Divine Destiny Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Divine Destiny Synopsis
Zhang Yin Yin, the bright and flamboyant senior sister of the Xixuan sect, who goes down to the mountains to "abduct" Ji Ruochen, a fake immortal who wants to cultivate himself to become an immortal.
Zhang Yinyin wants to take him on the road to immortality but later fails to do so when the other party "steals" the top spot on the Qingyun list.
They start a love-hate relationship, turn into foxes for love, and eventually join hands to save the world.
Divine Destiny Recap
Episode 1 Recap
Ten thousand years ago, in the extremes of the Heavenly Realm, an immortal patrolling the Heavenly River grew lonely from endlessly reading the Book of Heaven. To ease his solitude, he used his power to transform a large bluestone by his side into the Bluestone Immortal. However, she later made a grave error by mistakenly releasing a Great Heavenly Demon, a violation of celestial law.
Unwilling to let her face punishment alone, the immortal patrolman voluntarily accepted demotion to the mortal realm alongside her. They pledged, with the bluestone as their symbol, to stay together for one hundred lifetimes before returning to the immortal realm. After ninety-nine lifetimes of companionship, in his final mortal life, the banished immortal recalled the sacred chants by the Heavenly River and the green eyes of his companion.
This prompted him to journey to Kunlun to find the Bluestone Immortal and fulfill their century-long promise. At the same time, the Chaotic Energy that sustained the balance of the Three Realms was weakening, heralding a great catastrophe. An oracle revealed that only a banished immortal, born with a blue magical stone, could avert this disaster, sending the world's various sects scrambling to find this prophesied savior.
In a remote desert inn, a young waiter, Ji Ruochen, enthralled guests with tales of immortal cultivation, dreaming of one day achieving the Tao and protecting the people. His adoptive mother, Huaniang, worried by his obsession, tore up his cultivation manual, fearing he would abandon her and her partner, Zhang Wancai. The couple, who had adopted Ruochen as an infant, secretly ran the inn as a front to drug and rob their guests.
Following their plan, Ruochen successfully drugged two travelers. Soon after, an extraordinary new guest arrived. Tasked with drugging him as well, Ruochen offered the guest tea. When the guest grew suspicious, Ruochen drank the tea himself to feign innocence, but his subsequent actions exposed their scheme. The enraged guest, revealing himself to be a powerful cultivator, seized Huaniang. During the struggle, a falling lantern struck the cultivator on the head, knocking him unconscious.
Believing him dead, Ruochen, Huaniang, and Zhang Wancai loaded the body onto a cart, intending to push it off a cliff. Before they could, Huaniang noticed a luminous blue pendant around the man's neck. Seeing its value, she took it and placed it around Ruochen's neck. Upon returning to the inn, they were confronted by armed men from multiple sects. They had come for the banished immortal, and seeing the radiant pendant on Ruochen, they mistook him for their target.
A chaotic fight ensued as each sect tried to claim him. Amid the fray, Ruochen was captivated by the skill and beauty of Zhang Yinyin, the chief disciple of the Xixuan Sect's Taixuan Palace. He decided he wanted to join her sect, and she ultimately rescued him, fleeing with him toward Xixuan. At the sect, Hierarch Ziwei used a Psychic Mirror to verify Ruochen's identity.
Terrified of being exposed as an imposter, Ruochen stood before it, but the mirror showed no reaction, confusing the sect leaders. Anxious, Zhang Yinyin pushed him closer. At that moment, the blue pendant on Ruochen's neck glowed brightly. Hierarch Ziwei immediately declared that the pendant's spiritual light was the mirror's divine confirmation of Ruochen's identity as the banished immortal. Having stood too close to the mirror, Zhang Yinyin collapsed from a severe headache.
Her parents, Jingxiao and his wife, rushed to stabilize her with their vital energy, warning her that the mirror harms those with demonic energy. They later revealed that she has a "demon-rearing root" inside her, and the mirror's power had reacted to her latent demonic aura. Despite her suffering, Zhang Yinyin vowed to train diligently to defend her title as champion of the Qingyun List.
Hierarch Ziwei formally named the newcomer Ruochen, meaning "like dust," and gifted him his personal Chiying Sword. Ruochen was placed under the temporary guidance of multiple lineages. While touring the grounds, he learned from a senior disciple that Yinyin has suffered from an ailment of invasive cold energy since childhood, which is managed by her parents' vital energy.
Ruochen was given spacious private quarters, a rare privilege that underscored the high expectations placed upon him to ascend to the immortal realm and secure the sect's future. Alone, Ruochen felt the blue pendant on his neck fluctuating between intense heat and cold, and he sternly commanded the "worthless stone" to recognize him as its master.
Meanwhile, Hierarch Ziwei confided in the acting Hierarch that Ruochen's arrival was fated and that he must be protected at all costs from rival factions. Later, while exploring the Library Pavilion, a restricted area he was permitted to enter, Ruochen stumbled upon bizarre, grotesque creatures. Startled and overwhelmed, he instinctively cried out for Zhang Yinyin to save him.
Episode 2 Recap
Newly admitted to Xixuan Sect, Ji Ruochen finds himself in a surprisingly spacious residence, a privilege that seems to exceed even that of the senior disciples. One morning, while exploring, he approaches the scripture library and is suddenly startled by two fierce Cloud-Parting Evil-Repelling Beasts guarding the entrance, which bare their fangs at him. Petrified, Ji Ruochen frantically calls out for Senior Yinyin. Zhang Yinyin swiftly arrives, scolding the beasts and ordering them back to their pedestals.
Relieved, Ji Ruochen thanks her, playfully assuring her that no matter how many wits he loses, one will always be reserved for her. Inside the library, Zhang Yinyin explains that access is a privilege granted only to the first-place winner of the Annual Exam.
She recommends a comprehensive "Book of Cultivation," compiled by various sect Hierarchs, dismissing his previous version as a "pirate edition" and warning him of severe penalties for late returns by recounting her own month-long punishment of washing the beasts. When he requests a more abstruse book, she hands him the thin "Shangqing Mantra," chiding him for underestimating the difficulty of seemingly simple texts.
While Ji Ruochen is engrossed in the "Shangqing Mantra," he panics as the characters on the pages inexplicably vanish. His concern is quickly overshadowed when Li Xuanzhen rushes to inform Zhang Yinyin that her ranking on the Qingyun List has dropped. Zhang Yinyin is incensed upon discovering that Ji Ruochen has not only surpassed her to claim the top spot but has also been given her Chiying Sword.
She laments the years she spent striving for that position, only for him to effortlessly take it upon his arrival. Determined to make him feel ashamed and give up, she declares her intention to retrieve her lesser Qingmu Sword to confront him, despite Li Xuanzhen's skepticism about her chances. Later, Senior Yunfeng, burdened by two injured newcomers who fought over a bed, entrusts Li Xuanzhen with Ji Ruochen's textbooks and uniform.
Zhang Yinyin soon encounters Ji Ruochen after he has changed into the Xixuan uniform. She scolds him for choosing such a high residence, complaining about the arduous climb to reach it. Ji Ruochen retorts that he would gladly endure the climb, recounting his previous harsh life of waking at dawn, sleeping at midnight, and personally composting waste, all for a tiny side room.
Angered by what he perceives as her ingratitude, he declares that their "new and old scores" must be settled. Taken aback, Zhang Yinyin tells him to collect himself. She declares them "implacable enemies," and, as the chief disciple of Taixuan Palace, formally challenges him to a duel for the dignity of all Xixuan disciples.
Ji Ruochen, bewildered, asks what he did to offend her, reminding her of their earlier lighthearted agreement that he would be "her person," but she curtly dismisses him. As Ji Ruochen walks away, Li Xuanzhen comically offers himself as a potential roommate, but Ji Ruochen ignores him. The next morning, during the collective training, Ji Ruochen’s early arrival earns praise for his diligence, though some disciples playfully liken him to a "big clumsy bird."
The training ground is across a treacherous chasm, accessible only by flight. Unable to fly on a sword, Ji Ruochen confesses his inability to cross, drawing mockery from other disciples. He desperately asks for an alternative route, but they tell him to just fly. Zhang Yinyin refuses to help, urging him to prove his supposed innate talent.
Feeling abandoned, Ji Ruochen resigns himself to his fate, stating that with no family, death holds no fear, and promises he won't embarrass her. As the disciples train, they eventually spot Ji Ruochen painstakingly crawling across the chasm's iron chains. His tenacity reminds Zhang Yinyin of her own past struggles. Senior Yunfeng admonishes the impatient disciples, stating this ordeal is a form of cultivation for them as well.
Driven by hunger, the disciples begin to cheer for Ji Ruochen to quicken his pace. With renewed effort, Ji Ruochen accelerates, and a fellow disciple extends a helping hand to guide him the final stretch. Proudly seeking praise from Zhang Yinyin, he is met with silence as she walks away towards dinner, leaving him to wish someone would carry him back.
Later, Ji Ruochen begins practicing the Grand Five-Element Swordsmanship under Master Jingxiao, with Senior Yunfeng assigned to oversee his progress. Unbeknownst to them, Zhang Yinyin observes from a distance and subtly attaches a spirit talisman to his sword. Master Jingxiao and Yunfeng are astonished by Ji Ruochen's seemingly remarkable progress, hailing him as a "once-in-a-millennium cultivation genius." However, Ji Ruochen is baffled, confessing he has no idea how to control the sword.
From her hiding spot, Zhang Yinyin mutters that he is her "nemesis." She later confronts him, accusing him of using the Chiying Sword to slice the Sect Leader's treasured gourd. Ji Ruochen denies it, suggesting someone put a talisman on the sword. When he admits he hasn't mastered the technique, she takes his sword and performs a flawless demonstration. Noticing her pale face, he asks if her old headaches have relapsed.
She dismisses it, explaining her injured hands are from rigorous practice, and offers to teach him more. When he asks if she knows who placed the talisman on his sword, she brushes off the question, stating her only focus is on practice. Meanwhile, a search for a missing young master proves fruitless, and it is suggested that the powerful Imperial Advisor Sun Guo be consulted.
Concurrently, in Qingcheng Mountain, Xuxuan, the Sect Leader of Qingxu, and his junior Xuwang locate the true banished god, Yinfeng, who was left for dead. Noting his spirit has not yet dissipated, they resolve to save him. In a separate event, a Qingxu disciple, punished for releasing a demon, is forced into a "crash method" for cultivation against his will before being banished to the mortal world. Yinfeng eventually awakens in Qingxu Sect, disoriented and with no memory.
Xuxuan deceitfully explains that they saved him after he was poisoned and that a cunning imposter, Ji Ruochen, has assumed his identity in Xixuan Sect. Offering to help him regain his powers and exact revenge, Xuxuan persuades the grateful Yinfeng to join Qingxu Sect as a disciple. Li Xuanzhen takes Ji Ruochen to observe a duel between Shang Qiushui and Ji Bingxian.
Li Xuanzhen explains that Shang Qiushui, a disciple from Sikong Palace, challenges Ji Bingxian, the sole disciple of the Zi Wei Hierarch, every year on the day of Frost's Descent, despite being severely defeated each time. As Ji Bingxian arrives, her icy presence chills the air. The duel is swift and decisive; Shang Qiushui is soundly beaten but vows to return next year. The conversation then shifts to the impending Annual Exam.
Li Xuanzhen suggests that to avoid the pressure of the exam, Ji Ruochen could intentionally make a mistake and get punished to Tianxin Cave. Through this, Ji Ruochen learns that Zhang Yinyin was sent there after the Hierarch discovered she had placed the spirit talisman on his Chiying Sword. Disoriented by this revelation and convinced he is hallucinating from eating too much congee, Ji Ruochen begins to nonsensically recite a mix of cultivation mantras and a list of food dishes.
Episode 3 Recap
Ji Ruochen, while serving a punishment in Tianxin Cave, found Senior Qiushui’s delicious meal of sliced beef in hot chili oil, West Lake fish in vinegar gravy, and tofu crab roe soup in a meal box. Zhang Yinyin arrived, expressing concern over his suffering and insisting he eat. Ruochen mentioned he was looking for a "painting of the secret techniques of the eight schools" that Senior Xuanzhen said would help him pass the Annual Exam.
Zhang Yinyin, after ensuring he'd eaten, revealed the "treasure painting" was actually a masterpiece Xuanzhen drew last year on the cave wall. She then generously detailed the unique skills of the Zhenren of the eight schools, including Ziyun Zhenren's mastery of elixirs and moral swordsmanship, Taiwei Zhenren's tactical deployment of troops, Yuxuan Zhenren's inner cultivation and healing abilities, and her own father's Grand Five-Element Swordsmanship. She even disclosed which Zhenren harbored grudges or jealousy against each other.
Later, Zhang Yinyin demonstrated how Tianxin Cave, formed by fluorite rocks and rich in fluorites, could be illuminated by activating true spirit, creating a beautiful, star-like display. Ruochen compared it to a starry sky in the desert, prompting Zhang Yinyin to share her past as an orphan who wandered outside, nearly eaten by wolves until a kind boss saved her and taught her to read, write, and even "knock sheep."
She expressed her longing for them, to which Zhang Yinyin responded by reminding him that excelling in the Annual Exam would surely make them proud. Ruochen, charmed by her, attempted to kiss her, but Zhang Yinyin playfully diverted his attention, asking him to relay a message to Shui about the tofu crab roe soup and to ensure he and his friends would be there to meet her when she left the cave.
Meanwhile, Ruochen's master inquired about his recent cultivation progress. It was noted that Ruochen had become adept at navigating different sects, understanding the Zhenrens' temperaments, obtaining secret books, and acquiring many weapons, showing significant improvement. However, due to his initial low ability, there was much gossip, making it crucial for him to perform well in the Annual Exam.
On the day Zhang Yinyin was set to leave Tianxin Cave, Ruochen, having forgotten the arrangement, was reminded by Senior Qiushui and Senior Xuanzhen, who were already there. Just as they prepared to meet Zhang Yinyin, a disciple from Danyuan Palace arrived, requesting Ruochen's presence. Despite Ruochen's attempts to decline due to prior engagements, the disciple insisted, stating Yuxuan Zhenren had specifically sent them to fetch him.
Upon arriving at Danyuan Palace, Yuxuan Zhenren explained she wanted to teach Ruochen the "Eight Elements Manual," a crucial text for inner cultivation. She introduced her disciple, Hanyan, instructing her to study the manual with Ruochen and take him to the Sutra Pavilion. However, Hanyan led Ruochen to a secluded, isolated path instead of the pavilion. Ruochen, sensing something amiss, questioned her motives. Hanyan then feigned seeing a snake and stumbled, prompting Ruochen to catch her.
She clung to him, claiming intense pain, and confessed her feelings for him, saying she had "fallen for" him since they first met. As she embraced him, Hanyan suddenly screamed for help, tearing her clothes and accusing Ruochen of molestation when other Xixuan disciples appeared. Ruochen was brought before Ziyang Zhenren and the acting hierarch for questioning. Hanyan tearfully accused him, asserting he had taken her on a less-traveled road and molested her.
Still disoriented from a hallucinatory incense Hanyan had administered, Ruochen clarified that he had indeed chosen the secluded path because he was waiting to meet his beloved, who was not Hanyan. Just then, Zhang Yinyin burst in, wielding a duster and striking Ruochen and those around him, having heard rumors from Danyuan Palace disciples that Ruochen was "secretly dating Hanyan."
Ruochen explained he had been drugged, feeling very uncomfortable, and in his dazed state, he attempted to kiss her, much to Zhang Yinyin's strong reaction. Seeing the chaotic scene and Ruochen's clear disorientation, and perhaps sensing Hanyan's deceit, the acting hierarch decided to drop the matter, concluding it was simply "frivolous in love" among young people. Zhang Yinyin pulled Ruochen away from the scene. Still under the drug's influence, Ruochen expressed a desire to kiss her.
Zhang Yinyin noticed his flushed face, but he confessed his deep longing for her, saying she had appeared in his dreams every night since she brought him to Xixuan. As Zhang Yinyin resisted his advances, a figure in a black cloak with a disfigured face, later identified as the "faceless man," appeared and attacked Ruochen, taunting him for his clumsy escape despite being a banished god.
Zhang Yinyin helped Ruochen flee into a deep mountain stream where a colossal bronze tripod stood. Ruochen was inexplicably drawn into the tripod, experiencing immense pain as his true essence surged. Inside, he found himself in a void filled with martial arts manuals. Relying on his photographic memory from practicing the Shangqing Mantra, he diligently memorized the "Dissociation Mantra" and other techniques from the tripod walls, which significantly amplified his true spirit. After being rescued, Ruochen recovered in his quarters.
His master confirmed the identity of the attacker as his former junior, Shen Boyang, a martial arts prodigy who had gone off the deep end during cultivation due to the tragic death of his lover, Yu Chan. His master warned Ruochen that Shen Boyang's existence was a closely guarded secret of the Xixuan Sect and forbade him from speaking of it.
Zhang Yinyin, who had witnessed Ruochen's absorption into the tripod, marveled at his newfound power, lamenting her own struggles with her cultivation, burdened by the "Huanyao Root" and recurring headaches. Ruochen, in turn, offered to share his newly acquired power with her. Later, Taiwei Zhenren, the master of Taixuan Palace, expressed his skepticism about Ruochen being a true banished god, citing his seemingly ordinary progress compared to other ascended individuals in Xixuan's history.
He vowed that if Ruochen couldn't prove his strength in the upcoming Annual Exam, he would be deemed a fake, and the other Zhenrens would severely punish him. Subsequently, two Taixuan Palace disciples, Ming Xin and Ming Yun, confronted Ruochen, accusing him of being ungrateful for praising Xuanming Palace's moral swordsmanship while having sought their own Grand Five-Element Swordsmanship. Ruochen denied their claims and tried to leave, but they insisted on a spar.
As they attacked, a senior disciple from Xuanming Palace intervened, reminding Ming Xin and Ming Yun that they were on Xuanming Palace territory and that their master, Jingxiao Zhenren, had once been defeated by his own master, Taiwei Zhenren. Warned to leave, Ming Xin and Ming Yun departed, vowing revenge.
Ming Xin and Ming Yun then found Zhang Yinyin and falsely claimed that Ruochen had insulted Taixuan Palace, disparaged their Grand Five-Element Swordsmanship, and even mocked their master by saying Taiwei Zhenren had "beat the crap out of" him. Believing their fabrication, Zhang Yinyin furiously vowed to teach Ruochen a lesson, agreeing to a formal challenge suggested by Ming Xin. She set the duel for the hour of Mao (5 a. m. to 7 a. m.
) on Sword Forging Mountain. However, Ruochen, who was drinking with friends, forgot the appointment. As a heavy rain began, he suddenly noticed Zhang Yinyin's Sunlight and Rain Charm illuminating Sword Forging Mountain. Realizing she was there, and remembering their challenge, he rushed towards her. Meanwhile, Ming Xin and Ming Yun, seeking shelter from the rain, attempted to enter a seemingly ordinary cave on Sword Forging Mountain but were warned by a fellow disciple that it was a forbidden area.
Despite the warning, Zhang Yinyin, driven by curiosity, entered the cold, dark cave, ignoring the strange echoing chants of "With spotted nine tails, I jump over the Nanshan Mountain" and "When the Big Dipper appears above the Nanshan Mountain, the dead water ripples," disappearing deeper within.
Episode 4 Recap
Seeking shelter from a downpour, Zhang Yinyin and her disciples entered a cave, despite one disciple's reminder that the adjacent cave was a forbidden area. Hearing voices from within, Yinyin's curiosity was piqued, and she ventured into the forbidden cave to investigate. Inside, a woman in red robes named Su He was bound by powerful demon-suppressing chains. Cursing the Xixuan Sect, she struggled to break free. Upon seeing Yinyin, Su He recognized her and taunted her to come closer.
Yinyin was immediately entranced and fainted. Her disciple, Ji Xiao'er, was by her side when she awoke with a splitting headache, a recurring ailment. Su He laughed, revealing the headache was caused by a Huanyao Root she had given Yinyin twenty years prior. Yinyin recalled a childhood memory of a great demon luring her with a beautiful flower, after which her chronic headaches began.
Su He mocked her, stating this was retribution for the Hierarch's past actions against the demon clan and that soon, the fully grown root would turn Yinyin into a demon. Yinyin defiantly retorted that she would never become a demon. At that moment, Ji Ruochen arrived, swiftly attacked the distracted Su He, and ushered the dazed Yinyin and her disciple out of the cave.
Once outside, Ruochen gave Yinyin a bracelet he had fashioned from a piece of the demon-suppressing chain, hoping it would alleviate the demonic energy within her. He expressed regret for not realizing sooner that her headaches were caused by demon poison. Wearing the bracelet, Yinyin's pain subsided. Ruochen reassured her that even if she became a demon, she would always be his senior sister, and he would never abandon her, declaring that he belonged to her.
Soon after, the Hierarch appeared, chastising Yinyin for trespassing. Ruochen immediately took full responsibility, and seeing his sincerity, the Hierarch let her off with a warning. Elsewhere, a woman named Luo Xichen asked the Imperial Advisor to help find her brother, Luo Feng. The Advisor revealed Luo Feng was killed by a member of the Xixuan Sect.
He suggested that revenge was only possible with the help of a powerful prince, Li An of Haofang, and invited her to join his Zhenwu Temple on an upcoming trip to Haofang City. During the Xixuan Sect's annual exam, Ji Ruochen faced Zhao Qianli. Outmatched, Zhao Qianli used a treacherous weapon, the Deity Binding Rope, to attack Ruochen.
In response, Ruochen unleashed the Dissociation Immortal Technique, a power he had absorbed from the ancient King Wen's Mountains and Rivers Cauldron, turning the weapon against its owner. The Hierarch stopped the match and later explained to Ruochen that the cauldron was a sacred treasure of Xixuan. He acknowledged Ruochen's identity as a banished god but warned him not to use the powerful and conspicuous technique again to avoid provoking jealousy.
In a later match against Zhang Yinyin, Ruochen clearly held back, even using his own body to cushion her from a fall, ultimately allowing her to win. That night, Yinyin's mother confronted her for secretly treating Ruochen's injuries. She warned her daughter against pursuing a romance with a banished god, who is destined to ascend, emphasizing their different paths would only lead to heartbreak. Yinyin insisted she would remain close to Ruochen.
As her parents argued, her mother suddenly clutched her head in pain, claiming she had to hide before her "demon form" was revealed, and rushed inside, leaving her oblivious husband confused. Following the turmoil of the competition, the Hierarch spoke with another elder, expressing his intent to cancel the rest of the exam.
He feared Ruochen, with only a fraction of his power restored, was already too strong for the other disciples and that his presence would lead to more conflict. Meanwhile, resentful disciples confronted Ruochen, who effortlessly defeated them. Later, Ruochen confided in Sect Leader Xuxuan that he was biding his time in Qingxu, as he was not yet powerful enough to confront a "fake" who posed a threat.
Soon, visitors arrived from Yun Zhong Ju: the Chief of Jinshan and his two disciples, Gu Qing and Shi Ji. The Hierarch suspected ulterior motives, recalling a past rivalry. Gu Qing, a "female banished god," was breathtakingly beautiful. As she scanned the crowd, her gaze locked on a jade pendant around Ruochen's neck. Her heart raced as she recognized it as the one she had given to a patrol immortal long ago, wondering if Ruochen was the one she had been waiting for.
Episode 5 Recap
Gu Qing excitedly approached Ji Ruochen, mistaking him for Yinfeng, a person she believed she had known deeply for ninety-nine lifetimes. Ji Ruochen, a disciple of the Taichang Palace of Xixuan, was startled and asserted he had never met her before, which greatly surprised Gu Qing. Zhang Yinyin, another Xixuan disciple, quickly intervened, pulling Ji Ruochen behind her.
She aggressively mocked Gu Qing, calling her rude, a "wild girl" who "stole other people's efforts," and disparaged Yun Zhong Ju, suggesting their visit for a skill competition had devolved into a mere beauty contest. Gu Qing retaliated, asking if Zhang Yinyin's face still hurt and if she wanted another slap, hinting at a past physical confrontation. Zhang Yinyin then pressed Ji Ruochen, asking who was prettier, and he affirmed that Zhang Yinyin was the most beautiful.
Later that night, Gu Qing visited Ji Ruochen in his courtyard, claiming she was there to apologize and "catch up." She invited him to discuss the "secret of the bluestone," then directly asked if he truly didn't remember her, insisting that she had given him the bluestone pendant he wore. Ji Ruochen, startled, maintained she had mistaken him for someone else, claiming the stone was a gift from his mother and that countless similar stones existed.
Gu Qing was adamant, asserting the stone had a unique connection with her and that their destiny, witnessed by Heaven and Earth, and sealed by the bluestone, spanned ninety-nine lifetimes. She believed his memory loss was due to his divine consciousness not being fully open and vowed to help him regain his memories. Ji Ruochen, visibly frustrated, wished she would let go of the past.
Whispers began to spread among the disciples after Gu Qing's nocturnal visit to Ji Ruochen's courtyard, speculating that they were having a secret liaison. Zhang Yinyin, hearing the rumors, confronted Ji Ruochen, accusing him of being easily captivated by beautiful women and disregarding her feelings. She made him promise not to see Gu Qing again, vowing revenge against "that stone fairy." Zhang Yinyin, the eldest disciple of the Taixuan Palace, then publicly challenged Gu Qing.
Despite her challenge, Zhang Yinyin was no match for Gu Qing and was decisively defeated, regretting her decision. To save face, Zhang Yinyin decided to seek out a nine-tailed fox to learn demonic arts. Soon after, Gu Qing, also known as Shi Ji from Yun Zhong Ju, accepted another challenge. However, Shang Qiushui, a disciple from Xixuan's Sikong Palace and a friend of Zhang Yinyin, stepped forward to fight Gu Qing on behalf of his sect.
During the duel, Gu Qing decisively defeated Shang Qiushui, leading Zhang Yinyin to openly accuse Gu Qing of fighting dirty and being shameless for severely injuring her friend. After the confrontation, Gu Qing asked Ji Ruochen to speak with her privately. Alone with Ji Ruochen, Gu Qing continued to infuse spiritual power into the bluestone pendant he wore, hoping to restore his memories.
Ji Ruochen grew increasingly uncomfortable, pleading with her to let go of the past, as the stone felt scalding. Gu Qing then directly asked him if he liked Zhang Yinyin. Ji Ruochen affirmed that he did, stating it was common knowledge. Gu Qing then declared that despite his apparent feelings for Zhang Yinyin, she and Ji Ruochen were destined as a divine couple to return to the God Realm, urging him not to be swayed by mortal attachments.
However, Ji Ruochen firmly rejected her, stating that he and Zhang Yinyin were deeply in love and soulmates, destined to be together in this life, and he couldn't accept Gu Qing's affections. Before he could leave, Gu Qing challenged him to a duel in three days, claiming it was part of Yun Zhong Ju's purpose for visiting Xixuan. Ji Ruochen, knowing he was outmatched by her immortal power, reluctantly agreed, acknowledging it would be a clear defeat for him.
Meanwhile, in Haofang City, King Li An expressed his deep concern to the Imperial Advisor about the dark demon smoke emanating from the city's wells and the resulting public panic. The Imperial Advisor, asserting that the phenomena signaled the emergence of a demon, advised King Li An to recruit skilled individuals to eliminate the threat, assuring him it would both demonstrate his virtue and gain the Emperor's favor.
King Li An, feeling politically isolated as a prince far from the capital, sought the Imperial Advisor's support. The Imperial Advisor, asserting that King Li An's destiny lacked the "water" element and hinged upon a specific woman, then introduced a young woman named Luo Xichen. Luo Xichen subtly charmed King Li An, creating an immediate rapport.
Later, Luo Xichen reported to her own master that Haofang City was now under their control and that a demon carrying a crucial treasure would soon emerge from the city's waters. She instructed her master to use this opportunity to unite various sects, acknowledging that Xixuan Sect might prove challenging.
In another development, Yinfeng of Qingxu Sect, having regained his divine power but not yet his full memories, sought out the individual he believed was a fake banished immortal at Xixuan Sect, whom he had previously tried to kill. He confronted Ji Ruochen, accusing him of being an imposter and recalling a past incident where Ji Ruochen's magic was involved. Ji Ruochen denied the accusation, claiming Yinfeng had accidentally caused his own injury while trying to harm someone else.
As Yinfeng prepared to attack, Gu Qing intervened, shielding Ji Ruochen. She immediately recognized Yinfeng as "A Qing," the one she had searched for over ninety-nine lifetimes since their banishment from the God Realm. Yinfeng, despite recognizing Gu Qing as "Big Bluestone" and his beloved, was baffled by her protection of Ji Ruochen, the supposed imposter. He identified himself as Yinfeng from Qingxu Sect and Gu Qing as a fairy from Yun Zhong Ju.
Yinfeng attempted to insist on settling his private grievance with Ji Ruochen, but Gu Qing refused to back down, stating her long-standing commitment to "A Qing." Yinfeng, frustrated, departed, vowing revenge on Ji Ruochen. News of Gu Qing and Ji Ruochen's nocturnal meeting and their subsequent interactions, particularly their private rendezvous in the library, reached the masters of their respective sects. Ziyang, Ji Ruochen's master from Xixuan, met with Jin Shan, Gu Qing's master from Yun Zhong Ju.
Ziyang proposed a marriage between Gu Qing and Ji Ruochen, emphasizing their deep past connections and intertwined immortal fate as banished immortals. Initially, Jin Shan was outraged at the suggestion, especially upon learning Gu Qing had indeed trespassed into Xixuan's library. However, Gu Qing, when confronted by her master, surprisingly insisted that Jin Shan agree to the proposal, asserting her destined immortal connection with Ji Ruochen could not be stopped.
