Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Xiao and Li Meng meet under the Cat Fruit Tree.
• Li Meng reveals she prefers rabbits over cats and likes lazy fish.
• Xiao Xiao tells the Black Cat about rumors at school, suggesting he's at the School Hospital.
• The Black Cat is doing homework on the tree, causing Xiao Xiao to express disbelief.

Character Developments

• Li Meng: Shows her preference for rabbits and lazy lifestyles, displays a lack of interest in cats.
• Xiao Xiao: Demonstrates concern for the Black Cat's whereabouts and well-being, tries to clarify rumors about him.
• The Black Cat (Zheng Qing): Reveals he's doing homework on the tree, shows he's aware of the rumors but doesn't care.

Significant Themes

• The power of rumors and their impact on individuals (Xiao Xiao's concern for the Black Cat).
• The contrast between Li Meng's preferences and reality (liking rabbits but keeping a pigeon as a pet).
• The Black Cat's nonchalance towards the rumors, showing his independence and resilience.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Xiao and Li Meng: They discuss their preferences for pets and life philosophies, with Xiao Xiao humorously teasing Li Meng.
• Xiao Xiao and the Black Cat: They discuss the rumors at school, with Xiao Xiao showing concern and the Black Cat being indifferent.
• Li Meng and the Black Cat: Li Meng initially mistakes the Black Cat for a white cat she knows, but later spits in disgust due to her superstitious belief in black cats as bad omens.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing discovers that wizards celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival, contrary to his previous belief.
• The school is decorated with dragon symbols, and students are involved in festival preparations.
• Zheng Qing learns that the festival is for exorcism, prayer, and possibly preventing an Outer God invasion.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing: Realizes that wizards have customs he wasn't aware of and feels resigned to eating zongzi.
• Dylan: Shows enthusiasm and seriousness in preparing for the festival, emphasizing the importance of personal involvement in rituals.
• Xin Fatty: Performs shamanic dances and ensures everyone participates in the festival customs.
• Xiao Xiao: Investigates the mysterious dog under the Cat Fruit Tree but finds no anomalies.

Significant Themes

• Cultural exchange and understanding: Zheng Qing learns about a new aspect of wizard culture.
• Ritual and tradition: The importance of personal involvement in rituals is emphasized.
• Mystery and investigation: Xiao Xiao's investigation of the dog under the Cat Fruit Tree highlights the ongoing mystery.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Dylan: Discuss the festival preparations and the purpose behind them.
• Zheng Qing and Xiao Xiao: Share information about the mysterious dog and its lack of anomalies.
• Xin Fatty and Zheng Qing: Discuss Zheng Qing's dislike for zongzi and compare it to processed foods and witch cosmetics.
• All characters: Interact in the dormitory, sharing information and opinions about the festival and the mysterious dog.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The chapter takes place during a Potion Class on the Dragon Boat Festival.
• Students are delayed due to festival rituals, and Zheng Qing interacts with the Stick Figure at the classroom door.
• Professor Li brings a Bronze Basin containing Mulberry Leaf Bath Water to the class, and students wash their hands in it as a symbolic gesture.
• The professor discusses various aspects of potion knowledge related to the Dragon Boat Festival.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing shows kindness and respect towards the Stick Figure, earning its favor.
• Professor Li demonstrates a lighter, more approachable side, easing the class's academic tension.

Significant Themes

• Respect for traditions and rituals, particularly those related to the Dragon Boat Festival.
• The power and significance of potions and their ingredients.
• The importance of knowledge and understanding in the world of potions.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing interacts with the Stick Figure, Li Meng, and Jiang Yu, showcasing his friendly and respectful nature.
• Professor Li engages with students, sharing knowledge and fostering a more relaxed atmosphere in the classroom.
• Students interact with each other, sharing laughter and camaraderie during the hand-washing ritual.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Students are preparing for their final exam, with Professor Li emphasizing the importance of understanding different types of medicinal water (High Noon Water, Rootless Water, Dragon Boat Water).
• Zheng Qing and his friends discuss their observations of a peculiar dog-like cat on the Cat Fruit Tree.
• Zhang Jixin shares his experiences following his brother's political campaign, mentioning meeting notable hunters like De Flamengo.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing shows concern for Nicholas, who is now a North District Wizard, and is reassured by Liu Feifei's confidence in him.
• Zhang Jixin expresses his boredom with his brother's campaign but enjoys meeting prominent hunters.

