beside him.
• Morning intimacy and embarrassment: During the night, Zhu Zhuqing unconsciously embraces Fang Fan, while he also holds her, leaving them tangled together. She wakes believing she is hugging a large cat plushie, only to realize she is clinging to Fang Fan. Mortified, she pulls away and nearly falls off the bed. Fang Fan teases her about enjoying the embrace, then makes a suggestive remark that causes her to hide beneath the blanket.
• Their relationship deepens: Fang Fan tells Zhu Zhuqing they will travel to Shrek Academy together and asks her to continue feeding him wine. When she asks how long, he casually answers, “A lifetime,” subtly expressing his desire to remain with her. Zhu Zhuqing agrees instinctively, though she covers her embarrassment with a threat to drink him to death. She then tries his powerful wine and immediately struggles with its harsh, burning taste.

Key Themes

• Guilt versus transcendence: Tang Hao uses alcohol to suppress remorse, whereas Fang Fan uses it as a path to cultivation and enlightenment.
• Extraordinary talent and danger: Fang Fan’s overwhelming strength earns Tang Hao’s admiration but also places him under scrutiny as a possible threat to Tang San.
• Growing affection: Zhu Zhuqing and Fang Fan’s shared sleeping arrangement, playful teasing, and promise to travel together show their increasing emotional and physical closeness.
• Wine as a bond and power source: Alcohol functions both as Tang Hao’s escape from guilt and as the foundation of Fang Fan’s cultivation, while Zhu Zhuqing’s role in feeding him wine strengthens both his abilities and their relationship.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Fan teases Zhu Zhuqing after she drinks from his flask, embarrassing her by implying they have indirectly kissed.
• The pair travel to Shrek Academy, expecting an impressive institution but finding a shabby village with a crude sign and a long admission line.
• Zhu Zhuqing recognizes Tang San, Xiao Wu, a mysterious noble-looking girl, and Dai Mubai among the applicants.
• Dai Mubai immediately notices Zhu Zhuqing supporting Fang Fan. He remains furious over Fang Fan’s defeat of him the previous day and secretly plans to use Zhao Wuji to take revenge.
• Several applicants leave after judging the academy’s appearance. When one parent insults Shrek and demands a refund, Dai Mubai displays his three Soul Rings and level-thirty-seven strength, frightening them away.
• Tang San and Xiao Wu pass the entrance test with level-twenty-nine Soul Power. Their attention is drawn to Fang Fan’s exaggerated drunken behavior and his intimate dependence on Zhu Zhuqing.
• Fang Fan deliberately performs a drunken sword dance while reciting boastful poetry, enjoying the envy and jealousy of the surrounding boys.
• A noble girl with level-twenty-six Soul Power passes the test, and Li Yusong reacts with unusual seriousness after seeing her Martial Soul.
• Zhu Zhuqing temporarily leaves Fang Fan leaning against a tree while she takes the test. She is astonished to discover that her Soul Power has risen from level twenty-seven to level twenty-eight overnight.

Character Developments

• Fang Fan: Continues pretending to be drunk while intentionally provoking others and flaunting his closeness with Zhu Zhuqing. He enjoys the attention and jealousy his behavior creates, while hinting at a mysterious power or influence over her cultivation.
• Zhu Zhuqing: Becomes increasingly accustomed to caring for Fang Fan, naturally feeding him wine and supporting him despite her embarrassment. She begins seriously investigating the benefits of staying close to him after noticing her rapid healing and unexpected breakthrough.
• Dai Mubai: Remains humiliated and resentful after losing to Fang Fan. Unable to defeat him personally, he decides to rely on Zhao Wuji and Shrek’s authority to retaliate.
• Tang San and Xiao Wu: Successfully enter Shrek and observe Fang Fan and Zhu Zhuqing with curiosity. Tang San remains cautious but trusts Yu Xiaogang’s recommendation of the academy.
• Li Yusong: Is impressed by the unusually talented applicants, particularly Tang San, Xiao Wu, Zhu Zhuqing, and the mysterious noble girl.

Significant Themes

• Appearances versus reality: Shrek’s dilapidated appearance contrasts with the exceptional talents of its students and teachers.
• Hidden power and mystery: Fang Fan’s unusual aura appears to accelerate Zhu Zhuqing’s healing and cultivation, suggesting that his abilities are far greater than he reveals.
• Jealousy and possessiveness: Fang Fan’s intimacy with Zhu Zhuqing provokes envy from the surrounding boys and intense anger from Dai Mubai.
• Growing intimacy: Zhu Zhuqing’s embarrassment gradually gives way to comfort and curiosity as she becomes physically and emotionally accustomed to caring for Fang Fan.
• Talent and selection: The entrance examination establishes that Shrek seeks rare “monsters”—students whose abilities far exceed ordinary standards.

Character Interactions

• Fang Fan repeatedly teases Zhu Zhuqing, while she responds with embarrassment and reluctant patience.
• Zhu Zhuqing supports, feeds, and protects Fang Fan throughout the registration process, demonstrating their increasingly natural partnership.
• Dai Mubai watches them with suppressed fury, creating an unresolved conflict between himself and Fang Fan.
• Tang San and Xiao Wu observe Fang Fan and Zhu Zhuqing’s strange, intimate behavior, recognizing them as unusual figures within the applicant group.
• The chapter ends with Zhu Zhuqing connecting her sudden cultivation breakthrough to sleeping in Fang Fan’s arms, leading her to view him with renewed interest and a faint, genuine smile.

Chapter Summary: “Dai Mubai’s Sinister Tactics: Five Against Zhao Wuji”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Yusong declares Zhu Zhuqing’s successful admission to Shrek Academy after she passes the earlier entrance test.
• Zhu Zhuqing supports the heavily intoxicated Fang Fan, feeding him wine and allowing him to lean against her shoulder. Fang Fan’s drunkenness appears to convert the alcohol into Soul Power.
• Fang Fan’s mysterious strength remains a major subject of curiosity. Dai Mubai, Tang San, Xiao Wu, and Ning Rongrong still do not know his Soul Power level, martial-soul details, or full combat abilities, despite having seen him defeat Dai Mubai with only two sword strikes.
• When Li Yusong insists that Fang Fan must also take the entrance test, Zhu Zhuqing declares that she will not enter Shrek unless Fang Fan is allowed in as well.
• Worried that the pair might leave, Dai Mubai secretly persuades Li Yusong to admit them and guides them toward the fourth test, clearly intending for Zhao Wuji to punish Fang Fan.
• The group reaches Zhao Wuji, a level-72 assault-type Battle Soul Sage with the Great Vajra Bear martial soul, known as the Immovable Bright King.
• Zhao Wuji announces that all five applicants must fight him together and survive until one stick of incense burns out. Failure means they must leave Shrek.
• Tang San attempts to organize the group by asking everyone to reveal their martial souls and combat roles:
  • Tang San: Blue Silver Grass, control type
  • Xiao Wu: Soft Bone Rabbit, close-combat type
  • Ning Rongrong: Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Pagoda, support type
  • Zhu Zhuqing: Hell Spirit Cat, agility-attack type
  • Fang Fan: Seven-Colored Light Sword, assault type
• When Tang San asks Fang Fan’s level, Zhu Zhuqing admits that she does not know.
• Tang San begins assigning strategy, but Zhu Zhuqing immediately challenges his authority, arguing that the group should listen to Fang Fan because he is the strongest.