Later, Ji Ruochen's master, Ziyang, informed him that he had already arranged the marriage with Gu Qing. Ziyang revealed that Gu Qing was believed to be the "Bluestone Immortal" from the immortal realm, destined for Ji Ruochen as a banished immortal. He pressured Ji Ruochen to accept this divine fate, warning that Senior Ziwei had sacrificed centuries of cultivation to bring him to Xixuan as the banished immortal, and his refusal would jeopardize the entire sect's reputation and safety. Despite the severe warnings, Ji Ruochen defiantly refused, declaring he would marry no one but Zhang Yinyin.
Episode 6 Recap
Despite the Xixuan Sect Master's approval of the marriage between Ruochen and Gu Qing, Ruochen firmly rejected the union, insisting he would marry no one but Zhang Yinyin. His Master, taken aback, sent him to Taichang Palace for confinement, warning that if the Xixuan Sect were to fall, Zhang Yinyin would not be spared. Later, Zhang Yinyin challenged Gu Qing to a duel in the wilderness.
While Gu Qing believed the duel was over Ruochen, Zhang Yinyin claimed she only wanted to prove her superiority in combat despite her less noble background. Gu Qing urged Zhang Yinyin to let go, reminding her that her own immortal fate with Ruochen was predestined centuries ago. Zhang Yinyin countered that Ruochen was already hers by his own promise.
Although Gu Qing was reluctant to injure her, Zhang Yinyin refused to yield, declaring that being unable to defeat Gu Qing was more unbearable than death. After their inconclusive duel, Zhang Yinyin sought out Su He, the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox. Su He deduced Zhang Yinyin's motive was love. Aware that the Huanyao Root within her body was hindering her path to godhood, Zhang Yinyin asked to learn sorcery to compete with Gu Qing.
Su He warned that mastering the secret arts would inevitably transform her into a great demon, leading to persecution by all righteous sects. Undeterred, Zhang Yinyin declared she would become a demon if it meant she could defeat Gu Qing and protect the Xixuan Sect. Impressed by her resolve, Su He accepted her as a disciple, imparting a lesson: a woman who falls in love with a man has already lost everything.
Meanwhile, news arrived from Xu Zekai in Haofang about increasing demonic energy and the imminent emergence of the Bamboo Snake, a demon from the Dark Abyss. This demon carried the Shenzhou Energy Map, a treasure vital to the Xixuan Sect and the world's fate, which was certain to ignite conflict among the sects. Ruochen, hearing of this, requested to lead the mission to Haofang. His Master initially refused, citing that Ruochen's identity as a banished god made him a target.
Ruochen argued this was precisely why he must go, to prove his strength and bring glory to their sect. Supported by other masters, his Master relented, on the condition that Ruochen's marriage to Gu Qing would take place upon his triumphant return. Before departing, Ruochen tried to see Zhang Yinyin but was stopped by her mother. She told him to stay away, as his engagement to Gu Qing was already causing the strong-willed Yinyin great pain.
As Ruochen left, he privately resolved never to marry Gu Qing, while Zhang Yinyin's parents fretted over her disappearance and the potential activation of the demon poison in her system. Zhang Yinyin soon returned to her parents, who immediately detected a strong demonic aura around her. She confessed she had voluntarily sought out Su He to learn sorcery, believing it was her only way to contend with Gu Qing for Ruochen.
She pleaded to be allowed to go to Haofang to be with him. Her father forbade it, calling her a "silly girl" drawn like a moth to a flame, and tried to confine her. However, Zhang Yinyin skillfully evaded her parents and fled. In the wilderness, Ruochen encountered his Master, who explained that as the sect's destined figure, Ruochen was crucial to overcoming an impending tribulation.
The Master revealed that thousands of years ago, an overflow of Chaotic Energy allowed Nine Hells Demons to wreak havoc, and the Bamboo Snake's appearance signaled more disasters to come. He tasked Ruochen with retrieving the Shenzhou Energy Map it carried and bestowed upon him the Xuanxin ring, a powerful artifact capable of storing countless treasures. In Haofang City, the Prince organized a demon-eliminating assembly.
There, a woman named Xichen grew distressed upon hearing that a banished god from the Xixuan Sect would attend. She later tearfully told the Prince that this disciple, Ji Ruochen, was an impostor who had murdered her cousin, Luo Feng—the true banished god—and stolen his spirit stone.
Though hesitant to act against the Xixuan Sect, the Prince was swayed by the Imperial Advisor’s plan to use "Great Ancestor," a wicked figure the Xixuan Sect had helped imprison sixteen years prior, to assassinate Ruochen. Seeking rest at an inn, Ruochen quickly discerned it was a trap set by the Black Jade Gang. After feigning incapacitation from a sleeping potion, he easily subdued his attackers.
They confessed that Great Ancestor had ordered sixteen evil sects to ambush and kill him, even planning a "beauty trap." Realizing the main roads were filled with enemies, Ruochen decided to travel through the mountains. Meanwhile, at Yun Zhong Ju, Gu Qing's master suspected the Xixuan Sect's true motive was to seize the Shenzhou Energy Map. Overhearing this, Gu Qing insisted on going to Haofang to help Ruochen. After she knelt and refused to rise, her frustrated master consented.
As she journeyed, Yinfeng, who had been following her, created a magical barrier to shield her from the rain. Gu Qing warned him to stop, but he silently vowed to always protect her. Shortly after, unidentified pursuers in the same forest detected a powerful demonic aura and gave chase.
Episode 7 Recap
Venturing cautiously after a troubling encounter, Ji Ruochen roasted wild rabbit and fish to sustain himself. He soon discovered a small demon attempting to steal his food. After a swift move to apprehend her, he found her to be a quick-witted young demon who, despite holding his roasted rabbit meat, refused to admit her actions constituted theft, arguing that the wild provisions belonged to no one and even criticizing his cooking.
The young demon, covered in blood and with a broken arrow lodged in her leg, was soon caught up to by her pursuers. Ji Ruochen, wary of a potential honeytrap, initially kept his distance. However, seeing the pursuers bind her with a Deity Binding Rope and prepare to extract her Neidan with a dagger, he realized her plight was genuine, not a ruse of self-injury.
He intervened, fending off the disciples of Liuxian Hall with his Divine Thunder Flame Formation and forcing their retreat. Upon waking, the young demon was relieved that Ji Ruochen had not taken her Neidan, noting he had even used his King Wen's Mountains and Rivers Cauldron to refine healing pills for her, which she found surprisingly delicious. She recognized the cauldron, explaining that her uncle possessed a book of powerful artifacts.
Introducing herself as Qingyi, a green snake demon from Tianxing Mountain, she recounted her journey from her uncle's care, her struggles to conceal her demonic energy, and the constant pursuit by immortality cultivators. Ji Ruochen then removed the arrow from her leg. In an attempt to repay his kindness, Qingyi, misunderstanding the phrase "a drop of water shall be returned with a burst of spring," poured an entire spring of water over Ji Ruochen's head.
Meanwhile, Zong Ze, a Liuxian Hall disciple who had been injured by a Xixuan Sect disciple, suspected it was Ji Ruochen and sought vengeance. Great Ancestor, from Jinguang Cave, appeared, revealing he had been released from Haofang prison thanks to Ji Ruochen's actions. He declared his intention to assist them in killing Ji Ruochen, claiming to act on the Imperial Advisor's orders.
Great Ancestor tried to entice Li Zhiyao, a chief of Liuxian Hall, by mentioning the valuable artifacts Ji Ruochen possessed, especially the King Wen's Mountains and Rivers Cauldron, which he revealed was in Ji Ruochen's hands. Ji Ruochen was finally reunited with Zhang Yinyin, but their reunion was fraught with tension. Seeing Qingyi by his side, Zhang Yinyin initially accused him of being unfaithful.
Ji Ruochen attempted to explain that Qingyi was merely someone he had met on his journey and that he had tried to visit Zhang Yinyin at the Taixuan Palace before descending the mountain. Using her Heavenly Fox Secret Technique, Zhang Yinyin peered into his heart, discovering his unwavering affection and deep longing, confirmed by the many letters he had secretly written to her. Reassured, she embraced and kissed him.
Qingyi, observing their dramatic reconciliation, noted that Zhang Yinyin was a fox demon and remarked on the strange nature of mortals practicing demon arts. Despite her initial anger, Zhang Yinyin decided to allow Qingyi to accompany them. Ji Ruochen then revealed that their direct path to Haofang was blocked by the 16 evil sects, leaving the Netherworld Mountain as the only shortcut.
Qingyi was terrified, warning of the dangerous and powerful demons residing there, but Zhang Yinyin dismissed her fears, promising protection. Concurrently, Gu Qing's journey towards Haofang proceeded with unusual ease, hinting at unseen assistance. She realized Yinfeng was behind it. Despite her previous warnings not to follow, Yinfeng had been subtly clearing obstacles, arranging accommodations, and even forcing a boatman to delay his family's celebrations to ensure Gu Qing's passage to Shangli Town.
Gu Qing confronted him, reiterating that his efforts would not sway her. Their tense conversation was interrupted by an ambush from remnants of the Evil Jade Sect. Yinfeng courageously shielded Gu Qing, sustaining injuries from an Yifeng Bird and becoming trapped in a Deity Trapping Formation, which severely weakened his divine power. Gu Qing saved him from the water, provided him with a healing elixir, and then quietly departed while he recovered.
As Ji Ruochen, Zhang Yinyin, and Qingyi entered the Netherworld Mountain, Qingyi remained anxious about the dangers lurking within, a fear Ji Ruochen initially dismissed due to his overconfidence. Their arrival was detected by the Demon Emperor of the Netherworld, who, recognizing Zhang Yinyin’s distinct demonic energy, dispatched his generals, Chaoxi and Jihou, to eliminate the Xixuan Sect disciples but bring the girl back unharmed.
Confronted by the generals, Ji Ruochen discovered that cultivators' powers were severely diminished within the Netherworld. Zhang Yinyin attempted to use her Heavenly Fox Secret Technique, but its power was greatly reduced. Qingyi, in a desperate move, activated a bell on her wrist, emitting a clear, melodious sound that caused intense headaches and disorientation among the demons, including Zhang Yinyin.
Ji Ruochen seized the opportunity to escape with Zhang Yinyin, urged by Qingyi to flee as she struggled to maintain the effect of her bell. Chaoxi and Jihou, recovering from the ringing, continued their pursuit. Shortly after, Great Ancestor and Li Zhiyao arrived, having also pursued Ji Ruochen into the Netherworld. Great Ancestor, citing the Netherworld's historical animosity towards the Xixuan Sect, attempted to forge an alliance with Chaoxi and Jihou against Ji Ruochen.
However, the demon generals proudly asserted that the Netherworld handled its own enemies and ordered them to leave. Great Ancestor then accused Li Zhiyao of a sinister plot to "borrow corpses to absorb souls" by inviting them into the mountain, a charge Li Zhiyao vehemently denied. Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin managed to escape the Netherworld. Once safe, Ji Ruochen confronted Zhang Yinyin about her decision to practice monster arts and take the Heavenly Fox as her master.
He expressed deep concern that prolonged practice would lead to complete demonization, making her future path incredibly arduous. Zhang Yinyin confessed her desire to defeat Gu Qing and expressed a fear that Ji Ruochen might despise her for being a demon, unlike the noble fairy Gu Qing. Ji Ruochen reassured her, expressing only profound care and love, vowing to marry no one but her.
To reaffirm his sincerity, he presented her with a Demon Subduing Stone bracelet, explaining that looking at it would calm his anger whenever she upset him. Just then, Qingyi emerged, apparently safe, as another unknown party approached, questioning their identities.
Episode 8 Recap
During a confrontation, Ji Ruochen swiftly defeated the Great Ancestor, leaving onlookers stunned by his prowess. As the battle concluded, a man from the Endless Sea appeared, revealing Qingyi's true identity as "my lady" and affirming that her uncle was the Master of the Endless Sea and the head of all monsters in Xuanhuang. Qingyi, who had secretly run away, pleaded with Zhang Yinyin and Ji Ruochen not to make her return.
Zhang Yinyin, sensing Qingyi's reluctance, used a spell to create a diversion, allowing her, Qingyi, and Ji Ruochen to escape from the Endless Sea's forces and head towards Haofang City. Meanwhile, in a separate stronghold, a powerful demon lord was enraged upon learning that his beloved generals, Chaoxi and Jihou, had been killed by disciples of the Xixuan Sect, evidenced by the Grand Five-Element Sword Formation scars on their bodies.
He immediately ordered the withdrawal of the enchantment boundary at the Xiaohun Valley entrance, prioritizing revenge against the Xixuan Sect, even if it meant sacrificing others, including Qingyi, to achieve his goals. Concurrently, in Haofang City, the Imperial Advisor informed the King of Haofang that Ji Ruochen, whom they believed was dead, had arrived outside the city walls, and that the Great Ancestor had indeed perished.
The King, concerned about Ji Ruochen seeking revenge, was reassured by the Imperial Advisor that Ji Ruochen would not suspect them. The Imperial Advisor then suggested they use Ji Ruochen to eliminate the demons, and then deal with Ji Ruochen himself. Elsewhere, Gu Qing was approached by Yinfeng, who had recovered from an arrow wound, thanks to pills she had given him.
He expressed his intention to stay by her side, but she politely stated that he had repaid his kindness and did not need to keep helping her. Yinfeng countered that his Qingxu Sect was also searching for the demon and that their meeting was merely a coincidence. Soon after, Gu Qing encountered a demon in the Hao River and swiftly saved a civilian. She had previously noticed demonic energy lingering in the area and realized the gravity of the situation.
Suspecting the demonic energy was drifting downstream, she resolved to head to Haofang City immediately to inform everyone. Yinfeng, still caring for her, offered her more of his self-made medicine for her wound before she departed. As Ji Ruochen, Zhang Yinyin, and Qingyi arrived in Haofang City, they were greeted by Xu Zekai, a junior fellow disciple from their sect.
Xu Zekai informed them that the King of Haofang had organized a banquet and Demon-Exorcising Assembly to discuss the impending emergence of the Bamboo Snake. At the banquet, Ji Ruochen was introduced to various powerful figures, including Priest Dragon Elephant and Priest White Tiger from Mount Xingyun, who immediately lavished him with flattery, recognizing him as the "Exiled Immortal."
Zhang Yinyin openly scoffed at their sycophancy, leading to a tense exchange with other sect leaders like Liu Yechuan of Zhenwu Temple, Lord Daluo and Lord Daran of Luoran Sect, and Master Huihai. The King of Haofang welcomed Ji Ruochen, expressing his immense fortune at meeting the "Exiled Immortal." Ji Ruochen proposed a strategy to prevent the Bamboo Snake from emerging by locating its underground lair and setting up a sealing formation before it was fully prepared.
Gu Qing of Yunzhong Residence then arrived, suggesting the Bamboo Snake's lair was in the Hao River, given the demonic energy she observed downstream. She further offered a sealing formation from her sect, which could trap the demon. Amidst the general approval and whispers of Ji Ruochen and Gu Qing being a "perfect match" with a "hundred-life predestination," the King appointed Ji Ruochen as the Vanguard to lead the demon-slaying efforts.
Following the assembly, Zhang Yinyin, visibly annoyed, expressed her frustration to Qingyi about the situation and Gu Qing's apparent closeness to Ji Ruochen. Gu Qing approached them, accusing Zhang Yinyin of practicing Monster's Art because of the Demon Subduing Stone she wore as a bracelet. Zhang Yinyin retorted that it was a token from a shared life-or-death experience with Ji Ruochen in an underground palace.
Qingyi stepped in, defending Zhang Yinyin by citing ancient texts that stated all beings with nine senses could cultivate to immortality, questioning why Monster's Art should be deemed unorthodox. Gu Qing, undeterred, simply reaffirmed her "hundred-life predestination" with Ji Ruochen. Xu Zekai intervened before a fight could break out, and Ji Ruochen arrived, stressing the importance of prioritizing the mission to find the Bamboo Snake's lair over personal disputes.
He outlined a plan to divide into groups and search the Hao River and its tributaries, as well as the eastern and western parts of Haofang City, where demonic energy had been detected. Zhang Yinyin suggested she and Ji Ruochen team up, while Gu Qing tried to persuade Ji Ruochen to join her, offering to teach him the sealing formation.
However, Priest Dragon Elephant and Priest White Tiger interjected, asking Ji Ruochen to accompany them to search outside the East Gate, to which Ji Ruochen agreed. Later that night, the Imperial Advisor met with Li Zhiyao from Liuxian Hall, who confirmed his earlier report that both Zhang Yinyin and Qingyi were female monsters, having witnessed Zhang Yinyin use Monster's Art and Qingyi summon monster generals on Netherworld Mountain, leading to the Great Ancestor's demise.
The Imperial Advisor, pleased, declared his intention to use the pretense of capturing demons to stir up trouble, thus distracting Ji Ruochen by forcing him to rescue his "confidantes," and ensuring the Bamboo Snake's emergence so he could seize its accompanying treasures. Meanwhile, Zhang Yinyin, having drunk too much, was being supported by Ji Ruochen.
In a state of emotional vulnerability, she confessed her feelings of inadequacy, crying that she couldn't help him like Gu Qing could, and expressing her fear that he would eventually leave her for Gu Qing, as others deemed them a "perfect match." Ji Ruochen comforted her, assuring her that she was the only one in his heart.
He silently resolved that he would confess his true identity as "Clerk Ji" and not the "Exiled Immortal" to her when the time was right, hoping she wouldn't resent him for the long wait and deception. Afterward, Ji Ruochen encountered Gu Qing, still awake. She apologized for her earlier "frivolous" behavior, and he offered her hangover medicine. They discussed the Bamboo Snake's treasures; Ji Ruochen stated his priority was the lives of Haofang's people over any treasure.
Gu Qing wholeheartedly pledged her support, acknowledging that this path would invite opposition from treasure seekers. As Ji Ruochen left, Gu Qing looked on, quietly vowing that one day, she would make him remember her. The search for the Bamboo Snake's lair continued. Zhang Yinyin and Qingyi were assigned to the East City.
Qingyi, observing Zhang Yinyin, mused about the nature of love and questioned Zhang Yinyin about Gu Qing's apparent affection for Ji Ruochen, recalling how others spoke of their "predestined connection" at the Tingsong Building. Zhang Yinyin dismissed these notions as nonsense. Simultaneously, Ji Ruochen was searching with Priest Dragon Elephant and Priest White Tiger. The two priests, instead of assisting, repeatedly questioned Ji Ruochen about his preference for Zhang Yinyin over Gu Qing.
Their conversation was cut short when a demon appeared, and the priests, revealed to be utterly useless and without their magical weapons, panicked and fled, leaving Ji Ruochen to face the creature alone. The Imperial Advisor's plot to frame Zhang Yinyin and Qingyi escalated.
Master Huihai and other sect leaders, having been informed by Gu Qing at the Tingsong Building that Zhang Yinyin and Qingyi were female monsters who had admitted to it, were convinced that Zhang Yinyin was using Monster's Art to bewitch Ji Ruochen to gain access to the Bamboo Snake's treasures. They decided to "eliminate" the "female monster" to "free" Ji Ruochen.
The Imperial Advisor, upon hearing that the two "female monsters" had entered through the East Gate, dispatched the sect leaders to pursue them. Xu Zekai, realizing the dangerous scheme, resolved to warn Ji Ruochen. The sect leaders soon located Zhang Yinyin and Qingyi, who had found a spot with strong demonic energy, likely the Bamboo Snake's lair. Qingyi, sensing their pursuers, became frightened, but Zhang Yinyin reassured her, telling her to run. During the chase, a follower of the King of Haofang, Ji Tianxia, recognized Zhang Yinyin and skillfully helped her and Qingyi escape the pursuing cultivators, allowing them to evade capture.
Episode 9 Recap
Zhang Yinyin and Qingyi were having tea in Hui Garden, a place reserved for the King of Haofang's honored guests, when they were suddenly accosted by Master Huihai and his demon-catching companions. The monks immediately accused Zhang Yinyin and Qingyi of being monsters and bound them with demon-restraining ropes. Ji Ruochen rushed to their aid, desperately trying to cut the seemingly unbreakable chains.
Just as his efforts proved futile, Zhang Yinyin's mother, Jingxiao Zhenren, arrived and skillfully severed the ropes, freeing them. Zhang Yinyin, overjoyed, embraced her mother. However, Jingxiao Zhenren immediately slapped Zhang Yinyin, scolding her for her recklessness in leaving Xixuan Mountains without permission. She confronted Ji Ruochen, reminding him that Senior Ziyang had instructed him to marry Fairy Gu upon his triumphant return, and accusing him of not having immediately refused.
Jingxiao Zhenren expressed her deep concern for her only daughter, fearing Zhang Yinyin would suffer heartbreak if she continued to be involved with Ji Ruochen's "mortal destiny" when he was destined for a "divine destiny." She implored Ji Ruochen to let go of Zhang Yinyin if he could not sever his divine ties. Ji Ruochen promised Jingxiao Zhenren that he would never betray Zhang Yinyin and would protect her.
Jingxiao Zhenren then warned him that if he were to ever harm Zhang Yinyin, she would disregard their master-disciple bond. Following this confrontation, Zhang Yinyin deliberately kept her distance from Ji Ruochen. Ji Ruochen, noticing her continued unhappiness, decided to reveal a secret he had hidden, acknowledging her anger and believing it was time to simplify things given the threat of a major demon.
Ji Ruochen confessed that he was not a banished god but a fake, having concealed his true identity to enter Xixuan Sect and reunite with Zhang Yinyin, fearing ridicule for both of them if the truth came out. To his surprise, Zhang Yinyin was thrilled by this revelation, caring nothing for the "banished god" status.
She mused that if he were fake, then Fairy Gu's "fated destiny" must be a mistake, and she eagerly wished to inform Fairy Gu immediately to deter her from pestering Ji Ruochen further. Yet, for the sake of the greater good, Zhang Yinyin decided to wait for a more opportune moment. That night, Zhang Yinyin fell asleep beside Ji Ruochen, their reconciliation marked by a renewed warmth and two rosy blush spots on her cheeks.
Days later, Zhang Yinyin and Ji Ruochen inadvertently stumbled into the lair of the Hoang Snake. They fought valiantly, joined by Jingxiao Zhenren, but the demon's power was overwhelming. Ji Ruochen managed to seize a treasure from the Hoang Snake's head, only for the Imperial Advisor to quickly snatch it away. In the ensuing chaos, to protect Zhang Yinyin, Ji Ruochen was swallowed whole by the monstrous Hoang Snake.
Zhang Yinyin cried out, desperate to rush to Ji Ruochen's rescue, but her mother held her back, emphasizing that in such a critical situation, they could only save one person at a time. Trapped within the Hoang Snake's blood-red insides, Ji Ruochen felt his true essence rapidly dissipating. He recalled the "Dreadstar Fate-Infusion Technique," a forbidden art he had previously avoided due to its nefarious nature and the risk of shortening one's lifespan or even dissolving one's soul.
With no other option, Ji Ruochen activated the perilous technique, and, empowered by its dark energies, burst forth from the Hoang Snake's abdomen. Upon seeing Ji Ruochen emerge unharmed, Zhang Yinyin joyfully embraced him. His power significantly amplified by the forbidden technique, Ji Ruochen brutally defeated the Hoang Snake, staining the Hao River crimson with its blood.
As soon as the great demon was vanquished, numerous sect disciples, including Master Huihai and Sun Guo, appeared, demanding the Shenzhou Energy Map from Ji Ruochen. Jingxiao Zhenren was enraged, vehemently condemning the sects for their opportunism. She pointed out that none of them had offered aid when Ji Ruochen was in peril, yet now they brazenly appeared to claim the spoils, abandoning all righteousness.
She reiterated that the treasure had been stolen by the Imperial Advisor, but they refused to believe her. Sun Guo brazenly accused Ji Ruochen of being a fake banished god and a hypocrite, further stating that Xixuan Sect had also gone astray by fabricating a banished god. Jingxiao Zhenren rebutted these accusations, stating that Ji Ruochen possessed the bluestone token and that his identity had been verified by Xixuan Sect elders, not allowing them to distort the facts.
She then ordered Ji Ruochen to flee with Zhang Yinyin to find the treasure, while she and others held off the avaricious sects. Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin fled, following the directions of an Eight-Trigram Map. Zhang Yinyin's mother had signaled for reinforcements, but urged them to prioritize the treasure.
During their escape, Zhang Yinyin's companion raised doubts about Ji Ruochen's true identity, now that it was also being publicly questioned by their accusers, and even suggested exposing him if he admitted to it. However, Zhang Yinyin firmly affirmed her unwavering trust in Ji Ruochen. The Eight-Trigram Map, though indicating the treasure's general direction, provided no specific trace. Just as they pondered their next move, a mysterious inn seemingly materialized out of nowhere, prompting them to investigate.
Episode 10 Recap
Ruochen, accompanied by Zhang Yinyin, sought a lost treasure, finding themselves in a desolate, foggy area where an inn mysteriously appeared behind them. Despite its empty appearance, they cautiously entered. Zhang Yinyin called out for the boss and for "Jinhua," but no one appeared. Soon, they were both ambushed and knocked unconscious. Huaniang and Lao Zhang, emerging from the shadows, initially mistook them for profitable customers. However, upon closer inspection, they realized the unconscious man was their own "brat," Ruochen.
Hastily, they roused him. Ruochen expressed his relief at seeing them, having worried they were dead. Huaniang, though teasing him for asking about Zhang Yinyin first, offered him tea and assured him Zhang Yinyin would soon recover with an antidote. Ruochen then recounted his recent successes, including being taken as a disciple by Ziwei Zhenren of the Xixuan Sect and being conferred the title of Vanguard Exorcist by the King of Haofang.
He attributed his rise to a stone Huaniang had given him, which led the Xixuan Sect to mistake him for a banished god, forcing him to continue the pretense. Lao Zhang revealed that Ruochen's success was no accident; they had snatched the stone from the original banished god, Yinfeng, whom they deemed useless as he couldn't even protect a mere stone. Ruochen was shocked to realize they had intentionally killed Yinfeng to put him on the path of cultivation.
Huaniang and Lao Zhang confirmed they were the infamous Duo Demons, the most powerful among the 13 demons from the Nine Hells. They confessed to intentionally killing the banished god, hoping Ruochen would replace him as the "fated one" capable of ending the chaos in the Three Realms, a goal they pursued after their own son died in the Land of the Underworld.
Ruochen also learned that the powerful "knock sheep" technique they taught him was far more potent than he imagined, contributing to his guilt over Yinfeng's demise. However, they were unconcerned that Yinfeng was not truly dead, confident that Ruochen, having been raised by them, would fulfill their expectations. As Zhang Yinyin regained consciousness, Huaniang gave Ruochen an item, instructing him not to ask what it was and to open it only when the time was right.
Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin then bid farewell to Huaniang and Lao Zhang. Outside the inn's barrier, many sect disciples were still engaged in conflict, attempting to seize a treasure from Zhang Yinyin's mother, a struggle during which Zhang Yinyin's father had sacrificed his life. Ruochen and his allies found themselves under attack and decided to use the Sky Meteor Formation to buy time for reinforcements.
Yinfeng, who had joined the Qingxu Sect, arrived, declaring himself the true banished god and exposing Ji Ruochen as a fraud. Gu Qing vehemently defended Ruochen, asserting that he had already defeated the demon Bamboo Snake, unlike Yinfeng who seemed only interested in fame. She urged Ruochen, who was already injured from fighting the demon, to rest. However, Ruochen insisted on handling Yinfeng himself, sending Zhang Yinyin to wait for him across the Haoshui River.
Yinfeng accused Ruochen of owing him a life and demanded retribution. Ruochen tried to explain he hadn't intended to kill him, believing Huaniang was simply greedy, and found himself trapped in the deception after joining the Xixuan Sect, feeling immense guilt. Yinfeng, however, was unmoved, declaring he would not tolerate Ruochen deceiving Gu Qing and that Ruochen must die. As their battle commenced, Zhang Yinyin bravely intervened to protect Ruochen, unleashing Dragon Elephant, White Tiger, and the Universal Cannon.
During the intense confrontation, Gu Qing questioned Yinfeng's intent to harm Ruochen, reminding Yinfeng that it was Ruochen who had been witnessed by heaven and earth, and by the bluestone, as the banished god. Yinfeng insisted he was the true banished god and the one who had made a pact with her to return to the God Realm.
Gu Qing, however, believed that despite any past misunderstandings, given the precarious state of the Three Realms, Ruochen was the fated one capable of bearing the heavy responsibility, and she resolved to stand by him, attempting to protect him from Yinfeng's wrath. Just as Ruochen was on the defensive against Yinfeng, Xuxuan, the Hierarch of the Qingxu Sect, launched a surprise attack with a poisonous sword, further injuring Ruochen with his Dreadstar Fate-Infusion Technique.
Critically wounded, Ruochen lay dying, mistaking Gu Qing for Zhang Yinyin and expressing his deep affection, lamenting that he might not fulfill his promises. Gu Qing, witnessing his selfless fight for the common people, resolved to save him. Despite her senior's warnings that sacrificing her immortal dharma-laksana would strip her of her immortality and destroy her millennia of cultivation, Gu Qing declared that Ruochen's life was more important than her return to the immortal realm.
Believing it was fate for her to help him rebuild his divine soul, she willingly sacrificed her immortal form, becoming a mortal. Days later, Ruochen awoke in the Xixuan Mountains, tended to by Qiushui and other disciples. He learned he had been comatose for three days and immediately asked about Zhang Yinyin and the situation in Haofang City.
He was relieved to hear the city was safe but distressed that Sun Guo had escaped and that Zhang Yinyin, injured by Yinfeng at Haoshui River, had been taken to the Endless Sea by Qingyi. Despite his own severe condition, marked by the descent of an inauspicious star upon his fate, Ruochen insisted on retrieving Zhang Yinyin, worried about her safety.
