Chapter Summaries

Jiang Ming strengthened Great Shang’s government and summoned more talented officials before traveling to the Eastern Sea Coast to investigate a clash between dragons and a mysterious Taoist. He suspected Taoist Randeng had seized a Sea-Calming Pearl and considered the future rise of the Western Teachings.

• Jiang Ming spent five years arranging Great Shang’s administration, expanding the Embroidered Uniform Guard, abolishing eunuchs, and improving palace security.
• Jiang Ming summoned Wang Meng, Pang Tong, and Zhou Yu to serve Great Shang.
• After receiving word of a battle near the Eastern Sea, Jiang Ming left a clone to watch over Chaoge City and went to investigate.
• Jiang Ming traced the battle and saw three old Daluo Golden Immortal dragons fight a black-robed Taoist, who drove them back and seized a pearl.
• Jiang Ming suspected the Taoist was Taoist Randeng and connected the stolen Sea-Calming Pearl to Randeng’s later pursuit of Zhao Gongming’s Twenty-Four Sea-Calming Pearls.

Jiang Ming tracked Taoist Randeng to the Eastern Victory Divine Continent and found Taoist Duobao, Xiao Sheng, and Cao Bao gathered over a destined treasure. Recognizing the Treasure-Seizing Coins and the danger awaiting Xiao Sheng and Cao Bao, Jiang Ming considered taking the coins and changing their fate.

• Jiang Ming sent Zhang Liang and five powerful guards to negotiate with the Dragon Clan, then set out to find Zhao Gongming.
• Jiang Ming recalled his former life as Red Cloud Ancestor and resolved to seek revenge on Minghe Ancestor and Kun Peng for his past death and stolen treasure.
• Jiang Ming followed Taoist Randeng's traces to the Eastern Victory Divine Continent, where he sensed a treasure destined for him.
• Jiang Ming discovered Taoist Duobao, Taoist Randeng, Xiao Sheng, and Cao Bao arguing over the treasure.
• Jiang Ming recognized Xiao Sheng and Cao Bao as future victims of Zhao Gongming and realized he might obtain their Treasure-Seizing Coins.

Jiang Ming watched Taoist Duobao and Daoist Randeng contend over the Treasure-Seizing Coins, while reflecting on the long-standing hostility between the Interception Sect and Chan Sect. Taoist Duobao drew out the treasure and gave it to Jiang Ming, who vanished before the others could learn more about him.

• Jiang Ming concluded that Taoist Duobao would never let Daoist Randeng obtain the treasure because of their sects’ long-standing grievances.
• Daoist Randeng invoked his senior status, but Taoist Duobao rejected his appeal and suggested calling Sect Master Tongtian.
• Jiang Ming asked Xiao Sheng and Cao Bao to yield the treasure, and they hesitated over the danger of claiming it.
• Taoist Duobao used his innate ability to draw out the supreme-grade innate spirit treasure and placed it in Jiang Ming’s hand.
• Jiang Ming declared the treasure had been fated to be his, then escaped with Earth-Shrinking Golden Light, leaving the others unable to examine his karma or fate.

Jiang Ming escaped with the Treasure-Seizing Coins and went searching for Zhao Gongming, hoping to be introduced to the Three Xiao Sisters. He found Zhao Gongming on the Eastern Sea shore, where the righteous Daoist had just knocked out two Western Teachings Buddhas.

• Jiang Ming took the Treasure-Seizing Coins from Taoist Randeng and escaped using Earth-Shrinking Golden Light.
• Taoist Randeng blamed Taoist Duobao for ruining his opportunity, threatened him, and left.
• Jiang Ming put the coins in his Inner Heaven and Earth and began searching for Zhao Gongming.
• The chapter explained that Zhao Gongming opposed the Western Teachings for targeting the Three Xiao Sisters and forcibly converting Loose Immortals.
• Jiang Ming found Zhao Gongming on the Eastern Sea shore after Zhao had knocked two Daluo Golden Immortal Buddhas unconscious with his Nine-Section Golden Whip.

Chapter Summary: Emperor’s New Clothes, Ugly Truth Exposed

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Gongming ambushes two Western Buddhist monks—both Perfected Daluo Golden Immortals—and knocks them unconscious.
• Jiang Ming arrives and encourages Zhao Gongming to let him loot the unconscious monks. Using the Flying Dragon Cloud-Seizing Hand, Jiang Ming strips them of every treasure they possess.
• To conceal the robbery and protect Zhao Gongming from suspicion, Jiang Ming uses his divine ability, “Passing Falsehood for Truth: Emperor’s New Clothes.” The spell makes the monks appear fully clothed to themselves, despite actually being left in only their underwear.
• Jiang Ming and Zhao Gongming hide in the Void and wait for the monks to awaken. After a storm exposes their physical discomfort, the monks assume they were ambushed but remain unaware that their possessions—and clothing—are gone.
• One monk angrily vows revenge against the unknown attacker. The other reveals that Western Teaching experts have repeatedly suffered similar humiliations and implies that the culprit may be connected to the Interception Sect, particularly a powerful “great fool” whom they dare not offend.
• The monks proceed to the Eastern Sea Dragon Palace to recruit the Dragon Clan into the Western Teachings.
• At the palace, the monks arrogantly promise the Dragon Clan future merit and protection from the Sea Eye’s karmic disaster in exchange for submission.
• Because of Jiang Ming’s spell, the monks unknowingly appear nearly naked before Ao Guang and the Dragon Clan while continuing to act like dignified, enlightened Buddhist masters.
• Ao Guang rejects their offer, recognizing both the Western Teachings’ coercive intentions and the absurdity of the monks’ condition. The monks leave angrily, threatening that the Dragon Clan will regret refusing.

Character Developments

• Jiang Ming is portrayed as mischievous, resourceful, and exceptionally skilled at theft and deception. He not only robs the monks but also turns their humiliation into a long-term disguise that allows them to embarrass themselves publicly.
• Zhao Gongming is shown as bold and hostile toward the Western Teachings, but also increasingly astonished by Jiang Ming’s methods. His amusement turns to discomfort when the monks indirectly insult him by calling him a fool.
• The two Buddhist monks are revealed to be arrogant and oblivious. Even while robbed and publicly exposed, they maintain their self-important manner and fail to perceive the truth.
• Ao Guang demonstrates political caution and independence. Though the Dragon Clan is weakened, he refuses to sacrifice its dignity and freedom by joining the Western Teachings.
• The Dragon Clan remains distrustful of Buddhism and resists the monks’ promises of protection and prosperity.

Significant Themes

• Appearance versus reality: The monks believe they are clothed and dignified, while everyone else sees their humiliation. The spell literalizes the chapter’s title and mocks false religious authority.
• Arrogance and hypocrisy: The monks preach superiority and salvation while exploiting the Dragon Clan’s weakness and remaining blind to their own ridiculous state.
• Power and coercion: The Western Teachings disguise recruitment and domination as benevolent assistance, offering “merit” while threatening the Dragon Clan with its impending crisis.
• Cunning versus authority: Jiang Ming’s cleverness allows him to outmaneuver powerful Buddhist figures without confronting them directly.
• Decline and survival: The Dragon Clan’s weakened position and the danger of the Sea Eye highlight the struggles of an old power trying to preserve its independence.