Significant Themes

• The importance of understanding and correctly applying knowledge, as emphasized by Professor Li's discussion on medicinal water and his use of past mistakes as teaching examples.
• Observation and alertness, as highlighted by Xiao Xiao's advice regarding the peculiar dog-like cat.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing, Xin Fatty, Xiao Xiao, and Zhang Jixin engage in casual conversation while washing their hands, demonstrating their camaraderie.
• Professor Li interacts with the students by asking questions and providing guidance, fostering a learning environment.
• Nicholas stands out as a knowledgeable student, answering Professor Li's question confidently and earning praise from his peers.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Liu Feifei and Nicholas receive applause for their answers in class, leading to a lively atmosphere.
• Professor Li discusses love potions and their prevention.
• Zheng Qing reflects on his decreasing thoughts about Ilena and his envy of Nicholas and Liu Feifei's open relationship.
• Zheng Qing goes to the library and finds his usual spot vacant, leading to a nostalgic encounter with Ilena's past presence.
• Zheng Qing decides to teach Ilena talismans through practical application.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing: Realizes he's been thinking less about Ilena, feels guilty, and envies Nicholas and Liu Feifei's relationship. He decides to help Ilena with talismans using practical methods.
• Ilena: Not directly present, but her influence is felt through Zheng Qing's memories and his decision to help her with talismans.

Significant Themes

• Love and Relationships: The chapter explores the theme of love and relationships, with Zheng Qing envying Nicholas and Liu Feifei's open relationship, and reflecting on his own feelings for Ilena.
• Learning and Growth: The theme of learning and growth is present as Zheng Qing decides to help Ilena improve her understanding of talismans through practical application.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Ilena: Although Ilena is not physically present, Zheng Qing interacts with her through his memories and decides to help her with talismans.
• Zheng Qing and Xiao Xiao: Xiao Xiao nudges Zheng Qing to focus during class, showing concern for his friend's well-being.
• Liu Feifei and Nicholas: Their open display of affection and intelligence in class leads to a lively atmosphere and envy from Zheng Qing.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing finds himself in the Book Mountain Hall's laboratory, unsure how he got there.
• He assists Ilena, the Gypsy Witch, in preparing for a talisman-making experiment.
• Zheng Qing has a disturbing dream about Faceless Demons while napping in the library.
• Xiao Xiao finds Zheng Qing asleep and gives him a mint-flavored Smoke Candy to wake up.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing shows confusion and disorientation at the start, but later exhibits knowledge about protective gear for wizards.
• Ilena displays impatience and annoyance with Zheng Qing's lack of attention.
• Xiao Xiao demonstrates concern for Zheng Qing's well-being and offers helpful advice about studying habits and the use of stimulating candies.