Upon his awakening, a disciple named Shi Ji entered and sternly chastised Ruochen for his apparent callousness, stating that while he gained fame from the Haofang battle, Gu Qing had sacrificed her immortal dharma-laksana to save his life, rendering her a mortal unable to return to the God Realm. Shortly after, Gu Qing herself entered, gently inquiring about his health. Ruochen, filled with remorse, apologized for having deceived her from their first meeting, confessing he was merely an imposter.
Gu Qing dismissed his past deception as irrelevant, stating that it no longer mattered who he truly was, and asked him to stay with her in the mortal world. Ruochen, kneeling in gratitude, acknowledged her immense kindness but humbly declined, explaining he had an existing commitment that prevented him from fulfilling her wish. Gu Qing, though disappointed, accepted his decision, wondering if their outcome would have been different had they met first.
Meanwhile, Zhang Yinyin, who had been severely injured, awakened in the Endless Sea. Ling, a caretaker there, brought her medicine, but Zhang Yinyin refused it, her primary concern being Ruochen's whereabouts. Ling informed her that Ruochen had returned to the Xixuan Mountains. Zhang Yinyin, grateful for the life-saving help from Ling's master (who was also Ling's uncle and the owner of the Endless Sea), requested a boat to travel to the Xixuan Mountains and reunite with Ruochen.
She confidently told Ling that if he ever visited the Xixuan Mountains, he could simply mention her name, Zhang Yinyin, the eldest disciple of Taixuan Palace, and she would protect him.
Episode 11 Recap
Zhang Yinyin, after sailing for an extended period, finally spotted a small island. She disembarked and approached a figure playing Go, asking for a bowl of water to quench her thirst. The Go player, who remained still, simply asked if she would play a game with him. Zhang Yinyin, in a hurry, had no desire for a game and was about to leave when she saw Ling serving water to the Go player, whom she then recognized as Mr. Wu.
Realizing she had returned to the Endless Sea despite her efforts, Zhang Yinyin became enraged and attempted to overturn the Go board, only to find it incredibly sturdy and unyielding. Mr. Wu, the master of all monsters, recognized Zhang Yinyin as Su He's disciple, the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox. He claimed that Qingyi, due to her involvement in the Haofang affairs because of Zhang Yinyin, had disturbed her mind and was now undergoing re-cultivation, leaving him without a companion for Go.
He suggested Zhang Yinyin take Qingyi's place. Zhang Yinyin, proud to be the chief disciple of Taixuan Palace, vehemently refused, but Mr. Wu dismissed her status, even insulting Ziwei, the hierarch of the Xixuan Sect. Zhang Yinyin, in turn, reprimanded him for insulting her sect's hierarch. Mr. Wu, recalling Su He, remarked that even after a thousand years, he couldn't escape their connection.
However, he refused to release Zhang Yinyin, fearing she would inform her master and incite more trouble, thus keeping her confined to the Endless Sea. Meanwhile, Xichen encountered a man she believed to be Luo Feng and called out to him. The man, now known as Yinfeng, informed her that the Luo Feng she knew had died and that he, as a banished god, was destined to return to the God Realm. He urged her to forget their shared past.
A distraught Xichen reminded him of their former affections, to which Yinfeng responded by giving her a volume of the Book of Heaven's immortal techniques, declaring that he had repaid all he owed her, and their ties were severed. Later, Xichen's master, Jin Shan, chastised her for sacrificing her immortal dharma-laksana for Ji Ruochen, accusing Ziwei of manipulating the situation.
Jin Shan then confronted Ziwei about the status of the engagement between Gu Qing and Ji Ruochen after Gu Qing's sacrifice. Ziwei, seeking to strengthen the Xixuan Sect's position amidst looming challenges, proposed that Ji Ruochen marry Gu Qing to repay her life-saving kindness. Jin Shan agreed, but demanded a grand wedding that would invite all sects, firmly stating that Xixuan was begging for this union. Ji Ruochen prepared to venture into the Endless Sea to bring Zhang Yinyin back.
Before his departure, he was stopped by two fellow disciples who informed him that his master had ordered him to rest due to injuries from the Haofang incident, assigning them to his service, effectively preventing his journey. Later, during a meeting with Ziwei, Ji Ruochen confessed to losing the Shenzhou Energy Map during the Haofang incident.
Ziwei revealed that the map was, in fact, the Xuanxin Ring given to Ji Ruochen by Huaniang by the Hao River, and that its spiritual energy had been obscured. Ziwei explained this artifact was a spiritual cave and acknowledged Ji Ruochen's rare ability to sense its unrefined spiritual flow.
Ziwei then disclosed his long-standing knowledge that Ji Ruochen was not the true banished god, but urged him to remain and help Xixuan navigate its impending difficulties, as the sect's foundation relied on him. As night fell on the island, Zhang Yinyin sat alone, her heart heavy with longing for Ji Ruochen, Xuanzhen, and her parents. She asked Ling if he had someone he liked.
Ling, a spirit crafted by Mr. Wu, explained that he lacked emotions, did not require sleep or sustenance, and only held affection for his master, expressing confusion at Zhang Yinyin's pain over a loved one. Soon after, her two companions, Long Xiang and Bai Hu, appeared, having accidentally caused an explosion in Mr. Wu's warehouse while working on their Universal Cannon.
They informed Zhang Yinyin that Qingyi had offended Mr. Wu during her visit to Haofang and had been imprisoned in the Ice Prison. There, Qingyi was said to endure intense suffering, purifying her heart with blood and performing painful cultivation to sever her ties to the mortal world, a choice she had made willingly. Infuriated by this revelation, Zhang Yinyin resolved to intervene. Zhang Yinyin declared her intention to confront Mr. Wu.
If she won, she demanded the release of herself, Long Xiang, Bai Hu, and Qingyi. Zhang Yinyin asserted that Mr. Wu was confined to his tree and instructed Long Xiang and Bai Hu to aim their Universal Cannon at him. However, they, frightened of Mr. Wu's power and their prior actions in blowing up his warehouse, fled with the cannon.
Mr. Wu, finding the increased activity on his island amusing, rejected her terms, stating that in the Endless Sea, he was the sole authority. Zhang Yinyin countered that his rules would change with her presence and, undeterred, pulled out her sword, aiming to split his mask. Effortlessly, Mr. Wu defeated her, remarking that she had only learned the superficial aspects of her Heavenly Fox secret technique, and banished her to the Ice Prison.
Zhang Yinyin plummeted into a cavern within the Ice Prison and was surprised to hear Qingyi conversing with what sounded like Ji Ruochen. Rushing forward, she discovered Qingyi was merely interacting with a wooden puppet resembling Ji Ruochen. Qingyi, delighted by Zhang Yinyin's arrival, excitedly asked her to demonstrate how to kiss, claiming she also wished to experience kissing "Ji Ruochen."
Incensed by Qingyi's playful demeanor despite her supposed suffering, Zhang Yinyin confronted her, leading to a squabble over the puppet. Qingyi argued that she had the right to make her own "Ji Ruochen," as Zhang Yinyin had hers. She explained that having grown up in isolation within the Endless Sea, she lacked understanding of emotions. Ling, called to mediate, sided with Zhang Yinyin, clarifying that Ji Ruochen was Zhang Yinyin's beloved and could not be shared. Witnessing the disruption Zhang Yinyin caused among his inhabitants, Mr. Wu, after a moment of consideration, decided to expel her from the Endless Sea to restore peace to his island.
Episode 12 Recap
Ji Ruochen is surprised to learn that Master Ziyang already knows he is not the true banished god, having long seen through his attempts to conceal it. Master Ziyang reveals that a catastrophic calamity will soon befall the Three Realms, and Ji Ruochen is the only one destined to save them.
He explains that Ji Ruochen's assumed identity as a banished god is crucial for the safety of the Three Realms and the foundation of the Xixuan Sect, emphasizing that this secret must be kept. Ji Ruochen initially protests, citing his mortal nature and a fate that shortens his lifetime, expressing his fear of such a heavy responsibility.
He suggests Yinfeng as the true banished god and Gu Qing's fated partner, asking Master Ziyang to withdraw the decision to marry him to Gu Qing, especially since he has privately pledged himself to Zhang Yinyin. Master Ziyang dismisses Yinfeng as unfit due to his lack of empathy for the people, stating that Ji Ruochen must accept his destiny for the sake of the Three Realms and the Xixuan Sect, regardless of his personal feelings.
He tells Ji Ruochen that the wedding day with Gu Qing is set and cannot be changed, as Elder Jinshan and Fairy Gu Qing have already agreed. When Ji Ruochen reiterates his commitment to Zhang Yinyin, stating he won't marry anyone else, Master Ziyang insists that Zhang Yinyin would understand the situation. Seeing Ji Ruochen's unwavering refusal, Master Ziyang finally asks him to meet someone before making his final decision.
Master Ziyang then brings Ji Ruochen to the bedside of Jingxiao Zhenren, who is gravely ill and mostly petrified. Zhang Yinyin's mother is also present, pleading with Ji Ruochen. She explains that Jingxiao Zhenren risked his life to save Ji Ruochen from poison, resulting in his current petrified state. Master Ziyang further reveals that the only way to cure Jingxiao Zhenren is through the Secret Arts of Yun Zhong Ju, which Elder Jinshan, the leader of Yun Zhong Ju, possesses.
However, Elder Jinshan demands that Ji Ruochen marry Fairy Gu Qing in exchange for his help, thus uniting their two sects. Master Ziyang presses Ji Ruochen, reminding him that Gu Qing sacrificed her immortal dharma-laksana, losing her chance to return to the God realm, all to save him.
Ji Ruochen is torn, acknowledging his debt to Gu Qing but refusing to betray Zhang Yinyin, stating he would not marry anyone else and that such a marriage would hurt Gu Qing even more. Master Ziyang emphasizes the critical state of the Xixuan Sect, which has many enemies and needs the alliance with Yun Zhong Ju, and warns that Ji Ruochen's fake banished god identity could be exposed, leading to ruin for the sect and the Three Realms.
Zhang Yinyin's mother then tearfully appeals to Ji Ruochen, reminding him that Jingxiao Zhenren's sacrifice was for him and that Zhang Yinyin would be devastated if her father died due to Ji Ruochen's refusal. Faced with these desperate pleas, Ji Ruochen reluctantly agrees. Before the wedding, as decorations are being set up around Xixuan Sect, Gu Qing confronts Ji Ruochen.
She expresses surprise that he agreed to the marriage and asks if it was truly his decision, giving him an opportunity to back out. Ji Ruochen, hiding his true feelings, simply states that he also agreed to it, making it seem as if he chose this.
Gu Qing, seemingly relieved, then makes him promise not to go back on his word, declaring that they are now a couple who will live and die together, and she expects him not to let her down. News of Ji Ruochen's upcoming marriage to Gu Qing at Xixuan Sect spreads. Yinfeng, having lost half of his magical prowess, learns about it and is enraged, blaming Ji Ruochen, whom he still considers a fake banished god, for stealing his fated partner.
He vows to take Gu Qing back to Qingxu to seek Tao together and help her regain her immortal dharma-laksana. Meanwhile, Zhang Yinyin, along with Qingyi, travels towards Xixuan, excited to reunite with Ji Ruochen. While at a market, they overhear two cultivators discussing a wedding at Xixuan, where the "banished god" is marrying a mortal.
Zhang Yinyin immediately assumes she is the bride, misinterpreting the news as Ji Ruochen secretly preparing a grand surprise wedding for her, recalling his promise to marry her gloriously if they survived their last ordeal. Filled with anticipation, she urges Qingyi to hurry. On the wedding day, Ji Ruochen is confined to a room, unwilling to face the ceremony.
Xuanzhen, another disciple, tries to coax him out, scolding him for hiding and for being an "unfaithful man" who would only make Zhang Yinyin sad. Gu Qing, radiant in her wedding attire, proceeds with the ceremony. Just as the auspicious hour arrives, Zhang Yinyin and Qingyi reach Xixuan. A Yunzhong Sect guard attempts to bar their entry, informing Zhang Yinyin that the wedding is between Ji Ruochen and Gu Qing.
Zhang Yinyin, refusing to believe it, asserts that she is the bride and that Ji Ruochen would never marry anyone else. Devastated, she forcefully pushes past the guards to enter the main hall. She reveals her five-tailed fox spirit form, slashing through the red wedding drapes, declaring she will cut off all destiny. The wedding guests are shocked, identifying her as a five-tailed fox spirit and demanding her capture.
However, several Xixuan disciples protest, reminding the Hierarch that Zhang Yinyin is their senior and should not be treated as an enemy. Zhang Yinyin confronts Ji Ruochen, demanding an explanation for his betrayal, recalling his promise to marry her. Gu Qing interjects, accusing Zhang Yinyin of disrupting her wedding day and pressuring Ji Ruochen. Gu Qing asserts that her marriage to Ji Ruochen is fixed and unchangeable.
In response, Zhang Yinyin declares she wants nothing more to do with Ji Ruochen, severing the bracelet he gave her and proclaiming she will forget all his words and kindness before fleeing. Seeing her escape, several guests demand she be captured and refined into an elixir, as she is a five-tailed fox spirit. Ji Ruochen, ignoring the chaos around him, instinctively rushes to Zhang Yinyin's side to protect her from the mob, urging her to leave.
She pushes him away, saying she never wants to see him again. Master Ziyang is furious at Ji Ruochen's actions, demanding he return to the wedding and reminding him that Zhang Yinyin, as a demon, should have been immediately executed, and his previous leniency towards her was already an exception. However, Ji Ruochen refuses to obey, pushes away Gu Qing's hand as she tries to stop him, and runs off to pursue Zhang Yinyin.
Master Ziyang, left with no other choice, announces that the wedding is temporarily canceled and will be rescheduled for another day, dismissing the confused guests. After an exhaustive and fruitless search for Zhang Yinyin, Ji Ruochen returns to the deserted and ruined wedding hall late at night, finding it a desolate wreck. He finds Gu Qing standing alone amidst the wreckage. Gu Qing, facing away from him, asks why he returned instead of continuing to search for Zhang Yinyin.
She then questions why she should be at his beck and call, asserting her status as a banished immortal. Gu Qing, with cold desperation, then asks if he never loved her, why he agreed to marry her in the first place. When Ji Ruochen asks if that is important, she firmly replies that it is, because he saved her life. Ji Ruochen looks at Gu Qing's empty and cold eyes, realizing he has hurt another woman.
Episode 13 Recap
Gu Qing tearfully confronted Ji Ruochen, demanding to know why he had agreed to marry her if he never truly loved her. Ji Ruochen admitted it was because she had once saved his life. Gu Qing was devastated, realizing that the entire engagement was a deception, designed to serve his hidden agenda with Zhang Yinyin. Despite having intended to feign indifference and stay with him until old age, her spirit was broken by his deceit.
She questioned if he ever harbored even the slightest desire to marry her, to which he chillingly replied, "Never." Overwhelmed by sorrow, Ji Ruochen apologized and declared his intention to tell their Master to cancel their engagement. Driven by a desperate need to find Zhang Yinyin, Ji Ruochen sought out the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox, who he believed had last seen her.
The Heavenly Fox, still furious over Ji Ruochen's betrayal of Zhang Yinyin, threatened to kill him, asserting it would be better if he never saw Zhang Yinyin again. Ji Ruochen acknowledged his grave error and pleaded for a chance to explain himself to Zhang Yinyin face-to-face. Testing his sincerity, the Heavenly Fox demanded his eyes. Without hesitation, Ji Ruochen offered them, stating he would give anything to see her.
Seeing his unwavering resolve, the Heavenly Fox called him a "silly boy," confirming that Zhang Yinyin had indeed been there but had already departed. Ji Ruochen was consumed by remorse, realizing the depth of Zhang Yinyin's pain. Meanwhile, a heartbroken Gu Qing drowned her sorrows alone. Yinfeng found her in her despair, reminding her of their enduring bond, which transcended mere romantic love. He gently guided her back to Yun Zhong Ju.
Elsewhere, Qing Yi, concerned for Zhang Yinyin, followed her. She urged Zhang Yinyin to return with her to the Endless Sea, arguing that the mortal world was too painful and that the Endless Sea offered a quiet solace. Zhang Yinyin, however, declined, expressing a desire to wander the world alone, hoping to truly forget Ji Ruochen. She admitted uncertainty about whether she could truly forget him, but felt that living unburdened and traveling freely would bring her peace.
In another turn of events, Shang Qiushui emerged victorious in a combat against Shi Ji. This victory, combined with the visible affections between them, sparked a new hope for alliance between the Xixuan Sect and Yun Zhong Ju. Hierarch Jinshan of Yun Zhong Ju, accompanied by his disciples, visited the Master of Xixuan Sect, demanding an explanation for Ji Ruochen's abandonment of Gu Qing, which had greatly shamed Yun Zhong Ju.
The Master of Xixuan Sect, eager to mend ties and secure Jingxiao Zhenren's cure, humbly apologized and proposed a new marriage alliance. Senior Yunfeng recommended Shang Qiushui as an ideal candidate among Xixuan's young talents. Impressed by Shang Qiushui's character, Hierarch Jinshan asked Shi Ji if she would agree to the marriage. Shi Ji, who already harbored feelings for Shang Qiushui, readily agreed.
Hierarch Jinshan, however, stipulated that Shang Qiushui would need to become a live-in son-in-law for Yun Zhong Ju. In return, Hierarch Jinshan promised to lift the strange poison afflicting Jingxiao Zhenren, honoring an earlier agreement contingent on the alliance. The Master of Xixuan Sect reminded Shang Qiushui that he would not force the marriage, given Ji Ruochen's previous actions, and that Shang Qiushui's personal happiness was paramount.
As a result of this renewed alliance, Shang Qiushui and Shi Ji married smoothly, and Jingxiao Zhenren finally awoke from his illness, expressing his gratitude to Yun Zhong Ju for their aid. Out in the mortal world, Zhang Yinyin continued her solitary travels, seeking to forget Ji Ruochen. However, news of the Xixuan Sect and its recent events seemed inescapable. She overheard conversations about "limited-edition dolls" commemorating the marriage alliance between Xixuan Sect and Yun Zhong Ju.
Despite her efforts to remain unseen, she noticed people carrying her portrait and inquiring about her whereabouts, realizing Ji Ruochen was relentlessly searching for her. Zhang Yinyin quietly hid herself, unsure how she could ever face him again.
Episode 14 Recap
Ji Ruochen, searching through a town, spotted Zhang Yinyin's distinct handwriting on a piece of paper, reigniting his hope. Though Zhang Yinyin had once wished for him to forget her and find happiness with Gu Qing, Ji Ruochen's deep affection made forgetting impossible as he tirelessly sought her out. Meanwhile, Gu Qing awoke from a dream where Yinfeng had asked if she remembered their ancient commitment.
She couldn't, or wouldn't, remember, expressing her desire to be only with Ji Ruochen and pleading for Yinfeng to stop pursuing her. Yinfeng, who had been diligently caring for her in her unconscious state at Yun Zhong Ju, explained she was in a guest room where he, as a guest, was also staying. Gu Qing, still reeling from the dream where Yinfeng had entered her space and thoughts, accused him of being presumptuous.
Yinfeng gently insisted that with the bluestone returned, she should revert to her original, immortal self, but Gu Qing lamented that she had lost her immortal dharma-laksana and was no different from a mortal. Yinfeng vowed to help her regain it, even reminding her how Ji Ruochen had treated her at the Xixuan hall, where she had given up her immortal form for him.
Despite Yinfeng's unwavering devotion, Gu Qing maintained that her past connection with him was irrelevant and asked him to leave. As Gu Qing stumbled out of bed and into the courtyard, visions of her shared past with Yinfeng suddenly appeared before her eyes, as Yinfeng recounted their history.
He had been with her through ninety-nine lifetimes, first as an elder brother figure to her as a young girl, then as a companion in martial arts training when she became a female warrior. In a later life, as a general on the battlefield, he, her loyal subordinate, had shielded her from danger, stepping in front of her to face countless enemies.
Yinfeng recounted how he had promised to bear all hardships with her, protecting and caring for her until they could return to the God Realm together. He lamented not finding her sooner, preventing her from suffering such injustice, and explained that he had willingly followed her to the mortal realm after she was banished. He pleaded with her to return to the God Realm with him, to be a perfect couple by the Wuding River once more.
Gu Qing, however, confessed she couldn't even recall his original immortal appearance, to which Yinfeng assured her she would remember once her immortal consciousness fully awakened. A Yun Zhong Ju disciple named Tan then arrived, expressing displeasure at Yinfeng's presence, but Gu Qing defended him, asserting she had invited him into the guest room. Elsewhere, Zhang Yinyin and Ji Ruochen found themselves captured by members of the Luoran Sect.
They were accused of being "evil female cultivators" from the Xixuan Sect, seemingly to avenge Luoran's losses in Haofang City. Ji Ruochen initially tried to trick their captors by boasting that Xixuan forces were on their way and by feigning a willingness to sacrifice Zhang Yinyin, claiming her master, Ziwei, was in a deadly retreat and couldn't support her. The Luoran Sect members, however, were unconvinced, dismissing him as a braggart.
They bound the two and confined them in a dungeon constructed from Heaven-sealing Stones, designed to drain spiritual energy and lock true spirits, ensuring they wouldn't survive the night. Alone in the dungeon, Ji Ruochen produced a paper crane from his robes, which Zhang Yinyin initially refused to look at. However, she recognized the gardenia scent, confirming it was from her mother.
The letter explained that Zhang Yinyin's father, Jingxiao, had been poisoned by Xuxuan, and her mother, desperate to save him, had threatened Ji Ruochen with Jingxiao's life to force a marriage alliance with Gu Qing, hoping to secure an antidote from Yun Zhong Ju. The letter revealed that Jingxiao was now cured and the engagement between Ji Ruochen and Gu Qing was broken, urging Zhang Yinyin and Ji Ruochen to reconcile and return to Xixuan.
Zhang Yinyin was aghast, realizing she had terribly misunderstood Ji Ruochen, who had endured her accusations, insults, and even a sword stab, all while trying to save her father. Ji Ruochen explained he hadn't told her to spare her from the distress. The couple finally reconciled, admitting how much they missed each other.
Zhang Yinyin then asked about the rumors of Xixuan's marriage alliance and who saved her father; Ji Ruochen clarified that Senior Qiushui's marriage to Miss Shi Ji had led Elder Jin Shan to intervene and save Jingxiao. They then focused on finding a way to escape. Meanwhile, Li Xuanzhen, having heard of Zhang Yinyin and Ji Ruochen's capture, sought out Ji Bingxian on a remote mountaintop.
Ji Bingxian, initially uninterested in Li Xuanzhen's "messy things," was eventually persuaded when Li Xuanzhen explained that everyone in Xixuan, including Senior Yunfeng, believed only Ji Bingxian could help. Li Xuanzhen even playfully teased her about being lonely since Senior Qiushui's marriage had left her without challengers.
Upon hearing the urgency of the situation—that Zhang Yinyin and Ji Ruochen were taken by the Luoran Sect and their lives were at risk—Ji Bingxian immediately agreed, urging Li Xuanzhen to lead the way. They arrived at the Luoran mountain gate, where Ji Bingxian boldly announced herself as a disciple of Changyang Palace of Xixuan and demanded to see their hierarch. Xuxuan of the Qingxu Sect was present, greeting Lord Daluo, the Luoran Sect leader.
Xuxuan affirmed that Xixuan had attacked as Lord Daluo expected, and offered Qingxu's aid to destroy Xixuan, emphasizing their disobedient stance against the dominant Xixuan Sect. Ji Bingxian, unimpressed by the Luoran Sect's unpaved entrance, swiftly engaged the enemy, demonstrating her incredibly fast swordsmanship, to the awe of Li Xuanzhen and the dismay of the Luoran members who quickly retreated. Later, Gu Qing visited Yinfeng, who was resting in his room.
An attendant named Tan had just left after bringing him a brazier. Gu Qing observed Yinfeng's ill state, noting his "old problem" seemed to be worsening. She quickly deduced that he had suffered a backlash from a dreadstar by the Hao River, damaging his primordial spirit and deity prowess. Gu Qing offered him a Golden Elixir, a secret remedy from Yun Zhong Ju, to heal him.
Yinfeng found the elixir bitter, prompting Gu Qing to playfully remark on a banished god's dislike for bitterness. As she reached out, her hand accidentally brushed against a jade artifact on Yinfeng, triggering a cascade of forgotten memories. Gu Qing relived a past life where she, as the Bluestone God, was punished by the Heavenly Emperor for releasing a Great Heavenly Demon, condemned to a hundred lifetimes of tribulation in the impure world.
During this vision, she heard the Border Patrol God, Yinfeng's true identity, pleading with the Heavenly Emperor to spare her and vowing to follow her to the mortal realm, unwilling to let her endure countless hardships alone. Upon remembering their ten-thousand-year companionship by the Wuding River and his unwavering devotion through ninety-nine lifetimes, Gu Qing's eyes welled with tears, realizing the depth of his sacrifice for her.
Episode 15 Recap
Gu Qing had fully regained her immortal consciousness, shedding tears. Yinfeng, overjoyed, spoke of their ancient bond, recalling their ten thousand years of companionship by the Wuding River where she had enlightened him through the seven volumes of the Book of Heaven. He believed with her divine consciousness restored, nothing could stop them from returning to the God Realm, pledging to help her recover her immortal dharma-laksana.
However, Gu Qing was unable to face him, acknowledging his deep affection but lamenting that everything in this life felt wrong. Ji Ruochen then introduced himself. Yinfeng, seeing Ji Ruochen, questioned Gu Qing's hesitation, asking if his ten millennia of devotion and their ninety-nine lifetimes of intertwined destinies meant less to her than Ji Ruochen. Despite Gu Qing's reluctance, Yinfeng insisted on helping her, stating his willingness to do anything for her.
Gu Qing, feeling overwhelmed, asked why he persisted, then turned and departed despondently. Soon after, Yinfeng detected someone hiding in his room and called them out. It was the Hierarch of Mount Luoran. The Hierarch commented that Yun Zhong Ju seemed a good place for healing, to which Yinfeng responded by acknowledging his intent but questioning his personal visit and if he was afraid of causing further trouble.
Yinfeng then directly confronted the Hierarch for intruding and eavesdropping, warning him that had Gu Qing not been there, this might have been his last view of Yun Zhong Ju. The Hierarch revealed that Ji Ruochen was trapped in Mount Luoran, suggesting it was an opportune moment to act. Yinfeng, still a disciple of Qingxu Sect, perceived this as an attempt to use him to eliminate Ji Ruochen.
The Hierarch corrected him, stating it was about sharing a common hatred and warning that Gu Qing would never return to him until Ji Ruochen was killed by the Dingtian Sword. Meanwhile, Li Xuanzhen, who possessed a Xuanxin ring filled with various practical items, led Ji Bingxian on a rescue mission to save Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin from the Luoran School. He boldly challenged the Luoran School to release their captives, threatening destruction and taunting their cultivators.
As they prepared for battle, Li Xuanzhen realized the powerful Mount Luoran formation had imprisoned his true spirit, indicating a tough fight. During the skirmish, Ji Bingxian was struck by arrows. Li Xuanzhen rushed to her side, blaming himself for her injury. Realizing their limited strength, and unable to seek help from their masters due to Zhang Yinyin's prior expulsion from the sect, Li Xuanzhen decided to seek assistance from Senior Qiushui, instructing Ji Bingxian to wait for his return.
While Yinfeng continued to help Gu Qing with her fluctuating divine power, Li Xuanzhen urgently arrived at Yun Zhong Ju. He barged past Qiushui's wife, urgently informing Qiushui that Ji Bingxian was severely injured and Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin had been captured, emphasizing the critical need for immediate help. Qiushui, recognizing the gravity of the situation, decided to accompany Li Xuanzhen, despite his wife's wish to join them, as he believed Yun Zhong Ju's direct intervention would complicate matters.
Simultaneously, a Yun Zhong Ju attendant gossiped to a senior sister about the "lawless" Xixuan individuals who had intruded and taken Qiushui, dismissing Ji Ruochen as a "fake banished god" with no ties to Yun Zhong Ju. Gu Qing, overhearing the news of Ji Ruochen's peril, became visibly worried. Yinfeng observed her concern, reinforcing his belief that Ji Ruochen remained an obstacle to Gu Qing's complete return to him, remarking that "Xuxuan was right." He then decided to act.
Yinfeng, determined, quickly located Ji Ruochen. While Li Xuanzhen, Ji Bingxian, and their allies, including Qingyi and others from the Endless Sea, were fighting their way out of Mount Luoran using a Dragon and Tiger Universal Cannon, Yinfeng confronted Ji Ruochen directly. Ji Ruochen greeted Yinfeng, recalling their last encounter, and, attempting to protect Zhang Yinyin, asked Yinfeng to let her go, which Yinfeng agreed to.
Zhang Yinyin, aware of Yinfeng's superior power, tried to negotiate by suggesting they return the title of banished immortal to him as a basis for a deal. Yinfeng, however, was resolute in killing Ji Ruochen, blaming him for Gu Qing's loss of her dharma-laksana and her stubbornness. Ji Ruochen, now having someone to protect, declared he would fight. Yinfeng retorted that Ji Ruochen had only previously escaped due to fate and this time he would not miss.
Zhang Yinyin then attempted a diversion, transforming her appearance into Gu Qing's. In this guise, she claimed her engagement with Ji Ruochen was broken, admitting their connection was a mistake. She reaffirmed Yinfeng as the "master of the bluestone" and her destined partner for their return to the God Realm, pleading with him to spare Ji Ruochen. Yinfeng, however, immediately saw through the illusion.
Just as he moved to strike Ji Ruochen, the real Gu Qing arrived, ordering him to stop. Gu Qing then instructed Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin to leave, stating the matter was between her and Yinfeng. Zhang Yinyin sincerely thanked Gu Qing for saving Ji Ruochen and extended gratitude to Yun Zhong Ju for saving her father.
Gu Qing then vehemently condemned Yinfeng for his ruthless pursuit, stating there was no possibility between her and Ji Ruochen and questioning why Yinfeng needed to be so merciless. She accused him of slandering others for his own selfish desires and admitted her misjudgment of him, stating that if the one who was meant to fulfill their hundred-lifetime appointment was as narrow-minded and indiscriminately murderous as him, she would rather live out her life alone in the mortal world.
