Chapter Summaries

Key plot points and events

• In Suotuo City, Lin Xiao encounters Xiao Wu and Tang San just before the Shrek story begins. His Goddess Codex System binds Xiao Wu, setting her affection at 10 and granting him an immediate skill draw.
• Lin Xiao draws Xiao Wu’s Invincible Golden Body. The system enhances it into Thirty-Second Invincibility, which also multiplies his strength tenfold while active.
• He discovers a major limitation: he has no Martial Soul or Soul Power, so he may not be able to use the skill. A beginner mission offers to solve this by granting him a Martial Soul awakening and level-20 innate Soul Power if he spends time in the same room as Xiao Wu.
• Xiao Wu and Tang San explore the bustling city. Xiao Wu briefly locks eyes with Lin Xiao, then moves on. Lin Xiao returns to the Rose Hotel, where Tang San is fighting Dai Mubai and Xiao Wu is watching—giving Lin Xiao a chance to approach her.

Character developments and interactions

• Lin Xiao is calculating and ambitious: he studies the system’s affection thresholds, plans to raise Xiao Wu’s affection, and looks for a way to complete his mission. He is impressed by his powerful new skill but recognizes that he needs Soul Power to use it.
• Xiao Wu is energetic and curious about Suotuo City. Her brief, unexplained pause and prolonged eye contact with Lin Xiao catch Tang San’s attention.
• Tang San is protective of Xiao Wu and grows jealous and insecure when he sees her looking at Lin Xiao. He reaches for her hand, but she has already walked ahead.
• Lin Xiao’s first encounter with Xiao Wu is silent but consequential: he deliberately leaves without speaking, while Tang San interprets her attention as a possible sign of interest.

Significant themes

• Power and dependence: Lin Xiao gains an extraordinary skill, but without Soul Power it may be unusable.
• Ambition and manipulation: The system turns relationships into measurable affection levels and rewards, prompting Lin Xiao to strategize around Xiao Wu.
• Jealousy and rivalry: Tang San’s anxiety over Xiao Wu’s attention foreshadows competition with Lin Xiao.

Key plot points and events

• Lin Xiao arrives at the hotel while Tang San and Dai Mubai are fighting over a room. He strikes up a conversation with Xiao Wu, drawing her attention away from the duel.
• Seeing Lin Xiao beside Xiao Wu, Tang San feels jealous and threatened. During the fight, he sends Blue Silver Grass toward them.
• Lin Xiao shields Xiao Wu and is struck, coughing up blood. Though his injury is not severe, Xiao Wu believes he is badly hurt and grows concerned.
• After Tang San and Dai Mubai stop fighting, Dai Mubai says he looks forward to seeing them at Shrek Academy. Tang San approaches Xiao Wu, who scolds him for his reckless attack.
• Lin Xiao says he must leave the city because he cannot afford a room. Xiao Wu insists he stay with her and Tang San, arguing that they owe him for his injury. Despite Tang San’s objections, she decides the matter.

Character developments and interactions

• Lin Xiao deliberately uses conversation and a staged appearance of injury to win Xiao Wu’s sympathy. His plan succeeds: her affection for him rises, and she offers him a place to stay.
• Xiao Wu shows her protective, compassionate nature. She treats Lin Xiao as someone she must help and, for the first time here, openly criticizes Tang San.
• Tang San becomes increasingly jealous of Lin Xiao, interpreting his closeness to Xiao Wu as a threat. He resents Xiao Wu’s concern for Lin Xiao and struggles to conceal his hostility.
• Tang San and Dai Mubai continue their contest; Tang San’s experience and techniques help him keep the stronger Dai Mubai at a disadvantage until the fight ends.

Significant themes

• Affection as strategy: Lin Xiao believes cleverness and timing can win Xiao Wu’s feelings more effectively than simple sincerity.
• Jealousy and rivalry: Tang San’s sense of loss turns into anger as Xiao Wu’s attention shifts toward Lin Xiao.
• Compassion and responsibility: Xiao Wu’s insistence that they care for Lin Xiao reflects her strong sense of fairness and duty.
• Perception versus reality: Lin Xiao’s injury is real but exaggerated in appearance, while Xiao Wu’s worry and Tang San’s suspicions shape how the event is understood.

Key plot points

• Tang San and Xiao Wu share a hotel suite with Lin Xiao, who watches Tang San’s awkward, supposedly innocent behavior with private amusement.
• Lin Xiao completes his starter mission and receives level-twenty innate Soul Power, awakens the Four Swords of Zhu Xian Martial Soul, and gains Spirit Hall certification. His system also unlocks an affinity-check feature.
• He checks Xiao Wu’s affinity for Tang San: 75, between close friendship and romantic love. Lin Xiao’s own affinity with Xiao Wu is only 15.
• Xiao Wu offers to have Tang San buy Lin Xiao clothes because Lin Xiao’s are bloodstained. Lin Xiao says he plans to apply to Shrek Academy; Xiao Wu is excited to learn that she and Tang San plan to attend the same school.
• As Lin Xiao and Xiao Wu chat, his affinity with her rises to 20. Tang San grows increasingly jealous and leaves to buy Lin Xiao clothes.
• After Lin Xiao goes to wash, Tang San questions Xiao Wu about her closeness to him. She says they get along and that Tang San should take responsibility for injuring him. Tang San regrets having struck Lin Xiao, since that is what led to him staying with them.

Character developments and interactions

• Lin Xiao gains major power and a new way to track relationships. He sees Xiao Wu’s growing attention as an opportunity to raise her affinity and deliberately keeps the conversation going.
• Xiao Wu is warm and considerate toward Lin Xiao, inviting him into her plans and readily treating him as a friend. Her easy manner contrasts with her ignorance of romantic subtext.
• Tang San becomes possessive and unsettled as Xiao Wu focuses on Lin Xiao. Though he tries to hide his displeasure, his jealousy emerges in his questions and his forced compliance with her requests.
• Lin Xiao and Xiao Wu bond through friendly conversation, while Tang San’s attempt to interrupt them only highlights his insecurity.

