Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing and Ilena are the only ones left on the deck after a river excitement.
• Zheng Qing reveals he didn't duel Professor Trude as planned, due to their power disparity.
• Zheng Qing and Ilena discuss their plans for the winter break; Zheng Qing is going to Beta Town's northern district for public service, while Ilena is with exchange students from the Gypsy Witch Coven.
• Old Man Shaw warns them about Abominations appearing in the next stretch of water, causing both Zheng Qing and Ilena to become tense.
• An Abomination is heard at the end of the river channel.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing shows a sense of honor and respect for his teachers, but also a certain level of cowardice in avoiding Professor Trude's duel.
• Ilena displays concern for Zheng Qing's safety and seems to enjoy their conversation.
• Old Man Shaw exhibits a nonchalant attitude towards Abominations, indicating he's likely encountered them before.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics and respect among Wizards, as seen in Zheng Qing's avoidance of Professor Trude's duel.
• The fear and disgust towards Abominations, reflecting the Wizards' pursuit of order and their rejection of chaotic entities.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Ilena engage in a friendly conversation, with Zheng Qing complimenting Ilena's beauty, and Ilena playfully teasing him.
• Old Man Shaw interrupts their conversation to warn them about Abominations, causing both Zheng Qing and Ilena to become serious and concerned.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing and Ilena encounter a colossal, frog-like creature, the Descendant of Sato Guya, on Puji Island.
• The creature's gaze causes Zheng Qing intense pain and hallucinations.
• Old Man Shaw, the boatman, uses a spell to temporarily blind the creature.
• Zheng Qing and Ilena consider helping the old boatman but decide to stay in the cabin while keeping watch.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing demonstrates courage and concern for others, willing to help the old boatman despite the danger.
• Ilena shows worry for Zheng Qing's safety and suggests they stay in the cabin while keeping watch.
• Old Man Shaw reveals his magical abilities and knowledge about the creature.

Significant Themes

• Courage and Caution: Zheng Qing's willingness to help the old boatman shows courage, but he also exercises caution by not rushing into danger.
• Trust and Communication: Zheng Qing and Ilena trust each other and communicate effectively, making decisions together.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Ilena work together, considering each other's safety and opinions.
• Zheng Qing and Old Man Shaw have a silent understanding; Zheng Qing supports the old boatman without being asked.
• Zheng Qing and Ilena's relationship deepens as they face danger together.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing discovers his Talisman Bombs are drawn with his own blood, a dangerous and taxing method but significantly more powerful.
• The ferry encounters a frog-like giant beast, the Descendant of Satogua, which seems unaffected by the old Boatman's Incantations.
• Zheng Qing uses a blood Talisman Bomb, which unexpectedly destroys the Descendant of Satogua, turning it into a puddle of mud.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing shows courage and decisiveness in using the Talisman Bomb against the monster, despite the old Boatman's disapproval of wasting it.
• The old Boatman demonstrates his experience and caution in handling the monster, using control-type Incantations instead of offensive ones.
• The Gypsy Witch reveals her shock and awe at the destruction of the monster.

Significant Themes

• The power and danger of blood Talismans.
• The cunning and unpredictability of creatures in the Silent Forest.
• The importance of caution and decisiveness in facing dangerous situations.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and the old Boatman: Zheng Qing shows initiative in using the Talisman Bomb, while the old Boatman disapproves but acknowledges Zheng Qing's courage. They work together to face the monster.
• Zheng Qing and the Descendant of Satogua: Zheng Qing's Talisman Bomb unexpectedly destroys the monster, leading to his disbelief and denial of involvement.
• Zheng Qing and the Gypsy Witch: The Gypsy Witch's shocked reaction mirrors Zheng Qing's initial disbelief at the monster's destruction.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Five wizards from the Trident Sword appear at the riverbank after the frog monster's explosion.
• Old Man Shaw stops the ferry and isolates the passengers in the cabin.
• Zheng Qing stays outside and is questioned by a Trident Sword investigator.
• The investigator confirms that the Sartogua descendant is dead, causing environmental deterioration.
• Old Man Shaw takes over the investigation and questions Zheng Qing about his identity and the Talisman Bomb.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing: Starts to feel the weight of his 'world' title, but decides to acknowledge it during the investigation.
• Old Man Shaw: Shows his authority and experience in handling the investigation, taking charge from the Trident Sword investigator.

