Chapter Summaries

Chapter Summary

• Song Zhizhi’s injuries are treated: Xie Xiuji examines Song Zhizhi after her battle with Demon King Lanti. Her protective artifact prevented internal damage, but her shoulder, collarbone, shoulder blade, and arm bones were fractured. Using spiritual energy and high-quality medicine, Xie Xiuji repairs the fractures and removes her bruising.
• Xie Xiuji takes advantage of the treatment: Although he initially acts as a careful and professional healer, Xie Xiuji’s massage gradually becomes increasingly intimate. He claims Song Zhizhi has additional injuries and begins undressing her, even touching places that are not wounded. Song Zhizhi recognizes that he is deliberately using the medical treatment as an excuse to flirt with and take advantage of her. She is embarrassed but also responds with teasing annoyance, while Xie Xiuji maintains a falsely serious expression and repeatedly asks whether she is comfortable.
• Their romantic tension deepens: Xie Xiuji’s possessive gaze and physical attention reveal his strong attraction to Song Zhizhi. Song Zhizhi is shy beneath his openly suggestive behavior, yet she is clearly accustomed to and affected by his advances. Their interaction combines genuine concern for her health with playful sensuality and mutual flirtation.
• The group prepares to move on: After resting overnight, Song Zhizhi emerges looking healthy and rosy, while Xie Xiuji also appears refreshed. Venomtail Demon King asks whether her wounds have healed, but he misunderstands her embarrassment and assumes it may be due to discomfort with the Demon Realm’s environment.
• Arrival at Demon King White Snow’s territory: Venomtail Demon King is eager to proceed to Demon King White Snow’s territory, ostensibly to eliminate remnants of the Demonic Cultivators, though his real interest is looting White Snow’s treasury. Since the journey requires crossing the Forest of Ten Thousand Demons, the group uses spatial teleportation. Xie Xiuji brings Song Zhizhi with him because she has the lowest cultivation, and they arrive safely in White Snow’s territory.

Key Themes

• Romantic intimacy and playful seduction: Medical care becomes an opportunity for Xie Xiuji and Song Zhizhi to express their attraction.
• Protectiveness and possessiveness: Xie Xiuji is genuinely displeased by Song Zhizhi’s injuries and takes personal responsibility for healing her.
• Humor through misunderstanding: Venomtail Demon King misreads Song Zhizhi’s embarrassment, while his supposedly heroic mission is humorously contrasted with his desire to plunder treasure.
• Transition to a new conflict: The group’s arrival in White Snow’s territory sets up the next stage of their mission against the Demonic Cultivators.

Chapter Summary: “Save Hai Luo” (Major Revision)

Key Plot Points and Events

• Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji arrive at Demon King White Snow’s snow-mountain territory after White Snow’s defeat and death.
• The remaining demons at the stronghold are mostly old, weak, or unaware of what happened. The protagonists’ main objective is to eliminate the Demonic Cultivators responsible for harming innocent people, not to exterminate all of White Snow’s followers.
• The group divides into two teams and searches the territory. Xie Xiuji uses his immense Divine Sense to locate hidden Demonic Cultivators in caves, secret rooms, and Formations.
• Demonic Cultivators who resist are killed, while those who surrender are spared. Xie Xiuji easily defeats cultivators from the Golden Core and Nascent Soul stages.
• During the search, Xie Xiuji detects a hidden cave protected by a Formation. Inside, they discover Hai Luo, the missing Crown Princess of the Merfolk.
• Hai Luo has been brutally imprisoned and tortured. She is emaciated, suffering from frostbite, and covered in wounds. Her scales have been torn from her tail, and a black chain has been driven through her Dantian and fastened to the mountain wall.
• Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji approach cautiously, identify themselves as Sword Sect disciples, and tell Hai Luo that they have come to rescue her.

Character Developments

• Song Zhizhi shows strong compassion and a clear sense of justice. Seeing Hai Luo’s condition intensifies her hatred of the Demonic Cultivators and confirms her belief that those who abuse innocents deserve punishment.
• Xie Xiuji demonstrates his overwhelming power through his Divine Sense and effortless victories over powerful Demonic Cultivators. He is also perceptive and sensitive, immediately recognizing that the presence in the cave is not an enemy but the missing Merfolk Crown Princess.
• Hai Luo is introduced as traumatized, physically debilitated, and distrustful. Her defensive aggression—baring her fangs—masks fear and helplessness. Upon hearing Song Zhizhi mention the Sword Sect and call her by name, she begins to believe that rescue may truly be possible.

Significant Themes

• Justice and retribution: The Demonic Cultivators’ deaths are framed as consequences for the suffering they inflicted on innocent people.
• Compassion amid violence: Although the protagonists are carrying out a ruthless purge, their purpose is ultimately protective, especially in their treatment of Hai Luo.
• Abuse of power and cruelty: Hai Luo’s torture reveals the extreme brutality of the Demonic Cultivators and deepens the moral contrast between them and the protagonists.
• Trust and hope: Hai Luo’s faint response to Song Zhizhi’s reassurance marks the beginning of her recovery from fear and isolation.
• Contrast between environments and characters: The freezing mountain is unbearable to Song Zhizhi but comfortable for Xie Xiuji, reflecting their different spiritual attributes and personalities.

Character Interactions

• Xie Xiuji protects Song Zhizhi from the freezing mountain air with a Barrier, while she remains uncomfortable in the cold environment.
• The two work together efficiently during the search, with Xie Xiuji locating hidden enemies and Song Zhizhi helping identify and understand the Formations.
• Song Zhizhi deliberately avoids frightening Hai Luo, stopping her advance and speaking gently to gain the girl’s trust.
• Hai Luo initially reacts with fear and hostility, but Song Zhizhi’s words, the absence of the protagonists’ bloody scent, and their mention of the Sword Sect cause her defenses to weaken. She finally asks, in a hoarse voice, whether they truly came to save her.

Chapter Summary

• Plot and events: Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji find Hai Luo still imprisoned and badly injured. Hai Luo initially recoils from Song Zhizhi because of the frightening Phoenix aura surrounding her, which triggers the sea demon’s instinctive fear of a natural enemy. Song Zhizhi reassures her by presenting the pearl given to her by Hai Luo’s younger sister, Hai Po. Recognizing Hai Po’s aura and emotions within the pearl, Hai Luo realizes that Song Zhizhi is her sister’s friend and lowers her guard.
• Song Zhizhi tries to cut through Hai Luo’s restraints with the Vermilion Bird Sword, but the chains are made of extremely durable Black Crystal Stone. She considers using Phoenix True Fire, horrifying Hai Luo, who fears being burned alive before the chains melt. Xie Xiuji instead uses his Blood Drinker sword and powerful Sword Qi to shatter the chains. Although the force worsens Hai Luo’s injuries and makes her vomit blood, she is finally freed.
• Hai Luo weeps tears of joy, which transform into pearls, overwhelmed by her regained freedom after years of torture. Before she can fully thank her rescuers, Song Zhizhi senses something outside and hurriedly leaves with Xie Xiuji, giving Hai Luo healing pills and promising to return her to the Extreme Sea after handling other matters.

Character development

• Hai Luo shifts from terrified suspicion to trust and gratitude after recognizing Hai Po’s pearl. Her emotional release upon being freed shows the depth of her suffering and her renewed hope.
• Song Zhizhi demonstrates compassion and resourcefulness, using Hai Po’s token to calm Hai Luo and trying multiple ways to free her. Her Phoenix aura remains unintentionally intimidating.
• Xie Xiuji acts protectively and decisively, shielding Song Zhizhi while using his sword to break the chains.
• Themes: Trust formed through familial connection, compassion toward the wounded, freedom after prolonged oppression, and the contrast between fearsome power and gentle intentions. The chapter also uses humor through Hai Luo’s instinctive fear that Song Zhizhi might “boil” or grill her with Phoenix True Fire.
• Character interactions: Song Zhizhi carefully reassures Hai Luo with Hai Po’s pearl; Hai Luo’s fear of Song Zhizhi’s Phoenix nature creates tension, while Xie Xiuji supports Song Zhizhi and takes over the dangerous task of breaking the chains. Their brief rescue is affectionate but hurried, ending with Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji rushing off before Hai Luo can properly express her thanks.