Important Character Interactions

• Jiang Ming and Zhao Gongming: They cooperate in robbing the monks, though Jiang Ming’s audacity repeatedly surprises Zhao Gongming. Jiang Ming also deliberately protects Zhao by creating false evidence.
• The monks and Jiang Ming: The monks become victims of Jiang Ming’s theft and illusion without realizing it, while Jiang Ming silently observes and mocks them.
• The monks and Ao Guang: The monks attempt to pressure Ao Guang into joining the Western Teachings, but Ao Guang rejects their offer and exposes their lack of leverage.
• The monks and the Dragon Clan: Their condescending attitude deepens the Dragon Clan’s hostility, especially as they treat the declining clan as something to be controlled rather than respected.

Chapter Summary: Taiyi Zhenren, the Chatterbox

Key Plot Points and Events

• After their humiliating defeat at the Eastern Sea, the two Western Teaching Buddhas refuse to leave completely. They hide nearby, intending to observe the situation and seek another opportunity to act.
• At Chentang Pass, Li Jing’s wife finally gives birth to Nezha after an unusually long pregnancy. Because King Zhou had already proclaimed the child a divine being destined to protect Great Shang, Li Jing’s family receives royal favor and rewards.
• Nezha’s birth is marked by golden light shooting into the heavens, attracting the attention of Jiang Ming, Zhao Gongming, Taiyi Zhenren, and the two hidden Buddhas.
• Jiang Ming instantly transports himself and Zhao Gongming to the Li residence using the Earth-Shrinking Golden Light. He secretly manipulates fate and causality so that Taiyi Zhenren and the two Buddhas encounter one another before reaching the child.
• Jiang Ming and Zhao Gongming meet Li Jing and present themselves as possible mentors for the newborn. Li Jing, aware of Zhao Gongming’s status as a major Interception Sect figure, privately favors allowing his son to join that sect.
• Jiang Ming chooses not to compete for Nezha directly and is willing to let Zhao Gongming accept him as a disciple, hoping to gain Zhao Gongming’s gratitude and create a future connection.
• Meanwhile, Taiyi Zhenren and the two Buddhas exchange insults. The Buddhas mock Taiyi’s reputation as the “Chatterbox,” provoking him into attacking them.
• Taiyi uses the Heaven-Earth Ring—originally created by Yuanshi Tianzun for Nezha—to strike both Buddhas. Their magic treasures are also missing, leaving them unable to defend themselves.
• His attacks destroy the final garments concealing the Buddhas’ bodies, dispelling the Emperor’s New Clothes technique and leaving them naked, injured, and humiliated.

Character Developments

• Jiang Ming demonstrates superior mobility and increasingly sophisticated control over fate and causality. He acts strategically rather than greedily, willingly yielding Nezha to Zhao Gongming in exchange for a future favor.
• Zhao Gongming is impressed by Jiang Ming’s escape technique and becomes interested in taking Nezha as his first disciple. His status and reputation also influence Li Jing’s preference.
• Li Jing changes from initially viewing Nezha as an embarrassing abnormality to recognizing him as a divinely favored child. His attitude is shaped heavily by King Zhou’s approval and rewards.
• Taiyi Zhenren is shown to be hot-tempered and easily provoked, fully living up to his nickname. His anger over the Buddhas’ mockery drives him into a brutal but comedic retaliation.
• The two Buddhas remain arrogant and vengeful after their earlier defeat. Their attempts to provoke Taiyi backfire, resulting in physical injury, the loss of their treasures, and public humiliation.
• Nezha has not yet acted directly, but his extraordinary birth establishes him as a powerful and highly sought-after figure.

Significant Themes

• Destiny and reincarnation: Nezha’s miraculous birth and heavenly signs suggest that his fate is already tied to major conflicts among the Three Sects and Western Teachings.
• Strategic alliances: Jiang Ming’s willingness to let Zhao Gongming take Nezha illustrates the importance of favors, relationships, and long-term planning.
• Sect rivalry: The competition among the Interception Sect, Chan Sect, Human Sect, and Western Teachings is evident in the scramble to claim Nezha as a disciple.
• Pride and humiliation: The Buddhas’ arrogance and Taiyi’s temper turn a potentially strategic encounter into a farcical personal conflict.
• Power and reputation: Li Jing’s decisions are influenced by the prestige of the sects and immortals involved, while royal recognition transforms Nezha’s birth into a politically important event.

Character Interactions

• Jiang Ming and Zhao Gongming: Jiang Ming transports Zhao to Chentang Pass and subtly allows him the opportunity to claim Nezha, strengthening their relationship.
• Jiang Ming and Li Jing: Jiang Ming presents himself as a possible immortal mentor and introduces the child’s extraordinary potential.
• Zhao Gongming and Li Jing: Li Jing recognizes Zhao Gongming’s importance within the Interception Sect and hopes Nezha might study under him.
• Taiyi Zhenren and the Buddhas: Their mutual hostility escalates from verbal insults into a physical confrontation, ending with Taiyi humiliating and defeating both Buddhas.
• The Buddhas and Jiang Ming: Although they do not directly confront him in this chapter, they sense that the person responsible for their earlier defeat is nearby, adding tension to their continued presence at Chentang Pass.

Chapter Summary: The Dawn of the Age of Bullets and Cannon Fire

Key Plot Points and Events

• Two Western Teachings Buddhas discover that their Spirit Treasures have disappeared and that Taiyi Zhenren has torn off and humiliated them. They accuse him of stealing from them, but Taiyi denies everything.
• Knowing they cannot defeat Taiyi, the Buddhas flee, intending to report the incident to their sect leaders. Taiyi curses them and vows to seek revenge for being called “Blabbermouth.”
• Taiyi arrives at Chentang Pass expecting to take Nezha as his disciple, based on Yuanshi Tianzun’s claim that Nezha was destined for him. Instead, he learns that Zhao Gongming has already accepted Nezha.
• Lady Yin has also been taken to Mount Emei, where she may cultivate and care for Nezha. Jiang Ming arranged her relocation and became Nezha’s second master.
• Jiang Ming gave Nezha two Acquired Spirit Treasures: a red bellyband and the Heaven-Earth Ring bracelet.
• Taiyi is shocked and frustrated but does not dare challenge Zhao Gongming, a powerful Quasi-Saint with enormous influence and twenty-four Sea-Calming Pearls. He returns to question Yuanshi Tianzun.
• Jiang Ming accompanies Zhao Gongming back to Mount Emei to build a relationship with him and eventually connect with the Three Cloud Fairies. His larger goal is to recruit powerful cultivators for Great Shang.
• Jiang Ming teaches Lady Yin cultivation methods and warns her that Nezha must be raised carefully, since poor guidance could lead him to cause a great disaster. He also teaches breathing techniques to Lady Yin’s two maidservants.
• Over the next three years, many Interception Sect disciples visit Mount Emei to see Nezha. Taiyi has spread the story that Zhao Gongming stole his destined disciple.
• The Saints conclude that the Western Buddhas accidentally disrupted Taiyi’s opportunity, but the rising Karmic Tribulation prevents them from seeing the full truth of the matter.
• Nezha’s extraordinary nature becomes apparent: after being born from an egg and spending three years in the womb, he already possessed an Earth Immortal body, and after another three years he reached the Early Heavenly Immortal realm.
• During the same period, Jiang Ming advances to the Late Daluo Golden Immortal realm, while Great Shang completes the first stage of its Five-Year Plan.
• Steam engines, steel production, machine tools, boilers, electricity, utility poles, guns, and cannons are introduced. Chaoge becomes the center of an emerging technological revolution.
• Jiang Ming abolishes slavery and begins developing a feudal system. A 100,000-man Imperial Guard is equipped with modern rifles, giving ordinary soldiers the power to threaten even Earth Immortals.
• The chapter ends by previewing Jiang Ming’s future Mecha Corps: millions of Heavenly Immortal-level mechas capable of battling heavenly armies and exterminating demons.