Character Developments

• Zhu Zhuqing becomes increasingly protective and emotionally attached to Fang Fan. Her earlier embarrassment has disappeared, replaced by natural intimacy and firm loyalty. She is willing to reject Shrek’s admission rather than abandon him.
• Fang Fan remains mysterious, drunk, and apparently unconcerned with the danger ahead. His unknown cultivation and effortless defeat of Dai Mubai continue to make him the group’s hidden variable.
• Dai Mubai reveals a vindictive and calculating side. Rather than simply accepting Fang Fan as a fellow student, he eagerly sends him toward Zhao Wuji, expecting the teacher to crush his arrogance.
• Tang San naturally assumes the role of strategist and coordinator, showing calm leadership and practical judgment. However, his authority is challenged by Zhu Zhuqing because of Fang Fan’s superior demonstrated strength.
• Zhao Wuji becomes interested in Fang Fan after hearing that he defeated Dai Mubai. Instead of dismissing him as a troublemaker, Zhao views his rebelliousness as potentially suitable for Shrek.
• Ning Rongrong grows increasingly curious about the unusual relationship between Fang Fan and Zhu Zhuqing, while Xiao Wu and Tang San are likewise intrigued by his hidden abilities.

Significant Themes

• Mystery and concealed power: Fang Fan’s drunken behavior contrasts sharply with his unexplained swordsmanship, making his true strength the central suspense of the chapter.
• Loyalty and attachment: Zhu Zhuqing’s decision to stand by Fang Fan demonstrates growing trust and emotional dependence.
• Teamwork versus individual authority: The five students must cooperate against an opponent vastly stronger than any of them, but disagreement already emerges over who should lead.
• Pride and revenge: Dai Mubai’s desire to see Fang Fan humbled motivates his manipulation of the testing process.
• Strength beyond appearances: Fang Fan appears helpless and intoxicated, yet everyone suspects that his outward condition conceals extraordinary ability.

Important Character Interactions

• Zhu Zhuqing repeatedly cares for Fang Fan physically and emotionally, feeding him wine and supporting him.
• Dai Mubai watches their closeness with suspicion and irritation, then schemes to place Fang Fan in Zhao Wuji’s test.
• Zhao Wuji questions Fang Fan’s reputation after Dai Mubai reports his defeat, becoming eager to test him personally.
• Tang San tries to establish a cooperative battle formation, but Zhu Zhuqing rejects his leadership and points toward Fang Fan as the true strongest member.
• The chapter ends just as the group’s internal leadership conflict begins, immediately before the five students face Zhao Wuji.

Chapter Summary: Seven-Colored Light Sword That Pierced Heaven and Earth

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Wuji ends the group’s discussion and launches an attack, targeting the apparently drunken Fang Fan.
• Tang San, Xiao Wu, and Ning Rongrong retreat, while Zhu Zhuqing remains in front of Fang Fan. Ning Rongrong uses the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Pagoda to enhance Zhu Zhuqing and Fang Fan’s strength and speed.
• Zhu Zhuqing is immobilized by the pressure of Zhao Wuji’s Soul Sage-level power and appears unable to evade his devastating punch.
• Fang Fan suddenly awakens enough to respond. He manifests a dazzling seven-colored sword of light and casually swings it.
• The sword radiance cleaves the clouds, slices through several wooden huts, carves a deep scar into the earth, and overwhelms Zhao Wuji’s Immovable Bright King Body.
• Zhao Wuji is blasted backward into the huts and buried in a crater. Although injured and battered, he survives with only superficial wounds.
• The group is stunned by the attack’s overwhelming power. Zhao Wuji realizes Fang Fan deliberately restrained the strike and recognizes him as a true sword master.
• Zhao Wuji rises, now treating Fang Fan with serious respect, and declares that he will stop holding back.

Character Developments

• Fang Fan: Reveals extraordinary swordsmanship and power despite his drunken, lethargic appearance. His ability to control and withdraw the sword’s power demonstrates mastery far beyond simple physical strength.
• Zhao Wuji: Shifts from amused curiosity and confidence to shock, caution, and genuine respect. He recognizes that Fang Fan could have killed him but intentionally spared his life.
• Zhu Zhuqing: Shows courage by standing between Fang Fan and Zhao Wuji’s attack, even when fear and spiritual pressure prevent her from moving.
• Ning Rongrong: Immediately supports the others with her amplification abilities, but becomes so astonished by Fang Fan’s sword that she momentarily loses focus on her assistance.
• Tang San: Demonstrates readiness to protect Zhu Zhuqing, but realizes that he could neither block nor evade Fang Fan’s sword in his current state.
• Xiao Wu: Her teasing belief that Fang Fan is a foolish drunkard is overturned when she witnesses his overwhelming strength.
• Dai Mubai: Reacts with open disbelief, especially because he remembers Fang Fan’s earlier seven-colored sword and sees how much more powerful this attack is.

Significant Themes

• Hidden strength beneath appearances: Fang Fan’s drunken, careless behavior conceals terrifying skill and power.
• Mastery versus brute force: The attack is impressive not only because of its destructive force, but because Fang Fan controls it precisely enough to spare Zhao Wuji’s life.
• Respect earned through power: Zhao Wuji’s attitude changes once he experiences Fang Fan’s ability firsthand.
• Limits of perception: The others initially judge Fang Fan as unreliable or foolish, but his performance completely overturns their assumptions.
• The contrast between simplicity and greatness: Fang Fan uses an ordinary-looking sword swing, yet it produces an attack capable of splitting the sky and defeating a powerful Soul Sage.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Wu argues that the group should trust Tang San rather than Fang Fan, mocking Fang Fan as a drunkard.
• Zhao Wuji interrupts the discussion and attacks Fang Fan, forcing the others to react.
• Zhu Zhuqing protects Fang Fan by placing herself between him and Zhao Wuji, while Ning Rongrong strengthens them both.
• Fang Fan responds to Zhao Wuji’s attack with a single sword strike, protecting Zhu Zhuqing and decisively defeating Zhao Wuji.
• Tang San, Xiao Wu, Ning Rongrong, and Dai Mubai all witness the attack and reassess Fang Fan’s abilities.
• Zhao Wuji and Fang Fan enter a more serious confrontation, with Zhao Wuji preparing to fight at full strength.

Chapter Summary: Zhao Wuji’s Fury Shaves Him Bald; the Seven-Colored Light Sword Flashes

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Wuji responds seriously to Fang Fan’s earlier sword strike, activating his Vigorous Vajra Bear Martial Soul and revealing his seven Soul Rings: two yellow, two purple, and three black.
• He acknowledges that Fang Fan’s attack was comparable to the full-force strike of a level-57 Soul King, but claims Fang Fan cannot defeat him alone.
• Following the rule of targeting the support Soul Master, Zhao Wuji launches himself toward Ning Rongrong.
• Fang Fan counters with the Seven-Colored Light Sword, extending it to pierce Zhao Wuji’s defensive barrier and several wooden houses behind him.
• Fang Fan sweeps the sword sideways, destroying more houses and forcing Zhao Wuji to evade. The sword narrowly misses Zhao Wuji’s head, cutting away the hair on the top of his scalp and leaving him bald in a horseshoe pattern.
• Ning Rongrong laughs openly at Zhao Wuji’s appearance, while Dai Mubai, Tang San, and Xiao Wu are stunned by Fang Fan’s overwhelming attack.
• Fang Fan’s sweeping sword nearly strikes Tang San and Xiao Wu as well. They angrily accuse him of disregarding his teammates. Fang Fan coldly replies that weak people are not worthy of being his teammates.
• Fang Fan then uses the sword to move instantaneously toward Dai Mubai and kicks him violently, sending him crashing across the ground.
• When Dai Mubai protests that he did nothing, Fang Fan reveals that he knows Dai Mubai encouraged Zhao Wuji to teach him a lesson.
• Fang Fan drops his drunken act, becoming completely sober, composed, and intimidating. He condemns Dai Mubai for abandoning his fiancée and fleeing to Suotuo City, arguing that Dai Mubai has no right to seek revenge after Fang Fan merely punished him.
• The chapter ends as Fang Fan repeatedly launches Dai Mubai into the air and prepares to continue his assault with the extended Seven-Colored Light Sword.

