Ch. 1Martial Soul Awakening, Crown Prince Xu He
Plot points
- At the imperial Martial Soul Awakening ceremony in Mingdu, Xu Tiance watches as Xu He—the future He Caitou—steps onto the formation.
- Xu He awakens two Martial Souls: the sun and a cigar, confirming rumors about his abilities. Testing reveals Innate Full Soul Power.
- Delighted, Emperor Xu Chengye names Xu He Crown Prince and praises him as a rare prodigy.
- Xu Tiance knows his father, Prince Xu Chengjing, is secretly preparing a coup for three years later. Xu He’s sudden rise threatens those plans.
Character developments
- Xu He shows excitement at his appointment but remains composed, kneeling to thank his father.
- Xu Chengye displays open joy and generosity, reinforcing his image as a moderate ruler who favors peace and diplomacy.
- Xu Chengjing briefly reacts with concern, then quickly masks it with warm congratulations.
- Xu Tianran, Xu Chengjing’s eldest son, quietly clenches his fist and shows a flash of hostility, though he hides it before the emperor notices.
- Xu Tiance remains an observant, analytical bystander, comparing events with what he knows of the future.
Character interactions
- Xu Chengye publicly celebrates Xu He’s awakening and elevates him to Crown Prince.
- Xu Chengjing congratulates his imperial brother and nephew while concealing his unease.
- Kong Deming, head of the Offering Hall, attends the ceremony and watches the emperor’s actions with disapproval.
Significant themes
- Power and succession: Xu He’s unexpected talent reshapes the imperial line and complicates Xu Chengjing’s coup plans.
- Public composure versus private ambition: Xu Chengjing and Xu Tianran conceal their reactions beneath formal behavior.
- Peace versus militarism: Xu Chengye’s moderate, peace-seeking policies have angered influential court and Offering Hall figures, setting political tensions beneath the celebration.