Significant Themes

• The impact of the Sartogua descendant's death on the environment and wizards' mental states.
• The investigation process and the involvement of different organizations (Trident Sword, Jiuyou Academy).

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Old Man Shaw: The old boatman takes an interest in Zheng Qing after learning he's a student of Professor Yao.
• Zheng Qing and the Trident Sword investigator: The investigator shows deference to Old Man Shaw and cooperates with him during the investigation.
• Zheng Qing and the Trident Sword: Zheng Qing's identity as 'the Zheng Qing of the world' is revealed to the investigator.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing, a young and accomplished wizard, is mistaken for someone else by Old Man Shaw.
• Zheng Qing is questioned by a Trident Sword employee about his encounter with a Frog Monster on the river.
• The employee hints at potential retaliation from the Old One, Sato Guya, due to the death of its descendant.
• Zheng Qing expresses concern about when Sato Guya might react.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing: Shows humility and unease when faced with his accomplishments being listed. He becomes worried about potential retaliation from Sato Guya.
• Old Man Shaw: Initially dismissive of Zheng Qing's achievements, he later shows understanding and support, comforting Zheng Qing about Sato Guya's potential reaction.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics between wizards and Old Ones, with the latter being vastly more powerful and conscious.
• The potential consequences of actions taken by wizards, even unintentionally, on the cosmic scale.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Old Man Shaw: They have a brief misunderstanding, but Old Man Shaw eventually shows support and understanding towards Zheng Qing.
• Zheng Qing and the Trident Sword employee: The employee questions Zheng Qing about the Frog Monster encounter, causing Zheng Qing to worry about Sato Guya's potential reaction.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Wizard of the Trident Sword arranges for Beta Town's mounted police to escort Zheng Qing and the ferry.
• The mounted police arrive on brooms, led by a captain with a corn snake on his hat.
• The Wizard of the Trident Sword explains the situation to the captain and asks him to escort Zheng Qing to Beta Town.
• Old Man Shaw uses five Jade Oxen to speed up the ferry's journey, reaching Beta Town in record time.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing: Shows curiosity and interest in the Jade Oxen, asking about their price and where to buy them.
• Old Man Shaw: Reveals his connection to the School Labor Committee, implying he has influence and resources.
• The Wizard of the Trident Sword: Demonstrates professionalism and efficiency in handling the situation and arranging the escort.

Significant Themes

• The use of magical creatures (Jade Oxen) for labor and transportation.
• The contrast between modern alchemical equipment and traditional magical methods.
• The hierarchy and professionalism within the magical community, as seen in the interactions between the Wizard of the Trident Sword and the mounted police captain.

Character Interactions

• The Wizard of the Trident Sword and the mounted police captain: A professional exchange, with the captain showing deference to the wizard's authority.
• Zheng Qing and Old Man Shaw: Zheng Qing shows curiosity, while Old Man Shaw maintains a gruff demeanor but provides information when asked.
• The mounted police and Zheng Qing: They show politeness and professionalism towards Zheng Qing, treating him with respect.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing learns that Green's General Store already sells water buffaloes, dismissing his idea to sell them at D&K.
• Upon arrival in Beta Town, Zheng Qing meets Commissioner Andrew of the Trident Sword, who is still stationed there temporarily.
• Zheng Qing and his friends are greeted by a bustling scene at the dock due to the arrival of many First University students.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing shows humility and honesty in admitting his role in the Abomination incident, prioritizing safety and responsibility over boasting.
• Andrew reveals his desire to advance his career and obtain an Intermediate Registered Wizard certificate, showing ambition and dissatisfaction with his current position.