Character Developments

• Taiyi Zhenren becomes increasingly humiliated and resentful after losing Nezha and being mocked as “Blabbermouth.” His confidence is weakened because he cannot challenge Zhao Gongming directly.
• Jiang Ming develops from a cultivator and strategist into both Nezha’s mentor and the architect of Great Shang’s technological and political transformation. He takes a careful, long-term approach to cultivating allies and preparing for future conflict.
• Zhao Gongming strengthens his relationship with Jiang Ming by bringing him to Mount Emei. His decision to accept Nezha as a disciple places him at the center of a dispute with Taiyi and the Chan Sect.
• Nezha is established as an exceptionally gifted child with immense innate potential, advancing rapidly despite his young age.
• Lady Yin begins a new life as a cultivator and guardian of Nezha. She is entrusted with helping shape his character and prevent future catastrophe.
• Yuanshi Tianzun is unable to resolve the dispute because the Karmic Tribulation has obscured heavenly secrets, leaving Taiyi without a clear explanation or remedy.

Significant Themes

• Fate versus intervention: Although Nezha was supposedly destined to become Taiyi’s disciple, Jiang Ming and Zhao Gongming alter the expected course of events.
• Power and influence: Taiyi cannot simply reclaim Nezha because Zhao Gongming’s strength, reputation, and network of allies make confrontation dangerous.
• Technology challenging cultivation: Guns, artillery, and future mechas allow ordinary humans to threaten immortals, weakening the traditional monopoly of cultivators over violence and power.
• Preparation and long-term strategy: Jiang Ming focuses on building alliances, educating Nezha, developing Great Shang, and preparing for the coming tribulation rather than reacting to immediate threats.
• The value of ordinary people: By abolishing slavery and arming common soldiers, Jiang Ming elevates humanity’s role in a world where mortals are usually considered insignificant.
• The coming age of warfare: The chapter marks the transition from an era dominated by spiritual treasures and personal cultivation to one shaped by mass-produced weapons, industrial power, and organized armies.

Important Character Interactions

• Taiyi and the two Western Buddhas clash over the missing Spirit Treasures, trading accusations and insults before the Buddhas flee.
• Taiyi confronts Li Jing and learns that Nezha has already been claimed by Zhao Gongming and Jiang Ming.
• Jiang Ming instructs Lady Yin on cultivation and parenting, emphasizing the danger of Nezha’s unchecked development.
• Jiang Ming and Zhao Gongming grow closer as friends and allies, forming the basis for Jiang Ming’s future efforts to recruit powerful Interception Sect figures.
• Interception Sect disciples visit Mount Emei out of curiosity and are astonished by Nezha’s extraordinary cultivation.
• Taiyi’s complaints spread the dispute throughout the cultivation world, increasing interest in Nezha and deepening tensions between the major sects.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• After three years, Jiang Ming’s Great Shang has accumulated over 100,000 Dynastic Fortune Points, proving that the kingdom’s fortune and strength have continued to grow.
• His reforms have created tension with some feudal lords, especially the Western Marquis, whose family represents the future Zhou rebellion. Jiang Ming deliberately complicates their succession by naming Bo Yikao heir and making Su Daji his consort, hoping to provoke a reaction from the Western Marquis and Ji Fa.
• Nezha returns to ask Jiang Ming for the promised reward after mastering a new escape technique. Jiang gives him the Wind-Fire Wheels, an Acquired Spirit Treasure made from Azure Luan and Fire Phoenix Immortal Metals. The wheels allow extraordinary speed, nearly comparable to Sun Wukong’s Somersault Cloud.
• While testing them, Nezha reaches the Eastern Sea and is provoked by shrimp soldiers and crab generals, recreating the circumstances of his original karmic disaster with Ao Bing.
• Nezha is about to attack, but his Heart-Protecting Jade cracks, warning him of danger. He abandons the confrontation and returns to Jiang Ming.
• Jiang explains the nature of Karmic Tribulations, describing how even powerful Immortals, Gods, Daluo Golden Immortals, and Quasi-Saints can perish during major calamities.
• Frightened and newly cautious, Nezha seeks out Zhao Gongming—but Zhao instead takes him back to the Eastern Sea to cause trouble for the Dragon Clan.
• Jiang Ming initially considers intervening but decides to let Zhao Gongming suffer the consequences. He intends to use the incident, followed by Kong Xuan’s intervention, to force the Dragon Clan to join Great Shang as guardian totems.
• The chapter ends by outlining Jiang Ming’s broader plan: unite humanity and nature, establish a network of Twelve Zodiac totems, and bring much of the Demon Race under Great Shang’s influence.

2. Character Developments

• Jiang Ming: Continues consolidating Great Shang’s political power and manipulating future historical events. He acts as both Nezha’s strict mentor and a strategist working toward the kingdom’s expansion and supernatural alliances.
• Nezha: Gains major strength and new treasures, but also learns restraint. Unlike his original fate, he recognizes the danger of attacking the Dragon Clan and escapes before killing anyone. His fear of Jiang Ming’s punishments has made him disciplined, though his later dependence on Zhao Gongming still threatens to lead him astray.
• Zhao Gongming: Serves as Nezha’s more conventional master, but his influence is reckless. Rather than teaching caution, he encourages Nezha to confront the Dragon Clan, reinforcing Jiang Ming’s concern that Zhao may corrupt the boy’s character.
• Kong Xuan: Has become closely allied with Jiang Ming and is now Great Shang’s official totem. His loyalty and filial devotion to Origin Phoenix have earned him increased fortune and merit, positioning him to intervene in the Dragon Clan crisis.
• Origin Phoenix and the Dragon Clan: Origin Phoenix benefits from Kong Xuan’s care, while the Dragon Clan faces increasing pressure to negotiate with Great Shang and accept subordination as a guardian power.
• The Western Marquis’ family: Jiang Ming’s succession decree places Bo Yikao, Ji Fa, and Su Daji in a potentially dangerous political conflict, foreshadowing future struggles connected to the Zhou rebellion.

3. Significant Themes

• Fate versus intervention: Jiang Ming deliberately alters established events, attempting to prevent Nezha’s original tragedy and reshape the future rebellion of Zhou.
• Karmic consequences: Powerful beings cannot escape destiny or the consequences of their actions. Even the strongest immortals remain vulnerable during great calamities.
• Discipline and moral education: Nezha is trained through rewards, fear, and simulated visions of his possible future. Jiang Ming seeks to prevent him from becoming violent by forcing him to confront the consequences of his choices.
• Political consolidation: Great Shang’s growth depends not only on military power but also on controlling feudal lords, supernatural clans, demons, and ancient divine races.
• Harmony between humanity and nature: Jiang Ming aims to incorporate the Dragon Clan, Demon Race, and other powerful beings into Great Shang, creating mutual benefit between human civilization and the natural world.
• The contrast between good and bad mentorship: Lady Yin provides affection, Jiang Ming provides strict guidance, and Zhao Gongming provides a more dangerous, confrontational influence.