Significant themes

• Rivalry and jealousy: Lin Xiao’s arrival disrupts Tang San and Xiao Wu’s established dynamic.
• Destiny versus influence: The affinity system suggests a destined pairing, but Lin Xiao’s presence may alter those relationships.
• Power and opportunity: Lin Xiao’s reward transforms him from an injured outsider into a powerful prospective Shrek student.
• Innocence and manipulation: Xiao Wu’s straightforward kindness contrasts with the more calculating motives attributed to both men.

Key plot points and events

• After showering, Lin Xiao draws Xiao Wu’s admiration for his looks, making Tang San feel unexpectedly insecure.
• Xiao Wu invites Lin Xiao to travel with them to Shrek Academy. Tang San objects, doubts Lin Xiao will pass admission, and lowers Xiao Wu’s favorability toward him by two points.
• Lin Xiao recognizes that Tang San’s dismissive behavior may help him win Xiao Wu over. He treats her considerately when she falls asleep, giving her the sofa while he sleeps on the floor.
• The next morning, Xiao Wu’s favorability toward Lin Xiao rises by eight points. She thanks him and shares her breakfast with him, frustrating Tang San, who had brought food only for her.
• On the way to Shrek, Xiao Wu focuses her attention on Lin Xiao, leaving Tang San feeling ignored.
• At the academy gates, Xiao Wu is shocked by the shabby appearance. Lin Xiao explains that Shrek’s facilities are poor but its teachers are powerful Soul Saints and its admissions standards favor exceptional talents. Tang San wonders how Lin Xiao knows so much.

Character developments

• Lin Xiao becomes more calculating: he treats Xiao Wu kindly both out of genuine courtesy and to raise her favorability, while investigating his new Soul Power and the system’s detailed profile of her.
• Xiao Wu grows warmer toward Lin Xiao, readily accepting his invitation as a future classmate, appreciating his consideration, and sharing food with him.
• Tang San grows jealous and resentful. His insecurity over Lin Xiao’s appearance develops into suspicion and hostility, though he keeps his anger mostly hidden around Xiao Wu.

Significant themes

• Appearance and insecurity: Lin Xiao’s looks prompt Tang San to question his belief that ability is all that matters.
• Kindness and strategy: Lin Xiao’s thoughtful actions earn Xiao Wu’s trust, but are also deliberately aimed at increasing her favorability.
• Jealousy and shifting loyalties: Tang San’s possessiveness and criticism push Xiao Wu away, while her attention shifts toward Lin Xiao.
• Reputation versus appearance: Shrek looks unimpressive, yet its demanding admissions and accomplished teachers suggest its true worth lies beyond its facilities.

Character interactions

• Xiao Wu praises Lin Xiao’s appearance and invites him to join her and Tang San on the journey; Tang San objects and belittles his chances.
• Lin Xiao takes care of Xiao Wu overnight, and she responds with gratitude the next morning.
• Xiao Wu shares Tang San’s breakfast with Lin Xiao and spends the journey talking with him, intensifying Tang San’s resentment.
• Lin Xiao explains Shrek’s reputation to Xiao Wu, while Tang San silently questions both his knowledge and motives.

Plot points and events

• Shrek Academy’s strict entrance requirements—applicants must be twelve or younger and have at least Soul Power Level 21—turn away most candidates. Teacher Li Yusong also scares off people demanding refunds by revealing his Soul Emperor strength.
• Tang San takes the test and records a Bone Age of twelve and Soul Power Level 29. Xiao Wu matches his results, delighting Li Yusong, who sees two exceptional recruits.
• Lin Xiao admits his Soul Power is only Level 20, apparently below the threshold. He then shows Li Yusong an Awakening Certificate stating that his Martial Soul is the Four Swords of Zhu Xian and that he awakened only three days earlier with Innate Soul Power of Level 20.
• Shocked by Lin Xiao’s extraordinary potential, Li Yusong tells him to wait while he checks his Soul Power and goes into the academy.
• Tang San urges Lin Xiao to leave for another school, but Xiao Wu points out that Li Yusong asked him to wait and suggests the academy may make an exception.

Character developments and interactions

• Lin Xiao reveals that his apparent lack of ability is actually the result of awakening late. He recognizes Tang San’s attempt to send him away and remains determined to stay.
• Tang San grows increasingly jealous and threatened by Lin Xiao, especially after realizing Lin Xiao’s innate talent may exceed his own. He disguises his desire to separate Lin Xiao from Xiao Wu as concern for Lin Xiao’s future.
• Xiao Wu remains warm toward Lin Xiao, pays his registration fee, and supports waiting for Li Yusong’s decision. Her closeness to Lin Xiao intensifies Tang San’s insecurity.
• Li Yusong shifts from disappointment at Lin Xiao’s Level 20 to astonishment at his certificate, recognizing him as a rare “super monster.”
• Two unidentified people in the crowd also take an interest in Lin Xiao, setting up further developments.

Significant themes

• Talent and potential: Lin Xiao’s late awakening reveals that outward appearances and current level can conceal extraordinary ability.
• Jealousy and possessiveness: Tang San’s concern for Xiao Wu increasingly colors his judgment and his treatment of Lin Xiao.
• Merit versus rules: Lin Xiao falls one level short of the academy’s stated requirement, raising the possibility that exceptional talent may warrant an exception.