Significant Themes

• Career Advancement: The chapter explores the hierarchy within the wizarding world, with Registered Wizards having different ranks (Junior, Intermediate, Senior), and career progression depending on academic papers or years of practice.
• Responsibility vs. Recognition: Zheng Qing chooses to be honest about his actions, prioritizing safety and responsibility over immediate recognition.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing interacts with Commissioner Andrew, learning about the ranks of Registered Wizards and Andrew's career aspirations.
• Zheng Qing, Xin Fatty, Xiao Xiao, and Ilena reunite, with Ilena showing concern for Zheng Qing's well-being after the Abomination incident.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing visits the Trident Sword's office for an investigation.
• Andrew, the Trident Sword specialist, reassures Zheng Qing about potential liabilities.
• Andrew introduces Zheng Qing to Ms. Pulitzer, a senior reporter from the Beta Town Post.
• Zheng Qing and Ms. Pulitzer proceed to a nearby coffee shop for an interview.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing: Shows caution and wariness when dealing with Ms. Pulitzer, indicating his growing awareness of potential threats.
• Andrew: Demonstrates a more amiable and less rule-abiding side, hinting at his complex nature.

Significant Themes

• The power of media and its influence, as represented by Ms. Pulitzer and the Beta Town Post.
• The tension between official institutions (like the Trident Sword) and independent figures (like Ms. Pulitzer).

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Andrew: Their interaction shows Andrew's dual nature—amiable yet manipulative.
• Zheng Qing and Ms. Pulitzer: Their initial meeting sets the stage for a potential power dynamic, with Zheng Qing cautious and Ms. Pulitzer assertive.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing meets with Ms. Pulitzer, a reporter, at a coffee shop for an interview.
• Ms. Pulitzer uses a magic barrier for their conversation and a truth-telling device, a small bell under an archway, to ensure honesty.
• Zheng Qing feels uneasy and unhappy about the interview process but decides to continue for professional reasons.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing: Shows discomfort with the interview process but maintains composure. He's cautious about the reporter's intentions and the truth-telling device.
• Ms. Pulitzer: Remains professional and assertive throughout the interview, using magic to ensure honesty and maintain control.

Significant Themes

• Honesty and truth-telling: The small bell under the archway serves as a symbol of truth and honesty, reflecting the theme of transparency in communication.
• Professionalism: Both characters exhibit professional behavior, with Zheng Qing considering his commitments and Ms. Pulitzer following her interview process.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Ms. Pulitzer: Their interaction is tense but civil. Zheng Qing feels uncomfortable, while Ms. Pulitzer maintains a professional demeanor. They both respect the interview process, albeit with differing levels of ease.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing is interviewed by Ms. Pulitzer, a dedicated reporter.
• The interview focuses on Zheng Qing's academic background, talisman skills, and the recent incident on the Silent River.
• Zheng Qing reveals he studied at a private school and didn't know about the wizarding world until his exam.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing shows wariness and caution when dealing with the reporter but maintains composure.
• Ms. Pulitzer demonstrates dedication and thoroughness in her investigation.

Significant Themes

• The power of public opinion and its influence on the judiciary.
• The importance of truthfulness, as Zheng Qing's honesty is reflected in the silent silver bells.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Ms. Pulitzer engage in a tense yet polite exchange, with Zheng Qing trying to control the narrative while Ms. Pulitzer persistently seeks information.
• Zheng Qing's interaction with the sprite server shows his awareness of social norms and etiquette.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing is interviewed by Ms. Pulitzer about the recent Abomination incident and the Academy Cup Freshman Competition.
• Zheng Qing reveals he received the Talisman Gun as a gift but declines to name the giver.
• Zheng Qing denies any involvement of the 'Relevant Department' in the Academy Cup.
• Zheng Qing discusses the use of Blood Talismans and reveals Jiuyou Academy hasn't publicized the 'Wizard Alliance's Opinions on the Production and Use of Blood Talismans'.
• Zheng Qing expresses his feelings about killing the Abomination and discusses the Academy's rigorous examination system.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing shows discomfort and intimidation when facing Ms. Pulitzer's direct questions, revealing his inexperience in handling media.
• Zheng Qing demonstrates a desire for recognition and rewards, which Ms. Pulitzer notes.
• Zheng Qing shows a lack of awareness about the Academy's policies regarding Blood Talismans.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics between media, academia, and the government are explored through Ms. Pulitzer's aggressive questioning and Zheng Qing's discomfort.
• The theme of education and its impact on students' values and skills is highlighted through Zheng Qing's discussion of the Academy's rigorous examination system.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Ms. Pulitzer engage in a tense interview, with Ms. Pulitzer pushing for information and Zheng Qing trying to maintain control over the narrative.
• Zheng Qing's interaction with the waiter Sprites shows his lack of consideration for their feelings, highlighting his self-centeredness.
• Zheng Qing's mention of his classmates and Professor Yao reveals his respect for their abilities and the Academy's teaching methods.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing struggles through an interview with Ms. Pulitzer, feeling like time is dragging.
• Xiao Xiao and Xin Fatty interrupt the interview, rescuing Zheng Qing.
• They rush to find a hotel, as they have a mission to complete before 6 PM.
• Xin Fatty reveals that external gates to First University close at 5 PM during winter break.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing: Shows discomfort and unease during the interview, feels relieved when rescued.
• Xiao Xiao: Displays impatience and urgency regarding their mission, reveals knowledge about the university's gate policies.
• Xin Fatty: Demonstrates enthusiasm and persistence in pursuing an interview with Ms. Pulitzer, shows concern for Zheng Qing's well-being.