Chapter Summary: White Snow Treasury

Key Plot Points and Events

• Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji rush toward the aura of Extraterrestrial Meteoric Iron, which the Vermilion Bird Sword has sensed nearby. The rare material is extremely valuable and could help complete the sword’s body.
• They arrive to find Aunt Lan, Venomtail Demon King, and Demon King Lanti already gathered in the area. The treasure cannot be seen because it is hidden beneath the snow.
• The group realizes that the aura belongs not only to the meteorite iron but also to Demon King White Snow’s hidden treasury.
• The treasury’s aura was exposed after a distant explosion. Song Zhizhi suspects the disturbance was connected to Xie Xiuji’s earlier sword strike, which severed the Black Crystal Stone chains.
• The treasury is protected by a powerful Formation with an automatic self-destruct mechanism. Brute force would send the treasury’s contents into the Void, destroying any chance of obtaining the treasures.
• Since the three demon cultivators are poor at Formations and Xie Xiuji admits he is not skilled in deciphering them, everyone turns to Song Zhizhi.
• Song Zhizhi studies the Formation from above while Xie Xiuji carries her through Sword Flight, allowing her to observe its complete structure.
• She determines that it is a medium-grade chain Formation combining Concealment, Aura-Hiding, and Protective Formations, with traces of a Vajra Formation. It is extremely sophisticated—more advanced than a similar Formation previously seen in Extreme Sea City—but she has never encountered this exact design before.

Character Developments

• Song Zhizhi shows increasing confidence and responsibility as the group’s only viable Formation expert. Although she recognizes the limits of her six months of study, she willingly takes on the challenge.
• Xie Xiuji demonstrates his trust in Song Zhizhi by openly deferring to her expertise. He is powerful enough to destroy Formations by force but lacks patience or skill for carefully unraveling them.
• The Vermilion Bird Sword remains highly excitable and greedy for the Extraterrestrial Meteoric Iron, constantly urging Song Zhizhi to seize it. Song Zhizhi eventually suppresses its voice to concentrate.
• The three demon cultivators are portrayed as powerful but helpless when confronted with complex human Formation techniques, forcing them to rely on Song Zhizhi.

Significant Themes

• Knowledge versus brute strength: Even powerful cultivators cannot simply overpower every obstacle. The treasury’s self-destruct mechanism makes technical understanding more valuable than raw cultivation.
• Trust and cooperation: Humans, demons, and a half-human cultivator must work together despite their different abilities and temperaments.
• Greed and treasure hunting: The Extraterrestrial Meteoric Iron and White Snow’s treasury motivate everyone, creating urgency and potential competition.
• Comedic contrast in relationships: The author highlights Xie Xiuji’s shameless favoritism toward Song Zhizhi—he treats others’ injuries as minor but considers even her superficial wounds serious.
• Limits of talent and experience: Song Zhizhi is gifted but acknowledges that exceptional talent cannot replace years of study, making the Formation a genuine challenge.

Character Interactions

• Song Zhizhi urgently commands Xie Xiuji to hurry, while the Vermilion Bird Sword enthusiastically echoes her desire to claim the meteorite iron.
• Venomtail Demon King identifies the aura as belonging to White Snow’s treasury, revealing the true nature of their destination.
• The demons expect Xie Xiuji and Song Zhizhi to understand the Formation, but Xie Xiuji immediately directs their hopes toward Song Zhizhi.
• Xie Xiuji supports Song Zhizhi practically by carrying her above the Formation so she can inspect its patterns, reinforcing their cooperative and trusting relationship.

Chapter Summary: “Proper Cultivation”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Song Zhizhi studies the enormous chain Formation covering Demon King White Snow’s snowy mountain. Unlike the “Trojan virus” method she used in Extreme Sea City, this Formation is too interconnected to collapse from within.
• She realizes that although the chain Formation’s combined power rivals that of an advanced Formation, it is made entirely from intermediate Formations, making it theoretically possible for her to unravel.
• After working through the night, Song Zhizhi maps the Formation’s structure and discovers a way to break it.
• Xie Xiuji protects her while she analyzes the Formation, supplies her with snacks, and praises her abilities. Once Song Zhizhi’s method is ready, he takes responsibility for the dangerous part of dismantling the Formation.
• Before he leaves, Song Zhizhi secretly kisses Xie Xiuji and wishes him luck. He teases her about behaving properly in front of outsiders, then privately pulls her behind a Barrier and kisses her more passionately.
• With Song Zhizhi’s method and the combined efforts of Xie Xiuji, Venomtail Demon King, and the other demons, the Formation is broken after roughly two hours.
• A hidden entrance appears in the snow, leading down into Demon King White Snow’s treasure vault. Because Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji contributed the most, they are allowed to enter first and claim half the treasure, while the three demons divide the other half.
• The vault turns out to occupy an entire hollowed-out mountain and contains countless valuable treasures.
• Vermilion Bird Sword ignores the other riches and guides Song Zhizhi to a huge piece of Extraterrestrial Meteoric Iron. Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji realize that they have found an extraordinarily valuable treasure.

Character Developments

• Song Zhizhi demonstrates significant growth as a Formation Master. Although she considers herself only a part-time practitioner, she successfully analyzes and solves a complex Formation that would otherwise be beyond her level.
• Her confidence and competence are balanced by humility; she attributes her success partly to luck despite clearly possessing considerable skill.
• Xie Xiuji continues to act as Song Zhizhi’s protector and partner. He trusts her judgment, praises her openly, and handles the physical danger of breaking the Formation so she can remain safe.
• Xie Xiuji also becomes more openly affectionate and playful in private, showing how comfortable and intimate his relationship with Song Zhizhi has become.
• Vermilion Bird Sword remains single-minded about finding Extraterrestrial Meteoric Iron and is more excited by that material than by the vault’s many other treasures.
• Song Zhizhi’s reaction to the treasure vault emphasizes her limited personal wealth as a relatively young Sword Cultivator, despite her growing abilities.

Significant Themes

• Skill and ingenuity over brute force: Song Zhizhi succeeds by understanding the Formation’s structure rather than overpowering it.
• Teamwork and complementary strengths: Song Zhizhi provides the intellectual solution, while Xie Xiuji and the demons supply the power and protection needed to execute it.
• Romance and mutual trust: Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji’s affectionate teasing and coordinated actions show a deeply established partnership.
• Reward after hardship: Their careful efforts lead to an enormous treasure discovery, reinforcing the cultivation-world theme that danger and perseverance can yield great opportunities.
• The contrast between appearance and value: The seemingly ordinary black ore is revealed to be an exceptionally precious material, highlighting the importance of knowledge and discernment.

Character Interactions

• Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji communicate with a strong tacit understanding, often recognizing each other’s thoughts without words.
• Xie Xiuji praises Song Zhizhi’s Formation skills and takes her safety seriously.
• Song Zhizhi playfully provokes him with a kiss, and he responds by privately returning her affection while pretending to uphold propriety in front of the others.
• The group cooperates fairly when dividing access to the treasure vault, acknowledging Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji’s greater contribution.
• Vermilion Bird Sword eagerly directs Song Zhizhi toward the Extraterrestrial Meteoric Iron, while Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji share the shock and excitement of discovering its immense value.

Chapter Summary — Page 126

Key Plot Points and Events

• Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji divide the treasures in Demon King White Snow’s treasury, taking the Extraterrestrial Meteoric Iron and filling their storage bags with valuables.
• The Vermilion Bird Sword absorbs the meteorite iron and excitedly boasts about its past achievements, but Song Zhizhi seals it to stop its constant chatter.
• After resolving matters in the Demon Realm, Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji leave with Aunt Lan and Hai Luo. Aunt Lan is tasked with investigating the Flowing Feather Sect, while Hai Luo is returned to the Extreme Sea.
• Hai Luo is reunited with her mother, the Merfolk Empress, after enduring prolonged torture and blood extraction at the hands of Alluring Madam. Although healing pills repair most of her physical injuries, her severe psychological trauma remains.
• The Merfolk Empress gratefully pledges the Merfolk’s support to Song Zhizhi’s future efforts to rebuild the Demon Realm.
• Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji continue their journey and eventually return to the Sword Sect after more than a month away. By then, Song Zhizhi is nine months pregnant.