Plot points and events

• Lin Xiao bonds with Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing and draws a skill from each. Ning Rongrong grants Full Attribute Amplification, which boosts all attributes by 100% initially and grows stronger with every ten levels. Zhu Zhuqing grants Sword Immortal Clone, allowing Lin Xiao to summon three clones at half his strength; both the number and power of the clones increase as he levels up.
• Lin Xiao now has three self-created Soul Skills—Invincible Golden Body, Full Attribute Amplification, and Sword Immortal Clone—and none uses a Soul Ring slot. He recognizes their potential to make him exceptionally powerful.
• Zhao Wuji arrives at Shrek Academy, impressed by Lin Xiao’s level-twenty Innate Soul Power, and offers to take him straight to the final test. He also notices Tang San and Xiao Wu’s level-twenty-nine Soul Power, though he considers Lin Xiao’s talent even more remarkable.
• Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing ask to skip ahead to the final test as well. Li Yusong recognizes Ning Rongrong’s Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda Martial Soul and approves her. Zhu Zhuqing also passes the Soul Power requirement.
• Ning Rongrong approaches Lin Xiao, introduces herself, and questions him about his life in the mountains and unusual Martial Soul. She proposes that they hunt for Soul Rings together. Lin Xiao accepts, surprised by her friendliness. Zhao Wuji then leads the applicants toward the final test.

Character developments and interactions

• Lin Xiao grows more confident in the extraordinary range of his skills, while remaining puzzled by Ning Rongrong’s sudden warmth.
• Ning Rongrong shows curiosity and initiative, approaching Lin Xiao and offering to help him find Soul Rings. Her favorability toward him rises from 10 to 15 after their brief exchange.
• Zhu Zhuqing meets the conditions to proceed, though she has little direct interaction with Lin Xiao in this excerpt.
• Zhao Wuji is eager to recruit Lin Xiao and takes charge of the three standout applicants, while Li Yusong handles their initial checks.

Significant themes

• Exceptional talent and competition: Lin Xiao’s level-twenty Innate Soul Power makes even other gifted applicants seem less extraordinary by comparison.
• Power and opportunity: His enhanced, slot-free skills offer a major advantage and suggest tremendous future growth.
• Unexpected connection: Ning Rongrong’s uncharacteristic friendliness hints that Lin Xiao’s presence is already affecting the people around him.

Key plot points and events

• The group reaches the final Shrek test: they must endure against Zhao Wuji for the time it takes an incense stick to burn.
• Lin Xiao recalls that the original version of this fight let Tang San showcase his Hidden Weapons, but doubts that a low-level Soul Master could plausibly pierce a Soul Saint’s defenses.
• A system quest appears: outshine Tang San and become the team’s core, with rewards of a Heaven-Gifted First Soul Ring and the Immortal Slaughtering Sword Formation Domain.
• Lin Xiao resolves to take the lead. He twice speaks before Tang San can: first to propose that everyone share their abilities, then to present a battle plan.
• The team introduces their levels, roles, and Martial Souls. Lin Xiao explains that his Four Swords of Zhu Xian give him strong attack power and that he has developed three Self-Created Soul Skills, despite having no Soul Ring.
• His plan sends Ning Rongrong to support from the rear, Zhu Zhuqing to harass from the flank, Tang San to restrain Zhao Wuji with Blue Silver Grass, and Lin Xiao and Xiao Wu to attack from the front.
• Xiao Wu, Ning Rongrong, and Zhu Zhuqing approve of the plan and accept Lin Xiao as the team’s strategist. Zhao Wuji then urges them to begin, confident that their planning cannot overcome the vast gap in strength.

Character developments and interactions

• Lin Xiao shifts from observing the test to deliberately taking command, motivated both by the quest and by his wish to prevent Tang San from dominating the fight. He presents himself as capable and team-minded.
• Tang San grows increasingly frustrated as Lin Xiao repeatedly anticipates what he intended to say. He suspects Lin Xiao may have ulterior motives and feels threatened by losing influence—especially with Xiao Wu.
• Xiao Wu, Ning Rongrong, and Zhu Zhuqing respond positively to Lin Xiao’s leadership, recognizing his tactical thinking.
• Zhao Wuji is amused by the group’s preparation and remains confident that his superior power will decide the test.

Significant themes

• Competition for recognition and leadership: Lin Xiao’s goal is not merely to pass but to become the team’s center, directly challenging Tang San’s expected prominence.
• Strategy versus raw power: The students try to coordinate their distinct strengths, while Zhao Wuji doubts teamwork can bridge the enormous power gap.
• Questioning the original narrative’s plausibility: Lin Xiao challenges the idea that Tang San’s Hidden Weapons alone could overcome the difference between their levels.

Key plot points and events

• Lin Xiao leads the team’s attempt to pass Zhao Wuji’s test, keeping Tang San in a subordinate role while directing Ning Rongrong, Xiao Wu, and Zhu Zhuqing.
• Ning Rongrong boosts the team with Strength and Speed. The group attacks in coordination, but Zhao Wuji’s ground shockwave and Gravity Enhancement hinder them.
• Lin Xiao cuts through the shockwave with a Soul-Power sword strike, impressing Zhao Wuji despite having awakened his Martial Soul only days earlier.
• Lin Xiao reveals a powerful self-created technique, Full Attribute Amplification, doubling the team’s attributes. Tang San is shocked by its strength.
• Lin Xiao urges the team to exploit Zhao Wuji’s vulnerable points and uses Tang San’s Blue Silver Grass to unbalance him. Zhao Wuji, realizing Lin Xiao is directing the threat, charges him.
• Lin Xiao meets Zhao Wuji’s punch with the Immortal Execution Sword. The impact produces sword energy that cuts Zhao Wuji’s knuckles, further astonishing him.
• Lin Xiao immediately orders Zhu Zhuqing to attack Zhao Wuji’s eyes and Tang San to use Blue Silver Grass in an especially humiliating way. The test is still underway at the chapter’s end.

