Noble Aspirations Recap, Plot, Synopsis, Total Episodes

Noble Aspirations Synopsis

Zhang Xiaofan, a teenager from Cao Miao Village, was taken under the Qingyun Sect after experiencing the tragic case of the entire village being wiped out.

In order to repay the kindness of his master, Zhang Xiaofan trained diligently and painstakingly, but due to his own incompetence, he achieved nothing.

Fortunately, he was accompanied by Bi Yao, the daughter of the Ghost King, and his friend Lin Jingyu, who comfort and help him through the most uncertain stage of his life.

Zhang Xiaofan helped the good and eliminated evil together with Lin Jingyu, Lu Xueqi, Zeng Shushu, and other kind-hearted and enthusiastic teenagers.

Zhang Xiaofan gradually grew up during the hardships, and his relationship with Bi Yao deepened.

However, the ghost king set up a series of conspiracies to resurrect the beast god and overthrow Qing Yun.

Zhang Xiaofan was determined to face the enemy. Just when his life was in danger, Bi Yao sacrificed herself to block a fatal sword for him and was seriously injured and unconscious, so Xiaofan wandered the world with the sleeping Bi Yao.

The ghost king came back again, but in the end, Zhang Xiaofan defeated him with great courage and faith, eliminating the thousand-year-old dispute between the two sects, and fulfilling the agreement with Bi Yao, Lin Jingyu, and fellows.

Under the joint efforts of the teenagers, the country was finally replaced with a picturesque landscape and a thousand miles of fertile land.

Noble Aspirations Recap

Episode 1 Recap

In the vast and boundless world, the righteous and the evil have been locked in ceaseless conflict for thousands of years. More than a century ago, the Evil Sect launched a major invasion of the central plain, but the Qingyun Sect, leading the righteous forces, unsealed the ancient divine weapon, the Immortal Slaying Sword, and achieved a resounding victory, utterly defeating the Evil Sect.

Despite their defeat, the Evil Sect never abandoned their ambition to dominate the central plain, and their desire for revenge remained strong as time passed. In Caomiao Village, where villagers lived simple lives, a young boy named Zhang Xiaofan spent his days playing with his friends. One day, while playing hide-and-seek, Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu ran into an old temple. Suddenly, Lin Jingyu's behavior became erratic, and he started choking Zhang Xiaofan.

A mysterious man with an injured hand appeared, observing Lin Jingyu's aggressive aura and noting the boy's young age. Zhang Xiaofan noticed the man's injured hand, but he and Lin Jingyu decided to leave, unsure if the stranger was a good person. Unbeknownst to them, the mysterious man was Pu Zhi of the Heavenly Sound Pavilion, gravely wounded and poisoned by a sneak attack from the Blood Refining Hall, and was meditating in the dilapidated temple.

Later, at home, Zhang Xiaofan's family enjoyed a meal together, and his father noticed a red mark on Xiaofan's neck. Xiaofan explained he was just playing with Lin Jingyu. That night, Zhang Xiaofan went to Lin Jingyu's house and saw someone carrying Lin Jingyu away. He stealthily followed them back to the old temple. There, Pu Zhi discovered that Lin Jingyu had been poisoned by the highly toxic seven-tail centipede and began to treat him.

As Pu Zhi expended some of his energy on the treatment, a skilled practitioner from the Blood Refining Hall appeared, demanding the Bloodthirsty Orb from Pu Zhi. The attacker threatened to harm the entire village, stating that all its inhabitants were mere mortals. Pu Zhi warned Zhang Xiaofan, who had secretly returned to the temple, to stay hidden no matter what transpired outside.

A fierce battle erupted in the courtyard between Pu Zhi and the Blood Refining Hall expert, creating a storm of sand and stones. Worried for Pu Zhi, Zhang Xiaofan emerged from his hiding place. Pu Zhi, utilizing the Bloodthirsty Orb, managed to repel the attacker but suffered severe injuries himself. The shockwave from the clash knocked Zhang Xiaofan unconscious.

Realizing he was dying and that the Blood Refining Hall would return to eliminate witnesses, Pu Zhi decided the only way to save Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu was to send them to Mount Qingyun. He considered his lifelong ambition and pondered which boy to teach the Heavenly Sound Magic. Lin Jingyu, though highly talented, was too vigilant and might reveal the secret. Zhang Xiaofan, despite his lack of talent, was kind-hearted and thus more suitable.

Before his death, Pu Zhi bestowed his lifetime of cultivation and the Heavenly Sound Magic upon Zhang Xiaofan, also entrusting him with the Bloodthirsty Orb, an artifact responsible for much misfortune. He formally accepted Zhang Xiaofan as his disciple, instructing him to never reveal the night's events to anyone, especially his loved ones, and to only use the acquired skills in life-or-death situations, as doing otherwise would bring great disaster.

He then knocked Zhang Xiaofan unconscious and staggered away from Caomiao Village. Shortly after, the Blood Refining Hall expert returned and massacred everyone in Caomiao Village. When Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu awoke, they discovered the horrifying scene, embracing the bodies of their parents and weeping uncontrollably. Tian Buyi from the Big Bamboo Peak of the Qingyun Sect arrived at Caomiao Village and brought Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu to Mount Qingyun.

On Skyreach Peak, the Qingyun Sect leader instructed his head disciple, Xiao Yicai, to bring the boys before the masters. They passed through the peak's entrance and over the Rainbow Bridge, then obtained permission from the Water Kylin, the guardian beast also known as the Spirit Lord, before finally meeting the revered masters of the Qingyun Sect. During this meeting, Zhang Xiaofan's traumatized second uncle suddenly rushed in, screaming about ghosts.

While Zhang Xiaofan could only weep, Lin Jingyu pulled him, repeatedly kowtowing and pleading with the masters to bring justice for them. When asked about the events, Zhang Xiaofan, recalling Pu Zhi's warnings, claimed he did not know much. The Qingyun Sect leader speculated that the Evil Sect was responsible for the massacre, noting that the Ghost King had been increasingly active.

Master Cang Song, recognizing Lin Jingyu's exceptional talent, wished to take him as a disciple, sparking a debate among the masters about who should accept him. To prevent the boys from being in the same branch and constantly recalling their shared tragedy, it was decided that Lin Jingyu would become a disciple under Master Cang Song. For Zhang Xiaofan, whose talents were not apparent, the masters hesitated.

Ultimately, it was decided that Zhang Xiaofan would join Tian Buyi's Big Bamboo Peak. Zhang Xiaofan followed Tian Buyi to Big Bamboo Peak, where his senior sister, Tian Ling'er, introduced him to his senior brothers: Song Daren, Wu Dayi, Zheng Dali, He Dazhi, Lyu Daxin, and Du Bishu. Tian Buyi, still displeased with taking on a less talented disciple, was mollified by his wife, Madam Su Ru, who instructed Song Daren to help Zhang Xiaofan settle into his room.

Zhang Xiaofan later asked Song Daren if their master truly did not want him as a disciple. Song Daren advised Zhang Xiaofan that he could try to win over their master by using his skill in cooking. That night, tormented by the thought of his master's reluctance to accept him, Zhang Xiaofan tossed and turned. He considered discreetly disposing of the Bloodthirsty Orb Pu Zhi had given him by throwing it into a valley.

However, he encountered Lin Jingyu, and at that moment, the skilled practitioner from the Blood Refining Hall reappeared. Lin Jingyu quickly shielded Zhang Xiaofan but was severely wounded. In a moment of crisis, Tian Buyi arrived and confronted the man in black. The assailant's martial arts were formidable, and Tian Buyi struggled until Master Cang Song intervened, helping to drive away the man in black and avert the danger.

Tian Buyi was already unhappy with Zhang Xiaofan as his disciple, and finding out that Xiaofan had secretly left the mountain only worsened his mood. However, after tasting Zhang Xiaofan's cooking, he devoured it, finding it far superior to his sixth disciple's meals. Tian Buyi's attitude towards Zhang Xiaofan began to soften. He asked Zhang Xiaofan why he wished to join the Qingyun Sect, to which Zhang Xiaofan replied that he sought revenge for his parents.

Tian Buyi, however, sternly told Zhang Xiaofan that such a strong desire for vengeance, filled with an aggressive aura, made him no different from the ruthless murderers who had slaughtered his village, and initially refused to accept him as a true disciple.

Episode 2 Recap

Upon arriving at Big Bamboo Peak, Zhang Xiaofan was comforted by his Eldest Senior, Song Daren, who assured him of support despite the potential loneliness of mountain life. Zhang Xiaofan, still uncertain of his master's acceptance, was advised by Song Daren to use his excellent cooking skills to win over Tian Buyi. Meanwhile, during discussions among the Qingyun Sect leaders, it was decided that Lin Jingyu would become Cang Song's disciple, while Zhang Xiaofan would join Tian Buyi's lineage.

Elsewhere, Puzhi gave a mysterious pearl to Lin Jingyu, instructing him to discard it in a secluded spot without being seen. The sect leaders also deliberated on the Grass Temple Village massacre. While Cang Song suspected the Evil Sect, others, including Tian Buyi, questioned the motive and the peculiar survival of only Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu, speculating about dark sorcery, possibly by the Blood Refining Hall.

Xiao Yicai was dispatched to investigate, though Tian Buyi believed the Evil Sect would soon return. Later, Lin Jingyu, worried about Zhang Xiaofan, found him. As Zhang Xiaofan denied remembering anything, the black-clad agent from the Blood Refining Hall attacked them. Lin Jingyu bravely shielded Zhang Xiaofan but was severely wounded. Tian Buyi intervened, struggling against the powerful attacker until Cang Song arrived, forcing the agent to retreat.

Tian Buyi reprimanded Zhang Xiaofan for descending the mountain, but Zhang Xiaofan explained he had gone to investigate, fearing the Evil Sect's return. Cang Song praised Zhang Xiaofan's courage and later advised Lin Jingyu not to let hatred consume him, emphasizing that it could either destroy or strengthen one's will. He also revealed that Xiao Yicai was investigating the truth behind the massacre, urging Lin Jingyu to find a purpose beyond revenge and assist with sect affairs.

During a meal at Big Bamboo Peak, Tian Ling'er impatiently urged her father, Tian Buyi, to start eating. It was revealed that Zhang Xiaofan had prepared the dishes, which were met with widespread praise, far surpassing Du Bishu's usual cooking. Tian Buyi, initially reserved, ate heartily. Zhang Xiaofan was then tasked with all future cooking duties. Following this, Tian Buyi confronted Zhang Xiaofan, reiterating his initial skepticism about accepting a disciple driven solely by vengeance and even suggested expelling him.

He sternly warned Zhang Xiaofan against being consumed by hatred, asserting that true Qingyun disciples must uphold righteousness and protect all life. Zhang Xiaofan, once again kneeling, earnestly pledged to abide by these principles, and Tian Buyi, moved by his sincerity, finally and reluctantly accepted him as a disciple.

As part of his training at Big Bamboo Peak, Zhang Xiaofan was assigned to cut bamboo for three years, a task his senior disciples were often exempt from as they practiced sword-controlling techniques. Tian Ling'er kindly used her Amber Red Silk to fly him to the bamboo forest. Zhang Xiaofan struggled immensely, unable to cut down a single stalk, until six months later, he finally managed to fell one.

Meanwhile, in another part of the sect, Lin Jingyu diligently practiced his sword skills under Cang Song's guidance, who taught him to wield his sword with his heart and to observe his opponents with his eyes. Lin Jingyu's rapid progress in mastering the first level of cultivation in just six months was noted by Cang Song as a rare feat, matched by only one other in the sect's history.

Cang Song, sensing Lin Jingyu's lingering desire for revenge, cautioned him against being overly aggressive. He reiterated that Xiao Yicai was investigating the Grass Temple Village incident, and the truth would eventually surface, but Lin Jingyu should not let revenge become his sole purpose in life. He urged Lin Jingyu to embrace a broader perspective and assist with the sect's internal affairs, which Lin Jingyu acknowledged. Five years passed swiftly.

Tian Buyi still did not teach Zhang Xiaofan any techniques, instead arranging for Tian Ling'er to teach him some simple moves. Zhang Xiaofan was initially clumsy and at a loss, and after a long time, though his physical combat skills had significantly improved through diligent practice, his magical prowess had only reached the second level. Tian Ling'er remarked on his slow magical progress and comforted him, saying that diligence could compensate for lack of talent.

Meanwhile, Du Bishu, the Sixth Senior, attempted to meddle before claiming he was merely encouraging Zhang Xiaofan. Du Bishu then sought to borrow money from Zhang Xiaofan, but Zhang Xiaofan had none. He then turned to Tian Ling'er.

Du Bishu explained that, according to Qingyun Sect rules, disciples who reached the fourth level of cultivation needed to journey down the mountain to find materials for their magical weapons, and he needed funds for food and lodging, as he couldn't simply fly away after consuming a meal without paying. Song Daren refused to lend him money, stating that his funds were managed by Wen Min.

Determined to help Du Bishu, Tian Ling'er took Zhang Xiaofan down the mountain, against Tian Buyi's explicit prohibition. They brought lingzhi mushrooms, secretly harvested from Tian Buyi's field, to sell at Heyang Street Market. Zhang Xiaofan worried about the repercussions, but Tian Ling'er suggested they blame boars if questioned. At the market, Tian Ling'er soon left Zhang Xiaofan to sell the herbs while she went sightseeing.

A young woman named Biyao, the Ghost King's daughter, approached Zhang Xiaofan and tricked him with silver transformed from stones, which she used to take his lingzhi mushroom. Zhang Xiaofan chased after her, leading to a brief confrontation where he was struck by her captivating beauty. Meanwhile, Zeng Shushu, from Wind-Reunion Peak, son of Zeng Shuchang, encountered Zhang Xiaofan and, misunderstanding the situation, playfully offered to teach him how to "chase a girl."

He then led an unwilling Zhang Xiaofan into a bookshop called "Yan Ruyu" (Jade-like Beauty), which he described as a place containing "good things." Qingyun Sect had long forbidden entry to such establishments, which were known to store martial arts manuals and "erotic picture books." Zhang Xiaofan soon discovered that the "Yan Ruyu" book Zeng Shushu was looking for was indeed an erotic picture book, and he refused to help.

At the same time, Lin Jingyu, now the head of the Dragon Head Peak's Disciplinary Hall, arrived at the market with other Disciplinary Hall members on patrol, accompanied by Senior Brother Qi Hao. Qi Hao directed Lin Jingyu to inspect the "Yan Ruyu" bookshop, suspecting that Qingyun disciples might frequent such a place. Inside, Zeng Shushu spotted Lu Xueqi from Small Bamboo Peak and immediately tried to charm her, offering to help her find books.

As Lin Jingyu and the Disciplinary Hall members approached the bookshop, Zeng Shushu, realizing their predicament, quickly helped Lu Xueqi escape through a secret passage, while he and an unsuspecting Zhang Xiaofan were apprehended. Lin Jingyu, considering his childhood friendship with Zhang Xiaofan, prepared to let him off the hook, but Senior Brother Qi Hao had already reported the incident to the sect leader.

Back at Big Bamboo Peak, Tian Buyi, having learned of the unauthorized trip, interrogated Zhang Xiaofan about who had taken him down the mountain. Zhang Xiaofan, unwilling to implicate Tian Ling'er, remained silent. Seeing Zhang Xiaofan's limited progress in five years, Tian Buyi punished him by sending him back to cut bamboo for another three months and warned him not to claim Big Bamboo Peak as his sect when venturing outside.

Heartbroken, Zhang Xiaofan confided in his second uncle, who had lost his memory. Tian Ling'er, grateful that Zhang Xiaofan had not betrayed her, secretly followed him and witnessed his conversation with his uncle. At that moment, the Blood Refining Hall's spy, whom Zhang Xiaofan recognized, reappeared on Mount Qingyun. Zhang Xiaofan pushed Tian Ling'er away, urging her to find Tian Buyi. The spy cornered Zhang Xiaofan on the Rainbow Bridge, leaving him no escape. With no other option, Zhang Xiaofan leaped off the bridge.

Episode 3 Recap

Zhang Xiaofan didn't expect his body in mid-air to suddenly be blocked by something, then bounced back onto the Rainbow Bridge. It turned out that Daoist Master Wan Jianyi, the junior brother of Master Daoxuan of Tongtian Peak, had arrived and rescued Zhang Xiaofan. Wan Jianyi, holding the Zhanlong Sword, engaged in a fight with the man in black.

Amidst the flashing blades and clashing swords, the man in black bent down and transformed into countless black bats, flying towards Wan Jianyi. Wan Jianyi activated the Zhanlong Sword, striking these black bats down to the ground. Wan Jianyi brought Zhang Xiaofan to Dazhu Peak and explained what had happened. Tian Buyi recognized the dropped feathers as belonging to the Blood Raven Art of the Blood Refining Hall, surprised that they dared to infiltrate the Qingyun Sect.

Tian Buyi speculated that the reason this mysterious figure wanted Zhang Xiaofan dead after five years might be related to the Caomiao Village massacre years ago. Tian Ling'er, hearing that Zhang Xiaofan was almost killed, hurried over to ask about the assailant's identity. Zhang Xiaofan, recalling Puzhi's words, lied that he didn't know the mysterious figure. Tian Buyi asked his young disciple Zhang Xiaofan why he went to the back mountain in the middle of the night.

Tian Ling'er lied that she had asked Zhang Xiaofan to practice martial arts in the back mountain. Seeing that Zhang Xiaofan, despite practicing diligently, still lacked the ability to protect himself, Tian Buyi was very disappointed. To ensure Zhang Xiaofan could protect himself, Tian Ling'er stayed up all night, silently transcribing the Qingyun Sect's third-level Sword Riding Art mantra, and told Zhang Xiaofan to practice according to it.

Zhang Xiaofan naturally dared not violate his master's principle of gradual progress in martial arts training. Tian Ling'er encouraged Zhang Xiaofan to secretly master the Sword Riding Art, teaching him hand-in-hand. Zhang Xiaofan finally became proficient in its use. After some time, Zhang Xiaofan was practicing martial arts at night, unaware that the two different arts of Qingyun Sect and Tianyin Temple were mutually opposing.

He took out the Blood-Devouring Pearl, truly unable to understand what was happening, so he had to go to the back mountain again to practice cutting bamboo. In the quiet, deserted back mountain, someone repeatedly threw stones at Zhang Xiaofan. Zhang Xiaofan mistakenly thought it was Tian Ling'er playing a trick on him. Upon closer inspection, he discovered it was a small monkey.

Just then, Tian Ling'er came over to teach him martial arts, teasing Zhang Xiaofan for not even being able to catch a monkey. At this point, Zhang Xiaofan noticed the monkey lying on the ground, seemingly playing dead. Tian Ling'er, with a burst of childlike curiosity, leaned in to check. The monkey suddenly emitted plumes of black smoke, and Tian Ling'er immediately fell to the ground.

Zhang Xiaofan pulled Tian Ling'er and the monkey and started to leave, but stumbled and fell, leaving a bloody mark on his hand. At this moment, the Blood-Devouring Pearl on Zhang Xiaofan's person immediately reacted like a stress response, suddenly emitting immense power, and Zhang Xiaofan floated in mid-air. Looking down, the nearby lake water suddenly splashed, and an iron staff automatically flew into Zhang Xiaofan's hand. Zhang Xiaofan gripped it, but couldn't control it, and immediately passed out.

Zhang Xiaofan opened his eyes to see Tian Ling'er nervously calling his name. Zhang Xiaofan found the iron staff in his hand and also discovered that the bloody mark on his palm had miraculously disappeared. Tian Ling'er found the place strangely abnormal and pulled Zhang Xiaofan away. Zhang Xiaofan, unable to leave the little monkey behind, took it with them. The Blood-Devouring Pearl's stress reaction allowed the Blood Refining Hall master, who had long coveted it, to locate its whereabouts.

He finally saw hope for the revitalization of the Blood Refining Hall. It turned out that the Blood-Devouring Pearl was a notorious and extremely malevolent item; any living creature that approached it for a short period would have its vital essence sucked dry and die. Over a thousand years ago, it was obtained by Old Man Black Heart, an elder of the Blood Refining Hall, after which he became invincible, slaying countless righteous experts.

After Old Man Black Heart's death, the Blood-Devouring Pearl vanished without a trace. It wasn't until five years ago that the Azure Fire Talisman sensed the Blood-Devouring Pearl appearing near Qingyun, prompting the Blood Refining Hall master to order his disciples to thoroughly search for its whereabouts. Tian Buyi saw the little monkey on Zhang Xiaofan's shoulder and quickly asked why.

Tian Ling'er lied, claiming that the monkey had clung to Zhang Xiaofan, and that she had decided to let Zhang Xiaofan bring it back. Faced with Tian Buyi's questions, Zhang Xiaofan could only nod or shake his head woodenly. Tian Buyi was utterly disappointed in this disciple who was even bullied by a monkey. The next day, Zhang Xiaofan went to the back mountain to practice the Sword Riding Art.

After several unsuccessful attempts, with some effort, the treasured sword suddenly flew up, but Zhang Xiaofan couldn't control its direction. It turned out that Zeng Shushu was playing a prank. Zeng Shushu accidentally annoyed the monkey and was scratched by it. Zeng Shushu told Zhang Xiaofan that the monkey he was raising was a spirit beast, a Three-Eyed Spirit Monkey.

Zeng Shushu couldn't get the better of the monkey, so he led Zhang Xiaofan to Xiaozhu Peak to find Lu Xueqi. Lu Xueqi, however, ignored Zeng Shushu. Zeng Shushu recited some mushy poems, then had Zhang Xiaofan light fireworks. The colorful fireworks instantly transformed into a dazzling golden phoenix in the sky. Seeing Zeng Shushu's shameless behavior, Lu Xueqi activated her treasured sword, which immediately transformed into thousands of swords flying towards Zeng Shushu and Zhang Xiaofan. The two of them took off running.

Episode 4 Recap

When Zhang Xiaofan and Zeng Shushu were at Small Bamboo Peak trying to strike up a conversation with Lu Xueqi, Tian Ling'er entered the mountain to bring him food. She saw countless crows flying through the bamboo forest towards her. Tian Ling'er quickly dropped her basket, took out her Amber Red Ribbon, and waved it at the crows.

Tian Ling'er initially thought these were just ordinary crows, but unexpectedly, hidden behind them was the Leader of the Blood Refining Hall, who had almost killed Zhang Xiaofan twice – the boss who had been lurking in Yan Ruyu's Study. Due to the vast disparity in strength, Tian Ling'er's Amber Red Ribbon couldn't unleash its power and she was captured by him.

By the time Zhang Xiaofan reached the Black Bamboo Forest, he saw a letter next to the Amber Red Ribbon, demanding an exchange for Tian Ling'er's life. The beloved daughter of the Great Bamboo Peak's Head was captured, causing shock among all factions of the Qingyun Sect. Daoist Cang Song, Head of Dragon Head Peak, dispatched Lin Jingyu to Great Bamboo Peak to assist in locating Tian Ling'er.

Lin Jingyu noticed that the letter paper was identical to the paper confiscated earlier at Yan Ruyu's Study. Given that the culprit was extremely knowledgeable about the Qingyun Sect's situation, he inferred that the culprit must have been lurking in Yan Ruyu's Study for many years. He decided to go to Yan Ruyu's Study with Zhang Xiaofan first to investigate. Zhang Xiaofan discovered a notice posted at the study, stating it was closing for inventory.

He used the excuse of looking for a book to ask the boss to let him into the study. Zhang Xiaofan casually struck up a conversation with the study's boss. Tian Ling'er, who was tied up upstairs, heard Zhang Xiaofan's voice and struggled desperately. Hearing the sound, Zhang Xiaofan pretended to look for books, glancing around. The Leader of the Blood Refining Hall also began to harbor murderous intentions.

Zhang Xiaofan discovered a secret door in the study, and seized the opportunity to rush in. The Leader of the Blood Refining Hall immediately pursued him. Zhang Xiaofan, worried about Tian Ling'er's safety, adopted a life-for-life fighting style, leaving the Leader of the Blood Refining Hall unable to subdue him for a time.

Lin Jingyu saw that the handwriting on the notice at the study's door was identical to that on the letter, further confirming that the culprit was hiding in the study. Lin Jingyu entered the study's backyard and found black feathers in the courtyard. Just then, a black-clad figure suddenly ambushed Lin Jingyu, and Lin Jingyu engaged in a fierce struggle with him. The two were evenly matched.

At this point, a flock of black crows flew in and attacked both of them. Lin Jingyu helped the black-clad figure out of the predicament. It turned out that this black-clad figure was Bi Yao, who had come to gather information. Lin Jingyu rushed to the study and found that the Leader of the Blood Refining Hall had already knocked Zhang Xiaofan down.

Lin Jingyu quickly intervened to help, but even their combined efforts were no match for the Leader of the Blood Refining Hall. At this moment, Tian Buyi arrived in time, knocking the Leader of the Blood Refining Hall to the ground. Seeing that he was outnumbered, the Leader of the Blood Refining Hall transformed into a wisp of black smoke and departed.

It turned out that the kidnapper of Tian Ling'er was Old Man Nian, the Leader of the Blood Refining Hall. Tian Buyi immediately informed the Sect Leader Dao Xuan of this situation. Everyone speculated that Old Man Nian had been dormant in Qingyun Mountain for a long time, and he must be looking for something extremely important to the Blood Refining Hall.

At this moment, Daoist Cang Song told everyone that two hundred and seventy-one households of Qingyun Sect disciples' mortal families had all been abducted by people from the Blood Refining Hall. They demanded that the Qingyun Sect disciples exchange themselves for their relatives, and if the heads of each faction participated, all hostages would be killed. The Qingyun Sect was plunged into a state of anger and sorrow.

Given the circumstances, Grandmaster Dao Xuan made a decision: Qi Hao and Lin Jingyu would lead the charge, guiding the disciples of the Seven Factions to the Blood Refining Hall's lair, Bihuo Tianbing Lake, to rescue the hostages. The Seven Great Faction Heads would secretly follow, as only this way could the safety of the hostages be ensured. The Qingyun Sect party finally arrived at Bihuo Tianbing Lake. Bihuo Tianbing Lake was heavily fortified with numerous mechanisms.

Tian Ling'er was tied to a pillar. Old Man Nian wanted to fight the Qingyun Sect to the death for the Blood-Devouring Pearl. Old Man Nian cast his magic, and seeing the Qingyun Sect disciples approaching Bihuo Tianbing Lake, he speculated that the Blood-Devouring Pearl was among these disciples. Old Man Nian's Blood Leaf Spirit Gu Array suddenly activated. Maple leaves on the ground swirled around the Qingyun Sect disciples, plunging them into crisis.

Zhang Xiaofan took out his iron rod, which emitted bursts of faint light, and Old Man Nian sensed the presence of the Blood-Devouring Pearl. At this moment, Bi Yao flew down from mid-air, placed her palms on Zhang Xiaofan's iron rod, met his gaze, and channeled her internal energy to help the Qingyun Sect disciples escape the crisis.

It turned out that when Bi Yao was young, she and her mother passed through this place and were ambushed by Old Man Nian, and her mother lost her life here. To avenge her mother, she knew a great deal about Old Man Nian, and this knowledge helped rescue the Qingyun Sect disciples.

Bi Yao learned that Old Man Nian wanted to obtain something extremely important from the Qingyun Sect disciples, and she deduced it must be the iron rod on Zhang Xiaofan. To avoid unnecessary casualties, Lin Jingyu suggested that he and Zhang Xiaofan, along with others, should first conduct reconnaissance before figuring out how to rescue the hostages. At this moment, an unmanned small boat arrived, carrying a message with a jade pendant from Tongtian Peak as a token.

Qi Hao decided to split their forces into two groups to investigate Bihuo Tianbing Lake. Qi Hao assigned Zeng Shushu and Lu Xueqi to investigate by land. With a beautiful woman by his side amidst the scenic lake and mountains, Zeng Shushu naturally wanted to make a good impression. Bi Yao, on the other hand, investigated by water with Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu.

Learning that they were survivors from Grass Temple Village, she couldn't help but recall an earlier time when she fell into a cave, and a young boy from Grass Temple Village saved her with a steamed bun. Lin Jingyu and his companions disguised themselves as subordinates of the Blood Refining Hall and finally infiltrated Bihuo Tianbing Lake. Lord Gou, a leader of the Blood Refining Hall, saw that they didn't salute him and questioned their identities.