Significant Themes

• Protection and Safety: The importance of protective gear and safety measures in wizard experiments is emphasized.
• Stimulants and Addiction: The use of Smoke Candy and other stimulants is discussed, highlighting their potential dangers and addictive nature.
• Dream and Reality: Zheng Qing's dream about Faceless Demons contrasts with the mundane reality of the library, suggesting a disconnect between his fears and the actual world.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Ilena interact awkwardly, with Zheng Qing complimenting Ilena and her responding with a warning about the phrase "features like a painting."
• Zheng Qing and Xiao Xiao interact casually, with Xiao Xiao showing concern for Zheng Qing's sleep habits and offering him a Smoke Candy to help him stay awake.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing and Xiao Xiao discuss the saying "Hinder others' romance, and you'll be kicked to death by horses."
• Xiao Xiao complains about couples disturbing him in the study room.
• Zheng Qing suggests Xiao Xiao bring his girlfriend to the study room.
• Xiao Xiao misunderstands Zheng Qing's situation, thinking he's heartbroken over Ilena.
• Zheng Qing gets annoyed by Xiao Xiao's misconceptions and leaves the library.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing: Starts to realize Xiao Xiao's misunderstanding about his relationship with Ilena. He becomes frustrated and decides to focus on his studies instead.
• Xiao Xiao: Shows concern for Zheng Qing's well-being, assuming he's heartbroken. He tries to offer advice but ends up annoying Zheng Qing.

Significant Themes

• Misunderstandings and communication issues.
• The impact of assumptions on relationships.
• The importance of focusing on personal growth despite external distractions.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Xiao Xiao: Their conversation starts friendly but turns tense due to Xiao Xiao's incorrect assumptions about Zheng Qing's feelings for Ilena.
• Zheng Qing and the unknown librarian: Zheng Qing's actions disturb the librarian, leading to a warning to keep quiet in the library.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing, a Jiuyou Academy student, gets lost in the library for the fifth time while trying to find and read various study guides and exam strategies.
• He spends over an hour and a half in the library, violating the school's regulations, and is eventually thrown out by Mr. Octopus, the librarian.
• Zheng Qing arrives late for his afternoon elective class, with only a few minutes to spare.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing: Struggles with time management and focus, often getting lost in his studies. He lacks conviction and self-awareness in managing his time and priorities.
• Mr. Octopus: Acts as the librarian and becomes frustrated with Zheng Qing's repeated incidents of getting lost in the library.

Significant Themes

• The dangers of losing oneself in knowledge and study materials.
• The importance of self-awareness and conviction in managing one's time and priorities.
• The distinction between understanding the 'macro' and 'micro' levels of conflicts and situations.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Mr. Octopus: The librarian grows increasingly irritated with Zheng Qing's repeated incidents of getting lost in the library, eventually throwing him out.
• Zheng Qing and Xiao Xiao: The Doctor scolds Zheng Qing for his lack of conviction and self-awareness, leading to Zheng Qing's late arrival for class. Despite this, they maintain a friendly and open relationship, with Zheng Qing sharing his understanding of conflicts between wizards with Xiao Xiao.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing receives a sudden notification to take a day off from his lab work, leaving him with no suitable place to study. He decides to nap in his dormitory.
• Mr. Wu unexpectedly visits Zheng Qing's dormitory, suggesting they move their next lesson to that day.
• Mr. Wu takes Zheng Qing on a lesson, causing him to experience a sensation of falling from a great height.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing: Shows initiative in understanding the content of the third lesson and is open to Mr. Wu's unconventional teaching methods.
• Mr. Wu: Demonstrates his ability to adapt and teach on the spot, using Zheng Qing's thesis as a starting point for the lesson.

Significant Themes

• The concept of "the brave are not fearful" from the ancient text, which Zheng Qing is about to learn.
• The importance of understanding one's fears and anxieties, as hinted by Mr. Wu's question.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Mr. Wu: Their relationship deepens as Mr. Wu continues to guide Zheng Qing's understanding of the Gentleman's Way.
• Zheng Qing and Tuantuan: The fat cat's presence and behavior subtly influence Zheng Qing's actions and emotions.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing visits the Museum of Magical History at First University.
• He sees exhibits of humans (from the muggle world) treated as specimens, preserved with Potions, and displayed with other historical artifacts.
• Mr. asks Zheng Qing what makes people afraid, and Zheng Qing suggests 'prejudice' and 'ignorance' as answers.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing: Realizes the Wizarding World's prejudiced view of muggles, leading to a sense of gloom and confusion.
• Mr.: Shows understanding and insight into the complex relationship between the Wizarding World and the muggle world.