Character Developments

• Song Zhizhi demonstrates increasing independence by deliberately saving her own wealth rather than relying entirely on Xie Xiuji. She also shows compassion and concern for Hai Luo’s emotional recovery, recognizing that her trauma requires more than physical healing.
• Xie Xiuji remains calm and practical when collecting treasures, but his affection for Song Zhizhi and their unborn child is evident. He warmly assures her that he will love their child regardless of whether it is a son or daughter.
• Hai Luo begins recovering after her rescue. Her physical condition improves, and she is able to return home, though she remains fearful and psychologically scarred by her imprisonment.
• The Merfolk Empress displays deep maternal love and gratitude. She recognizes Song Zhizhi’s potential as a future Demon King and instructs Hai Luo not to oppose her.
• The Vermilion Bird Sword remains powerful but comically talkative, reinforcing its unusual, bickering relationship with Song Zhizhi.

Significant Themes

• Recovery from abuse and trauma: Hai Luo’s return emphasizes that emotional wounds can endure long after physical injuries are treated.
• Compassion and responsibility: Song Zhizhi’s concern for Hai Luo reflects her growing sense of responsibility as a future leader.
• Family and loyalty: The reunion between Hai Luo and the Merfolk Empress, as well as Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji’s discussion of their unborn child, highlights the importance of familial bonds.
• Political alliances: The Merfolk’s pledge strengthens Song Zhizhi’s position and provides valuable support for her plans to rebuild the Demon Realm.
• Marital affection and partnership: Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji share both financial responsibilities and emotional support, presenting their relationship as an equal partnership.

Character Interactions

• Song Zhizhi humorously silences the boastful Vermilion Bird Sword after it absorbs the meteorite iron.
• She and Xie Xiuji discuss their future child, with Xie expressing unconditional love for either a son or daughter.
• The Merfolk Empress formally thanks Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji for saving Hai Luo and offers the Merfolk’s allegiance.
• Hai Luo and her mother share a tearful reunion, followed by reassurance and advice from the Empress.
• Xie Xiuji silently follows a relationship manual to become a more attentive husband, adding a comedic element to his otherwise dignified character.

Chapter Summary: Zhizhi’s Soft Heart

Key Plot Points and Events

• Song Zhizhi’s pregnancy is progressing well because of Xie Xiuji’s attentive care. Rather than weakening, she has become radiant and more mature in appearance.
• Qingyu admires Song Zhizhi’s beauty and jokingly feels that Xie Xiuji has been extraordinarily fortunate to marry her and father her child.
• Song Zhizhi hides from Qingyu the fact that the Demon Realm no longer possesses the Ten-Thousand-Year Parasol Tree Heart. She rationalizes that since Qin Buwen has it, they can reclaim it after dealing with him.
• Aunt Lan, whose true form is a Blue-Striped Paradise Flycatcher, secretly monitors the Flowing Feather Sect. Her Spirit Transformation-level cultivation allows her to observe the sect without being detected.
• Aunt Lan discovers that the supposedly obscure Flowing Feather Sect is abnormally powerful:
  • It has no Qi Refining disciples.
  • Even its weakest members are at the Foundation Establishment stage.
  • Its younger disciples form cores at rates comparable to those of the Sword Sect.
  • Its elders are Nascent Soul cultivators.
  • At least ten hidden Spirit Transformation cultivators are present.
• These discoveries confirm Song Zhizhi’s suspicion that the Flowing Feather Sect is concealing something significant, possibly its connection to Demonic Cultivators.
• However, the Flowing Feather Sect is officially subordinate to the Heavenly Feather Sect. Without evidence, the Sword Sect cannot invade, seize Qin Buwen, or reclaim the Parasol Tree Heart without risking conflict and damage to its reputation.
• Song Zhizhi becomes distracted by the problem, even during her nightly cultivation with Xie Xiuji.
• Xie Xiuji reassures her that he will handle the matter and encourages her to focus on cultivation.
• Their cultivation becomes increasingly intimate. Xie Xiuji is strongly attracted to Song Zhizhi but restrains himself because of her pregnancy.
• They discuss the uncertainty of the baby’s birth. Because the child possesses an ancestral True Phoenix Bloodline while Song Zhizhi has only half-Phoenix blood, the pregnancy could last far longer than the estimated twelve months.
• Xie Xiuji is visibly troubled by the possibility that the child may still not be born after another three months.

Character Developments

• Song Zhizhi: Appears healthier, more confident, and mature during pregnancy. Though she remains strategic and careful about political consequences, her concern over recovering the Parasol Tree Heart causes her to lose focus.
• Xie Xiuji: Demonstrates both competence and emotional devotion. He takes responsibility for resolving the Flowing Feather Sect issue and shows considerable restraint in caring for Song Zhizhi and protecting the unborn child.
• Qingyu: Remains affectionate and carefree, admiring Song Zhizhi without noticing the information she is withholding.
• Aunt Lan: Proves highly capable as a spy and observer. Her surveillance uncovers the Flowing Feather Sect’s suspicious and potentially dangerous strength.
• Qin Buwen: Although absent and reportedly in seclusion, he becomes the central target of Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji’s investigation because he possesses the Parasol Tree Heart.

Significant Themes

• Protective love and domestic intimacy: Xie Xiuji’s careful treatment of Song Zhizhi contrasts with his intense attraction to her, emphasizing his willingness to restrain himself for her safety.
• Hidden power and political caution: The Flowing Feather Sect’s concealed strength suggests a larger conspiracy, but Song Zhizhi must balance justice with the Sword Sect’s reputation and alliances.
• Pregnancy and uncertainty: The child’s unusual Phoenix bloodline creates anxiety and anticipation, while also reinforcing the supernatural importance of the unborn baby.
• Trust and protective deception: Song Zhizhi lies to Qingyu to spare her worry, showing that affection sometimes leads her to conceal troubling truths.
• Desire versus responsibility: Xie Xiuji’s intimate feelings are repeatedly checked by his awareness of Song Zhizhi’s pregnancy and the need to protect her.

Character Interactions

• Qingyu admires Song Zhizhi and humorously envies Xie Xiuji’s good fortune.
• Song Zhizhi conceals the truth about the Parasol Tree Heart from Qingyu.
• Aunt Lan reports her findings about the Flowing Feather Sect to Song Zhizhi, strengthening Song Zhizhi’s suspicions.
• Song Zhizhi worries over how to confront Qin Buwen legally and politically, while Xie Xiuji tells her to leave the matter to him.
• During their Spiritual Heart Art cultivation, Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji share increasingly intimate contact. Xie Xiuji ultimately restrains himself, frustrated by both his desire and the uncertain length of Song Zhizhi’s pregnancy.

Chapter Summary

Plot Points and Events

• Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji grow increasingly intimate as a married couple. Their private relationship becomes more natural and affectionate, with Xie Xiuji showing a more openly passionate side.
• After reaching the Golden Core Stage, Song Zhizhi’s cultivation slows, as expected. Despite practicing the Spiritual Heart Art with Xie Xiuji, she will likely need about a year to reach the Golden Core Middle Stage.
• Now visibly pregnant, Song Zhizhi becomes less physically agile. She continues practicing the sword for only two hours a day while devoting more time to formations and illusions.
• Her talent in formations improves dramatically. Qingyu believes that, with several more years of study, she may be able to break advanced formations with ease.
• Xie Xiuji has been secretly preparing a scheme against the Flowing Feather Sect. He plans to bait them into exposing their own wrongdoing, allowing him to destroy the sect while standing on moral and legal high ground and reclaim the Ten-Thousand-Year Parasol Tree Heart.
• Three days later, the Sword Sect sends Golden Core and Foundation Establishment disciples to challenge the Heavenly Feather Sect. Presenting the visit as an exchange of knowledge, they decisively defeat every opponent for three days straight.
• Furious at the humiliation, Sect Master Tianyu decides to use the Flowing Feather Sect’s combat-focused disciples to fight in the Heavenly Feather Sect’s place. The Flowing Feather Sect’s leader, Qin Buwen, immediately suspects that the invitation may conceal a trap, though his adviser believes Tianyu is simply trying to restore his sect’s reputation.

Character Developments

• Song Zhizhi becomes more comfortable with marital intimacy and continues to mature as both a cultivator and strategist. Pregnancy limits her physical training, but her intellectual and technical abilities—especially in formations—advance rapidly.
• Xie Xiuji reveals a more passionate and possessive side in private, while remaining calculating and patient in public affairs. His elaborate plan against the Flowing Feather Sect demonstrates his strategic intelligence and determination to recover the parasol tree heart.
• Qingyu recognizes Song Zhizhi’s extraordinary potential in formations.
• Sect Master Tianyu is shown to be highly concerned with reputation. His anger at the Sword Sect’s victories leads him to shift responsibility onto the Flowing Feather Sect.
• Qin Buwen remains cautious and suspicious, reflecting the survival instincts that have kept him alive for centuries.