Significant Themes

• Time perception: Zheng Qing's discomfort in the interview contrasts with his relief at being rescued, highlighting the subjective nature of time.
• Escapism: Zheng Qing's desire to escape the interview mirrors his later urgency to complete their mission and leave Beta Town.
• The power of words: Ms. Pulitzer's interview questions and Xin Fatty's persistence in seeking an interview illustrate the influence of words and communication.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Ms. Pulitzer: Zheng Qing feels trapped and uncomfortable during the interview, while Ms. Pulitzer is persistent and inquisitive.
• Xiao Xiao and Zheng Qing: Xiao Xiao rescues Zheng Qing from the interview, showing urgency and impatience.
• Xin Fatty and Ms. Pulitzer: Xin Fatty enthusiastically pursues an interview with Ms. Pulitzer, but she is more interested in Xiao Xiao.
• Zheng Qing, Xiao Xiao, and Xin Fatty: The three work together to complete their mission, with Xiao Xiao leading the way and Xin Fatty providing useful information.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing, Xin Fatty, and Xiao Xiao arrive in Beta Town's North District, known for its high concentration of Tricksters and poverty.
• They observe the stark contrast in clothing and living conditions compared to First University.
• They decide to find accommodation in a different district but realize it's not feasible due to Beta Town's layout.
• Zheng Qing and his friends buy 'red rubber band' amulets from children to help them.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing shows empathy and understanding towards the less fortunate, buying amulets to help the children.
• Xin Fatty displays a mix of arrogance and practicality, initially wanting to leave the North District due to discomfort but later admitting his familiarity with the area.
• Xiao Xiao demonstrates analytical thinking, testing the amulets' effectiveness despite their low cost.

Significant Themes

• Social Inequality: The stark contrast between the wealthy students at First University and the impoverished Tricksters in Beta Town highlights social inequality.
• Empathy and Compassion: Zheng Qing's decision to buy amulets from the children shows empathy and compassion towards the less fortunate.
• Prejudice and Stereotypes: The group's initial discomfort and Fatty's later admission of familiarity challenge stereotypes about Tricksters and the North District.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing, Xin Fatty, and Xiao Xiao interact, showing a mix of camaraderie, mutual understanding, and occasional disagreements.
• The group interacts with local children, buying amulets, showing kindness despite their initial discomfort with the environment.
• Zheng Qing and Xin Fatty have a brief argument about the feasibility of switching districts.

Chapter Thirty-Six: Going Deeper

Key Plot Points and Events

• The chapter explores the northern district of Beta Town, contrasting its prosperous dock area with the desolate and chaotic concave area.
• Zheng Qing and his companions encounter an old trickster living in a garbage dump, who performs a small magic trick.
• Zheng Qing expresses surprise and disbelief that wizards could be reduced to beggars, leading to a discussion about the lives of tricksters in the concave area.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing: Realizes the harsh reality of life for some wizards, challenging his preconceived notions about magic and wizards.
• Xiao Xiao: Shows empathy and understanding towards the tricksters in the concave area, revealing his philosophical views on life and dreams.
• Xin Fatty: Demonstrates his enthusiasm for recording and documenting their experiences.