4. Character Interactions

• Jiang Ming and Nezha: Their relationship combines affection, fear, discipline, and reward. Nezha admires Jiang Ming’s treasures and teachings but is terrified of his punishments and trials.
• Nezha and Zhao Gongming: Nezha turns to Zhao after being frightened by the dangers of karmic tribulation. Zhao responds by leading him back into conflict, highlighting his irresponsible influence.
• Jiang Ming and the Western Marquis’ family: Jiang Ming uses political appointments to pressure the Western Marquis and test whether the family will preserve its succession or begin the internal conflict that may produce the future Zhou rebellion.
• Jiang Ming and Kong Xuan: Their relationship has grown stronger. Jiang trusts Kong Xuan to act on Great Shang’s behalf, particularly in handling the Dragon Clan.
• Kong Xuan and Origin Phoenix: Kong Xuan regularly visits his mother and uses merit and dynastic fortune to ease her suffering, demonstrating his filial nature.
• Great Shang and the Dragon Clan: Their negotiations are at a decisive stage. The conflict involving Nezha and Zhao Gongming is intended to push the Dragon Clan into becoming one of Great Shang’s guardian totems.

Summary

• Zhao Gongming provokes the Eastern Sea Dragon Clan: Zhao Gongming arrives at the Eastern Sea Dragon Palace with Little Nezha, intending to defend his disciple and exploit the Dragon Clan’s weakened position. Without investigating the original dispute, he accuses East Sea Dragon King Ao Guang of allowing his subordinates to harm Nezha and releases the twenty-four Sea-Calming Pearls. Their power freezes and parts the sea, publicly humiliating the Dragon Clan.
• Outside factions watch for opportunities: The Buddhist School secretly observes the confrontation, hoping to use Zhao Gongming’s pressure to force the Eastern Sea Dragon Clan into submission. However, the two Buddhas monitoring the scene fear that Zhao Gongming is too powerful and hostile toward the Western Teachings to confront directly. Randeng Taoist of the Chan Sect also watches, driven by his long-standing desire to obtain the Sea-Calming Pearls.
• The significance of the Sea-Calming Pearls is explained: The pearls originally belonged to the Ancestral Dragon and once helped stabilize the Four Seas. Randeng believes they are connected to his cultivation and future path to the Dao. The narrative foreshadows that, in another possible future, he would become Dipankara Buddha and transform the pearls into the Twenty-Four Heavens, achieving immense status within Buddhism. Zhao Gongming, by contrast, has not yet unlocked their full potential.
• Jiang Ming and Nezha recognize Zhao’s arrogance: Jiang Ming finds Zhao’s behavior embarrassingly overbearing, while Nezha worries that his senior master resembles a villain and may soon attract punishment from a stronger figure. Although Nezha understands that Zhao is acting impulsively, he can only observe.
• The Dragon Clan seeks an alliance with Great Shang: Ao Guang, overwhelmed by Zhao’s intimidation, sends for Kong Xuan, a distinguished figure from Great Shang. The Dragon King offers to make the Eastern Sea Dragon Clan Great Shang’s totemic divine beast if Kong Xuan can protect them. Such an alliance would strengthen Great Shang’s Human Dao and dynastic fortune while helping the Dragon Clan survive the coming calamity.
• Kong Xuan’s personal motives emerge: Kong Xuan is eager to secure the alliance because the resulting Merit and fortune could ease the suffering of his mother, Origin Phoenix. He is also acting on Jiang Ming’s instruction to teach Zhao Gongming humility. Though Kong Xuan has little experience fighting famous experts, Jiang Ming has assured him that his Five-Colored Divine Light makes him nearly invincible beneath the Saints.
• Kong Xuan confronts Zhao Gongming: Kong Xuan steps forward and warns Zhao not to act arrogantly or allow someone else to manipulate him into attacking the Dragon Clan. He identifies himself as a marquis of Great Shang rather than a member of the Dragon Clan and condemns Zhao for refusing to distinguish right from wrong before using the Sea-Calming Pearls to suppress the sea and palace. His speech establishes him as calm, principled, politically aware, and willing to defend the Dragon Clan.

Character Developments and Interactions

• Zhao Gongming: Revealed as powerful but impulsive, prideful, and opportunistic. He uses Nezha’s injury as justification for demanding compensation and showing off, rather than seeking justice.
• Little Nezha: More perceptive and restrained than his senior master. He recognizes Zhao’s recklessness and feels embarrassed by it, while remaining unable to intervene.
• Ao Guang: Becomes anxious and politically pragmatic, quickly seeking Great Shang’s protection rather than confronting Zhao directly.
• Kong Xuan: Takes on the role of mediator and defender. His desire to aid Origin Phoenix combines with his responsibility to Great Shang, leading him to challenge Zhao through reason before any battle begins.
• Jiang Ming: Though absent from the confrontation, he influences events by sending Kong Xuan to humble Zhao and by having cultivated Nezha.
• Randeng Taoist and the Buddhist School: Their secret observation reveals that the conflict is part of a larger struggle over the Dragon Clan, the Sea-Calming Pearls, and future power among the major religious factions.

Major Themes

• Power and arrogance: Zhao’s strength gives him confidence, but his misuse of power exposes the danger of acting without justice or restraint.
• Political alliance and strategic influence: The Dragon Clan’s possible alliance with Great Shang demonstrates how personal conflicts can affect the balance of power among entire factions.
• Hidden ambitions: Multiple parties view the Dragon Clan and the Sea-Calming Pearls as opportunities to advance their cultivation, influence, or future status.
• Fate and alternate possibilities: Randeng’s potential future as Dipankara Buddha shows how the chapter connects present events to unrealized destinies.
• Justice versus opportunism: Kong Xuan insists on investigating the truth, contrasting with Zhao’s desire to exploit the situation for prestige and treasure.

Kong Xuan challenged Zhao Gongming to a fair contest and defeated him by taking his treasures and mount with the Five-Colored Divine Light. Zhao Gongming accepted his loss and agreed to leave the Dragon Clan and Great Shang alone.

• Zhao Gongming mocked Kong Xuan for serving a Human Race dynasty, while Nezha warned him that Kong Xuan might be more powerful than he appeared.
• Kong Xuan proposed a contest with the Dragon Palace’s treasures as stakes, and Zhao Gongming accepted confidently.
• Zhao Gongming brought out his treasures, but Kong Xuan’s Five-Colored Divine Light swept them and his Black Tiger King away.
• Taoist Randeng and the two Buddhas watched Kong Xuan’s technique and recalled the ancient divine powers of Origin Phoenix, Ancestral Dragon, and Primordial Qilin.
• Kong Xuan asked Zhao Gongming to concede, and Zhao Gongming admitted defeat and promised not to trouble the Dragon Clan or Great Shang again.
• Kong Xuan returned Zhao Gongming’s treasures and mount unharmed.