Character Developments

• Fang Fan: Demonstrates extraordinary offensive power, speed, and precision. His apparent drunkenness is revealed to be partly an act; when confronting Dai Mubai, he becomes fully lucid and displays a cold, ruthless personality. He shows no concern for collateral damage or conventional teamwork.
• Zhao Wuji: Shifts from amusement to genuine caution after Fang Fan pierces his defense and nearly injures him. Despite his immense strength, he is humiliated when Fang Fan accidentally—or deliberately—shaves his head.
• Dai Mubai: Initially enjoys watching Zhao Wuji target Fang Fan, but his confidence collapses when Fang Fan attacks him directly. His past abandonment of his fiancée is exposed and used against him.
• Tang San and Xiao Wu: Become increasingly resentful of Fang Fan after nearly being struck by his sword. Their anger highlights their belief that teammates should protect one another.
• Ning Rongrong: Shows admiration for Fang Fan’s strength and openly enjoys Zhao Wuji’s humiliation, strengthening her favorable feelings toward Fang Fan.
• Zhu Zhuqing: Quietly supports Fang Fan, physically holding him more firmly and internally admiring his strength and masculinity.

Significant Themes

• Overwhelming strength versus teamwork: Fang Fan rejects the idea that all allies deserve equal consideration, believing only the strong are fit to stand beside him.
• Humiliation and power reversal: Zhao Wuji, initially dominant and confident, is forced to evade Fang Fan’s attacks and becomes the subject of ridicule.
• Revenge and hypocrisy: Fang Fan condemns Dai Mubai for seeking revenge despite having abandoned his fiancée and acted indirectly against Fang Fan.
• Hidden identity and deception: Fang Fan’s drunken appearance conceals his true awareness and combat ability, revealing the danger of judging him by appearances.
• Collateral damage and recklessness: Fang Fan’s attacks destroy numerous houses and nearly hit his supposed allies, emphasizing his disregard for restraint.
• Conflicting views of loyalty: Tang San and Xiao Wu value mutual protection among teammates, while Fang Fan views companionship as something earned through strength.

Important Character Interactions

• Fang Fan and Zhao Wuji: Their exchange escalates from a test of strength into a humiliating confrontation, with Fang Fan piercing Zhao Wuji’s defense and cutting his hair.
• Fang Fan, Tang San, and Xiao Wu: Their near-injury leads to an argument over Fang Fan’s lack of concern for teammates.
• Fang Fan and Dai Mubai: The central personal conflict of the chapter. Fang Fan physically punishes Dai Mubai and verbally condemns his past actions.
• Fang Fan and Zhu Zhuqing: Zhu Zhuqing silently supports him, contrasting with Tang San and Xiao Wu’s anger.
• Ning Rongrong and Zhao Wuji: Ning Rongrong openly laughs at Zhao Wuji’s baldness, adding a comedic element to the otherwise violent battle.

Chapter Summary: “Bald Blond, Tang San’s Sneak Attack Shattered by a Kick”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Fan’s sword narrowly misses Dai Mubai’s head but slices off a large tuft of his blond hair, leaving him with a glaring bald patch.
• Zhao Wuji discovers that he has also been left bald, apparently as a result of Fang Fan’s earlier attack. Both men are enraged and humiliated.
• Ning Rongrong laughs uncontrollably at their appearance, while Xiao Wu’s anger toward Fang Fan weakens. Zhu Zhuqing realizes that Fang Fan had only pretended to be drunk to test whether she would abandon him; her loyalty reassures him.
• Zhao Wuji activates his Seventh Soul Skill, transforming into a five-meter-tall Vigorous Vajra Bear Martial Soul Avatar. Dai Mubai also activates his White Tiger possession and prepares to attack Fang Fan.
• Tang San launches a surprise attack using Blue Silver Entanglement, intending to restrain Fang Fan so Zhao Wuji and Dai Mubai can kill him.
• Fang Fan escapes the vines by merging with a seven-colored sword of light. He reappears beside Tang San and defeats him with a powerful flying kick.
• Tang San is sent crashing through a tree and into a wooden house, coughing blood and suffering severe internal injuries.
• Zhao Wuji and Dai Mubai strike Fang Fan’s former position with their full strength, creating a large crater, but hit only fading motes of seven-colored light.
• Zhao Wuji is shocked by Fang Fan’s speed and mysterious ability to merge with the light sword.

Character Developments

• Fang Fan: Demonstrates overwhelming speed, composure, and combat skill. He remains relaxed despite being surrounded by powerful attackers and effortlessly defeats Tang San’s ambush.
• Dai Mubai: His pride is badly damaged by being humiliated and partially shaved bald. His anger intensifies, and he attacks Fang Fan with the force expected of a Star Luo prince and Battle Soul Elder.
• Zhao Wuji: His dignity as a powerful Soul Sage is shattered by Fang Fan’s attack. He responds by using his strongest transformation, but is stunned when Fang Fan evades it.
• Tang San: Reveals a more calculating and vindictive side by launching a killing attack while Fang Fan is being confronted by Zhao Wuji and Dai Mubai. His confidence collapses when Fang Fan easily counters him, leaving him seriously injured.
• Zhu Zhuqing: Gains greater trust in Fang Fan after understanding that his drunkenness was an intentional test. She becomes alarmed and emotionally distressed when Tang San attempts to kill him.
• Xiao Wu: Her resentment toward Fang Fan diminishes after seeing the absurdity of the baldness incident. She also becomes conflicted when Tang San makes a potentially lethal sneak attack.
• Ning Rongrong: Amused by Dai Mubai and Zhao Wuji’s humiliation, she also recognizes that Fang Fan saved her earlier and becomes disgusted by Tang San’s betrayal.

Significant Themes

• Humiliation and pride: Dai Mubai and Zhao Wuji’s baldness turns their authority and strength into public embarrassment.
• Loyalty and trust: Fang Fan’s test of Zhu Zhuqing highlights the importance of remaining loyal during danger.
• Betrayal and hypocrisy: Tang San advocates cooperation but secretly attacks Fang Fan with lethal intent, contrasting sharply with Fang Fan’s direct methods.
• Power versus arrogance: Despite the opponents’ superior numbers and transformations, Fang Fan’s speed and technique allow him to control the battle.
• Appearance and comic relief: The bald patches provide humor and temporarily defuse the tension, even amid a potentially deadly confrontation.

Character Interactions

• Fang Fan humiliates Dai Mubai and Zhao Wuji, provoking both into a coordinated assault.
• Ning Rongrong openly laughs at the two bald men, while Xiao Wu’s hostility toward Fang Fan lessens.
• Zhu Zhuqing silently confirms her loyalty to Fang Fan and reacts strongly to Tang San’s attack.
• Tang San attempts to cooperate with Zhao Wuji and Dai Mubai by secretly restraining Fang Fan, but Fang Fan immediately targets and overwhelms him.
• Fang Fan’s evasive sword-light technique leaves Zhao Wuji and Dai Mubai attacking an illusion-like afterimage, emphasizing the vast difference in their current combat abilities.