Significant Themes

• The contrast between prosperity and poverty, and the harsh reality hidden beneath the surface.
• The dreams and ambitions of young tricksters, and the reasons they remain trapped in the concave area.
• The comfort zone of life and spirit, and the courage to venture into the unknown.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Xiao Xiao: Zheng Qing asks Xiao Xiao about the old trickster, leading to a conversation about the lives of tricksters in the concave area.
• Zheng Qing and Xin Fatty: Zheng Qing shares his thoughts on the old trickster with Xin Fatty, who records Xiao Xiao's comments about the concave area.
• Zheng Qing and the old trickster: Zheng Qing is initially startled by the old trickster but eventually shows him kindness by throwing a copper coin into his hat.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The young wizards search for lodging in Beta Town's north district and find "Yang Parnell's Inn," which has strict entry controls and discriminatory policies.
• They stay at the inn, experiencing its peculiar atmosphere and expensive rates.
• Zheng Qing expresses concern about their expenses, and Xin Fatty mentions Fox Five, who manages the store's accounts.
• The trio navigates the grimy, desolate streets of the north district, heading towards the Genie's Hut at Gu Diao Street.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing shows concern for their finances and expresses regret for his actions in the past incident.
• Xiao Xiao displays his knowledge of the area and remains calm and collected.
• Xin Fatty reveals his familiarity with the north district's reputation for entertainment and his awareness of Zheng Qing's past actions.

Significant Themes

• Discrimination and prejudice, as seen in the inn's policies and the north district's treatment of its residents.
• The stark contrast between the north district and the rest of Beta Town, highlighting social inequality.
• Zheng Qing's struggle with responsibility and pride, reflecting his growth as a character.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing, Xiao Xiao, and Xin Fatty continue to travel and interact together, with Zheng Qing and Xin Fatty bickering occasionally.
• Zheng Qing and Xiao Xiao have a brief exchange about Zheng Qing's past actions, with Xiao Xiao offering a critical but honest assessment.
• The trio's dynamic is shown to be comfortable and familiar, with each member contributing to their shared goals.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing and his companions arrive at Gu Diao Street, where they feel conspicuous due to their attire.
• They search for the Genie's Hut, a small magic club for young people who failed the First University entrance exam but wish to continue studying magic.
• Zheng Qing learns that the members of the Genie's Hut prefer to explore and research forgotten magic fragments rather than preparing for exams.
• They reach the Genie's Hut, a two-story wooden building with a garden, where the first floor is a Sakura Sake Bar, and the second floor is the magic club.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing: Struggles to understand the hierarchy and dynamics of the Wizarding World, particularly the disdain for wizards from other academies and the lack of fairness in the system.
• Xiao Xiao: Explains the societal structure and attitudes of the Wizarding World, showing a deeper understanding of its politics and culture.
• Xin Fatty: Provides additional context and insights, supporting Xiao Xiao's explanations.

Significant Themes

• Hierarchy and disdain within the Wizarding World, particularly among young wizards in Beta Town.
• The pursuit of freedom and justice over fairness, as per Alpha's values.
• The importance of perseverance and self-study, as demonstrated by the members of the Genie's Hut.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing, Xiao Xiao, and Xin Fatty discuss the nature and purpose of the Genie's Hut, leading to Zheng Qing's realization of the harsh realities faced by some young wizards.
• Zheng Qing, Xiao Xiao, and Xin Fatty engage in a debate about fairness and freedom in the Wizarding World, with Xiao Xiao and Xin Fatty presenting Alpha's perspective, while Zheng Qing expresses his Jiuyou Academy viewpoint.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Three students from First University Jiuyou Academy, Zheng Qing, Xiao Xiao, and Xin Fatty, arrive at 33 Gu Diao Street in Beta Town's North District, seeking a recruitment invitation from the Genie's Hut.
• They are greeted by a young woman who initially mistakes them for a different kind of visitor, hinting at the establishment's reputation.
• After being ushered in, they wait in the courtyard for Colmar de Genie, who is currently occupied.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing: Shows caution and concern about the mission's legality and potential risks.
• Xiao Xiao: Demonstrates knowledge about the Genie's Hut and its owner, Corrado Genie, and his daughter, Colmar de Genie.
• Xin Fatty: Exhibits a mischievous and lewd side, but also displays knowledge about local rumors and events.