Character developments

• Lin Xiao establishes himself as a bold, tactical commander, combining unconventional teamwork with remarkable swordsmanship and a self-created amplification skill.
• Zhao Wuji begins amused and confident but grows irritated and wary as Lin Xiao’s tactics threaten to embarrass him.
• Tang San resents taking Lin Xiao’s orders, yet obeys to protect his chance of entering the academy. He privately hopes Lin Xiao will be taken out so he can assume command.
• Zhu Zhuqing follows Lin Xiao’s instructions and attacks decisively, showing speed and discipline.
• Ning Rongrong provides crucial support by strengthening and speeding up the team.

Significant themes

• Ingenuity over raw power: Lin Xiao’s strategy lets the younger team challenge a much stronger opponent.
• Unorthodox tactics and fair play: Lin Xiao deliberately targets vulnerabilities, provoking Zhao Wuji’s anger.
• Ambition and rivalry: Tang San’s cooperation is driven partly by personal goals, while Lin Xiao works to keep him from dominating the team.
• Exceptional talent: Lin Xiao’s rapid mastery and creative skills challenge expectations about what a newly awakened Soul Master can do.

Character interactions

• Lin Xiao gives rapid, specific orders, and the others generally follow them—even Tang San, despite his resentment.
• Zhao Wuji praises the team’s coordination at first, then singles out Lin Xiao as the main threat and tries to eliminate him.
• Lin Xiao’s tactics repeatedly provoke Zhao Wuji, while his sword strike earns the older Soul Master’s genuine astonishment.

Plot and key events

• Lin Xiao, Tang San, and Zhu Zhuqing attack Zhao Wuji with carefully aimed strikes. Lin Xiao uses multiple swords and Tang San sends Blue Silver Grass toward Zhao Wuji’s vulnerable areas, forcing Zhao Wuji to unleash Immovable Bright King Body. Its powerful shockwave throws the young fighters back and crushes the vine.
• Lin Xiao argues that ruthless tactics are sensible against a vastly stronger opponent—and would be useful against a real enemy. Zhao Wuji accepts the logic, though he objects to being treated like one.
• Lin Xiao’s reasoning also buys time: most of the incense test has elapsed. When Zhao Wuji realizes he has been stalled, he charges Lin Xiao. Lin Xiao directs Zhu Zhuqing to protect Ning Rongrong, Xiao Wu to harass Zhao Wuji, and Tang San to restrain him.
• Tang San deliberately leaves an opening in his Blue Silver Grass ring, allowing Zhao Wuji to charge at Lin Xiao. Lin Xiao anticipates the danger and uses his two remotely controlled swords in a trap. Zhao Wuji knocks one aside, but the other ends up at his throat.

Character developments and interactions

• Lin Xiao shows tactical creativity, composure, and social savvy: he turns a risky test into a battle of timing and coordination, while acknowledging Zhao Wuji’s strength to defuse his anger.
• Zhao Wuji is surprised and irritated by Lin Xiao’s dirty tactics, but respects his reasoning and cleverness. He remains confident in his superior strength.
• Tang San grows resentful that Lin Xiao is dominating the test. He secretly undermines him, apparently hoping Zhao Wuji will injure or eliminate him.
• Zhu Zhuqing cooperates closely with Lin Xiao, thanking him after he helps her recover from the shockwave. She is assigned to protect Ning Rongrong.
• Xiao Wu is tasked with harassing Zhao Wuji while Tang San’s vines hold him back.

Significant themes

• Cunning versus raw power: The weaker fighters survive by exploiting timing, teamwork, and surprise rather than matching Zhao Wuji’s strength.
• Pragmatism and moral ambiguity: Lin Xiao defends using any available tactic against a stronger foe, even when that foe is an examiner.
• Rivalry and jealousy: Tang San’s private resentment turns a group test into an opportunity to sabotage Lin Xiao.
• Respect earned through competence: Zhao Wuji’s annoyance gives way to admiration for Lin Xiao’s judgment and resourcefulness.

Key plot points and events

• Lin Xiao reveals how he defeated Zhao Wuji: after Zhao focused on the Immortal Slaying Sword overhead, Lin Xiao used the Immortal Execution Sword to circle behind him and threaten him at close range.
• Zhao Wuji concedes the trial. Lin Xiao and the others are accepted into Shrek Academy.
• Lin Xiao apologizes for the fight, and Zhao Wuji—though frustrated—recognizes his tactical skill and agrees to take the students to their dormitories.
• The group praises Lin Xiao for protecting them and coordinating their escape. The system reports that Xiao Wu’s, Zhu Zhuqing’s, and Ning Rongrong’s affection toward him has increased, especially Ning Rongrong’s.
• When asked about his apparent support ability, Lin Xiao says it is a self-created Soul Skill that boosts all attributes by 100 percent and can be used on himself or someone else.
• Zhao Wuji is astonished and offers to help Lin Xiao obtain a Soul Ring. Lin Xiao replies that they may not need to hunt for one, setting up an unanswered revelation.

Character developments and interactions

• Lin Xiao proves himself not only powerful but also a careful strategist, protecting his companions while forcing a much stronger opponent to stop. He remains respectful toward Zhao Wuji and openly explains his unusual ability.
• Zhao Wuji accepts defeat and recognizes Lin Xiao’s talent and practical approach to combat, despite disliking the tactics used against him. He offers to mentor him by helping him find a Soul Ring.
• Tang San is unsettled by Lin Xiao’s success. He had hoped Zhao Wuji would attack Lin Xiao, but Lin Xiao anticipated the danger and turned the battle around. Learning that Lin Xiao has created a Soul Skill intensifies Tang San’s apprehension.
• Xiao Wu, Zhu Zhuqing, and Ning Rongrong express gratitude and admiration. Their increased affection reflects Lin Xiao’s protection and leadership; Ning Rongrong’s gratitude is especially strong.