Significant Themes

• Prejudice: The Wizarding World's misconceptions and fear of muggles, and vice versa.
• Ignorance: The lack of understanding between the two worlds.
• Truth: The revelation of the Wizarding World's treatment of muggles as specimens.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Mr.: Zheng Qing seeks Mr.'s guidance, and they engage in a thought-provoking conversation about the relationship between the Wizarding World and the muggle world.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing and Mister have a conversation in a secluded patch of grass outside the museum.
• Mister discusses the concept of 'truth' and its relevance to the Wizarding World.
• He reveals that wizards are not fundamentally different from demons.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing shows curiosity and bravery in seeking knowledge, despite feeling uncomfortable with Mister's revelations.
• Mister displays a profound understanding of the world and its 'truths', challenging Zheng Qing's perceptions.

Significant Themes

• Ignorance vs. Knowledge: Mister implies that ignorance can be a source of fearlessness and progress, while knowledge of 'truths' can be terrifying.
• The Nature of Demons and Wizards: The chapter explores the similarities between wizards and demons, challenging the binary view of good and evil.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Mister engage in a mentor-mentee dynamic, with Mister sharing his wisdom and Zheng Qing questioning and learning.
• Their interaction is marked by respect and curiosity, with Zheng Qing showing deference to Mister's knowledge and Mister appreciating Zheng Qing's eagerness to learn.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Mister reveals that North District Wizards 'consume' life force, including other wizards', for their spells.
• He discusses the harsh treatment of Tricksters by other wizards.
• Mister takes Zheng Qing to a void to show him spheres of light, which are beings from the depths of space (like Yog-Sothoth), causing Zheng Qing's 'Order' seed to stir.
• Mister explains that demons are beings that erode and twist the actions of the living, often attaching to objects and 'infecting' wizards.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing becomes more aware of the harsh realities of the Wizarding World and the true nature of demons.
• Mister demonstrates his vast knowledge and power, taking Zheng Qing to a void to show him otherworldly beings.

Significant Themes

• The harsh and cannibalistic nature of the Wizarding World.
• The true nature of demons as beings that erode and twist the actions of the living.
• The connection between beings from the depths of space and demons.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Mister discuss the nature of demons and wizards.
• Mister shows Zheng Qing the beings from the depths of space, causing Zheng Qing's 'Order' seed to stir.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing and Mister discuss the differing beliefs of wizards and demons about the world's origin and their roles.
• They return to the Wizarding World, and Zheng Qing learns about the origins of the Moon Clan and other creatures from Mister.
• Zheng Qing is shocked to discover that many wizards are aware of the connection between demonic erosion and the creation of new races but maintain a 'tacit understanding' about it.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing begins to question the established norms and truths of the Wizarding World, showing signs of growth and critical thinking.
• Mister reveals more of his knowledge and understanding, positioning himself as a wise and knowledgeable mentor figure.

Significant Themes

• Truth and Perception: The truth is subjective and incomplete, shaped by individual biases and perspectives.
• Power and Motivation: The conflict between wizards and demons drives progress and innovation in the Wizarding World.
• Hope and Ambition: The possibility of becoming a legend through demonic erosion tempts many wizards, but the risks are high.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Mister's conversation deepens their relationship, with Mister acting as a guide and Zheng Qing as an eager learner.
• Zheng Qing's reaction to the revelations about the Moon Clan and other creatures shows his growing awareness and concern for the world around him.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing learns that the path to becoming a demon is traversable and far-reaching, but it's amoral.
• The teacher shares insights from Colmar and one of his students about the nature of good and evil, and the importance of personal choice and belief.
• Zheng Qing observes an ant struggling to move forward, drawing parallels to his own journey.
• Zheng Qing asks about resisting demonic corruption after being bitten by a demon.
• The teacher explains that belief is the key to resisting demonic corruption, using examples related to the four colleges of First University.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing: He begins to understand the complexities of the path to becoming a demon and the importance of belief in resisting corruption. He also shows concern for his friends' safety.
• The Teacher: He demonstrates wisdom and experience, offering guidance to Zheng Qing without judgment. He shows empathy for those who have succumbed to demonic corruption.