Chapter Summary: “Dai Mubai Becomes a Eunuch”

Key Plot Points and Events

• After Fang Fan severely injures Tang San’s hands, Xiao Wu immediately rushes to protect him. Tang San, enraged, attacks Fang Fan with numerous hidden weapons while using Ghost Shadow Perplexing Track.
• Xiao Wu, Zhao Wuji, and Dai Mubai join the assault, surrounding Fang Fan from multiple directions.
• Zhu Zhuqing considers intervening, but Fang Fan calmly asks her for wine instead. He uses his sword technique to reach her instantly, drinks from the jug she offers, and gains increased drunkenness through his system.
• Fang Fan then carries Zhu Zhuqing to safety beside Ning Rongrong before confronting the attackers alone.
• He reveals five powerful Soul Rings—two purple and three black—and summons a gigantic seven-colored sword.
• Fang Fan’s sword attack overwhelms Zhao Wuji’s defenses. The strike creates a field of swords erupting from the earth, forcing Tang San, Xiao Wu, and Dai Mubai to flee or evade.
• Zhao Wuji is impaled in a particularly humiliating and painful location. Overwhelmed, he abandons the fight and flees while clutching his injured backside.
• Dai Mubai attempts to escape, but Fang Fan intercepts and kicks him through the air into an open latrine pit.
• While trapped and covered in filth, Dai Mubai is pierced by an iron pipe in the same vulnerable area, suffering a devastating injury that suggests he may be permanently crippled or rendered impotent. He screams and vows revenge.

Character Developments

• Fang Fan: Demonstrates overwhelming combat ability despite being only a level-fifty-three Soul King. His superior swordsmanship, mobility, unusual fighting style, and high-level Soul Rings allow him to defeat a level-seventy-two Soul Sage and several powerful opponents simultaneously. His relaxed attitude, especially his insistence on drinking during battle, emphasizes his confidence and eccentricity.
• Tang San: His hands are badly bruised and internally injured by Fang Fan’s earlier attack. His anger intensifies, but even his hidden-weapon assault cannot threaten Fang Fan.
• Xiao Wu: Remains fiercely loyal to Tang San and immediately joins his counterattack. Her agility and flexibility allow her to avoid Fang Fan’s sword formation.
• Zhao Wuji: Despite activating his Martial Soul Avatar and attempting to resist the giant sword with gravity-based power, he is completely overwhelmed. His humiliating injury destroys his dignity and sends him fleeing.
• Dai Mubai: Initially attacks alongside the others but loses his nerve after seeing Zhao Wuji retreat. His attempted escape ends in extreme humiliation and a potentially permanent injury, leaving him enraged and desperate for revenge.
• Zhu Zhuqing: Shows genuine concern for Fang Fan and nearly attempts to help him. Her cooperation in feeding him wine reflects growing trust and familiarity. Fang Fan’s protection of her deepens their connection.
• Ning Rongrong: Becomes astonished and fascinated by Fang Fan after witnessing him defeat Zhao Wuji. Her admiration shifts toward curiosity and romantic interest.

Significant Themes

• Overwhelming strength versus conventional power levels: Fang Fan proves that Soul Power rank alone does not determine victory; technique, control, speed, and special abilities can overcome a major level gap.
• Humiliation and reversal of status: Powerful figures such as Zhao Wuji and Dai Mubai are reduced to helpless, ridiculous states, reversing the authority they held at the beginning of the confrontation.
• Loyalty and emotional bonds: Xiao Wu supports Tang San without hesitation, while Zhu Zhuqing’s concern for Fang Fan reveals her growing attachment.
• Confidence and unconventional combat: Fang Fan’s casual drinking in the middle of battle contrasts sharply with the desperation of his opponents, reinforcing his control and superiority.
• Admiration of exceptional talent: Ning Rongrong’s reaction highlights how Fang Fan’s abilities distinguish him from ordinary geniuses and inspire awe and attraction.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Wu comforts and supports Tang San after his hands are injured, then joins his attack.
• Tang San and the others coordinate an assault against Fang Fan, but their cooperation fails against his speed and sword techniques.
• Zhu Zhuqing feeds Fang Fan wine while he pauses during battle, and he physically moves her to safety before resuming the fight.
• Ning Rongrong witnesses Fang Fan’s victory and begins viewing him with fascination.
• Fang Fan humiliates both Zhao Wuji and Dai Mubai, defeating them decisively and leaving Dai Mubai injured, trapped, and vowing revenge.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Fan confronts Tang San after previously defeating and humiliating Dai Mubai and Zhao Wuji. Tang San had helped ambush him with Blue Silver Grass, hidden weapons, and the others’ coordinated attack.
• Zhao Wuji has already fled, not because he was decisively defeated, but because Fang Fan’s earlier attack struck him in an extremely embarrassing place, causing him to lose face in front of the students.
• Fang Fan suspects Tang Hao is nearby, observing the confrontation. Although Tang Hao is a powerful Clear Sky Douluo, his old injuries have greatly weakened him.
• Fang Fan drinks wine through Zhu Zhuqing’s assistance, raising his drunkenness level enough to obtain a lottery draw. The reward is Du Busi, a level-ninety-six Super Douluo and Body Sect Master, who is secretly nearby and ready to protect Fang Fan.
• With Du Busi present, Fang Fan no longer fears interference from Tang Hao and attacks Tang San directly.
• Xiao Wu attempts to defend Tang San, but Fang Fan catches her incoming kick, throws her aside, and is stopped from further engagement by Zhu Zhuqing.
• Fang Fan destroys Tang San’s Blue Silver Grass attacks with seven-colored sword energy and humiliates him by striking him with a powerful slap rather than using his sword.
• Enraged, Tang San unleashes numerous hidden weapons, including deadly Dragon Beard Needles, while using Ghost Shadow Perplexing Track to maneuver.
• Fang Fan effortlessly avoids the weapons by merging with his flying light swords, appears behind Tang San, and delivers a second, even heavier slap that sends Tang San tumbling across the ground.

Character Developments

• Fang Fan: Becomes increasingly confident and openly retaliatory, choosing humiliation over simply defeating Tang San. His newly obtained protector gives him security against Tang Hao and allows him to act without restraint.
• Tang San: Shifts from grim resistance to uncontrollable rage after being slapped and publicly humiliated. Despite using his strongest hidden weapons and movement techniques, he remains completely outclassed.
• Xiao Wu: Demonstrates fierce loyalty by immediately trying to protect Tang San, but is physically overpowered and forced to recognize that she cannot win.
• Zhu Zhuqing: Continues assisting Fang Fan by feeding him wine, while also showing clear judgment by preventing Xiao Wu from recklessly attacking again.
• Zhao Wuji: Though technically powerful enough to continue fighting, retreats because of shame over his earlier defeat and embarrassing injury.
• Du Busi: Introduced as Fang Fan’s concealed protector. His presence establishes a major power advantage and represents Fang Fan’s growing influence.
• Tang Hao: Remains an unseen threat, watching from nearby, but his injuries leave him vulnerable compared with Du Busi.

Significant Themes

• Humiliation as retaliation: Fang Fan deliberately uses slaps and physical embarrassment to punish Tang San for ambushing him, making the confrontation personal rather than merely martial.
• Power and intimidation: The conflict emphasizes the overwhelming gap between Fang Fan and Tang San, as well as the importance of high-level protectors in determining the balance of power.
• Loyalty and protection: Xiao Wu risks herself for Tang San, Zhu Zhuqing supports Fang Fan, and Du Busi secretly stands ready to defend his master.
• Pride and social disgrace: Zhao Wuji’s retreat highlights how public humiliation can be more damaging than physical defeat.
• Skill versus preparation: Tang San relies on carefully prepared hidden weapons and techniques, but Fang Fan’s superior speed, sword control, and instincts render them ineffective.