Significant themes

• Strategy over brute strength: Lin Xiao wins by anticipating Zhao Wuji’s attention and exploiting an opening rather than overpowering him.
• Survival and pragmatism: Zhao Wuji accepts Lin Xiao’s view that combatants should use whatever tactics improve their chances of survival.
• Talent and rivalry: Lin Xiao’s rapid growth inspires admiration from his companions but deepens Tang San’s fear and competitive tension.
• Leadership and trust: Lin Xiao’s protection of the group earns him their confidence and strengthens their bonds.

Chapter Summary

Plot points and events

• Zhao Wuji urges Lin Xiao to hunt a Soul Beast for his first Soul Ring. Lin Xiao insists that a ring is about to appear naturally, leaving Zhao, Tang San, and the others confused.
• Lin Xiao secretly claims a system reward: a Heaven-Gifted First Soul Ring and the Immortal Slaughtering Sword Formation Domain.
• A golden beam descends and repels Zhao Wuji when he tries to reach Lin Xiao. A purple, thousand-year Soul Ring appears around Lin Xiao, who absorbs it in about a minute.
• Lin Xiao explains that he can receive Heaven-Bestowed Soul Rings without hunting Soul Beasts, and claims they let him absorb rings without worrying about his body’s limits.
• Zhao Wuji warns the group to keep Lin Xiao’s unusual ability secret, since it could attract dangerous attention. Everyone agrees.
• Lin Xiao privately suspects Tang San may eventually betray the secrecy, so he resolves to watch him.

Character developments and interactions

• Lin Xiao reveals a remarkable ability while remaining deliberately vague about its true source. He also stays composed in the face of Tang San’s condescension.
• Zhao Wuji moves from concern about Lin Xiao’s inexperience to astonishment, then takes a protective, practical stance by ordering everyone to conceal what happened.
• Tang San tells Lin Xiao that Soul Masters must hunt Soul Beasts, speaking in a patronizing way. Zhao Wuji notices that Tang San had deliberately left a gap in his earlier vine blockade and worries about his character.
• Xiao Wu shows concern for Lin Xiao and stops when Zhao Wuji orders everyone back.
• Ning Rongrong takes Lin Xiao’s arm and accepts his joking claim that the heavens favor him because he is a good person.
• A system notification reveals that Xiao Wu’s favorability toward Tang San has fallen by three points, adding to an existing decline and hinting at a change in their bond.

Significant themes

• Exceptionalism and destiny: Lin Xiao’s supernatural reward sets him apart from ordinary Soul Masters.
• Power and secrecy: His ability is both an immense advantage and a potential source of danger, prompting Zhao Wuji to insist on confidentiality.
• Trust and character: Zhao Wuji’s assessment of Tang San contrasts with Lin Xiao’s calm response to him, while Xiao Wu’s declining favorability suggests their relationship is shifting.

Key plot points

• Ning Rongrong notices Lin Xiao’s First Soul Ring and learns it is three thousand years old, far beyond the usual limit for a first ring. She is unusually familiar and physically forward with him, prompting him to wonder whether her personality differs from—or hides—the one he expects.
• Xiao Wu asks about Lin Xiao’s Soul Power. He has reached Level 25 after absorbing the ring, an astonishing rise that also reassures her: she believes his heaven-bestowed ring means he does not need to kill Soul Beasts to obtain it.
• Tang San is unsettled by Lin Xiao’s rapid progress, recognizing that Lin Xiao may soon surpass him. Lin Xiao says his Second Soul Ring will probably also be heaven-bestowed and at least as powerful as his first. Zhao Wuji can only marvel at how thoroughly Lin Xiao defies Soul Master conventions.
• After the students settle into their dormitories, Lin Xiao asks Zhao Wuji how he can earn money. Zhao explains Soul Masters receive a monthly Spirit Hall allowance and can earn more through Spirit Hall commissions, though these jobs carry risks.

Character developments and interactions

• Lin Xiao remains practical and ambitious: despite his exceptional advancement, he thinks ahead about financial security and life after graduation.
• Ning Rongrong acts more openly affectionate than Lin Xiao expects, while reacting with genuine shock to his Soul Ring.
• Xiao Wu grows more comfortable with Lin Xiao because she thinks his Soul Rings spare Soul Beasts from being killed.
• Tang San feels threatened by Lin Xiao’s extraordinary growth.
• Zhao Wuji is impressed by Lin Xiao but advises him not to endanger himself for money.

Significant themes

• Lin Xiao’s heaven-bestowed Soul Rings and accelerated growth challenge the accepted rules of the Soul Master world.
• Xiao Wu’s concern highlights the tension between Soul Masters’ need for Soul Rings and the fate of Soul Beasts.
• The chapter also contrasts remarkable power with ordinary practical concerns: Lin Xiao may be a prodigy, but he still needs to plan for his future and earn a living.

Key plot points and events

• Zhao Wuji advises Lin Xiao to reconsider taking Spirit Hall bounty missions, but Lin Xiao still needs money for future expenses and only promises to think about it.
• Lin Xiao plans to register with Spirit Hall in Suotuo City, trusting that the system-provided Awakening Certificate will protect his identity.
• Ning Rongrong catches up with Lin Xiao and invites him to spend time with her. When she learns he needs money, she offers him a pouch of Gold Soul Coins; he refuses, insisting he will earn his own.
• The two walk around the academy and talk before heading to the dining hall. Ning Rongrong eagerly asks Lin Xiao about his future and suggests exploring Suotuo City together.
• Oscar approaches them with a flirtatious introduction. Ning Rongrong nearly falls, and Lin Xiao catches her around the waist. The moment increases her affection for him, while she angrily rebukes Oscar.