Yinfeng defended himself, claiming he had personally witnessed the energy of the Nine Hells within Ji Ruochen, asserting that Ji Ruochen was undoubtedly a demon and therefore his actions were justified. He desperately pleaded with Gu Qing to believe him. However, Gu Qing rejected his claims, cutting off the conversation and explicitly banishing him from Yun Zhong Ju, declaring he was no longer welcome and could return to the God Realm alone.
Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin then departed, stopping at a tailor shop where Ji Ruochen, smitten by Zhang Yinyin's beauty in a new outfit, bought it for her. Zhang Yinyin showed him a "lovesickness knot" on the garment, explaining its meaning, but Ji Ruochen admitted he was too busy admiring her to learn how to tie it. He generously paid the shopkeeper with a large bill, refusing change.
As night fell, they found an inn, which, to Zhang Yinyin's dismay, only offered one luxurious suite. They reluctantly agreed to share it, with Zhang Yinyin taking the inner room. Later that night, Ji Ruochen, unable to sleep, entered Zhang Yinyin's room, admitting he was afraid she might disappear if he closed his eyes. Their conversation drifted to Gu Qing, and Zhang Yinyin reflected on her previous misunderstanding of Gu Qing and the great debt they both owed her.
Ji Ruochen agreed, feeling he owed Gu Qing his life. Zhang Yinyin then playfully questioned Ji Ruochen's recent extravagant spending, teasing him about how he acquired such funds. Ji Ruochen revealed that Senior Qiushui had given him the money when he sought him out. Asserting that his money was now her money, Zhang Yinyin confiscated his remaining silver notes for safekeeping, fearing his profligacy.
As she pocketed the money, she playfully remarked on his foiled attempt to outsmart her, prompting Ji Ruochen to jokingly declare he needed to recite a "Mind Purification Mantra." Their conversation was abruptly interrupted by a knock in the middle of the night. A person at the door, sent by Ji Tianxia, requested payment for a book called "Qianyuan Manual" from Ji Ruochen, with the inn's wine bill to be used as an offset. Ji Ruochen immediately asked for Ji Tianxia's current location.
Episode 16 Recap
Late at night, an innkeeper knocked on Ji Ruochen's door, informing him that a swordsman downstairs had accumulated a large tab and asked Ji Ruochen to pay it. Curious, Ji Ruochen went downstairs and discovered the man was none other than Mr. Ji, who had previously given him the Qianyuan Manual. Mr. Ji invited Ji Ruochen to drink with him.
Ji Ruochen raised his cup to express his gratitude, acknowledging that without Mr. Ji's Qianyuan Manual, he would have perished, burned alive in a copper pot. Mr. Ji spoke of destiny and warned Ji Ruochen that his predestined calamity was approaching, urging him to be extremely cautious. Ji Ruochen pressed Mr. Ji about the "heavenly secret" and the "Calamity of the Three Realms," which his Master Ziyang had mentioned.
Mr. Ji stated that the Three Realms' chaotic energy had been out of balance for a long time, leading to inevitable chaos, which is a natural cycle. He emphasized that the true challenge lay in how the "person involved in the calamity" would face it, hinting that this person was Ji Ruochen himself.
Mr. Ji ominously added that Ji Ruochen's fate had changed, and his "date of death" was imminent, clarifying that this calamity was greater than any baleful star influencing his fate and had been written in his destiny since birth. He revealed that all their past actions were intended to guide Ji Ruochen onto the path of immortal cultivation so he could truly become the destined person to face the calamity.
Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin arrived at the Cloud Residence, which they believed to be a branch of the Xixuan Sect, finding it deserted. They deduced the disciples must have left abruptly, perhaps not by choice. Suddenly, they heard a noise, and preparing for a fight, discovered it was Senior Yunfeng. Senior Yunfeng confirmed that Jin Shan, who had helped resolve the Qingxu secret poison, had recovered.
He explained that he was there under their master's orders to investigate the disappearance of many disciples from the Xixuan Sect's branch near the capital. He revealed that the Zhenwu Temple, under Sun Guo, was responsible. Sun Guo was not only hunting Xixuan disciples and forcing them to slander their own sect by fabricating evidence of misconduct, but also spreading rumors that Ji Ruochen's identity as a banished immortal was fake and that the Xixuan Sect was colluding with monsters.
He also disclosed that Xu Zekai had been imprisoned in the capital, his fate unknown. Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin expressed their intent to go to the capital to confront Sun Guo and rescue Xu Zekai. Senior Yunfeng, acknowledging their reluctance to return to Xixuan Mountain due to previous controversies, reminded them that they were Xixuan disciples for life and would eventually return, but conceded that now was not the right time.
Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin planned to infiltrate the prison while Senior Yunfeng arranged carriages for their escape. Inside, they found many young Xixuan disciples, severely injured. Zhang Yinyin was enraged by the cruelty. Confronted by guards, Ji Ruochen instructed Zhang Yinyin to evacuate the children while he went to find Xu Zekai.
He located Xu Zekai, who explained that Crown Prince Li An had been swayed by Sun Guo and Luo Xichen, leading to the Zhenwu Temple's increased influence and their current aggressive actions against the Xixuan Sect. Xu Zekai suggested finding Li An to explain the truth and clear the sect's name. Ji Ruochen decided to go alone that very night to meet Li An. That night, Ji Ruochen went to the Crown Prince's mansion.
Luo Xichen, the Crown Princess, offered Li An a specially prepared Lily and Lotus Seed Soup, urging him to rest. As Li An retreated, Ji Ruochen appeared. Luo Xichen, aware of his purpose, stated that Li An was tired and she could handle any matters.
Ji Ruochen insisted on speaking to Li An directly about the false accusations against the Xixuan Sect, but Luo Xichen revealed she already knew, claiming the Imperial Advisor had told her the Xixuan Sect was hiding the Shenzhou Energy Map and intending to cause chaos.
Luo Xichen pretended to lead Ji Ruochen to Li An’s bedroom, where she then deceptively stabbed him with three Ecstasy Needles, which she claimed were refined with immortal arts and would cause victims to go mad and die. She then revealed her true motive: revenge for Yin Feng, whom she believed Ji Ruochen was responsible for his fate. Stunned and in immense pain, Ji Ruochen, his body burning and his strength sealed, realized the betrayal.
Luo Xichen called for an assassin alarm and, seeing more guards arriving, Ji Ruochen managed to escape by climbing onto the eaves. Fortunately, Mr. Ji appeared and quickly intervened. He managed to extract one of the Ecstasy Needles from Ji Ruochen's body, but two remained, moving unstably and directly threatening his blood and pulses. Mr. Ji declared that Ji Ruochen's life was in grave danger.
Zhang Yinyin, enraged, wanted to seek immediate revenge at the Crown Prince's mansion, but Mr. Ji stopped her, explaining that such a rash act would not only endanger her life but also play directly into Sun Guo's strategy to frame the Xixuan Sect. Zhang Yinyin desperately pleaded with Mr. Ji to save Ji Ruochen. Mr. Ji agreed to try, despite his humble claims of only knowing a little about medicine.
He then suggested that Senior Yunfeng, known for his Golden Elixir Skill inherited from Master Ziyang, should refine elixirs to aid Ji Ruochen's recovery. Senior Yunfeng, though modest about his skill, readily agreed to do his utmost. Mr. Ji also speculated that Yin Feng might be involved in refining the Ecstasy Needles due to the presence of immortal power. Meanwhile, Luo Xichen dispatched Zhenwu Temple disciples to relentlessly pursue Ji Ruochen, aiming to eradicate him completely.
She acknowledged that Ji Ruochen was proving tougher than expected, as Senior Yunfeng had been seen purchasing herbs for internal injuries. Back at their refuge, Zhang Yinyin and Senior Yunfeng diligently cared for the gravely injured Ji Ruochen. One day, Ji Ruochen's eyes suddenly opened. Zhang Yinyin, overjoyed at his awakening after so long, rushed to embrace him. However, Ji Ruochen, seemingly a different person, reacted violently, grabbing her and acting like a predatory animal.
Zhang Yinyin struggled and cried for help. Mr. Ji and Senior Yunfeng quickly arrived and pulled them apart. Mr. Ji explained that Ji Ruochen's violent outburst was a manifestation of the Ecstasy Needles' poison. He revealed that he had temporarily locked the remaining two needles in Ji Ruochen's Yun and Fu acupoints, but this was only a temporary measure, and a more permanent solution was needed.
Senior Yunfeng reassured Ji Ruochen that Xu Zekai was recovering well and had been sent back to Xixuan Mountain for reinforcements. Ji Ruochen complained of severe chest and head pain. Mr. Ji, reiterating the severity of Ji Ruochen's condition and the unpredictable "wild beast" like attacks, urged Senior Yunfeng to continue refining the elixirs and warned both Senior Yunfeng and Zhang Yinyin to "pay more attention" to Ji Ruochen throughout the night.
Zhang Yinyin, realizing the implications of Mr. Ji's warning, decided that she would sleep in the outer room while Senior Yunfeng would take the kitchen, ensuring Ji Ruochen was constantly monitored by one of them.
Episode 17 Recap
Late at night, Ji Ruochen abruptly sat up in bed, overcome by a malevolent aura. He seemed not to recognize Qiushui, clutching her neck and throwing her forcefully to the ground, shattering a table. Hearing the commotion, Zhang Yinyin rushed in, repeatedly calling Ji Ruochen's name and urging him to awaken. He lunged at her with a sword, but Zhang Yinyin's persistent cries ultimately pierced through his madness, restoring his senses and causing him to drop the weapon.
After Ji Ruochen collapsed, Qiushui and Zhang Yinyin discussed the alarming incident. Qiushui was particularly worried about the "blue energy" that had manifested, noting it was an unknown technique to the Xixuan Sect. She suspected it was related to the Ecstasy Needles but remained uncertain. Qiushui sternly warned Zhang Yinyin to keep the events of that night a secret from Ji Ruochen, emphasizing that they were his sole support.
Meanwhile, Luo Xichen, Yinfeng's sister and now the Crown Princess, confronted Yinfeng. She confessed to having used Ecstasy Needles, crafted with her divine power, to target Ji Ruochen, causing him to lose his mind. She explicitly stated her intent to kill him to avenge Yinfeng, accusing Ji Ruochen of killing him and usurping his identity as a banished god in the past.
Yinfeng tried to dissuade her, asserting that he would resolve his own grievances and did not wish for her to become entangled in mortal enmities. However, Luo Xichen was resolute, claiming her past suffering was due to Ji Ruochen. Later, Taixuan and Taiwei were dispatched to the capital to rescue imprisoned disciples, including Zekai, who confirmed that his Senior Brother Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin had saved him from the dungeon.
To aid Ji Ruochen's recovery, Senior Yunfeng tirelessly prepared elixirs, staying awake for two days and nights. Ji Ruochen, however, found the initial concoction to have a foul, fishy odor, likening it to "mouse droppings." Senior Yunfeng realized his mistake: he had forgotten to dry and fry the "trogopterus dung", a crucial ingredient. He apologized and promised to prepare a new batch. Later, Mr. Ji visited Ji Ruochen. Ji Ruochen expressed skepticism about Senior Yunfeng's elixir's efficacy.
Mr. Ji then offered an enigmatic alternative, suggesting that the true solution lay within Ji Ruochen himself and his ability to act according to his own will, rather than being bound by a predetermined fate. This advice prompted Ji Ruochen to seek solitude by a stream. There, he began to forcefully expel the Ecstasy Needles from his body, using his own power. Gu Qing arrived as Ji Ruochen was expelling the second needle.
Observing the lingering malevolent energy on it, she finally conceded that Yinfeng had been right all along: Ji Ruochen was indeed a demon, bearing the energy of the Nine Hells. She expressed regret for her earlier disbelief in Yinfeng. Gu Qing then questioned Ji Ruochen about his decision to choose Zhang Yinyin over her. He confessed that he couldn't explain why, only that since meeting Zhang Yinyin, his heart had no room for anyone else.
Gu Qing then bid him farewell. As Gu Qing departed, she realized Yinfeng was tracking her. Yinfeng, now assured that Gu Qing also recognized Ji Ruochen's demonic nature, urged her to join him in eliminating Ji Ruochen, asserting it was their divine responsibility as gods and demons were irreconcilable. Gu Qing refused, reiterating her reluctance to harm him, as he had once been the one she cherished, despite his current nature.
Disregarding Gu Qing's refusal, Yinfeng directly confronted Ji Ruochen, declaring his intention to kill him to uphold the natural order. Yinfeng revealed that the blue flame Ji Ruochen possessed was the "Blue Fire of the Nine Hells," a remnant demon flame from the ancient Demon King, capable of destroying all life. He proclaimed that Ji Ruochen, born with this power, was undeniably a demon.
Ji Ruochen, taken aback by the revelation of his power's name, scoffed at the idea of being a demon, particularly given how he was once believed to be destined to save the Three Realms. He challenged Yinfeng's rigid definitions of "celestial" and "demon," questioning Yinfeng's sole authority to interpret the will of heaven. Their debate escalated into a fierce confrontation.
During the battle, Ji Ruochen, recalling a past instance where he almost harmed Yinfeng, voluntarily ceased fighting, declaring their old grudges settled. However, Yinfeng, acting without honor, launched a sneak attack. He exploited residual divine power still lingering on the Ecstasy Needle to disrupt Ji Ruochen's demonic energy, rendering the "Blue Fire of the Nine Hells" ineffective. Yinfeng maintained that eliminating demons was his duty as a deity, regardless of the means, and prepared to deliver a final, decisive blow.
Episode 18 Recap
As Yinfeng’s sword was poised to strike Ji Ruochen, intent on eliminating what he perceived as a demon, Gu Qing suddenly intervened, deflecting the blade. She tearfully pleaded with Yinfeng to spare Ji Ruochen’s life, promising to return with him immediately to Qingxu, to practice the Book of Heaven, find her dharma-laksana, and fulfill their one hundred lifetime commitment to return to the God Realm together. Yinfeng, having secured her promise, released Ji Ruochen and departed with Gu Qing.
Severely wounded and barely clinging to life, Ji Ruochen lay amidst the rain. He felt an overwhelming fatigue, yearning for sleep, but a mysterious voice urged him to persevere, reminding him that his mission to bring peace to the Three Realms was far from over. He also saw Zhang Yinyin’s face in his mind, knowing he could not leave her alone. Bolstered by this fierce will to live, Ji Ruochen held on until Qiushui and Zhang Yinyin finally found him.
Qiushui, having reconnected Ji Ruochen’s tendons and meridians, acknowledged the severity of his condition, noting that his true essence was scattered and his cultivation abolished, a devastating blow for any practitioner. He suggested that this calamity might be an opportunity for enlightenment and positive transformation. Upon seeing Ji Ruochen's grave injuries, Zhang Yinyin's grief turned to rage. Convinced that Yinfeng was responsible, she immediately drew her sword, intending to seek vengeance. However, Qiushui intervened, stopping her.
He calmly reminded her that Ji Ruochen, if he were to awaken, would wish to see her first. He emphasized that protecting someone was far more difficult than hating, and there were more critical matters than revenge awaiting her. Knowing the capital faced immense danger from forces like Sun Guo’s Zhenwu Temple and the Luoran Sect, and with the potential interference of the Qingxu Sect, Qiushui urged her to return to Ji Ruochen’s side.
Overcome by Qiushui's words and the thought of Ji Ruochen, Zhang Yinyin returned to nurse him. Meanwhile, Zhang Yinyin's mother, Huang Xinglan, distressed by her daughter's disappearance after accidentally revealing her five-tailed fox form at Ji Ruochen’s wedding, sought out Su He, the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox, who was imprisoned by the Xixuan Sect.
Su He, resentful of her captivity and Xixuan's past treatment, initially mocked Huang Xinglan's request to help Zhang Yinyin, reminding her that she had only taken Yinyin as a disciple out of boredom. Huang Xinglan questioned if Su He was involved in Yinyin's revealing her fox form and accused her of having previously afflicted Yinyin with a "demon-rearing plant."
Su He confirmed teaching Yinyin the Heavenly Fox Secret Technique, which led to the revelation, but countered that Yinyin had "sought her out" to become a disciple, sarcastically asking why Huang Xinglan, as a mother, hadn't intervened when Yinyin's heart's desire was almost stolen, implying Yinyin sought her out due to both the plant and her emotional distress.
Desperate, Huang Xinglan offered to remove the Demon Subduing Nails that bound Su He, despite the extreme pain and the rules of Xixuan Sect. She declared that she feared nothing as long as her daughter was safe. Seeing Huang Xinglan's fierce maternal love, Su He agreed to help. With agonizing effort, Huang Xinglan manually extracted the immensely sturdy Demon Subduing Nails, enduring immense pain that would have shattered a sword.
Once freed, the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox let out a resounding laugh, then departed. Ji Ruochen eventually awoke, finding a strange calm despite his knowledge that his tendons were broken and his cultivation destroyed. He no longer felt the pressure to uphold his master's expectations or Huaniang's hopes, believing himself to be a "useless person" free from the burdens of being a banished god or facing calamities. He watched Zhang Yinyin and Qiushui tirelessly care for him.
Zhang Yinyin even chased after their sheep, Wanwan, to get goat milk for him, a sight that brought a rare smile to his face. Seeing their dedication, Ji Ruochen resolved not to give up. Later that night, feeling a faint resurgence of strength, he unwrapped his bandages and began to attempt walking on his own.
News of Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin's disappearance reached the Master of the Endless Sea, who dispatched Qingyi to the Netherworld with a rare treasure for the Demon Emperor. Qingyi, on behalf of her master, requested the Demon Emperor's aid in locating and ensuring the safety of Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin, who had left the capital. The Demon Emperor, despite his sect's deep-seated enmity with Xixuan, accepted the task.
However, he secretly plotted with his subordinate, Wushang, to find the pair and then report their location to Sun Guo’s Zhenwu Temple, leveraging the conflict to eliminate Ji Ruochen and avenge his own blood debts against Xixuan, rather than protecting them. Zhang Yinyin rushed to Ji Ruochen’s side, overjoyed to see him attempting to walk. Ji Ruochen inquired if she wished to return to Xixuan Mountains.
Zhang Yinyin admitted she missed her parents, Qiushui, and Xuanzhen, but hesitated due to her manifested fox form and the potential dishonor it would bring to her sect's teachings. Ji Ruochen reassured her, expressing his desire to leave behind the complexities of the immortal world and start anew with her in a place where no one knew them, far from the machinations of their masters and opposing sects.
He envisioned a simple life for them, where he would be the shopkeeper and she the boss lady, managing the accounts. Their conversation turned playful, culminating in Ji Ruochen playfully asking her to bear him chubby babies, and after some playful negotiation, they settled on one. Their intimate moment continued as they fell into an embrace after he stumbled, with Ji Ruochen then seizing the opportunity to kiss her. Meanwhile, in Qingxu Mountain, the Hierarch discussed strategies with his subordinates.
He sought to persuade Yun Zhong Ju to join forces with Qingxu and the Imperial Advisor against Xixuan Sect, especially since Gu Qing had, in his view, joined Qingxu. Gu Qing, however, was declared by Yinfeng to be his guest, not truly a Qingxu disciple. Gu Qing herself suspected the Hierarch's true motive was to manipulate Yun Zhong Ju into the conflict.
Yinfeng, despite having destroyed Ji Ruochen's cultivation and seemingly settling his grudge, declared his disinterest in mortal affairs and the two sects' dispute, preferring to focus on practicing the Book of Heaven with Gu Qing.
The Hierarch and his subordinate, frustrated by Yinfeng’s indifference, speculated that he would eventually be drawn back into the chaos if the Three Realms truly descended into disorder, especially given Xixuan Sect's possession of the Shenzhou Energy Map, which they believed no sect could resist coveting. They resolved to proceed cautiously, waiting for Xixuan to make a misstep, ultimately seeking to claim the map for themselves.
Episode 19 Recap
The calm that Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin found in the valley was short-lived, as people from Zhenwu Temple soon located them. Zhang Yinyin, Ji Ruochen, and Senior Yunfeng quickly evacuated that night. With the news of Ji Ruochen being a fake banished god now widely known, various sects began to turn against Xixuan.
Meanwhile, Hierarch Xuxuan of Qingxu Sect, having recently accepted Yinfeng into their ranks, visited Hierarch Jin Shan of Yun Zhong Ju, hoping to persuade him to join forces against Xixuan. Hierarch Xuxuan congratulated Jin Shan, claiming Fairy Gu Qing had joined Qingxu. However, Hierarch Jin Shan corrected him, stating Gu Qing was merely a guest accompanying Yinfeng. Hierarch Xuxuan continued to blame Xixuan Sect for the "fake banished god" deception, arguing that it harmed both Yinfeng and Gu Qing.
He pressed Hierarch Jin Shan to cut ties with Xixuan and align with Qingxu and Imperial Advisor Sun Guo in upholding the "heavenly way." Hierarch Jin Shan, philosophically musing about the true meaning of the "heavenly way" while fishing, chose to defer a decision and politely asked Hierarch Xuxuan to leave through the front door next time.
Despite the refusal, Hierarch Xuxuan believed that Yun Zhong Ju, though not overtly allying, would likely not assist Xixuan in future conflicts due to Hierarch Jin Shan's apparent shift in stance, leaving Xixuan vulnerable. By a tranquil river, as Senior Yunfeng practiced sword fighting, Ji Ruochen struggled to even lift the Chiying Sword, keenly feeling his weakness. Senior Yunfeng, who had been diligently caring for him, offered words of encouragement, reminding him of his past prowess and giving him medicine.
Ji Ruochen, burdened by a secret, confessed that he was not the true banished god but a fake, mistakenly taken into Xixuan Sect. Senior Yunfeng calmly revealed he had suspected as much, having observed strange blue flames and sleepwalking during Ji Ruochen's time in Xixuan. He reassured Ji Ruochen that his true identity was less important than his upright character.
Senior Yunfeng then shared his own story of being rescued by Master Ziyang and finding purpose as a Xixuan disciple, emphasizing his pride in Ji Ruochen's contributions. He urged Ji Ruochen to embrace his own path, knowing he had already done much for Xixuan. The next morning, Zhang Yinyin left to gather bamboo shoots for Ji Ruochen and Senior Yunfeng. Unbeknownst to her, a deadly ambush awaited.
Luo Xichen, accompanied by Imperial Advisor Sun Guo and operatives from Luoran School and Zhenwu Temple, cornered Ji Ruochen and Senior Yunfeng. Luo Xichen taunted Ji Ruochen, mocking his apparent loss of spiritual power and declaring him a "useless" man who should die. Senior Yunfeng bravely stepped forward, engaging the enemies with his "Swords as Shadows" technique. He urged Ji Ruochen to escape, affirming his duty as a senior disciple to protect his junior.
Luo Xichen offered Senior Yunfeng a chance to live if he abandoned Ji Ruochen, but Senior Yunfeng adamantly refused, proclaiming the unwavering dignity of Xixuan Sect. In a fierce struggle, Senior Yunfeng shielded Ji Ruochen, suffering multiple fatal blows. He collapsed in Ji Ruochen's arms, urging him to never forget Xixuan before dying.
Overwhelmed by grief and rage, Ji Ruochen watched as Luo Xichen bound him to a tree, taunting him about the suffering she had endured and promising him an even greater pain, mentioning a past figure named Luo Feng. Ji Ruochen, despite his helplessness, swore a solemn oath to avenge his senior and kill Luo Xichen. Just as Luo Xichen prepared to deliver the final blow, Zhang Yinyin arrived, swiftly severing Ji Ruochen's bonds.
Recognizing the overwhelming odds, Qing Yi and the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox arrived just in time, their presence forcing Luo Xichen and Imperial Advisor Sun Guo to retreat. Qing Yi, joining the fray, playfully chided them for not inviting her to the fight earlier. After the harrowing ordeal, Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin respectfully laid Senior Yunfeng to rest. Ji Ruochen, his cultivation now abolished, abandoned his previous plan of starting an inn outside the border.
Instead, consumed by grief and a renewed sense of purpose, he vowed to seek vengeance against Luo Xichen, Imperial Advisor Sun Guo, Zhenwu Temple, and Luoran School for Senior Yunfeng's sacrifice. Zhang Yinyin stood firmly by his side, reaffirming her lifelong commitment to him and their shared goal of helping Xixuan and eradicating evil. She also suggested taking Senior Yunfeng's sword back to Master Ziyang at Xixuan Mountain.
Meanwhile, at Taixuan Palace, Hierarch Ziyang confronted Huang Xinglan, Zhang Yinyin's mother, regarding the escape of Su He, the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox, from Peace Hall, where she had been locked by the Demon Subduing Nail. Huang Xinglan, with defiant courage, admitted to releasing Su He. She challenged Ziyang to punish her or her husband, Jingxiao, who was now paralyzed.
Ziyang, acting as interim Hierarch, showed leniency, issuing a warning but allowing it to be a one-time offense, noting Huang Xinglan's fortune that the stricter Ziwei Zhenren was not present. Huang Xinglan later explained to her husband that she released Su He because Ji Ruochen’s nature would lead him down Ziyang's path of calamity, potentially dragging Zhang Yinyin with him, and only Su He could truly protect their daughter.
Her husband expressed concern but acknowledged the deep love between Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin. Zhang Yinyin then pleaded with her master, the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox, for a way to restore Ji Ruochen's cultivation, which had been damaged by divine power. The Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox revealed a difficult but possible solution: obtaining a drop of Nuwa's Tear from Emotion Devourer Venerable at the Sky Mending Cliff, located within the Monster Forbidden Zone in the Endless Sea.
Nuwa's Tear was said to have the power to regenerate bones, revitalize flesh, and restore cultivation. Despite the perilous journey, Zhang Yinyin was resolute, convincing her master to accompany them. The Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox reluctantly agreed, warning that Emotion Devourer Venerable was not easily found and their success would depend on luck. She also revealed that everyone who leaves the Monster Forbidden Zone forgets what happened inside, hinting at her own past failure to obtain the tear.
Concurrently, at Qingxu Sect, Xuwang Zhenren attempted to pressure Gu Qing into persuading Yinfeng to join their alliance against Xixuan. Gu Qing, agitated, refused to involve herself in sectarian disputes, declaring her disinterest in Qingxu or Yun Zhong Ju matters. Xuwang Zhenren persisted, emphasizing Gu Qing's status as a guest of Qingxu and reminding her of her "hundred-lifetime appointment" with Yinfeng. Gu Qing, however, insisted she had forgotten everything about her past as an immortal.
At this critical moment, Yinfeng arrived. He fiercely defended Gu Qing, warning Xuwang Zhenren that any disrespect towards her would be met with his wrath, even if it meant destroying Qingxu Sect itself. He ordered his uncle, Xuwang Zhenren, to ensure no one disturbed Gu Qing's quiet cultivation without his explicit permission, then apologized to Gu Qing for his own momentary impatience.
With a potential path to recovery for Ji Ruochen, Zhang Yinyin and Ji Ruochen prepared for their arduous journey. Qing Yi and Mr. Ling joined them. Ji Ruochen expressed gratitude to Mr. Ling for his past assistance in saving Zhang Yinyin. Mr. Ling confirmed that his master had sent him to ensure their safe passage to Sky Mending Cliff.
Discovering that opening the Gate of the Monster Forbidden Zone required a significant expenditure of cultivation and that Mr. Ling's master had not authorized him to do so, the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox stepped forward. Declaring she would open the gate herself, she warned that she could only sustain it for a brief period, and that once inside, everything would be an illusion, demanding they remain clear-minded lest they be trapped forever. Zhang Yinyin and Ji Ruochen, expressing their profound gratitude, entered the mystical and dangerous Monster Forbidden Zone.
Episode 20 Recap
Zhang Yinyin, Ji Ruochen, and Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox arrived at the Endless Sea. Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox opened the gate to the Monster Forbidden Zone for them, and both Zhang Yinyin and Ji Ruochen entered, each finding themselves in an illusion. Inside his illusion, Ji Ruochen found himself in what appeared to be Tianxin Cave of Xixuan Mountains. Recognizing it as an illusion, he resolved not to be deceived.
The Sorrowful Love Venerable soon appeared, initially chiding "Zhang Yinyin" for taking too long and remarking on the coldness of "her cave," before Ji Ruochen formally introduced himself. The Venerable, impressed by his manners compared to "that girl," asked why he sought Nuwa's Tear – whether for healing or selfish cultivation. The Venerable then attempted to take something from Ji Ruochen, but was burned by a powerful purple energy emanating from him.
Realizing his formidable power, the Sorrowful Love Venerable declared that Ji Ruochen would not obtain Nuwa's Tears from her. Meanwhile, in Zhang Yinyin's illusion, she encountered the Sorrowful Love Venerable and was happy to finally meet her, believing it meant obtaining Nuwa's Tear was imminent. When asked who she was to Ji Ruochen, Zhang Yinyin confirmed she was both his senior and his fiancée. The Sorrowful Love Venerable then proposed an exchange for Nuwa's Tear: Zhang Yinyin's most precious possession.
Zhang Yinyin initially believed this meant Ji Ruochen himself, vehemently refusing to harm him, as he was her entire life. The Sorrowful Love Venerable clarified that she desired all of Zhang Yinyin's memories of Ji Ruochen, stating that if Zhang Yinyin was willing to forget him, he could be saved.
She detailed that the forgetting would be gradual, "day by day, little by little," until all memories of him were erased, ensuring that even if they met again, she would forget him instantly. Zhang Yinyin struggled with this immense sacrifice, asserting that her memories with Ji Ruochen were irreplaceable and more precious than anything.
The Sorrowful Love Venerable countered, arguing that memories were worthless if Ji Ruochen remained "a waste for the rest of his life" due to his ruined cultivation, and Zhang Yinyin would be left with "endless regrets and self-blame." She pressed Zhang Yinyin, reminding her of Ji Ruochen's deep resolve to avenge his senior, save Xixuan Sect, and help those suffering.