Significant Themes

• Intimacy and marital trust: Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji’s relationship deepens through mutual comfort, teasing, and emotional openness.
• Growth through changing circumstances: Although pregnancy slows Song Zhizhi’s cultivation and sword training, it redirects her talents toward formations and intellectual development.
• Strategy versus brute force: Xie Xiuji and Qin Buwen rely on careful planning, while the Sword Sect dominates through direct combat.
• Pride and reputation: Sect Master Tianyu’s wounded pride motivates his decisions, showing how concern for status can lead to manipulation.
• Justice and moral authority: Xie Xiuji intends to make the Flowing Feather Sect expose itself so that its destruction appears justified rather than arbitrary.

Character Interactions

• Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji share playful, affectionate exchanges, particularly when she teases him about being “old.” He insists that he is still young, and she reassures him by praising his appearance and strength.
• Xie Xiuji places his hand on Song Zhizhi’s pregnant belly and vows to reclaim the Ten-Thousand-Year Parasol Tree Heart, while the unborn child moves beneath his palm.
• The Heavenly Feather Sect’s elders privately acknowledge that their alchemy and artifact disciples cannot match the Sword Sect’s combat specialists, prompting them to suggest using Flowing Feather Sect disciples instead.
• Qin Buwen discusses the proposed challenge with a black-robed adviser, weighing whether the Heavenly Feather Sect’s request is an innocent attempt to recover face or a hidden scheme.

Chapter Summary: “Trapping Flowing Feather Sect”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qin Buwen grows uneasy after being unable to contact Alluring Madam in the Demon Realm. The Second Elder reassures him that she is likely occupied by a crisis and remains confident that nothing can go wrong.
• To avoid exposing the Flowing Feather Sect, Qin Buwen sends five ordinary Golden Core disciples to the Heavenly Feather Sect. However, this precaution is useless: the Sword Sect’s investigation is revealed to have been a deliberate trap from the start.
• During the confrontation, Sword Sect disciples “discover” Demonic Cultivators among the Heavenly Feather Sect’s visitors. Since the Flowing Feather Sect cannot survive a thorough investigation, suspicion immediately turns against it.
• The Sword Sect and Heavenly Feather Sect surround the Flowing Feather Sect. Its protective formation is activated, sealing the sect from the outside while trapping its own disciples within.
• Qin Buwen realizes that the Sword Sect had identified the sect’s abnormalities long before the supposed sparring arrangement. He considers fighting their way out, but the Second Elder warns that the Flowing Feather Sect is severely weakened: several key elders are absent, one has died, and the Sword Sect’s disciples and powerful Sword Venerable Mingxiao far outmatch them.
• Qin Buwen proposes awakening the sect’s hidden divine artifact ahead of schedule. He believes it can defeat even Xie Xiuji and render the Sword Sect harmless.
• The Second Elder hesitates because the time is not yet right, but Qin Buwen intimidates him with his superior cultivation and reminds him that he—not the First Elder—has ultimate authority. The Second Elder submits.
• Qin Buwen orders the disciples gathered, declaring that his weapon, Devour Heaven, requires fresh blood, strongly implying that he intends to sacrifice or consume members of his own sect to awaken its power.
• Outside, the Heavenly Feather Sect repeatedly demands entry to investigate the Flowing Feather Sect’s alleged collusion with Demonic Cultivators. When no one responds and the sect’s formation remains fully activated, suspicion rises sharply. The Heavenly Feather Sect threatens to attack.
• The chapter ends with a quieter scene: Song Zhizhi wakes from a nightmare during a storm and panics after briefly believing Xie Xiuji is gone. He comforts her, revealing a tender and protective bond between them.

Character Developments

• Qin Buwen is shown to be ruthless, authoritarian, and increasingly desperate. His fear of losing to Xie Xiuji again fuels his willingness to unleash the divine artifact, even at great cost to his own sect.
• The Second Elder recognizes the danger of opposing Qin Buwen. Although he questions the timing of the plan, memories of Qin Buwen killing a disobedient predecessor force him into obedience.
• Xie Xiuji appears powerful and feared, but his interaction with Song Zhizhi emphasizes his gentler, caring side.
• Song Zhizhi is emotionally vulnerable after her nightmare, suggesting deep anxiety about losing Xie Xiuji or being separated from him.

Significant Themes

• Entrapment and manipulation: The investigation is designed to force the Flowing Feather Sect into exposing itself, regardless of how it responds.
• Power and authority: Qin Buwen’s dominance over the Second Elder reflects the principle that strength determines who has the right to rule.
• Desperation and sacrifice: Facing certain defeat, Qin Buwen is prepared to sacrifice his disciples to awaken Devour Heaven.
• Appearance versus reality: The supposed investigation and sparring match conceal a carefully arranged attack, while Qin Buwen’s cultivated gentleness masks his brutality.
• Love amid conflict: The threatening political and sectarian crisis contrasts with the intimate comfort between Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji.

Character Interactions

• Qin Buwen and the Second Elder argue over whether to awaken the divine artifact. Qin Buwen uses his overwhelming cultivation and past violence to force the Second Elder’s submission.
• The Sword Sect and Heavenly Feather Sect act together to isolate and pressure the Flowing Feather Sect, publicly presenting their actions as an investigation.
• Song Zhizhi seeks Xie Xiuji in fear after her nightmare, and he reassures her physically and emotionally, providing a warm contrast to the chapter’s tension and impending violence.

Chapter Summary

Song Zhizhi awakates from a nightmare in which Xie Xiuji is killed by a sinister, blood-covered sword wielded by Qin Buwen—or by another entity possessing Qin Buwen’s body. The dream shows an enormous amount of blood qi, resentful souls, and corpses, convincing Song Zhizhi that it may be a warning rather than an ordinary nightmare.
Xie Xiuji tells her that the Sword Sect has decided to launch a full assault on the Flowing Feather Sect the following day. He attempts to reassure her, pointing out that Qin Buwen is only at the Late Spirit Transformation Stage, while Xie Xiuji has reached the threshold of the Middle Mahayana Stage. Song Zhizhi remains worried because, in the original story, Xie Xiuji also died from being stabbed through the chest.
To protect him, Song Zhizhi gives Xie Xiuji her repaired Lifebound Spirit Sword, the Vermilion Bird Sword. Forged with Extraterrestrial Meteoric Iron and Song Zhizhi’s blood essence, the divine sword has regained its former power and gained the ability to see through illusions and destroy evil entities. Although it initially resists being used by Xie Xiuji because of his ice spiritual power, Song Zhizhi asks it to protect her husband. The sword becomes enthusiastic and promises not to let anything happen to him.
Because Song Zhizhi is heavily pregnant and cannot safely participate in the battle, she remains at the Sword Sect. Before Xie Xiuji departs, she tells him that she and their child will wait for his return. He embraces her and promises to come back safely. Their farewell emphasizes their affection, mutual concern, and the danger surrounding the coming battle.
At the Flowing Feather Sect, several Spirit Transformation cultivators struggle to break through the sect’s mountain-protecting formation. Xie Xiuji arrives and effortlessly destroys it with a single strike of his sword, demonstrating why he is regarded as the greatest Sword Cultivator in the cultivation world. However, the collapse of the formation releases a terrifying wave of blood qi.
The chapter then reveals the aftermath—or possibly the scene awaiting the attackers: blood covers the Flowing Feather Sect’s steps, and a badly wounded disciple lies near the gate. His body is riddled with sword wounds, including a slash across his neck deep enough to expose bone. The bloody handprint and desperate trails of blood suggest a massacre has already occurred or that an even more powerful evil force is active within the sect.

Character Developments and Interactions

• Song Zhizhi becomes more proactive despite her physical limitations. Rather than joining the battle, she uses her knowledge of the future and gives Xie Xiuji the Vermilion Bird Sword as protection.
• Xie Xiuji remains calm and powerful, comforting Song Zhizhi while concealing his own concern about the dream. His effortless destruction of the protective formation reinforces his status as the strongest Sword Cultivator.
• Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji show deep marital devotion. Their farewell, discussion of their unborn child, and shared spiritual connection through the Dao Companion Pact highlight their intimate bond.
• The Vermilion Bird Sword is briefly characterized as proud and temperamental, but its attitude changes when Song Zhizhi entrusts Xie Xiuji’s safety to it.