Bi Yao immediately reacted cleverly, and Lord Gou, seeing her quick wit, decided to take her with him. According to the plan, Lin Jingyu went to the center of the altar to destroy the mechanisms. He instructed Zhang Xiaofan to follow Bi Yao and act as circumstances dictated.

Episode 5 Recap

Entering the cave, the people of the Blood Devouring Sect found Zhang Xiaofan unfamiliar, so they stopped him to question him. Fortunately, Xiao Yicai, who had already infiltrated the Blood Devouring Sect, helped him to hide his identity from the disciples. Zhang Xiaofan took out the waist token Xiao Yicai had given him, successfully entered the main hall, and saw Nian Laoda tormenting Tian Ling'er.

A flock of blood crows suddenly flew towards Zhang Xiaofan, forcing him to jump out and fight Nian Laoda. Biyao cleverly deceived Gouye, and incidentally, extracted the truth from him: Nian Laoda had captured many hostages to feed a thousand-year-old Blood Kun. As long as he obtained the Blood Devouring Pearl of Old Ancestor Black Heart, he could absorb all the essence from the fish into his own body.

Taking advantage of Gouye's inattention, Biyao knocked him unconscious and took Gouye's waist token. After Biyao came out, she met Lin Jingyu. The two found Zhang Xiaofan missing and rushed towards the main altar, hoping to attract the attention of the Blood Devouring Sect so Zhang Xiaofan could escape. Suddenly, several blood crows charged towards them. Biyao missed a step and almost fell into the lava. Lin Jingyu quickly grabbed her.

At this moment, Biyao recalled being saved by a young boy in Grass Temple Village, feeling that the scene before her was strangely familiar. Lin Jingyu and Biyao arrived at the main hall and found Nian Laoda holding Zhang Xiaofan high above his head. The two quickly surrounded Nian Laoda. Seeing Zhang Xiaofan's reinforcements arrive, Nian Laoda hurriedly threw Zhang Xiaofan outwards. Biyao grabbed Zhang Xiaofan, who was about to fall into the lava.

Lin Jingyu picked up his Dragon Slaying Sword and confronted Nian Laoda. Zhang Xiaofan took the opportunity to free Tian Ling'er from the pillar, and he and Biyao fled with Tian Ling'er. Just then, a masked woman in purple robes blocked their path, demanding to take Biyao away in the name of her father. Biyao called her Aunt You, asking her to help Zhang Xiaofan and Tian Ling'er escape, while she herself turned back to save Lin Jingyu.

Aunt You blocked the Blood Devouring Sect disciples, covering Zhang Xiaofan's departure. At this moment, Qi Hao led the Qingyun Sect disciples into the Blood Devouring Sect and engaged in a fierce battle with its disciples. Zhang Xiaofan put Tian Ling'er aside and rushed to help everyone, joining the melee with the Blood Devouring Sect disciples.

After rescuing Tian Ling'er, Zhang Xiaofan returned to the main hall, where he found Nian Laoda preparing to use Lin Jingyu's blood to sacrifice to the Blood Kun. Zhang Xiaofan quickly took out his staff and fought Nian Laoda fiercely. Nian Laoda snatched the staff, recognized the Blood Devouring Pearl he had been desperately searching for on it, and was instantly overjoyed. He picked up the Blood Devouring Pearl, intending to absorb the power of the thousand-year-old Blood Kun.

At this moment, Biyao rushed over and cast a spell. Her Hehuan Bell immediately emitted a faint blue light. Nian Laoda, realizing she was the Ghost King's daughter, picked up the Blood Devouring Pearl to counter her. Nian Laoda, having absorbed Old Ancestor Black Heart's thousand years of cultivation, was extraordinarily powerful, and Biyao was knocked to the ground. Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu woke up one after another, engaging Nian Laoda.

Biyao seized the opportunity to unleash the Sorrowful Flower, and the three of them, working together, barely managed to hold Nian Laoda back. As soon as Zhang Xiaofan touched the staff, he seemed to meld with it, and snatched it back from Nian Laoda's hands. Having lost the Blood Devouring Pearl, Nian Laoda's power greatly diminished. Biyao seized the chance to kill Nian Laoda for revenge. Nian Laoda flung out a chain, trying to drag Biyao into the lava.

Lin Jingyu and Zhang Xiaofan worked together to pull Biyao up. Afterwards, the three of them together struck Nian Laoda into the magma, and Nian Laoda was swallowed by the thousand-year-old Blood Kun. Meanwhile, Zeng Shushu and Lu Xueqi entered the cave and found a fierce beast, the Fire Kirin, vigilantly guarding the entrance. Zeng Shushu told Lu Xueqi to plug her ears, then took out a short flute and began to play it with his internal energy.

The music was mellow and lingering, and the Fire Kirin surprisingly lay down quietly on the ground. Zeng Shushu pretended to be injured by internal energy and also fell to the ground. Lu Xueqi pressed Zeng Shushu's philtrum. Zeng Shushu took the opportunity to grab Lu Xueqi's small hand and kiss it. Lu Xueqi responded by slapping Zeng Shushu several times. Upon reaching the mountain gate, a giant lock stumped Lu Xueqi.

Zeng Shushu asked Lu Xueqi for a reward, and only after receiving an affirmative reply did he open the large lock and release the hostages. Before they had gone far, the sound of falling rocks in the cave awakened the Fire Kirin. Lu Xueqi, who was covering their retreat, desperately held back the Fire Kirin with her Tianya Sword. Zeng Shushu returned, activated his magical artifact, and a flash of light shot towards the Fire Kirin.

Lu Xueqi seized the opportunity to unleash her Tianya Sword, and the two of them, working together, repelled the Fire Kirin. They hadn't gone far when the Fire Kirin caught up to them again and bit Lu Xueqi's Tianya Sword. Zeng Shushu saw that the Fire Kirin was about to swallow Lu Xueqi, so he quickly activated his magical artifact, embraced Lu Xueqi, and flew out of the cave. The hostages were successfully rescued.

Tian Buyi arrived, greatly relieved, and immediately asked with concern about the whereabouts of his seventh disciple, Zhang Xiaofan. After escaping from the Green Fire Ice Lake, Lin Jingyu learned that Biyao was the daughter of the Ghost King Sect Master. He believed that good and evil could not coexist and was unwilling to listen to Biyao's further explanations.

Biyao asked two questions and finally confirmed that Lin Jingyu was the young boy who had saved her in Grass Temple Village years ago. In the courtyard, Zhang Xiaofan saw Xiaohui and the large yellow dog raised by his master playing together. Just then, Su Ru brought two Dahuang Pills for Zhang Xiaofan to take.

It turned out that Tian Buyi, out of concern for his image and worries about Xiaofan's health, had asked Su Ru to give the Dahuang Pills to Zhang Xiaofan. Su Ru told Zhang Xiaofan that Tian Buyi was troubled by the upcoming Seven Vein Martial Arts Tournament, as none of the Dazhu Peak disciples possessed extraordinary talent like Lin Jingyu. Zhang Xiaofan went to the back mountain and found his senior sister looking troubled.

Upon asking, he learned that she was worried about Qi Hao, but her parents disapproved of her visiting Qi Hao and refused to give her a Dahuang Pill. Zhang Xiaofan then understood the preciousness of the Dahuang Pills and his master's care for him. Seeing Tian Ling'er wanting to go down the mountain to buy medicine for Qi Hao, Zhang Xiaofan took out the remaining Dahuang Pill and gave it to her.

Tian Ling'er happily encouraged Zhang Xiaofan to practice his third level of cultivation diligently and strive to defeat Lin Jingyu, but she also told Zhang Xiaofan that no matter how much he practiced, he would never beat Qi Hao. After saying this, she excitedly went to find Qi Hao. Tian Ling'er's words echoed in Zhang Xiaofan's heart many times.

Episode 6 Recap

Tian Buyi learned that Tian Ling'er had gone to Tongtian Peak to visit Qi Hao, and his anger was simply that of a parent who hates to see his child not live up to expectations. Just then, Zhang Xiaofan heard his master's anger and tried to sneak past, but Tian Buyi called him over and gave him a good scolding. Zhang Xiaofan, knowing his talent was not high, muttered to himself in the kitchen.

At this moment, Tian Ling'er, who was grounded by Tian Buyi, mistakenly thought Zhang Xiaofan had revealed her whereabouts to her father. She came over to accuse Zhang Xiaofan of stirring up trouble in front of her father. Zhang Xiaofan quickly defended himself, saying he hadn't said anything. Tian Ling'er then accused Zhang Xiaofan of not helping her smooth things over. Zhang Xiaofan, who never lied, advised Tian Ling'er to spend less time with Qi Hao.

Tian Ling'er angrily questioned Zhang Xiaofan, saying who she was with was none of his business. After throwing a tantrum, Tian Ling'er also realized that what she did was a bit inappropriate and gradually softened her tone. After Tian Ling'er left, the words she had spoken during the day echoed in Zhang Xiaofan's ears again, making him feel even more inferior. Just then, Xiaohui dragged the stick and brought it to Zhang Xiaofan.

Zhang Xiaofan unintentionally discovered that he had mastered the third level of his cultivation method. He remembered his master once saying that spiritual artifacts recognize their owners, and now that he could wield this stick, perhaps it was his own spiritual artifact. Just then, Du Bishu, who had been traveling, returned to Dazhu Peak and showed everyone his spiritual artifact – a die.

It turned out that Du Bishu had discovered a thousand-year-old three-branched tree by a southern landscape, extracted its essence, and refined it into his own spiritual artifact. Tian Buyi saw that Du Bishu, who was considered relatively intelligent among the disciples, had actually refined such a spiritual artifact. He repeatedly criticized Du Bishu, saying he was truly "rotten wood that cannot be carved."

Tian Buyi could even imagine the scene a month later at the Seven Meridians Martial Arts Tournament, where disciples from various peaks would mock Du Bishu. At that time, what honor would Dazhu Peak have? Su Ru instructed all disciples to prepare for the Seven Meridians Martial Arts Tournament. Zhang Xiaofan learned that he could also go down the mountain to Dazhu Peak, and he excitedly danced with joy. Seeing Tian Buyi's gloomy face, Zhang Xiaofan immediately restrained his smile.

It turned out that this Seven Meridians Martial Arts Tournament allocated nine slots to each peak, but Dazhu Peak, including Zhang Xiaofan and Tian Ling'er, only had a total of eight people. No wonder Tian Buyi agreed to let Zhang Xiaofan, whose magic was not yet fully practiced, participate. Qi Hao came to Dazhu Peak to inform Tian Buyi about the Seven Meridians Martial Arts Tournament.

At the same time, to repay Tian Ling'er for giving him medicine, he gave her a Qingliang Pearl. Ripples of happiness naturally stirred in Tian Ling'er's heart, while Zhang Xiaofan stood silently watching her. Tian Buyi saw his daughter's joyful appearance and was very angry, ordering his disciples to begin secluded cultivation from the next day. Time flew by. All the disciples diligently practiced their magic, and Zhang Xiaofan was not idle either, practicing all day with that stick.

The senior and junior brothers gathered to display their respective spiritual artifacts. Du Bishu finally found someone to mock: Zhang Xiaofan was actually using a kitchen fire poker as his spiritual artifact. The day of the Seven Meridians Martial Arts Tournament arrived. Song Daren used his magic to take Zhang Xiaofan directly to Tongtian Peak. Disciples from various peaks gathered in the Cloud Sea in front of Hong Bridge.

Song Daren went to greet Wen Min, a disciple from Xiaozhu Peak, which prompted everyone to ask for wedding wine. Because disciples from various peaks rarely met, they called out to friends, and the normally quiet Cloud Sea instantly became lively. Qi Hao, graceful and elegant, stood on Hong Bridge and loudly announced to everyone that all disciples participating in the Seven Meridians Martial Arts Tournament should proceed to Yuqing Hall.

Tian Ling'er saw Qi Hao, smiled radiantly like a flower, and headed straight for him. Zhang Xiaofan walked on Hong Bridge and noticed that everyone was walking. He quickly asked Lin Jingyu what was going on. Lin Jingyu told him that, firstly, it was to show respect to the Sect Leader, and secondly, since the establishment of the Qingyun Sect, Patriarch Qingye had set up the Immortal-Slaying Sword Array here.

Anyone who tried to force their way through would surely be slain by the Immortal-Slaying Sword Array. Zhang Xiaofan then understood, repeatedly asking Lin Jingyu about the power of the Immortal-Slaying Sword Array. Just then, they saw the spiritual beast Water Kirin lying by Bishui Pond. They naturally recalled the scene five years ago when they first arrived at the Qingyun Sect and hastily bowed to the Water Kirin.

Lin Jingyu heard that Zhang Xiaofan still couldn't properly wield his spiritual artifact and quickly comforted Zhang Xiaofan, telling him to just consider it an experience. Hearing even Lin Jingyu say this, Zhang Xiaofan secretly vowed to win in the competition. With a movement of his thoughts, the Blood-Devouring Pearl on his stick instantly reacted. The Water Kirin, which had been lying by the water, suddenly stood up and roared repeatedly, causing the sky to darken for a moment.

At this critical moment, Dao Xuan True Lord was seen flying through the air, activating his magic, and only then did the Water Kirin slowly calm down, leaping away into the distance. Cang Song Daoist falsely claimed that the terrifying scene just now was a test from the Spiritual Venerable for everyone, and he instructed the disciples to proceed to Yuqing Hall. Dao Xuan, meanwhile, intended to find the Spiritual Venerable to clarify what had truly happened.

Inside Yuqing Hall, solemn and dignified, Dao Xuan True Lord, after proclaiming the Qingyun Sect's ancestral teachings, informed the disciples that Patriarch Qingye, in order to alert all disciples and encourage them to care for the world, held a Seven Meridians Martial Arts Tournament every sixty years. After more than 1200 years, this was already the twentieth session. Now, the Qingyun Sect was more prosperous than ever before, with countless outstanding young disciples.

Therefore, the number of participants would be increased to sixty-four. Cang Song Daoist announced the drawing rules: there were sixty-three wax pills in the rosewood box. Each person would draw a number from a wax pill to determine their opponent, and the winner would advance. Tian Ling'er didn't understand why there were only sixty-four wax pills when there were clearly sixty-four people. She quickly asked Cang Song Daoist.

Cang Song told everyone that originally each peak had nine participants, with the main peak having one extra. However, because one peak only sent eight people, there were only sixty-three participants in total. The disciple who drew number one would have a bye in the first round. Hearing this, the face of Tian Buyi, Head of Dazhu Peak, grew increasingly grim, because everyone knew that Cang Song was referring to the Dazhu Peak branch. The disciples drew lots in sequence.

Zhang Xiaofan watched Lu Xueqi slowly walk past him, his eyes fixed on her. Just then, Du Bishu pulled Zhang Xiaofan to draw lots. Zhang Xiaofan unexpectedly drew lot number one. Cang Song Daoist asked who had drawn lot number one. Zhang Xiaofan shyly raised his hand and told Cang Song Daoist that he had drawn it. Tian Buyi, seeing his disciple get a bye in the first round, had a joyous expression.

That night, Zhang Xiaofan lay in bed, truly unable to understand why the Spiritual Venerable Water Kirin would get angry both times it saw him. He couldn't resist wanting to go out and see. Suddenly, he noticed Tian Ling'er hurriedly leaving her room.

Episode 7 Recap

The moon climbs the willow tips, a rendezvous at dusk. Zhang Xiaofan followed Tian Ling'er all the way, discovering she was secretly meeting Qi Hao by the Clear Water Pool. Zhang Xiaofan saw the intimate and happy appearance of the two, an indescribable feeling welled up in his heart as he watched Qi Hao and Tian Ling'er walk away hand in hand. Zhang Xiaofan could no longer control himself and walked to the edge of the pool.

Suddenly, the Clear Water Pool churned with swirls, and the Water Kirin burst out of the water, standing before Zhang Xiaofan. Zhang Xiaofan was so scared he panicked, his eyes wide and vacant, as he sat frozen on the ground, his staff also falling. The Water Kirin carefully sniffed the dark staff, found nothing suspicious, then leaped back into the water. Only then did Zhang Xiaofan pick up his staff and run back to his dwelling.

Inside Yuqing Hall, the peak masters of the Qingyun Sect gathered to discuss the Water Kirin's rage earlier that day. Opinions were divided. Reverend Dao Xuan used the Qingyun Sect's secret spiritual communication technique to converse with the Water Kirin, but it yielded no results as the Water Kirin was asleep.

However, Dao Xuan did have something to inform everyone: Xiao Yicai, who had infiltrated the Blood-Refining Faction for five years, although he had not fully investigated the truth of the Grass Temple Village massacre, had discovered that the Demonic Sect seemed to have found the whereabouts of the Heavenly Book, possibly hidden within the Black Heart Elder's treasure cave, the Ten Thousand Bat Cave. It turned out that the Heavenly Book was the Demonic Sect's guardian sect cultivation method.

Legend had it that whoever mastered all five volumes of the Heavenly Book could unite the Demonic Sect and become unrivaled in the world. Dao Xuan informed everyone that several months ago, he had received a secret report from Incense Valley, stating that the Ten Thousand Poison Sect and the Joyous Union Sect had begun their moves, targeting Mount Kongsang outside Yuducheng. Fortunately, Yuducheng had Zeng Shuchang's father-in-law overseeing it, so there were no major issues for the time being.

Dao Xuan had already sent a reply to Yun Yilan, the Valley Master of Incense Valley, stating that Incense Valley and Tianyin Temple would jointly dispatch disciples from their respective sects to thwart the demonic evildoers. As the leader of the righteous path, the Qingyun Sect planned to send the top four young disciples from the upcoming Seven Peak Martial Arts Tournament to Mount Kongsang.

This would serve two purposes: first, to ascertain the movements of the Demonic Sect, and second, to temper the young disciples. The next day, Dao Xuan informed his disciples that to encourage them to commit to cultivation, the top four winning disciples would receive cultivation imparted by the Qingyun Sect's supreme treasure, the Qiankun Nine Ritual Cauldron. Disciples with good aptitude might even comprehend the sect's guardian sword art.

The disciples below were eager to try their hand, and Zhang Xiaofan secretly vowed to work hard to bring glory to Dazhu Peak. The Seven Peak Martial Arts Tournament officially began. Tian Ling'er, wielding her Amber Red Silk, defeated a Chaoyang Peak disciple, earning rounds of applause from the audience. Only Shang Zhengliang, the peak master of Chaoyang Peak, was very disheartened.

With the first victory secured, Tian Buyi, the peak master of Dazhu Peak, told his disciples that disciples from other peaks were not unattainable. Ling'er had set an example for everyone, and he hoped all disciples would work hard to bring glory to Dazhu Peak. Tian Ling'er was naturally overjoyed and ran towards Zhang Xiaofan. Zhang Xiaofan happily prepared to greet his senior sister, only to watch the fairy-like Tian Ling'er run past him.

It turned out Tian Ling'er was running towards Qi Hao, who had come to congratulate her on her victory. Just as Zhang Xiaofan was feeling dejected and melancholic, Zeng Shushu, who had easily won his match, came over and told Zhang Xiaofan that he had accidentally won a round. In truth, Zeng Shushu's interest lay in raising pets. If his father, Zeng Shuchang, hadn't forced him to practice cultivation, he wouldn't have wanted to practice martial arts at all.

Zeng Shushu wanted to trade the treasures he possessed for Zhang Xiaofan's Three-Eyed Spirit Monkey, Xiao Hui. Zhang Xiaofan had been listening to the conversation between Tian Ling'er and Qi Hao, feeling a pang of bitterness, even saying that he didn't deserve to possess certain things. Seeing Zhang Xiaofan's dejected look, Zeng Shushu pulled him to the Qingyun Sect's Treasure Vault to cheer him up.

It turned out that Zeng Shushu wanted to use treasures from the vault to trade for Zhang Xiaofan's Xiao Hui. At this moment, Zeng Shuchang and Daoist Cangsong placed the Qingyun Sect's supreme treasure, the Qiankun Nine Ritual Cauldron, on the altar in the Treasure Vault. As a precaution, Zeng Shuchang applied a restrictive spell. After Cangsong and Zeng Shuchang left, Zhang Xiaofan and Zeng Shushu looked at the Qiankun Nine Ritual Cauldron with great envy.

Just then, hearing a commotion outside, the two went out and saw a Fenghui Peak disciple severely injured by Lu Xueqi. Zeng Shushu repeatedly apologized to that disciple on Lu Xueqi's behalf. Zeng Shuchang discovered Zhang Xiaofan with Zeng Shushu, and invited Zhang Xiaofan, who shared a strong camaraderie with Zeng Shushu, to be a guest at his home.

Zeng Shushu used his self-designed wooden bird to inform Song Daren of the news that Zhang Xiaofan was staying at Fenghui Peak. That night, Zhang Xiaofan saw the various mechanical magic artifacts made by Zeng Shushu, his eyes filled with envy. Thinking of the martial arts competition the next day, Zhang Xiaofan felt no confidence at all. However, he thought that no matter what, he had to persevere to the end. Zeng Shushu quickly comforted Zhang Xiaofan.

Zhang Xiaofan told Zeng Shushu that he didn't have a goal like him, especially after Elder Nian's death, he felt even more lost. Zeng Shushu consoled Zhang Xiaofan, explaining that besides the Blood-Refining Faction, the Demonic Sect also included sects like the Ten Thousand Poison Sect, the Longevity Hall, the Joyous Union Faction, and the Ghost King Sect.

Among them, Bi Yao, whom he met at the Azure Fire Heavenly Ice Lake, was the daughter of the Ghost King Sect's Master. At this moment, Bi Yao was commemorating her mother, Xiao Chi. Before her eyes, the scene of herself and her mother being pursued by Elder Nian years ago seemed to reappear, and grief welled up in her heart. Bi Yao reported the news of killing Elder Nian and avenging her mother to her mother's spirit in heaven.

At the same time, she told her mother that she had found Lin Jingyu, the little boy who had given her steamed buns back then. However, he had become a Qingyun Sect disciple, indicating that as someone from the Ghost King Sect, she and he were on opposing sides of good and evil. Just then, the Ghost King walked over, having overheard all of Bi Yao's words.

He felt gratified that his daughter had avenged Xiao Chi and sought medicine to heal his injuries. However, the Ghost King believed the martial world was treacherous and fraught with unpredictable schemes. He decided to keep Bi Yao under house arrest on Mount Huqi, waiting for news from his mole embedded within the enemy ranks before dispatching Bi Yao on external missions according to the situation.

A black-clad figure, under the cover of night, broke into the Treasure Vault, triggering the restrictive spell applied by Zeng Shuchang. This alarmed Zeng Shushu and Zhang Xiaofan, and the black-clad figure had no choice but to flee in a hurry. While Zeng Shushu was chasing the black-clad figure, he encountered Lu Xueqi practicing her breathing techniques. The two returned to the Treasure Vault and fortunately found the Qiankun Nine Ritual Cauldron unharmed. Zeng Shuchang decided to report this matter to the Sect Master.

Episode 8 Recap

Zhang Xiaofan heard Zeng Shushu talk about his Master's past pursuit of his Master's wife, and wanted to use giving mung bean cake as an opportunity to start pursuing Tian Ling'er. He met Lu Xueqi at the female disciples' living quarters. Lu Xueqi told Zhang Xiaofan that Tian Ling'er had already gone out to train with Qi Hao, and also reminded Zhang Xiaofan to prepare for the Seven Meridians Martial Arts Tournament.

After hearing Lu Xueqi's words, Zhang Xiaofan quickly left. In the second round of the Seven Meridians Martial Arts Tournament, Zhang Xiaofan was set to fight Chu Yuhong from Chaoyang Peak. Du Bishu and others were not optimistic about Zhang Xiaofan, believing he was bound to lose this match. Other fellow disciples either had their own matches or wanted to cheer for Tian Ling'er. For a time, Zhang Xiaofan was the only Dazhu Peak disciple left near the arena.

The spectators cheering below were all Chaoyang Peak disciples, mocking Dazhu Peak for having no one to watch the fight. Just then, Chu Yuhong leaped onto the arena. Zhang Xiaofan took out his stick, which naturally drew laughter from the Chaoyang Peak disciples—a Dazhu Peak disciple actually using a fire-poker as a weapon. Ignoring the mockery, Zhang Xiaofan held the fire-poker and fought Chu Yuhong.

Chu Yuhong saw that Zhang Xiaofan's magical abilities were weak and originally held back, but still knocked Zhang Xiaofan to the ground. Zhang Xiaofan realized Chu Yuhong was going easy on him and urged Chu Yuhong to fight with all his might. Chu Yuhong unleashed his magic, and indeed, it was extraordinary. With one strike, Zhang Xiaofan spat out a mouthful of fresh blood. The Blood-devouring Bead on the fire-poker touched the blood and immediately emitted bursts of eerie light.

Zhang Xiaofan seemed to sense something at this moment, and the fire-poker instantly unleashed immense power. No matter how much Chu Yuhong used his magic to resist the eerie light from the fire-poker, he was still struck and spat out blood. Zhang Xiaofan won! Below the arena, the Chaoyang Peak disciples all accused Zhang Xiaofan of cheating and winning unfairly. Chu Yuhong lied, claiming he was too careless and underestimated his opponent, stopping everyone from criticizing Zhang Xiaofan.

Zhang Xiaofan hurried to another arena and saw Lu Xueqi easily defeat a Fenghui Peak disciple. Just then, the victorious Zeng Shushu also came over to watch Lu Xueqi's match. He noticed a bloodstain on Zhang Xiaofan's face and quickly asked about Zhang Xiaofan's condition with concern. Zhang Xiaofan quickly said he was fine. Lu Xueqi quickly asked Zeng Shushu if he had a way to deal with last night's treasure thief.

Zeng Shushu believed that they were only focused on supervising the Seven Meridians Martial Arts Tournament and had no time to spare for this matter. Zhang Xiaofan discussed with them about staking out the Treasure Pavilion that night. In the third round of the martial arts competition, Zhang Xiaofan was up against Huang Lei from Chaoyang Peak. Song Daren and other Dazhu Peak disciples all rushed to cheer for Tian Ling'er, leaving Zhang Xiaofan to fight alone once again.

At this moment, he saw his childhood friend, Lin Jingyu, standing below the arena, and felt a slight sense of comfort in his heart. On the arena, Zhang Xiaofan activated his fire-poker, and in just one round, he knocked Huang Lei to the ground. Zhang Xiaofan was momentarily unsure what had happened. The immense power made the many surrounding disciples feel incredible, and Lin Jingyu also quietly left.

Zhang Xiaofan sat in the Black Bamboo Forest, pondering the reason for his victories. He wondered whether it was the Qingyun Sect's cultivation technique or the Dàfàn Bōrě technique passed to him by Puzhi that helped him win, or if he only achieved victory because he was controlled by the stick. Zhang Xiaofan was utterly confused. Just then, Lin Jingyu came to Zhang Xiaofan to get to the bottom of it. Zhang Xiaofan lied, claiming he won by luck.

Lin Jingyu wanted to spar with Zhang Xiaofan and test him. Facing his best friend, Zhang Xiaofan was no match for Lin Jingyu and was knocked to the ground by him. Facing Lin Jingyu's interrogation, Zhang Xiaofan could only lie, claiming he used underhanded tricks. Lin Jingyu questioned Zhang Xiaofan about what unorthodox methods he had learned and how he obtained this mysterious stick.

Zhang Xiaofan, who never lied, couldn't help but clench his fists, resolutely refusing to tell Lin Jingyu the origin of his magical weapon. After his victory, Zhang Xiaofan showed no joy. Zeng Shushu saw Zhang Xiaofan's furrowed brows and quickly asked him the reason for his win.

Seeing Zhang Xiaofan remain silent, Zeng Shushu told Zhang Xiaofan that he would be sparring with Peng Chang, a Fenghui Peak disciple, tomorrow, and Peng Chang was the most highly cultivated disciple of Fenghui Peak. He added that he would ask his senior brother Peng Chang to go easy on him then. Zhang Xiaofan, in a daze, asked Zeng Shushu if there were any Qingyun Sect disciples who practiced two different cultivation techniques simultaneously.