Chapter Summary: Breaking the Shackles of a Dynasty’s Fate Pattern

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Gongming realizes that Great Shang is far more extraordinary than an ordinary Human Race dynasty, especially because it is protected by the powerful Quasi-Saint Kong Xuan.
• Kong Xuan invites Zhao Gongming to join Great Shang as a regional lord, but Zhao refuses. He values his freedom and fears that involvement in worldly affairs would bring karmic burdens and inner demons.
• Jiang Ming explains his long-term plan to transform Great Shang into a fortune dynasty where cultivation can be granted or removed through imperial authority, making the dynasty attractive to powerful cultivators.
• Jiang Ming’s avatar officially declares the Dragon Clan one of Great Shang’s guardian divine beasts and totems. This causes Great Shang’s National Fortune and Dynastic Fortune to surge.
• The National Fortune Shackles that had limited Great Shang’s existence to twenty-two years are broken. Its predicted lifespan rises to thirty years, proving that its fate can be changed.
• Jiang Ming looks forward to further reforms, including electricity, technology, firearms, cannons, and the integration of technological advances with formations and immortal cultivation.
• Jiang Ming’s cultivation rises directly to the Perfected Daluo Golden Immortal Realm, while his understanding of the Emperor’s Great Dao deepens through the support of Human Dao merit and fortune.
• The Dragon Clan also benefits greatly. Its cultivation restrictions loosen, allowing purer-blooded dragons to break through to the Golden Immortal Realm more easily.
• Kong Xuan, having gained victory and status for the Dragon Clan, asks to leave Great Shang temporarily to visit Origin Phoenix.
• Randeng Taoist is deeply shaken by Kong Xuan’s overwhelming strength and recognizes that he is no match for either Kong Xuan or Zhao Gongming.
• Jiang Ming anticipates that Zhao Gongming, after suffering defeat, will eventually go to Three Immortals Island to seek comfort from Yunxiao, Bixiao, and Qiongxiao.
• Zhao Gongming indeed enters seclusion after returning, but emerges after only a year, suggesting that his anger and impulsive nature remain largely unchanged.

Character Developments

• Jiang Ming becomes increasingly confident in his ability to rewrite Great Shang’s destiny. His reforms are shown to have concrete effects on both the dynasty’s fortune and his own cultivation.
• Zhao Gongming remains proud, freedom-loving, and emotionally volatile. He rejects political involvement but is unable to fully suppress his frustration after defeat, foreshadowing future conflict.
• Kong Xuan establishes himself as an exceptionally powerful Quasi-Saint and a major pillar of Great Shang. His loyalty to his mother, Origin Phoenix, is also emphasized.
• The Dragon Clan shifts from a declining race burdened by bloodline restrictions to a protected faction with renewed prospects for advancement.
• Randeng Taoist is humbled by Kong Xuan’s strength and becomes more aware of the overwhelming power gathered around Great Shang.
• Yunxiao is highlighted as the strongest of the Three Xiao Sisters, possessing the powerful Primordial Golden Bushel and superior innate potential.

Significant Themes

• Defying predetermined fate: Great Shang’s National Fortune Shackles symbolize an apparently fixed destiny, but Jiang Ming proves that reform and strategic alliances can alter it.
• The power of merit and fortune: Human Dao fortune strengthens both Jiang Ming and the dynasty, demonstrating how political authority and cultivation are interconnected.
• Technology combined with cultivation: Jiang Ming’s vision joins modern technology with immortal techniques, presenting practicality and innovation as tools for national advancement.
• Freedom versus responsibility: Zhao Gongming’s refusal to join Great Shang reflects the tension between personal independence and participation in larger historical movements.
• Decline of the Primordial Wilderness: The discussion of shattered treasures and weakened ancient powers emphasizes that the current era is far inferior to the age of Pangu and the Chaos God-Demons.
• Race and bloodline renewal: Great Shang’s protection gives the Dragon Clan a chance to overcome the restrictions and decline imposed by its bloodline and past calamities.

Character Interactions

• Kong Xuan and Zhao Gongming: Kong Xuan respectfully invites Zhao to serve Great Shang, but Zhao firmly refuses, prioritizing freedom and cultivation.
• Jiang Ming and Zhao Gongming: Jiang Ming understands Zhao’s decision but privately views him as emotionally predictable, expecting him to seek refuge with the Three Xiao Sisters after his defeat.
• Jiang Ming and Kong Xuan: Jiang Ming’s elevation of the Dragon Clan benefits Kong Xuan’s family and race, prompting Kong Xuan to request leave to visit Origin Phoenix.
• Jiang Ming and the Dragon Clan: By naming the Dragon Clan a guardian divine beast and totem of Great Shang, Jiang Ming creates a mutually beneficial alliance that strengthens both sides.
• Randeng Taoist and Kong Xuan: Their conflict ends with Randeng suffering a crushing defeat, forcing him to acknowledge Kong Xuan’s superior combat power.
• Zhao Gongming and the Three Xiao Sisters: Though they do not directly interact in the chapter, Zhao’s expected visit to Yunxiao, Bixiao, and Qiongxiao foreshadows their important involvement in the coming conflict.

After Nezha became a Golden Immortal, Jiang Ming took Yang Jian and Lei Zhenzi as disciples and traveled with Zhao Gongming to Three Immortals Island. The group entered the secluded island, where Jiang Ming was about to meet Zhao Gongming’s sworn sisters, the Three Xiao Sisters.

• Nezha completed his Golden Immortal Tribulation after Jiang Ming taught him four powerful divine abilities and gave him a Sky-Mixing Silk.
• Jiang Ming found Yang Jian and took him as a disciple, while he stole the infant Lei Zhenzi from Yun Zhongzi after discovering the Chan Sect had claimed him.
• Zhao Gongming invited Jiang Ming and Nezha to Three Immortals Island to meet the Three Xiao Sisters and discuss formally swearing bonds with them.
• Zhao Gongming presented a token, opened a cloud path through the sea mist, and led Jiang Ming and Nezha onto Three Immortals Island.

Chapter Summary:

Yunxiao

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jiang Ming and his group arrive at Three Immortals Island, where they meet Yunxiao, one of the Three Realms’ most powerful yet understated immortals.
• Jiang Ming is immediately struck by Yunxiao’s extraordinary beauty, calm bearing, and gentle temperament. He also notices that his Fate Pattern has manifested Red Cords around Yunxiao, Qiongxiao, and Bixiao, suggesting a destined connection.
• Yunxiao experiences an inexplicable sense of familiarity and closeness toward Jiang Ming.
• Zhao Gongming arrives at the island, prompting Yunxiao to question why he has returned after previously swearing never to come back. Her willingness to speak with him indicates that her anger has subsided.
• The chapter recounts the Three Xiao Sisters’ powerful treasures and their history:
  • Yunxiao possesses the Innate Supreme Treasure, the Primordial Golden Bushel, which can imprison and strip immortals of their cultivation.
  • Qiongxiao and Bixiao share the Golden Flood Dragon Scissors, an Acquired Supreme Treasure capable of killing almost any being below the Saint realm.
  • Yunxiao had given the scissors to her younger sisters because they lacked protective treasures, demonstrating her self-sacrificing nature.
• The narrative explains that Yunxiao is effectively the caretaker of her reckless siblings. She has repeatedly protected them from causing disasters, including during the approaching Karmic Tribulation.
• Following Sect Master Tongtian’s warning to avoid the tribulation, Yunxiao sealed Three Immortals Island and forced Qiongxiao and Bixiao into seclusion after they attempted to sneak away.
• Qiongxiao eventually emerges from seclusion, delighted to see Zhao Gongming.