Character Interactions

• Fang Fan intimidates Tang San and approaches him while Tang San prepares his Sleeve Arrows.
• Zhu Zhuqing feeds Fang Fan wine, enabling him to summon Du Busi through the system.
• Xiao Wu attacks Fang Fan to defend Tang San; Fang Fan catches her foot and throws her away, while Zhu Zhuqing stops her from trying again.
• Tang San uses Blue Silver Grass to restrain and attack Fang Fan, but Fang Fan cuts it apart effortlessly.
• Tang San fires a barrage of hidden weapons in fury, yet Fang Fan evades everything and slaps him a second time.
• The chapter ends with Tang San badly beaten, enraged, and helpless, while Fang Fan remains dominant and protected by Du Busi.

Chapter Summary: “Tang Hao Descends”

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Fan brutally humiliates Tang San, repeatedly slapping him before stomping his face into the dirt and grinding it against the ground.
• Tang Hao, secretly watching nearby, becomes enraged after seeing his son abused in public. His killing intent erupts, releasing overwhelming pressure across the academy.
• The dark-red aura immobilizes nearly everyone present:
  • Flender is pinned to his chair.
  • Zhao Wuji is forced to his knees.
  • Dai Mubai is knocked down after emerging from the latrine.
  • Xiao Wu fears that Tang Hao may expose her identity as a transformed Hundred-Thousand-Year Soul Beast.
• Fang Fan is the main target of Tang Hao’s pressure, while Zhu Zhuqing is affected because she is standing near him. Fang Fan uses his sword intent to resist the force and shields Zhu Zhuqing with his body.
• Despite facing Tang Hao’s terrifying aura, Fang Fan remains calm and even asks Zhu Zhuqing for more wine, demonstrating his confidence.
• Tang Hao reveals himself as a powerful Titled Douluo with nine Soul Rings, including a Hundred-Thousand-Year Soul Ring, and confronts Fang Fan directly.
• Tang Hao warns Fang Fan that he is courting death.
• Before the confrontation can fully unfold, another powerful figure appears: an imposing white-haired, dark-green-eyed old man who emerges from the void and challenges the situation.

2. Character Developments

• Fang Fan: Displays extreme composure, arrogance, and tactical confidence. Rather than retreating under Tang Hao’s pressure, he protects Zhu Zhuqing and continues drinking. He has deliberately provoked Tang San to draw Tang Hao out, relying on the possibility that Du Busi is nearby to counterbalance Tang Hao.
• Tang San: Suffers both physical pain and profound humiliation. His inability to resist either Fang Fan or Tang Hao’s pressure intensifies his rage and sense of helplessness.
• Tang Hao: His hidden identity and protective feelings toward Tang San are exposed. His normally restrained demeanor gives way to murderous anger, revealing how deeply he values the safety and dignity of his son.
• Zhu Zhuqing: Shows increasing trust in Fang Fan by continuing to serve him wine despite the overwhelming pressure. She is also impressed by his strength when he shields her.
• Ning Rongrong: Remains remarkably calm and observant, treating the conflict as a spectacle. Her curiosity about Fang Fan grows because of his unusual strength and unknown background.
• Xiao Wu: Becomes frightened that Tang Hao may recognize her true nature, adding danger beyond the confrontation between Fang Fan and Tang Hao.
• The academy members: Their helplessness under Tang Hao’s Domain emphasizes the enormous gap between ordinary Soul Masters and Titled Douluo-level experts.

3. Significant Themes

• Humiliation and revenge: Fang Fan’s deliberate degradation of Tang San provokes Tang Hao and drives the chapter’s central conflict.
• Parental protection: Tang Hao’s fury stems from years of sacrifice and concealment to keep Tang San safe. Seeing his son disgraced triggers his murderous response.
• Power and composure: The chapter contrasts Fang Fan’s relaxed confidence with the overwhelming pressure of Tang Hao’s strength. Fang Fan’s calmness becomes a statement of power in itself.
• Hidden identities and calculated schemes: Tang Hao’s secret presence, Xiao Wu’s concealed identity, and Fang Fan’s knowledge of Du Busi’s involvement all show that the confrontation is shaped by secrets and strategy.
• The hierarchy of strength: The reactions of Flender, Zhao Wuji, Dai Mubai, and others emphasize the terrifying authority of a Titled Douluo, while Fang Fan’s resistance marks him as an exceptional figure.

4. Character Interactions

• Fang Fan and Tang San: Their interaction is openly antagonistic, with Fang Fan physically dominating and humiliating Tang San while Tang San responds with helpless fury.
• Fang Fan and Tang Hao: Their confrontation is indirect at first, but Tang Hao’s threat and Fang Fan’s calm response establish an imminent battle between two powerful experts.
• Fang Fan and Zhu Zhuqing: Fang Fan protects her from Tang Hao’s Domain, and she supports him by giving him wine, indicating growing cooperation and trust.
• Tang Hao and Tang San: Tang Hao’s reaction reveals his deep paternal attachment and willingness to kill anyone who harms his son.
• Fang Fan and the wider academy: His refusal to bow under Tang Hao’s pressure distinguishes him from everyone else and draws Ning Rongrong’s attention.
• Tang Hao and the newly arrived elder: The appearance of the dark-green-eyed old man introduces a second high-level power, suggesting that Tang Hao will not be able to act without opposition.

Chapter Summary: “Who Are You, Really? Heavy Losses”

Key Plot Points and Events

• A mysterious, dark-green-robed Titled Douluo confronts Tang Hao after Tang Hao intervenes in the conflict involving Fang Fan and the younger generation.
• The newcomer’s poison aura overwhelms Tang Hao’s Divine Slaughter’s Domain. His strength is revealed to be Level 96, though his power rivals that of a Level-97 expert.
• The man identifies himself as Du Busi, Fang Fan’s guardian. He condemns Tang Hao for interfering in a dispute between juniors and accuses him of bullying the weak.
• Du Busi reveals an astonishing soul-ring configuration: two yellow, two purple, three black, and three red Hundred-Thousand-Year Soul Rings. This shocks Tang San, Xiao Wu, Ning Rongrong, and the others.
• Realizing that Du Busi is overwhelmingly powerful—and that his own injuries prevent him from fighting safely—Tang Hao withdraws rather than risk a battle.
• Du Busi also disappears after ensuring Fang Fan’s safety. The academy grounds are left damaged and silent.
• Fang Fan, Zhu Zhuqing, and eventually Ning Rongrong prepare to leave the academy after offending its teachers.

Character Developments

• Du Busi is established as a terrifyingly powerful and experienced figure from a later era. He is deeply loyal to Fang Fan and openly contemptuous of Tang Hao’s conduct.
• Tang Hao is forced to retreat despite his reputation as the Clear Sky Douluo. His injuries, caution, and recognition of Du Busi’s strength reveal his vulnerability.
• Fang Fan’s status rises dramatically in the eyes of the others. His casual confirmation that Du Busi is “one of his people” suggests an extremely mysterious and powerful background.
• Zhu Zhuqing’s trust in Fang Fan deepens. She no longer questions his identity or origins and willingly supports and follows him.
• Ning Rongrong’s view of Fang Fan changes. She stops seeing him as merely a drunken youth relying on Zhu Zhuqing and recognizes him as an extraordinary prodigy with unmatched protection.
• Tang San’s image is questioned by Du Busi, who sees his ambushes and use of hidden weapons as inconsistent with the saintly reputation later generations will give him.
• Xiao Wu is visibly frightened by Du Busi’s three Hundred-Thousand-Year Soul Rings, sensing their power as a fellow Hundred-Thousand-Year existence.