Significant Themes

• The moral ambiguity of the path to power.
• The importance of personal belief and conviction in maintaining one's identity and resisting corruption.
• The role of education and mentorship in guiding individuals through complex moral landscapes.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and the Teacher: Zheng Qing seeks guidance from the Teacher, who offers him wisdom and support without being overly directive.
• Zheng Qing and the Ant: Zheng Qing observes the ant's struggle, drawing parallels to his own journey and the challenges faced by those seeking power.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Mister reveals that the four academies of First University were established to strengthen students' traits against demonic energy erosion.
• He mentions the Xuanhuang Wood and its fruit, the Mystic Yellow Fruit, which can purify demon bloodlines and enhance resistance to demonic energy.
• It's discovered that the only known Xuanhuang Wood is in the Black Prison, and the professors are there to prevent demons from obtaining the fruit.
• Mister reveals that Dean Yao of Jiuyou Academy is originally a Great Demon with a permit from the Wizard Alliance.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing learns about the true nature of his dean and struggles to process this information.
• Mister shows his knowledge of the world's secrets and his ability to keep calm under surprising circumstances.

Significant Themes

• The blurred line between wizards and demons, and the manipulation of public perception.
• The power of propaganda and the influence of emotions over logic and truth.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Mister have a private conversation where Mister shares shocking revelations with Zheng Qing.
• Zheng Qing's reaction to the news about Dean Yao highlights his initial disbelief and fear.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Mr. Wu reveals that demons and wizards are essentially the same, and that wizard society is also human-devouring.
• Zheng Qing learns that Professor Yao is an ancient demon.
• Mr. Wu explains that not everyone can accept the truth about demons, and that the school controls Professor Yao's appetite with blood packs.
• Zheng Qing signs a Silent Contract, understanding that some wizards can break its bonds.
• Mr. Wu reveals he's teaching Zheng Qing about the 'essence' of being a wizard, not just magic or fighting demons.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing becomes more aware of the harsh truths about the wizarding world and the nature of demons.
• Zheng Qing signs another Silent Contract, acknowledging the power of these agreements.
• Mr. Wu shows his wisdom and understanding of the deeper aspects of wizardry.

Significant Themes

• The truth about demons and the wizarding world.
• The power of Silent Contracts and the exceptions to their rules.
• The 'essence' of being a wizard, a concept beyond magic and incantations.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Mr. Wu have a candid conversation about the nature of demons, wizard society, and the essence of wizardry.
• Zheng Qing signs a Silent Contract with Mr. Wu, acknowledging the power of these agreements.
• Zheng Qing and Mr. Wu discuss the concept of 'essence' and the Three Paths of a Gentleman.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing remembers Mister's mention of Professor Yao becoming the Vice Principal, causing him unease.
• Zheng Qing, Xiao Xiao, and Xin Fatty discuss their plans to study at the Library.
• Zheng Qing and Xiao Xiao encounter Professor Yao on their way to the Library, causing Zheng Qing discomfort.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing grapples with the revelation about Professor Yao's true identity, affecting his mood and studies.
• Xiao Xiao remains focused on his studies, showing no signs of stress or distraction.
• Xin Fatty maintains his usual cheerful demeanor, prioritizing his studies and supporting his friends.