Character Developments

• Jiang Ming: Becomes increasingly interested in Yunxiao and recognizes her exceptional character. Although he notices the supernatural significance of the Red Cords, he remains cautious and does not actively pursue the connection. His mind-reading ability allows him to understand the tension between Yunxiao and Zhao Gongming without revealing that he knows.
• Yunxiao: Is presented as gentle, composed, immensely powerful, and deeply responsible. Her instinct to protect her sisters and tolerate Zhao Gongming’s recklessness establishes her as the emotional and practical center of the family.
• Zhao Gongming: Is portrayed as impulsive and troublesome, repeatedly creating problems despite being the eldest brother. His strained but affectionate relationship with Yunxiao is evident.
• Qiongxiao and Bixiao: Are characterized as rebellious, impulsive, and less cautious than Yunxiao. Their lack of restraint forces Yunxiao to discipline and protect them.
• Sect Master Tongtian: Appears as a relatively benevolent leader who provides powerful treasures and gives the sisters sensible advice about avoiding the coming tribulation.

Significant Themes

• Fate and destined relationships: The Red Cords symbolize Jiang Ming’s powerful Fate Patterns and suggest that his connection with the three sisters may be preordained rather than deliberately chosen.
• Responsibility versus recklessness: Yunxiao’s wisdom and restraint contrast sharply with the impulsiveness of Zhao Gongming, Qiongxiao, and Bixiao.
• Sacrifice and familial devotion: Yunxiao gives up a powerful treasure meant for her in order to protect her younger sisters, emphasizing her selflessness.
• Power and restraint: Although Yunxiao possesses overwhelming strength and treasures, she is defined by her calmness and reluctance to seek attention.
• The danger of destiny and calamity: The approaching Karmic Tribulation creates an atmosphere of impending disaster and highlights the importance of withdrawing from conflicts between major factions.

Character Interactions

• Jiang Ming and Yunxiao: Their first encounter carries an immediate, unexplained sense of mutual familiarity, reinforced by the appearance of the Red Cords.
• Yunxiao and Zhao Gongming: Their exchange reveals a familiar sibling dynamic: Zhao Gongming repeatedly causes trouble, while Yunxiao scolds him but ultimately remains emotionally attached and forgiving.
• Yunxiao and her sisters: Yunxiao acts almost like a parent toward Qiongxiao and Bixiao, disciplining them and shielding them from the consequences of their reckless behavior.
• Jiang Ming and Zhao Gongming: Jiang Ming silently judges Zhao Gongming’s irresponsibility while choosing not to expose his ability to read the conversation between Zhao Gongming and Yunxiao.
• Qiongxiao and Zhao Gongming: Qiongxiao’s excitement at seeing him suggests that, despite Yunxiao’s strictness, the siblings share a close and affectionate bond.

Chapter Summary: “Tackling Yunxiao”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Gongming returns to Three Immortals Island with Jiang Ming and Nezha, violating Yunxiao’s rule against bringing outsiders to the island.
• He announces that Jiang Ming is to become their sworn fifth brother and reveals that he has accepted Nezha as his personal disciple. Nezha is also Jiang Ming’s disciple.
• Yunxiao reacts angrily, fearing that Zhao Gongming’s new relationships will entangle their family in the approaching Karmic Tribulation.
• Zhao Gongming, Qiongxiao, and Bixiao immediately kneel before Yunxiao, showing their familiarity with her stern authority.
• After ordering them to rise, Yunxiao questions Zhao Gongming about his actions. He explains how he met Jiang Ming and Nezha and recounts the events of the previous four years.
• Yunxiao analyzes the coming God-Sealing Calamity, predicting that many Loose Immortals and Interception Sect members will die or be forced onto the God-Sealing List to serve the Heavenly Court.
• Jiang Ming argues that the Boundless Karmic Tribulation cannot truly be avoided. He recounts the likely tragic fates of the four sworn siblings:
  • Zhao Gongming will be killed by Lu Ya’s Nail-Head Seven Arrows Book, while Randeng takes his treasures.
  • Bixiao will be reduced to blood by Yuanshi Tianzun’s jade box.
  • Qiongxiao will be killed by the Three-Treasure Jade Ruyi.
  • Yunxiao will be trapped beneath Qilin Cliff in the Qiankun Diagram by Taishang Laojun.
• Yunxiao attempts to verify Jiang Ming’s account by divining the secrets of Heaven, but the Calamity Qi retaliates.
• A black bolt of Karmic Tribulation lightning strikes her. Jiang Ming protects her by taking the attack himself and quickly absorbing its power.

Character Development

• Zhao Gongming: Reveals his impulsive and bold nature by bringing outsiders to Three Immortals Island, taking Nezha as a disciple, and proposing Jiang Ming as a sworn brother. Despite his confidence, he is clearly intimidated by Yunxiao’s anger.
• Yunxiao: Demonstrates intelligence, caution, and leadership. She immediately recognizes the danger of the Karmic Tribulation and prioritizes protecting her siblings. Her calm exterior hides deep concern for their fate.
• Jiang Ming: Establishes himself as the most knowledgeable and potentially powerful figure present. He is willing to confront Yunxiao with an unpleasant truth and proves his strength by intercepting and neutralizing the Calamity Qi.
• Nezha: Remains confused and observant, unsure how to respond to the family’s tense confrontation and uncertain whether he should kneel with the others.
• Qiongxiao and Bixiao: Their instinctive submission to Yunxiao highlights both their close sibling bond and Yunxiao’s authority over them.

Significant Themes

• The inevitability of fate: The Boundless Karmic Tribulation affects Heaven, Earth, and humanity, making complete avoidance impossible.
• Family loyalty versus self-preservation: The siblings’ love for one another may ultimately draw them into the same disaster, despite Yunxiao’s attempts to keep them safe.
• Foreknowledge and resistance: Knowing the future may not be enough to escape it, but Jiang Ming’s intervention suggests that fate can potentially be altered.
• The danger of alliances during calamity: Zhao Gongming’s discipleship and sworn-brother arrangement create new karmic ties at the worst possible moment.
• Power and protection: Jiang Ming’s ability to absorb the calamity contrasts with the siblings’ vulnerability, positioning him as a possible shield against their predicted deaths.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Gongming nervously faces Yunxiao after bringing Jiang Ming and Nezha to the island.
• Yunxiao rebukes Zhao Gongming, while Qiongxiao and Bixiao immediately kneel alongside him.
• Yunxiao interrogates Zhao Gongming about his actions but becomes more receptive when Jiang Ming speaks.
• Jiang Ming directly challenges Yunxiao’s belief that caution can protect them from the calamity.
• Yunxiao’s attempt to test Jiang Ming’s prophecy triggers the attack, prompting him to physically protect her and absorb the resulting lightning.

Jiang Ming shielded Yunxiao from the karmic tribulation’s punishment, was injured, and revealed that his blood could restore life to the barren cliff. Yunxiao invited him to remain on Three Immortals Island so she could heal him, giving him the chance to settle there.

• Jiang Ming tackled Yunxiao and took the karmic tribulation’s punishment in her place, leaving her unharmed.
• A drop of Jiang Ming’s heart’s blood transformed the barren cliff into a thriving paradise of ancient plants and flowers.
• Yunxiao recalled that she had glimpsed herself in a red bridal gown and felt increasingly drawn to Jiang Ming.
• Zhao Gongming worried that Jiang Ming’s blood loss had damaged his foundation and cost him ten thousand years of lifespan.
• Yunxiao offered to help Jiang Ming recover if he stayed on Three Immortals Island, and Jiang Ming accepted.