The Sorrowful Love Venerable stressed that Zhang Yinyin should help him fulfill these noble aspirations rather than clinging to her memories for selfish desire. After much internal anguish, Zhang Yinyin finally made the agonizing decision, telling the Sorrowful Love Venerable to "take them all," as long as Ji Ruochen could recover and achieve his goals.
As the Sorrowful Love Venerable extracted these "extremely pure memories," Zhang Yinyin wept, expressing her fear of never seeing Ji Ruochen again and her deep sorrow that their shared love would now only be remembered by him, begging him not to forget her. Just as the incense stick given by Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox was about to burn out, Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin emerged from the Monster Forbidden Zone.
Ji Ruochen, now feeling his true spirit greatly strengthened, realized he had recovered and correctly guessed that Zhang Yinyin must have obtained Nuwa's Tear. Zhang Yinyin also expressed joy at his recovery. He anxiously asked Zhang Yinyin what she had exchanged for it, but Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox interjected, claiming she had exchanged her "most important Heavenly Fox Secret Technique" to protect Zhang Yinyin's secret. Ling and Qing Yi rushed to greet them, overjoyed by their return.
However, confusion quickly set in as both Zhang Yinyin and Ji Ruochen realized they couldn't remember what had transpired inside the Monster Forbidden Zone. Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox explained that anyone who leaves the Monster Forbidden Zone forgets the events within, as it happened to her as well. Ji Ruochen, filled with joy from his recovery, tried to affectionately reach for Zhang Yinyin, but she recoiled, not recognizing him and calling him a "lecher."
Ling subtly confirmed that Zhang Yinyin seemed to have forgotten everything. Zhang Yinyin remembered Ling, Qing Yi, and Master Ziyang, but Ji Ruochen was a complete stranger to her. Ji Ruochen desperately tried to jog her memory, reminding her of their shared past: their purpose in coming to Endless Sea to heal him, their time together in the hut, making medicine, raising goats, and even planning to open an inn.
He also mentioned Xixuan Mountains, Qiushui, and how he used to cook for her when she was locked up. As he pressed her, Zhang Yinyin became increasingly distressed and collapsed. Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox assured them Zhang Yinyin would be fine after a sleep, but strictly warned them not to provoke her by trying to make her remember. Ling suggested taking Zhang Yinyin back to Xixuan Mountains, hoping Master Ziyang and the others might know how to help.
Ji Ruochen readily agreed. Qing Yi, however, worried that Zhang Yinyin, having been expelled from Xixuan Sect and now not recognizing Ji Ruochen, wouldn't go with him. Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox ingeniously devised a plan: she told Zhang Yinyin that she needed to return to Xixuan Mountains to deliver a message to Master Ziyang from her, and since Ji Ruochen was also going, she should accompany him.
Despite Zhang Yinyin's initial reluctance to return to the place she had escaped, she could not disobey her master's directive. Ji Ruochen introduced himself as "Ji Ruochen, from a division under Xixuan Sect," apologizing for mistaking her for an "old friend." Although Zhang Yinyin accepted his apology, she still preferred not to travel with him.
Nevertheless, Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox insisted, with Ling and Qing Yi supporting her, praising Ji Ruochen's humor and kindness, assuring Zhang Yinyin the journey would not be boring. Ling and Qing Yi explained they could not accompany them as their "Dragon and Tiger Universal Cannon" needed repair using a specific magic tool found only in the Endless Sea. Though Zhang Yinyin found them all peculiar, she eventually conceded and set out with Ji Ruochen.
As they journeyed towards Xixuan Mountains, Zhang Yinyin questioned Ji Ruochen's name, playfully calling him "Ruo Ji" (weak chicken). Ji Ruochen shared that a close friend, who was independent, ambitious, honest, and cute, once said the same, and that he had "lost" her. Zhang Yinyin realized Ji Ruochen had initially mistaken her for this lost friend.
Soon, they heard commotion about "The Best Chicken in the World" and joined the crowd, only to find the highly sought-after delicacy was sold out. Ji Ruochen, noticing Zhang Yinyin's disappointment, devised a clever trick. He snuck into a wealthy household, where he disguised his voice and made their God of Wealth statue "speak," demanding chicken.
The awestruck family, believing their deity had manifested, frantically gathered all the finest chicken dishes, including roast chicken, crispy roast three-yellow chicken, fried chicken liver, fried chicken pops, and caterpillar fungus soup. Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin then enjoyed their feast on the rooftop, laughing at the family's excited scramble. Zhang Yinyin, impressed, remarked on Ji Ruochen's ingenuity, noting how unusual such a clever scheme was for his typically serious demeanor.
Ji Ruochen, in return, claimed he had learned it from her. Over a shared drink, Zhang Yinyin declared Ji Ruochen her "bro," yet still advised him to discard his fake Chiying Sword, asserting that a Xixuan disciple shouldn't carry a counterfeit. When Ji Ruochen asked how she knew it was fake, she simply stated the real one had already been given away.
Zhang Yinyin then directly asked Ji Ruochen if Qing Yi had arranged for him to take her back to Xixuan for treatment due to her memory loss. Ji Ruochen was surprised by her accurate guess. Zhang Yinyin expressed her concern about returning to Xixuan, as she no longer considered herself a disciple. Ji Ruochen tried to change the subject, offering her more food.
Zhang Yinyin observed his intimate knowledge of her preferences, noting he knew she preferred chicken wings over feet and didn't eat orange pith. When she pressed him, he revealed even more details: her morning routine, her dislike for bathing Evil-Repelling Beasts, her joy at winning exams, her favorite color (pink), and her favorite food (mung bean cake).
Again, he attributed this knowledge to Qing Yi, though Zhang Yinyin seemed to question if she had ever shared such specific details with Qing Yi. Zhang Yinyin then asked why Ji Ruochen always wore a "long face," prompting him to share his lingering sadness about his lost friend and his uncertainty if she would ever remember him. He told her his return to Xixuan was in hopes of seeing her again.
Zhang Yinyin encouraged him, quoting the adage, "where there's a will, there's a way," assuring him that if he was sincere, he would find her. They toasted once more. Meanwhile, away from their journey, discussions were underway regarding the Banished God, Yinfeng, and Fairy Gu, Gu Qing. It was revealed that if they were to launch an attack on Xixuan Sect, the Banished God and Fairy Gu would need to join their cause.
One individual, presumably Yinfeng's Master Uncle, complained that Yinfeng was solely focused on Gu Qing and helping her study the Book of Heaven, disregarding him. They believed that the Banished God and Fairy Gu had both fallen in love, which, while seemingly a positive development, made them "more like humans" with "many weaknesses," thus rendering them exploitable for a greater agenda. Later, the Crown Princess sought to meet with Yinfeng.
A messenger conveyed Yinfeng's adamant refusal, stating he had said all he needed to, and that matters between them were long settled. He explicitly forbade anyone from disturbing Fairy Gu's cultivation. Distraught, the Crown Princess entrusted the messenger with a letter, claiming it contained information vital to Yinfeng and Gu Qing's lives, warning that he would regret not reading it forever. However, upon receiving the letter, Yinfeng, without even opening it, simply ordered it to be burned.
Episode 21 Recap
Ji Ruochen was constantly looking after Zhang Yinyin on their journey. Although Zhang Yinyin was his senior, she found it strange that he consistently addressed her by her given name, Yinyin, rather than with the respectful "senior sister." She noticed his constant flattery and endless tenderness in his eyes, which she found puzzling. To avoid further awkwardness, she suggested they part ways.
Seeing that Zhang Yinyin was determined to leave, Ji Ruochen pretended to feel dizzy and have a headache, prompting her compassionate nature to assist him. Zhang Yinyin, being kind-hearted, could not abandon him, so the two continued their journey together toward Xixuan Mountains. Meanwhile, Ling, a knight, went to invite the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox to the Endless Sea.
Qing Yi was surprised and delighted to see that her Uncle, the Master of Endless Sea, had even sent his own boat to welcome Heavenly Fox. Heavenly Fox gazed into the distance, remarking that she had once years ago pleaded with that man to accompany him out to sea, only to be refused. She wondered what awaited her if she returned now.
Ultimately, Heavenly Fox declined to go to the Endless Sea, instead sending a message through Ling that the Lord of Endless Sea should seek her in Peace Hall in Xixuan Mountains when he truly understands. Ling then reported back to his Master that Heavenly Fox had left the Endless Sea, and the Master acknowledged that it was not yet the right time to meet. Upon arriving at Xixuan Mountains, Zhang Yinyin recognized every Xixuan disciple, except for Ji Ruochen.
Others found Zhang Yinyin's behavior baffling, thinking she was merely putting on an act. Ji Ruochen, however, was filled with sorrow, telling his fellow disciples that Zhang Yinyin was not pretending; she truly had forgotten him. Their senior brothers were dismayed to hear of the many hardships Zhang Yinyin and Ji Ruochen had endured during their recent monster-hunting expedition, especially the tragic death of Senior Yunfeng. They vowed to avenge their fallen brother.
Zhang Yinyin was heartbroken to see her father, who was temporarily unable to walk due to poisoning. Her mother comforted her, expressing relief that his life was not in danger and that sitting in a wheelchair was a fortunate outcome. Reflecting on her recent experiences, Zhang Yinyin told her mother about a peculiar Xixuan disciple she met during her trip down the mountain, who seemed to have been greatly helped by their family, as he was exceptionally attentive to her.
Zhang Yinyin's mother was startled to hear her daughter mention Ji Ruochen's name. After carefully checking on her daughter and finding no serious injuries, she inquired about where Yinyin had been. Upon hearing that her daughter had ventured into the Monster Forbidden Zone, Zhang Yinyin's mother felt a chill down her spine, suspecting her daughter had made a significant sacrifice for Ji Ruochen. Heartbroken, she urged Yinyin to rest.
Ji Ruochen sought out his master, Master Ziyang, hoping he could help Zhang Yinyin regain her memories. After hearing Zhang Yinyin's story, Master Ziyang surmised that she must have exchanged her memories to obtain Nuwa's tear, which was a pre-arranged transaction, thus rendering the memory loss incurable. Ji Ruochen was devastated. Master Ziyang then directed him to Peace Hall, noting that Heavenly Fox, who had escaped from the Hall after her demon chains were severed, had now returned.
In Peace Hall, Ji Ruochen confronted Heavenly Fox, confirming his Master's words. He drew his sword, accusing Heavenly Fox of meeting Zhang Yinyin and revealing the method to restore his cultivation, which should have led her to foresee the dire consequences. Heavenly Fox glared at Ji Ruochen, retorting that if he had not desperately sought to restore his cultivation, Zhang Yinyin would not have suffered such a heavy burden. She emphasized that it was his own fault.
Ji Ruochen, reeling from the accusation, stumbled away in despair. Heavenly Fox's words that day weighed heavily on Ji Ruochen's heart. He had once believed in shouldering the responsibility of maintaining peace in the Three Realms, but now he felt insignificant and realized it was better to protect those close to him. He cherished every day in Xixuan, feeling immense joy whenever he saw Zhang Yinyin.
Although Zhang Yinyin didn't fully recognize him, she gradually began to recall small details about him, even remembering a nickname he had once used, "Ji Xiaoer." This breakthrough filled Ji Ruochen with hope and he actively tried to help her regain her full memory of him. However, each time Zhang Yinyin's emotions stirred for Ji Ruochen, or she made an effort to remember him, she would suffer a splitting headache, and this time, it was particularly severe.
Ji Ruochen watched in horror as Zhang Yinyin writhed in pain, even hitting her head against a wall. He was distraught, unable to approach or help. Fortunately, Heavenly Fox arrived, using her true energy to stabilize Zhang Yinyin. She then reminded Ji Ruochen that no one could take back what the Lover-Eating Venerable exchanged, and since Ji Ruochen had already used Nuwa's tear, Zhang Yinyin was destined never to fall in love with him again.
Heavenly Fox emphasized that Ji Ruochen's pursuit of her memories was causing her immense suffering, urging him to cease his efforts if he truly loved her. Ji Ruochen then went to visit Hierarch Ziwei, who acknowledged Ji Ruochen's recovery. The Hierarch admitted that the Blue Fire within Ji Ruochen might offer a solution to Zhang Yinyin's predicament.
This unique flame, neither good nor evil, could save the people if used righteously, but could also transform him into a true demon if he succumbed to its negative influence. The Hierarch explained that the Blue Fire originated from Nine Hells, a forbidden place in the Three Realms where a tower, the Asura Tower, had been born from this very flame.
He further suggested that if Ji Ruochen could master this flame, he might undergo a spiritual transformation that could potentially lead Zhang Yinyin to remember him again. The Hierarch revealed that the tower was rapidly taking shape, and if it were to escape Nine Hells and enter the mortal realm, it would plunge the Three Realms into chaos and widespread suffering. He further disclosed that bringing Ji Ruochen to Xixuan Mountains was precisely to stop the Asura Tower from emerging, indicating that only Ji Ruochen possessed the power to destroy it.
Episode 22 Recap
Hierarch Ziwei told Ji Ruochen that he was the chosen one destined to help them overcome a great calamity. He explained that only by destroying the Asura Tower in the Nine Hells and the spiritual caves could the chaotic Ethereal Blue Flame return to its proper path, thereby restoring peace to the Three Realms. His master also revealed that this mission would allow Ji Ruochen to undergo a transformation and rekindle his relationship with Zhang Yinyin.
Ji Ruochen accepted this immense responsibility for the sake of the Three Realms and Zhang Yinyin, then asked for the method to destroy the tower. Hierarch Ziwei explained that ever since the Bamboo Snake appeared, the spiritual power of Heaven and Earth had become unstable. The recent stirring of the Earth's Veins signaled the emergence of the Asura Tower.
To prevent further chaos, all spiritual caves across the Divine Land had to be destroyed to thoroughly disrupt the flow of spiritual power, thus preventing disaster. According to a map given to him, the spiritual cave near the Zijin Palace of Sand Sea possessed the strongest spiritual power, making it the highest priority. Ji Ruochen expressed concern that destroying these spiritual caves, which were fundamental to world peace, would invite misunderstanding and hostility from mortals.
Hierarch Ziwei stressed that while it seemed an act against Heaven, the Asura Tower was a millennium-old secret of the Three Realms, and the truth could not be revealed before the mission's completion, no matter how wronged they felt. Hierarch Ziwei also warned him that Sun Guo, harboring personal grudges, was framing the Xixuan Sect for rebellion and was using imperial power to unite other sects against them.
Ji Ruochen's journey to the Sand Sea would be perilous, with no allies and countless enemies. Ji Ruochen, grateful to the Xixuan Sect, affirmed his resolve to destroy the spiritual caves as the one born to face this calamity. He then asked his master about his master's, Zhang's, and Jinhua's past, and about Luo Feng's death, but was told that Heaven's secrets could not be revealed.
Later, Ji Ruochen gathered his friends and announced he would begin closed-door cultivation in the Changyang Palace secret room to advance his skills, implying he wouldn't see them for a long time. He also mentioned that Zhang Yinyin’s memories were likely unrecoverable after her exchange of Nuwa's Tears with the Master of Emotion Devouring, as she would forget him again if she developed feelings for him. He entrusted Zhang Yinyin's care to his friends.
His friends, however, suspected his sudden closed-door cultivation was a ruse to go down the mountain on a secret mission from his master. Driven by curiosity, they secretly followed him using a Star Stone that one of them had placed on Ji Ruochen's Chiying Sword while he was drunk. After tracking him, they caught up and realized Hierarch Ziwei had entrusted him with the precious Chiying Sword, signifying the mission's gravity.
They decided to join him, hoping to contribute to the Xixuan Sect. When they met up, Ji Ruochen was dismayed to find Zhang Yinyin there, scolding his friends for not looking after her as he had requested, as he knew the mission was perilous. Zhang Yinyin, who usually received important assignments from her master, Master Ziyang, was upset that such a crucial mission was given to a "new disciple" (Ji Ruochen) instead of her.
Unaware of the true danger, she insisted on joining. After some playful banter and a failed attempt by his friends to keep her from joining, she used her Heavenly Fox Secret Technique to compel Ji Ruochen to reveal his destination: the Zijin Palace of Sand Sea. Her friends, seeing her determination and learning the destination, decided to follow, each hoping to prove themselves.
Meanwhile, Yinfeng, a Banished God, sought out Imperial Advisor Sun Guo, hoping to find a way to restore Gu Qing's immortal dharma-laksana. He first went to the Crown Princess Luo Xichen, who mocked his humility. Sun Guo then appeared and offered a solution: if Yinfeng helped him destroy the Xixuan Sect and establish Zhenwu Temple's rule, he would reveal the method.
Yinfeng stated his disinterest in mortal disputes, but Sun Guo introduced him to another immortal who explained that Gu Qing could ascend to the Ascending Platform with a Soul of Immortal Cloud, even without her dharma-laksana, thus fulfilling their destined reunion. The condition was for Yinfeng to fulfill his duty as a Banished God and kill Ji Ruochen, who was heading to destroy the spiritual cave near the Zijin Palace.
Yinfeng initially doubted this, believing he had already stripped Ji Ruochen of his cultivation. However, the immortal insisted it was Gu Qing's only chance, and revealed that their master could predict the spiritual caves' locations and Ji Ruochen's movements. Yinfeng reported back to Gu Qing about the Soul of Immortal Cloud, but Gu Qing expressed suspicion towards Sun Guo and Luo Xichen.
Yinfeng asserted that the spiritual caves' fate concerned the Three Realms, and even if not for her, he would step forward. Gu Qing remained skeptical about Ji Ruochen's restored cultivation and resolved to investigate herself. Elsewhere, Hierarch Jin Shan confronted Hierarch Ziwei, accusing the Xixuan Sect of planning to destroy the world's spiritual caves using the Shenzhou Energy Map and demanding to know the whereabouts of his disciple, Shang Qiushui.
Hierarch Ziwei justified his actions by stating they were following Heaven's will in the face of the Three Realms' great calamity. Hierarch Jin Shan, however, accused Hierarch Ziwei of self-preservation and disregarding common people to protect Xixuan's fortune and counter Sun Guo. Hierarch Jin Shan then severed ties between their two sects and declared Shang Qiushui no longer had any connection to Hierarch Ziwei. Simultaneously, Imperial Advisor Sun Guo traveled to Netherworld Mountain to meet Demon Emperor Yi Xuan.
Sun Guo deceitfully informed Yi Xuan that the Xixuan Sect had colluded with the Demon Clan of the Nine Hells and intended to destroy the spiritual cave in the Zijin Palace of Sand Sea, which was sacred to the Monster Clan. He emphasized the urgency, stating the Zijin Palace would appear on the full moon night. Enraged, Demon Emperor Yi Xuan ordered his monster soldiers to accompany him to the Sand Sea.
At the Zijin Palace of Sand Sea, Ji Ruochen's friends caught up to him. As they arrived, Zhang Yinyin began suffering from a painful demon toxin, which caused her whole body to ache and convulse, as it was the full moon night. Ji Ruochen, aware of her condition, gave her a Monster Subduing Stone bracelet, which instantly alleviated her pain, much to her surprise and curiosity about how he knew.
Their reunion was cut short by the arrival of Demon Emperor Yi Xuan and his army, who attacked them for intruding on their sacred land and intending to destroy the spiritual cave. As they fought, Ji Ruochen urged Zhang Yinyin and his friends to flee into the Zijin Palace. Zhang Yinyin initially resisted being "ordered" around but eventually followed him. They discovered the true entrance to the palace, realizing the previous one was merely an illusion.
Ji Ruochen's friends, including Shang Qiushui, Xuanzhen, and Senior Bingxian, courageously stayed behind to fend off the attackers, expressing their unwavering trust in Ji Ruochen's mission, even if it meant destroying everything. Yinfeng and Sun Guo's forces then arrived. The Xixuan disciples managed to trap them temporarily with a Deity Trapping Formation, specifically designed to counter immortal arts. However, due to the waning full moon, Yinfeng realized they would have to wait to enter the Zijin Palace.
During the struggle, Shang Qiushui was captured by Sun Guo's men, who intended to use him as bait to lure his companions. Xuanzhen and Senior Bingxian decided to retreat and plan a rescue rather than charge in recklessly. Yinfeng returned to Gu Qing, confirming Ji Ruochen had regained his cultivation and was indeed attempting to destroy the spiritual cave. He reported that Ji Ruochen and Demon Emperor Yi Xuan had fallen into the Zijin Palace, their fates unknown.
He then suggested to a shocked Gu Qing that if Ji Ruochen continued his path, they would have to fulfill their immortal duty and kill him. Back at Zhenwu Temple, Crown Princess Luo Xichen visited Gu Qing, mocking her for Yinfeng's perceived abandonment and Ji Ruochen's broken engagement, accusing Gu Qing of clinging to Yinfeng despite her fallen status.
Gu Qing retorted, reminding Luo Xichen that she herself was rejected by Yinfeng and married someone she didn't love, yet still lived. Enraged, Luo Xichen attacked Gu Qing. Gu Qing initially deflected Luo Xichen's poisoned needle, but Luo Xichen persisted with more vicious methods. Just then, Yinfeng arrived to intervene. He warned Luo Xichen, striking down her sword, that he spared her only because she had helped him find the method to restore Gu Qing's immortal dharma-laksana.
However, if she ever dared to harm Gu Qing again, he would show no mercy. Luo Xichen argued she acted out of love for Yinfeng, but he dismissed her, urging her to leave before he changed his mind. Gu Qing admitted she could have handled the situation herself, but Yinfeng insisted on being decisive to prevent further harassment. Inside the Zijin Palace, Ji Ruochen cared for Zhang Yinyin, who was still recovering.
He offered to carry her, playfully suggesting he might owe her from a past life. Suddenly, Demon Emperor Yi Xuan appeared, expressing frustration with Jia Geng and his subordinates for failing to locate the spiritual acupoint within the palace. He then noticed Ji Ruochen, remarking that the Shenzhou Energy Map's ownership might be changing hands. Just then, a Master from the Endless Sea arrived, recognized by Yi Xuan, who noted his unchanged temper and impatience.
Yi Xuan recalled their past conflict and how his clan had lost to "old man Ziwei" because of the Master's retreat. The Master from Endless Sea, whom Yi Xuan referred to as "uncle," demanded Ji Ruochen's release. Yi Xuan defiantly refused, prompting the Master to warn him not to force him into using violence.
Episode 23 Recap
Demon Emperor Yi Xuan adamantly refused to release Ji Ruochen, asserting his authority. However, the Endless Sea owner, a mysterious voice, scoffed at Yi Xuan's bravado, reminding him of their long-standing acquaintance and his reluctance to resort to force. The Endless Sea owner then turned to Ji Ruochen, questioning why he sought help when he possessed the means to free himself. Ji Ruochen, bound by spell-infused vines, realized the owner was suggesting he could utilize the Blue Fire within him.
As Ji Ruochen focused, the blue flames surged, melting away his restraints. Seeing Ji Ruochen was fine, the Endless Sea owner promptly disappeared. Enraged by Ji Ruochen's escape, Demon Emperor Yi Xuan pursued him, boasting that the power of the Sand Sea could counter even divine soldiers. Yet, as Ji Ruochen fully unleashed the Blue Fire, an ancient divine weapon, the Asura Spear, astonishingly recognized him as its master.
Stunned, Yi Xuan swore to kill Ji Ruochen despite his newfound power, prompting Ji Ruochen to flee with Zhang Yinyin. Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin found refuge with an Old God named Jia Geng, who claimed to have merely stumbled upon them while collecting herbs. Jia Geng immediately recognized Ji Ruochen's prowess, noting his acquisition of the Asura Spear. Ji Ruochen explained the spear had chosen him, crediting Jia Geng's swift wind for helping him escape the Demon Emperor.
Jia Geng revealed he had used his divine power to mask the area from the Demon Emperor. Ji Ruochen also noticed his injuries had miraculously healed, and Jia Geng explained it was due to their proximity to a spiritual cave within the Zijin Palace, a source of potent spiritual energy. While speaking, Jia Geng's son, Jia Xuan, a powerful spiritual tortoise who had cultivated for a thousand years, became agitated.
Jia Geng revealed that his son had been severely injured by Demon Emperor Yi Xuan after causing chaos in the Zijin Palace over a century ago, and he had been using the spiritual cave to heal him. Ji Ruochen then confessed their mission was to destroy the spiritual cave.
Jia Geng, while admitting he usually stayed out of the Three Realms' conflicts, implored them to wait until Jia Xuan’s wounds were fully healed, which were almost mended after over a hundred years of treatment. Moved by Jia Geng’s plea, Ji Ruochen agreed to wait. Jia Geng observed Zhang Yinyin, realizing she had exchanged her precious memories for Nuwa's tear to save Ji Ruochen.
Ji Ruochen was astonished by Jia Geng's insight and desperately asked if Zhang Yinyin's memory could be restored. Jia Geng stated that amnesia caused by Nuwa's tear was incurable and advised Ji Ruochen that his relationship with Zhang Yinyin, akin to a moon in a mirror or a flower in water, would only bring more pain if he clung to it.
He could, however, eliminate the demon poison that had recently resurfaced in Zhang Yinyin due to her spiritual power becoming chaotic after the Love Devouring Venerable took her memories, causing the Huanyao Root to reawaken. Jia Geng promised to create pills to suppress the Huanyao Root again. Suddenly, the spiritual power within the spiritual cave surged, causing Jia Xuan to lose control and rush towards it.
Despite Ji Ruochen's desperate attempts to stop him, Jia Xuan became increasingly frantic, compelling Ji Ruochen to make a difficult choice. Realizing the cave's dangerous influence on Jia Xuan, Ji Ruochen reluctantly used the Asura Spear to destroy it. With a thunderous collapse, the spiritual cave was gone. Jia Geng lamented Jia Xuan's fate, stating this outcome was "God's will," as his son's greed and eagerness for healing had led to his transformation.
Back in the Endless Sea, its owner, addressing Gu Qing as Qingyi, spoke of her impatience, referencing her visit to the Dragon and Tiger Universal Cannon, and dispatched Ling, Dragon Elephant, and White Tiger to protect her, explicitly instructing them not to interfere with the spiritual cave's destruction. Meanwhile, the Imperial Advisor, having been injured during the attempt to prevent the spiritual cave's destruction, became frantic upon learning of it.
He began manipulating Gu Qing by fabricating stories that Ji Ruochen had fully succumbed to the Nine Nether Blue Flames, becoming a demon who indiscriminately killed and was disrupting the Three Realms. Despite Gu Qing's initial disbelief, Yinfeng echoed the Imperial Advisor's claims, emphasizing their duty as members of the God Realm to eliminate demons. Reluctantly, Gu Qing agreed to confront Ji Ruochen.
The Imperial Advisor, in a private conversation, expressed his belief that Gu Qing's lingering affection for Ji Ruochen made her easily manipulated, but he planned to force her hand if she proved unable to act. In the aftermath of the spiritual cave's destruction, Jia Geng implored Ji Ruochen to accept Jia Xuan's soul, which had transformed into a Chaos Thunder Dragon, as his primordial weapon, giving his son a purpose.
Ji Ruochen agreed, transforming the dragon into a ring he wore. Jia Geng then revealed the spiritual cave's true nature: while it could heal, excessive absorption of its spiritual energy could corrupt one's mind, as it had Jia Xuan. He explained that Master Ziyang’s decision to destroy all spiritual caves was to prevent imbalances in the Three Realms' destiny. He hoped Ji Ruochen would destroy all the remaining spiritual caves in the world.
As the moon grew full, Jia Geng also shared a secret: on the night of a Seven-Star Combination and full moon, during a space-time dislocation, there might be a fleeting opportunity for individuals to experience a temporal reversal, which could potentially offer a turning point for Zhang Yinyin's memory, though he couldn’t guarantee its success. Soon after, Demon Emperor Yi Xuan, furious about the spiritual cave's destruction, led a massive hunt for Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin.
Ji Ruochen, now aided by the Chaos Thunder Dragon, managed to defeat the Demon Emperor, who then retreated, vowing to track them down. With the Demon Emperor defeated, Ji Ruochen found himself facing a new dilemma. Zhang Yinyin, due to her amnesia, repeatedly experienced the painful cycle of falling in love and forgetting him, and Ji Ruochen could no longer bear to see her suffer or expose her to further danger.
He decided to send her back to the Xixuan Mountains. However, Zhang Yinyin, known for her stubbornness, flatly refused to leave, asserting her place by her husband’s side. Ji Ruochen’s companions, including Zhang Yinyin, Xuanzhen, his wife, and Qiushui, also vehemently opposed his plan to go it alone, reminding him of past dangers where they had saved him and emphasizing that he could not complete the mission to destroy the spiritual caves on his own.
Ji Ruochen, frustrated, tried to intimidate them by boasting about his newly acquired primordial weapon and superior cultivation, claiming he could leave them anytime. Despite his arrogance, his friends remained defiant, frustrating him further. Seeing their unwavering resolve, Ji Ruochen conceded that if they truly weren't afraid of death and insisted on accompanying him, there might be another way forward.
Episode 24 Recap
First, Zhang Yinyin is frustrated, unable to defeat Ji Ruochen, who insists she return home while he proceeds alone. Fellow disciples share her frustration, even playfully suggesting tying him up and sending him on his way. Zhang Yinyin, finding the phrase "send him on his way" unsettling, learns from a disciple that there might be a way for her to join. She then asks Xuanzhen if she had known Junior Ji before, as his insistence on her leaving felt familiar.
Xuanzhen reveals that Ji Ruochen secretly likes her but is too timid to express it due to his seemingly ordinary appearance. He suggests Zhang Yinyin subtly hint at her own affection to make Ji Ruochen reconsider, but advises her to choose a more romantic setting than the present. Zhang Yinyin is eager to try. Ji Ruochen has made up his mind to go, unwilling to be persuaded. Xuanzhen notes that Ji Ruochen's preoccupation is with Zhang Yinyin remembering him.