Significant Themes

• Power and intimidation: Du Busi’s arrival completely reverses the balance of power and forces even Tang Hao to retreat.
• Reputation versus reality: Tang San is celebrated in historical records as noble and righteous, but Du Busi witnesses him acting opportunistically and violently.
• Generational differences: The classifications of high-level Soul Masters differ between eras, emphasizing Du Busi’s origins and extensive experience.
• Hidden identities and mysterious backgrounds: Fang Fan’s true origins remain unknown, but his guardian and abilities imply an extraordinary lineage or organization.
• Loyalty and protection: Du Busi’s role as Fang Fan’s guardian contrasts with Tang Hao’s interference and highlights the importance of defending one’s allies without abusing power.
• Changing perceptions: Characters who once underestimated Fang Fan are forced to reassess him after seeing his strength and connections.

Character Interactions

• Du Busi and Tang Hao: Their confrontation is primarily verbal and psychological after Du Busi overwhelms Tang Hao’s domain. Du Busi mocks Tang Hao’s interference, while Tang Hao attempts to invoke the Clear Sky Sect’s reputation before retreating.
• Du Busi and Fang Fan: Du Busi acts as Fang Fan’s protector but trusts that Fang Fan will eventually defeat Tang Hao himself.
• Fang Fan and Zhu Zhuqing: Their relationship appears comfortable and familiar. Zhu Zhuqing supports the drunken Fang Fan, feeds him wine, and helps him leave without questioning his secrets.
• Fang Fan and Ning Rongrong: Though they do not interact directly in the aftermath, Ning Rongrong’s opinion of him changes substantially as she recognizes his exceptional strength.
• Tang Hao and Tang San’s group: Tang Hao intervenes to protect the younger generation but ultimately abandons the confrontation after realizing Du Busi is too dangerous to challenge.

Chapter Summary: “Beautiful Girl”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Flender and Zhao Wuji return to Shrek Academy’s examination grounds and find them devastated: huts are destroyed, the ground is scarred by sword strikes, and the latrine has been wrecked.
• Dai Mubai is covered in filth, Tang San has been badly beaten and left with a swollen face, and Xiao Wu is shaken and tearful. Three of the five prospective students are missing.
• Xiao Wu explains that Fang Fan defeated Zhao Wuji with a single sword strike, overwhelmed Tang San, and fought off the intervention of two Titled Douluo before leaving with Zhu Zhuqing and Ning Rongrong.
• Flender angrily blames Zhao Wuji for trusting Dai Mubai’s judgment. He realizes that Shrek has lost three extraordinary talents: Zhu Zhuqing, Ning Rongrong, and Fang Fan.
• Fang Fan, Zhu Zhuqing, and Ning Rongrong travel along the road outside Suotuo City. Fang Fan appears sober and composed, revealing that he uses drinking to enter a state that helps him cultivate sword intent.
• Zhu Zhuqing, though weakened from her injuries, quietly follows Fang Fan and attends to him, having decided to accompany him wherever he goes.
• Ning Rongrong becomes increasingly fascinated by Fang Fan, whose drunken habits contrast sharply with his elegance and overwhelming combat ability.
• On the road, the group encounters Ma Hongjun. He immediately ogles both women and crudely propositions Zhu Zhuqing, provoking Fang Fan’s attention.

Character Developments

• Fang Fan: His immense strength and swordsmanship are confirmed by his effortless defeat of Zhao Wuji and his ability to contend with Titled Douluo-level forces. He is revealed to be deliberately cultivating through alcohol rather than simply indulging in drunkenness. His calm response to Ma Hongjun suggests controlled confidence and impending retaliation.
• Zhu Zhuqing: She becomes deeply loyal to Fang Fan, choosing to follow him without needing to know their destination. Despite exhaustion and lingering weakness, she remains composed and attentive, bringing him wine whenever he wants it.
• Ning Rongrong: Her initial interest in Fang Fan develops into strong fascination. She is captivated by the contradiction between his apparent drunkenness and his graceful, terrifying power.
• Flender: He is devastated by losing three gifted students and furious at Zhao Wuji’s poor judgment. His reaction highlights how seriously he values rare talent.
• Zhao Wuji: Humiliated by Fang Fan’s attack and Flender’s reprimand, he recognizes that trusting Dai Mubai was a serious mistake.
• Xiao Wu and Tang San: Xiao Wu is traumatized by the confrontation and remains fixated on Fang Fan’s three red soul rings. Tang San is physically injured and unable to speak normally.
• Ma Hongjun: He is introduced as crude, lustful, and disrespectful, immediately judging Zhu Zhuqing and Ning Rongrong by their appearance.

Significant Themes

• The cost of arrogance and poor judgment: Zhao Wuji’s decision to follow Dai Mubai’s assumptions leads to the loss of three exceptional students and the destruction of the examination grounds.
• Power and hidden identity: Fang Fan’s relaxed, drunken appearance conceals extraordinary strength, making him difficult for others to judge accurately.
• Loyalty and personal choice: Zhu Zhuqing’s decision to follow Fang Fan demonstrates that her allegiance is now based on personal conviction rather than institutional ties to Shrek Academy.
• Beauty and objectification: The chapter contrasts Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing’s growing recognition of Fang Fan’s character and abilities with Ma Hongjun’s crude, purely physical appraisal of them.
• Alcohol as cultivation: Fang Fan’s drinking is reframed as a deliberate method for accessing sword intent and refining his power.

Character Interactions

• Flender and Zhao Wuji: Flender harshly reprimands Zhao Wuji for listening to Dai Mubai and failing to recognize Fang Fan’s danger and value.
• Fang Fan and Zhu Zhuqing: Their relationship is quiet and trusting. Zhu Zhuqing supports him physically and emotionally, while Fang Fan accepts her presence without questioning it.
• Fang Fan and Ning Rongrong: Ning Rongrong watches and analyzes him with growing admiration, intrigued by his elegance, strength, and eccentricity.
• Fang Fan and Ma Hongjun: The chapter ends with Ma Hongjun sexually insulting Zhu Zhuqing. Fang Fan stops and observes him coldly, creating a clear setup for confrontation.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhu Zhuqing confronts Ma Hongjun after he makes vulgar, lecherous comments about her appearance. Fang Fan gives her permission to deal with him however she wishes.
• Ning Rongrong also lashes out at Ma Hongjun, but he insults her figure and continues focusing on Zhu Zhuqing.
• Zhu Zhuqing attacks first using her Hell Spirit Cat Martial Soul. Ma Hongjun narrowly evades her claws and reveals that he possesses the mutated Evil Fire Phoenix Martial Soul. Both are revealed to be around level 28, setting up an evenly matched fight.
• Meanwhile, Xiao Wu returns to the Shrek dormitory with the badly injured Tang San. His wounds are serious-looking but ultimately superficial.
• Flender and Zhao Wuji identify the mysterious Titled Douluo who protected Tang San as Tang Hao, Tang San’s father—the legendary Clear Sky Douluo. They hurry to Suotuo City in hopes of persuading Fang Fan and the others to remain with Shrek.
• Left alone with Tang San, Xiao Wu becomes increasingly terrified that Tang Hao has already recognized her true identity as a Hundred-Thousand-Year Soul Beast. She suspects he may have spared her because he intended to use her for Tang San’s future Soul Ring and soul bone.
• Believing this is her only chance to escape, Xiao Wu tearfully says farewell to Tang San and leaves Shrek Academy, running toward the Star Dou Forest, her birthplace and true home.