After years of cultivating with the Three Xiao Sisters, Jiang Ming entered the Quasi-Saint realm through the Imperial Emperor Dao, unsettling the Jade Emperor, who sensed a rival claim to his authority. The chapter left the Jade Emperor wondering how the Karmic Tribulation had changed and who was challenging his position.

• Jiang Ming and Yunxiao developed a healing cultivation method, and Yunxiao sensed an opportunity to break through to Sainthood through him.
• Yunxiao invited her sisters to cultivate with Jiang Ming, while Zhao Gongming, Nezha, Yang Jian, and Lei Zhenzi gathered on Three Immortals Island.
• Jiang Ming cultivated with the Three Xiao Sisters for two years and entered the Quasi-Saint realm by severing his Evil Corpse through the Imperial Emperor Dao.
• The Jade Emperor sensed Jiang Ming's breakthrough and felt that another cultivator of the Imperial Emperor Dao might take part of his authority.
• The Jade Emperor reflected on the scheme against Yao Ji and recognized that the God-Sealing List required bloodshed to fill its positions.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jiang Ming successfully breaks through in cultivation. Over the following two years, he helps Qiongxiao and Bixiao stabilize their realms using a special dual-cultivation technique and by refining powerful Acquired Spirit Treasures for them.
• He creates White Lotus treasures to suppress their Good Corpses and promises to refine treasures for their Evil Corpses after they advance further. For Yunxiao, he personally refines three treasures: the White Lotus, Red Lotus, and Golden Lotus.
• After five years living with the Three Xiao Sisters on Three Immortals Island, Jiang Ming becomes extremely important to them—surpassing even their brother, Zhao Gongming, in their esteem. Zhao Gongming remains unconcerned and focuses on teaching Nezha, Yang Jian, and Lei Zhenzi.
• Jiang Ming teaches the sisters, Zhao Gongming, and the disciples his evolved versions of the Nine Secrets, organized around three practical principles: kill enemies who can be defeated, escape from those who cannot, and recover from injury. His broader mastery includes Yin-Yang, sword, life and death, world, time-space, karma, fate, Buddhist, and demonic Daos.
• Great Shang completes another five-year development plan. Thatched homes are replaced with cement housing, roads and utility poles spread from Chaoge, and electricity transforms society. Trains, automobiles, firearms, artillery, grenades, and airplanes begin to appear.
• Using Dynastic Fortune Points, Jiang Ming recruits advanced talents from other worlds, including renowned national scholars, further accelerating Great Shang’s technological development. His Dynastic Fate Pattern is extended by five years.
• Jiang Ming secretly plans to use the growing military and technological power of Great Shang to crush rebellious feudal lords, unify the dynasty, and eventually expand into neighboring realms. He deliberately restrains progress temporarily so his enemies do not lose hope and unite too early.
• Kong Xuan continues transferring Merit and Fortune to Origin Phoenix, helping reduce his mother’s suffering. At Jiang Ming’s suggestion, Kong Xuan captures and subdues his younger brother, the Golden-Winged Roc Eagle, forcing him to serve Great Shang so he can benefit from its Merit and Fortune.
• Jiang Ming frequently summons Kong Xuan to play chess and gradually tries to win his loyalty and affection. He notices signs that Kong Xuan may eventually transform into a woman, but chooses to proceed patiently.
• Jiang Ming discovers that the Western Teachings are becoming active as the Karmic Tribulation begins. They target Taiyi Zhenren, hoping to exploit his arrogance and seize his many powerful Spirit Treasures.

Character Developments

• Jiang Ming grows stronger and becomes more influential as both a cultivator and ruler. He combines high-level cultivation with technological modernization, military planning, political patience, and long-term manipulation of fate and fortune.
• Qiongxiao and Bixiao make major progress in stabilizing their cultivation and become increasingly dependent on Jiang Ming’s guidance and treasures.
• Yunxiao receives especially personal treatment from Jiang Ming, strengthening their bond and her trust in him.
• Zhao Gongming remains optimistic and emotionally unaffected by Jiang Ming’s growing prominence. He continues mentoring the younger disciples and accepts Jiang Ming’s instruction.
• Nezha, Yang Jian, and Lei Zhenzi receive guidance from both Zhao Gongming and the Three Xiao Sisters, but value Jiang Ming’s teachings most highly because of their exceptional power.
• Kong Xuan becomes closer to Jiang Ming through their repeated chess games, though he remains emotionally difficult to sway. He also takes greater responsibility by subduing and managing his reckless younger brother.
• The Golden-Winged Roc Eagle is forced out of isolation and brought into Great Shang’s service after Kong Xuan easily suppresses him.
• Taiyi Zhenren becomes the Western Teachings’ target because of his arrogance, wealth, and collection of top-grade treasures.

Significant Themes

• Power through preparation: Jiang Ming strengthens both himself and Great Shang before openly confronting his enemies.
• Integration of cultivation and technology: Immortal arts, advanced weapons, infrastructure, and imported expertise are combined to create a powerful modernizing state.
• Loyalty and influence: Jiang Ming gradually wins people over through assistance, teaching, personal attention, and strategic patience rather than force alone.
• Pragmatic survival: His philosophy emphasizes killing when victory is certain, escaping when it is not, and recovering from setbacks.
• Political concealment: Jiang Ming intentionally hides Great Shang’s full strength so rebellious forces will not unite prematurely.
• Factional conflict and opportunism: As the Karmic Tribulation develops, the Western Teachings seek to profit from disorder by targeting vulnerable or wealthy figures from rival sects.

Character Interactions

• Jiang Ming works closely with the Three Xiao Sisters, stabilizing their cultivation and supplying them with treasures.
• He teaches advanced techniques to Zhao Gongming, the Three Xiao Sisters, and the three young disciples, earning their admiration.
• Zhao Gongming cooperates with Jiang Ming in raising and educating Nezha, Yang Jian, and Lei Zhenzi.
• Jiang Ming influences Kong Xuan through repeated private chess matches and attempts to win his allegiance.
• Kong Xuan dominates and subdues the Golden-Winged Roc Eagle, turning him into an assistant for Great Shang.
• Jiang Ming’s observations and indirect suggestion prompt Kong Xuan to act, showing Jiang Ming’s growing influence over powerful allies.
• The Western Teachings prepare to exploit Taiyi Zhenren’s arrogance and treasure collection as the larger Karmic Tribulation approaches.

The Western Teachings lured Taiyi Zhenren into an ambush, killed him, and framed Shiji Niangniang by disguising a Buddha as her. Shiji survived a separate attack, but the Chan Sect blamed her for Taiyi Zhenren’s death and sent three Golden Immortals to kill her.

• The Western Teachings planned to kill Taiyi Zhenren and Shiji Niangniang, then use their deaths to provoke conflict between the Chan Sect and the Interception Sect.
• Taiyi Zhenren heard that the Western Teachings were escorting a Purple-Gold Alms Bowl and attacked them to seize it.
• The Blood-Winged Black Mosquito drained most of Taiyi Zhenren’s blood essence and primordial spirit while a Buddha disguised himself as Shiji Niangniang and killed Taiyi Zhenren.
• The Western Teachings arranged for Shiji Niangniang to be ambushed with Taiyi Zhenren’s stolen treasures, but Ma Yuan arrived and drove off the false Taiyi Zhenren before Shiji died.
• Three Chan Sect Golden Immortals attacked Shiji Niangniang, accusing the Interception Sect of killing Taiyi Zhenren.