Significant Themes

• Foreknowledge and fate: Song Zhizhi’s dream may be a warning of the future, raising the question of whether Xie Xiuji’s destined death can be prevented.
• Protection and sacrifice: Song Zhizhi cannot fight directly, but she sacrifices the use of her Lifebound Sword and relies on her foresight to protect Xie Xiuji.
• Love amid danger: The couple’s affection and promise to reunite contrast with the looming violence.
• Good versus evil: The Vermilion Bird Sword’s ability to expose delusions and destroy evil directly opposes the mysterious blood sword and the possible entity possessing Qin Buwen.
• Escalating supernatural threat: The blood qi, resentful souls, massacre, and mysterious wounded disciple suggest that the assault on the Flowing Feather Sect will involve more than an ordinary sect battle.

Chapter 131 Summary

Plot and major events

Xie Xiuji and his companions arrive at the Flowing Feather Sect after discovering a corpse bearing faint demonic energy. The sect has been massacred: disciples lie dead throughout the grounds, all killed brutally and with a single overwhelming force. Xie orders weaker disciples to withdraw while Nascent Soul and Spirit Transformation cultivators seal off the area.
In the main hall plaza, Xie finds hundreds of corpses and encounters the blood-soaked Sect Master, Qin Buwen. Xie recognizes that Qin has been possessed—or partially controlled—by the Sword Spirit of the demonic sword Heaven Devourer. The sword reveals that it has slaughtered 725 people and absorbed their cultivation, elevating Qin to the Mahayana realm. Qin, still partly conscious, boasts that he can now defeat Xie.

Character developments

• Xie Xiuji remains calm, perceptive, and decisive. His powerful Divine Sense allows him to recognize the demonic nature of the massacre, identify the danger, and protect his disciples by ordering them away. His unwavering Dao heart also explains why Heaven Devourer failed to possess him in the past.
• Qin Buwen is revealed to be the former fellow disciple and companion of Xie. Five hundred years earlier, he betrayed the Heavenly Feather Sect after being tempted by Heaven Devourer’s promise of power. His jealousy and resentment made him vulnerable, and he eventually became the Flowing Feather Sect’s Sect Master while secretly turning it into a base for Demonic Cultivators.
• Heaven Devourer’s Sword Spirit emerges as the true manipulator. It originally coveted Xie’s body but settled for Qin, gradually influencing and possessing him. Qin has voluntarily merged with the Sword Spirit, leaving the two personalities intermittently struggling for control.

Character interactions

Xie and Qin’s reunion is tense and deeply personal. Their former relationship as fellow disciples contrasts with their present roles as opposing cultivators. Heaven Devourer taunts Xie over its failed attempt to possess him, while Qin boasts about the strength gained through the massacre. Xie’s recognition of the Sword Spirit exposes the truth behind Qin’s transformation and confirms that their confrontation is rooted in a five-hundred-year-old betrayal.

Significant themes

The chapter emphasizes the danger of unchecked desire, jealousy, and reliance on forbidden power. It also explores possession and the loss of personal agency, as Qin’s choices gradually allow the demonic sword to dominate him. Xie’s steadfast Dao heart serves as a contrast to Qin’s instability, highlighting discipline and moral resolve versus ambition and corruption. The massacre further presents the horrifying human cost of demonic cultivation and the consequences of concealing past wrongdoing.

Summary of “The Qin Buwen Massacre”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xie Xiuji reveals that his cultivation has advanced dramatically since reaching the Mahayana Stage, already showing signs of another breakthrough.
• Qin Buwen is enraged and bewildered by Xie Xiuji’s rapid progress. He believes his modified Heaven Devourer Sword will give him the advantage by suppressing Xie’s Blood Drinker Sword.
• Xie acknowledges that the Blood Drinker has been weakened by the surrounding baleful energy, but instead of relying on it, he summons the Vermilion Bird Sword.
• The Heaven Devourer Sword Spirit recognizes the Vermilion Bird Sword as its natural nemesis and panics. The Vermilion Bird Sword has been restored to full strength by Song Zhizhi and can counter evil weapons, including the Heaven Devourer.
• Xie declares that he will destroy the Heaven Devourer Sword, which previously escaped him five hundred years ago, and melt it down so it can no longer harm others.
• The Heaven Devourer Sword Spirit attempts to flee, but Xie attacks before it can escape. Their battle quickly devastates the Flowing Feather Sect: the main hall is destroyed, the mountaintop is flattened, and the surrounding elders struggle to maintain a protective barrier.
• Although the Heaven Devourer Sword Spirit controls Qin Buwen’s body and uses sword techniques more effectively than Qin himself, the Vermilion Bird Sword weakens its power by roughly forty percent. Xie gradually gains the upper hand.

Character Developments

• Xie Xiuji displays overwhelming confidence and strength. His calm demeanor shifts into cold determination once he confronts the Heaven Devourer Sword, showing that he views the battle as both revenge and a duty to eliminate a dangerous evil.
• Qin Buwen suffers a complete reversal of fortune. His pride in reaching the Spirit Transformation Stage and modifying the Heaven Devourer Sword collapses when he realizes Xie is far stronger and possesses an even more powerful weapon.
• The Heaven Devourer Sword Spirit is exposed as powerful but cowardly and self-serving. Despite its divine-artifact status, it fears the Vermilion Bird Sword and tries to escape rather than fight fairly.
• The Vermilion Bird Sword is energetic, boastful, and fiercely protective of Xie. Its loyalty reflects Song Zhizhi’s influence and reinforces the importance of Xie’s relationship with his dao companion.
• Song Zhizhi, though absent from the battle, is crucial to the events: she repaired the Vermilion Bird Sword and is responsible for the emotional and practical support that has helped Xie progress.

Significant Themes

• The power of companionship: Xie repeatedly attributes his strength and advancement to having a dao companion, humorously contrasting himself with Qin Buwen’s isolated life.
• Righteousness versus evil: The Vermilion Bird Sword’s righteous, purifying power directly opposes the Heaven Devourer Sword’s baleful and destructive nature.
• Pride and humiliation: Qin’s confidence is shattered when his supposed advantages prove meaningless, turning his planned victory into a total defeat.
• Nemesis and justice: Xie’s intention to destroy the Heaven Devourer fulfills an old grievance from five hundred years earlier and represents the removal of a longstanding threat.
• Comic relief amid serious conflict: Xie’s repeated statement that he succeeds because he has a dao companion, along with the Vermilion Bird Sword’s exaggerated complaints and boasts, lightens the otherwise catastrophic battle.

Character Interactions

• Qin challenges Xie and boasts about the Heaven Devourer Sword’s ability to suppress the Blood Drinker.
• Xie counters Qin’s arrogance by revealing the Vermilion Bird Sword and calmly explaining that his advantage comes from having a dao companion.
• The Heaven Devourer Sword Spirit reacts with shock and fear upon recognizing its nemesis, while the Vermilion Bird Sword taunts it and eagerly seeks a confrontation.
• Xie and the Heaven Devourer Sword engage in a destructive aerial duel, with their opposing sword energies—righteous flame and evil baleful force—colliding until the Vermilion Bird Sword’s superiority becomes decisive.

Chapter 133 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Vermilion Bird Sword, which embodies fire, completely suppresses the yin-aligned Heaven Devourer Sword. Its attacks begin cracking the Heaven Devourer Sword’s blade.
• To protect itself, the Heaven Devourer Sword Spirit uses Qin Buwen’s body as a shield, showing no concern for Qin’s survival. Qin’s own consciousness fights back for control of his body.
• Xie Xiuji exploits the brief disruption caused by their internal struggle, steadily injuring Qin Buwen. Following his usual battle strategy, he turns small advantages into an overwhelming victory.
• Xie destroys Qin Buwen’s Dantian with the Vermilion Bird Sword, then pierces his brow and destroys his Primordial Spirit. Qin Buwen dies, while the Heaven Devourer Sword Spirit retreats into its damaged sword body.
• The lively and aggressive Vermilion Bird Sword pursues the Heaven Devourer Sword, scolding it for sacrificing humans and attempting to seize its master’s “man.”
• Xie Xiuji strengthens the Vermilion Bird Sword with his spiritual power and delivers a final slash that cuts the Heaven Devourer Sword in two, killing its sword spirit.
• He collects the broken sword for later destruction, searches Qin Buwen’s body and storage pouch for evidence—particularly possible heartwood from the Ten-Thousand-Year Parasol Tree—and makes certain Qin cannot revive as a corpse.
• Upon leaving the Flowing Feather Sect, Xie explains that Qin Buwen practiced demonic arts and sacrificed the sect’s disciples to refine the Heaven Devourer Sword. All ordinary disciples are dead, but several Spirit Transformation elders remain hidden in the forbidden grounds. Xie orders the gathered cultivators to capture and interrogate them while he attends to other business.