Zeng Shushu told Zhang Xiaofan that the Qingyun Sect's rules were very strict regarding disciples who secretly learned other techniques, and there should be no one capable of cultivating two different techniques. In the fourth round of the Seven Meridians Martial Arts Tournament, Zhang Xiaofan was up against Peng Chang from Fenghui Peak. Disciples from Chaoyang Peak also came to cheer for Peng Chang, hoping he would defeat Zhang Xiaofan to avenge Chaoyang Peak.

Only Zeng Shushu advised Peng Chang to go easy on Zhang Xiaofan. Zhang Xiaofan, fearing he might lose control and injure someone again, dared not retaliate at all against Peng Chang's fierce offensive and was cornered by Peng Chang's sword. Peng Chang noticed Zhang Xiaofan wasn't fighting back, thinking he was looking down on him, and urged Zhang Xiaofan to make a move. Zeng Shushu also shouted from below the arena, telling Zhang Xiaofan to retaliate.

Zhang Xiaofan's will moved with his heart, and the stick moved with him; for a moment, eerie light flickered on the arena. Peng Chang wielded his precious sword, and the clang of clashes on the arena was incessant. Zhang Xiaofan resisted with his stick but was still cut in several places by Peng Chang's sword. Just then, the Blood-devouring Bead within the fire-poker absorbed Zhang Xiaofan's blood.

After emitting several strands of red light, the eerie glow intensified, and Peng Chang fell to the ground, spitting out blood. Zeng Shushu saw his senior brother injured and, in a moment of urgency, leaped onto the stage to confront Zhang Xiaofan, accusing him of deceiving him by saying he couldn't use magic.

At this point, the Qingyun disciples below the stage all realized that Zhang Xiaofan was not using Qingyun cultivation techniques and rushed to jump onto the stage to beat Zhang Xiaofan. The Dazhu Peak disciples jumped up to protect Zhang Xiaofan. Just then, Zeng Shuchang and Tian Buyi flew over through the air, ordering the disciples to stop. Tian Buyi saw the cuts and bloodstains on Zhang Xiaofan's body and, feeling pained, gently touched Zhang Xiaofan's wounds.

Tian Buyi couldn't understand how Zhang Xiaofan, whom he had only taught the second level of cultivation technique incantations, had managed to bypass the third level and cultivate to the fourth level to wield a magical weapon. Tian Buyi sternly questioned Zhang Xiaofan about who had taught him the third level of the technique, warning that otherwise, for secretly learning other techniques, he would be expelled from the sect.

Episode 9 Recap

Upon hearing his master speak so gravely, Tian Buyi couldn't help but secretly glance at Tian Ling'er, but he still didn't admit the origin of his martial arts. Tian Buyi flew into a rage, activated his magic, levitated Zhang Xiaofan, and then fiercely struck Zhang Xiaofan's abdomen. Zhang Xiaofan fell to the ground, spitting blood and losing consciousness. Tian Ling'er hurriedly ran over to embrace Zhang Xiaofan, and along with a group of disciples, pleaded with Tian Buyi.

After an unknown period, Zhang Xiaofan finally woke up, feeling somewhat better instead. Song Daren, who came to deliver medicine, guessed that his master's palm strike might have dispelled the internal stagnant blood from Zhang Xiaofan's body. Considering Zhang Xiaofan's injuries, Song Daren told him that during tomorrow's match against Lu Xueqi, he should just fight casually and absolutely avoid aggravating his old injuries.

Zhang Xiaofan heard Song Daren say that all the Dazhu Peak disciples, except for himself, had been defeated, and Tian Ling'er was crying in the back mountain because of this. He immediately got up and rushed to the back mountain. The next day, during the Seven Peaks Martial Arts Tournament, Zhang Xiaofan faced Lu Xueqi. The sect leaders from all branches of Qingyun Sect observed the match together.

Reverend Cangsong sarcastically mocked Zhang Xiaofan, the disciple taught by Tian Buyi, who in turn retorted sharply. Standing on the arena, Zhang Xiaofan saw Tian Ling'er and Qi Hao whispering together, and an indescribable feeling arose in his heart again. Facing Lu Xueqi, Zhang Xiaofan was ready to end all of this completely. As soon as Lu Xueqi's Tianya Sword appeared, its power was immense. She then unleashed Qingyun Sect's ultimate technique, the Yu Lei Zhen Jue (True Thunder Spell).

Tian Buyi worried that Zhang Xiaofan wouldn't be able to withstand it. Zhang Xiaofan was momentarily stunned when he saw Lu Xueqi using the Yu Lei Zhen Jue. It turned out that Zhang Xiaofan realized the move Lu Xueqi used was identical to the one the man in black used when fighting Puzhi that day. Joyful scenes from his childhood seemed to flash before his eyes. In a daze, Zhang Xiaofan seemed to see Master Puzhi before him.

Puzhi questioned Zhang Xiaofan whether he had learned the Qingyun Sect's magic arts and if he was properly using the Blood-devouring Bead. Puzhi told Zhang Xiaofan that the Blood-devouring Bead, offered with blood, becomes bloodthirsty. The more people it kills, the greater its power and magic will become, and then flattening the Qingyun Sect will be just around the corner.

At this moment, Zhang Xiaofan no longer saw the arena; it was as if he had returned to Grass Temple Village. Lu Xueqi kept urging him to control his inner demon. However, Puzhi's voice, telling him to kill Lu Xueqi, echoed endlessly. Zhang Xiaofan suddenly lost control, his eyes wide with fury, and he raised his Firestick, fiercely attacking Lu Xueqi. Seeing Zhang Xiaofan's frenzied state, Lu Xueqi hastily advised him to regain consciousness.

Instead, Zhang Xiaofan pressed forward without retreating, and the immense power of the Tianya Sword and the Firestick pierced through the arena. The aura of light emitted by the Tianya Sword and the Firestick enveloped the entire arena, so people outside had no idea what was happening. Lu Xueqi then drew another breath of true qi and heavily struck Zhang Xiaofan. His body flew backward, crashing hard against the railing. Only then did Zhang Xiaofan regain consciousness.

Lu Xueqi told Zhang Xiaofan that he was trapped in his memories and controlled by his inner demon at this moment. He must find a way to eliminate the inner demon; only then could they escape their predicament. Zhang Xiaofan then understood that he had always been unable to let go of the massacre at Grass Temple Village.

He was determined to overcome his inner demon, safely send Lu Xueqi out, and begged Lu Xueqi to kill him afterward to prevent future trouble. On the arena, the two seemed to be in a calm standoff, but in reality, it was extremely dangerous. Zhang Xiaofan, controlled by his inner demon, finally calmed down under Lu Xueqi's persuasion. They were seen with sorrowful expressions on their faces, then suddenly both flew backward and fell.

Tian Buyi saw Zhang Xiaofan fall to the ground and immediately rushed to treat him. A month later, Zhang Xiaofan was finally able to get out of bed to chop wood. Tian Ling'er hurriedly stopped him, citing Zhang Xiaofan's unhealed internal injuries, and told him that fortunately, their father and mother had dedicated themselves to his treatment, which helped Zhang Xiaofan retrieve his life.

Tian Ling'er also excitedly told Zhang Xiaofan that their father had always been concerned about his reputation, and that the palm strike he gave Zhang Xiaofan was actually to clear his stagnant blood. Zhang Xiaofan was the first Dazhu Peak disciple in nearly three hundred years, besides Tian Buyi, to be so formidable in the Seven Peaks Martial Arts Tournament, so Tian Buyi naturally cared for him deeply.

As she spoke, Tian Ling'er unconsciously mentioned Qi Hao, revealing her heartfelt feelings of mutual love with Qi Hao to Zhang Xiaofan. She also complained to Zhang Xiaofan about the grievances caused by her parents' opposition to her relationship with Qi Hao. The stubborn Tian Ling'er was resolute about being with Qi Hao, so Zhang Xiaofan could only offer his blessings to Tian Ling'er and Qi Hao.

Tian Ling'er only knew that Zhang Xiaofan understood and cared for her, but she was unaware of the deep pain in Zhang Xiaofan's heart. At Yuqing Hall on Tongtian Peak, Dao Xuan and Reverend Cangsong activated a demon-exorcising formation, using the scales of the Spiritual Venerable Beast to detect if Zhang Xiaofan possessed any demonic cultivation techniques. The result proved that Zhang Xiaofan did not have any demonic aura.

Tian Buyi laughed heartily upon hearing this, but Cangsong still believed Zhang Xiaofan was extremely wicked and definitely a spy for the Demonic Sect. Tian Buyi, eager to protect his disciple, refuted Reverend Cangsong by stating that Zhang Xiaofan used the stick in plain sight. The two of them engaged in a war of words in Yuqing Hall until Dao Xuan intervened, and they ceased their argument.

Faced with Cangsong's aggressive accusations, Shuiyue, the head of Xiaozhu Peak, could no longer tolerate it. She vigorously defended Zhang Xiaofan, accusing Cangsong of being unable to stand the emergence of outstanding disciples from other branches.

Under the Ghost King Sect, a spy from the Ghost King Sect who had infiltrated the Qingyun Sect informed the Ghost King that the top four winners of the Qingyun Sect's Seven Peaks Martial Arts Tournament were Lin Jingyu, Zeng Shushu, Lu Xueqi, and Zhang Xiaofan. Bi Yao, who was beside him, couldn't believe that a seemingly weak Qingyun Sect disciple like Zhang Xiaofan could make it into the top four, concluding that the Qingyun Sect lacked talented successors.

The spy told the Ghost King that Zhang Xiaofan had fought the Tianya Sword to a draw by relying on a strange magical artifact. The Ghost King believed that Zhang Xiaofan must have had an extraordinary opportunity to obtain such a treasure. Hearing that these four would travel to Kongsan Mountain after their recovery, Bi Yao immediately wanted to go to Kongsan Mountain to join the excitement. The Ghost King, however, preferred to wait for the right moment to make a move.

Episode 10 Recap

As per the agreement, Zeng Shuchang activated his magic, transferring the divine skill from the Nine-Armaments Cauldron to the four disciples who won the Seven-Meridian Tournament, tailored to each person's unique cultivation method. What Zeng Shushu received was the Azurewood Spell, capable of subduing spirit beasts. Zeng Shushu, who loved raising small animals, was naturally overjoyed. Lin Jingyu and Lu Xueqi also finished receiving their powers, but only Zhang Xiaofan showed no reaction.

Zeng Shuchang activated his magic again, and Zhang Xiaofan finally accepted the divine skill from the Nine-Armaments Cauldron. He felt that the previously conflicting Qingyun magic and Great Brahma Prajna techniques within his body had merged together, and he was naturally secretly delighted. After the power transfer was complete, Zeng Shuchang instructed the four of them to practice diligently, then asked Xiao Yicai to accompany him to place the Nine-Armaments Cauldron.

After the task was done, Zeng Shuchang noticed that Xiao Yicai's complexion was off and quickly told Xiao Yicai to go back and rest first. It turned out that Xiao Yicai was the Ghost King Sect's mole in the Qingyun Sect. The last time he reported to the Ghost King Sect, the Ghost King made Xiao Yicai drink the Blood of the Beast God to enhance his power.

At the same time, Xiao Yicai had to pay a price for this—during the full moon, he would temporarily transform into a bloodthirsty monster with only slaughter in his eyes. At this moment, Xiao Yicai's body began to show some reactions. After Zeng Shuchang left, Zeng Shushu and Lin Jingyu hurriedly apologized for what they had done to Zhang Xiaofan during the Seven-Meridian Tournament. They naturally discussed Zhang Xiaofan's mysterious staff.

Zeng Shushu criticized Lin Jingyu for not distinguishing between good and evil, citing the Qingyun Sect's cultivation philosophy, "All methods under heaven, though different paths, lead to the same destination." Zeng Shushu told Lin Jingyu that cultivation techniques are neither righteous nor evil; it is the human heart that distinguishes between good and evil. As long as one constantly controls their inner demons and cultivates their character, they will not be controlled by magic treasures.

Zhang Xiaofan, standing nearby, appeared thoughtful. To help Zhang Xiaofan recuperate, Zeng Shushu pulled Lin Jingyu and Zhang Xiaofan to drink medicinal wine together. Afterward, Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu walked on the mountain path. Zhang Xiaofan told Lin Jingyu that when he competed with Lu Xueqi, he saw his inner demons, as if he had returned to the time when Grass Temple Village was massacred. He vaguely felt that there was more to some matters than met the eye.

Just then, they saw a dark figure flash past them. Lin Jingyu, on one hand, signaled his master, and on the other hand, chased after it with Zhang Xiaofan. Suddenly, a dark, human-faced beast-bodied figure rushed over and scratched Lin Jingyu. In his desperation, Zhang Xiaofan quickly activated his magic to fight against the black-clad monster. He unexpectedly discovered that his cultivation had greatly improved, and he could now wield magic.

At this moment, Daoist Cangsang received the signal and hurried over. The dark figure fled in a panic. Cangsang told Zhang Xiaofan to take Lin Jingyu back to the mountain while he continued to pursue the black-clad monster. Just as he was about to catch up with the black-clad monster, suddenly a person blocked Cangsang's path.

This person told Cangsang that he knew about the old matters of the Blood Refining Hall and that the leader of the Ghost King Sect would come to find him. Cangsang pondered for a moment and watched as the person left. This person caught up with the human-faced beast-bodied monster and found that after running for a while, he had reverted to Xiao Yicai's appearance. Xiao Yicai, at this moment, regretted drinking such potent Blood of the Beast God.

He swung his hand to strike at the person, but was instead restrained by him. It turned out that the Ghost King had long suspected Xiao Yicai had issues, which was why he made him drink the Blood of the Beast God and also arranged for this person to help Xiao Yicai.

Facing the hysterical Xiao Yicai, this person threatened Xiao Yicai by using his reputation and the promise of lifting the control of the Beast God's Blood as leverage, to make him serve the Ghost King Sect. Cangsang returned and found Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu discussing the identity of the beast-man. He lied, claiming he had already severely wounded the beast-man, and also warned Zhang Xiaofan not to mention this matter to anyone else.

While Zhang Xiaofan was practicing with his fellow disciples, he noticed Tian Ling'er staring intently at the Cooling Pearl given to her by Qi Hao. During the break, Zhang Xiaofan wanted to talk to Tian Ling'er, but saw Tian Ling'er rush out of her master's room in a rage.

Tian Buyi told Zhang Xiaofan that the reason he disapproved of Qi Hao was not because he was a Tongtian Peak disciple, but because Qi Hao was arrogant, conceited, impure of heart, and unfit for great responsibilities. Tian Buyi criticized Zhang Xiaofan for not having ambition and for not daring to pursue his childhood sweetheart, his senior sister Tian Ling'er.

Zhang Xiaofan, in turn, used the love between his master and his master's wife to persuade his master, for Tian Ling'er's happiness, to allow Tian Ling'er and Qi Hao to be together. Learning that her father had agreed to her marriage with Qi Hao, Tian Ling'er happily found Zhang Xiaofan and embraced him tightly to express her gratitude. For the happiness of the one he loved, Zhang Xiaofan sacrificed his own happiness, giving up his beloved senior sister Tian Ling'er.

He was naturally downcast and melancholic. Just then, Zeng Shushu came to comfort Xiaofan and urged Zhang Xiaofan to follow him to Kongsang Mountain to investigate news of the Demonic Sect. Zhang Xiaofan was concerned that his magic treasure had been confiscated. Zeng Shushu immediately took out Zhang Xiaofan's dark, plain staff. It turned out that Zeng Shushu had discovered that the Disciplinary Hall hadn't found any flaws in the staff for several months.

He incited Peng Chang and others to protest, claiming the Disciplinary Hall was occupying a Qingyun disciple's magic treasure. It was only then that Daoist Cangsang returned the staff to Zhang Xiaofan. Zhang Xiaofan found his master. Before he could express his intention to go down the mountain, Tian Buyi agreed to let Zhang Xiaofan go down the mountain for experience, according to the Qingyun Sect's rules.

However, he instructed Zhang Xiaofan to remember the principles of "establishing the heart for heaven and earth, establishing life for the common people, continuing the lost teachings for past sages, and creating peace for all generations," and to bring glory to the sect. At the time of departure, his fellow disciples and Tian Ling'er reluctantly saw Zhang Xiaofan off. The two traveled forward on the Luban Kite when they encountered a flock of birds.

The Luban Kite fell to the ground, and Zhang Xiaofan's leg was injured. Zeng Shushu had no choice but to help Zhang Xiaofan walk. They entered a dilapidated courtyard and found Dog Lord and the escaped disciples of the Blood Refining Hall preparing to go to Yudou City to rob for money. Zeng Shushu prepared to teach them a good lesson. In his daze, Dog Lord seemed to see a ghostly figure flash past him.

It turned out that Zeng Shushu and Zhang Xiaofan had worked together, using some homemade mechanical magic treasures to scare Dog Lord and his men so badly that they fled the courtyard in terror. The two were so overjoyed that they forgot themselves. When they turned around, they saw a mysterious person wearing a mask, and Zeng Shushu was scared out of his wits.

After calming down, the person claimed he had been practicing medicine in the jianghu and that he wore a mask because of a facial disfigurement, to avoid scaring children. This person noticed Zhang Xiaofan's injured leg and healed Zhang Xiaofan's leg in a few moves. This person called himself Ghostly Doctor and made this deserted ancestral hall his home. Early the next morning, Ghostly Doctor pointed out the path to Yudou for Zeng Shushu and Zhang Xiaofan. As soon as the two left the courtyard, the door behind them creaked shut.

Episode 11 Recap

After the two heard the door creak shut behind them, Zhang Xiaofan was still worried whether Dog Lord would return to trouble Ghost Master. What he didn't know was that Dog Lord was actually in league with Ghost Master. Yudou City was bustling with activity. Zhang Xiaofan told Zeng Shushu that they should first look for Lin Jingyu and Lu Xueqi. Zeng Shushu wanted to visit his maternal grandfather first, and then play for a couple of days.

They found a place in Yudou City where many people had gathered. It turned out to be a Tianyin Pavilion disciple demanding that Jin Ping'er of Jinxiu Workshop release someone. Zeng Shushu, not understanding the situation, accused Jin Ping'er of breaking up marriages and stealing wives. Seeing the Qingyun Sect masters arrive to help, the Tianyin Pavilion disciple became even more emboldened, leading the crowd to force Jin Ping'er to release the person.

Just as the crowd counted to three, several red threads suddenly shot out from the house, wrapping around Zeng Shushu, Zhang Xiaofan, and the disciple, making it impossible for them to break free. Zeng Shushu hastily announced loudly that the Lord of Yudou City was his maternal grandfather, and only then did Jin Ping'er release them. To repay Zeng Shushu and his companion for their help, the Tianyin Pavilion disciple specially hosted a banquet for Zhang Xiaofan and Zeng Shushu.

Zeng Shushu asked the Tianyin Pavilion disciple about the cause of the incident. The disciple told them that he had been betrothed in childhood to a girl named Ding Ling who lived next door, but Ding Ling had always disliked his ugly appearance. Later, he cultivated for ten years in Tianyin Pavilion, but Ding Ling still hid and refused to see him because she found him ugly.

Now, with Jin Ping'er interfering, it was even harder for him to see Ding Ling, which led to the previous events. To help the Tianyin Pavilion disciple, Zeng Shushu and his companions devised a plan and finally came up with an idea.

This Tianyin Pavilion disciple, named A Xiang, disguised himself as Young Master Jia, a merchant from Jiangnan, and, under the pretext of discussing business with Jin Ping'er, wanted to see how the embroideresses of Jinxiu Workshop wove their unparalleled embroidery. Zeng Shushu and Zhang Xiaofan took the opportunity to sneak into Jinxiu Workshop disguised as ruffians. Their original intention was to make A Xiang appear distinguished and handsome.

The two encountered an embroideress and hastily pressed her for Ding Ling's whereabouts, unaware that this embroideress was Ding Ling herself. Ding Ling falsely claimed she would take them to find the person, then unexpectedly used silk fabric to wrap around Zeng Shushu and Zhang Xiaofan. Zeng Shushu, realizing this person was Ding Ling, lied that her parents owed him money three years ago. The two broke free from the silk and tried to drag Ding Ling out.

Just then, Young Master Jia, who arrived upon hearing the commotion, rebuked the two for daring to act wildly in broad daylight and repelled them. Jin Ping'er coldly watched their three-person performance and told A Xiang to get out of Jinxiu Workshop. It turned out that Jin Ping'er had long seen through Young Master Jia's disguise as A Xiang and had discerned their 'bitter plot' and so-called 'hero saving the beauty' scheme.

Ding Ling pulled off A Xiang's fake beard, and A Xiang hastily revealed his true identity to her. As soon as Zeng Shushu and Zhang Xiaofan stepped outside, Guard Yan of Yudou City arrived at Jinxiu Workshop with officers to arrest the three of them. It turned out that Jin Ping'er had already reported them. Guard Yan asked if they were accomplices. A Xiang vehemently denied it.

Guard Yan wanted to take Zhang Xiaofan and Zeng Shushu away, leaving A Xiang at Jinxiu Workshop on the grounds that he had committed no offense. Zeng Shushu and Zhang Xiaofan were locked up in Yudou Grand Prison. Suddenly, a prisoner in the adjacent cell reached out to grab the two of them. Zeng Shushu saw the token hanging from this person's waist and recognized him as a Ten Thousand Poisons Sect disciple.

Just as the two were feeling bored, Zeng Shushu's maternal grandfather learned that Qingyun Sect disciples had been arrested and hurried to the prison to check, mistakenly identifying Zhang Xiaofan as Zeng Shushu. At the Yudou City Lord's residence, Zeng Shushu couldn't help but ask his maternal grandfather about his recovery. Only then did he learn that his grandfather wasn't ill at all.

It turned out that the Yudou City Lord's two daughters had married into Fenxiang Valley and Qingyun Sect respectively, and had not visited him for many years. He had faked a serious illness with the aim of having them come to visit him. Zeng Shushu learned that his grandfather had also notified Fenxiang Valley and instantly got a headache. It turned out that his cousin, Li Xun, had always been arrogant and dismissive of others.

Zeng Shushu no longer had any interest in touring Yudou City and planned to leave Yudou in a couple of days to find Lu Xueqi and Lin Jingyu. That night, as Zhang Xiaofan was resting, the Blood Devouring Bead on the firestick suddenly sensed a cut on Zhang Xiaofan's finger, emitting streaks of eerie light that shot directly towards his finger.

In his dream, Zhang Xiaofan seemed to comprehend something and suddenly sat up, only to see the stick quietly lying there. The Old City Lord was very pleased, believing Zeng Shushu's investigative direction was correct and accurate. Guard Yan told Zeng Shushu that before the local residents moved away, they believed there was a blood-sucking demon upstream because the deceased had bite marks on their necks and all their blood had been drained.

After many days of investigation at that time, they finally caught the Ten Thousand Poisons Sect disciple who had gone insane. Seeing Zeng Shushu's dedication, the Old City Lord asked him to uncover the truth. At this point, Li Xun, on the grounds that Zeng Shushu's skills were not yet refined, vied to investigate the matter. The Old City Lord had no choice but to make the two of them jointly responsible.

After Zhang Xiaofan went down the mountain, his fellow disciples were very worried about his safety. However, without Zhang Xiaofan's cooking, no one had much appetite for their meals. Tian Ling'er made an excuse that she was full and went to Tongtian Peak to deliver a spirit herb she had grown to Qi Hao to help him cultivate.

Qi Hao held Tian Ling'er's hand and, full of affection, told her that he would take her down the mountain whenever he had the chance. Tian Ling'er happily nestled in Qi Hao's arms. Lin Jingyu and Lu Xueqi lingered in Kongsang Mountain for many days, during which they discovered some anomalies. However, the other party's movement technique was too fast, so they couldn't clearly see who that mysterious figure was.

The two prepared to return to Yudou to check on the situation. It turned out that Jin Ping'er, upon learning of unusual activity in Kongsang Mountain, went to investigate. Discovering the identities of Lin Jingyu and Lu Xueqi as Qingyun Sect disciples, she merely glided past them, not daring to alert them. After Zeng Shushu accepted the mission, he entered Kongsang Mountain with Zhang Xiaofan to begin searching for clues.

Episode 12 Recap

When Zhang Xiaofan and Zeng Shushu were searching for clues in the mountains, they suddenly saw Li Xun being attacked by a group of bats. Although Li Xun conjured a fire dragon, he still couldn't get away. Zhang Xiaofan and Zeng Shushu rushed forward to help, but unexpectedly found themselves in trouble. Just then, a green light flashed by and killed the bat demon.

Afterward, Zhang Xiaofan fell to the ground, helplessly watching his Fire Stick being taken away by a masked green-clad woman. Back in the Lord of Yudou City's mansion, Zhang Xiaofan told Zeng Shushu that he had lost his magic weapon. The two returned to the riverside to search again, but still found nothing. A Xiang prepared to offer a hefty reward to find Zhang Xiaofan's magic weapon.

A Xiang found a green-clad girl eating candied haws on the street and quickly informed Zeng Shushu and Zhang Xiaofan. He believed that this was the only new green-clad girl in Yudou City recently, and moreover, the long, rod-like object in her backpack greatly resembled the Fire Stick. Zeng Shushu saw the girl's light footsteps, her innocent and playful demeanor, and her feigned innocence, so he decided to test her.

Faced with Zeng Shushu's questions, the green-clad girl turned and ran. Zeng Shushu chased after her, and the girl ran behind a diviner. It turned out that this diviner was the green-clad girl's grandfather. Zhang Xiaofan arrived and realized that Zeng Shushu had mistaken the person, so he quickly pulled Zeng Shushu away. When Zeng Shushu and Zhang Xiaofan returned to the Yudou City mansion, the grandfather and granddaughter pair were guests at the City Lord's residence.

The diviner spotted Zeng Shushu and Zhang Xiaofan and wanted to settle accounts with them. The Yudou City Lord quickly told Zeng Shushu to apologize to them. It turned out that the diviner was none other than the itinerant mystic Zhou Yixian, and he was good friends with the Yudou City Lord. The green-clad girl was his granddaughter, Xiaohuan, who had grown up in Yudou City.

The Yudou City Lord was very fond of Xiaohuan and wanted to marry her off to whichever of his grandsons could win the position of City Lord in the future. Xiaohuan told Grandpa Wei that she didn't like Zeng Shushu and Li Xun. The Yudou City Lord then introduced Zhang Xiaofan to Xiaohuan, who shyly smiled and ran away.

It turned out that Xiaohuan felt an immediate connection with Zhang Xiaofan when she saw him, and through her divination skills, she discovered that Zhang Xiaofan was looking for a very important item. The person who had taken Zhang Xiaofan's magic weapon that day was Biyao, the daughter of the Ghost King.

She found that the Fire Stick clearly recognized its master, and for a moment, she couldn't understand why Old Man Nian was able to wield it at Bihuo Tianbing Lake. After losing the Fire Stick, Zhang Xiaofan discovered that his internal qi was chaotic when he meditated, making him unable to suppress the Dafa Banruo and Qingyun cultivation techniques within him. He wanted Xiaohuan to use her "Flick of the Finger Heavenly Secrets" technique to retrieve his magic weapon.

After some deductions, Xiaohuan believed that the person who took Zhang Xiaofan's magic weapon must be someone he had met and knew. When Zhou Yixian heard that the Yudou City Guard Commander intended to use Yudou City as Xiaohuan's dowry, he, who had long suffered from the hardship of traveling far and wide to swindle money, was momentarily tempted. He pulled Xiaohuan aside and asked her who she truly liked.

Xiaohuan lied, claiming she liked Brother Xiaofan, and then grabbed Zhang Xiaofan and ran. Zhang Xiaofan stopped at the entrance of Jinxiu Workshop. He realized that he hadn't interacted with many girls; Tian Ling'er was at Qingyun Mountain, and Lu Xueqi was at Kongsang Mountain, so neither of them would come to take his magic weapon. Zhang Xiaofan suspected that the owner of Jinxiu Workshop was highly suspicious.

Just then, he suddenly saw that familiar green-clad girl emerge from Jinxiu Workshop. Zhang Xiaofan quickly and secretly followed her, pulled off her veil, and only then recognized her as Biyao. Biyao saw the fresh flowers nearby and, on impulse, picked one. Only then did Zhang Xiaofan understand that it was Biyao who had saved him with flower petals that day, and he quickly expressed his gratitude.