Guangchengzi, Yuding Zhenren, and Juliusun blamed Shiji and Ma Yuan for Taiyi Zhenren’s death, and Guangchengzi killed Ma Yuan while Juliusun captured Shiji. Zhao Gongming and Jiang Ming arrived, and Jiang Ming freed Shiji as the conflicting evidence left him suspecting that someone had plotted behind the affair.

• Guangchengzi, Yuding Zhenren, and Juliusun found evidence linking Shiji and Ma Yuan to Taiyi Zhenren’s death and attacked them.
• Guangchengzi crushed Ma Yuan with the Heaven-Flipping Seal and destroyed his cultivation, while his primordial spirit was drawn toward the God-Sealing List.
• Juliusun captured the wounded Shiji with the Immortal-Binding Rope as Biyun Child protested that Taiyi Zhenren had attacked her first.
• Zhao Gongming and Jiang Ming arrived after Caiyun Child sought help, and Jiang Ming used the Treasure-Seizing Coins to disable the rope and rescued Shiji.
• Jiang Ming questioned the Chan Sect’s accusations and concluded that Taiyi Zhenren’s death and the events at Skull Mountain suggested a hidden plot.

Chapter Summary: “Hou Yi’s Living Hell”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Juliusun is stunned when Jiang Ming effortlessly breaks the Immortal-Binding Rope without an incantation. Jiang Ming refuses to reveal his identity and calmly threatens to kill Juliusun someday, making clear that the threat is genuine.
• Guangchengzi confronts Jiang Ming, accusing him of arrogance. Jiang Ming warns that even the Heaven-Flipping Seal cannot guarantee Guangchengzi’s safety and implies he could seize the treasure if Guangchengzi used it.
• Guangchengzi, Yuding Zhenren, and Juliusun attempt to leave, but Zhao Gongming blocks them with the twenty-four Sea-Calming Pearls. He demands an explanation for their attack on White Bone Cave and Ma Yuan’s death.
• Yuding reveals that Taiyi Zhenren was killed and completely destroyed, leaving him unable to enter the God-Sealing List. The Chan Sect disciples assume Ma Yuan and Shiji were responsible.
• Jiang Ming challenges this assumption, pointing out that neither Ma Yuan nor Shiji had an obvious motive to kill Taiyi Zhenren. He suggests that a third party may have killed Taiyi and framed them to provoke conflict between the Chan Sect and the Interception Sect.
• Randeng Taoist arrives, accusing Zhao Gongming of attacking Chan Sect disciples. He is secretly coveting Zhao Gongming’s Sea-Calming Pearls and has come prepared to intervene.
• Randeng is accompanied by Taoist Lu Ya, a powerful Quasi-Saint carrying a golden gourd. Lu Ya claims he came to help uphold justice after hearing that the Interception Sect had killed a Chan Sect Golden Immortal.
• Jiang Ming immediately recognizes Lu Ya’s connection to the Supreme Yang lineage and the Little Golden Crow. He recalls Lu Ya’s future role as a major Buddhist figure and identifies him as the likely wielder of the Immortal-Slaying Gourd.
• The chapter recounts the tragic history surrounding Hou Yi, Heng’e, and Lu Ya: Hou Yi spared Lu Ya because Heng’e pleaded for her brother, but Di Jun later punished Hou Yi by splitting him into two beings—one used to create the Immortal-Slaying Gourd’s artifact spirit and the other becoming Wu Gang.
• Jiang Ming seizes Lu Ya’s gourd with his Seven-Colored Divine Light. Lu Ya panics and demands the return of his treasure.

Character Developments

• Jiang Ming: Demonstrates overwhelming confidence after reaching the Quasi-Saint realm. He is no longer intimidated by supreme treasures or powerful immortals and acts as both a formidable combatant and a sharp political analyst. He also displays knowledge of Lu Ya’s hidden identity and tragic history.
• Zhao Gongming: Acts as an enforcer for the Interception Sect, refusing to let the Chan Sect disciples escape without answering for their actions. His twenty-four Sea-Calming Pearls effectively control the battlefield.
• Guangchengzi, Yuding Zhenren, and Juliusun: Initially act aggressively and assume guilt on the part of Ma Yuan and Shiji, but Jiang Ming’s reasoning exposes weaknesses in their conclusions. Their confidence is shaken by Jiang Ming’s power and arguments.
• Randeng Taoist: Presents himself as defending the Chan Sect, but his true motivation includes coveting Zhao Gongming’s powerful treasures. His willingness to cooperate with the Western Teachings hints at his shifting loyalties.
• Taoist Lu Ya: Enters under the guise of an ally and moral defender, but Jiang Ming’s recognition of him exposes his dangerous background. His panic after losing the gourd reveals that his confidence depends heavily on his treasured weapon.
• Hou Yi and Heng’e: Though mostly discussed through backstory, their tragic relationship adds emotional and historical depth to the chapter. Hou Yi’s mercy toward Heng’e’s brother ultimately leads to his own horrific punishment.

Significant Themes

• Power and intimidation: Jiang Ming’s calm threats and ability to seize supreme treasures show how the balance of power has shifted in the Primordial Wilderness.
• Justice versus manipulation: The apparent murder of Taiyi Zhenren may be part of a larger scheme designed to create war between rival sects.
• Political intrigue and scapegoating: Jiang Ming encourages the Chan Sect disciples to question who benefits from the conflict instead of blindly blaming Ma Yuan and Shiji.
• The consequences of mercy: Hou Yi’s decision to spare Lu Ya does not lead to gratitude; instead, it contributes indirectly to Hou Yi’s own cruel fate.
• Hidden identities and future destinies: Lu Ya’s current identity is connected to his future transformation into a major Buddhist figure, emphasizing the chapter’s broader mythological and historical scope.
• Treasure as a symbol of power: The Sea-Calming Pearls, Heaven-Flipping Seal, and Immortal-Slaying Gourd represent authority and influence, while Jiang Ming’s ability to seize them demonstrates his rising dominance.

Important Character Interactions

• Jiang Ming and Juliusun: Jiang Ming threatens Juliusun while casually demonstrating superiority by undoing the Immortal-Binding Rope.
• Jiang Ming and Guangchengzi: Their exchange is openly hostile, with Jiang Ming challenging Guangchengzi’s reliance on the Heaven-Flipping Seal.
• Jiang Ming and the Chan Sect disciples: Jiang Ming forces them to reconsider their assumptions about Taiyi Zhenren’s death and suggests they have been manipulated.
• Zhao Gongming and the Chan Sect: Zhao Gongming blocks their retreat and demands accountability for the violence at White Bone Cave.
• Randeng and Zhao Gongming: Randeng publicly defends the Chan Sect while secretly coveting Zhao Gongming’s Sea-Calming Pearls.
• Jiang Ming and Lu Ya: Their confrontation is the chapter’s climax. Jiang Ming identifies Lu Ya’s origins, recalls the history tied to Hou Yi, and immediately takes the Immortal-Slaying Gourd, leaving Lu Ya shocked and enraged.