Character developments

• Lin Xiao remains determined to earn his own money and is receptive to Zhao Wuji’s advice without abandoning his plans. He also uses the Goddess Codex to understand Ning Rongrong’s feelings and behavior.
• Ning Rongrong shows a strong desire for companionship. Though wealthy and accustomed to giving money freely, she accepts Lin Xiao’s refusal and is visibly delighted by his company. Her attraction to his appearance and small acts of care becomes clearer.
• Oscar enters as a forward, flirtatious presence, immediately drawing Ning Rongrong’s irritation.

Significant themes

• Independence and self-reliance: Lin Xiao refuses a handout despite needing money.
• Loneliness and friendship: Ning Rongrong’s eagerness to spend time with Lin Xiao reflects her longing for a genuine friend.
• Appearance and attraction: Lin Xiao realizes that Ning Rongrong’s initial interest is strongly influenced by his looks.
• Romance and affection: The Goddess Codex tracks Ning Rongrong’s growing feelings, which rise through conversation and Lin Xiao’s protective gesture.

Character interactions

• Zhao Wuji offers Lin Xiao practical guidance, which Lin Xiao considers but does not immediately follow.
• Ning Rongrong tries to help Lin Xiao financially and invites him to walk with her; his refusal does not dampen her enthusiasm.
• Lin Xiao listens as Ning Rongrong chats excitedly and uses the Codex to interpret her interest.
• Oscar interrupts their time together, and Lin Xiao’s quick catch both protects Ning Rongrong and further strengthens her affection for him.

Plot points and events

• Ning Rongrong angrily dismisses Oscar, calling him an “uncle” because of his beard, then warmly invites Lin Xiao to eat with her. Oscar is crushed but vows to shave and win her over.
• Lin Xiao and Rongrong join the Shrek students at the cafeteria. Xiao Wu greets them, and Dai Mubai is present after returning to the academy.
• Tang San is pleased at first to see Lin Xiao arrive with Rongrong, hoping the two are involved and that Lin Xiao will leave Xiao Wu alone. But Xiao Wu’s friendly greeting to Lin Xiao reignites his jealousy.
• Tang San privately decides Lin Xiao must be driven out, resenting his superior talent and fearing he will take Xiao Wu from him. He also reveals to himself that he knows Xiao Wu is a transformed Hundred-Thousand-Year Soul Beast and covets her potential Soul Ring and Soul Bone.
• Lin Xiao notices a flash of killing intent in Tang San’s eyes and resolves to be cautious.
• While Rongrong goes to order food, Xiao Wu teases Lin Xiao about his closeness with her. Lin Xiao insists they are only friends.
• Lin Xiao checks the Goddess Codex: Rongrong’s favorability toward Oscar is -20, while Zhu Zhuqing’s toward Dai Mubai is -100. Surprised that favorability can be negative, he asks the system what it means.

Character developments and interactions

• Oscar is painfully sensitive to Rongrong’s rejection and compares himself unfavorably with Lin Xiao, but his disappointment turns into determination to change his appearance and pursue her.
• Ning Rongrong is openly hostile to Oscar but affectionate and comfortable with Lin Xiao, highlighting her clear preference between the two.
• Tang San grows increasingly possessive and threatening. His concern for Xiao Wu is entangled with jealousy, ambition, and a desire to exploit her hidden identity.
• Lin Xiao remains composed amid the romantic teasing but recognizes Tang San as dangerous and becomes more wary of him.
• Xiao Wu is playful with Lin Xiao, teasing him about Rongrong, while her attention toward him intensifies Tang San’s jealousy.

Significant themes

• Unequal treatment and attraction: Oscar’s “difference between people” is illustrated by Rongrong’s contrasting reactions to him and Lin Xiao.
• Possessiveness and exploitation: Tang San frames Xiao Wu as belonging to him and views her body and powers as resources to obtain.
• Jealousy and rivalry: Both Oscar and Tang San react to Lin Xiao as a romantic rival, though Tang San’s response is far more dangerous.
• Hidden identity and power: Xiao Wu’s nature as a transformed Soul Beast makes her both emotionally vulnerable and a target for Tang San’s ambitions.

Chapter summary

Lin Xiao examines the Goddess Codex’s negative favorability scale: negative scores represent hostility, from disgust at −20 to mortal enmity at −100. Ning Rongrong’s score toward Oscar is −20 after their poor first meeting. Zhu Zhuqing’s score toward Dai Mubai is −100.
The Codex explains why Zhu Zhuqing despises Dai Mubai. Though they were engaged, he fled the Star Luo Empire to escape danger and left her exposed to repeated assassination attempts. She later came to Heaven Dou seeking a chance to change their shared fate. But after seeing Dai Mubai leave the Rose Hotel with twin women, she learned that he had spent years neglecting his training and living as a notorious womanizer. Lin Xiao realizes that his arrival may have altered events enough to put Zhu Zhuqing near the hotel. He suspects Dai Mubai has recognized her and wants to win her back, unaware of her hatred. Lin Xiao sees her estrangement from Dai Mubai as an opportunity to approach her himself.
Ning Rongrong returns from the cafeteria dissatisfied with the food and offers to hire a chef and improve the dining hall at her family’s expense. The students welcome the offer, and Oscar briefly hopes her wealth might make her a romantic prospect. But Ning reveals that her real aim is to provide Lin Xiao with special meals. The Codex confirms she is trying to win him over by appealing to his appetite—a strategy Lin Xiao finds both startling and characteristic of her wealth.
The system then gives Lin Xiao a mission: defeat Dai Mubai within three days to earn a second Soul Ring of at least five thousand years. Its quality depends on how quickly Lin Xiao wins, with a faster victory earning a better reward.