He then asked Biyao for his magic weapon, but Biyao told Zhang Xiaofan to ask Lin Jingyu for it instead. Meanwhile, Xiaohuan came over and asked Zhang Xiaofan to participate in the election for Yudou City Lord, to help her keep up the act, otherwise, she would have to marry Li Xun. Zeng Shushu, who had no interest in the position of Yudou City Lord, also urged Zhang Xiaofan to join the election. Zhang Xiaofan hastily declined.

Xiaohuan told them that Li Xun, in his bid for the City Lord position, had volunteered to solve the problem of the poisoned river water and insisted on blowing up the mountain to block the river. Zeng Shushu quickly went to dissuade Li Xun, but Li Xun refused, citing the protection of the common people as his reason.

Zhang Xiaofan told Li Xun that, after investigation, the source of the river pollution was the silt from Kongsang Mountain, and blowing up the mountain to block the river would be useless. Li Xun questioned if there were any other solutions. Zeng Shushu quickly said there was a way but needed a few more days. Li Xun, who was already impatient, disregarded the warnings and cast spells to blow up the mountain and block the river.

Zeng Shushu rushed over to stop Li Xun, and for a moment, the two were locked in a standoff. Just then, Lu Xueqi and Lin Jingyu arrived. Lu Xueqi wielded her Tianya Sword to force Li Xun back, resolving the immediate crisis. With the treatment of the poison being urgent, City Lord Wei asked Zeng Shushu and Li Xun to each come up with a solution, to be decided upon based on their merits and demerits.

City Lord Wei saw that Lu Xueqi and Lin Jingyu were both Zeng Shushu's friends from Qingyun Sect, so he arranged for them to stay in the City Lord's mansion. Zeng Shushu, trying to be accommodating, led Lu Xueqi to a refined room, while having Lin Jingyu and Zhang Xiaofan share a room. That night, Zhang Xiaofan told Lin Jingyu that Biyao was also in Yudou City and had emerged from Jinxiu Workshop that day.

Lin Jingyu didn't believe that the Ghost King Sect would only send Biyao alone, suspecting that there was more to Jinxiu Workshop than met the eye. It turned out that before Lin Jingyu descended the mountain, he had inquired with his master about the demonic sects.

He learned that among the demonic sects, there was a sect called Hehuan Sect (Lustrous Harmony Sect) that was closely related to the Blood Refining Hall, had no male members, and its current leader was a young and beautiful woman – Miao Gongzi. However, over a decade ago, Miao Gongzi had taken the Hehuan Sect away due to an internal conflict within the demonic sects, and her whereabouts had been unknown ever since.

Based on Jin Ping'er's ability to single-handedly repel disciples from Tianyin Pavilion and Qingyun Sect, Lin Jingyu deduced that Jinxiu Workshop must be connected to the mysteriously disappeared Hehuan Sect. As Zeng Shushu led Lu Xueqi to the refined room, they encountered Xiaohuan and Jin Ping'er entering the City Lord's mansion together. Zeng Shushu asked Xiaohuan and learned that Jin Ping'er and City Lord Wei were old friends despite their age difference.

Lu Xueqi noticed the Wuhua Brew in Jin Ping'er's hand. Xiaohuan told her that it was a medicinal wine brewed by Jin Ping'er to strengthen City Lord Wei's health. Lu Xueqi suspected that Jin Ping'er was a member of the demonic cult. To avoid wrongly accusing an innocent person, they planned to gather some evidence to show the old City Lord. At this point, everyone's attention was focused on Zhang Xiaofan.

Zhang Xiaofan decided to divide into two groups: he and Lin Jingyu would investigate the demonic cult's background, while Zeng Shushu and Lu Xueqi would be responsible for solving the water source problem.

Episode 13 Recap

Xiao Huan told Lu Xueqi that Jin Ping'er single-handedly managed Jinxiu Fang and also took in many destitute women who had no fixed abode, which was truly difficult. Lu Xueqi realized Xiao Huan's purpose was to dispel her doubts about Jin Ping'er. Xiao Huan told her that six years ago, she and her grandfather were passing through Xiangnan. Her grandfather accidentally caught a cold and also encountered harassment from bandits.

Fortunately, Jin Ping'er, despite her own injuries, stepped in to save the grandfather and granddaughter. Only then did Xiao Huan and her grandfather survive. Based on this, Xiao Huan believed that Jin Ping'er would not harm Yudou, much less harm Elder Wei. Gou Ye, since the destruction of the Blood Refining Hall, had been wandering homelessly. Fortunately, he met Ghost Doctor, who healed their injuries.

Gou Ye, following Ghost Doctor's guidance, pretended to be pitiful and begged Bi Yao to take in the remaining disciples of the Blood Refining Hall. This way, they could also assist the Ghost King Sect in capturing Yudou City and finding Myriad Bat Cave. Bi Yao believed Gou Ye was using the opportunity of defecting to the Ghost King Sect to revitalize the Blood Refining Hall. After Gou Ye swore, he revealed that he indeed had this intention.

Bi Yao utterly looked down upon these remnants of a defeated army, fearful like homeless dogs, and asked Gou Ye what he could actually do. Gou Ye told Bi Yao that within the complicated Yudou City, the founder of the Blood Refining Hall, Old Man Black Heart, and Madame Jin Ling of the Joyous Union Sect had a deep and righteous bond.

The Joyous Union Sect would, to some extent, give him face because of this, which could expand their power to contend with the righteous sects. Bi Yao agreed to Gou Ye's request. Also wanting to win over Jinxiu Fang was Li Xun of Incense Valley. Upon arriving in Yudou City, he placed a large order with Jinxiu Fang. Jin Ping'er naturally understood the principle of reciprocating favors.

She used the name of City Lord Wei to repeatedly praise Li Xun for his proper conduct and noble demeanor, hoping that Li Xun would take good care of Jinxiu Fang after assuming the position of Yudou City Lord. It turned out that Jin Ping'er had long seen through Li Xun's arrogance and disdain for others.

However, Zeng Shushu had no interest in the position of Yudou City Lord at all, so she could only hope that Li Xun would continue to provide shelter to Jinxiu Fang in the complicated future, ensuring the safety of the Jinxiu Fang sisters and preventing them from getting involved in the conflict between righteous and demonic sects. At this moment, Bi Yao arrived again with the Ghost King Token to win over Jin Ping'er.

It turned out that Jin Ping'er was the Elegant Young Master who had led the Joyous Union Sect away from Jade Firmament Palace more than ten years ago. The Elegant Young Master refused to accept the Ghost King Token offered by Bi Yao, citing the preservation of the Joyous Union Sect as her reason. Gou Ye quickly stepped forward to remind the Elegant Young Master to remember the century-old alliance with the Blood Refining Hall.

The Elegant Young Master politely refused Gou Ye on the grounds that the Blood Refining Hall had already been destroyed. Gou Ye told the Elegant Young Master that the Blood Refining Hall had now defected to the Ghost King Sect and hoped that the Joyous Union Sect would lend a hand when the Blood Refining Hall was in trouble.

The Elegant Young Master proposed that if Bi Yao could produce the Blood-Devouring Pearl and the Golden Bell, these two tokens of the Blood Refining Hall and the Joyous Union Sect, then the Joyous Union Sect would naturally abide by the agreement and obey the holder's command; otherwise, everything was off the table.

Lin Jingyu, who had already learned about A Xiang's situation from Zeng Shushu, accused him, as a disciple of Heavenly Sound Pavilion, of allowing demonic sects to commit evil here. A Xiang told Lin Jingyu that the rule of Yudou City was that as long as one did not commit evil within Yudou City, both righteous and demonic sects could reside there.

It was precisely because successive City Lords of Yudou City believed in the equality of all beings and had no sectarian prejudice that the city had flourished to this day. At this moment, Ding Ling came to Shanhai Yuan to find A Xiang. It turned out that after hearing Jin Ping'er's words, Ding Ling wanted to help Jinxiu Fang solidify its place of refuge.

A Xiang, hearing that Ding Ling only came to visit him after being persuaded by Jin Ping'er, criticized her for lacking her own opinion and joining the demonic sect, stating that he could not explain this to his sect. Upon hearing this, Ding Ling firmly demanded to break off their engagement, so that A Xiang could explain it to his sect.

Zeng Shushu meticulously crafted a sand table of Yudou City, hoping to find a solution to the river pollution problem based on it. Lu Xueqi advised Zeng Shushu to fully utilize his talents to govern Yudou City. Zeng Shushu, who yearned for freedom, was utterly unwilling to stay in Yudou City. Lu Xueqi told Zeng Shushu that a person must be responsible. At this moment, Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu rushed in from outside.

They informed Lu Xueqi and Zeng Shushu about the complex situation in Yudou City. They speculated that Bi Yao and the Joyous Union Sect should be unrelated to the river pollution. Zhang Xiaofan suddenly remembered the disciples of Myriad Poison Sect.

At this time, the three righteous sects of Qingyun Sect, Heavenly Sound Pavilion, and Incense Valley, and the three demonic sects of Joyous Union Sect, Ghost King Sect, and Myriad Poison Sect had all gathered in Yudou City, all coming for the Myriad Bat Cave in Mount Kongsang. Lin Jingyu and Lu Xueqi went to the prison and discovered that the Myriad Poison Sect disciple was already dead.

They immediately asked Guard Yan to take them to the place where the Myriad Poison Sect disciple was first found. Lu Xueqi realized that the source of pollution should be at the headwaters of this river. Guard Yan told them that the streams in Mount Kongsang crisscrossed and had many tributaries, making it difficult to find anything. At this moment, Lu Xueqi noticed some red petals appearing with the water flow.

She suddenly remembered similar petals she had seen on Mount Kongsang that day and decided to go into the mountains herself to investigate. Guard Yan heard this and showed a suspicious look on his face. Meanwhile, in Yudou City, Zhang Xiaofan and Xi Huan were intensely rehearsing for the Mid-Autumn Festival performance. During this time, Xiao Huan said her clothes were too big and she needed to go to Jinxiu Fang to have Jin Ping'er alter them.

Zeng Shushu wanted Lin Jingyu to go, hoping to ease his relationship with Jin Ping'er. Lin Jingyu and Jin Ping'er got into an argument due to their differing attitudes towards righteous and demonic sects. At this moment, Gou Ye, as the head of the Blood Refining Hall, led people to force Jin Ping'er to accept the Ghost King Token, intending for the Joyous Union Sect and the Ghost King Sect to cooperate.

Seeing Jin Ping'er stubbornly refuse to cooperate, Gou Ye immediately drew his sword and advanced on Jin Ping'er. Lin Jingyu, seeing the injustice, advised Gou Ye to abide by the rules of Yudou City. Gou Ye wanted to have a match with Lin Jingyu. In just a few moves, Lin Jingyu defeated Gou Ye.

Lin Jingyu followed Gou Ye to see Bi Yao, accusing her of condoning her subordinates causing trouble in Yudou City, and once again demanded Zhang Xiaofan's magical artifact back from Bi Yao. Bi Yao asked Lin Jingyu to agree to one condition: to meet her by the Qing River during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Lu Xueqi, returning from Mount Kongsang, took out the red flowers for everyone to identify. Zhang Xiaofan confirmed that it was indeed that scent.

Everyone decided to enter the mountains together after the Mid-Autumn Festival to uncover the truth. Zhang Xiaofan was pleasantly surprised to receive his lost and recovered magical artifact. That night, Zhang Xiaofan discovered that ever since arriving in Yudou City, his magical artifact and his internal energy often showed abnormal fluctuations.

Episode 14 Recap

Zhang Xiaofan deduced from the petals Lu Xueqi brought that someone must be planting poisonous flowers on Kongsang Mountain, and the Wandu Sect disciple who died of poisoning was their experimental sacrifice. Lu Xueqi decided to go to Kongsang Mountain to look for Wandu Sect disciples. Seeing Zhang Xiaofan's coherent analysis, Lu Xueqi cast aside her prejudice against him, feeling that Zhang Xiaofan had suddenly become clever.

Similarly, Zhang Xiaofan also thought it incredible that the usually cold Lu Xueqi could come up with a method of raising funds through acting. Lu Xueqi told Zhang Xiaofan that she was inspired by a circus from outside the Great Wall, but she was unwilling to answer Zhang Xiaofan's question about whether she had been to the frontier regions.

Jin Ping'er found Li Xun on the pretext of delivering clothes to Xiao Huan, asking him to help solve the troubles Jinxiu Workshop had encountered in recent days. Li Xun naturally agreed generously, and took the opportunity to tell Jin Ping'er that he had originally planned to blast mountains and cut off canals to quickly solve the water source problem, unlike Zeng Shushu, who spent a lot of manpower and resources to build canals, incurring public resentment.

Li Xun wanted to find a reason to make Zeng Shushu retreat in the face of difficulties and abandon the idea of building canals. Jin Ping'er, who was eager to find a backer in Li Xun, naturally agreed without hesitation and would follow all of Li Xun's arrangements. As soon as Jin Ping'er left Li Xun, she met Zeng Shushu.

Zeng Shushu hoped that Jin Ping'er, regarding the matter of the new City Lord of Yudou City, would consider the welfare of the people of Yudou City and make a careful decision. Jin Ping'er told Zeng Shushu that as long as he was interested in the position of City Lord of Yudou City, she would fully support him; otherwise, the question of support would not exist.

During the Mid-Autumn Festival, Lin Jingyu came to the Qinghe River bank to fulfill his appointment. He questioned Bi Yao, asking if the strange problems with Zhang Xiaofan's magic weapon were related to her. Bi Yao told Lin Jingyu that no matter what methods she used on the magic weapon, she could not interfere with Zhang Xiaofan's internal energy; the problems were entirely Zhang Xiaofan's own. Then, Bi Yao asked the purpose of Zhang Xiaofan's visit to Yudou City.

Lin Jingyu answered truthfully, saying it was to guard against the Demonic Sect. Bi Yao criticized the so-called righteous cultivators' misunderstanding of the Ghost King Sect. Lin Jingyu, deeply influenced by the righteous cultivators, naturally got into an argument with Bi Yao, urging her to abandon the darkness for light and leave the Ghost King Sect.

Bi Yao turned and left without a word, and only then did Lin Jingyu realize that they were on different paths that would not converge. Zhang Xiaofan learned about the argument between Lin Jingyu and Bi Yao. He persuaded Bi Yao, pointing out that both she and Lin Jingyu had disagreements due to miscommunication (lit. " hearts not matching mouths").

He then invited Bi Yao to the stage to watch the play Zeng Shushu was rehearsing, saying that she would naturally understand everything then. On the stage, Zeng Shushu saw Zhang Xiaofan and Xiao Huan dressed handsomely and jokingly suggested they just get married, so Zhang Xiaofan could become the City Lord of Yudou City and gain both fame and beauty. Zhang Xiaofan simply replied that he would "take in" Zeng Shushu.

Lu Xueqi was suddenly inspired and went with Lin Jingyu outside the city to find where Guard Yan had buried the Wandu Sect disciple. They found that the corpse had turned into blood and seeped into the soil. Lu Xueqi could not figure out what kind of potent poison this was and wondered if it was related to the picked petals. Zhou Yixian pulled City Lord Wei to go watch the play.

City Lord Wei refused, citing discomfort, and told Zhou Yixian that he indeed felt unwell but couldn't identify the cause of his illness. Zeng Shushu searched for a long time but couldn't find Xiao Huan. As the time for the show approached, Zeng Shushu saw Bi Yao, who had come looking for Lin Jingyu, and a sudden idea came to him: he wanted Bi Yao to replace Xiao Huan in this grand play. The grand play began as scheduled.

After Zeng Shushu's opening remarks, Bi Yao and Zhang Xiaofan descended from the sky like celestial beings walking on water, drawing rounds of applause from the audience. On stage, they performed the love-hate story of Sword One of the Righteous Path and Pineapple of the Demonic Sect, a play Zeng Shushu had written based on the past events of the Qingyun Sect. Unexpectedly, due to hasty preparation, Bi Yao forgot her lines and went straight backstage.

Zhang Xiaofan followed Bi Yao, and suddenly felt a pang of sadness in his heart, his eyes bloodshot. Bi Yao realized that Zhang Xiaofan was being affected by the magic weapon, but Zhang Xiaofan insisted on finishing the play. Jin Ping'er used medicated wine to drug the guards, and together with Li Xun, took advantage of the crowd watching the grand play to break into Zeng Shushu's room, where they saw his designed canal model.

Although Li Xun verbally dismissed Zeng Shushu as idle and only interested in ingenious gadgets, he still told Jin Ping'er to destroy everything. Jin Ping'er advised Li Xun that it was only to teach them a lesson, there was no need to be so heartless. No sooner had Jin Ping'er finished speaking than the wooden bird invented by Zeng Shushu mimicked her words.

Li Xun tried to catch the wooden bird, but it hid under the desk, leaving Li Xun at a loss. Jin Ping'er, fearing discovery, urged Li Xun to leave quickly. At this moment, she saw a red dragonfly, which she had never seen in Yudou City, resting on a petal. Meanwhile, on the stage, Zhang Xiaofan and Bi Yao's performance was nearing its climax.

Bi Yao seemed to recall the dangerous situation she and her mother had encountered, and her heartfelt performance on stage moved the audience to tears. At this point, Bi Yao was too deeply immersed in the role and sat dazed on the stage. Zeng Shushu had to call her over. The performance continued. Bi Yao, already deeply immersed in her role, disregarded the script and pulled Sword One, played by Zhang Xiaofan, to leave together.

On the stage, Bi Yao and Zhang Xiaofan were seen hand-in-hand, suddenly ascending into the air, like a pair of celestial lovers. What they didn't know was that Xiao Huan, while tidying costumes backstage, was suddenly kidnapped by people sent by Grandpa Dog. Grandpa Dog believed that the Qingyun Sect disciples had offended Young Mistress Bi Yao, and intended to vent his anger on Bi Yao's behalf in this way.

Xiao Huan deduced Grandpa Dog's past and future, and Grandpa Dog hurriedly untied her. Xiao Huan tricked Grandpa Dog and took the opportunity to escape. Grandpa Dog failed to catch Xiao Huan and decided to go with his subordinates to cause trouble behind the stage, to prevent Zhang Xiaofan and others from performing the play.

Just as Grandpa Dog was about to cast a spell to set the stage on fire, Lu Xueqi arrived in time, injured Grandpa Dog, and thus ensured the performance proceeded smoothly. The performance was an unprecedented success. Although the righteous and demonic factions were irreconcilable, Lin Jingyu, who could discern good from evil, still expressed his gratitude to Bi Yao.

Seeing Lin Jingyu continuously releasing sky lanterns, Zhang Xiaofan couldn't help but tell Lu Xueqi about the tragic scene of losing his loved ones during the slaughter of Grass Temple Village. Lu Xueqi understood that this was the root of Zhang Xiaofan's inner demons on the day of the Grand Competition of the Seven Meridians.

Just as Lu Xueqi was about to tell Zhang Xiaofan about her own background, Zeng Shushu came over and invited them to release sky lanterns together, creating a lively and festive scene throughout Yudou City.

Episode 15 Recap

Back in the City Lord's Manor of Yudou, Zeng Shushu led Lin Jingyu to see his newly developed invention. Unexpectedly, he couldn't find the blueprints anywhere. It was then that he received news that the silver vault had been robbed. Such an incident occurred in Yudou City, which usually had doors open even at night. Lord Wei was furious, scolding Yan Lie for his inadequate defense.

Li Xun, crying "stop thief" while being the thief himself, falsely accused that all these matters were related to the Demonic Cult. Lord Wei instructed Yan Lie to investigate the whereabouts of the blueprints and the collected silver. Zeng Shushu returned to his workshop and found the wooden parrot saying, "Teach him a lesson." Everyone speculated that these were the words of the thief, which the parrot had mimicked. Lin Jingyu suspected it might be Bi Yao's doing.

Zhang Xiaofan refuted this, citing Bi Yao's sincere help to him. Lu Xueqi heard their conversation and turned to walk away. At this moment, the wooden parrot again imitated the thief, saying, "Young Master, teach him a lesson." Zhang Xiaofan guessed that Li Xun might be behind it. Bi Yao learned that Granddaddy Dog had kidnapped Xiao Huan, causing trouble and acting, so she told him to go back to Fox Qishan.

Just then, Lu Xueqi, who had come to confront Bi Yao, mistakenly thought that Granddaddy Dog was instigated by Bi Yao to cause trouble from behind and then steal the blueprints and collected silver. At this point, the wooden parrot, invented by Zeng Shushu, came to deliver a message, telling Lu Xueqi that the thief had been found and asked her to hurry back.

Meanwhile, Lord Wei was worrying about the selection of the new city lord: Although Zeng Shushu was kind-hearted, he was unfamiliar with human suffering and often acted unconventionally, still needing more experience; although Li Xun was steady in his actions, he was arrogant and intolerant of others, even Zeng Shushu.

The aging Lord Wei felt that in this complex situation, he must quickly find a new city lord with an open mind and the skill to manage people, so that the people of Yudou City could live in peace and prosperity. After listening to Yan Lie's analysis, Lord Wei decided to observe his two grandsons for a while longer, while also instructing Yan Lie to assist the new city lord well.

Xiao Huan told Jin Ping'er that rumors outside said she was the "Mysterious Young Master" of the Hehuan Sect, fearing that Brocade Pavilion would get into trouble.

Jin Ping'er told Xiao Huan that she would keep her distance from them in the complex situation and asked Xiao Huan to take good care of the two grandfathers, as Xiao Huan had once shortened her own lifespan to drive away evil spirits for her sake, a friendship she would never dare to betray. Just then, Ding Ling came over and told Jin Ping'er that someone was looking for her.

It turned out that Yan Lie had come to verify if Jin Ping'er was involved in last night's theft case. Facing Yan Lie's questioning, Jin Ping'er defended herself by stating that she had delivered wine to the old city lord. Medical experts from all sides gathered at the City Lord's Manor, but none knew what poison Xiao Huan had been afflicted with; they were all at a loss. Zhang Xiaofan asked Bi Yao why Xiao Huan was in her hands.

Bi Yao falsely claimed that Xiao Huan had slandered her, so she had shown her a "bad side." Zhang Xiaofan believed Bi Yao wouldn't do such a thing and asked if she could cure the poison. Bi Yao demanded Lu Xueqi kowtow and apologize to her, but the proud Lu Xueqi flicked her sleeves and left. Both Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu offered to kowtow and apologize on behalf of Lu Xueqi.

Only then did Bi Yao tell them that she would take responsibility for Granddaddy Dog's troublemaking, but Xiao Huan was indeed rescued by Granddaddy Dog. With deeds offsetting each other, their grievances were now cleared. To cure Xiao Huan's poisoning, they had to go to Kongsang Mountain before sunset to pick a medicinal herb called Cliff Swallow Grass.

Zhang Xiaofan believed Bi Yao's words were true, so he asked Lin Jingyu to go back to where Xiao Huan collapsed to investigate further, while he himself went to Kongsang Mountain to search for Cliff Swallow Grass. Yan Lie was originally an undercover agent of the Wandu Sect in Yudou City. His mission was to eliminate Jin Ping'er, thereby instigating a conflict between the righteous and demonic factions, allowing the Wandu Sect to profit from it.

However, at this time, Zhou Yixian's granddaughter suddenly got poisoned, and Qingyun Sect disciples were heading to Kongsang Mountain. Yan Lie quickly reported this situation to his senior brother. However, his senior brother believed that the Qingyun Sect disciples were not a cause for concern and told Yan Lie to focus on dealing with Jin Ping'er. Seeing Xiao Huan unconscious, Lord Wei was heartbroken and suddenly collapsed as well.

Doctors examining his pulse found that his symptoms were somewhat similar to Xiao Huan's, but the poison he had suffered from was accumulated over time. Yan Lie, who was nearby, told everyone that Lord Wei had almost no contact with food of unknown origin, but Jin Ping'er had once delivered medicated wine to the old city lord. Just as Jin Ping'er and Lin Jingyu returned to Brocade Pavilion, Yan Lie arrived with men, waiting to arrest her.

Lin Jingyu tried to stop Yan Lie, claiming there was a misunderstanding. Yan Lie ordered his subordinates to bring out the Five Blossom Brew that Jin Ping'er had given to Lord Wei and pointed out Jin Ping'er's identity as the "Mysterious Young Master" of the Hehuan Sect. Jin Ping'er refuted this by stating that her relationship with Lord Wei was like that of a father and child, demonstrating that she had no motive to harm him.

Yan Lie asked Jin Ping'er to personally taste the wine to see if it was poisonous. Lin Jingyu suddenly thought of another method; he picked up the wine from the jar and poured it onto a plant, and the lush flowering plant immediately withered. Lin Jingyu told Jin Ping'er that he would definitely investigate this matter thoroughly to clear her name.

Zhang Xiaofan, after enduring countless hardships, finally managed to collect Cliff Swallow Grass on a sheer cliff in Kongsang Mountain. Unexpectedly, he missed his footing, and his cry of alarm attracted two Wandu Sect disciples. Zhang Xiaofan quickly grabbed onto a rock crevice, not daring to make another sound, so nervous that he didn't even notice his medicine bag had fallen.

Zhang Xiaofan overheard the conversation between the two Wandu Sect disciples and learned that the Wandu Sect was developing poisons. Zhang Xiaofan followed these two Wandu Sect disciples until they reached their lair in Kongsang Mountain. He overheard the conversation between the Wandu Sect master and his subordinates, learning that they indeed intended to take over Yudou City, but they did not yet know the effects of the beast blood gu they were developing.

Suddenly, several blood dragonflies flew towards Zhang Xiaofan. He had no choice but to use his magic to defend himself, but he was discovered and captured by the Wandu Sect master. From Yan Lie's confident expression, Lin Jingyu discovered that he was suspected of poisoning. At this time, they realized that Zhang Xiaofan had not yet returned, and were immediately worried. They sought out Lu Xueqi to discuss.

Lu Xueqi suspected that Bi Yao sending them to Kongsang Mountain to collect Cliff Swallow Grass might be a trap. Lin Jingyu quickly went to Bi Yao to inquire about the truth. Bi Yao accused them of sending the most foolish and least skilled Zhang Xiaofan to handle this matter.

Episode 16 Recap

Bi Yao told Lin Jingyu that the Cliff Swallow Herb was a flower that bloomed next to Saintess Linglong of Miao Territory when she entered nirvana. This flower could suppress the Beast God and perhaps detoxify. Lin Jingyu realized Xiao Fan would be in danger and rushed to find him; Bi Yao wanted to go along. Lin Jingyu believed that the Ghost King Sect, where Bi Yao belonged, and the Myriad Poison Sect were both Demonic Sects.

If he fought them, he wouldn't be able to explain it to the Ghost King. Bi Yao told Lin Jingyu that the Ghost King Sect was completely different from the so-called righteous sects and wouldn't say one thing to your face and do another behind your back. Lin Jingyu had no choice but to search for Xiao Fan with Bi Yao. They found Xiao Fan's dropped medicine bag, realizing Zhang Xiaofan was nearby.

The leader of the Myriad Poison Sect, Poison God, interrogated Zhang Xiaofan about Qingyun Sect's purpose in Yudu. Zhang Xiaofan naturally refused to answer. Poison God decided to have his disciples absorb Zhang Xiaofan's Qingyun Sect cultivation power, then turn him into a Medicine Man. As Lin Jingyu and Bi Yao searched for Zhang Xiaofan, they noticed that all the Blood Dragonflies were flying into the mist.

Bi Yao realized there was poison in the mist and decided to go investigate the situation. Lin Jingyu worriedly grabbed Bi Yao's wrist. Bi Yao told Lin Jingyu that she had taken a Pi Gu Dan (Anti-Gu Poison Pill) given by Poison God during an alliance when she was little, so Myriad Poison Sect's magic had almost no effect on her. Even so, Lin Jingyu was not at ease letting Bi Yao go in alone.

He prepared to distract the Myriad Poison Sect disciples lurking in the mist to cover Bi Yao's search for Zhang Xiaofan's whereabouts. Hearing this, Bi Yao was very pleased and eagerly went to look for Zhang Xiaofan. When the Myriad Poison Sect disciples tried to absorb Zhang Xiaofan's cultivation method, they found they couldn't do it at all and were instead harmed by Zhang Xiaofan's own cultivation method.