Character Developments

• Xie Xiuji: Demonstrates his exceptional swordsmanship, tactical patience, and ruthless decisiveness. He prioritizes destroying Qin’s Dantian and Primordial Spirit, eliminates every possible avenue of resurrection, and calmly manages the aftermath. Despite the battle, his thoughts turn to returning home to prepare lunch for Zhizhi, revealing his domestic affection and attachment.
• Qin Buwen: His desperation becomes clear as he struggles to preserve his body and consciousness. Although initially persuaded to cooperate with the Heaven Devourer Sword Spirit, he ultimately loses control, his body, and his life.
• Heaven Devourer Sword Spirit: Reveals its selfish and manipulative nature by sacrificing Qin’s body without hesitation. It is powerful but becomes helpless once Xie gains the upper hand and is ultimately destroyed.
• Vermilion Bird Sword: Displays a strong independent personality, being both formidable in battle and extremely talkative. It is fiercely loyal to its master and protective of Xie’s relationship with his “man,” Zhizhi.

Significant Themes

• Exploitation and betrayal: The Heaven Devourer Sword Spirit treats Qin as disposable, mirroring Qin Buwen’s own willingness to sacrifice his disciples.
• The consequences of demonic cultivation: Qin’s pursuit of power leads to the slaughter of his entire sect and the destruction of the sword he hoped would help him dominate the Cultivation World.
• The importance of tactical advantage: Xie’s victory reflects his mastery of gradually expanding small openings rather than relying only on overwhelming force.
• Justice and extermination of evil: Xie not only defeats Qin and the sword but also ensures neither can return, while exposing the remaining demonic cultivators for punishment.
• Loyalty and companionship: The Vermilion Bird Sword’s loyalty contrasts sharply with the Heaven Devourer Sword’s treachery and highlights Xie’s close, affectionate bond with Zhizhi.

Character Interactions

• Qin Buwen and the Heaven Devourer Sword Spirit struggle internally over control of Qin’s body, with the sword spirit repeatedly pressuring Qin to sacrifice himself for their shared survival.
• Xie Xiuji exploits their conflict, attacks Qin with precision, and ends the struggle by destroying both Qin’s body and Primordial Spirit.
• The Vermilion Bird Sword verbally berates the Heaven Devourer Sword while relentlessly attacking it, creating a humorous contrast with the otherwise brutal battle.
• After returning to the sect entrance, Xie gives the assembled cultivators instructions to capture the surviving elders, positioning them to complete the purge of the Flowing Feather Sect’s demonic faction.

Chapter Summary:

The Patricidal Enemy

Key Plot Points and Events

• After defeating the greatest threat, Xie Xiuji leaves the battlefield, confident that the remaining Spirit Transformation-stage Demonic Cultivators pose no serious danger.
• Despite everyone assuming he is rushing off to handle another important matter, his real priority is returning home to Song Zhizhi—and ensuring he no longer smells of blood so she will not worry.
• At the Sword Sect’s mountain gate, Song Zhizhi eagerly greets him and checks whether he has been injured. Xie Xiuji reassures her, credits her assistance for the smooth victory, and immediately offers to cook for her.
• Back at Clear Snow Peak, Xie Xiuji changes clothes, prepares lunch, and displays the treasures he looted from Qin Buwen.
• Among the spoils are three pieces that may be Ten-Thousand-Year Parasol Tree Hearts, along with pills, weapons, magical treasures, and rare materials. Song Zhizhi decides to wait for Aunt Lan to verify the mysterious wood.
• While sorting the loot, Song Zhizhi opens a small porcelain bottle. It suddenly explodes and releases an intense mass of flames.
• Xie Xiuji instinctively shields Song Zhizhi with his body and a Barrier, carrying her out of the burning building. Although the Barrier is nearly destroyed and his back is exposed to extreme heat, he emerges mostly unharmed and focuses entirely on checking Song Zhizhi for injuries.
• Song Zhizhi realizes that the flames are Phoenix True Fire. She confirms this by releasing the Phoenix fire within her own body, which reacts to the flames from the bottle.
• Qingyu and Aunt Lan return after sensing that the protective Formation around Song Zhizhi’s courtyard has been destroyed. Qingyu identifies the fire as belonging to His Highness Feng Ling, raising the possibility that Feng Ling—or other Phoenixes—may still exist.

Character Development

• Xie Xiuji: His fearsome image as the Sword Venerable contrasts with his domestic and deeply affectionate nature. He prioritizes Song Zhizhi’s comfort, cooks for her, and becomes intensely protective when she is endangered. His immediate self-blame after the explosion shows how seriously he takes responsibility for her safety.
• Song Zhizhi: She remains attentive to Xie Xiuji’s well-being, checking him for injuries after battle. She also demonstrates strong knowledge and insight by recognizing the possible Parasol Tree Hearts and identifying the Phoenix True Fire.
• Qingyu: She acts quickly and responsibly after detecting the destruction of the courtyard’s Formation, protecting the mountain from the spreading fire.
• Aunt Lan: Her presence provides important knowledge about the Phoenix True Fire and connects the discovery to the wider mystery surrounding Feng Ling and the Phoenix race.

Significant Themes

• Love expressed through everyday care: Xie Xiuji’s return home, cleansing himself, cooking, and worrying over Song Zhizhi reveal that intimate domestic actions matter as much to him as his battlefield victories.
• Protective devotion: Xie Xiuji places himself between Song Zhizhi and danger without hesitation, while Song Zhizhi likewise worries about his injuries.
• Hidden power and dangerous treasures: Qin Buwen’s possessions contain both valuable resources and deadly remnants, demonstrating that the spoils of the enemy cannot be trusted blindly.
• Mystery and foreshadowing: The Phoenix True Fire raises major questions about Feng Ling’s fate, the survival of other Phoenixes, and Qin Buwen’s connection to them.
• Contrast between appearances and reality: Others interpret Xie Xiuji’s solemn departure as preparation for another major battle, while his actual concern is simply returning to cook for his beloved.

Important Character Interactions

• Song Zhizhi greets Xie Xiuji warmly and checks that he has not been hurt.
• Xie Xiuji reassures her, praises her contribution, and offers to prepare her meal.
• The couple sorts through Qin Buwen’s loot together, combining Song Zhizhi’s knowledge with Xie Xiuji’s collected spoils.
• When the bottle explodes, Xie Xiuji protects Song Zhizhi physically, while she quickly identifies the flames and redirects the situation toward an important discovery.
• Qingyu and Aunt Lan arrive to investigate the destruction, with Qingyu containing the fire and Aunt Lan helping identify its origin as Feng Ling’s Phoenix True Fire.

Chapter 135 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Song Zhizhi tells Aunt Lan what happened and shows her the three pieces of wood. Aunt Lan confirms that they are Ten-Thousand-Year Parasol Tree Hearts.
• Aunt Lan recognizes the Phoenix True Fire found in Qin Buwen’s storage pouch as belonging to Feng Ling, Song Zhizhi’s deceased father.
• She reveals that Feng Ling was betrayed and fatally wounded by Shen Zhi, a human-wolf hybrid whom Feng Ling had once rescued and trusted. Shen Zhi survived and may now have reached the Mahayana Stage.
• Song Zhizhi vows to kill Shen Zhi and avenge her father, though Aunt Lan warns that she is not yet strong enough.
• Qingyu and Aunt Lan advise Song Zhizhi to refine Feng Ling’s Phoenix True Fire, since her bloodline should allow her to absorb it.
• Song Zhizhi begins refining the fire, but Feng Ling’s flames become violently destructive inside her meridians. Her own Phoenix True Fire struggles to suppress them.
• Her unborn child suddenly releases a third stream of Phoenix True Fire, helping Song Zhizhi overpower and absorb the first wisp.
• Empowered by this success, Song Zhizhi continues refining the remaining flames. Her cultivation and aura steadily grow stronger.
• Xie Xiuji remains outside the protective formation to guard her, despite assurances that she is safe.
• When Song Zhizhi reaches the final cluster of Phoenix True Fire, she consults her unborn child. The baby happily swallows the remaining flame without harm.