Zhang Yinyin later approaches Ji Ruochen, telling him that sitting with him feels familiar and that when he tried to send her away, she claimed to experience a headache, with many images of him flashing through her mind, making her wonder if they had met before. Ji Ruochen, intrigued, asks if she remembers anything, though internally he suspects she might be feigning. Zhang Yinyin states she vaguely recalls something, feeling their relationship is unusual.
Ji Ruochen's internal thoughts reveal his fear: even if she were to fall for him again, she would inevitably forget him once more, and the deeper her affection, the more completely she would forget. Zhang Yinyin then requests to accompany him to destroy the spiritual cave, hoping the extended time together might trigger more memories. Ji Ruochen directly asks her who taught her to pretend.
She feigns hurt, accusing him of not believing or liking her, and asks if Qiushui or Xuanzhen put her up to it. He calls out for Xuanzhen and Qiushui, acknowledging their desire to help him but reiterating his decision. One of them criticizes him for being stubborn and warns him of acting like a hero to his death. Ji Ruochen then asks Senior Qiushui and Senior Xuanzhen to send Zhang Yinyin back.
Zhang Yinyin, refusing to beg, states she can go back herself. However, she then proposes that she will personally escort herself back to Xixuan Mountains if he agrees to take her "husbands" (the other disciples) with him, as they are not poisoned. Ji Ruochen accepts this condition, playfully referring to her as his "wifey." Zhang Yinyin playfully instructs her 'husbands' to take good care of Ji Ruochen.
Later, a disciple urges Ji Ruochen to speak with Zhang Yinyin before they part ways, but he declines, not wishing to upset her further. They then decide to head immediately for the nearest spiritual cave in the fortress. As they proceed towards the fortress, Ji Ruochen senses another presence. Zhang Yinyin reveals herself, having followed them and deciphered the map of spiritual cave locations.
She playfully insists Ji Ruochen call her "Senior," chiding him for his lack of manners, and demands to be taken along. Ji Ruochen, observing her persistence despite not even remembering his name, finds her endearing and agrees to her company.
Meanwhile, within the fortress, the Imperial Advisor instructs his disciples to set up the Tianxuan Altar Formation in the eight directions of the fortress and to prepare an ambush near the Drum Tower, declaring his intent to make it Ji Ruochen's grave. He confides that the sacrifices of the fortress's inhabitants are a small price for the greater good and that his actions have been concealed.
Ji Ruochen's group approaches the fortress, noting its unusual silence and the absence of guards, suspecting an ambush. They discover a powerful barrier. Qingyi identifies it as the Tianxuan Altar Formation from Zhenwu Temple, condemning the Imperial Advisor as sinister. Just then, Qingyi, Ling, Dragon Elephant, and White Tiger arrive, explaining that their uncle sent them because he anticipated danger. Qingyi passionately argues for Ling to help destroy the spiritual cave, given his high skill.
However, Ling states his master's strict instruction to only protect them and not interfere with the destruction of the spiritual cave. Zhang Yinyin and Qingyi try to persuade Ling to join, arguing that he doesn't always have to obey his master completely, which he partially concedes by saying he would "naturally offer help" if they were in danger. They finally convince Ling to somewhat disregard his master's orders. Inside the fortress, Ji Ruochen's group faces an ambush.
Ji Ruochen is struck by hidden weapons that are poisoned. Zhang Yinyin, who previously experienced a severe headache attempting to recall memories, is still unwell. Yinfeng and the Imperial Advisor are seen observing the situation. Yinfeng corners Qingyi, Dragon Elephant, and White Tiger, dismissing them as "little demons."
Qingyi fiercely confronts Yinfeng, accusing him of aiding evil and questioning his past actions, specifically identifying him as the one who killed the Bamboo Snake and further harmed Ji Ruochen after he was already severely wounded. Yinfeng, unmoved, declares his presence is solely to protect the spiritual cave, promising to release Qingyi once the Imperial Advisor captures Ji Ruochen.
Yinfeng, confident in the formation which was set up with his immortal power, assures Gu Qing that Ji Ruochen will not escape and the spiritual cave will be safe. Gu Qing, however, remains hesitant. She expresses her reluctance to believe Ji Ruochen is truly evil, recalling his past self-sacrifice in Haofang to eliminate demons despite knowing he might die.
She acknowledges her past resentment towards him due to personal reasons, but now, having recognized his identity and reconciled, she asserts that her former hatred has faded. Nevertheless, she declares she will not stand idly by if he indeed seeks to become a demon and destroy the spiritual cave. She hopes he was merely misguided, and states they will soon know his true nature once he is in the fortress.
While Ji Ruochen searches the fortress, snow begins to fall, and he picks up an umbrella, recalling that if Zhang Yinyin were to remember their past moment sheltering from rain, she might experience another headache. Zhang Yinyin, observing his strange behavior, finds Ling more reliable. Later, she reflects on Ji Ruochen, admitting he's "weird." She recalls trying to coax him in the "shabby temple" as advised, only for him to appear eager and ask what else she remembered.
This makes her question their true relationship and whether Xuanzhen's claim that he likes her is true. A senior advises her to let things happen naturally, drawing a parallel to her own experience with someone who pursued her without reciprocation. Seeking fresh air, Zhang Yinyin finds Ji Ruochen waiting outside. She directly asks if he likes her. He questions who told her, and she names Xuanzhen, noting her own recent observations support the idea.
He denies it, apologizing if his actions caused misunderstanding, promising it won't happen again. Zhang Yinyin, however, insists she clearly remembers something about "Tianxin Cave." He tries to dissuade her, citing her recent severe headaches. Despite his efforts, she insists on her memory of "Tianxin Cave," leading to another excruciating headache. Ling helps her inside to rest. A disciple suggests that if remembering Ji Ruochen causes such pain, he should stay away from her, and the problem would be solved.
After this, Ji Ruochen decides to leave Zhang Yinyin under Ling's care to search for the spiritual cave alone. Meanwhile, the Imperial Advisor, observing the unfolding events from above, informs Gu Qing that the "fish has taken the bait." Gu Qing, still wavering, requests more time to decide, stating that Ji Ruochen has done nothing wrong yet.
Episode 25 Recap
Imperial Advisor had established a formidable encirclement outside, but inside the barrier, Ji Ruochen discerned a critical secret from a peculiar light. Facing imminent danger and determined to protect Zhang Yinyin, he swiftly guided her into the Shenzhou Energy Map, promising to explain more later. Within the tranquil Shenzhou Energy Map, Zhang Yinyin observed a magnificent Seven-Star Combination and experienced a spatial-temporal dislocation. Memories of her past with Ji Ruochen flooded back, overwhelming her with emotion.
She recalled their shared moments, including when he gave her a bracelet made of Demon Subduing Stones, designed to soothe her by reversing demonic energy, and their time in Tianxin Cave, lit by luminous fluorite stones. She was heartbroken, realizing she had repeatedly forgotten him, the person she cherished most. As Ji Ruochen returned to her side, they embraced, both weeping with joy and sorrow.
A voice then explained that her memory loss was a recurring curse, designed to make her forget everything about him, only for her to meet him again and forget anew. As they were brought back to reality, Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin found themselves unable to recall the specifics of their time in the map. However, Ji Ruochen’s paramount concern was Zhang Yinyin’s well-being, determined to spare her from future headaches and the torment of forgotten memories.
He initially considered that maintaining distance from her might be the best solution to prevent her recurring pain, an idea strengthened by his observation of Ling's reliability and attentive care for Zhang Yinyin. Soon after, they found themselves trapped in a sealed tower by Imperial Advisor, absorbing poisonous air that threatened to kill them if they used their true spiritual power.
Ling, revealing his nature as a creation of his master from the Endless Sea, demonstrated his immunity to the poisonous air and proceeded to break the spiritual restriction, allowing them to escape. Meanwhile, Qing Yi and Bai Xiang found themselves bound by a divine chain. Gu Qing appeared, confronting Qing Yi about Ji Ruochen’s mission to destroy spiritual caves across the world.
Qing Yi, asserting her sole purpose was to rescue Ji Ruochen, claimed ignorance of any plan to destroy spiritual caves, firmly believing that neither Ji Ruochen nor Zhang Yinyin would commit evil. Gu Qing explained the severe consequences of destroying spiritual caves and the sinister nature of the Tianxuan Altar formation created by Imperial Advisor to protect them.
Qing Yi, along with her companion, cleverly convinced Gu Qing to release them, arguing they could persuade Ji Ruochen to abandon his path. Gu Qing, still hoping to deter Ji Ruochen, also revealed the location of the formation's weakest point, the "way out," located in a southern stone alley. After their escape, Qing Yi and her companions reunited with Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin, providing them with bodhi leaves from the Endless Sea to counter the poisonous fog.
Ji Ruochen, still burdened by the thought of Zhang Yinyin's suffering caused by his presence, had a private conversation with Ling. He expressed his desire for Ling to protect Zhang Yinyin, acknowledging Ling's powerful abilities and trustworthiness, despite Ling's confession that, as a creation, he did not fully comprehend human emotions. Ling, however, affirmed his commitment to protect Zhang Yinyin, particularly because Qing Yi regarded her as a sister.
Ji Ruochen then outlined his plan to destroy the spiritual cave, instructing Ling and Zhang Yinyin to wait outside the formation's way out and distract Sun Guo while he accomplished his mission. As Ji Ruochen proceeded towards the spiritual cave, Gu Qing intercepted him, once again attempting to dissuade him. Their argument escalated, with Gu Qing accusing Ji Ruochen of abandoning their arranged marriage and prioritizing Zhang Yinyin, suggesting Zhang Yinyin had deliberately interfered and pretended to forget.
Ji Ruochen vehemently defended Zhang Yinyin, revealing that her memory loss and headaches were a consequence of her sacrifice, using her memories to obtain Nuwa’s tear to save him from becoming useless. He stressed that her persistence in remembering him, despite the excruciating pain, was a testament to her profound love. Recognizing Gu Qing's persistent efforts to obstruct him, Ji Ruochen reluctantly incapacitated her to prevent her from further endangering herself or his mission.
Ling then approached Ji Ruochen, reflecting on human emotions. He acknowledged that while Ji Ruochen was the source of Zhang Yinyin's happiness, he was also the cause of her headaches, but concluded that Ji Ruochen was the only one truly capable of protecting her, urging him to go to her as she was waiting. Ling then explained his own path was with the Endless Sea, bidding Ji Ruochen farewell.
Reassured by Ling's words, Ji Ruochen found Zhang Yinyin, who was still perplexed by Gu Qing's earlier remarks about their supposed marriage. Ji Ruochen dismissed Gu Qing’s words as nonsense and, holding Zhang Yinyin tightly, promised never to leave her again, affirming their shared path forward. Zhang Yinyin readily agreed to stay by his side, and together they set off to find the spiritual cave.
Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin searched the fortress, ultimately locating the spiritual cave hidden by Sun Guo's magic at the bottom of the formation. As they prepared to destroy it, Yinfeng materialized, condemning Ji Ruochen for betraying his status as a banished god by siding with a villain like Sun Guo and using magic to conceal the formation's eye, not hesitating to sacrifice the entire village.
Ji Ruochen retorted that protecting the spiritual cave was paramount for the safety of the Three Realms, making the sacrifice of a small village insignificant in his eyes. Their confrontation quickly escalated into a fierce battle, with Ji Ruochen demonstrating superior power as he successfully destroyed the spiritual cave with fire. Outside, Ling and Qing Yi observed the destruction of the spiritual cave, confirming Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin’s success.
Meanwhile, Imperial Advisor and Yinfeng were enraged by their defeat, lamenting how Ji Ruochen had outmaneuvered them despite their elaborate plans. Elsewhere, Xuanzhen and Senior Bingxian found themselves battling Yinfeng, who unleashed divine flame upon them, attempting to force them to surrender and help him capture Ji Ruochen.
Episode 26 Recap
Xuanzhen was gravely injured by Ruoxichen, who inflicted persistent flames upon him. Though Master Yuxuan managed to clear most of the flames from his body, the ones on his face continuously reignited, causing him immense pain. Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin rushed to the scene after defeating their attackers, quickly taking Xuanzhen back to Xixuan Mountains for urgent treatment. Meanwhile, Yinfeng, still immersed in sadness over Gu Qing's lack of support, was with an accomplice.
His accomplice, the Banished Immortal, inquired if Feng (the Banished God) would discover they were responsible for killing the villagers, assuring Yinfeng he would not, claiming their actions were a form of help. They further conspired, anticipating a clash between Ji Ruochen and Ruoxichen's forces, believing Ji Ruochen would be caught in a devastating conflict.
At Xixuan Mountains, Master Yuxuan confirmed that while her Xuan Jade technique had removed most of the flames, the ones on Xuanzhen’s face were proving impossible to extinguish completely, requiring further remedies. Concerned disciples suggested finding a way to suppress the flames. Bingxian then suggested taking Xuanzhen to the Ice Cave, which was made of thousand-year-old cold jade, hoping it would help alleviate his suffering.
However, Xuanzhen, upon seeing his disfigured reflection, became inconsolable, lamenting his ruined appearance and future, fearing he would never marry or have children. Ji Ruochen comforted him, embracing him and promising to take him to the Ice Cave to aid his recovery, a sentiment echoed by Zhang Yinyin and Qiushui. Bingxian also reassured him, vowing to dedicate her life to finding a cure.
Senior Ziyun approached Master Ziyang, expressing deep concern about Ji Ruochen continuing his mission to destroy spiritual caves. He cited the recent loss of Yunfeng and Xuanzhen’s severe injuries, pointing out the mounting anger from other sects across the land. Other masters echoed his sentiments, suggesting they cease after having already destroyed two spiritual caves to avoid becoming enemies of the world.
However, Master Ziyang firmly stated that they must see the mission through to the end, as it was the Hierarch's will. Ji Ruochen, who had overheard the discussion, humbly presented himself before his masters, reassuring them that he was capable of handling the remaining challenges. He revealed that he had acquired the divine weapon Asura Spear and tamed the Chaotic Thunder Dragon, making him confident against any adversaries.
Master Ziyang, pleased with Ji Ruochen's determination, granted him two days of rest before he was to embark on his next journey, entrusting him with Xixuan's long-standing legacy. Xuanzhen continued to refuse any treatment, isolating himself in his despair. Bingxian tirelessly tried to persuade him to go to the Ice Cave, enduring his rejections and even offering to leave if her presence bothered him.
Zhang Yinyin then arrived, holding Master Ziyang's token, and declared it was the Hierarch’s explicit command for Xuanzhen to move to the Ice Cave for healing. Though still reluctant and skeptical that the Hierarch would involve himself in such a small matter, Xuanzhen finally relented when Zhang Yinyin threatened to punish herself by going to the harsh Tianxin Cave until he complied. Bingxian expressed her gratitude to Zhang Yinyin for her help.
Ji Ruochen prepared to proceed alone to destroy the final spiritual cave, explaining that significant challenges awaited Xixuan. He revealed that Master Ziyang had received news of Sun Guo gathering various sects to attack Xixuan, and the Demon Emperor of Netherworld was also furious over the destruction of the Sand Sea spiritual cave.
Ji Ruochen stressed that the other disciples must remain to protect Xixuan during the impending fierce battle, asserting his confidence in destroying the last spiritual cave by himself. Qiushui, concerned about Zhang Yinyin’s recurring memory loss, cautioned Ji Ruochen that if she developed feelings for him again and then forgot him, it would be detrimental to both of them. Ji Ruochen acknowledged this, stating he would need to find another solution.
However, Zhang Yinyin insisted on accompanying Ji Ruochen, reminding him that she knew the location of the last spiritual cave. She firmly declared that he could not leave her behind, even offering him half of her merits from the mission. Ling received orders from his Master to return to the Endless Sea. He instructed Qing Yi to stay and protect herself, then bade farewell to Zhang Yinyin.
Zhang Yinyin tried to convince Ling to stay and help them fight the Imperial Advisor, even suggesting he disregard his Master’s commands. Ling, however, explained his unwavering loyalty to his Master and the Endless Sea, emphasizing that he could not betray his lifelong pursuit. Despite his evident concern for Zhang Yinyin, Ling departed, leaving her frustrated by his adherence to orders.
Meanwhile, two artificers expressed their gratitude to Master Ziyang for the Kunlun Golden Sand, promising to forge powerful Dragon and Tiger Universal Cannons for Xixuan. Master Ziyang spoke of Ji Ruochen’s destiny, emphasizing that bearing great responsibilities has always meant facing immense challenges. Bingxian escorted Xuanzhen to the Ice Cave. He remained despondent, and the idle chatter of other disciples about his disfigurement only deepened his gloom, making Bingxian worry about his resilience.
Elsewhere, Zhang Yinyin visited the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox. Her memory loss seemed to grant her a carefree demeanor as she recounted many stories, particularly about Ji Ruochen, whom she found quite interesting. The Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox, observing Zhang Yinyin, asked for the name of the junior disciple she spoke of, which Zhang Yinyin struggled to recall, expressing her frustration at always forgetting it.
Ji Ruochen prepared for the perilous journey to the Qingyuan Holy Land to destroy the final spiritual cave. He confided in Qing Yi, revealing his plan to make Zhang Yinyin forget him and the spiritual cave mission again, asking Qing Yi to send her back to Xixuan Mountains. He explained that he couldn't bear to see her suffer the pain of memory recovery anymore. Qing Yi became visibly upset by this request, feeling conflicted about acting as "the bad guy."
Zhang Yinyin noticed Qing Yi’s distress and questioned Ji Ruochen about his harshness. Qing Yi, prompted by Ji Ruochen's hidden agenda, asked Zhang Yinyin if she liked Ji Ruochen. Zhang Yinyin, feigning anger, denied liking him but then immediately forbade Qing Yi from liking him. Qing Yi, in turn, pointed out Zhang Yinyin’s inconsistency, questioning why she would object if she herself claimed not to like Ji Ruochen.
Zhang Yinyin admitted her complicated feelings but insisted she wanted to see him every day. Zhang Yinyin confronted Ji Ruochen about his persistent attempts to leave her behind. Ji Ruochen, with a look of concern, questioned why she consistently forgot his name while remembering others, revealing that previous instances of her severe headaches were caused by remembering him.
He prompted her to recall specific moments, showing her a bracelet and asking her to remember where she had seen it before, specifically at a wedding. Despite her initial strong resistance and mounting pain, Ji Ruochen pressed her, urging her to remember. Overwhelmed by the flood of memories, Zhang Yinyin endured a painful flashback and finally recovered her lost memories.
Episode 27 Recap
Zhang Yinyin, recalling the bracelet, finally recognizes Ji Ruochen as the person she deeply cares for, lamenting how she often forgot him despite their shared journey. She is overwhelmed with pain, and Ji Ruochen, noticing her discomfort and nosebleed, takes it upon himself to venture alone to locate the spiritual cave, hoping to spare her further suffering. Qing Yi stays with Zhang Yinyin, observing a significant decline in her memory.
Zhang Yinyin now struggles to recall not only their experiences with Ji Ruochen but also the reason they came to the Ice Cave and the details of Li Xuanzhen's injury by the immortal flame, which Yuxuan Zhenren had temporarily suppressed. Qing Yi worries that Ji Ruochen faces grave danger alone. One night, Zhang Yinyin is jolted awake by a nightmare.
She recounts a dream where a person she deeply cherished moved forward relentlessly, heedless of her pleas, while she remained trapped, unable to offer aid. Qing Yi, recognizing this as Zhang Yinyin's subconscious concern for Ji Ruochen, suggests they go to Qingyuan Holy Land to assist her junior, Ji Ruochen, who is tasked by their sect with destroying the final spiritual cave. Zhang Yinyin, upon hearing Ji Ruochen is alone, immediately agrees and prepares to depart.
On their way, Qing Yi discovers Dragon Elephant and White Tiger, injured and shaken. White Tiger urges them to quickly go to Ji Ruochen's aid, revealing that Yinfeng has gone to the spiritual cave. Zhang Yinyin rushes to Ji Ruochen's side, where he is engaged in a confrontation. Ji Ruochen, unfamiliar with the surroundings, finds himself at a disadvantage against Yinfeng, who had come fully prepared. Gu Qing tries to dissuade Ji Ruochen from falling into a demonic path.
However, in the ensuing chaos, Zhang Yinyin courageously interposes herself to protect Ji Ruochen and is tragically impaled by Gu Qing's sword. Gu Qing is horrified, having only intended to cripple Ji Ruochen's cultivation to prevent his descent into darkness, unaware that Yinfeng had secretly imbued her sword with a powerful enchantment.
As Ji Ruochen desperately cradles the mortally wounded Zhang Yinyin, she utters a final plea, asking who he is to her, before they both fall into a seemingly bottomless black hole. Qing Yi watches in horror, devastated and blaming herself for failing to keep her promise to Ji Ruochen to protect Zhang Yinyin. Despite the conflict, the spiritual cave remains unharmed, protected by Yinfeng.
The Imperial Advisor, fulfilling his promise, grants Yinfeng the Soul of Immortal Cloud, meant to help Gu Qing restore her immortal dharma-laksana and ascend to the Immortal Realm. The mysterious owner of the Soul of Immortal Cloud warns Yinfeng that it will be useless if Gu Qing retains any mortal attachments.
The Imperial Advisor believes Yinfeng obtained the Soul of Immortal Cloud too easily, but the owner hints at a deeper plan, suggesting Yinfeng will eventually return to him for further assistance. Gu Qing, learning that Yinfeng secretly enchanted her sword to kill Ji Ruochen, is repulsed. She confronts Yinfeng, asserting that she had mastered the Book of Heaven's sixth volume and could have purged Ji Ruochen's demonic flames, allowing him to repent and be protected by Xixuan.
She accuses Yinfeng of orchestrating Ji Ruochen's death for his own selfish reasons. Gu Qing questions the morality of such "gods," perceiving them as no different from demons, and firmly refuses to return to an Immortal Realm built upon such deceit. She confesses her weariness and dismisses Yinfeng, despite his assurances of unwavering support. Meanwhile, the news of Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin's deaths deeply grieves the Xixuan Sect.
Disciples, including Jingxiao, Xinglan, and Xuanbing, gather to mourn at their cenotaphs, vowing vengeance against those responsible. Qing Yi, wracked with guilt, confesses to bringing Zhang Yinyin to Ji Ruochen. Xinglan consoles her, emphasizing Ji Ruochen's genuine affection for Zhang Yinyin. Simultaneously, Sun Guo has gathered powerful allies to launch an assault on Xixuan Mountain, and the Demon Emperor is also mobilizing forces, anticipating a widespread conflict.
Gu Qing, despondent, refuses to resume her cultivation, believing her lost dharma-laksana renders her no different from a mortal. Yinfeng desperately tries to persuade her, reminding her of their hundred lifetimes of trials and the Soul of Immortal Cloud he secured for her to restore her dharma-laksana. Gu Qing, however, doubts her ability to sever all mortal attachments. Yinfeng urges her to try, believing Ji Ruochen's death has already cut her ties.
Gu Qing agrees to make an attempt only if Yinfeng accompanies her back to Wuding River, implying that only there can she truly find release. Yinfeng attempts to restore her dharma-laksana, but Gu Qing's vision of Ji Ruochen quickly vanishes, proving the Soul of Immortal Cloud ineffective. She laments that with Ji Ruochen gone, the pursuit of Tao has lost all meaning. At the Endless Sea, the Master senses the escalating turmoil across the Three Realms.
He expresses his profound sorrow not just for Ji Ruochen, but for the impending chaos that will engulf the world, fearing that even his ancient realm, which he has guarded for millennia, may soon be threatened by the inevitable tide of conflict.
Episode 28 Recap
Ji Ruochen awoke to find himself in an unfamiliar place, quickly learning from a young man named Yu Tong that they were in Nine Hells Qiyou City. Ji Ruochen immediately asked about Zhang Yinyin. Yu Tong explained that a badly injured female fox spirit, matching her description and with several tails, had been taken to a stone house by the sea by the High Priest's people.
Ji Ruochen pleaded with Yu Tong to take him there, despite Yu Tong's initial reluctance due to his duty to find the City Lord for matters. Ji Ruochen soon discovered that all his mortal magic was useless in this new realm. Upon arriving at the stone house, Ji Ruochen found Zhang Yinyin.
She stirred, calling his name and recalling all her past memories, including their time at the Desert Inn, fighting the Bamboo Snake, and her sacrifice in the Monster Forbidden Zone where she exchanged her memories for Nuwa's Tears. As Ji Ruochen attended to her, a powerful blue light, which Ji Ruochen called "Blue Flames," manifested from him. The High Priest of Qiyou City, present at the scene, immediately recognized these as "Divine Flames," recorded in the Code of Qiyou City.
Overjoyed, he knelt, begging Ji Ruochen to use this power to save the citizens of Qiyou City. Ji Ruochen, however, was solely focused on Zhang Yinyin's recovery, heartbroken that his Blue Flames could save himself but not her. During their time in Qiyou City, Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin finally found peace. Since mortal magic had no sway here, Zhang Yinyin's memories remained stable, allowing them to enjoy a serene life together.
Yu Tong revealed to Zhang Yinyin that her amnesia, induced by the Emotion-Devouring Venerable, was completely ineffective in the Nine Hells, leading her to express a desire to stay there forever. One day, Ji Ruochen proposed to Zhang Yinyin, presenting his "body" as his only betrothal gift and promising to always obey her. Their wedding was a joyful occasion, attended by many, as they completed the traditional bows to heaven, earth, and each other, finally becoming husband and wife.
However, their happiness was short-lived. Soon after their marriage, Zhang Yinyin's condition worsened, prompting Ji Ruochen to rush her back to their room. Yu Tong then revealed a harsh truth: the High Priest had deceived them. The juice of Baijiu Trees, which the High Priest claimed would dissolve the immortal energy in Zhang Yinyin's body, had no such effect.
Yu Tong, who had eavesdropped on the High Priest and the Grand Priest, explained that Zhang Yinyin's immortal energy had already damaged her vital organs, putting her life in constant danger. He had been caught for listening but managed to escape to warn them. The High Priest, fearing his deception would be fully exposed, then explained his true motives.
He spoke of a colossal tower that had emerged from the depths of the Nine Hells tens of millions of years ago. This tower inexplicably rose and periodically unleashed devastating Demon Flames, destroying parts of the city and causing chaos among various cities, which were subsequently consumed, leaving Qiyou City as the last remaining settlement.
The High Priest explained that the Code of Qiyou City foretold that the Divine Flames, which had once grown where the tower now stood, were destined to conquer it. When the Divine Flames reappeared, it would be the time to destroy the tower, and only Ji Ruochen, bearing the Divine Flames, could accomplish this. Ji Ruochen recalled his former master, Ziwei Zhenren, who had once told him about the Shura Tower.
Ziwei Zhenren had described it as a mysterious entity, neither wholly good nor evil, that drew its existence from the Blue Flames. He had prophesied that only by destroying the tower could the Blue Flames return to their rightful path. Ji Ruochen, hoping to find a cure for Zhang Yinyin, questioned the High Priest if mastering the Blue Flames by destroying the tower would allow him to heal her.
Zhang Yinyin, who had woken up and joined their conversation, firmly disagreed. She reminded Ji Ruochen that Yu Tong had already told her about the tower and the many people from Qiyou City who had attempted to destroy it, none of whom ever returned.
She pleaded with him not to risk his life, reminding him of his wedding promise to always listen to her, and of their shared dreams for a peaceful life, planting vegetables and raising chickens in their yard. She stated emphatically that she did not want him to venture into danger for her. Ji Ruochen, unable to argue further, reluctantly agreed to her wishes.
Meanwhile, in a parallel development, the Imperial Advisor, believing Ji Ruochen was doomed, had rallied various sects to attack the Xixuan Sect. The Xixuan Mountains were heavily guarded, with their formidable Wuya Formation reinforced, as outside forces relentlessly tried to breach their defenses. Mr. Wang Chen of Wugou Manor, renowned for his knowledge of formations, was confident in breaking the Xixuan's Wuya Formation, instructing his disciple Wuhua to lead the assault.
Sun Guo's forces successfully initiated the attack, causing cracks to appear in the Xixuan Wuya Formation. During this siege, Yinfeng arrived. When confronted by the Imperial Advisor, Yinfeng clarified that his presence was not to aid in the attack on the Xixuan Sect, but to meet the mysterious individual from the Zhenwu Temple Underground Palace. He sought another way to help Gu Qing regain her immortal dharma-laksana, as the Soul of Immortal Cloud had proven ineffective.
The Imperial Advisor, eager for Yinfeng's formidable assistance, subtly coerced him by questioning his commitment to maintaining peace in the Three Realms if he only pursued Ji Ruochen but ignored the Xixuan Sect, which was accused of destroying spiritual caves. Though displeased by the manipulation, Yinfeng eventually agreed to help. Gu Qing then appeared, scolding Yinfeng for compromising with those who exploited "justice of the world" for their own selfish desires.
Simultaneously, Ziwei Zhenren, the master of a concerned disciple, deliberated on the Xixuan conflict. His disciple vehemently argued that the Xixuan Sect's actions regarding the spiritual caves were not for selfish gain, and that their disciples exhibited integrity, urging Ziwei Zhenren to intervene and help Xixuan. Ziwei Zhenren, though admitting his own confusion about Xixuan's motives, refused to actively aid them, stating they deserved their current predicament.
Frustrated by his master's perceived inability to distinguish right from wrong, the disciple declared her intention to return to Xixuan Mountains. However, Ziwei Zhenren, fearing for her safety, confined her to the Yunzhong Residence, preventing her from leaving.
Episode 29 Recap
Ji Ruochen, determined to save Zhang Yinyin, resolved to enter the Demon Tower, as only its blue flames could remove the immortal power from her body. Meanwhile, a group of young Xixuan disciples, frustrated by their Hierarch's defensive stance, secretly convened.