Significant Themes

• Trust and Betrayal: Zheng Qing's struggle with the revelation about Professor Yao highlights the theme of trust and betrayal.
• Responsibility and Duty: The students' focus on their final exams despite the threat of Outer Gods emphasizes their sense of responsibility and duty.
• Appearance vs Reality: The contrast between Professor Yao's public image and Zheng Qing's private knowledge of him explores the theme of appearance versus reality.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Xiao Xiao share their concerns about their studies and the upcoming exams, showing their camaraderie.
• Zheng Qing, Xiao Xiao, and Xin Fatty discuss their plans, demonstrating their friendship and mutual support.
• Zheng Qing and Professor Yao's encounter highlights the tension and discomfort Zheng Qing feels towards the Professor, reflecting the impact of the "Truth" revelation.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zheng Qing and Xiao Xiao encounter Professor Yao, who teases Zheng Qing about his grades and hints at his true nature.
• Zheng Qing and his friends find the library full, so they decide to use experiment benches instead.
• They witness the library's octopus administrator punishing a student for contaminating the library floor.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing: Becomes more cautious and anxious around Professor Yao after learning about his true nature.
• Professor Yao: Reveals his true nature to Zheng Qing, hinting at his past actions.
• Xin Fatty: Shows unexpected insight into the history of wizard education and civilization development.

Significant Themes

• The tension between old and new traditions in the wizarding world.
• The consequences of revealing one's true nature or secrets.
• The struggle between maintaining order and personal freedoms.

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing and Professor Yao: Their interaction reveals Professor Yao's true nature and Zheng Qing's growing unease around him.
• Zheng Qing, Xiao Xiao, and Xin Fatty: The trio works together to find a place to study, with Fatty showing unexpected depth in his commentary on the history of wizard education.
• The library administrator octopus and a student: The administrator's punishment of the student highlights the strict rules and potential harsh consequences for breaking them in the wizarding world.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The final exams for Potions and Alchemy are completed quickly.
• A sudden thunderstorm occurs outside the library.
• Zheng Qing accidentally offends the librarian, an octopus-like creature, and gets beaten up.
• Zheng Qing and his friends are invited by Jiang Yu to study in a private study room for top students.

Character Developments

• Zheng Qing shows his rebellious side by challenging the librarian's authority.
• Jiang Yu demonstrates her friendly and considerate nature by inviting Zheng Qing and his friends to study with her.
• Xin Fatty and Xiao Xiao remain loyal friends, helping Zheng Qing after his encounter with the librarian.

Significant Themes

• The struggle against tradition and authority (Zheng Qing's challenge to the librarian).
• The importance of friendship and camaraderie (Xin Fatty and Xiao Xiao's support for Zheng Qing).

Character Interactions

• Zheng Qing's interaction with the librarian highlights the creature's temper and the students' fear of it.
• Zheng Qing, Xin Fatty, and Xiao Xiao's friendship is strengthened as they help each other.
• Jiang Yu's invitation to Zheng Qing and his friends shows her kindness and willingness to help others.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The group enters a senior students' study room, unique for having Door Gods and a cleaner, drier environment than outside.
• Li Meng brings a toad as a gift to Nicholas and Liu Feifei, who accept it and place it in a basket with other "spell materials."
• Zheng Qing finds a newspaper with a comic and article about Nicholas, suggesting he might be related to the Outer God Shub-Niggurath.

Character Developments

• Nicholas is portrayed as a controversial figure, having failed exams and having conflicts with other students, yet given a third chance at First University.
• Zheng Qing shows curiosity and attention to detail, noticing the newspaper and its content about Nicholas.

Significant Themes

• Perception and reality: The article challenges the perception of Nicholas as a failure and suggests a hidden truth about his lineage.
• Opportunity and second chances: Nicholas is given a third chance at First University, reflecting the theme of redemption and new beginnings.

Character Interactions

• Li Meng and Nicholas: Li Meng brings a toad as a gift to Nicholas, showing a friendly and open attitude towards him.
• Zheng Qing and Xin Fatty: Zheng Qing helps Xin Fatty pick up a fallen newspaper, leading to their discovery of the article about Nicholas.
• Zheng Qing and Xiao Xiao: Zheng Qing hesitates about where to sit, considering both Xiao Xiao and Banner's presence.