Significant Themes

• The mission's potential illegality and the students' hesitation to take it on.
• The reputation of the Genie's Hut and its association with tricksters.
• The inheritance of noble titles and the extinction of noble lines, as discussed in relation to Colmar de Genie.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing, Xiao Xiao, and Xin Fatty discuss the nature of the Genie's Hut and the mission they've been sent to complete.
• Zheng Qing and Xin Fatty express their disinterest in learning about noble lineages.
• The young woman who greets them initially mistakes the students' intentions and later apologizes for the wait.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The male wizards arrive at a club for a job interview, led by a girl who works there.
• The club is dimly lit and has a piano in the center, surrounded by potential hires.
• Zheng Qing, Xin Fatty, and Xiao Xiao order drinks, with Zheng Qing and Xiao Xiao paying with Silver Horn and Copper Coins, respectively.
• Zheng Qing recognizes their employer, Colmar, the Vice President of the First University Student Union, who had pushed him twice before.
• A boy fails the 'evaluation' and leaves, revealing Colmar sitting by the piano.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing: Realizes the identity of their employer and feels betrayed by Xiao Xiao's decision.
• Xin Fatty: Struggles with the expensive drink prices and hopes Zheng Qing can get their bill waived.
• Xiao Xiao: Admits to choosing Colmar as their employer because he knows her and finds her more reliable than the other option, Sephrano.

Significant Themes

• Recognition and betrayal: Zheng Qing feels betrayed when he learns that Xiao Xiao knew their employer and didn't inform him.
• Reliability and trust: Xiao Xiao values reliability in their employer, choosing Colmar over Sephrano.
• Financial struggle: Xin Fatty struggles with the expensive drink prices, highlighting the financial difficulties they face.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Xiao Xiao: Zheng Qing feels betrayed by Xiao Xiao's decision to choose Colmar as their employer without telling him. Their interaction is tense, with Zheng Qing glaring at Xiao Xiao and Xiao Xiao avoiding his gaze.
• Zheng Qing and Xin Fatty: Xin Fatty hopes Zheng Qing can get their bill waived, showing his trust in Zheng Qing's connection with Colmar.
• The girl and the male wizards: The girl leading them is enthusiastic about her job but becomes displeased when Zheng Qing declines her sales pitch for snacks.

Key Plot Points and Events

• A witch, Colmar, plays Beethoven's Symphony No. 5 in C minor, while a young man, under hypnosis (Soul Interrogation), describes his bleak future.
• The symphony's movements correspond to the young man's narrative, revealing his despair and self-loathing.
• Colmar welcomes the young man as her brother, suggesting he's now part of her coven or cult.

Character Developments

• Colmar: Shows empathy and understanding towards the young man's plight, guiding him into her group.
• The Young Man: Under hypnosis, he reveals his deep-seated insecurities and fears about his future as a Trickster.

Significant Themes

• Destiny and Free Will: The young man feels trapped by his destiny, but Colmar offers him a way to seize control.
• Acceptance and Belonging: The young man finds acceptance in Colmar's group, suggesting a theme of finding one's place in the world.

Character Interactions

• Colmar and the Young Man: Colmar guides and comforts the young man, welcoming him into her group.
• Zheng Qing and Xiao Xiao: They observe the scene, with Zheng Qing feeling uncomfortable about the hypnosis, while Xiao Xiao seems accustomed to it.

Key Plot Points

• The Witch, Colmar, greets Zheng Qing and his friends at Wander Bar.
• Zheng Qing and his friends learn that Colmar is the client behind the commission notice they took down.
• Colmar offers them drinks, revealing her profit-making strategy.
• Xiao Xiao presents the commission letter to Colmar, and she scrutinizes them.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing feels increasingly uncomfortable around Colmar.
• Xiao Xiao and Xin Fatty show amusement at Zheng Qing's situation.
• Colmar displays her business acumen and manipulative nature.

Significant Themes

• Manipulation and deception in business.
• The power dynamics between individuals.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Colmar's interactions are tense and awkward.
• Xiao Xiao and Xin Fatty tease Zheng Qing.
• Colmar toys with Zheng Qing and his friends, enjoying her power over them.