A Senior Sister among them proposed they defy orders, go down the mountain, and launch a sneak attack, a plan met with enthusiastic agreement from the other disciples, who planned to meet at the mountain gate that night to utterly defeat their enemies. Elsewhere, Qingyi urged Yinfeng to reconsider his support for Sun Guo, fearing he would regret it.
Yinfeng, believing he was helping Sun Guo eliminate the "scoundrel who destroyed the spiritual caves" for the sake of the world, questioned why he would regret his actions. Qingyi then led him to witness Sun Guo and his allies. There, Sun Guo and other Hierarchs openly discussed destroying Xixuan and seizing its immense treasures, even contemplating sparing only female disciples while ensuring no male disciples remained.
A man identified as Mr. Wangchen declared his sole intention was to dismember his senior brother. Qingyi pointed out to Yinfeng that these individuals were driven by "their own purposes and evil intentions," and their claims of acting for the world were merely "excuses." Sun Guo later noted Qingyi and Yinfeng's departure but reassured Hierarch Xuxuan that he had a "perfect plan" and that his cultivated immortal arts were sufficient to overcome Xixuan's Wuya Formation and its formidable elders.
Ji Ruochen entered the Demon Tower alone, where he was greeted by a voice that revealed itself to be his father, the Nine Hells Demon King who once ruled the Nine Hells. His father explained that only they possessed the unique Blue Fire of the Nine Hells.
He then recounted how, ten million years ago, High Immortal Taiyi had exploited the Immortal Emperor's seclusion to invade the Nine Hells, arbitrarily reactivating spiritual caves that caused spiritual energy to surge in the mortal world and plunged the Nine Hells into chaos.
Taiyi's ultimate goal was to rule the Three Realms, and he built the Demon Tower on the ruins of the Nine Hells King's Ruin, intending it to merge with the Spiritual Realm Tower above the Immortal Realm, allowing him to monopolize all spiritual energy. Ji Ruochen realized his Master had painstakingly sent him to destroy this very tower.
His father revealed that Ji Ruochen was born with the Blue Fire of the Nine Hells, the only power capable of suppressing the spiritual energy of the holy realm. When Taiyi pursued his severely injured father, he entrusted infant Ji Ruochen to the "Double Saints" (Old Zhang and Huaniang) to hide in the mortal world. They had calculated that ten million years later, Taiyi would be entangled in a calamity, identifying it as the opportune moment for the tower's destruction.
To prepare, his father activated a "hidden star" in Ji Ruochen's fate, causing him to sleep for ten million years until the Double Saints awakened him twenty years prior and raised him as an ordinary human. Before his death, his father sealed his own spirit in the throne, awaiting Ji Ruochen's return.
As the tower began to sense the Blue Fire and near destruction, his father urged Ji Ruochen to fully cultivate the Blue Fire of the Nine Hells, warning that failure would trap him forever within the tower or cause him to turn to ashes if consumed by hatred.
His father's fading spirit gave Ji Ruochen a final push, affirming him as the "true person destined to face the calamity" and the only one whose Blue Fire could defeat High Immortal Taiyi. Inside the Demon Tower, in what was a mirror image of the true underground palace, Zhang Yinyin called out for Ruochen.
A voice, revealed to be the tower itself, taunted her, explaining that Ji Ruochen was in the true underground palace, while she was in its mirror image, rendering her cries inaudible. Yinyin was subsequently ensnared, as the tower's voice expressed a desire for her to experience the profound pain of separation, rather than a swift death, as revenge for its own suffering.
Ji Ruochen, deep in cultivation, battled his inner demon, being guided to let the Blue Fire of the Nine Hells devour him and then make it his own, all while resisting hatred. Seeing a wooden bird he had given Yinyin, Ji Ruochen's resolve solidified, and he gained control of the Blue Fire of the Nine Hells. His father's spirit reappeared, reminding him of his mission to save the Three Realms and destroy the tower.
The tower then directly addressed Ji Ruochen, offering him a choice. It claimed that with his newly mastered Blue Fire, he could break the Nine Hells seal and return to the mortal world. However, destroying the tower would result in a "lose-lose situation," trapping him within its confines.
The tower questioned the worth of sacrificing himself for what it called "righteousness," implying that Ziyang had merely used him as a pawn and had not informed him his mission would be a one-way trip. The tower, admitting its fear of destruction, nevertheless insisted it was speaking for Ji Ruochen's own good, reminding him he was now the "strongest existence in the cultivation world" and should not be manipulated.
It then revealed Zhang Yinyin was also inside, implying her death if the tower were destroyed. It urged Ji Ruochen, now the "Demon King," to leave with Yinyin and enjoy the "supreme power" of his absolute strength. Contemplating his identity as a pawn, Ji Ruochen declared it was "time to end all of this" and defiantly stated he would no longer listen to anyone. He then carried the unconscious Zhang Yinyin out of the Demon Tower.
After Ji Ruochen's departure, Sun Guo led the 36 sects in besieging Xixuan, aided by 100,000 demon generals from the Netherworld Mountain Demon Emperor. Senior Shi Ji bravely resisted Sun Guo's forces but was gravely wounded by his magical artifacts. Meanwhile, at Yun Zhong Ju, the master was informed of Xixuan's dire situation, with Senior Shi Ji frantically trying to rescue Qiushui. The master initially distanced Yun Zhong Ju from Xixuan's fate.
However, observing a monstrous fish that had absorbed immense spiritual energy, he noted the anomaly: despite spiritual caves being destroyed, spiritual energy was increasing. Suspecting Ziyang was hiding something crucial, the Yun Zhong Ju master decided to go to Xixuan, not to relieve the siege, but to demand a clear explanation, instructing his disciple to gather enough people for a safe retreat if necessary. In the Endless Sea, Qingyi worried about her friends in Xixuan.
She attempted to bribe the Netherworld Mountain Demon Emperor with coral, having previously used a smaller piece to find Ji Ruochen and Yinyin. Her master reprimanded her for using sect resources for bribery, but Qingyi argued that helping Xixuan was better than standing idly by, especially since she believed Ji Ruochen and Yinyin were already dead. Ling interjected, asserting the principle of "if lips are gone, teeth are cold," meaning if Xixuan fell, the Endless Sea would also be vulnerable.
Convinced, the Endless Sea master commanded Qingyi and Ling to prevent any of the Demon Emperor's forces from entering Xixuan Mountain. Later, Ji Ruochen informed a waking Zhang Yinyin that he had used the blue flame to remove her immortal power, and her wounds were healing, though recovery would take several days.
Yinyin, surprised by his altered appearance, learned that he had met his father, the Nine Hells Demon King, and had inherited his bloodline, thus becoming the "born Demon King." Yinyin playfully embraced his new identity, reminding him he was still hers, even as a demon. Ji Ruochen suggested they live there, where they were, forever, and when Yinyin asked about the Demon Tower, puzzled it wasn't destroyed, Ji Ruochen simply replied, "Why should I destroy it?"
Episode 30 Recap
Ji Ruochen, with the Demon King totem now visible on his forehead after successfully cultivating the Blue Flames of Nine Hells, still hesitated to destroy the Demon Tower, finding enjoyment in his new power. Zhang Yinyin, noticing his indecision, urged him to open the Shenzhou Energy Map to check on Xixuan's situation. To her dismay, the map revealed that Sun Guo had besieged Xixuan Mountains. Desperate to return and save her parents, Zhang Yinyin pleaded with Ji Ruochen.
Ji Ruochen explained the dire consequences of leaving the Nine Hells: the permanent closure of the passageway to the mortal world, which would prevent him from ever returning and cause Zhang Yinyin to forget him forever. Despite his reluctance for her to leave or lose her memory of him, Zhang Yinyin insisted on returning, emphasizing her duty to her parents, master, and fellow disciples, fearing their massacre.
Moved by her tearful plea, Ji Ruochen agreed to accompany her, vowing to protect Xixuan. He also shared his intention to return to the Endless Sea soon to find a way to suppress Nuwa's Tears, ensuring nothing could separate them. Upon their return to the mortal realm, the passageway from Nine Hells closed permanently as Ji Ruochen had warned, and Zhang Yinyin's memory of him vanished.
They encountered Ji Tianxia, who was overjoyed to see Ji Ruochen alive, believing that as the "chosen one" and "heir to the tribulation," Ji Ruochen could not have died when the Three Realms faced such turmoil. Ji Tianxia, recognizing Ji Ruochen as the Demon King, immediately inquired if the Demon Tower had been destroyed. Ji Ruochen stated he had merely entered and exited, not viewing its destruction as his destined mission.
Ji Tianxia lamented that the peace of the Three Realms was now at risk, explaining that only the Blue Flames of Nine Hells could resolve the Demon Tower's disaster. Ji Ruochen countered, stating that a chess piece, once it becomes the player, would no longer be manipulated.
Ji Tianxia then informed him of the dire situation at Xixuan, where Sun Guo had allied with 36 sects, and the Demon Emperor of the Netherworld had mobilized 100,000 demon soldiers to join the siege. Hearing this, Zhang Yinyin rushed off to save her family and sect. Meanwhile, Gu Qing attempted to persuade Yinfeng to intervene and relieve Xixuan. Yinfeng, however, refused to involve himself in mortal disputes, dismissing the conflict as mere "killing each other."
Despite Gu Qing's earnest pleas, Yinfeng remained unmoved. Gu Qing expressed her despair, acknowledging that her sword was already "covered with blood" from past failures, blaming Yinfeng's distraction for their repeated setbacks. She accused Yinfeng of being the one unable to let go, despite her own sleepless efforts to restore his immortal dharma-laksana. In a moment of frustration, Gu Qing shattered a bluestone pendant, signaling a complete severance of their ties. Yinfeng was left in shock and deep regret.
At the Wuya barrier, the Netherworld Army and forces from Wugou Manor, along with other allied sects, were preparing for a decisive assault on Xixuan Mountains. An Imperial Advisor announced the arrival of 100,000 demon soldiers at the mountain's base, confident in their impending victory. Zhang Yinyin, along with Ling, Qing Yi, Dragon Elephant, and White Tiger from the Endless Sea, arrived at the scene.
Ji Ruochen suggested attempting diplomacy with the Demon Emperor, but Zhang Yinyin dismissed the idea, preferring to capture the leader. She quietly prepared to infiltrate the Demon Emperor's camp. The demon forces soon discovered them and quickly surrounded the group from Endless Sea. The Demon Emperor's allies warned the Endless Sea group to stay out of Xixuan's conflict, offering them rewards if they joined the attack.
Ling recalled his uncle's strict instruction not to let any demons into Xixuan, and Qing Yi expressed excitement for a large-scale battle. Ji Ruochen bravely confronted the Demon Emperor, who mocked him, believing Ji Ruochen had died in Lingxu. The Demon Emperor attacked Ji Ruochen with a knife, but a burst of Blue Flames of Nine Hells erupted from Ji Ruochen's body, protecting him and instantly healing his wound.
Ji Ruochen retaliated with a powerful strike that left the Demon Emperor in agony, struggling to breathe. Now recognized as the Demon King, Ji Ruochen informed the Demon Emperor that his forces were no match for him and urged him to retreat, to avoid being manipulated by Sun Guo and to preserve his position.
Ji Ruochen reminded the Demon Emperor of the past massacre on Tianxing Mountain, where the Netherworld demons were trapped by so-called righteous sects, suffering heavy losses until the Demon Emperor sacrificed thousands of years of cultivation to save them. He then revealed that 21 of the 36 sects currently allied with Sun Guo in besieging Xixuan were involved in that very massacre.
Ji Ruochen challenged the Demon Emperor to explain how he could ally with his "old enemies" and face his fallen demon generals. He asserted that the Demon Emperor was merely acting on personal vendetta and taking advantage of the chaos, arguing that the honorable demon clan should not collude with a "despicable person" like Sun Guo. He warned that if Xixuan's innocence were eventually proven, the Netherworld would bear the same shame as Sun Guo, leaving a lasting infamy.
Convinced by Ji Ruochen's words, the Demon Emperor ordered his troops to retreat. Ling, Qing Yi, Dragon Elephant, and White Tiger celebrated the retreat of the demon army. However, Sun Guo, enraged by Ji Ruochen's unexpected survival and his success in both persuading the Demon Emperor to withdraw and rescuing Senior Sister Bingxian, furiously declared his intent to raze Xixuan to the ground. The Wuya barrier finally shattered, and Sun Guo led the 36 allied sects up Xixuan Mountain.
Ling headed to the front gate, while Zhang Yinyin, along with others, advanced towards the main hall. A member from Zhenwu Temple offered wine to Qingxu's forces, who were allied with Sun Guo. Senior Bingxian appeared, having returned to rescue someone. She acknowledged the need to buy time against the overwhelming enemy. Ji Ruochen joined the fray, reassuring them that as the "banished god" and "heir to the tribulation," Xixuan would endure as long as he was there.
Despite being outnumbered, the Xixuan disciples rallied, vowing to defend their sect to the death, engaging in fierce combat. Meanwhile, some of Sun Guo's allies, fearing heavy losses, began to retreat. Within the strange, maze-like forest of Xixuan, a figure calling himself "Death Reaper" from Xixuan Sect emerged. He confronted an old, cruel pervert who utilized "Fivefold clones" and the "Bowing and Nodding Technique."
The Death Reaper accused this old pervert of betraying their master and mistreating their junior, Yuchan, leading to her death. The Death Reaper, having mastered the Bowing and Nodding Technique to a profound level, avenged Yuchan, stating that the pervert's evil deeds would seal his fate.
Episode 31 Recap
As various factions gathered for a confrontation, Ziyang, the acting hierarch of Xixuan Sect, emerged, pleading for the safety of his disciples. He offered to surrender all the cherished artifacts of Xixuan. However, the Imperial Advisor scoffed, accusing Xixuan Sect of destroying spiritual caves and bringing this calamity upon themselves. Sun Guo declared his intent to kill Ziyang and seize the treasures regardless. Just as the situation escalated, Zhang Yinyin arrived, much to Ziyang's relief.
Ziyang noted that Sun Guo and his allies claimed to wield divine arts, suggesting powerful backing. Sun Guo boasted of his Universal Cannon, claiming it could destroy everything. Realizing the danger, Ziyang urged Zhang Yinyin and her friends to flee. As Sun Guo ordered an attack, Ji Ruochen suddenly appeared, startling everyone who believed him dead. He immediately intervened, displaying his numerous magical artifacts, which injured those who coveted them.
He then unleashed Nine Hells Blue Flames, incinerating Ruoxi, one of their prominent foes, causing the remaining allied forces to flee in terror. Xixuan achieved a bloodless victory, and rumors spread throughout the martial world that Xixuan was now under Ji Ruochen's formidable protection, deterring future aggressors. Ji Ruochen addressed Ziyang as Master. The Imperial Advisor, accusing Xixuan of colluding with both monster and demon clans, demanded their destruction.
Ji Ruochen then challenged them, asking if they still desired treasures or wished to fight. He revealed a "treasure," a map displaying new spiritual caves, surprising everyone given the recent destruction of others. Ji Ruochen explained that while he might give them the map if he were pleased, their attack on his "wife's sect," bullying, and attempts to kill her had displeased him, ensuring no one would be happy.
When pressed about his "wife," Ji Ruochen declared Zhang Yinyin, the chief disciple of the Taixuan Palace, to be his spouse, a claim Zhang Yinyin quickly and vehemently denied. Ji Ruochen then advised their enemies to retreat while they still lived. The Imperial Advisor, boasting of his 100,000-strong Netherworld army, was swiftly informed by Ji Ruochen that the entire force had already been driven back by him and his "wife."
Realizing they had been misled by Sun Guo, many of the allied forces grew uneasy. Ji Ruochen then singled out the Imperial Advisor, refusing to let him leave. He vowed to settle scores for the Imperial Advisor's greed and the death of Senior Yunfeng. As Ji Ruochen prepared to act, the Imperial Advisor's allies, terrified, fled, calling Ji Ruochen a demon.
Ji Ruochen then affectionately urged Zhang Yinyin, whom he called "wife," to stop chasing the fleeing enemies, warning her not to get hurt. Zhang Yinyin, however, sternly rebuked him, denying she was his wife and warning him not to speak nonsense, stating she would not forgive him even for saving Xixuan. Following the confrontation, the Demon Sovereign of Nethermountain, who had been injured by Ji Ruochen's Nine Hells Blue Flames, retreated to his mountain for healing.
Zhang Yinyin, disguised as a humble disciple, infiltrated his ranks. She cleverly deduced that the Hierarch's wounds were poisoned by Huang Xinglan's potent and fragrant Jianyou San, a toxin that had already seeped into his bones. Revealing her true six-tailed form—a power she claimed was a direct result of his past actions against her—Zhang Yinyin assassinated the Demon Sovereign, avenging her father. Nethermountain's demon forces immediately swarmed her for revenge. Outnumbered and exhausted, Zhang Yinyin found herself in peril.
Just then, Ji Ruochen arrived, incinerating the surrounding demon forces with his Nine Hells Blue Flames, saving her from certain death. Later, Ziyang inquired if Ji Ruochen, now addressed as the Demon King, had visited the Nine Hells. Ji Ruochen confirmed he had, and confirmed Ziyang's unstated question about the Demon Tower. He acknowledged that Ji Tianxia had also inquired about it and left disappointed.
Ziyang hinted that Ziwei Zhenren had misjudged Ji Ruochen, emphasizing that destroying the Demon Tower would also greatly benefit their cultivation. Ji Ruochen retorted that they shouldn't have placed all their hopes on him, adding that after his near-death experience, he now understood right from wrong, unlike before when he blindly obeyed orders.
He questioned the value of their "justice" if it meant sacrificing allies like Xuanzhen, Qiushui, Senior Bingxian, Zhang Yinyin, and the other fighting disciples, especially after Senior Yunfeng's death, implying they would have been abandoned had he not returned. Ziyang insisted that sacrifice was necessary for the greater good and that Ji Ruochen's return was essential for Xixuan's survival.
Ji Ruochen, now a demon, stated he had no intention of destroying the tower and questioned what purpose his forced return served their grand ideals. Finally, Ji Ruochen declared this to be the last time he would call Ziyang "Master," effectively severing their master-disciple bond. Meanwhile, Shang Qiushui sought out Ji Ruochen, reporting that he and Huang Xinglan failed to stop Xuxuan, a cultivator from Qingxu Sect, from escaping.
This led Zhang Yinyin, with her fiery temper, to pursue Xuxuan for revenge. Qiushui also mentioned that Hierarch Jinshan had unexpectedly changed his stance, costing them dearly and benefiting Zhenwu Temple. Concurrently, Hierarch Jinshan of Yun Zhong Ju, who had previously aided Xixuan, discussed the broader situation with Ziyang. Ziyang expressed gratitude but noted the long-standing rift between their sects since Ziyang insisted on destroying the spiritual caves.
Hierarch Jinshan acknowledged his past misjudgment and the significant risks Yun Zhong Ju took to aid Xixuan, implying he now understood the greater stakes. Ziyang pressed him for the true reason behind destroying the spiritual caves. Hierarch Jinshan revealed that it was Ziwei Zhenren's strategy before his seclusion—a desperate measure because abundant spiritual energy, while vital for cultivators, also empowered the impending birth of the Demon Tower. He admitted it was too late to prevent the tower's emergence.
Hierarch Jinshan confirmed that Ji Ruochen was indeed the fated "calamity person," though his identity as a banished god was always ambiguous, and he had now become a Demon King. Ziyang lamented that despite Ji Ruochen saving Xixuan, he refused to destroy the Demon Tower, thwarting their elaborate plans and even disowning Ziyang as his master. Hierarch Jinshan remarked that all their meticulous planning had ultimately been in vain.
Accepting the inevitable Three Realms calamity, they resolved to pool their collective strength and confront the Demon Tower when it fully emerged. Hierarch Jinshan then proposed a condition for Yun Zhong Ju's full commitment: Shang Qiushui, despite being a Xixuan disciple, should become the next hierarch of Yun Zhong Ju, asserting that Qiushui's marriage to Shi Ji made him a rightful Yun Zhong Ju disciple.
He further enticed Ziyang by promising that Yun Zhong Ju would not demand Xixuan's secret techniques; instead, they would teach Qiushui all of Yun Zhong Ju's own secrets, a deal Ziyang readily accepted as greatly benefiting Xixuan. Elsewhere, Gu Qing was about to cultivate the Seven Secret Volumes of the Book of Heaven, despite Yinfeng's previous presence at Qingxu and subsequent departure with her.
Yinfeng warned her of the dire consequences, stating it would lead to madness and death in the mortal realm. Gu Qing dismissed his concerns, implying her choice was unrelated to Ji Ruochen. Yinfeng persisted, expressing his unwillingness to see her destroy herself. He declared that Ji Ruochen, having been demonized by the Nine Hells Blue Flames, was now an enemy of the Three Realms and that he would fight to the death if Ji Ruochen sought revenge.
Gu Qing accused Yinfeng of having already lost his mind before even beginning cultivation. Yinfeng then revealed that the ultimate secret of the Seven Secret Volumes was the ability to transfer his immortal dharma-laksana to Gu Qing, a selfless act he had hoped would allow them to be together. Meanwhile, the Hierarch of Qingxu Sect was wounded. Zhang Yinyin, having pursued him for revenge, once again used a disguise to approach him.
She cleverly deduced that he had been poisoned by Huang Xinglan's Jianyou San, noting the distinctive fragrance and that the poison had seeped into his bones. Discarding her disguise and revealing her six-tailed form, Zhang Yinyin, having previously declared this power a direct result of his actions against her, struck him down, taking her revenge. Qingxu's forces immediately surrounded her, attempting to avenge their Hierarch. Outnumbered and exhausted, Zhang Yinyin found herself in peril.
Just then, Ji Ruochen arrived, apologizing for his delay. Seeing Zhang Yinyin's success, he urged her to rest, then unleashed the Nine Hells Blue Flames, incinerating the surrounding Qingxu forces. He vowed to turn Qingxu into scorched earth and ensure all wrongdoers faced their just desserts. As Ji Ruochen continued his devastating assault on Qingxu, Gu Qing appeared, confronting him.
She accused him of being demonized and beyond salvation, warning that if he continued to slaughter innocents, she would kill him again. Ji Ruochen calmly stated that his debt to her had been paid during the Qingyuan Holy Land incident and warned her not to interfere unless she wished to join his list of victims.
Suddenly, another figure, likely the Hierarch of Zhenwu Temple, stepped forward, admitting that he had secretly infused Gu Qing's Zhan Yuan Sword with divine power, intending for it to be the means of Ji Ruochen's demise. He challenged Ji Ruochen to direct his vengeance solely at him, a challenge Ji Ruochen readily accepted.
Episode 32 Recap
In a climactic confrontation, as Ji Ruochen prepared to strike, Yinfeng suddenly appeared, intercepting the blow meant for Qing. Severely wounded, Yinfeng knew he was no match for Ji Ruochen. In his final moments, he transferred his immortal dharma-laksana to Qing, apologizing that he could not return to the God Realm with her.
Yinfeng, who had protected Qing for ninety-nine lifetimes, expressed that he had no regrets in this life and urged her to forget everything in this current existence upon her return to the Wuding River. Devastated by Yinfeng's sacrifice, Qing confronted Ji Ruochen, asking if he was done killing and to take her life, wishing she could turn back time to never fall in love with him again.
Ji Ruochen, with his eyes blazing blue, was seemingly consumed by a demonic transformation. Zhang Yinyin intervened, grabbing Ji Ruochen's arm and imploring him to stop. She reminded him that despite Qing's past actions, Qing had once saved her life, and Yun Zhong Ju had also saved her father. Zhang Yinyin asserted that Ji Ruochen, the one she knew, would not bully the weak or disregard right from wrong.
Ji Ruochen retorted that the person she knew was not his true self, stating that deities and demons walk different paths and that they should never meet again. Zhang Yinyin then collapsed, severely injured, and Ji Ruochen carried her away. Ji Ruochen brought a severely injured Zhang Yinyin to a secluded place she recognized as where she and Senior Yunfeng once hid from Zhenwu Temple.
She recalled hiding there with Yunfeng but questioned if anyone else was with them, to which Ji Ruochen confirmed it was him. Ji Ruochen used his powers to heal her, though Zhang Yinyin wished he had taken her back to Master Yuxuan in Xixuan. She admitted feeling a strange familiarity with Ji Ruochen, speculating it might be due to her memory loss from a past demonic poison, and asked him to tell her if he remembered anything.
Ji Ruochen gently covered her, expressing that remembering the past would cause her immense pain, far worse than any poison, and that his only wish was for her safety and for him to be able to see her whenever he desired. With Yinfeng severely wounded and his fate uncertain, Qing cradled him and vowed never to see Ji Ruochen again.
Later, still holding Yinfeng's immortal dharma-laksana, Qing conversed with someone who questioned if she truly wished to remain in the mortal world, having spent lifetimes yearning to return to the God Realm. Qing explained that her true desire was for Yinfeng to return to the God Realm, and for her, returning no longer held importance.
She argued that having experienced a century of "wrong destiny," they had both become more like mortals, with human emotions, and questioned the value of eternal life without such feelings. Though urged to reconsider, Qing adamantly refused to abandon her current existence, determined to remain in the mortal realm. Meanwhile, Li Xuanzhen, Master Ziyun's last disciple from Xuanming Palace, found himself tied up by a mysterious, disfigured masked figure.
The masked man taunted Li Xuanzhen, claiming to have saved his life and criticizing him for turning his back, comparing him to his own master. Li Xuanzhen tried to flatter his captor, offering to kowtow and call him "Master" in hopes of being released, but the masked man beat him, demanding the kowtow he promised. Li Xuanzhen bemoaned his situation, stating he would have preferred to be slapped to death by someone named Wangchen rather than endure this.
The masked man then declared his intention to take Li Xuanzhen as his disciple, mockingly calling him "Uglier." Though Li Xuanzhen initially refused, the masked man revealed himself as the ultimate secret of the Xixuan Sect and offered to teach Li Xuanzhen the Bowing and Nodding Technique, promising he would become as strong as him and take his place as the sect's ultimate secret.
Li Xuanzhen agreed, but only on three conditions: he would not betray his original master and sect, the masked man would no longer insult anyone from Xixuan, and he would stop calling him "Uglier." The masked man accepted the terms, though he continued to humorously demand that Li Xuanzhen kowtow or at least call him "Master." Sun Guo reported to Hades that Ji Ruochen, now the Demon King, had single-handedly ruined his plan to conquer Xixuan.
Hades, undeterred, declared that Ji Ruochen's return to the mortal world was a good thing, allowing him to sink into "love" while Hades solidified his grand plan, after which both the Demon King and Xixuan would be mere dust. When Sun Guo expressed fear of Ji Ruochen's vengeance, Hades promised to help him destroy the Xixuan Sect and kill Ji Ruochen once he became the strongest being in the world, fulfilling Sun Guo's wish to lead the world's greatest sect.
To ensure Sun Guo's continued loyalty, Hades bestowed upon him a Soul of Immortal Cloud, the very same item Qing sought to use to return to the God Realm, guaranteeing Sun Guo's immortality. The Qingxu Sect mourned their sect leader and vowed blood revenge against Xixuan and Ji Ruochen for the deaths of their leader and disciples. A new leader emerged, promising to restore the sect's strength.
He revealed that a Banished Immortal had decided to remain with them instead of returning to the God Realm, and he intended to persuade this immortal to surrender the Seven Scrolls of Heavenly Books. With these scriptures, the Qingxu disciples would learn immortal arts, confident in their ability to defeat Ji Ruochen and surpass the Xixuan Sect.
When Zhang Yinyin later descended from her resting place, Ji Ruochen confronted her about her recklessness in seeking revenge against the Qingxu Sect alone. Zhang Yinyin countered that her Heavenly Fox Secret Technique had advanced, enabling her to protect herself, but Ji Ruochen pointed out her current injuries.
She insisted he couldn't stop her from avenging her parents and questioned his right to command her, reminding him of a past promise never to be angry with her, which Ji Ruochen dismissed as a fabricated memory. He then offered to tell her their shared past, which Zhang Yinyin accepted, believing him despite not remembering any of it, due to the unique nature of the events.
Ji Ruochen admitted his sadness over her memory loss but emphasized his greater fear that remembering would bring her suffering. He confessed that even when he could have taken her to Xixuan Mountains, his first instinct was always to bring her to this place filled with their shared, unforgettable memories. When Zhang Yinyin questioned if their life would always be like this, Ji Ruochen suggested seeking out Master Iceberg, who had erased her memories, believing she could also restore them.
Zhang Yinyin was hesitant, fearing Master Iceberg would refuse since Nuwa's Tear, which her memories were exchanged for, had already been used. Ji Ruochen assured her he had his own plan, stating that her memories, though useless to Master Iceberg, were invaluable to them, and he would do anything to get them back. He also stressed that his control over the Three Realms was meaningless without her.
Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin arrived at Sky Mending Cliff to meet Master Iceberg. Zhang Yinyin recognized the place, having been there before. Master Iceberg, acknowledging Ji Ruochen's arrogance, stated that Nuwa's Tears were irreversible and reminded them of their original agreement. Ji Ruochen pleaded with her to reverse the effects of Nuwa's Tears, offering any price, including his cultivation, though Master Iceberg playfully dismissed the notion.
She then reiterated her refusal, stating that Zhang Yinyin had willingly exchanged her memories. Ji Ruochen then threatened to destroy Sky Mending Cliff, believing that without its foundation, the Nuwa's Tear would dissipate and Zhang Yinyin's memories would return. Master Iceberg warned him against such an act, stating she regretted ever using Nuwa's Tear to save Zhang Yinyin if it meant Ji Ruochen would become a demon and turn against her.
Zhang Yinyin tried to intervene, admitting her fault in breaking the promise but emphasizing the value of her memories to Ji Ruochen. Ji Ruochen then theorized that since the spiritual caves were destroyed, the Monster Forbidden Zone, which Master Iceberg controlled, must be sustained by something else, possibly the willpower of those whose memories Master Iceberg took.