Character developments and interactions

• Lin Xiao studies the favorability system, recognizes a chance to get closer to Zhu Zhuqing, and receives a high-stakes mission against Dai Mubai.
• Zhu Zhuqing is revealed as deeply betrayed and hostile toward her fiancé; her firsthand discovery of his behavior has hardened her feelings.
• Dai Mubai is portrayed as cowardly, irresponsible, and promiscuous, while apparently hoping to reconcile with Zhu Zhuqing.
• Ning Rongrong uses her wealth to improve the academy’s meals, especially for Lin Xiao, showing her growing interest in him.
• Oscar mistakes Ning Rongrong’s generosity for a possible romantic opening, only to discover her attention is directed elsewhere.
• Xiao Wu and Zhu Zhuqing welcome Ning Rongrong’s offer; the cafeteria’s students benefit from her generosity.

Significant themes

The chapter contrasts loyalty and betrayal, especially through Zhu Zhuqing’s abandonment by Dai Mubai; explores favorability as both emotional measure and strategic opportunity; and emphasizes how wealth can be used to express affection and solve practical problems. Fate and altered events also matter, as Lin Xiao’s presence may have changed Zhu Zhuqing’s path.

Plot points and events

• The system’s reward for Lin Xiao’s upcoming battle grows with how long the fight lasts, guaranteeing at least a five-thousand-year reward and possibly more. Lin Xiao reflects that the system ignores the usual limits of the Soul Master world.
• Ning Rongrong offers to support Lin Xiao financially, but he refuses, preferring to earn money through Spirit Hall bounty missions. Her affection rises anyway, and she becomes more determined to win him over.
• After dinner, Lin Xiao returns to his dorm, followed by Ning Rongrong and Xiao Wu. Tang San watches jealously as Xiao Wu follows Lin Xiao.
• Dai Mubai tries to speak with Zhu Zhuqing about their betrothal, but she avoids him. Angry and frustrated, he damages the table before leaving. Oscar explains that Dai Mubai has been rejected, while Ma Hongjun predicts he will eventually win Zhu Zhuqing over.
• Tang San worries that Dai Mubai might pursue Xiao Wu as well as Lin Xiao, and resolves to warn her to keep her distance.
• In the dormitory, Ning Rongrong questions Xiao Wu about Lin Xiao, then boldly declares she intends to marry him into the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect. Lin Xiao overhears through the poorly insulated wall and dismisses her enthusiasm as likely temporary. He remains focused on growing stronger and completing his mission involving Dai Mubai.

Character developments and interactions

• Lin Xiao maintains his independence despite Ning Rongrong’s wealth and attention. He is courteous toward her but prioritizes strength, his next Soul Ring, and his mission.
• Ning Rongrong becomes openly infatuated with Lin Xiao and turns his refusal into a challenge, convinced she can win him over.
• Xiao Wu admits she feels close to Lin Xiao after only a short time, while still regarding Tang San as an older-brother figure. She is startled by Ning Rongrong’s sudden marriage plans.
• Tang San grows increasingly jealous and anxious about losing Xiao Wu, especially as Lin Xiao—and potentially Dai Mubai—draw her attention.
• Zhu Zhuqing keeps her distance from Dai Mubai, whose failed attempt to talk to her intensifies his frustration.

Significant themes

• Attraction, jealousy, and rivalry: Lin Xiao’s growing closeness with others unsettles Tang San and Dai Mubai.
• Independence and ambition: Lin Xiao refuses financial help and stays focused on becoming stronger.
• Power beyond convention: The system’s rewards challenge the Soul Master world’s established rules and limits.
• Infatuation versus genuine attachment: Ning Rongrong’s intense declarations contrast with Lin Xiao’s skepticism about how long her interest will last.

Plot points and events

• After spending most of the night studying his Zhu Xian swords and the Immortal Slaughtering Sword Formation Domain, Lin Xiao is woken at seven by Ning Rongrong.
• Rongrong has brought him an elaborate breakfast from Suotuo City. She admits she went before dawn, though a hidden protector accompanied her.
• Lin Xiao tells her he was worried about her safety. The system reports that his concern raises her affection to 33.
• Rongrong says her family is sending a chef to the academy, so she will not need to buy breakfast again, but asks whether she can still wake Lin Xiao each morning.
• Lin Xiao invites her to eat with him. Afterward, Rongrong clears the dishes, and the two head to the training field ahead of the others. They wait beneath a tree.

Character developments and interactions

• Lin Xiao is exhausted from studying his powers, but is touched by Rongrong’s effort and responds with genuine concern. He also reflects that her attention seems to come easily and wonders how quickly her affection will grow.
• Rongrong is eager to win Lin Xiao’s affection and has deliberately chosen breakfast as a way to offer him warmth and care. Around him, she is unusually humble and considerate compared with her usual spoiled reputation.
• Their breakfast becomes a small domestic moment: Rongrong serves Lin Xiao, while he makes sure she eats too. Their growing closeness is reinforced by affectionate teasing and the system’s affection update.

Significant themes

• Affection and courtship: Rongrong’s planned gestures and Lin Xiao’s concern steadily deepen their bond.
• Care and vulnerability: Her willingness to set aside pride, and his attention to her safety, create mutual warmth.
• Power and self-improvement: Lin Xiao continues studying the capabilities of his swords and domain, though he doubts ordinary training will be necessary for his advancement.