Character Developments

• Song Zhizhi: Learns the identity of her father’s killer and accepts the responsibility of avenging Feng Ling. She also grows significantly stronger by refining his Phoenix True Fire.
• Aunt Lan: Provides crucial information about Feng Ling’s past and Shen Zhi’s betrayal, while encouraging Song Zhizhi to focus on strengthening herself before seeking revenge.
• Xie Xiuji: Shows deep concern and devotion by standing guard throughout Song Zhizhi’s dangerous refinement. He supports her desire to personally avenge Feng Ling.
• The unborn child: Demonstrates remarkable power by assisting Song Zhizhi and consuming the final portion of Phoenix True Fire. The child’s abilities appear unusually strong even before birth.
• Qingyu: Offers practical guidance and humorously withdraws with Aunt Lan to avoid witnessing Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji’s affectionate interaction.

Significant Themes

• Betrayal and vengeance: Feng Ling’s murder by a trusted subordinate establishes Shen Zhi as the central enemy and gives Song Zhizhi a personal mission.
• Inheritance and bloodline: Song Zhizhi inherits not only Feng Ling’s Phoenix Bloodline but also his fire, linking her more closely to her father and his legacy.
• Family protection: The unborn child actively protects its mother, while Xie Xiuji remains vigilant beside her.
• Growth through hardship: Song Zhizhi’s painful refinement represents both physical cultivation and her preparation to confront the powerful enemy responsible for her father’s death.
• Trust and devotion: Feng Ling’s past trust was betrayed, contrasting with the loyalty shown by Song Zhizhi, Xie Xiuji, Aunt Lan, Qingyu, and the unborn child.

Character Interactions

• Aunt Lan shares Feng Ling’s history with Song Zhizhi and urges her not to act recklessly.
• Song Zhizhi promises Aunt Lan that she will avenge Feng Ling.
• Xie Xiuji silently supports Song Zhizhi and reassures her through his presence.
• Qingyu encourages Song Zhizhi to absorb the Phoenix True Fire and lightheartedly retreats with Aunt Lan.
• Song Zhizhi communicates tenderly with her unborn child, whose “chirps” guide and assist her during the refinement.

Chapter Summary

Key plot points and events

• After Song Zhizhi refines the Phoenix True Fire, she discovers that the unborn child has swallowed a ball of it without suffering any harm. Instead, the child’s aura becomes stronger.
• Shortly afterward, Song Zhizhi’s water breaks unexpectedly, revealing that she is going into labor three months early.
• Xie Xiuji is initially stunned but quickly carries her to Qingyu’s House because Song Zhizhi’s own home was destroyed.
• Qingyu and Aunt Lan determine that the premature labor was caused by the child absorbing the Phoenix True Fire. The energy apparently accelerated the child’s development and prepared it for birth.
• Song Zhizhi begins experiencing painful contractions. Xie Xiuji attempts to ease her suffering with spiritual power, but it has no effect.
• Xie insists on staying with Song Zhizhi during the birth, but she asks him to leave because his presence makes it harder for her to relax and focus.
• Aunt Lan takes Xie outside to boil water, retrieve the Heart of the Earth Stone, and prepare the Hatching Nest. The chapter ends with Xie listening helplessly to Song Zhizhi’s muffled cries from outside.

Character developments

• Song Zhizhi: Remains calm and practical despite the sudden premature labor. She reassures Xie and focuses on protecting both the child and her own dignity, even worrying about him seeing her in a disheveled state during childbirth.
• Xie Xiuji: His normally composed demeanor collapses under fear and helplessness. He becomes deeply anxious, desperate to stay beside Song Zhizhi, and blames himself for the pain she is enduring because of their child.
• Qingyu: Takes charge of the emergency, providing medical and practical guidance while recognizing that Xie’s anxiety could interfere with the birth.
• Aunt Lan: Uses her knowledge of phoenixes to explain the child’s condition and guides Xie in preparing for the birth.
• The unborn child: Demonstrates extraordinary abilities by absorbing Phoenix True Fire while still in the womb, gaining strength and triggering its early birth.

Significant themes

• Parental love and responsibility: Xie’s fear and self-reproach show how strongly he already feels responsible for Song Zhizhi and their child.
• Power and inherited nature: The child’s ability to consume Phoenix True Fire suggests exceptional phoenix-related potential and emphasizes the supernatural nature of the pregnancy.
• Helplessness versus support: Xie cannot remove Song Zhizhi’s physical pain, but his desire to remain with her shows that emotional support is still important, even when he must ultimately step aside.
• Strength beneath vulnerability: Song Zhizhi suffers intensely but continues to reassure others and make decisive choices during the crisis.
• Humor amid tension: Xie’s pale, terrified appearance and refusal to leave make him look as though he is the one giving birth, adding lightness to an otherwise fearful scene.

Character interactions

• Song Zhizhi and Xie share a tender but tense exchange: he wants to remain at her side, while she firmly sends him away for her own comfort.
• Xie’s attempts to comfort Song Zhizhi reveal his devotion, while her teasing concern about his frown briefly softens the scene.
• Qingyu acts as the practical authority, directing Xie and managing the birth preparations.
• Aunt Lan explains the child’s unusual condition and persuades Xie to help outside rather than remain in the room.
• The chapter closes on Xie’s emotional isolation outside the room, where he can do little except listen and worry.

Chapter Summary: “Safety Education”

Key plot points and events

• Aunt Lan reassures Xie Xiuji that Song Zhizhi’s pregnancy and delivery are progressing safely, then distracts him by teaching him to prepare a Phoenix incubation nest.
• Following her instructions, Xie Xiuji weaves a nest from a thousand-year-old parasol tree branch and fills it with warm feathers, soft cloth, fragrant medicinal herbs, and the Heart of the Earth Stone.
• Aunt Lan explains Phoenix childcare: the nest must remain warm, dry, and clean, and Xie Xiuji should provide the egg with spiritual power every day to help it hatch.
• While Xie Xiuji anxiously listens to Song Zhizhi’s restrained labor sounds, a thunderclap announces the birth. Birds from across the surrounding area fly to Clear Snow Peak, sensing the arrival of a pure-blooded Phoenix.
• Qingyu delivers a fist-sized white egg marked with red patterns. Song Zhizhi quickly recovers, while Xie Xiuji focuses first on comforting her rather than examining the child.
• Qingyu gives the egg to Xie Xiuji and instructs him to replenish its spiritual power before placing it in the nest. The egg absorbs his energy and emits its first chirp.
• Song Zhizhi translates the baby’s Phoenix cry as “Thank you, Daddy,” deeply moving Xie Xiuji.
• When Song Zhizhi takes the egg and strokes it, the baby reacts playfully, causing the egg to roll toward the edge of the bed, creating an immediate danger.

Character developments

• Xie Xiuji displays intense anxiety and helplessness during the birth, but channels his worry into carefully preparing the nest. His tender care for Song Zhizhi and emotional reaction to being called “Daddy” reveal his growing confidence and affection as a father.
• Song Zhizhi remains strong and optimistic after childbirth. She quickly regains her energy, jokes about fighting, and warmly embraces her new role as a mother. Her ability to understand the unborn Phoenix highlights her unique bond with the child.
• Aunt Lan acts as a calm mentor, teaching Xie Xiuji practical Phoenix-rearing knowledge and reassuring him throughout the delivery.
• Qingyu serves as the strict, practical caretaker, ensuring Song Zhizhi rests properly and explaining how to care for the newborn egg.
• The Phoenix child demonstrates extraordinary intelligence by communicating before hatching and showing affection toward both parents.

Significant themes

• Parenthood and preparation: Xie Xiuji’s nest-building reflects his attempt to prepare emotionally and practically for fatherhood.
• Family affection: The scene emphasizes the tenderness between Xie Xiuji and Song Zhizhi and their immediate love for their child.
• Tradition and lineage: The arrival of a pure-blooded Phoenix revives a rare and significant bloodline, drawing birds from across the region.
• Care amid danger: Even joyful moments require caution; the fragile egg’s playful movement shows that parenting involves constant vigilance.
• Communication and intimacy: Song Zhizhi’s ability to interpret the baby’s cries creates a special maternal connection, while the baby’s “Thank you, Daddy” strengthens its bond with Xie Xiuji.