Zhang Xiaofan, stimulated intensely by the outside force, suddenly exerted power, broke free from his shackles, and escaped the cell, coincidentally encountering Bi Yao. Bi Yao helped Xiao Fan into a cave to heal his injuries. Zhang Xiaofan believed they were near the Myriad Poison Sect and could only wait and see how things developed. Zhang Xiaofan's words brought back memories of Bi Yao's mother. Zhang Xiaofan decided to send Bi Yao to her father.

Bi Yao couldn't believe that the martial-arts-mediocre Zhang Xiaofan could say such things, and she was very comforted. Poison God flew into a rage upon hearing that Zhang Xiaofan had escaped. He believed Zhang Xiaofan was poisoned and couldn't have run very far, so he ordered his disciples to follow the Blood Dragonflies to find the poisoned Zhang Xiaofan.

Bi Yao discovered many Blood Dragonflies suddenly flying into the cave and quickly helped Zhang Xiaofan run outside, reaching the edge of a cliff. At this moment, Myriad Poison Sect disciples, following the Blood Dragonflies, chased them. Bi Yao and Zhang Xiaofan quickly channeled their energy to resist. Bi Yao's magic suddenly seemed to fail. Zhang Xiaofan saw Bi Yao was in a critical situation and quickly shielded her.

Both of them were struck down the cliff by a palm strike from a Myriad Poison Sect disciple. Bi Yao finally awoke from her coma and, seeing the unconscious Zhang Xiaofan, decided to use the Sorrowful Flower to heal him. At this moment, Zhang Xiaofan suddenly grabbed Bi Yao. He was relieved that he had protected Bi Yao and refused to let her heal him again, telling her to live well. After saying this, Zhang Xiaofan fainted again.

Bi Yao held Zhang Xiaofan in her arms, utterly heartbroken. Just then, a middle-aged man in plain clothes suddenly walked over from the side. After examining Zhang Xiaofan, he concluded that Zhang Xiaofan was gravely poisoned, and his meridians were completely severed when he fell off the cliff. The poison had already spread to all his internal organs, and not even Great Luo Immortals descending to earth could save him.

Bi Yao truly did not want to see Zhang Xiaofan die like this. She found that although Zhang Xiaofan had stopped breathing, a wisp of his spiritual consciousness was still hidden in his magical artifact. Bi Yao deduced that this must be due to the spiritual energy of the cliff. The plain-clothed man asked Bi Yao how she knew, and Bi Yao quickly revealed her identity—the daughter of the Ghost King, master of the Ghost Dao.

The plain-clothed man told Bi Yao that this cliff was called Stargazing Cliff. There was indeed spiritual energy within the cliff, hidden in the Heaven and Earth Nether Stone. This stone, besides granting them immortality, also supported the entire Stargazing Cliff, forming a barrier and concealing itself in the mountains. Stargazing Cliff was the source of spiritual energy for the entire Kongsang Mountain and even Yudu City.

However, this spiritual stone had endured for hundreds of years, and its divine power had gradually weakened. Now, the Myriad Poison Sect was watching covetously from one side, and they worried that if they saved Zhang Xiaofan, the spiritual stone's barrier would inevitably decay, so they dared not rashly offer help. Meanwhile, Lin Jingyu captured a Myriad Poison Sect disciple from Kongsang Mountain.

Zeng Shushu, using both gentle and tough tactics, finally pried open the disciple's mouth and learned about Poison God refining medicine on Kongsang Mountain. Just then, Yan Lie arrived. Upon seeing Yan Lie, the disciple was terrified. Zeng Shushu told Yan Lie that the water source was polluted entirely because of the Myriad Poison Sect's mischief. Yan Lie pretended to want to encircle and suppress the Myriad Poison Sect on Kongsang Mountain.

Lin Jingyu told him that the Kongsang Mountain valley was filled with poisonous miasma, and going there would only startle the enemy. Yan Lie seized the opportunity to take away the Myriad Poison Sect disciple. To save Zhang Xiaofan, Bi Yao prepared to leave Stargazing Cliff to eliminate the Myriad Poison Sect. She entrusted Zhang Xiaofan to the Cliff Master.

The Cliff Master saw that Bi Yao and Zhang Xiaofan's fates were intertwined and would remain so for a lifetime, and that Bi Yao might even die because of Zhang Xiaofan in the future. He advised Bi Yao not to risk saving Zhang Xiaofan. Bi Yao told the Cliff Master that what mattered most right now was that she would not watch Zhang Xiaofan die.

With that, Bi Yao soared into the air and headed straight for the Myriad Poison Sect. Poison God activated his magical artifact and finally succeeded in refining the Beast Spirit Blood Gu. At this moment, Poison God no longer feared the Ghost King Sect. Just then, a disciple reported that You Ji, the Vermilion Bird Saint Envoy of the Ghost King Sect, requested an audience.

It turned out that Bi Yao had learned from You Ji that she and Poison God had a past connection, which was why Bi Yao used illusion magic to impersonate You Ji. Poison God was naturally overjoyed to see his old acquaintance. He then demanded that she leave Fox Ridge Mountain and join the Myriad Poison Sect.

Bi Yao was about to pull out a dagger to assassinate Poison God when suddenly, a Myriad Poison Sect disciple told Poison God that two disciples of the Qingyun Sect had broken in. Hearing this, Poison God quickly wanted to deal with the Qingyun Sect disciples before reminiscing with You Ji. Bi Yao seized the opportunity to go to the room where Poison God refined his poisonous Gu and took out the poisonous Gu he had refined.

When Bi Yao rushed into the courtyard, she saw the Myriad Poison Sect controlling Medicine Men to surround Lin Jingyu and Lu Xueqi. She quickly cast a spell, making these Medicine Men rush towards Poison God and his followers instead.

Episode 17 Recap

The Yaoren (medicinal humans) did not obey the Poison King and instead charged at the Ten Thousand Poison Sect disciples becauseBiyao had tampered with the Beast God's Blood Gu. OnceBiyao used her magic, all the Yaoren naturally charged at the Poison King. Biyao, Lin Jingyu, and Lu Xueqi jointly repelled the Poison King. Lin Jingyu learned fromBiyao that Zhang Xiaofan was at Guanxing Cliff and wanted to go there with her. However, Lu Xueqi didn't believeBiyao.

She told Lin Jingyu to return to Yudu City to report, informing Prefect Wei to send people to thoroughly investigate the area. She herself would go withBiyao to Guanxing Cliff to find out what was happening. Inside Guanxing Cliff, the Cliff Master placed Zhang Xiaofan under a spirit stone and immediately cast a spell. A green light shot straight into the sky. Biyao silently prayed for Zhang Xiaofan. Zhang Xiaofan finally slowly opened his eyes and called outBiyao's name.

Biyao eagerly ran forward, extremely happy in her heart. After Zhang Xiaofan woke up, he discovered that although the Heaven and Earth Underworld Stone helped him reconstruct his meridians and suppress the poison, his internal energy was obstructed. Bìyáo and Zhang Xiaofan developed mutual affection because they had both saved each other. Their eyes met, full of deep emotion. Zhang Xiaofan toldBiyao that during his unconsciousness, with just a sliver of consciousness, he had always felt her by his side.

The two of them looked at each other like that for a very long time. Biyao finally had to leave. Zhang Xiaofan watched her figure disappear, then turned his head to see Lu Xueqi watching him from behind. Lu Xueqi admired Zhang Xiaofan for sacrificing himself to save someone, but the person he saved wasBiyao, a member of the Demonic Sect.

Lu Xueqi reminded Zhang Xiaofan that he and Lin Jingyu seemed to be getting deeper and deeper into issues concerning the Demonic Sect, and they must rein themselves in before it was too late. All the mechanisms set up by the Ten Thousand Poison Sect in KongsangMountain were destroyed. The Poison God was severely injured and had no choice but to hand the Beast Spirit Blood Gu to Yan Lie, telling him to seize the opportunity to take Yudu City.

It turned out that Yan Lie was none other than Qin Wuyan, the infamous Poison Young Master of the Ten Thousand Poison Sect. After Prefect Wei and Xiaohuandrank Cliff Swallow Grass, their poisoning symptoms greatly improved. Zeng Shushu believed that this matter had nothing to do with Jin Ping'er and was preparing to release her.

Yan Lie told Zeng Shushu that after all, poisoned wine was found in the Jinxiu Workshop, and it couldn't be ruled out that she was colluding with the Ten Thousand Poison Sect. If Jin Ping'er was released and then threatened the safety of Yudu City again, they wouldn't know what measures to take. Prefect Wei believed that it was precisely his past indulgence that led to today's great disaster.

Now, for the safety of Yudu City's citizens, he instructed Yan Lie to thoroughly investigate the Demonic Sect's situation and not to release Jin Ping'er rashly. This experience of coming back from the brink of death gave Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu an added trust inBiyao. However, Zhang Xiaofan grew suspicious of Yan Lie, who had only arrived in Yudu City five years ago to be responsible for the city's internal and external security.

Yan Lie informed Prefect Wei that investigations revealed Li Xun and Jin Ping'er had jointly stolen the canal repair blueprints and donated silver. Prefect Wei initially didn't believe Li Xun would do such a thing. Yan Lie secretly used a spell, chanting incantations to control Prefect Wei's mind. The old Prefect immediately changed his attitude, telling Yan Lie to investigate thoroughly, after which he would personally interrogate them. Xiaohuanwas now able to walk down. Zeng Shushu helped her walk outside.

He told Xiaohuanthat after his grandfather was poisoned, his temper became increasingly worse and he wouldn't listen to others' advice. At this moment, Zhou Yixian, who had already checked Prefect Wei's pulse, told Zeng Shushu that the old Prefect's pulse was good and he was not in serious danger. Zeng Shushu was still worried about his grandfather and stayed with Prefect Wei until late at night.

After seeing his grandfather wake up, Zeng Shushu pestered him to tell him the story of Gonggong and Zhuanxufighting for emperorship, leading Gonggong to angrily strike Mount Buzhou, once more. The next day, facing the stolen goods provided by Yan Lie, Prefect Wei and Zeng Shushu were both very angry. Li Xun admitted that he and Jin Ping'er had stolen the blueprints together.

However, he argued that he had never lacked food or clothing since childhood, so he had no need to steal the donated silver, implying someone must have framed him. Prefect Wei flew into a rage, completely disregarding Li Xun's defense, and ordered him back to FenxiangValley. After that, Prefect Wei had Yan Lie expel Jin Ping'er from Yudu City. A Xiang requested Yan Lie to allow Jin Ping'er and Ding Ling to speak a few more words.

Jin Ping'er told Ding Ling to be careful in her actions from now on, to protect Jinxiu Workshop as a place where their sisters could establish themselves, and that she would return soon. A Xiang informed Zhang Xiaofan, Lin Jingyu, and others that Yan Lie had divided Jinxiu Workshop into front and back sections, using the excuse that Jin Ping'er still had accomplices.

Embroiderers could only move about in the front hall, and city guards were even ordered to supervise their activities. Lin Jingyu believed that after the Ten Thousand Poison Sect left, there shouldn't be any problems in Yudu City. When A Xiang heard Lin Jingyu mention the Ten Thousand Poison Sect, he complained that they didn't take him along when they stormed KongsangMountain, making him miss the chance to settle scores with the Ten Thousand Poison Sect.

This was because when the Ten Thousand Poison Sect attacked the Heavenly Sound Pavilion, they stole the golden censer that the Heavenly Sound Pavilion used for refining medicine. Zhang Xiaofan recalled that when he was captured by the Poison God, he had seen them use a green censer. The Poison God seemed to have been planning for a long time. Although the Poison God had fled severely injured, they still needed to be careful and guard against his return.

Lin Jingyu analyzed that after Li Xun stole the blueprints, his goal would have been achieved, so there was no need to steal the donated silver. Conversely, Yan Lie acted decisively and was unfathomable, perhaps he had framed Li Xun. A Xiang, however, believed that if Yan Lie wanted to frame the Prefect, he wouldn't need to go to such great lengths. For a moment, everyone was divided in their opinions.

Lin Jingyu and Zhang Xiaofan soughtBiyao's advice regarding the Ten Thousand Poison Sect. Biyao told Lin Jingyu that since ancient times, the righteous and demonic factions have been irreconcilable, and the Ghost King Sect and the Ten Thousand Poison Sect were allies. She would not betray her allies, otherwise she wouldn't be able to account to her father, and was unwilling to answer their questions.

Lin Jingyu toldBiyao that she had already fought with the Ten Thousand Poison Sect and injured the Poison God, and the Ghost King would know sooner or later. Biyao told them that fighting with the Ten Thousand Poison Sect was precisely to help righteous people like them. Based on the fact that the Poison God andBiyao had ruthlessly tried to kill each other, Zhang Xiaofan deduced that the Ten Thousand Poison Sect and the Ghost King Sect were not allies.

Biyao was surprised that Zhang Xiaofan had guessed this fact correctly again. She told Lin Jingyu that if the Demonic Sect united, the righteous path might not be their match. Lin Jingyu expressed his reluctance to fightBiyao. Only then didBiyao tell them that the Ten Thousand Poison Sect originated in the Southern Border and was previously an unknown small sect. Until one disciple accidentally obtained a "Poison Scripture" and a "Zhan Xiangsi" (Love-Severing Blade) in the Death Marsh.

He used Zhan Xiangsi to kill everyone who opposed him, proclaimed himself the Poison God, and used the Ten Thousand Gu Pill to control three capable subordinates: the Bloodsucking Old Demon, Baiduzi (Hundred Poisons Master), and the Poison Young Master Qin Wuyan.

Episode 18 Recap

Lin Jingyu and Biyao had already fought against the Vampire Old Demon and Baiduzi at the Ten Thousand Poisons Sect, but they had never met the Poison Young Master Qin Wuyan. Biyao guessed that the Poison Young Master might be hiding in Yudou City. Based on Yan Lie's attitude towards Jin Ping'er, Zhang Xiaofan deduced that Yan Lie was indeed the Poison Young Master Qin Wuyan. Biyao prepared to test Yan Lie to find evidence.

Biyao and Zhang Xiaofan put on the Ghost King Sect's disciples' clothes and went to Jinxiu Workshop to find Yan Lie's subordinate, requesting to see the Poison Young Master. Lin Jingyu secretly followed that person. Meanwhile, A Xiang infiltrated Jinxiu Workshop to ask Ding Ling about Yan Lie's actions after occupying Jinxiu Workshop. He told Ding Ling not to come out, no matter what happened. While Biyao and Zhang Xiaofan were waiting, the lights suddenly dimmed.

A heavily cloaked mysterious person silently entered the room. He told Biyao that the Poison God had just retreated to the Viper Valley, and if they wanted to form an alliance, they should go find the Poison God.

Biyao told him that the Ghost King Sect could not meet the conditions proposed by the Poison God, but the Ghost King Sect could do its best to help him, the Poison Young Master, rise to power and provide him with an antidote for the Ten Thousand Gu Elixir. Just as this person was a little tempted, he suddenly heard a loud bang from the backyard. He hastily forced the two back and rushed towards the backyard.

The loud bang turned out to be A Xiang, who, upon seeing the Heavenly Sound Pavilion's treasure, the Golden Light Furnace, ignored Lin Jingyu's dissuasion and rushed to take it, only to be injured by the Golden Light Furnace. The person rushed to the backyard, saw Lin Jingyu and A Xiang, who was holding the Golden Light Furnace, hurrying out, and immediately engaged in battle with Lin Jingyu. At this moment, Biyao and Zhang Xiaofan followed behind.

Biyao quickly offered her help, repelling the mysterious person, and only then did everyone hastily flee from Jinxiu Workshop. Zhang Xiaofan deduced that Yan Lie was the Poison Young Master based on the person's height and physique. Biyao believed that this impulsive action had "alerted the snake by beating the grass" (stirred up trouble and alerted the enemy).

Now, with the enemy hidden and them exposed, they could only stabilize him first, figure out what kind of poison he used, and then go to the Ghost King Sect to find someone to help deal with him. Dog Lord, who was about to return to the Ghost King Sect, went to Xiao Huan to say goodbye. He told Xiao Huan that he had been raised by dogs since childhood and offered her a dog tooth as a gift.

Xiao Huan refused to accept it, but Dog Lord insisted on giving her the dog tooth by pulling and tugging. At this moment, Lu Xueqi passed by and quickly stopped Dog Lord. Dog Lord wanted to take revenge on Lu Xueqi, but she defeated him in a few moves. Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu rushed to Biyao's residence and discovered that the expert Biyao had invited was Mr. Gui.

When Biyao saw the two of them, she quickly complained that they despised her demonic sect's actions on one hand, yet constantly asked her for help on the other. Mr. Gui believed that at this moment, human lives in Yudou City were at stake, regardless of good or evil, righteous or demonic, because Wild Dog Daoist had already been poisoned by Gu. Mr. Gui went to the City Lord's manor to take the Old City Lord's pulse and diagnose him.

Yan Lie, standing by, told him that the Old City Lord had just recovered from a serious illness, and he could not let this person of unknown origin treat the Old City Lord. The Old City Lord echoed his words. Mr. Geng (Mr. Gui) falsely claimed that the Old City Lord was in good health and did not need medicine.

It turned out that Mr. Gui discovered that City Lord Wei had been poisoned by Gu for at least five years, and combined with his advanced age, rashly trying to expel the Gu would only endanger his life. Mr. Geng (Mr. Gui) told them that as long as they found the Gu Mother, everything would be easily resolved.

Following the formation drawn by Mr. Gui, Zhang Xiaofan and the others had Zeng Shushu bring Xiao Huan for an experiment to see if they could find a way to expel the Gu worms. During this time, the two Qingyun Sect disciples analyzed that the purpose of both righteous and demonic factions gathering at Kongsang Mountain was likely for the Ten Thousand Bat Cave, especially the Ten Thousand Poisons Sect, whose plan might have already begun five years ago.

At this point, Zeng Shushu brought Xiao Huan here, but unexpectedly, Xiao Huan refused to cooperate. Lin Jingyu had no choice but to ask Zhang Xiaofan to talk to Xiao Huan. City Lord Wei followed Yan Lie's suggestion and searched the entire city for the alchemical furnace. A Xiang had no choice but to entrust it to Lin Jingyu for safekeeping. Zhang Xiaofan falsely claimed to be taking Xiao Huan to see the Old City Lord.

Seeing that Xiao Huan was unwilling to cooperate, he knocked her unconscious with a palm strike and placed her into the formation. Lin Jingyu, Zeng Shushu, and A Xiang activated their powers. When Lu Xueqi arrived, she saw them circulating their energy around Xiao Huan and hastily rushed into the formation. Zeng Shushu had Zhang Xiaofan take his place and rushed into the formation to stop Lu Xueqi.

Unexpectedly, the Gu worms forced out from Xiao Huan's body drilled into their bodies. Everyone discovered that Lu Xueqi and Zeng Shushu had also been poisoned by Gu. They quickly activated their internal energy to force out the Gu worms. Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu followed the Gu worms all the way and found that they flew directly towards the Old City Lord's residence. City Lord Wei's body should be where the Gu Mother resided.

Worried about his grandfather's safety, Zeng Shushu spoke carelessly and hurt Zhang Xiaofan, who was trying to stop him. Zhang Xiaofan naturally knew the pain of losing a loved one; he could understand Zeng Shushu's state of mind at that moment and patiently advised Zeng Shushu to wait for Mr. Gui to come and expel the Gu. Mr. Gui inquired and learned that those who had been poisoned by Gu had recently only drunk water from the river.

He deduced that Yan Lie had planted the Gu in the river. Zeng Shushu hastily pleaded with Mr. Gui to save his grandfather. Yan Lie led the city guard team to surround Shanhai Garden. Biyao was about to argue with him, but Zhang Xiaofan quickly pulled her back. Yan Lie produced the City Lord's token and written order, intending to expel Biyao and these members of the demonic sect.

At this moment, Zeng Shushu, as the new City Lord, explained that all of this had nothing to do with the Ghost King Sect. Mr. Gui, not wanting to see Zeng Shushu in a difficult position, took Biyao and left Yudou City. After Mr. Gui and Biyao left Yudou City, Zeng Shushu increasingly felt that even if the Gu worms were removed, his grandfather would not be able to return to his original self.

After experiencing so much, Zeng Shushu suddenly understood the heavy responsibility on his shoulders. All the city's residents were controlled by Yan Lie because they had been poisoned by Gu. Zhang Xiaofan decided to patiently wait for Yan Lie's most arrogant and complacent moment. Unexpectedly, just as Zeng Shushu and Zhang Xiaofan arrived at the City Lord's manor, Yan Lie led his men to block them.

The Old City Lord, controlled by Yan Lie, accused Zeng Shushu of colluding with the demonic sect. Zeng Shushu argued that Yan Lie, from the Ten Thousand Poisons Sect, intended to seize Yudou for himself. Yan Lie produced the green incense burner, falsely accusing Zeng Shushu of having it in his room. City Lord Wei suddenly became hysterical and loudly accused Zeng Shushu of being presumptuous.

Seeing his grandfather's pathetic state, Zeng Shushu rushed forward, determined to fight Yan Lie to the death. Yan Lie ordered his subordinates to apprehend them on the grounds that Zeng Shushu attempted to assassinate the City Lord, otherwise, they must leave Yudou City.

Episode 19 Recap

Facing the aggressive Yan Lie, Zeng Shushu and the others had no choice but to leave the City Lord's Mansion. Gou Ye, who had been waiting outside, saw Zhang Xiaofan and the others rushing out and invited them to rendezvous with Biyao and Ghost Master at Yizhuang. Zeng Shushu told Ghost Master that the city's people were all afflicted with Gu poison, asking if he could lift the Gu poison and rescue them.

Ghost Master speculated that the Poison God must have used the stolen Flame-Mist Golden Light Furnace from Tianyin Temple to make the Gu, and now that its color had turned green, this item would also be needed to lift the Gu. Zhang Xiaofan believed that with the righteous and demonic factions gathered in Yuducheng, it seemed Yuducheng and the Ten Thousand Bat Ancient Cave must be connected, and they should ally with the Ghost King Sect against external threats.

Biyao told them that there was an underground palace inside the Ten Thousand Bat Ancient Cave, containing countless treasures, but it was heavily booby-trapped and difficult to enter; Yan Lie had dug for five years but had not found it. Lin Jingyu guessed that the Ten Thousand Bat Ancient Cave was located within Yuducheng. Ghost Master decided to test Yan Lie with a diversionary tactic.

The next day, Zhang Xiaofan and the others groped their way forward in the cave, using the faint glow emitted by the Fire-Stick. They planned to deal with Yan Lie first, then the Ghost King Sect, which would be much easier then. However, Zhang Xiaofan worried he wouldn't be able to lay a hand on Biyao. Lu Xueqi asked Zeng Shushu what exchange terms Ghost Master had discussed with him.

Zeng Shushu told her that Ghost Master wanted him to succeed as the City Lord, because only the City Lord knew a secret about Yuducheng and the area beneath Kongsang Mountain. At this moment, Yan Lie was casting a spell to interrogate the Old City Lord, asking if the Heavenly Book was hidden in the Ten Thousand Bat Ancient Cave. Although controlled, the Old City Lord gritted his teeth and refused to reveal such a significant secret to Yan Lie.

Only then did City Lord Wei realize that Yan Lie was no ordinary person and questioned his identity. Qin Wuyan, who had been lying low for five years, revealed his true identity to the Old City Lord, who then realized he had been deceived. Qin Wuyan, having already dug to the barrier of the Ten Thousand Bat Ancient Cave, naturally refused to give up and once again cast a spell to interrogate the Old City Lord.

The Old City Lord, afflicted with Gu poison, revealed that the entrance was at the center. Just then, a subordinate reported that people from the Ghost King Sect and Hehuan Sect had already attacked Yuducheng, throwing the city into chaos.

Biyao saw Yan Lie galloping towards them, knew he was Qin Wuyan, and was about to charge at him, but Ghost Master told her to wait and see how things developed, awaiting Zhang Xiaofan to find Black Heart Elder's base – the Dripping Blood Cave. It turned out that Ghost Master had long seen Zhang Xiaofan's extraordinary destiny; as long as Zhang Xiaofan defeated Qin Wuyan, they could seize the opportunity to search for the Heavenly Book's whereabouts.

Zhang Xiaofan and the others finally emerged from the secret passage and infiltrated the City Lord's Mansion. Zeng Shushu found his maternal grandfather and hurriedly made the Old City Lord drink the medicine given by Ghost Master, temporarily rendering him unconscious. Inside Yuducheng, Biyao saw Jin Ping'er in danger and immediately intervened to help, engaging Qin Wuyan in battle.

A city guard, seeing the critical situation, hurriedly took out the Golden Light Furnace, but A Xiang snatched it away with an aerial spell. Just then, Xiaohuan deliberately ran over to tell Qin Wuyan that the Old City Lord had somehow gone mad. Qin Wuyan rushed towards the City Lord's Mansion, but was subdued by Zeng Shushu as soon as he entered.

Lin Jingyu used a Qingyun secret technique to disperse the sinister fire refined by the Poison God using the power of Nine Nethers. In addition, Zhang Xiaofan needed to apply a power of absorption to break the blood Gu.

Zhang Xiaofan couldn't understand how Ghost Master knew his magic weapon had the ability to absorb spiritual energy, but he still cooperated with Lin Jingyu and A Xiang in casting the spell, breaking the blood Gu in the Golden Light Furnace and lifting the poison Gu. Only then did the people of Yuducheng regain consciousness, and the fighting immediately stopped. Zeng Shushu interrogated Qin Wuyan, demanding the antidote.

Qin Wuyan told Zeng Shushu that the Gu mother was in his master, the Poison God's, hands, and he would not give City Lord Wei the antidote. Moreover, City Lord Wei was already on his last breath, and even if the Gu was lifted, he wouldn't live much longer. There was also Li Xun to be buried with him. Qin Wuyan only sought a quick death. Zeng Shushu's interrogation yielded no results.

Lu Xueqi unleashed the Divine Sword Thunder-Riding True Art, making Qin Wuyan suffer the pain of lightning strikes to inquire about Li Xun's whereabouts. Qin Wuyan pretended to agree to lead them to Li Xun. Lu Xueqi saw Li Xun lying on the ground and hurriedly checked his condition. Qin Wuyan suddenly chanted a spell, and Li Xun, who was afflicted with Gu poison, suddenly attacked Lu Xueqi. Qin Wuyan seized the opportunity to escape.

Not long after Qin Wuyan escaped, Biyao and Gou Ye blocked his path. Gou Ye rushed forward, but during the mêlée, he cut the ropes on Qin Wuyan. Qin Wuyan fled along the way, but was quickly surrounded by Lin Jingyu and the others who had caught up. With nowhere to escape, Qin Wuyan had no choice but to jump into the secret passage.

Qin Wuyan escaped into the secret passage, found himself with no way out, and took out Zhan Xiangsi. Using a method of mutual destruction, he opened the seal of the Ten Thousand Bat Ancient Cave and escaped into it. Inside the Ten Thousand Bat Ancient Cave, Qin Wuyan suddenly discovered many blood bats. He forced himself to calm down, stepping deeper into the underground palace, then cast a spell to seal the cave entrance.

After City Lord Wei woke up, he told everyone that in those years, Black Heart Elder of the Blood-Refining Hall had valued Yuducheng's spiritual energy and built an underground palace there. Later, due to internal strife within the sect, he died for love with Lady Jinling. Many ferocious magic weapons were left within the underground palace.

To prevent these evil objects from harming the human world, the people of Yuducheng completely sealed the entrance to the underground palace, entrusting successive City Lords to keep the secret. Now that Qin Wuyan had opened the underground palace, City Lord Wei feared that the human world would once again plunge into bloodshed and prepared to have the guards capture Qin Wuyan.

The Qingyun Sect disciples, having received their master's teachings to investigate the Ten Thousand Bat Ancient Cave, were naturally duty-bound. However, Lu Xueqi refused to let Biyao enter the underground palace, citing that Biyao was a member of the Demonic Sect. Ghost Master told them that the Ten Thousand Bat Ancient Cave was built by Black Heart Elder, and it was extremely perilous inside. Biyao, being a member of the Ghost King Sect, knew how to break the mechanisms.

Zhang Xiaofan knew that if they wanted to retreat safely, Biyao's entry into the underground palace would be beneficial and harmless, so he agreed to Ghost Master's suggestion. After Zeng Shushu handed Yuducheng over to Li Xun to manage, he entered the secret passage with the others. Biyao told everyone that upon entering this place, they must follow her instructions and absolutely must not act rashly. Suddenly, everyone smelled a strange odor and saw scattered remains on the ground.