Master Iceberg denied his theory, stating that anything affecting the Three Realms, as shown on the Shenzhou Energy Map, must be true spiritual power, which her Monster Forbidden Zone lacked. She then challenged him, suggesting he destroy the place to see if Zhang Yinyin's memories would indeed recover if his theory was true. Master Iceberg then revealed that her Monster Forbidden Zone was sustained by the Endless Sea, which was formed from the tears of countless sorrowful people.
To dissipate the zone and restore memories, the Endless Sea would need to be drained, an act she warned would cause chaos in the Three Realms and require defying fate. Recognizing this as the solution, Ji Ruochen immediately departed for the Endless Sea, despite Master Iceberg's final warning that she would not forgive him if he dared to destroy her forbidden zone. Upon his arrival at the Endless Sea, Qingyi and numerous disciples immediately tried to block his path.
Qingyi and another disciple entreated Ji Ruochen to reconsider, highlighting the beauty and treasures of the Endless Sea, which Qingyi considered her home, and reminding him that she and her uncle treated him and Zhang Yinyin as family. Ji Ruochen calmly stated that this act was inevitable and they could not stop him. He proposed that he and Zhang Yinyin would open an inn outside the town, and Qingyi could join them, acknowledging that otherwise, Qingyi would lose her home.
Despite warnings from the Master of Endless Sea's disciples, who declared that intruders would be killed, the Master of Endless Sea then appeared and invited Ji Ruochen in. Ji Ruochen addressed him, expressing his long-standing knowledge of him. The Master of Endless Sea ordered his disciples to stand down, admitting they were no match for the Demon King, though one disciple vowed to protect his home and uncle regardless. The Master of Endless Sea then asked Ji Ruochen his true identity, hinting at a deeper, unrevealed connection between them.
Episode 33 Recap
Ji Ruochen stood among the Honghuang Guards protecting the Endless Sea. He accurately revealed the sea's profound secret, explaining that it was refined from the memories and tears of lovers by the Master of Sentient Beings, possessing extraordinary spiritual power that had suppressed the Demon Tower for millennia. Ji Ruochen further asserted that the Endless Sea Master had controlled his life from the beginning, and even Zhang Wancai and Jinhua were connected to this celestial entity.
The Endless Sea Master affirmed Ji Ruochen's suspicions, admitting that he had even provided the cultivation manual Ji Ruochen had diligently studied as a waiter. Despite his meticulous planning, the Master had not anticipated Ji Ruochen's swift transformation into a Demon King. Ji Ruochen now possessed immense power, daring to challenge the Endless Sea Master. A fierce battle ensued. Ji Ruochen, wielding his newfound demonic strength, drained the Endless Sea.
Countless Honghuang Guards perished, and the Endless Sea Master was severely wounded. During the chaos, Ling, bravely defending the Endless Sea, was consumed by blue flames and turned into ashes. As he vanished, Ling desperately apologized and pleaded with Ji Ruochen to care for Zhang Yinyin. Zhang Yinyin watched in horror as Ling sacrificed himself for the Endless Sea, which was now reduced to scorched earth.
Overwhelmed by grief and self-reproach, despite having regained her memories, she felt that Ji Ruochen had become a stranger. Ji Ruochen approached her, apologizing for the destruction, but Zhang Yinyin was consumed by sorrow, lamenting that she no longer recognized the man she loved. As the Endless Sea Master departed, he warned Ji Ruochen not to regret his actions when the Demon Tower was finally unleashed.
Ji Ruochen, however, stated that his greatest regret was bringing Zhang Yinyin to the Monster Forbidden Zone, where she suffered to restore his cultivation by exchanging Nuwa's Tears. Two weapon masters, who previously served the Endless Sea, also bid farewell to the Master, deciding to seek new treasures in the South Sea, as their work on the Universal Cannon was halted by the destruction of the Endless Sea's vault.
The Master wished them well, stating that everyone should pursue their desires in life. Qingyi, a being created from the blood of an ancient Monster King, questioned why she survived when Ling and others perished. The Master explained her unique lineage, stating that her bloodline was different and she wouldn't disappear even if he did.
He then reaffirmed that he built the Endless Sea for peace, but with its destruction, he must now dedicate his life to protecting the Three Realms. Qingyi, however, insisted on following him, but the Master encouraged her to pursue her own desired life, before departing. Zhang Yinyin confronted Ji Ruochen, accusing him of becoming a merciless Demon King responsible for the impending chaos across the Three Realms.
Ji Ruochen retorted that he was tired of being burdened with the fate of the Three Realms, recalling his own perilous past where no one helped him. He credited his father's spirit, sealed within the throne in Nine Hells, for guiding him to become the Demon King, enabling him to finally resist being trampled upon. Zhang Yinyin, however, accused him of merely seeking to become the supreme ruler amidst the chaos.
Distraught, she proclaimed that she regretted ever knowing him or regaining her memories, then drew her sword and symbolically severed their ties. Ji Ruochen was left grappling with his actions and Zhang Yinyin's distraught departure, wondering what he had done. Meanwhile, Xuanzhen continued his training in the Bowing and Nodding Technique under his Master, though he initially lacked the necessary killer instinct. Seeing his disciple's stagnant progress, his Master abducted Senior Bingxian, knowing Xuanzhen's deep respect for her.
He challenged Xuanzhen to a duel, threatening Senior Bingxian's well-being. Driven by a desperate need to save her, Xuanzhen unleashed his full potential, proving his innate talent for the technique. In his final moments, the Master, severely weakened from a past battle with Wangchen that had cost him his cultivation and led him to learn this technique, transferred his true spiritual energy to Xuanzhen.
He then removed his mask and departed into the mountains, having fulfilled his purpose of cultivating a new guardian for the forbidden area. Xuanzhen gradually matured, understanding the heavy responsibility that now rested upon him as the guardian of the forbidden area. Senior Bingxian, initially distraught at Xuanzhen's seemingly forced decision, learned that he had willingly chosen this solitary path.
He explained that he felt more at ease in the forbidden area, away from the expectations of Xixuan Mountains, and vowed to protect Xixuan from the shadows. A flashback then showed their playful past, including an annual Xixuan exam where Senior Bingxian playfully asserted her authority over a younger, more mischievous Xuanzhen, who readily agreed to obey her as his senior disciple. Zhang Yinyin returned to Xixuan and revealed the truth of the Endless Sea's destruction.
Hierarch Ziwei's fears were confirmed, and she resolved to lead the immortals in a full-scale assault against the Demon King. Other Hierarchs expressed their apprehension, recalling Ji Ruochen's past heroism in defending Xixuan and questioning the morality of striking down their former disciple. Hierarch Ziwei recounted her previous private conversation with Ji Ruochen, where he declared their karmic ties severed, having repaid his debt to Xixuan.
Zhang Yinyin maintained that Ji Ruochen's actions, both in saving Xixuan and destroying the Endless Sea, were driven by his desire to restore her memories. However, she now condemned him for his bloodthirsty nature, declaring that she wanted nothing more to do with him.
Despite their past connection, the Hierarchs concluded that Ji Ruochen's path now threatened all Three Realms, and they had no choice but to confront him, even if it meant a desperate fight against an opponent who had bested the Endless Sea Master. Zhang Yinyin's Master later expressed concern for her, noting her changed demeanor.
Zhang Yinyin questioned if the Nine Nether Dark Flames truly changed Ji Ruochen, but her Master dismissed the idea that such monster arts, or even the Monster Cultivation Plant Zhang Yinyin herself had used, could fundamentally alter one's nature. This left open the possibility of a deeper, unknown reason for Ji Ruochen's transformation.
Episode 34 Recap
Having returned to Xixuan, Zhang Yinyin had been consumed by sorrow. She sought out her master, Su He, to share the turmoil in her heart regarding Ji Ruochen. Su He reassured her, believing that Ji Ruochen must have had a reason for burning the Endless Sea, and urged Yinyin not to dwell on it. Yinyin then pressed her master about her own past with the owner of the Endless Sea.
Su He recounted a tale from tens of millions of years ago, during the war between humans and monsters. She revealed that the two sides were evenly matched, but the Endless Sea owner mysteriously withdrew from the battle without explanation. Consumed by fury, Su He, already badly injured in the conflict, confronted him at the Endless Sea.
She questioned the consequences of his sudden departure from a critical war, but he remained steadfast, insisting he could not abandon his post, even if it meant guarding the place for thousands of years. He had merely advised her to seek Master Shiqing for her injuries. Su He confessed that she had carried that grudge for millions of years, regretting that she hadn't used Nuwa's Tears to forget him entirely.
Despite the unknown reasons behind Ji Ruochen's actions, Su He assured Yinyin that his feelings for her had never wavered, which was all that truly mattered, as Yinyin was more important to him than the world itself. Su He, having suffered similar romantic entanglement, urged Yinyin to reflect on her true feelings before making any decisions. Su He recognized the inescapable grip of love, common to both herself and Yinyin.
She regretted not using Nuwa's Tears to forget her past with the Endless Sea Master, believing that if she had, they could have lived an ordinary life and he would not have become a despised figure like the Demon King. Su He realized that with the Demon Tower threatening to descend and the Three Realms facing destruction, only Yinyin held the power to sway Ji Ruochen.
Deciding to act, Su He imparted her entire cultivation to Yinyin, empowering her to face the impending dangers. With this immense transfer of power, Zhang Yinyin transformed into a true Heavenly Fox. Su He, her mission fulfilled, bid Yinyin farewell, urging her to be strong and take care. Meanwhile, at the Qingxu Sect, the disciples commented on the sect's decline, yet Hierarch Xuwang insisted on a grand inauguration ceremony, openly speaking of reviving the sect.
Whispers circulated that Xuwang's cultivation was mediocre and the sect lacked gifted disciples, making his ambition seem like a mere bluff, akin to a monkey wearing a hat. Xuwang then summoned Gu Qing and Yinfeng, a banished immortal, to discuss their continued presence. He asserted that since they had chosen to stay, they should share the sect's fate and requested the seven scrolls of the Book of Heaven for Qingxu disciples to combat the impending doom.
Gu Qing retorted that he was simply coveting their sacred texts, while Xuwang justified his plea by citing Ji Ruochen's destructive acts against the Monster Forbidden Zone and the Endless Sea, which he claimed foreshadowed the Demon Tower's appearance. Gu Qing and Yinfeng firmly refused to hand over the Book of Heaven, stating they no longer wished to interfere in Ji Ruochen's affairs.
Xuwang, however, provoked them, reminding Yinfeng that Qingxu had saved his life when he was suppressed by Ji Ruochen, implying he should now repay the favor. Yinfeng scoffed at the notion, reminding Xuwang that he knew well why they had saved him and that even in his injured state, he was more than capable of handling Xuwang. As their argument escalated, Yinfeng declared they could no longer remain in Qingxu, but disciples, under Xuwang's order, prevented their departure.
Ji Ruochen arrived at Xixuan, seeking Zhang Yinyin, and was met by a determined line of disciples. He stated his sole purpose was to find his wife and expressed no desire to fight them. A Xixuan elder challenged him, demanding to know if he truly intended not to turn back from his destructive path, and threatened that he would not leave Xixuan if he chose to become their enemy.
Ji Ruochen reiterated his stance, affirming that he owed Xixuan nothing and would not remain subservient to them as the Demon King. When he demanded Yinyin's whereabouts, the elder declared she would not go with him and challenged him to a fight. Yinyin then arrived, and Ji Ruochen implored her to come with him, apologizing for his past wrongs and expressing his willingness to endure any punishment, as long as she stayed.
Yinyin, however, firmly stated that their connection had ended at the Endless Sea. Ji Ruochen countered by reminding her of their marriage in the Nine Hells, emphasizing that a husband and wife were inseparable. Yinyin, deeply rooted in Xixuan's principles of upholding justice, refused to accompany him, arguing he didn't even understand the true nature of his mistakes. As Ji Ruochen forcibly embraced Yinyin, the Xixuan elder, Xuanzhen, intervened, urging Ji Ruochen to turn back for Yinyin's sake.
Ji Ruochen refused and injured Xuanzhen. Seeing the severity of the situation, Senior Ziyang called for Hierarch Ziwei to emerge from seclusion and ordered the immediate re-deployment of the sect's protective formation. Meanwhile, at the Endless Sea, Qingyi worried as the intensifying flames threatened them. The Endless Sea Master, in despair, believed Su He would not come. Qingyi berated him for his past wrongdoings and self-pity, urging him to escape before they turned to ash.
Just then, Su He arrived, now clad in a serene blue, her past grievances gone. She mocked his earlier despair and questioned his diminished cultivation, to which he revealed he had transferred it to Yinyin. The master then joyfully discarded his mask, revealing himself to be Ji Tianxia, much to Qingyi's astonishment, as he was also the enigmatic Mr. Ji who had often aided Ji Ruochen.
Ji Tianxia confessed he had wandered the mortal world in disguise and was now finally free, even thanking the Demon King for his role in this liberation. Though Qingyi questioned if he hated Ji Ruochen for destroying the Endless Sea, Ji Tianxia simply stated it was destiny, but the crisis was far from over. Su He, however, questioned his intentions and doubted his ability to stop the calamity.
Ji Tianxia confirmed that he could do nothing but watch the destruction, as it was a fixed catastrophe, and only wished to gaze upon the Endless Sea one last time. Despite his bleak outlook, Ji Tianxia affirmed that he and Su He would never be separated again, no matter what he had to do next. Elsewhere, by the Wuding River, Gu Qing and Yinfeng shared a final, poignant moment.
Yinfeng, who had passed his immortal dharma-laksana to Gu Qing, now spent his days accompanying her, his greatest wish to remain by her side without regrets. Gu Qing reminisced about her ancient form as a green stone, observing sunsets and yearning for Yinfeng's visits every five hundred years. Yinfeng recalled their many encounters and how he had pondered what her stone form would eventually become.
Gu Qing expressed deep regret for having let him down and for the misguided fate they shared. Yinfeng, holding her hand, absolved her of blame, stating that he was at fault for failing to protect her, which led her to mistake Ji Ruochen for him. Gu Qing, however, insisted she was responsible for his loss of immortal dharma-laksana, preventing his return to the Immortal Realm.
Yinfeng revealed his longing for the Immortal Realm was only due to his desire to return with her, and that now, the memories of their countless lifetimes together were enough. Gu Qing, however, confessed she couldn't accompany him back to the Immortal Realm, stating she had no regrets after protecting him for ninety-nine lifetimes. Despite Yinfeng's desperate pleas to stop, Gu Qing declared she no longer wished to be indebted to him.
She expressed her weariness of the bitter love in the mortal world and her disinterest in seeking the great truth, only desiring to revert to an ignorant, insentient green stone. Overcome with grief, Yinfeng promised to fulfill her wish, vowing to take her back and allowing her to remain a green stone for as long as she wished. He also agreed that they both bore responsibility for the Demon Tower's emergence and should stop it before returning.
As Gu Qing faded away, Yinfeng mourned her transformation. A colossal tremor reverberated through the mortal world, alerting the heavens. The sudden surge of spiritual energy on Earth caused widespread panic among the immortals. Haoming, a high immortal, questioned why the spiritual caves were now thriving when they had been destroyed by the Xixuan Sect.
He ordered an immediate investigation by heavenly soldiers, instructing them to activate the Ascending Platform and send Yu Yun to the mortal world to ascertain the cause of the energy surge before reporting back. He cautioned all other immortals against acting rashly until the truth was uncovered, as the Heavenly Emperor was currently in seclusion. In the mortal realm, the Demon Tower dramatically rose, spewing intense flames, accompanied by frequent lightning and ominous black clouds.
As the bizarre phenomena signaled its full emergence, Ji Ruochen brought Zhang Yinyin to witness the spectacle. Panicked mortals fled Qiyu City as Ji Ruochen and Yinyin observed the towering structure. They encountered Qingyi and Ji Tianxia, the former master of the Endless Sea. Qingyi accused Ji Ruochen of coercing Yinyin, but he denied it, stating he had brought Yinyin to witness the rare sight.
Ji Ruochen then confronted Ji Tianxia, humorously asking whether to address him as "Mr. Ji" or "owner of Endless Sea," remarking on the destruction of his domain. He even offered an apology, acknowledging Yinyin's belief that he had wronged Ji Tianxia by destroying the Endless Sea. Ji Tianxia then revealed the existence of another tower in the wild fields of the Immortal Realm.
He explained that if the Demon Tower were to enter the Immortal Realm, its builder could unite the two towers, seizing all the spiritual power of the Three Realms and becoming its supreme lord, an opponent even the combined might of all the Immortal Realm's high-ranking figures could not defeat. Ji Ruochen speculated that this had been planned tens of millions of years ago when the tower was first built in the Nine Hells.
Ji Tianxia pressed him, wondering if he knew the builder's identity, but Ji Ruochen denied any direct knowledge. Ji Tianxia expressed his confusion at Ji Ruochen's calm demeanor, to which Ji Ruochen countered, noting Ji Tianxia's own composure. Ji Tianxia admitted he was not calm but rather helpless, and questioned Ji Ruochen if he regretted destroying the Endless Sea, which had inadvertently served the builder's agenda.
Ji Ruochen dismissed the notion, stating he had no regrets now that Yinyin had regained her memories. Ji Tianxia lamented his inability to prevent the unfolding calamity, resigned to watching the Endless Sea dry and the Demon Tower rise, recognizing it as a destined catastrophe beyond their control. He simply wished to gaze upon the Endless Sea one last time, acknowledging his millions of years of guardianship were ending.
Episode 35 Recap
Yinfeng solemnly pledged to Gu Qing that he would dedicate himself to saving all living beings, hoping that once everything was over, they could return to the Wuding River. Meanwhile, the Demon Tower began to relentlessly absorb the world's spiritual energy, threatening to deplete it entirely. Yinfeng realized the gravity of the situation and understood his responsibility as a banished god, resolving to find a way to destroy the tower.
Sun Guo appeared, proudly declaring that his master's plan had succeeded, and he would soon ascend to the God Realm, having been granted the Soul of Immortal Cloud. He revealed that the Demon Tower's emergence was their elaborate design, intended to follow Ji Ruochen's destruction of the spiritual caves. Yinfeng scoffed at Sun Guo's arrogance, finding it ridiculous that someone like him aspired to immortality, which only strengthened Yinfeng's resolve to protect the Three Realms.
At the same time, the Nine Hells Master emerged from seclusion, immediately asking for Ji Ruochen. Zhang Yinyin, seeing the Demon Tower, firmly declared her intention to destroy it. Ji Ruochen agreed to accompany her but asked her to wait briefly. In a surprisingly short time, the Demon Tower dramatically collapsed. Zhang Yinyin was stunned, while Yinfeng expressed his delight. Ji Ruochen revealed that he had never intended to simply destroy the tower immediately.
During his previous visit to the Nine Hells, when he uncovered the truth about his past, he had secretly planted a wisp of the Blue Fire of the Nine Hells inside the tower. He allowed the enemy to believe he had abandoned his intention to destroy it, creating a trap. The Blue Fire of the Nine Hells would naturally incinerate the tower at the opportune moment, thereby also exposing the true mastermind.
With the tower's destruction, spiritual energy surged back into the world, bringing a collective sigh of relief and temporarily stabilizing the Three Realms. The Nine Hells Master, recognizing the signature of the Blue Fire of the Nine Hells, worried about the mastermind seeking revenge on Ji Ruochen and resolved to secretly protect him. Soon after, the Ascending Platform manifested, accompanied by a long staircase.
Sun Guo eagerly approached the Heavenly generals, Hao Ming and Yu Yun, who had arrived to investigate the sudden surge of spiritual energy. Sun Guo falsely accused Ji Ruochen, the Demon King, of being responsible for destroying the spiritual caves and manipulating the Demon Tower's emergence, presenting the Blue Fire of the Nine Hells as "evidence." He then suggested that Yinfeng, due to his familiarity with Ji Ruochen, could assist them in capturing him.
Hao Ming and Yu Yun then asked Yinfeng, a Border Patrol God, to aid in apprehending Ji Ruochen. Yinfeng refused, stating he no longer wished to return to the God Realm or interfere in such matters. He then confronted the generals, explaining his newfound understanding: true righteousness is not defined by labels like "immortal" or "demon," but by one's intentions and actions, a lesson he had learned from Gu Qing.
He admitted his past errors in judgment, reflecting on how he had once used Gu Qing to harm Ji Ruochen, concluding that he himself was the one who had truly been "demonized." Infuriated by Yinfeng's defiance and his perceived "slandering" of the God Realm, Hao Ming accused Yinfeng of colluding with demons and ordered celestial soldiers to seize him for punishment, reminding him of his past exile for Bluestone God.
After a brief struggle, Yinfeng managed to break away, though injured, and quickly found Ji Ruochen, urging him to hide from the approaching Heavenly generals. Ji Ruochen questioned why a banished god would help him, a Demon King. Yinfeng reiterated his profound realization that he had been mistaken in his judgment, and then, with sorrow, revealed that Gu Qing had tragically transformed back into a bluestone.
Though deeply saddened by Gu Qing's fate, Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin put aside their grief, prioritizing the urgent need to confront and eliminate the true mastermind behind the chaos. Ji Ruochen then directly challenged Hao Ming and Yu Yun, demanding a legitimate reason for his capture, dismissing their baseless accusations. He declared his intention to ascend the Divine stairs and eliminate the "root of the chaos" in the Three Realms.
At this crucial moment, Taiyi, the High Immortal and true mastermind, finally appeared. Taiyi expressed regret for not having killed Ji Ruochen earlier. Ji Ruochen, however, recognized Taiyi as the architect of his family's demise and the destruction of the Nine Hells, and also the one behind the construction of the Demon Tower and the "flame face" he had encountered within it. Taiyi readily admitted his actions, acknowledging Ji Ruochen's intelligence in uncovering his secrets.
Sun Guo, underestimating the situation, foolishly tried to personally kill Ji Ruochen, only to be instantly struck down and killed by Taiyi, who saw him as an insignificant distraction. Taiyi then unleashed the Linglong Tower, a powerful artifact designed specifically to counteract the Blue Fire of the Nine Hells, aiming to suppress Ji Ruochen. Ji Ruochen initially found himself at a disadvantage against Taiyi's brutal attacks.
However, his master, Ziwei, emerged from seclusion, confirming his bond with Ji Ruochen and declaring his support. Soon after, other masters, including Xixuan and Ziyang, also arrived, chastising Taiyi for his ambition and asserting their commitment to fight alongside Ji Ruochen, whom they all considered their disciple. A fierce and devastating battle erupted as Ji Ruochen, empowered by his increased strength and united with his masters, engaged Taiyi.
Episode 36 (Ending) Recap
The Xixuan masters activated the Deity Sacrifice Formation, giving their lives to protect Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin within a barrier. Ji Ruochen cried out in anguish to his departing masters, who entrusted him with the grave responsibility of saving the world. Enraged by High Immortal Taiyi's ruthlessness, Ji Ruochen sought to unleash his Blue Fire of Nine Hells, a move Zhang Yinyin warned would risk his possession.
Despite her own severe injuries and fading demon spirit, Zhang Yinyin bravely confronted High Immortal Taiyi, vowing that she would not allow him to return to the God Realm to harm the mortal world. High Immortal Taiyi scoffed at her defiance. As Zhang Yinyin's life ebbed away, she insisted that Ji Ruochen prioritize defeating High Immortal Taiyi to prevent misery from engulfing the Three Realms, then forcefully transferred her demon core into him to boost his power.
Ji Ruochen desperately pleaded with her to hold on, but Zhang Yinyin whispered that she had no regrets in this life, a sentiment Ji Ruochen tearfully echoed. While Ji Ruochen cradled Zhang Yinyin, her spirit seemed to reassure him that she would always be with him. High Immortal Taiyi, frustrated that his millennia-long plan was being thwarted by the "Demon King and the fox demon," continued his assault.
Just then, Yinfeng arrived, intercepting High Immortal Taiyi and expressing his condolences to the grief-stricken Ji Ruochen. Consumed by hatred for the one who had taken his masters and Zhang Yinyin, Ji Ruochen gathered his immense power, secretly bolstered by Zhang Yinyin's lingering spiritual protection, to strike a devastating blow that brought High Immortal Taiyi to his knees, severely wounded.
With High Immortal Taiyi defeated and the Three Realms finally peaceful, Ji Ruochen cradled Zhang Yinyin, refusing to accept her death. When Yinfeng offered condolences, Ji Ruochen fiercely denied Zhang Yinyin was gone, reminding Yinfeng of her promise to open an inn and grow flowers and vegetables with him in the desert.
Determined to save her, Ji Ruochen resolved to use his Blue Fire of Nine Hells to heal Zhang Yinyin, stating that as long as there was hope, he would not give up. He whispered that if only one of them could live, it had to be her. Strange lights enveloped Zhang Yinyin as her injuries visibly healed, but Ji Ruochen suffered a severe backlash, collapsing beside her. Zhang Yinyin eventually awakened, disoriented but alive.
Yinfeng explained that Ji Ruochen had sacrificed all his Blue Fire of Nine Hells to revive her. Overwhelmed with emotion, Zhang Yinyin frantically tried to transfer the Blue Fire of Nine Hells back, declaring she was not afraid of death and only wanted Ji Ruochen to live. Yinfeng revealed that Ji Ruochen had wanted her to survive, which only intensified Zhang Yinyin's anguish, as she struggled with the thought of living alone with their shared memories.
Ji Ruochen then stirred, playfully complaining that she was pressing down on him too hard, much to Zhang Yinyin's profound relief. Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin, having overcome their trials, found peace. Ji Ruochen expressed relief that everything was finally over and the Three Realms were tranquil, and that they could now return to Xixuan Mountains.
Yinfeng reflected on his past obsession with "deity fate" with Qing, realizing that while it seemed long, it was ultimately a mirage, unlike the genuine "mortal fate" shared by Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin, which was "one glance lasts ten thousand years." He blessed their happiness, stating that returning to the mortal world with such a profound bond was a great fortune.
As Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin prepared to return to Xixuan, they bid farewell to Yinfeng, who was then surprised by the arrival of the Great Heavenly Demon, Mr. Ji, who congratulated Yinfeng on his spiritual growth. Yinfeng recognized him from the past, and Mr. Ji explained that High Immortal Taiyi had destroyed their clan's original homeland and imprisoned him.
To find the Blue Fire of Nine Hells and a way to defeat High Immortal Taiyi, he had relied on Bluestone God's assistance to break free, unintentionally causing Yinfeng and Qing to be banished to the mortal realm. He expressed his gratitude for their indirect role in his clan's liberation. Yinfeng then stated he would not return to the God Realm, finding it no different from the mortal world, filled with greed and obsession.
He believed he could not comprehend the Heavenly Path there, but rather, that the "barren land" could train one to be powerful. Mr. Ji then congratulated Yinfeng for realizing the Tao. Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin returned to Xixuan Mountains. After paying their respects at the memorial tablets of Hierarch Ziyang and other Zhenren, they reunited with fellow disciples like Senior Qiushui and Shi Ji.
Ji Ruochen initially believed he was responsible for rejuvenating Xixuan Sect, but he learned from Senior Bingxian that Master Ziyang had left a secret scroll indicating the next Hierarch. Upon opening the scroll, it revealed Ji Bingxian as the chosen successor. Everyone agreed, acknowledging her bravery and resourcefulness. Ji Ruochen then reiterated his desire to open an inn in the desert and live freely, with Zhang Yinyin happily agreeing to follow him.
Before they could leave, Zhang Yinyin's parents arrived with an extensive dowry, including "tacky precious metal," embroidered blankets, and even several bellybands, cotton hats, and cotton clothes meticulously prepared by her mother for future grandchildren. Zhang Yinyin's mother gently chided them for their hasty marriage in Nine Hells without a formal ceremony but insisted they now offer tea as a sign of respect. Ji Ruochen eagerly agreed, playfully blaming Zhang Yinyin for his delay in formally addressing her parents.
A disciple, Ms. Huang, then suggested they also have wedding chamber antics, a proposal Ji Ruochen readily accepted, now addressing Senior Bingxian as Hierarch. To honor their parents and formalize their union, Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin proceeded with a wedding at the Xixuan Sect. Their fellow disciples, including Senior Qiushui and Shi Ji, excitedly prepared the wedding chamber for them. While the wedding celebrations were underway, Xuanzhen, who had served as a protector, conversed with Hierarch Ji Bingxian.
She questioned why he continued to hide and reminded him of his honorable contributions to Xixuan Sect, urging him not to sequester himself in the back mountain. Xuanzhen, however, stated that as the new "Faceless Man," he was obligated to remain there, offering his service for any challenging tasks the sect might need.
When Bingxian asked if he was truly willing to stay there forever, Xuanzhen affirmed his dedication, stating that protecting the Xixuan Mountains and her in this manner would bring him lifelong satisfaction. After their wedding, Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin finally realized their long-held dream of opening an inn in the desert.
They often bantered playfully with their friends, Old Zhang and Huaniang, celebrating the new era of peace that allowed them to finally run a business without fear of constant relocation and destruction. Ji Ruochen jokingly complained about his wife's nagging, while others teased him about being "afraid of his wife" and reminded him to pay his tab.
Meanwhile, Senior Bingxian diligently served as Hierarch of Xixuan Sect, working alongside Xuanzhen, who remained secluded in the back mountain as the sect's silent guardian. Senior Qiushui and Shi Ji had also settled down and started a family. Sometime later, Ji Ruochen and Zhang Yinyin welcomed a child. Mr. Ji, the former Great Heavenly Demon, visited their inn, and they discussed Qingyi, who, after the great battle, had finally realized the Tao, transforming back into a snake to cultivate intensively.
As a new guest arrived, seeking lodging on his way to the "majestic Xixuan" to learn, Ji Ruochen, with his child in his arms, invited him to join their cheerful group, witnessing how the sect's legacy continued through a new generation of disciples, reminiscent of his own past self.