Character interactions

• Aunt Lan guides Xie Xiuji through nest-making and incubation.
• Xie Xiuji anxiously listens for Song Zhizhi during labor but obeys the instruction to remain outside.
• After the birth, he comforts Song Zhizhi by wiping her sweat, kissing her forehead, and holding her close.
• Qingyu scolds Song Zhizhi for wanting to resume fighting and places the newborn egg in Xie Xiuji’s care.
• Song Zhizhi interprets the Phoenix baby’s words for Xie Xiuji, allowing father and child to share their first meaningful exchange.
• The chapter ends with Song Zhizhi and the baby playfully interacting, just as the egg rolls dangerously close to the bed’s edge.

Chapter Summary — Page 138

Key Plot Points and Events

• Little One, newly hatched but still enclosed in his egg, tries to run out of the room. Xie Xiuji stops him while Song Zhizhi scolds him for being reckless.
• To teach Little One about danger, Song Zhizhi drops an ordinary egg from the bed, demonstrating how easily an eggshell can shatter. Frightened by the sight, Little One promises not to run around.
• Aunt Lan brings in an elaborate bird’s nest woven by Xie Xiuji from Chinese parasol branches, feathers, merfolk silk, and the Heart of the Earth Stone.
• Little One happily accepts the nest, and Song Zhizhi translates his approval to Xie Xiuji, making him visibly proud and joyful as a new father.
• Since Song Zhizhi’s home on Clear Snow Peak was destroyed by Phoenix True Fire, she and Little One move temporarily into Xie Xiuji’s Scarlet Cloud Hall.
• Xie Xiuji has transformed the courtyard into a warm, springlike environment and prepared a children’s room, demonstrating how thoroughly he has planned for their family.
• Little One falls asleep from exhaustion in his nest, while Xie Xiuji affectionately watches over him.
• The chapter explains Song Zhizhi’s post-childbirth “confinement,” which involves stabilizing cultivation rather than physical recovery. Thanks to the Spiritual Heart Art, she suffers no cultivation loss and continues advancing rapidly.

Character Developments

• Song Zhizhi becomes protective and disciplinary as a mother, trying to teach Little One basic safety despite the difficulty of communicating with a newborn.
• Xie Xiuji reveals a softer, more domestic side. He restrains Little One, creates a beautiful nest, prepares a nursery, and openly expresses pride and tenderness toward his child.
• Little One begins developing a distinct personality: curious, energetic, affectionate, and easily frightened. He already understands and responds to his parents, calling Song Zhizhi “Mother” and accepting Xie Xiuji’s nest.
• Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji settle more fully into their roles as parents and as a family.

Significant Themes

• Parenthood and protection: Song Zhizhi’s egg demonstration humorously emphasizes the dangers of the world and her determination to keep Little One safe.
• Domestic love and family: Xie Xiuji’s preparations for the child show that love is expressed through care, effort, and creating a secure home.
• The contrast between public image and private self: Though Xie Xiuji is known as a cold and unfeeling Sword Venerable, he is gentle, affectionate, and emotionally invested with his family.
• Growth and renewal: The transformed courtyard, budding trees, and blooming flowers symbolize the family’s new beginning.
• Cultivation and partnership: Song Zhizhi’s continued advancement reflects the strength of her cultivation partnership with Xie Xiuji and places her alongside her exceptionally talented sister, Song Miaomiao.

Character Interactions

• Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji cooperate in restraining and caring for Little One.
• Song Zhizhi acts as mediator between Little One’s chirps and Xie Xiuji, translating the baby’s praise of the nest.
• Xie Xiuji’s pride after receiving Little One’s approval deepens the emotional bond between father and child.
• Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji share a warm, intimate moment as they admire their sleeping child and adjust to family life.

Chapter Summary: “Baby’s Nickname”

Plot and events

After giving birth, Song Zhizhi realizes that the immense spiritual energy required for childbirth has reduced her cultivation from the Late Golden Core Stage to the Middle Golden Core Stage. She views this as beneficial because it gives her mental state time to catch up, reducing the risk of qi deviation. She begins meditating to stabilize her realm while Xie Xiuji cares for their newborn and prepares her meals.

Domestic life

Xie Xiuji consults a postpartum nourishment guide and cooks several restorative dishes, including fish head tofu soup, steamed minced meat, steamed egg with goji berries, and chicken soup. Song Zhizhi eats everything, spends time with the baby, bathes, and then notices postpartum swelling and discomfort.

Character developments

Song Zhizhi shows both physical vulnerability and continued confidence in handling her own recovery, though she becomes shy when explaining the treatment she needs. Xie Xiuji, despite being highly capable in combat and healing injuries, is inexperienced with postpartum care and becomes visibly flustered. He nevertheless responds attentively and gently, using spiritual power and massage techniques to relieve her discomfort.

Character interactions

Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji share an intimate moment while the baby sleeps nearby. Xie Xiuji creates a barrier to protect the child from noise and spiritual perception, then carefully helps her according to her instructions. Their interaction becomes flirtatious and emotionally charged, but Xie Xiuji ultimately refuses to go further because she has only just given birth. He comforts her and tells her to rest, demonstrating concern and restraint. Song Zhizhi, meanwhile, feels guilty for arousing him without allowing the encounter to continue.

Themes

The chapter emphasizes marital intimacy, mutual trust, postpartum care, and the contrast between powerful cultivators and ordinary domestic or bodily concerns. It also highlights Xie Xiuji’s caring, domestic side and the couple’s growing comfort and playfulness within their marriage. The baby’s presence reinforces their new family dynamic, even though the child’s nickname is not yet revealed in this excerpt.

Chapter 140 Summary

Plot Points and Events

• Song Zhizhi and Xie Xiuji share an intimate encounter, with Xie initially appearing reserved but gradually becoming more confident.
• The next morning, Song Zhizhi discovers that Xie has prepared crucian carp and tofu soup and soybean-braised pork trotters. She realizes these dishes are traditionally believed to increase milk production.
• Xie insists he merely followed recipes from a postpartum diet guide and claims he did not know their effects. Song remains suspicious that he may have knowingly taken advantage of the situation.
• After eating the dishes—and accidentally drinking extra soup—Song becomes uncomfortably engorged. Once the baby falls asleep, she asks Xie for help.
• Xie carries her into the Spirit Spring bathing pool and assists her, though the scene becomes another intimate encounter rather than a purely practical act of help.
• Because their baby is an egg with an unusual bloodline, Song and Xie decide to conceal its nature from others.
• They begin living in seclusion on Red Cloud Peak, spending their days cultivating, caring for the baby, and enjoying private time together.
• A week later, Song still requires Xie’s nightly assistance because the baby does not need milk. The chapter ends with her watching the baby roll around in a new nest Xie has woven.

Character Developments

• Song Zhizhi: Becomes increasingly comfortable teasing Xie and directly expressing her needs, though she remains easily embarrassed by their intimacy. She is also practical and cautious about protecting the baby’s identity.
• Xie Xiuji: Shows domestic attentiveness by cooking for Song and making a nest for the baby. Although initially inexperienced and restrained, he learns quickly and becomes more confident in both caring for Song and participating in their relationship.
• The baby: Its unusual egg form and hidden bloodline become central to the couple’s decision to withdraw from society. Despite being unable to drink milk, it is energetic and playful.

Significant Themes

• Marital intimacy and mutual dependence: Physical closeness is portrayed as part of Song and Xie’s growing relationship and domestic life.
• Domestic partnership: Cooking, childcare, and crafting the baby’s nest show the couple settling into a shared routine.
• Privacy and protection: Their decision to hide the baby’s bloodline reflects their concern about outside dangers and the need to protect their family.
• Humor and embarrassment: The chapter uses the unintended effects of the food and Song’s awkwardness to create playful tension between the couple.
• Adaptation to parenthood: Although their child’s nature is extraordinary, Song and Xie gradually adjust to caring for it as parents.

Character Interactions

• Song teases Xie about making the postpartum dishes deliberately, while Xie innocently maintains that he only followed the cookbook.
• Song complains about the food’s effects but ultimately asks Xie to help her, demonstrating growing trust despite her embarrassment.
• Xie responds attentively and confidently, though his actions blur the line between assistance and taking advantage of the intimate opportunity.
• Together, Song and Xie discuss and agree to conceal the baby’s unusual identity, reinforcing their cooperation and shared commitment as a family.