Character Developments

• Zhu Zhuqing displays her pride, self-control, and combat confidence. Though disgusted by Ma Hongjun, she waits for Fang Fan’s approval before acting, showing respect for his authority.
• Ma Hongjun is portrayed as crude, arrogant, and sexually disrespectful, but also as a capable fighter with quick reactions and a powerful mutated Martial Soul.
• Ning Rongrong shows her quick temper and protective instincts by defending Zhu Zhuqing. Ma Hongjun’s insult exposes her insecurity about her body.
• Fang Fan maintains his relaxed, dominant presence, casually permitting Zhu Zhuqing to punish Ma Hongjun and accepting responsibility for any consequences.
• Xiao Wu undergoes the chapter’s major emotional transformation. Her affection for Tang San remains deep, but fear for her life forces her to abandon him. She chooses survival and escape despite the pain of severing their bond.
• Tang San is physically helpless after his injuries, but his desperate attempt to reach Xiao Wu reveals how emotionally dependent and attached he is to her.
• Flender becomes excited upon realizing Tang San’s connection to Tang Hao and regrets losing the opportunity to retain the stronger students.

Significant Themes

• The conflict between love and survival: Xiao Wu’s affection for Tang San clashes with the danger posed by her hidden identity.
• Human–Soul Beast division: Xiao Wu recognizes that, despite their closeness, she and Tang San belong to fundamentally different worlds.
• Fear and persecution: Her memories of her mother’s death and the threat of being hunted for her Soul Ring and soul bone drive Xiao Wu’s decision to flee.
• Power and hidden identities: Tang Hao’s concealed protection of Tang San, Fang Fan’s mysterious strength, and Xiao Wu’s secret nature all emphasize the dangers of concealed power.
• Vulnerability beneath strength: Zhu Zhuqing appears controlled and formidable, while Xiao Wu—normally lively and brave—is reduced to grief and fear as she leaves Tang San.

Character Interactions

• Zhu Zhuqing and Ma Hongjun begin a hostile confrontation shaped by his harassment and her restrained fury.
• Ning Rongrong verbally defends Zhu Zhuqing but becomes embarrassed and angered when Ma Hongjun insults her.
• Flender and Zhao Wuji discuss Tang Hao’s identity and rush to recover their relationship with the departing students.
• Xiao Wu and Tang San share a silent farewell: she speaks while he is unable to respond, and his outstretched hand becomes a symbol of their broken connection.
• The chapter ends with Xiao Wu fleeing alone toward the Star Dou Forest, leaving behind Tang San, Shrek Academy, and the human life she had built.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Wu realizes that remaining at Shrek would expose her to Tang Hao, who has identified her as a Hundred-Thousand-Year Soft Bone Rabbit. She flees toward the Star Dou Forest, where her knowledge of the terrain and status as the region’s dominant low-level soul beast will protect her.
• Tang Hao returns to Shrek and finds Tang San crawling helplessly toward Xiao Wu’s room. After sensing that Xiao Wu has escaped, he realizes that his long-term plan—to have Tang San obtain Xiao Wu’s Hundred-Thousand-Year Soul Ring and Soul Bone—has failed.
• Tang Hao blames Fang Fan and the intervention of the mysterious level-ninety-six Titled Douluo for forcing Xiao Wu to recognize the danger and flee prematurely.
• Tang San reacts with intense grief and desperation, while Tang Hao awkwardly places him back in bed. Although emotionally distant and inexperienced at caregiving, Tang Hao shows a rare moment of concern for his son.
• Tang Hao decides to pursue Xiao Wu using the Soul Power trace he had secretly placed on her.
• Dai Mubai remains traumatized after his injuries, repeatedly washing himself and fearing that his reproductive function may be permanently damaged.
• Elsewhere, Ma Hongjun attempts to attack and sexually assault Zhu Zhuqing. She easily evades him and uses her second Soul Skill, Netherworld Hundred Claws, to severely injure him between the legs.
• Ma Hongjun crashes headfirst into a rice paddy and realizes that provoking someone stronger has potentially cost him his manhood.
• Ning Rongrong witnesses Zhu Zhuqing’s decisive retaliation and praises her. Zhu Zhuqing credits Fang Fan for giving her the confidence to act without fear.
• Zhao Wuji arrives, mistakes Ma Hongjun for someone deliberately planted upside down in the mud, and pulls him out, worsening his pain.

2. Character Developments

• Xiao Wu: Demonstrates instinct, courage, and practical survival knowledge by abandoning Shrek before Tang Hao can capture her. Her tears show that leaving Tang San and the others is emotionally painful, but self-preservation ultimately prevails.
• Tang Hao: Is revealed to have manipulated Xiao Wu’s proximity to Tang San for years, intending to sacrifice her for Tang San’s advancement. His frustration exposes his calculating side, though his brief concern for Tang San hints at buried paternal affection.
• Tang San: Suffers both physical and emotional collapse after Xiao Wu’s escape. His desperate attempt to follow her reveals his dependence on her and the depth of his attachment.
• Dai Mubai: Is left humiliated and psychologically shaken by his injuries, with his pride as a prince severely damaged.
• Zhu Zhuqing: Becomes more assertive and openly retaliatory. Her confidence comes not from changing her nature, but from finally having powerful protection and support.
• Ma Hongjun: His arrogance, lust, and belief in his own combat superiority lead directly to a devastating defeat. He learns too late that sexual aggression and underestimating an opponent can have catastrophic consequences.
• Ning Rongrong: Recognizes Fang Fan’s influence and power, concluding that he is someone who must not be antagonized.
• Fang Fan: Though mostly not acting directly in the chapter, his presence and protection significantly alter Zhu Zhuqing’s behavior and the balance of power around Shrek.

3. Significant Themes

• Predation and exploitation: Tang Hao views Xiao Wu primarily as a source of a powerful Soul Ring and Soul Bone, while Ma Hongjun treats Zhu Zhuqing as an object for his own desires.
• Power enabling resistance: Zhu Zhuqing can retaliate only after gaining the protection of Fang Fan and the Titled Douluo. The chapter emphasizes how security allows the oppressed to stop enduring abuse.
• The consequences of underestimating others: Tang Hao misjudges Xiao Wu’s attachment and resolve; Ma Hongjun underestimates Zhu Zhuqing’s speed and ruthlessness, suffering severe consequences.
• Trauma and humiliation: Tang San, Dai Mubai, and Ma Hongjun each respond to overwhelming physical or emotional damage, though in different ways—grief, shame, denial, and panic.
• Family and emotional distance: Tang Hao’s relationship with Tang San is marked by manipulation and poor communication, yet his brief tenderness suggests genuine feeling beneath his harsh exterior.
• Freedom versus control: Xiao Wu’s escape represents a rejection of Tang Hao’s carefully constructed plan and her refusal to remain trapped in a role designed for someone else’s advancement.

4. Character Interactions

• Tang Hao confronts the aftermath of Xiao Wu’s escape and silently observes Tang San’s grief, offering blunt information rather than emotional comfort.
• Tang Hao also notices Dai Mubai’s humiliation and snaps him out of his shock by striking him with a pebble.
• Zhu Zhuqing decisively defeats Ma Hongjun after he attempts to assault her, reversing the power dynamic between them.
• Ning Rongrong admires Zhu Zhuqing’s retaliation and reinforces the idea that Ma Hongjun deserved punishment.
• Zhu Zhuqing openly acknowledges that Fang Fan’s protection gave her the freedom to fight back.
• Zhao Wuji arrives after the battle and pulls the injured Ma Hongjun from the rice paddy, unaware at first of the severity of what happened.