They realized that blood bats were hidden inside and feared they might come out to harm the people. They sealed the cave entrance before filing in. Everyone carefully bypassed the blood bats. Biyao reached out and touched the spot where Qin Wuyan had cast his spell. The pungent odor emitted caused Zeng Shushu and the others to sneeze. The blood bats were startled and flew towards them all at once.

Zeng Shushu took out his treasured mirror to resist the blood bats, but its power greatly diminished after a while, its light grew faint, and soon the treasured mirror was snatched by the blood bats.

Episode 20 Recap

Everyone was besieged by blood bats. Lin Jingyu saw Zhang Xiaofan being caught by the Bat Mother and quickly went to help, but was knocked to the ground by the flames spat out by the Bat Mother. Biyao quickly helped Lin Jingyu up. At this moment, Lin Jingyu saw the Bat Mother continuing to spit fire and attack, so he hugged Biyao and dodged to the side.

Zhang Xiaofan took the opportunity to ride on the Bat Mother's back, wielding his magic weapon and striking repeatedly. The Bat Mother flew wildly in pain. Lu Xueqi realized the danger, pushed Zeng Shushu to the ground, and was instead caught by the Bat Mother. Under Zhang Xiaofan's continuous fierce attacks, the Bat Mother quickly released Lu Xueqi, and Zhang Xiaofan and Lu Xueqi fell off the cliff.

Zhang Xiaofan quickly grabbed Lu Xueqi, and the two fell down the cliff together. In a daze, Zhang Xiaofan felt unusually cold, as if he heard the voices of his parents and fellow villagers calling him. He quickly stood up. Suddenly, his magic weapon reacted abnormally, and he realized this was an illusion. He quickly waved his magic weapon to return to reality.

At this moment, Zhang Xiaofan saw Lu Xueqi lying on the ground, controlled by something, her limbs flailing convulsively. He realized Lu Xueqi was in danger and quickly flew to her side, casting a spell to save her. Lu Xueqi saw Zhang Xiaofan, just like during the Seven-Meridian Martial Arts Tournament, and worried that he would again be controlled by inner demons. She quickly summoned back her Tianya Sword to dispel the ghostly spirits.

Lu Xueqi realized this place was the Myriad Bat Cave. She told Zhang Xiaofan that she had seen his inner demons and asked him to clear his selfish thoughts and distractions to avoid being exploited by the ghostly spirits. As soon as Lu Xueqi mentioned it, Zhang Xiaofan was again controlled by inner demons, his mind filled with images of Caomiao Village. Lu Xueqi gripped Zhang Xiaofan's hand, reminding him not to be swayed by obsession.

Zhang Xiaofan broke free from the inner demons, only then noticing that Lu Xueqi had squeezed his hand until it was red. After a brief awkward moment, they realized they could no longer fly with their swords and prepared to look around for an exit. Meanwhile, when Biyao and Zeng Shushu's group were searching for Zhang Xiaofan, they realized something was wrong with their surroundings. Zeng Shushu cast a spell, letting a wooden bird lead the way.

At this moment, the ghostly spirits sensed Biyao's thoughts and transformed into the image of Biyao's mother. Lin Jingyu quickly swung his sword to disperse it. Lin Jingyu told Biyao that it was caused by the ghostly spirits' transformation. Zeng Shushu took out a talisman and placed it on his forehead, and the three continued their journey. Furthermore, as Zhang Xiaofan and Lu Xueqi continued their journey, they were once again disturbed by ghostly spirits.

The two fought back-to-back but were still controlled by the spirits. In a moment of crisis, the persistent Zhang Xiaofan used his last bit of strength to stab his magic weapon into the spirit's mouth, and only then did they escape danger. Zeng Shushu and the others arrived and rescued Zhang Xiaofan and Biyao.

In Yudou City, Jin Ping'er, from the Acacia Sect, knew from the ancient scrolls left by Madam Jin Ling that the underground palace was full of dangers. With Qin Wuyan lurking in the dark and Zhang Xiaofan's group openly, they might face a narrow escape from death. Jin Ping'er, A Xiang, and Li Xun prepared to go down and help them. Zhang Xiaofan and his group had no idea how many hours they had walked in the underground palace.

They saw bubbles inside the palace. Zeng Shushu, unable to resist his curiosity, burst a bubble, and instantly, each person saw images of their past related to themselves. Biyao and Zhang Xiaofan unknowingly walked forward. Suddenly, they slipped and fell off a cliff one after another. Biyao quickly hugged Zhang Xiaofan. At this moment, Qin Wuyan, who had arrived earlier, saw Biyao and Zhang Xiaofan come to the shore of the Heartless Sea.

He secretly cast a spell, activating the Gu poison that the Poison God had long ago implanted. Zhang Xiaofan, poisoned by the Gu, suddenly fell to the ground. Qin Wuyan seized the opportunity to capture Biyao. Qin Wuyan intended to use Biyao as a sacrifice to the demonic beast guarding the Blood-dripping Cave, to search for the Devil Sect's ultimate treasure, the Heavenly Book, within the cave.

Zhang Xiaofan, lying on the ground, saw Qin Wuyan pushing Biyao towards the Black Water Xuan Snake. In a moment of desperation, he leaped up and snatched Biyao from the Black Water Xuan Snake's mouth. The Xuan Snake, having missed its prey, was naturally unwilling to gain nothing, and glared at them menacingly. Biyao cast a spell to divert the Xuan Snake's attention to Qin Wuyan, and the Black Water Xuan Snake swallowed Qin Wuyan in one gulp.

It then chased after Zhang Xiaofan and Biyao. Zhang Xiaofan quickly shielded Biyao, and was violently flung aside by the Black Water Xuan Snake. Zhang Xiaofan woke up to find they were already lying at the very bottom of the underground palace, with no way out. Biyao discovered that this was the Blood-dripping Cave. She told Zhang Xiaofan that the Blood-dripping Cave was built by the Black-hearted Old Man and contained countless magic treasures.

At this moment, A Xiang, who had come down to help them, found Zeng Shushu and the others trapped. He quickly cast a spell to break the enchanting mirage gas. Zeng Shushu found himself also at the edge of a cliff, and at the same time, he could no longer see any sign of Zhang Xiaofan and Biyao. They realized that Biyao and Zhang Xiaofan had fallen.

Jin Ping'er asked A Xiang to use the Samsara Pearl to clear a path and go down to search for Zhang Xiaofan and them. After more than ten hours, Biyao and Zhang Xiaofan still hadn't waited for rescuers. Biyao told Zhang Xiaofan that if a few more days passed, and if she found herself unable to go on, he should kill her and eat her flesh to save himself.

Zhang Xiaofan naturally refused, as he was unwilling to devalue any life, let alone Biyao's! Biyao recounted to Zhang Xiaofan how, when she and her mother were pursued by Old Man Nian years ago, she was severely injured. Her mother cut flesh from her own body to prolong Biyao's life, and a child carrying a lantern gave her a ray of hope. She was eventually rescued by her father and Qinglong. Hearing this, Zhang Xiaofan suddenly remembered that he had once been to a cave years ago. He felt pity for Biyao's tragic past and pulled her into his embrace.

Episode 21 Recap

Biyao didn't want to experience that kind of despair again, so she would rather die first. After hearing this, Xiaofan gently embraced the sorrowful Biyao. After resting for a while, Biyao got up and saw Xiaofan, who was pondering something at the entrance. Xiaofan discovered through his magic treasure that the stones on the stone door of the Dripping Blood Cave were flashing rhythmically. The two performed spells together, and finally, the stone door was opened.

Biyao and Xiaofan walked into the Dripping Blood Cave. Biyao saw the sculptures of the Netherworld Saint Mother and the Heavenly Fiend Underworld King, so she knelt down and prayed, hoping they would bless the Ghost King Sect to endure for generations. After finishing their prayer, Biyao and Xiaofan continued deeper into the cave. In the center of the cave, they discovered a stone tablet inscribed with "Heaven and Earth are not benevolent; they treat all things as straw dogs."

Beside the tablet were two corpses, said to be the Black Heart Elder and Lady Jinling, who died for love. Biyao found a box next to Lady Jinling. She opened it and discovered it contained the Hehuan Sect's treasure, Jinling. As she held up Jinling, she and Xiaofan saw a scene of Lady Jinling and the Black Heart Elder conversing in the past.

After the Black Heart Elder was defeated, to reverse the situation, he planned to resurrect the Ancient Evil God, Beast God. Lady Jinling painstakingly tried to persuade him to stop, but the Black Heart Elder insisted on resurrecting the Beast God. Seeing that persuasion was useless, Lady Jinling sadly left. After she left, the Black Heart Elder used the Heavenly Tome to resurrect the Beast God.

However, the awakened Beast God planned to make the Black Heart Elder its first sacrifice. At this moment, Lady Jinling rushed back and saved the Black Heart Elder with the Obsession Charm, but died herself as a result. The Black Heart Elder held the deceased Lady Jinling, regretting his impatience and that he had not waited to collect all five volumes of the Heavenly Tome before summoning the Beast God.

He sent bats to deliver his magic treasure, the Blood-devouring Pearl, and swore that only those with the Blood-devouring Pearl could open the underground palace and complete his dying wish. After Biyao finished watching the illusion, she realized that the simple staff in Xiaofan's hand was actually the Blood-devouring Pearl. She looked at the staff, then gave it back to Xiaofan.

As for the Black Heart Elder's dying wish, Xiaofan stated that he did not want to collude with the Demonic Cult and had no intention of fulfilling his dying wish. Axiang used the Reincarnation Pearl to find the Black Heart Black Serpent raised by the Black Heart Elder. He discovered someone inside its belly. Shushu thought Xiaofan and the others were inside the serpent, so he rushed forward and knocked down the Black Serpent.

At this moment, Qin Wuyan fell out of its mouth. Shushu and the others tied him up, and Ghost Master also subdued the Black Serpent with the Dragon-subduing Cauldron. Qin Wuyan told them that Xiaofan and Biyao had already perished in the sea, but Shushu and the others did not believe that Xiaofan and Biyao were dead. Ghost Master speculated that there might be other secret passages in the Heartless Sea.

While Biyao and Jingyu were searching for Xiaofan and their whereabouts, Qin Wuyan incited Li Xun to release him, telling him that he knew what he was looking for. While Jingyu was looking for Li Xun and Qin Wuyan, they coincidentally stumbled upon the entrance of the Dripping Blood Cave, but the door was tightly shut, and they could not open it.

As Xiaofan and Biyao inside the cave prepared to leave, Xiaofan's magic treasure seemed to be pulled by something, unwilling to depart. As Jingyu and the others cast spells to open the door, Ghost Master seized the opportunity to slip inside and close the door. He was following the Ghost King's dying wish, preparing to use Xiaofan as a sacrifice to resurrect the Beast God.

Biyao, who was nearby, did not want Xiaofan to become a sacrifice, so she rushed forward to save him. Both were then trapped by the Beast God. At this moment, Jingyu and the others finally opened the door and rushed in. Xueqi, Axiang, Jingyu, and the others cast spells to rescue the trapped Xiaofan and Biyao. As they landed, Xiaofan's magic treasure touched the Black Heart Elder's corpse, and the magic treasure reacted unusually.

Episode 22 Recap

When Xiao Fan landed, his magic weapon touched Old Man Black Heart's corpse, causing the weapon to act abnormally. Old Man Black Heart's obsession awakened, and to end everything, he fought with the Beast God. Meanwhile, the Beast God's spirit seized the opportunity to rush out of the underground palace and soared into the sky.

In the courtyard of the City Lord's mansion, City Lord Wei exhausted his magic power and turned into a statue in order to seal the Beast God once again. Zeng Shushu, who had escaped from the underground palace, was heartbroken to see his grandfather transformed into a statue. Xiao Huan was also crying by his side. At this moment, Jing Yu, Xiao Fan, and others also came up one after another.

Looking at the scene before them, everyone felt very sad. Qin Wuyan, who had escaped from the underground palace, was in a very sorry state in the forest. His senior brother rushed over and asked him to return to Viper Valley together. Qin Wuyan agreed in order to obtain his master's antidote. The Ghost King knew that if it hadn't been for his daughter Bi Yao's interference this time, Mr. Ghost would have successfully resurrected the Beast God.

Mr. Ghost stated that all of this was destiny and could not be forced. The Ghost King said that the Beast God's evil aura was too strong and indeed difficult to control. Mr. Ghost suggested that he use the Beast God's blood on Zhang Xiaofan, allowing the Beast God to transform on him, and to control Zhang Xiaofan, he also suggested that the Ghost King take him as a disciple.

The Ghost King knew that the Qingyun Sect and the Ghost King Sect were like fire and water, and taking Xiao Fan as a disciple would indeed be difficult. So he decided to let the first volume of the Heavenly Book remain with Xiao Fan for now, and first search for the next volume.

At this moment, Mr. Ghost told him that in fact, the whereabouts of the second volume of the Heavenly Book were also known; it was related to the Bi Huo Tian Bing Lake scripture. Xiao Fan was playing with the Acacia Bell he found in the courtyard. At this moment, Big Brother Qinglong walked over and gave Bi Yao a pill to eat, telling her that eating it would make her immune to all poisons.

Bi Yao heard Qin Wuyan's name and was about to go settle scores with him. Big Brother Qinglong stopped her and told her that Qin Wuyan had accidentally injured Bi Yao at the time and was merely following orders. Still, Bi Yao could not swallow her anger. Big Brother Qinglong told Bi Yao that the Ghost King concealed the resurrection of the Beast God from her for her own good.

Bi Yao was still angry with her father and refused to forgive him. When Bi Yao showed her concern for Xiao Fan in front of Big Brother Qinglong, Qinglong reminded her not to get involved with people she shouldn't, lest she repeat Wan Jianyi's mistakes. Bi Yao did not know Wan Jianyi's story and was very curious about it. Xiao Fan looked at the fire-stick in his hand, unsure whether to throw it away.

At this moment, Xue Qi rushed over to ask him if he was still involved with the Demonic Sect. Xiao Fan stated that he believed Bi Yao was a good person, and he would not collude with the Ghost King Sect, but he also wouldn't falsely accuse good people. Seeing that she couldn't convince Xiao Fan, Xue Qi returned to the Qingyun Sect on her own.

Before leaving, she told Xiao Fan that if he ever fell into evil, she would be the first to kill him. Zhou Yixian reminisced about the days when the City Lord played chess with him. Zeng Shushu remained kneeling before his grandfather's statue. Xiao Huan came before Shushu, encouraging him to pull himself together and finish what he had yet to do. Shushu looked at the crying Xiao Huan and knew he shouldn't be so despondent.

Li Xun was preparing to expel Jin Ping'er of the Demonic Sect from Yudou, repeatedly claiming that he was the City Lord. At this moment, Shushu walked in and declared before everyone that Jin Ping'er could leave if she wanted to, or stay if she wanted to; no one could drive them away. Seeing that Zeng Shushu was willing to take on the responsibility of the City Lord, everyone stood by him and together they drove Li Xun away.

After kowtowing to the old City Lord, Jin Ping'er intended to leave Yudou. At this moment, she saw Jing Yu. Jing Yu advised her not to care about what others said and that she could stay in Yudou. Jin Ping'er stated that she didn't want to cause trouble for Shushu, and it would be more appropriate for her to leave Yudou. On Qingyun Mountain, the elders were discussing the matter of the Heavenly Book in the main hall.

Since Xue Qi had not found the Heavenly Book in the Blood-Dripping Cave, they believed it had been taken by the Demonic Sect, so they planned to send Xiao Yicai to Yudou to assist Shushu and also to monitor the Demonic Sect. Big Brother Qinglong found Xiao Yicai by the river and gave him a bottle of medicine to suppress the Beast God's blood, telling him to take it so he wouldn't be discovered.

A Xiang and Ding Ling were distributing food and medicine to the common people at the entrance of the City Lord's mansion. Shushu was directing everyone to dig irrigation ditches. Everyone had something to do, and Xiao Fan was also happy with Shushu's performance. Dog Master arrived at the City Lord's mansion and was very happy to see Xiao Huan. He bid farewell to Xiao Huan and once again gave her his personal tooth, but Xiao Huan still refused it.

At this moment, he saw Xiao Yicai, mistook him for a traitor from the Blood Refining Hall, and prepared to teach him a lesson. However, Dog Master couldn't defeat Xiao Yicai and had to flee first. After Xiao Fan heard about this, he told Xiao Yicai that Dog Master was a good person and not to pursue him.

Xiao Yicai was very angry to see him speaking up for someone from the Demonic Sect and reprimanded Xiao Fan and Jing Yu. Jing Yu privately told Xiao Fan not to plead for people from the Demonic Sect anymore, as the righteous and demonic paths were fundamentally different.

Episode 23 Recap

Xiao Yicai arrived in Yudou overnight, conveying that the Sect Master believed the position of Yudou City Lord could only be temporarily held by Zeng Shushu, and that the Demonic Sect should not be allowed to enter and exit freely. The entire Qingyun Sect would fully support Zeng Shushu. To make it legitimate and to save Li Xun's face, Xiao Yicai suggested that Zeng Shushu look for any items left by the old City Lord, such as a will.

On this side, Zeng Shushu found Xiao Huan to help him search in the study, and suddenly discovered a note from the first City Lord. It recorded that the Heavenly Book was originally divided into five volumes, and the more volumes one obtained, the greater the chance of resurrecting the Beast God. It turned out that the first City Lord was originally a slave of the Black-Hearted Old Man.

He stole the second volume of the Heavenly Book and hid it when the Old Man was unprepared. Fortunately, during the war between gods and demons, the City Lord seized the opportunity to escape. The Black-Hearted Old Man was defeated by Master Ku Xin and could only forcibly resurrect the Beast God in the underground palace with the first volume of the Heavenly Book.

Feeling that the matter was significant, Zeng Shushu found Xiao Yicai, Lin Jingyu, and Zhang Xiaofan to discuss it together. Xiao Yicai, using the excuse that he feared it would fall into the hands of evildoers, suggested destroying the treasure map and decided to go to the East Sea tomorrow to investigate the location marked on the map. After some discussion, Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu decided to go with him, and Xiao Yicai reluctantly agreed.

Xiao Huan, while divining, expressed that she felt a vague unease about this trip and was very worried that something might happen to Zhang Xiaofan. Zeng Shushu really wanted to go with Xiaofan and the others, but for his grandfather and for Yudou, he could only guard this place.

Although he was very worried, to comfort Xiao Huan, he said that Xiaofan and the others had overcome even more dangerous places in the past, and they would certainly be safe this time. The two chatted for a while and felt much better. Xiao Huan even playfully said that she would work hard to learn magic to protect Xiaofan and Zeng Shushu.

Listening to A Xiang talk about fate, memories of Zhang Xiaofan's acquaintance and understanding with Bi Yao involuntarily emerged in his mind. Returning to reality, upon hearing the words "fate has not yet arrived," he slowly sighed. At this moment, Lin Jingyu, opposite him, also seemed to be sighing, and everyone looked at each other and smiled. While drinking tea, everyone talked about the bloody case in Grass Temple Village.

They learned that A Xiang had originally been instructed by his master to take extra care of Zhang Xiaofan from the Qingyun Sect if he met him. Xiaofan was quite moved after hearing this. Back in his room, the bloody case from that year kept replaying in Zhang Xiaofan's mind. Just as he was about to suffer a qi deviation, he was fortunately rescued by Lin Jingyu, who happened to be passing by.

However, Lin Jingyu discovered something unusual about Xiaofan: what was inside Xiaofan's body was the Demonic Heavenly Book that had entered him during the struggle with Mr. Gui. Xiaofan believed that the second volume might contain cultivation methods to force out the Heavenly Book from his body. Lin Jingyu always believed it was a conspiracy of the Ghost King Sect, and that it was related to Bi Yao, who had been using them.

With differing opinions, both thought the other was impossible to communicate with, secretly feeling annoyed. Little did they know that all of this was overheard by the thoughtful Xiao Yicai, who was hiding outside the door. Meanwhile, Master Shuiyue was blaming the young disciples sent down the mountain for trusting others, which allowed the Demonic Sect to seize an opportunity.

Lu Xueqi, grateful for Zhang Xiaofan's protection to the death along the way, defended him repeatedly, which caused Master Shuiyue extreme displeasure, and she left with a flick of her sleeve. After her master left, Lu Xueqi went to Dazhu Peak to inform Zhang Xiaofan that everything was fine, and recounted Xiaofan's resourcefulness and courage.

Xiao Yicai, under the pretext of sending Lin Jingyu to buy food, seized the opportunity to give Zhang Xiaofan a pill that he claimed could heal injuries and illnesses. After Zhang Xiaofan fell into a coma, Xiao Yicai took out the Revered Ancestor's Scale to investigate whether Zhang Xiaofan was truly cultivating demonic arts. He was interrupted before he could find out by the arriving Lin Jingyu.

Xiao Yicai then argued that he was afraid Zhang Xiaofan's mind would be corrupted by the Demonic Sect. Lin Jingyu, who deeply detested the Demonic Sect, became even more worried and wary of Zhang Xiaofan, who had always defended the Demonic Sect. Late at night, Bi Yao found it hard to sleep, looking at her Golden Bell and worrying about Zhang Xiaofan. She tried to steal it but was caught red-handed by the Ghost King.

The Ghost King stated that Zhang Xiaofan, possessing the Blood-Devouring Pearl and the Heavenly Book's power, would inevitably not be understood by the Qingyun Sect and would eventually have to join their Demonic Sect. Although Bi Yao still wanted to be with Xiaofan, she knew that the stubborn Xiaofan would not easily agree. Facing two of the closest and dearest people, both equally stubborn, Bi Yao was both angry and anxious, not knowing what to do.

Facing the unconscious Zhang Xiaofan, Lin Jingyu regretted their previous argument. Early in the morning, he was again sent away by the ill-intentioned Xiao Yicai to find a Medical Immortal to treat Xiaofan. Facing the eccentric Medical Immortal in the forest, he pleaded earnestly and promised to rescue the Medical Immortal's captured junior brother in exchange for treating Zhang Xiaofan.

After a fight, the Medical Immortal took the opportunity to take his junior brother away, but was caught up by Lin Jingyu. It turned out that the person in the thatched hut was an expert from the Tianyin Temple. Lin Jingyu felt deeply deceived and followed them all the way. At this moment, Xiao Yicai was preparing to use the Revered Ancestor's Scale to extract the Heavenly Book from Zhang Xiaofan.

Episode 24 Recap

When Xiao Yicai used the Scales of the Beast Venerable to force out the Heavenly Book cultivation method from Zhang Xiaofan's body, the Blood of the Beast God encountered the Heavenly Book cultivation method and suddenly erupted. Xiao Yicai's face became distorted, half-human and half-beast, as he crashed directly into the bookshelf. The hunter heard the commotion and barged in. Fearing exposure, Xiao Yicai killed the hunter and took Zhang Xiaofan away.

Lin Jingyu followed the Medical Immortal back to his clinic and learned that although they were both fox demons, they made a living by practicing medicine in exchange for rice, were primarily vegetarian, and never harmed human lives. Lin Jingyu learned that the Medical Immortal was originally a Six-Tailed Divine Fox, and his younger brother was named Xiao Qi. As agreed, the Medical Immortal agreed to treat Zhang Xiaofan.

They rushed to the farmer's home, where they found the hunter's corpse on the spot, and Zhang Xiaofan and Xiao Yicai were nowhere to be found. Lin Jingyu recalled Xiao Yicai's experience of being an undercover agent in the Blood-Refining Faction and suspected that the evil arts on Zhang Xiaofan were affecting his mind, so he and the Medical Immortal brothers hurriedly split up to search for Zhang Xiaofan and Xiao Yicai.

After tracking them, Fox Immortal Xiao Qi saw the half-human, half-demon Xiao Yicai forcing out the cultivation method from Zhang Xiaofan's body and was so frightened that he cried out repeatedly in alarm. Hearing the commotion, Xiao Yicai chased him out. Lin Jingyu, who arrived next, seized the opportunity to rescue Zhang Xiaofan.

The Six-Tailed Divine Fox diagnosed by taking his pulse and determined that a domineering cultivation method had been input into Zhang Xiaofan's body, causing his internal energy to conflict and putting him on the verge of qi deviation. The Six-Tailed Divine Fox advised against rashly extracting this domineering cultivation method, stating that it could only be resolved by clarifying its characteristics, guiding it systematically, and making it compatible with the Qingyun internal energy within Zhang Xiaofan's body.

He used tranquilizing incense to suppress Zhang Xiaofan's internal energy and instructed him not to take any other elixirs recently. Zhang Xiaofan thanked Xiao Qi after waking up and only then realized that Xiao Qi and his brother were vegetarian fox demons living in Xiaochi Town. At this moment, Lin Jingyu and the Medical Immortal entered, interrupting their conversation. Zhang Xiaofan hurriedly asked about Xiao Yicai's whereabouts. Lin Jingyu asked Zhang Xiaofan if he knew who took him away.

Based on Zhang Xiaofan's statement, Lin Jingyu inferred that the other party was a monster with fangs, the same as the one Xiao Qi encountered. Qinglong saw the bestialized Xiao Yicai and did not understand why he had transformed at that moment. He hurriedly subdued the crazed Xiao Yicai. Qinglong questioned Xiao Yicai about what he had done to trigger the power of the Blood of the Beast God to act up prematurely.

Learning that this matter was related to Zhang Xiaofan, Qinglong had an idea and told Xiao Yicai to closely monitor Zhang Xiaofan's movements, but not to lay hands on him. Zhang Xiaofan lay in bed, unable to sleep. Based on the fact that the beast-man had absorbed the Heavenly Book cultivation method from his body, he guessed it was a monster kept by the Demonic Cult. Zhang Xiaofan blamed himself, thinking his cultivation method had implicated everyone.

Lin Jingyu quickly asked Zhang Xiaofan what other cultivation methods he had practiced. Zhang Xiaofan had already promised Master Puzhi, so he naturally would not tell Lin Jingyu, even though he was his best friend. Qinglong found the Medical Immortal and asked him to be a guest at Fox Qishan.

The Six-Tailed Divine Fox insisted on not returning to Fox Qishan and even ignored Qinglong's request for him to go to the Fire Altar of Incense-Burning Valley to rescue his mother, the Nine-Tailed Divine Fox. Qinglong was about to forcibly take away the Six-Tailed Divine Fox. The sounds of their fight successively alerted Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu, Master Pukong, a master from Tianyin Temple who was cultivating there, and also Xiao Qi.

Qinglong took advantage of the chaos to abduct Xiao Qi. In a moment of desperation, Zhang Xiaofan wanted to cast a spell to save Xiao Qi, but Lin Jingyu hurriedly stopped him. Pukong learned that this young man was Zhang Xiaofan, remembered Master Puzhi's instructions to him, and used his internal energy to help Zhang Xiaofan heal.

Pukong discovered that Zhang Xiaofan had three conflicting internal energies within him, so much so that even with fifty years of his own cultivation, he could not expel the domineering internal energy from his body. In the end, he had to use Tianyin Temple's forbidden spell method to temporarily seal this internal energy.

Master Pukong told Lin Jingyu that after he finishes his current tasks, Zhang Xiaofan should visit Tianyin Temple, as Tianyin Temple's Sect Master, Master Puhong, might have a way to resolve it, and at that time, the Sect Master would personally tell them something. With the cultivation method temporarily sealed, Zhang Xiaofan was now able to cast spells. However, for fundamental treatment, he and Lin Jingyu prepared to quickly find the second volume of the Heavenly Book.

The two went to the hunter's house and found Xiao Yicai, who concocted a lie and deceived Zhang Xiaofan and the others. After Xiao Qi was taken back to Ghost King Sect by Qinglong, Biyao used both gentle and harsh methods to question him about Zhang Xiaofan.

Meanwhile, the Ghost King knew that the Six-Tailed Divine Fox had already entered Incense-Burning Valley three times, and it was truly difficult to escape unharmed under the strict guard of the two masters, Shangguan Ce and Yun Yilan.

The Ghost King took out the ancient treasure he had found, the Azure Water Cold Shuttle, and incited the Six-Tailed Divine Fox to enter Incense-Burning Valley again to rescue the Nine-Tailed Divine Fox and incidentally help him retrieve the Profound Fire Mirror from the Fire Altar. To rescue his mother, the Six-Tailed Divine Fox had no choice but to agree. When Qinglong accompanied the Six-Tailed Divine Fox out, they met Biyao.

