Arc 1Hongtian Market Rises
Shi Jian seized control of the Sun Clan, built Hongtian City into a growing cultivation market, and strengthened the clan while navigating threats from Devil Cultivators and White Cloud Temple. After three years of progress, a demon-beast tide drew Shi Jian and the Sun Clan’s forces to Cangshi Valley for a regional defense.
- Shi Jian killed the Lin and Ye attackers, then helped Sun Hangchun seize their clans’ resources and bind their people to the Sun Clan.
- Shi Jian replaced Sun Hangchun with Sun Bo'an, who led the third branch in killing the first and second branches and took control of the Sun Clan under Shi Jian’s direction.
- Shi Jian strengthened the clan, awakened Demon Beast dogs for Sun Mao and Sun Yao, and broke through to the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage as Devil Cultivators began threatening the region.
- Shi Jian killed Devil Cultivators at the Land God Temple and joined Lei Lie and Yunsong in defeating those who returned, earning the Sun Clan new tax rights and recognition from White Cloud Temple.
- Shi Jian gave Sun Bo'an cultivation and trade instructions, and Sun Bo'an reorganized the clan around contribution points, expanded Hongtian Market, and established a successful spirit-pet business selling Pathfinding Rats.
- Zhao Qing offered Shi Jian a position as White Cloud Temple’s guardian protector, but Shi Jian refused and returned to focus on strengthening the Sun Clan as White Cloud Commandery faced turmoil.
- After three years in seclusion, Shi Jian returned to find Hongtian Market expanded and Sun Mao producing Lesser Beast Essence Pills for Demon Beasts.
- When White Cloud Temple summoned the nine counties to defend against a demon-beast tide, Shi Jian led the Sun Clan’s forces to Cangshi Valley, where guards challenged their arrival.