Chapter Summary: “Taste the Might of Heaven-Slaying”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Flender and Li Yusong discover Ma Hongjun badly injured after being pulled from the mud. His clothes are torn, his groin is bleeding heavily, and the Evil Fire Phoenix’s side effects are raging out of control.
• Flender attempts to suppress Ma Hongjun’s overheated Soul Power but is forced to withdraw because of its intensity. Zhao Wuji and Flender immediately decide to avenge their student without investigating what happened.
• Ma Hongjun claims that three young people attacked him, particularly blaming the “cold, busty” Zhu Zhuqing. He deliberately leaves out that he harassed the girls and attempted to take them away by force.
• Flender flies ahead and confronts Fang Fan, Zhu Zhuqing, and Ning Rongrong on the official road. Fang Fan appears drunk and is casually leaning against Zhu Zhuqing, though his eyes are secretly clear.
• Flender demands that the group kneel, apologize, and admit fault. Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing explain that Ma Hongjun initiated the confrontation by insulting and attacking them.
• Flender releases the pressure of his seven-ring, level-seventy-eight Soul Sage cultivation. Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing are overwhelmed, but Fang Fan counters with his Heaven-Slaying Sword Intent.
• Fang Fan’s sword intent completely cuts through Flender’s oppressive aura. He then decides to use the confrontation to test the offensive power of the sword intent he has cultivated for six months.
• The chapter ends as Fang Fan gathers an extremely small thread of sword intent between two fingers. Though it appears weak and unremarkable, it freezes the surrounding air and signals the imminent attack.

Character Developments

• Ma Hongjun is shown as both reckless and dishonest. He has been severely punished for provoking Zhu Zhuqing but presents himself as an innocent victim, reinforcing his lecherous and irresponsible nature.
• Flender demonstrates fierce loyalty to Shrek and a strong tendency to protect his students unconditionally, even when they are clearly at fault. His pride and anger override his judgment.
• Zhao Wuji is eager for revenge and uses the incident as an outlet for his own humiliation after previously losing to Fang Fan.
• Zhu Zhuqing remains cold, direct, and self-possessed. She openly admits attacking Ma Hongjun and refuses to justify herself beyond stating that he deserved it.
• Ning Rongrong becomes more assertive, angrily defending herself and Zhu Zhuqing while exposing Ma Hongjun’s misconduct.
• Fang Fan shifts from appearing lazy and intoxicated to revealing his calm, formidable strength. He recognizes Flender’s identity and deliberately restrains his power so that he can test his technique without killing him.

Significant Themes

• Blind loyalty versus justice: Shrek’s teachers defend their student automatically, embodying the academy’s “protect our own” mentality rather than seeking the truth.
• Consequences of misconduct: Ma Hongjun’s injuries are the direct result of his harassment and attempted coercion, despite his attempt to hide those facts.
• Hidden strength: Fang Fan’s drunken, slouched appearance conceals absolute clarity and overwhelming sword mastery.
• Power and restraint: Fang Fan must carefully regulate the Heaven-Slaying Sword Intent, since even a small percentage of its power could seriously injure or kill Flender.
• Pride and humiliation: Flender’s anger is fueled not only by loyalty to Ma Hongjun but also by his lingering humiliation from Fang Fan’s earlier victory over Zhao Wuji.

Character Interactions

• Flender and Zhao Wuji rally around Ma Hongjun and promise retaliation, while Li Yusong silently recognizes the absurdity of Shrek’s behavior.
• Ma Hongjun manipulates Flender and Zhao Wuji by presenting a distorted version of events.
• Flender confronts Zhu Zhuqing, Ning Rongrong, and Fang Fan without allowing them to explain themselves.
• Ning Rongrong challenges Flender directly, while Zhu Zhuqing coldly confirms that she defeated Ma Hongjun.
• Fang Fan insults Flender by calling him a “money-grubber,” provoking an emotional reaction and escalating the confrontation.
• The chapter closes with Fang Fan and Flender on the verge of a decisive clash: Flender relies on overwhelming Soul Power, while Fang Fan prepares to answer with a barely visible but terrifying sword strike.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Fan confronts Flender after Flender attempts to stop him and the two girls from leaving.
• Fang Fan releases an almost invisible but overwhelmingly powerful Sword Intent. Flender realizes it is not merely attacking his body or defenses, but severing the connection between his life and the world.
• The sword strike destroys Flender’s Soul Power shield and cleanly severs his left arm, while its residual force continues onward:
  • It splits the clouds above.
  • It carves a massive scar into the ground.
  • It cuts a distant mountain in half.
  • Its trajectory points toward the Star Dou Forest, where Xiao Wu has fled.
• Zhao Wuji, Ma Hongjun, and Li Yusong witness the destruction and rush to find Flender. They discover him collapsed, injured, and mentally stunned.
• Li Yusong bandages Flender while Zhao Wuji recognizes Fang Fan, Zhu Zhuqing, and Ning Rongrong as the “three little monsters” who left Shrek Academy.
• Flender realizes that the conflict began because Ma Hongjun harassed Zhu Zhuqing and he foolishly defended Ma Hongjun. He understands that his attempt to force the trio to remain at Shrek has completely failed.
• Ma Hongjun calls for revenge from a rice field, but Flender, Zhao Wuji, and Li Yusong deliberately ignore him.

Character Developments

• Fang Fan: Demonstrates an extraordinary level of sword mastery far beyond ordinary Soul Power. His casual attitude contrasts sharply with the devastating scale of his attack, establishing him as a terrifyingly powerful figure.
• Flender: Suffers the loss of an arm and is left psychologically shaken. He recognizes his own arrogance and the consequences of Shrek’s “a Soul Master who doesn’t cause trouble isn’t a good Soul Master” philosophy.
• Zhao Wuji: His confidence collapses when he sees the mountain split apart. He becomes visibly fearful and avoids provoking Fang Fan further.
• Li Yusong: Reacts with shock but remains practical, immediately treating Flender’s wound. He also recognizes that the confrontation was caused by a serious misunderstanding.
• Ma Hongjun: His harassment of Zhu Zhuqing triggers the entire conflict. Even after being humiliated and injured, he still demands revenge, though everyone ignores him.
• Zhu Zhuqing: Witnesses the true extent of Fang Fan’s strength and becomes deeply shocked and impressed. Her previous understanding of him as merely powerful is replaced by recognition that his abilities are on an entirely different level.
• Ning Rongrong: Compares Fang Fan’s sword strike with the techniques of her grandfather, Sword Douluo. She concludes that Fang Fan’s superiority lies not simply in destructive power, but in the profound realm of swordsmanship behind it.

Significant Themes

• The consequences of arrogance and provocation: Flender’s attempt to defend Ma Hongjun and force Fang Fan’s group to stay at Shrek results in catastrophic consequences.
• Power beyond conventional measures: Fang Fan’s Sword Intent does not rely on overwhelming Soul Power or physical force; its terrifying strength comes from a higher understanding of swordsmanship.
• Misjudgment: Flender and Ma Hongjun underestimate Fang Fan and the girls, mistaking them for ordinary young Soul Masters.
• The danger of encouraging recklessness: Shrek’s motto celebrates causing trouble, but the chapter emphasizes that recklessness without the strength to handle its consequences leads to disaster.
• Humility before overwhelming strength: The Shrek teachers are forced to abandon pride and resistance after witnessing Fang Fan’s effortless dominance.

Important Character Interactions

• Fang Fan’s confrontation with Flender is one-sided: Flender cannot escape or defend himself, while Fang Fan remains casual and seemingly unconcerned.
• Zhao Wuji and Li Yusong treat Flender’s injury while silently recognizing that the conflict was entirely avoidable.
• Flender mentally blames Ma Hongjun for starting the incident but also acknowledges his own poor judgment.
• Zhu Zhuqing and Ning Rongrong both observe Fang Fan’s power from different perspectives: Zhu Zhuqing is stunned by his destructive ability, while Ning Rongrong analyzes the deeper sword realm behind it.
• The chapter ends with Fang Fan’s strike continuing toward the Star Dou Forest, foreshadowing its possible connection to Xiao Wu and the next major conflict.