The Six-Tailed Divine Fox told Biyao about Zhang Xiaofan's current situation. Biyao believed that Zhang Xiaofan was possessed by the Heavenly Book because he saved her. She left a letter and prepared to go down the mountain to visit Zhang Xiaofan, but was stopped by the Ghost King, who had been on guard.

The Ghost King told Biyao that Zhang Xiaofan's Qingyun magical power could not control the power of the Heavenly Book, and it would be best for him to come to Ghost King Sect to help him complete the great task of restoring the Demonic Cult. Biyao told her father that Zhang Xiaofan was, after all, her savior, and she could not repay kindness with enmity.

She planned to go down the mountain to see Zhang Xiaofan and perhaps could help her father persuade him to return to Ghost King Sect. The Ghost King naturally hoped Biyao could retrieve the first volume of the Heavenly Book from Zhang Xiaofan. He reminded Biyao to be mindful of her identity as the young mistress of Ghost King Sect and finally agreed to let her go down the mountain.

Episode 25 Recap

Zhang Xiaofan, Lin Jingyu, and Xiao Yicai arrived at Dinghai Manor in the East Sea and found the place heavily guarded. At the same time, they discovered Wild Dog attempting to sneak into the manor. They hastily apprehended him, but Wild Dog managed to escape by claiming he had met Biyao. Upon entering Dinghai Manor, Lin Jingyu noticed that even ordinary servants possessed martial arts skills, and Meng Ji's demeanor had the style of a jianghu individual.

At that moment, a servant was chasing the maid Yun Shu. Fortunately, Meng Ji intervened, and Zhang Xiaofan and the others then followed him to meet the Manor Lord. Xiao Yicai asked the Manor Lord about the reason for the Ghost King Sect's attack on the manor. The Manor Lord informed them that he was Yuyangzi, the sect master of the Longevity Hall.

After leaving the Demonic Sect decades ago, he had migrated to the East Sea, but unexpectedly, the Demonic Sect still came here to harass him. Xiao Yicai told Zhang Xiaofan that the Longevity Hall stood between righteousness and evil, always prioritizing self-preservation and acting discreetly. Xiao Yicai knew that the Ghost King Sect's influence had always been in the Central Plains region and wondered why they were now paying attention to a small manor by the sea.

Zhang Xiaofan guessed it must be related to the Heavenly Tome. Xiao Yicai decided to investigate when Yuyangzi established his manor here and instructed Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu to search the surroundings for any remaining Ghost King Sect spies. Lin Jingyu admonished Zhang Xiaofan for letting Wild Dog go because he heard Biyao's name, reminding him not to be soft-hearted towards Biyao again, to avoid repeating the mistakes of Yuducheng.

Zhang Xiaofan told Lin Jingyu that he had faced life and death alongside Biyao at Stargazing Cliff and the Ten Thousand Bat Cave. Although their paths were different, one righteous and one demonic, they had become sworn friends. It was only upon hearing Biyao's name that he unintentionally allowed Wild Dog to escape. Zhang Xiaofan profoundly realized that if Biyao ever became an enemy of Qingyun Sect, he would certainly regard her as an enemy.

However, Biyao had never harmed him or Qingyun Sect. The next time he saw Biyao, he would treat her as a stranger and strike her. Lin Jingyu, for a moment, also didn't know how to face Biyao. That night, Zhang Xiaofan found it difficult to sleep, thinking about all the moments since he met Biyao.

At this time, Biyao's Hehuan Bell seemed to sense the unusual stirrings of Zhang Xiaofan's Blood-devouring Pearl, and she hastily wanted to find Zhang Xiaofan, but You Yi stopped her. You Yi told Biyao that Yuyangzi appeared gentle and refined but was actually difficult to approach. She advised Biyao not to enter the manor alone to see Zhang Xiaofan.

If she truly wished to see Zhang Xiaofan, it would be best to wait until Qinglong and the Ghost King Sect launched a coordinated attack to capture Dinghai Manor before making any plans. Xiao Yicai exited the room and scolded Lin Jingyu for mentioning the Heavenly Tome to Yuyangzi. After speaking, he flicked his sleeves and left.

Zhang Xiaofan suggested that Lin Jingyu accompany him to the Ghost King Sect's camp, reasoning that this might disrupt the Ghost King Sect's rear and relieve the siege on the city gates. Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu arrived at the Ghost King Sect's camp and saw two Demonic Sect disciples approaching them. They cast spells, knocked the two unconscious, and then put on their clothes to infiltrate the Ghost King Sect's stronghold.

Eventually, they were discovered by the Ghost King Sect, and the two engaged in a fierce battle with You Ji. At this moment, Biyao suddenly appeared and stopped Zhang Xiaofan from fighting. Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu initially wanted to escape but were apprehended by You Ji. Biyao pretended to corner Zhang Xiaofan, hinting that he should take her hostage, allowing them to seize the opportunity to escape.

Biyao followed Zhang Xiaofan and the others back to Dinghai Manor, where she found that Lin Jingyu, who considered himself a gentleman, couldn't cook to satisfy her ravenous hunger. Instead, it was Zhang Xiaofan who brought her delicious steamed buns. Lin Jingyu, on one hand, accused the Ghost King Sect of wanting to seize the Heavenly Tome and cause chaos, and on the other hand, reminded Zhang Xiaofan not to let Xiao Yicai know about Biyao's capture.

Zhang Xiaofan originally planned to send Biyao away under the cover of night. However, Yuyangzi and Xiao Yicai jointly enforced a curfew in Dinghai Manor, prohibiting anyone from flying with swords. Lin Jingyu told Zhang Xiaofan that they would have to let Biyao temporarily stay in Xiaofan's room and let her sneak out of the city at daybreak. Unexpectedly, all of this was observed by Xiao Yicai.

Lying bored in bed, Biyao got up and asked Zhang Xiaofan if he resented her because she caused the Heavenly Tome to invade his body. Zhang Xiaofan told Biyao that it had nothing to do with her; it was the Ghost Doctor who forced the Heavenly Tome into his body. Biyao urged Zhang Xiaofan to return with her to Fox Hill, so her father could extract the Heavenly Tome from his body.

Zhang Xiaofan refused, citing his promise to return to Qingyun with Lin Jingyu. The next day, while Zhang Xiaofan was still fast asleep, Biyao prepared to leave Dinghai Manor, but she was drugged and captured by Xiao Yicai. After Zhang Xiaofan woke up and found Biyao gone, he frantically searched everywhere. Lin Jingyu, who had also been worried about Biyao, could only comfort Zhang Xiaofan.

Zhang Xiaofan worried that Biyao would be captured by Longevity Hall disciples in the heavily guarded Dinghai Manor. Lin Jingyu told him that Yuyangzi's talismans had already become ineffective, and moreover, Biyao was so clever that the people of Longevity Hall would be utterly powerless against her. Upon learning that the talismans were ineffective, Zhang Xiaofan worried that the Ghost King Sect would seize the opportunity to attack Dinghai Manor.

At this point, Xiao Yicai deliberately told them that the reason the Ghost King Sect hadn't attacked Dinghai Manor was because Qinglong was still inside, intending to deal with Yuyangzi. He instructed Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu to first find Qinglong. Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu guessed that if Biyao hadn't left, she should be with Qinglong. After spotting Qinglong, they gave chase. Qinglong managed to shake off Lin Jingyu but was stopped by Zhang Xiaofan.

Zhang Xiaofan knocked Qinglong to the ground. While Zhang Xiaofan was surprised, Qinglong prepared to escape but was bound by Lin Jingyu, who had caught up. Qinglong received a telepathic message from You Ji, informing him that Biyao had been captured. He simply feigned inability to escape and inquired about Biyao's whereabouts. Lin Jingyu and Zhang Xiaofan were also surprised that Biyao hadn't returned yet. At this moment, Xiao Yicai arrived in a hurry and brought Qinglong before Yuyangzi.

Yuyangzi took out the Flower of Sorrow from Biyao's person, intending to negotiate with the Ghost King Sect. Qinglong, using the opportunity of negotiating with Yuyangzi, broke free from his ropes and began fighting Yuyangzi. Xiao Yicai pretended to help Yuyangzi and seized the chance to let Qinglong escape.

Episode 26 Recap

Yuyangzi told Xiao Yicai and the others that luckily he had already prepared a backup plan, so the Ghost King Sect should not dare to act rashly again. Zhang Xiaofan saw the Sorrowful Flower of Bi Yao in Yuyangzi's hand, realizing that Bi Yao was in Yuyangzi's possession, and guessed that Yuyangzi was also coveting something from the Ghost King Sect, perhaps something even more important than the Celestial Tome.

Xiao Yicai reminded them not to blur the lines between good and evil anymore, and not to be indecisive about Bi Yao. Yuyangzi first recounted his ties with the Ghost King Sect to Bi Yao. He told Bi Yao that he did not want to be an enemy of the Ghost King Sect. Bi Yao naturally knew Yuyangzi's intentions.

She told Yuyangzi that in the past, when faced with Old Man Nian's threat, her father, the Ghost King, did not come to save her, so now he naturally would not compromise with Yuyangzi. It turned out that Yuyangzi wanted Bi Yao to write a letter, asking the Ghost King to send over the Blood of the Beast God and the Celestial Tome, and at the same time withdraw his troops from Dinghai Village.

Bi Yao naturally refused to compromise, so Yuyangzi began to torture her. Zhang Xiaofan worried that the stubborn Bi Yao would suffer Yuyangzi's torment and prepared to risk saving her. Lin Jingyu told Zhang Xiaofan that even if they saved her, they must hide it from Xiao Yicai, otherwise they would not be able to explain it to their sect. Zhang Xiaofan prepared to rescue Bi Yao after dark.

At this moment, Qinglong, having overheard their conversation, appeared and offered to join forces with them to rescue Bi Yao. Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu disguised themselves as disciples of Dinghai Village, preparing to rescue Bi Yao under the cover of night. Lin Jingyu told Zhang Xiaofan that the Ghost King must have other schemes, perhaps intending to kill with a borrowed knife. After they had discussed their countermeasures, the two actively prepared for Bi Yao's rescue.

Meanwhile, Qinglong cast a spell to start a large fire in Dinghai Village, throwing the village into chaos. Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu took advantage of the confusion to enter the courtyard where Bi Yao was held. Yuyangzi sent someone to keep a close watch on Bi Yao, to avoid falling for a 'lure the tiger out of its mountain lair' trick. Meng Ji rushed to the cell and found Bi Yao missing.

It turned out that Bi Yao had used something given to her by the maid Yun Shu during a meal delivery to open her shackles. Bi Yao launched a surprise attack while Meng Ji was startled, but unexpectedly, she hadn't escaped far before Meng Ji sealed her in another location. Bi Yao discovered another person imprisoned there and found out that he was Situ Xiao, the former young master of Dinghai Village.

He had been imprisoned there for over seven years. It turned out that the Changsheng Hall controlled Situ Xiao with bloodworms they raised. These bloodworms could suck the blood of any living creature, and once they latched on, they were very difficult to get rid of. Situ Xiao told Bi Yao that they could use the characteristic of bloodworms to only distinguish directions through vibration, making them attack the Changsheng Hall's runes to trick Yuyangzi into coming in.

Only then would Bi Yao have a chance to escape. Situ Xiao urged Bi Yao that if she escaped, she must help find a mute girl named Yun Shu. Bi Yao realized that the girl who delivered her meals matched Situ Xiao's description. She told Situ Xiao that Yun Shu was still in Dinghai Village. Bi Yao tiptoed to the runes and used her internal energy to tap the wall.

Sure enough, it attracted the bloodworms to attack the runes, which in turn drew Yuyangzi in. Unexpectedly, Yuyangzi had already prepared. He cast a spell to imprison Bi Yao and summoned bloodworms to suck her blood. Bi Yao immediately felt a pain worse than death, suffering immensely. Zhang Xiaofan noticed that this courtyard had not seen any change in guards during the chaos in Dinghai Village, realizing that this place must be extraordinary.

The two suddenly attacked the guards and burst into the courtyard. Disciples of Changsheng Hall suddenly released a poisonous mist, completely surrounding Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu. Yuyangzi accused them of colluding with the demoness of the Demonic Sect. Qinglong appeared and caused a diversion, allowing Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu to seize the opportunity to escape the courtyard, where they encountered Yun Shu. Yun Shu gave them an antidote.

She told Zhang Xiaofan that Lin Jingyu might have been poisoned too deeply and had not yet woken up. Only then did Zhang Xiaofan realize that Yun Shu had been pretending to be mute. Yun Shu told Zhang Xiaofan that seven years ago, Situ Xiao deeply loved her, but he could not disobey his father's command and was about to marry another woman. Yet, Situ Xiao also did not want to let her down, finding himself in a dilemma.

Yun Shu was naturally heartbroken as well. On the day of Situ Xiao's wedding, she ran to the seaside and cried inconsolably, completely unaware of the tsunami that occurred. Yuyangzi, who had been infiltrating Dinghai Village for three years, rescued Yun Shu. After the tsunami, the old village master passed away, and Situ Xiao disappeared. Yuyangzi pretended to resettle the common people to win their hearts and took over Dinghai Village.

After Yun Shu told Zhang Xiaofan all this, she was willing to help him find Bi Yao's whereabouts, and at the same time, she pleaded with Zhang Xiaofan and the others that after rescuing Bi Yao, they help her drive away Yuyangzi and find Situ Xiao. Their attempt to rescue failed, leading to their identities being exposed. Lin Jingyu regretted letting Zhang Xiaofan and Bi Yao meet and prepared to inform Xiao Yicai about Yuyangzi's situation.

Xiao Yicai pretended that Yuyangzi hadn't noticed him, thus deceiving Lin Jingyu. Xiao Yicai feigned asking Yuyangzi about the whereabouts of Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu. He told Yuyangzi that precisely because of Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu's extraordinary relationship with Bi Yao, fearing that they might be swayed by Bi Yao, he had handed Bi Yao over to Yuyangzi for handling.

Yuyangzi told Xiao Yicai that Bi Yao was already in his hands and would no longer cause any trouble. The Ghost King Sect would not be able to find Bi Yao's whereabouts. Yuyangzi instructed Xiao Yicai to go outside the city to scout for any movements of the Ghost King Sect. At this moment, Bi Yao also learned about Situ Xiao's emotional entanglement with Yun Shu from him.

However, Bi Yao was growing weaker and weaker due to the bloodworms sucking her blood. Meng Ji pressed Bi Yao, asking if she agreed to write the letter. Bi Yao feigned compliance. Yuyangzi instructed Meng Ji to let Yun Shu go inside and for Meng Ji to wait outside, so there would be no fear of Bi Yao playing any tricks. Yun Shu entered the cell and saw Situ Xiao. The former lovers gazed into each other's eyes, speechless and choked with emotion.

Episode 27 Recap

Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu came to rescue Biyao, who was in critical condition and at death's door. Situ Xiao, dragging his heavily wounded body, encouraged Biyao to hold on. Inside the cave, Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu were being pursued by Meng Ji. Lin Jingyu single-handedly blocked Meng Ji, allowing Zhang Xiaofan and Yun Shu to go save Biyao. Zhang Xiaofan entered the cave and found Biyao unconscious on the side, immediately providing treatment.

Unexpectedly, when they tried to escape the cave, they encountered Yuyangzi. Lin Jingyu drew his sword to entangle Yuyangzi, letting the four of them leave first. However, the cave entrance slowly closed, trapping Lin Jingyu. The four escaped outside the cave. Seeing that Situ Xiao was about to pass away, he slowly closed his eyes after exchanging seven years of unspoken love with Yun Shu. Yun Shu was heartbroken.

After Yuyangzi captured Lin Jingyu, he intended to kill him, but Xiao Yicai arrived and rescued him. After her grief, Yun Shu decided to use her spiritual power to revive Situ Xiao. Situ Xiao slowly regained consciousness but was still not fully awake. As Zhang Xiaofan wondered who Yun Shu really was, Meng Ji's voice came from a distant mountaintop. Meng Ji was searching the mountain with his guards.

Without further ado, Yun Shu asked Zhang Xiaofan and Biyao to quickly escape with Situ Xiao, while she changed into Biyao's clothes and jumped off the cliff under Meng Ji's gaze. Zhang Xiaofan and Biyao took the still unconscious Situ Xiao and fled to the seaside. Seeing that night had fallen, they lit a fire. The two sat by the bonfire, chatting.

Biyao finally asked a question that she had wanted to ask for a long time but had kept buried in her heart. She realized that Zhang Xiaofan was the young boy who had given her a bun when she fainted in the cave years ago. At once, memories of their past brought tears to her eyes, and then, remembering that she had finally found the young boy from back then, joy filled her heart.

For a moment, she was overwhelmed with mixed emotions. Situ Xiao finally woke up, but when he discovered Yun Shu had disappeared again, he nearly collapsed. He knelt facing the sea and slowly recounted his past to Zhang Xiaofan and Biyao. Situ Xiao asked Zhang Xiaofan and Biyao if their purpose in coming to Dinghai Manor this time was to search for the Heavenly Tome. They gave an affirmative answer.

However, Zhang Xiaofan and Biyao were told that there was currently no trace of the Heavenly Tome, and no one even knew if it was still in Dinghai Manor. But from Situ Xiao, Zhang Xiaofan and Biyao learned that only by finding the Dinghai Pearl could they obtain the Heavenly Tome. To get the Dinghai Pearl, the three decided to return to the manor to search for it.

The three secretly slipped back into the manor through a small hole behind it. They discovered that Qinglong was also there, and Xiao Yicai was being held under house arrest by Yuyangzi in his room. The entire manor was now under Yuyangzi's control. Lin Jingyu was tied up in front of the manor gate. He passionately recounted Yuyangzi's actions to the villagers inside, but not a single person believed him.

Episode 28 Recap

Zhang Xiaofan and Bi Yao learned from Situ Xiao that only by finding the Dinghaizhu could they obtain the Heavenly Book. So, the trio returned to the mountain villa, hoping to be fortunate enough to find the Dinghaizhu. The three secretly slipped into the mountain villa through a small hole behind it, unexpectedly discovering that Qing Long was also there. Xiao Yicai was put under house arrest by Yu Yangzi in his room.

Now, the entire mountain villa was under Yu Yangzi's control. Lin Jingyu, who was tied up at the villa's gate, tearfully denounced Yu Yangzi's evil deeds to the villagers gathered at the entrance, but everyone had been deceived by Yu Yangzi's hypocritical facade, and no one believed Lin Jingyu's statements. Bi Yao and Zhang Xiaofan, among others, worked together to rescue Lin Jingyu. Young Master Situ also regained control of the mountain villa.

After taking his pulse, Qing Long determined that Zhang Xiaofan had only been affected by toxic smoke and was not seriously ill. Lin Jingyu arrived at this moment. He coldly ordered Bi Yao and Qing Long to leave, stating that he would take good care of Xiaofan. Bi Yao was worried about Xiaofan's safety, but under Lin Jingyu's and Qing Long's insistence, she could only leave, looking back reluctantly multiple times.

Situ Xiao sincerely thanked everyone for helping him regain control of the villa. Qing Long took the opportunity to request to borrow the Dinghaizhu. Lin Jingyu and Qing Long argued endlessly over the ownership of the Dinghaizhu.

Situ Xiao stated that he would do his utmost to find the Dinghaizhu, but to pacify the dispute between the two factions, Situ Xiao decided to entrust the Dinghaizhu to Bi Yao and Zhang Xiaofan, believing that they would surely come up with a solution that pleased both sides. Lin Jingyu and Zhang Xiaofan discussed the search for the Dinghaizhu.

In fact, Zhang Xiaofan did not want to find the Dinghaizhu; he did not want to be an enemy of Bi Yao. Actually, Bi Yao also did not want the Ghost King to obtain the Heavenly Book and revive the Beast God. Qing Long noticed Bi Yao's absentmindedness. He pointed out that Bi Yao was favoring Zhang Xiaofan, always making concessions for him, and pressed her, asking if she had fallen in love with Zhang Xiaofan.

Bi Yao tried to deny it. Qing Long once again emphasized to her that the righteous path and the demonic path could never truly be together, advising her not to be naive anymore. Zhang Xiaofan's words enlightened Situ Xiao. They found the long-sought Dinghaizhu in a lamp stand in the room. Situ Xiao stated that since Xiaofan had found this item, Xiaofan had the right to decide its ownership. Xiaofan held the Dinghaizhu, his heart a mix of conflicting emotions.

Qing Long's words still caused some conflict for Bi Yao. The moment Bi Yao saw Zhang Xiaofan, she told him that the righteous and demonic paths were fundamentally different and urged him to be direct. From Xiaofan's reaction, Bi Yao learned that Xiaofan had already obtained the Dinghaizhu. Bi Yao felt wronged because her desire for the Heavenly Book was only to help Xiaofan remove the Heavenly Book from his body.

However, Xiaofan stated that he could not yield on this matter, because once her father obtained the Heavenly Book, he would revive the divine beast, causing irreparable consequences. In a fit of emotion, Bi Yao pointed a dagger at Xiaofan's neck. Lin Jingyu and Qing Long arrived one after another, witnessing this scene. Bi Yao, deeply saddened, moved the dagger away and turned to leave. Xiaofan returned the Dinghaizhu to Situ Xiao.

Situ Xiao believed that keeping this item would only attract covetous thieves, so he discarded it by the lake, intending to destroy it. Unexpectedly, Yu Yangzi obtained it. Everyone then discovered that the Heavenly Book was within Dinghai Villa, but because the person who buried the Heavenly Book years ago had set a taboo, no one could use their magic.

Episode 29 Recap

Xiao Fan learned that Bi Yao was in danger, so he rushed to rescue her alone. However, he and Bi Yao ended up trapped together, falling into the space of the Heavenly Book. Meanwhile, Qing Long and Jing Yu also set aside their differences. Together with the self-sacrificing Situ Xiao, they united to fight Yu Yangzi and rescue Bi Yao and Xiao Fan.

When Bi Yao woke up, she realized that she and Xiao Fan were actually in the space of the Heavenly Book, so she quickly woke Xiao Fan. After Xiao Fan woke up, he discovered that all his injuries had healed themselves. Situ Xiao saw a familiar figure. He pursued her relentlessly to the seaside, where the person removed her veil. Situ Xiao was greatly surprised; this person was Yun Shu, whom he had longed for.

Yun Shu told him that she was originally a daughter of the Sea Clan. When her people migrated, she was playful and got separated, thus ending up here. Previously, she could barely sustain herself with the power of his Sea-Calming Pearl. Their current meeting was also made possible because her parents sacrificed half their lifespan to grant her the ability to come and see him. Hearing this, Situ Xiao was grief-stricken and begged Yun Shu to stay by his side.

Yun Shu confessed that the calamity at the manor was also related to her. On the day Situ Xiao was to be married, she wept in sorrow, unintentionally causing a tsunami, and Yu Yangzi took the opportunity to seize the manor. Therefore, her purpose in coming this time was to help Situ Xiao defeat Yu Yangzi.

Situ Xiao was unconcerned by Yun Shu's unintentional mistake, stating that after defeating Yu Yangzi, he would follow Yun Shu, no matter where they went, to the ends of the earth. In the space of the Heavenly Book, Bi Yao and Xiao Fan encountered the memory left by the first master of Dinghai Manor.

He thanked Xiao Fan and Bi Yao for protecting Dinghai Manor but reminded Xiao Fan that he already had one volume of the Heavenly Book inside him. If this volume of the Heavenly Book were also given to him, he would gain immense power capable of fighting Yu Yangzi, but a mortal body might find it unbearable, with the risk of exploding and dying.

Xiao Fan did not want the Heavenly Book to fall into Yu Yangzi's hands, so to defeat Yu Yangzi, he was willing to take the risk. Yu Yangzi's subordinates could not find Bi Yao and Xiao Fan's whereabouts. The impatient Yu Yangzi resolved to initiate the Taiyin Blood Array, attempting to drain everyone's vital essence through it. Yun Shu, Jing Yu, and the others fought desperately but could not turn the tide.

Xiao Fan used the power of the Heavenly Book within him to contend with Yu Yangzi. He defeated Yu Yangzi but was also injured. Fortunately, Bi Yao used the magic of the Sad Flower to help Xiao Fan seal the power of the Heavenly Book within him, so Xiao Fan was temporarily out of danger. This battle exhausted all of Yun Shu's magic. Yun Shu could only return to the sea.

She instructed Situ Xiao that Dinghai Manor was his responsibility. Zhou Yixian, accustomed to a carefree life, could no longer stay in Yudou City and wanted to leave. Xiao Huan playfully pleaded with her grandfather, saying that Zeng Shushu had been busy revitalizing Yudou City recently, so he hadn't taken good care of him. Zhou Yixian, unable to resist his beloved granddaughter's charm, agreed to stay and help Zeng Shushu.

Bi Yao was decocting medicine for Xiao Fan when Aunt You arrived, ordering Bi Yao to return to Fox Mountain with her tomorrow without fail. Bi Yao, having no choice, could only obey. Chu Yicai wanted Zhang Xiaofan to get the Heavenly Book from Bi Yao. Xiao Fan was unwilling; he believed Bi Yao was kind-hearted and that he would persuade her not to hand over the Heavenly Book casually.

Facing Chu Yicai's aggressiveness, Lin Jingyu could only state that he would retrieve the Heavenly Book from the Ghost King Sect. Qing Long took the medicine Bi Yao had prepared and delivered it to Xiao Fan, using the opportunity to arrange a meeting between him and Bi Yao. On the way, he met Lin Jingyu. Jing Yu handed the medicine to Xiao Fan but did not tell him about Bi Yao's invitation to meet.

Late at night, Bi Yao was lost in thought, waiting until early the next morning, only to be met by Lin Jingyu. Bi Yao stated that her desire for the Heavenly Book was solely to heal Xiao Fan. Lin Jingyu asked Bi Yao to produce the Heavenly Book. Bi Yao replied that if Xiao Fan were to ask her for it, she would hand it over to him without hesitation. Jing Yu told Xiao Fan what had happened. Xiao Fan decided to go and meet Bi Yao, while Chu Yicai watched everything with a cold eye.

Episode 30 Recap

Late at night, when all was quiet, Zeng Shushu hid alone in his room, drowning his sorrows in alcohol. Xiao Huan came to him. She knew Zeng Shushu missed Grandpa Wei, so she comforted him, saying that life was unpredictable, and he just needed to understand what he was doing and then look forward. Xiao Huan's words brought Zeng Shushu some comfort.

Zeng Shushu told Xiao Huan that Jingyu and Xiao Yicai had already returned to Qing Yun, and only Xiao Fan was following Bi Yao, hoping to obtain the Heavenly Book. He couldn't help but worry about Xiao Fan's safety. Xiao Huan told him that Xiao Fan would not be in danger.

Once, on stage, Bi Yao had temporarily changed the ending of the play, and at that time, Bi Yao had expressed to Xiao Fan that even though good and evil were on different paths, they could be together as long as they loved each other, and she could even give up her identity as the Ghost King Sect's daughter. Xiao Huan said that even though things were unpredictable, people's hearts didn't change so easily.

Zeng Shushu heard this and fell into thought. Yu Yangzi, whose cultivation was greatly damaged, walked dejectedly on a path in the suburbs. Seeing countless venomous snakes and hearing a familiar flute sound, he loudly called out "Poison God." A masked man walked out. He threatened Yu Yangzi into revealing the whereabouts of the Heavenly Book, stating that he would get justice for Yu Yangzi from those people.

By the mountain stream, Bi Yao recalled everything that had happened between her and Xiao Fan recently, feeling lost and melancholic. Aunt You, watching from the side, was heartbroken, even wanting to kill Xiao Fan. Qing Long said that there were not many people in this world willing to go through fire and water to save Bi Yao like Zhang Xiao Fan. He hoped Aunt You could stand in Bi Yao's shoes and think about what she truly wanted.

Xiao Fan followed all the way, arriving at the mountain stream where Bi Yao and Qing Long were temporarily staying. Qing Long and Xiao Fan fought fiercely. Afterwards, Qing Long questioned Xiao Fan why he betrayed Bi Yao. It turned out that Bi Yao had told Qing Long that she had been knocked unconscious and taken away from the inn that day, and after waking up, she found herself trapped by Yu Yangzi.