Plot and events

• Ning Rongrong and Lin Xiao arrive at the Playground early. Xiao Wu suspects Rongrong came early to spend time with Lin Xiao.
• Zhu Zhuqing pointedly ignores Dai Mubai and greets Lin Xiao instead, making Dai Mubai jealous.
• Oscar and Ma Hongjun’s remarks reveal Dai Mubai’s demeaning attitude toward women. Zhu Zhuqing and Rongrong condemn him, and Zhuqing moves away.
• Dai Mubai threatens Rongrong. Lin Xiao steps in to protect her, and the argument escalates into a duel.
• Dai Mubai attacks first with his White Tiger martial soul and White Tiger Fierce Light Wave. Lin Xiao answers with his Immortal Execution Mountain-Cleaving skill. The chapter ends as their attacks are about to meet.

Character developments and interactions

• Lin Xiao shows confidence in his abilities and willingness to defend Rongrong, despite being less experienced than Dai Mubai. He hopes defeating Dai Mubai will also advance his system task.
• Ning Rongrong appears increasingly close to Lin Xiao and is surprised—and moved—when he stands up for her.
• Zhu Zhuqing continues to reject Dai Mubai and shows support for Lin Xiao, further intensifying Dai Mubai’s jealousy.
• Dai Mubai reveals his arrogance, misogyny, and possessiveness, though he restrains his anger toward Zhuqing because he needs her help to challenge his brother.
• Xiao Wu is competitive about training; Tang San anticipates a fight, while Oscar and Ma Hongjun worry about conflict among classmates.

Significant themes

• The chapter contrasts respect and protection with entitlement and misogyny.
• It explores jealousy, loyalty, and rivalry, as Dai Mubai reacts to Zhuqing’s attention toward Lin Xiao.
• Lin Xiao’s confidence sets up a test of ability versus reputation and power, as he faces a stronger opponent.

Key plot points and events

• Dai Mubai attacks Lin Xiao in a rage, intending to kill him. He believes his royal status and strength put him beyond consequences.
• Lin Xiao counters Dai Mubai’s White Tiger Fierce Light Wave with his First Soul Skill, Immortal Execution Mountain-Cleaving. The sword strike destroys Dai Mubai’s attack and defensive barrier, leaving him badly wounded and unconscious in a single move.
• Lin Xiao declines to strike again and openly dismisses Dai Mubai’s strength. The other students are stunned that a level-25 fighter defeated a Soul Elder who had a twelve-level advantage.
• The system rewards Lin Xiao for completing the challenge with a Ten Thousand Year Second Soul Ring. He claims it, hoping it will raise his Soul Power to level 30.

Character developments and interactions

• Lin Xiao displays confidence and overwhelming power, establishing himself as the strongest student at the academy. His victory also advances his standing with several girls.
• Dai Mubai suffers a humiliating defeat after letting rage and entitlement drive his attack. He had hoped his status would secure Zhu Zhuqing’s affection, but his loss further damages his position.
• Tang San had hoped Dai Mubai would injure or kill Lin Xiao. The plan fails, leaving Tang San worried that it will become harder to drive Lin Xiao away; he resolves to push his cultivation to keep pace.
• Ma Hongjun and Oscar are shocked by Dai Mubai’s defeat. Oscar, in particular, decides that pursuing Ning Rongrong—and risking Lin Xiao’s anger—is unwise.
• Xiao Wu celebrates Lin Xiao’s victory, while Ning Rongrong admires him more and Zhu Zhuqing gains the most affection for him, partly because he has defeated Dai Mubai.
• The system records increased affection from all three girls: Xiao Wu, Ning Rongrong, and Zhu Zhuqing.

Significant themes

• Power overturns status: Dai Mubai’s royal title and Soul Elder rank prove useless against Lin Xiao’s superior technique and Soul Ring.
• Pride and consequences: Dai Mubai’s entitlement and murderous anger lead to a public defeat.
• Rivalry and ambition: Tang San sees Lin Xiao as a growing obstacle and feels compelled to work harder.
• Strength earns admiration: Lin Xiao’s victory changes how the academy’s students and the girls view him.

Key plot points and events

• A golden beam descends on Lin Xiao at Shrek Academy, granting him a Heaven-Bestowed Second Soul Ring. The ring is black—ten thousand years old—and he absorbs it safely.
• Flender and Zhao Wuji arrive and are amazed by Lin Xiao’s talent. Flender orders Oscar to take the unconscious Dai Mubai for treatment, while deciding not to punish Lin Xiao: the staff witnessed the fight and believe he was not at fault.
• Lin Xiao’s Soul Power rises to level thirty after absorbing the ring. Flender is stunned and asks whether he can now receive a third Heaven-Bestowed Soul Ring.

Character developments and interactions

• Lin Xiao remains modest in public, credits his success to luck, and accepts Flender’s advice to reveal his talent when doing so could bring support and opportunities. He privately judges that he does not need to hide his unusual abilities, though he wants to build his companions’ trust first.
• Flender immediately sees Lin Xiao as a potential future Titled Douluo and a major asset to the academy. He vows to nurture him and warns him not to conceal his abilities so much that he misses valuable opportunities.
• Zhao Wuji backs Flender’s assessment, praising Lin Xiao’s Soul Ring and First Soul Skill.
• Tang San privately resents Lin Xiao’s apparent favor from heaven, believing that he himself should have been specially chosen.
• Xiao Wu is relieved that Flender is only a Soul Saint, since a stronger expert might detect her identity and covet her Hundred Thousand Year Soul Ring and Soul Bone.
• Dai Mubai remains unconscious after the fight; Flender recognizes that he had fought with lethal intent and plans to speak with him later.

Significant themes

• Extraordinary talent and recognition: Lin Xiao’s rapid advancement amazes even experienced Soul Masters and raises Shrek Academy’s hopes for the future.
• Power, opportunity, and self-presentation: Flender argues that talent should sometimes be displayed to earn backing and status, rather than always kept hidden.
• Envy and vulnerability: Lin Xiao’s good fortune fuels Tang San’s resentment, while Xiao Wu’s valuable secret leaves her wary of being discovered.