Only Lin Jingyu and Xiao Fan knew where Bi Yao was hiding. Xiao Fan looked bewildered and stated firmly that Jingyu would not betray Bi Yao. Qing Long also felt suspicious in his heart, suspecting that it was Xiao Yicai who did it that day. Xiao Fan told Qing Long that as long as Bi Yao promised not to use the Heavenly Book to revive the divine beast, then he wouldn't mind handing the Heavenly Book over to Bi Yao.

Qing Long told Xiao Fan that Bi Yao and her companions had already set off towards the southwest. Xiao Fan pursued them. On the way back to Qing Yun, Jingyu and Xiao Yicai. Xiao Yicai's internal poison flared up, and he could only desperately use his internal energy to suppress it. Qing Long, who had already confirmed that it was Xiao Yicai who framed Bi Yao, arrived, wanting to kill Xiao Yicai to avenge Bi Yao.

Xiao Yicai stated that he had already been poisoned by the Ghost King Sect. Qing Long decided to spare him for now. After all, he was a pawn placed by the Ghost King Sect in Qing Yun, meant for him to become the most reputable disciple after returning to Qing Yun, always ready to serve the Ghost King Sect.

Episode 31 Recap

Under the tree, Biyou was eating the meat Xiaofan grilled for her, praising it repeatedly. Xiaofan said that if Biyou found it delicious, he could make it for her in the future. A trace of sadness flashed in Biyou's eyes. She knew very clearly that there was a chasm between her and Xiaofan that could not be bridged, so she didn't know if they had a future together. Xiaofan saw Biyou's disappointment.

He comforted Biyou, saying that future matters could be discussed later, and for now, she should just eat more. Biyou said this was the second most delicious thing she had ever eaten in her life. Xiaofan pressed her about what the most delicious thing was, but Biyou smiled playfully and insisted on not telling him. The two continued to laugh and tease each other like this. Biyou fell asleep leaning on Xiaofan's shoulder.

Fearing to wake Biyou, Xiaofan dared not move at all, and sat motionless until he also fell asleep. When Xiaofan fainted, Biyou had sealed the second volume of the Heavenly Book with the Sorrowful Flower, so the second volume of the Heavenly Book was now preserved within the Sorrowful Flower.

Qin Wuyan, who had orchestrated taking the Sorrowful Flower, presented it and the Heavenly Book contained within to the Ghost King, expressing his sincerity and seeking cooperation with the Ghost King, though he secretly had other plans. Qin Wuyan deliberately tried to sow discord between Qingyun and the Ghost King Sect, claiming that he had snatched the Heavenly Book from a Qingyun disciple.

Even if the Ghost King didn't believe Qin Wuyan's words, he didn't refuse him for the time being. The next day, Biyou told Zhang Xiaofan that she was going back and asked him to find his senior brother. Xiaofan hesitantly said that he still hadn't found the whereabouts of the Heavenly Book. Hearing this, Biyou threw a small tantrum, thinking that Xiaofan wasn't actually concerned about her, but merely worried about the Heavenly Book's whereabouts.

Xiaofan quickly explained and apologized to Biyou, as he hadn't known she had waited all night. Biyou stated that the Sorrowful Flower had been cunningly taken by people from the Myriad Poison Sect, but Aunt You was already trying to track it down. Xiaofan was still concerned that the Ghost King might use the Heavenly Book for other purposes.

Biyou huffily declared that she would bid farewell to Xiaofan, and then walked off on her own, with Xiaofan following closely behind. Biyou arrived at a small pavilion in the mountains and saw her father. After her father gave her a meaningful look, Biyou said nothing and quietly sat to one side. The Ghost King introduced himself as Wan Renwang and invited Xiaofan to sit down and enjoy tea with him. The Ghost King and Xiaofan chatted idly.

The Ghost King expressed his great interest in the fire-stoking stick in Xiaofan's hand. After getting Xiaofan's consent, the Ghost King took it to examine closely. Then, he asked Xiaofan if his vital blood was on the stick. Xiaofan thought for a moment, and the Ghost King got an affirmative answer from Xiaofan's expression.

The Ghost King told Xiaofan that the Blood-Devouring Bead on the stick was a sacred item of the Demonic Sect, a relic of the Demonic Sect's patriarch, the Black Hearted Elder. And this unassuming-looking black short stick was originally a naturally ominous and malevolent object, named Soul-Capturing Rod. Xiaofan's expression changed upon hearing this. He didn't know why he had come into contact with such an evil object.

The Ghost King pressed him on why he considered these to be evil objects. Xiaofan replied that it was because these evil objects were used by villains to harm living beings. The Ghost King wanted to argue that one should view evil objects dialectically, telling him that the Immortal-Slaying Sword, revered as a divine object by Qingyun, had also killed countless living beings during the war between good and evil a thousand years ago.

He then asked Xiaofan how he explained his use of a Demonic Sect's evil object. Xiaofan stated that although his magical artifact was an evil object, he used it to slay demons and eradicate evil, which was the righteous path, and he had a clear conscience. The Ghost King greatly admired Xiaofan's argument, stating that he had surpassed the vast majority of people in this world.

Xiaofan realized that the person before him was no ordinary individual, so he asked who he truly was. Biyou, who had been sitting silently aside, now stood up and called out 'Father' to the man. Xiaofan instantly understood. Biyou left with her father. The Ghost King took out the Sorrowful Flower and told Biyou to return to Fox Mountain with him, and then he would return the Sorrowful Flower to her.

Seeing Biyou repeatedly utter Zhang Xiaofan's name, the Ghost King already understood Biyou's feelings. He told Biyou that he knew Zhang Xiaofan had saved her from danger multiple times, and he would find an opportunity to repay the favor. Biyou was overjoyed at this, but the Ghost King added that it would also depend on whether Xiaofan would come to Fox Mountain to find Biyou.

Biyou then felt a trace of uneasiness, as she wasn't sure if Xiaofan would come looking for her. The Ghost King's words had a certain impact on Xiaofan. After much thought, he still hadn't come up with a clear answer, so he decided to first help Biyou find the Sorrowful Flower before returning to Qingyun Sect. At Fox Mountain at this time, Biyou and her father worked together to extract the Heavenly Book from the Sorrowful Flower.

Biyou was worried that her father would use the Heavenly Book to revive a divine beast, but her father assured her that the Heavenly Book was an ancient divine artifact and he would not cultivate it rashly. Before they could finish speaking, someone announced that Xiaofan had arrived. Biyou was very happy about Xiaofan's arrival. The Ghost King had been constantly trying to find ways to make Xiaofan serve his sect.

On the way back to Qingyun, Xiao Yicai and Lin Jingyu were traveling when Xiao Yicai's poison flared up. Lin Jingyu helped him heal, but his physical strength was depleted.

Xiao Yicai recalled that he had once been forced by the Ghost King to drink the Blood of the Beast God, which greatly increased his magical power but also came at a cost: every full moon, he would transform into a bloodthirsty monster, and anyone who came into contact with his blood would also be transformed into a beast. Xiao Yicai was determined to save himself, so he added his own blood to the medicine he gave Lin Jingyu.

Episode 32 Recap

Xiao Fan arrived at Fox Ridge (Hu Qi Shan), where he and Bi Yao had a heart-to-heart talk under the moonlight. He learned that the Ghost King had already extracted the second volume of the Heavenly Book from the Heartbreak Flower. Bi Yao told Xiao Fan that the Ghost King had promised to help Xiao Fan remove the Heavenly Book from his body.

Bi Yao's intention was good; she didn't want Xiao Fan to be discovered by his master upon returning to Qing Yun, as that would risk expulsion from the sect. However, Xiao Fan stated that he needed to speak with the Ghost King in person. Xiao Yi Cai met with his master privately and falsely accused Lin Jing Yu and Xiao Fan of colluding with the Ghost King.

Dao Xuan thought it unlikely, as Lin Jing Yu and Xiao Fan had a deep blood feud with the Ghost King. But Xiao Yi Cai claimed Xiao Fan had been beguiled by Bi Yao, which made Dao Xuan begin to believe Xiao Yi Cai's nonsense. Xiao Fan met with the Ghost King.

Facing the wine offered by the Ghost King, he drank it without showing any fear, which greatly impressed the Ghost King, as it indicated Xiao Fan did not doubt his character. Xiao Fan got straight to the point, asking the Ghost King if he still remembered Grass Temple Village (Cao Miao Cun). He questioned the Ghost King whether the massacre of the entire village was related to him.

The Ghost King adamantly denied it, stating that he was absolutely not responsible for the incident, and that he acted openly and would certainly admit anything he had done. The Ghost King retorted, asking Xiao Fan if, after so many years in Qing Yun and with Grass Temple Village at the foot of Qing Yun Mountain, the Qing Yun people had not thoroughly investigated the matter.

Xiao Fan nodded, saying they had investigated, but the Ghost King pointed out the crucial issue: it wasn't that they couldn't find anything, but that they hadn't investigated with true intent, or perhaps someone was deliberately obstructing the truth from coming to light. Following this, the Ghost King tried to persuade Xiao Fan to join his sect, but Xiao Fan refused without hesitation.

The Ghost King told Xiao Fan that Bi Yao was worried the Heavenly Book inside him would turn him into a dim-witted person and had earnestly pleaded with him to help Xiao Fan remove the Heavenly Book from his body. He also told Xiao Fan that if he served him, he would inject the second volume of the Heavenly Book into his body as well, to help him cultivate and greatly enhance his power.

Xiao Fan retorted, asking the Ghost King if he would undoubtedly die if he refused to join the Ghost King Sect. The Ghost King replied with two words: "Precisely." However, Xiao Fan believed that his death could prevent suffering for all living beings, and thus would be a death well-deserved. He unequivocally rejected the Ghost King, telling him he would never obey him.

Enraged, the Ghost King wanted to kill Xiao Fan, but Bi Yao stood in front of Xiao Fan, forcing the Ghost King to give up. Lin Jing Yu truthfully recounted all his experiences along the way to Master Cang Song and Dao Xuan. However, Dao Xuan was very displeased with the outcome of Bi Yao obtaining a volume of the Heavenly Book and was half-believing, half-doubting Jing Yu's words.

Daoist Priest Cang Song intervened, persuading Dao Xuan to wait for Xiao Fan's return to confront him in person and make a decision after understanding the full story. Xiao Yi Cai, having failed with one scheme, devised another. He walked out with Jing Yu and cast a spell on Jing Yu from behind, causing Jing Yu to lose his sanity and exhibit beast-like behavior. This also alarmed the spirit beasts.

Dao Xuan and Cang Song rushed over and used their magic to suppress Jing Yu. Tian Bu Yi and Su Ru learned of this incident. Su Ru immediately wanted to confront Cang Song, but Tian Bu Yi believed there was something fishy about the matter, and the most urgent task was to save Lin Jing Yu's life. Afterward, he went to speak with Dao Xuan in person.

Tian Bu Yi reasoned with Dao Xuan, appealing to both his emotions and logic, urging him to act cautiously. He suggested that this incident was very likely a deliberate provocation by members of the Demonic Sect, just like years ago, when Dao Xuan was the sect leader, and Tian Bu Yi himself was deliberately alienated by Demonic Sect members, leading to a rift between them. He reminded Dao Xuan not to repeat the same mistakes.

You Yi, drawing on her own experiences, advised Bi Yao and Xiao Fan to end their relationship. However, Bi Yao was unwilling. You Yi pressed her, asking, "Then are you willing for him to die?" Bi Yao understood You Yi's implied meaning and was deeply conflicted. While walking on the mountain, Xiao Fan encountered Qin Wu Yan. The two engaged in a fierce fight.

The Ghost King arrived to stop them, stating that personal vendettas were not allowed within the territory of Fox Ridge (Hu Qi Shan). Xiao Fan prepared a lavish meal for Bi Yao, then bade her farewell, instructing her to take good care of herself. Bi Yao understood his difficulties but was still filled with immense reluctance to part. Facing Daoist Priest Cang Song's questioning, Lin Jing Yu stated that he absolutely had not colluded with the Demonic Sect.

Cang Song secretly pondered, worried that Lin Jing Yu might turn against him if he learned the truth of what happened years ago. Upon hearing about Jing Yu's predicament at Qing Yun, Lu Xue Qi immediately prepared to rush to Qing Yun.

Episode 33 Recap

Daoist Cangsong insisted on crippling Jingyu's cultivation. Jingyu vehemently pleaded his innocence, stating that he would rather die than bear the name of betraying his sect. He also said that Xiaofan could prove his innocence. Unexpectedly, Daoist Cangsong became even angrier upon hearing Xiaofan's name. He believed Xiaofan was more likely to be colluding with the Demonic Sect because Biyao had taken the Heavenly Book from Xiaofan's hands. Jingyu understood why his master was angry upon hearing this.

He told his master that if someone had to be punished for the loss of the Heavenly Book, he was willing to be that person. Xueqi met with the Sect Leader, informing him that after the Seven Meridians Martial Competition, beastmen had appeared in Qingyun. Xiaofan and Jingyu both detected the anomaly, and Cangsong began investigating the matter. The Sect Leader had never heard Cangsong mention this to him, and he couldn't help but feel suspicious.

Xueqi guaranteed that Jingyu absolutely could not be colluding with the Demonic Sect and earnestly requested the Sect Leader to revoke his order. The Sect Leader stated that at present, only by crippling his martial arts could he undergo a cleansing of his essence. He assured Xueqi that he had no intention of harming Jingyu's life.

Xiao Yicai falsely relayed the Sect Leader's command, telling Cangsong that the Sect Leader had instructed him to send Jingyu down the mountain after crippling his cultivation. Cangsong stated that he would abide by the decision to cripple his cultivation, but whether to expel Jingyu from the sect was a matter for Dragon Head Peak. He accused Xiao Yicai of overstepping his authority with this action. Cangsong ruthlessly crippled Jingyu's cultivation.

Jingyu was in excruciating pain, and Xueqi waited worriedly outside the door. Xiaofan was awoken by a nightmare. Worried about Jingyu, he stated that he had to return to Qingyun as soon as possible. Biyao was concerned because Xiaofan, as a Qingyun disciple, possessed techniques from another sect. If his master discovered this, he might be expelled from Qingyun. Xiaofan stated that as a Qingyun disciple, he ought to return.

Biyao led Xiaofan to her mother's grave because it was the anniversary of her mother's death. At her mother's grave, Biyao told Xiaofan that she used to believe everything could be changed, but now she realized she was wrong. Xiaofan apologized to Biyao, telling her that they, as righteous and evil, were on different paths. Biyao stated that there was no need for them to meet again in the future.

Afterwards, Biyao placed the second volume of the Heavenly Book into Xiaofan's body. She told Xiaofan that she would help him leave as quickly as possible before her father noticed. As they were about to part ways, Xiaofan urged Biyao to take care of herself. At this moment, the Six-tailed Fox Demon was being chased by people from Incense Valley. Biyao and Xiaofan arrived, and the Six-tailed Fox Demon entrusted Xiao Qi to Xiaofan.

The people from Incense Valley attacked the Six-tailed Fox Demon fiercely to retrieve the Xuanhuo Mirror. The Ghost King arrived in time and saved the Six-tailed Fox Demon. It turned out that the Ghost King had sent the Six-tailed Fox Demon to steal the Xuanhuo Mirror, but the Six-tailed Fox Demon was struck by ice thorns. Without the fire-cold power of the Xuanhuo Mirror for treatment, the Six-tailed Fox Demon would surely die.

The Ghost King told the Six-tailed Fox Demon to first try to suppress the cold poison in his body, and that he would treat his wounds after sending someone to retrieve the Xuanhuo Mirror. However, the Six-tailed Fox Demon stated that he knew someone with excellent medical skills who could help him, and then he departed. While saving the Six-tailed Fox Demon, the Ghost King realized that Biyao was secretly sending Xiaofan down the mountain.

The Ghost King brought Xiaofan back to Fox Ridge Mountain and imprisoned him. Biyao pleaded with her father to release Xiaofan. The Ghost King stated that Lin Jingyu had already been branded with the crime of colluding with the Demonic Sect and had his cultivation completely crippled. Sending Xiaofan back now would not result in anything better. Biyao was moved by these words. Xiao Yicai escorted Lin Jingyu down the mountain.

Jingyu entrusted Xiao Yicai to take good care of Xiaofan once he returned. At this time, Lin Jingyu was unaware that it was Xiao Yicai who had put him in such a predicament. As Jingyu turned to leave, Tian Buyi arrived.

He stated that the matter had not yet been thoroughly investigated and that he had come on his master's orders to bring Jingyu back, asking Jingyu to temporarily stay in the ancestral hall on the back mountain to reflect on his misfortune. In the ancestral hall, Wan Jianyi helped Jingyu regulate his qi and blood and rebuild his foundation, so that he would no longer be susceptible to the invasion of demonic energy.

Tian Buyi comforted Jingyu, telling him that crippling his martial arts was a good thing. He had been too rash in his previous training, and now he could use this opportunity to re-cultivate his martial arts. Wan Jianyi told Tian Buyi that he saw his own shadow in Jingyu. Tian Buyi told Wan Jianyi to forget the past and entrusted him to take good care of Jingyu. Xueqi was determined to help Jingyu uncover the truth of the matter.

Jingyu stated that there were beastmen following them on the way back, and Xiao Yicai had even exchanged blows with them. Cangsong explained to Daoxuan why he hadn't informed him about the beastmen's attack in time. Tian Buyi, standing nearby, didn't believe Cangsong's explanation at all. He confronted Cangsong as Jingyu's master, who had crippled his disciple's cultivation without distinguishing right from wrong. Cangsong and Tian Buyi argued heatedly.

Daoxuan stated that the current plan was to recall Xiaofan to understand the situation, and he dispatched Xueqi down the mountain to find Xiaofan. At Fox Ridge Mountain, Ghost Master led Xiaofan to a secluded spot. Taking advantage of Xiaofan's unpreparedness, he intended to extract the Heavenly Book from his body. Biyao arrived in time, blocking Ghost Master's actions by standing in front of Xiaofan. Biyao fainted, and the Ghost King, who arrived shortly after, embraced Biyao, deeply pained.

Episode 34 Recap

Bi Yao, unconscious on the bed, was still calling out Xiao Fan's name. The Ghost King, sitting by her side, was heartbroken, sighing that Bi Yao was just like her mother. It turned out that years ago, Bi Yao's mother, Xiao Chi, disregarded her sister's warnings and exhausted hundreds of years of spiritual power to heal the Ghost King, staying by his side devotedly, but sacrificing her own lifespan in the process.

The Ghost King couldn't bear to see his daughter suffer such torment, so he cast a spell to extract Bi Yao's memories, storing them in a magical artifact. You Ji rushed over to look after Bi Yao and, seeing the Ghost King's actions, questioned what he had done to Bi Yao. Upon learning the truth, You Ji accused the Ghost King of deceiving himself.

The Ghost King retorted, asking if she and Wan Jian Yi hadn't also tried their utmost to be together back then, yet a hundred years had passed, and she was still in pain. The Ghost King confessed that he didn't want Bi Yao to suffer the same torment. You Ji was left speechless. Ghost Senior apologized to the Ghost King for accidentally injuring Bi Yao. The Ghost King comforted him, telling him not to take it to heart.

The Ghost King said that for the time being, they couldn't extract the Heavenly Book from Xiao Fan's body, so it would be better to let him return to Qing Yun. However, he worried that Xiao Fan might end up like Lin Jing Yu. Ghost Senior suggested that as long as the two of them kept it a secret and Xiao Yi Cai cooperated with Xiao Fan, it wouldn't be impossible to hide it from the people of Qing Yun.

In the Ancestral Hall of Qing Yun, Lin Jing Yu was diligently cleaning the hall. Wan Jian Yi noticed Jing Yu's dejection and asked if he regretted his actions. Jing Yu unequivocally stated that he had no regrets because he hadn't done anything wrong.

Wan Jian Yi told Jing Yu a story: years ago, there was a young man, just like Jing Yu, exceptionally talented and the most favored disciple of Qing Yun, but his future was ruined because of a relationship with a Demonic Sect woman. Jing Yu said he had heard of this matter, and that disciple was named Jian Yi.

What Jing Yu didn't know at the time was that the person named Wan Jian Yi was the mysterious old man in front of him. Wan Jian Yi was unwilling to reveal his identity. He told Jing Yu that the sect leader back then had once been very optimistic about the relationship between Jian Yi and the Demonic Sect woman, even believing it could resolve the misunderstandings between Qing Yun and the Demonic Sect.

However, it was later discovered that the Demonic Sect woman was tasked with dismantling Qing Yun and stealing the Zhuxian Sword, which led to the imminent outbreak of the war between good and evil. Several Qing Yun disciples lost their lives in that battle. After Dao Xuan succeeded as sect leader, he swore that Qing Yun and the Demonic Sect would be irreconcilable enemies. Jing Yu seemed to guess that Wan Jian Yi was the old man before him.

He pressed on, asking if that Qing Yun disciple from back then had ever regretted it. Wan Jian Yi did not respond. You Ji saw Xiao Fan off from Fox Mount Qi. She urged Xiao Fan not to contact Bi Yao anymore, explaining that the division between good and evil was like an insurmountable chasm. Xiao Fan declared that he would not give up until the very last step, his eyes filled with determination.

Qin Wu Yan had been staying as a guest on Fox Mount Qi. Bi Yao, having lost her memories, saw Qin Wu Yan and asked him who he was. Qin Wu Yan concealed his identity, telling Bi Yao that he was a friend of the Azure Dragon Envoy. On his way back, Xiao Fan encountered Lu Xue Qi, who had come looking for him. Xue Qi pressed him, asking where he had gone after separating from Jing Yu.

Xiao Fan truthfully explained that he had gone to find Bi Yao to recover the Heavenly Book. Xiao Fan asked about Jing Yu's current situation. Xue Qi took out a letter and told Xiao Fan that his mistress had asked her to give it to him. In the letter, his mistress urged Xiao Fan to avoid the messenger and flee quickly, not to return to Qing Yun for the time being.

She would inform him once the matter of Lin Jing Yu's beast transformation was thoroughly investigated. Only then did Zhang Xiao Fan realize something had happened to Jing Yu. He lied, claiming he still had unfinished business and couldn't return to Qing Yun yet. Unexpectedly, Lu Xue Qi drew her sword against him. Zhang Xiao Fan, unwilling to fight his senior sister, defused her attack with a single move.

Lu Xue Qi was stunned because she recognized that the technique Xiao Fan had just used was a Demonic Sect cultivation method. Xiao Fan stated that once the matter was clear, he would personally confess his transgressions to the sect. Xue Qi left in anger. Zeng Shu Shu arrived and took Xiao Fan back to Yudou City.

Zeng Shu Shu told Xiao Fan that he had ceded the position of city lord to his cousin, Li Xun, for the sake of his grandfather, because Li Xun claimed to possess the Xuanhuo Jian, which could cure his petrified grandfather. Xiao Fan expressed his understanding, which deeply moved Zeng Shu Shu. However, Xiao Fan advised Zeng Shu Shu not to be careless and let Yudou fall into the hands of someone with ill intentions.

Xiao Huan thought Li Xun's actions were despicable, demanding conditions to save his own grandfather. Li Xun and his junior sister, Yan Hong, arrived upon hearing this. Yan Hong, unable to tolerate Xiao Huan's words, actually drew her sword and arrogantly declared that Yudou now belonged to Fenxiang Valley. When she made her move, Xiao Fan stopped her and left with Xiao Huan, Zeng Shu Shu, and the others. Yan Hong, holding the Xuanhuo Jian, gave chase.

Xue Qi arrived and reprimanded her for using immortal techniques against ordinary people. Yan Hong, in turn, accused Xiao Fan of colluding with Bi Yao. Xue Qi defeated Yan Hong. After returning, she questioned Xiao Fan about what exactly happened on Fox Mount Qi. Xiao Fan explained that it wasn't that he didn't want to return to Qing Yun, but that he couldn't.

On his way to Dinghai Manor, he had encountered beastmen, and later, he vaguely felt that the Demonic Sect was involved, so he rushed to the Demonic Sect to investigate. Upon hearing this, Xue Qi found Xiao Fan's words reasonable, as Jing Yu's beast transformation was indeed too strange. Meanwhile, Li Xun arrived aggressively, accusing Xiao Fan of stealing the Xuanhuo Jian. Xiao Fan looked bewildered.

In fact, the Xuanhuo Jian had been left behind by Yan Hong in Jinxiu Workshop. At this moment, the Xuanhuo Jian was in Xiao Huan's hands, but Xiao Huan, to punish Li Xun, temporarily had no intention of returning it to him. Zeng Shu Shu and Xiao Fan realized that the Xuanhuo Jian was closely related to resurrecting the Beast God. At this time, the Ghost King decided to send Qin Wu Yan to retrieve the Xuanhuo Jian.

Qin Wu Yan bid farewell to Bi Yao. When the topic of resurrecting the Beast God came up, Xiao Fan's words, "the Beast God must not be resurrected," flashed through Bi Yao's mind, and she decided to go to Yudou with Qin Wu Yan.

Episode 35 Recap

Huqi Mountain, Biyuan sat by the stream, staring at her Jin Ling in a daze. Qin Wuyan came to bid her farewell, telling her that he was going to Yudou to search for the Xuanhuo Mirror. Biyuan felt the name Yudou was very familiar, but she couldn't remember where it was. She found her father and told him she wanted to go to Yudou with Qin Wuyan. Her father, citing her incomplete recovery, told her to rest well at home.

Xiaohuan found Zeng Shushu and asked him for a magical artifact to enhance her spiritual power. Zeng Shushu, unable to resist Xiaohuan's persistent pestering, agreed to her request. When Xueqi went out, the arrogant and impolite Yanhong stopped her, accusing them of stealing the Xuanhuo Mirror. Xueqi was disinclined to argue with her and was about to leave when Li Xun rushed over to apologize to Xueqi, telling her that he had not intended to falsely accuse them.

He explained that a six-tailed fox demon stole the Xuanhuo Mirror, and while he and Yanhong were pursuing it, Xiaofan and the Ghost King intervened to save the six-tailed fox. He emphasized that the Xuanhuo Mirror was of great importance and must not fall into the hands of the Demonic Sect. Xueqi defended Xiaofan in front of Li Xun, telling him not to falsely accuse others without evidence.

However, to understand the situation, Xueqi questioned Xiaofan about what Li Xun had said. Xiaofan explained that the six-tailed fox was his friend, who had once saved his life. That day, when he saw the six-tailed fox being pursued by Li Xun, he stepped in to help. However, he did not know at the time that they were searching for the Xuanhuo Mirror, nor did he know what the Xuanhuo Mirror was.

Afterward, he was imprisoned by the Ghost King, and it was Biyuan who pleaded with Youji for his release. Xueqi stated that she knew Biyuan and Xiaofan had faced life and death together several times, but the righteous and demonic paths were fundamentally different. She pressed Xiaofan on what he truly thought. Xiaofan told her that he hadn't thought much, nor could he. Zeng Shushu told Xueqi that he believed Xiaofan could distinguish between personal feelings and greater righteousness.

No sooner had he finished speaking than Li Xun rushed past with his fellow disciples. He declared that someone was activating the Xuanhuo Mirror and ordered his disciples to immediately go find it. Zeng Shushu, recalling Xiaohuan's unusual actions that morning, cried out in alarm and hurried to find Xiaohuan. By the lake, Xiaohuan was using the magical artifact Zeng Shushu had given her to activate the Xuanhuo Mirror. A white-clothed masked woman appeared.

She took the Xuanhuo Mirror and tried to take Xiaohuan with her. Zeng Shushu arrived and fiercely fought with the white-clothed woman. However, his magical power was no match for hers. The moment he was scalded, the white-clothed woman left with Xiaohuan. Xiaohuan's grandfather was very worried about Xiaohuan's safety. Zeng Shushu tried to persuade him to guard Yudou City, assuring him that he, Xiaofan, and Xueqi would go search for her.

Li Xun also arrived in the main hall aggressively, accusing Zeng Shushu and the others of deceiving him. Xiaofan stated that they would find Xiaohuan and return the Xuanhuo Mirror. He asked Li Xun if there was a way to locate the Xuanhuo Mirror. Li Xun replied that they could look for clues when the energies of heaven and earth converged at sunrise, and he would begin casting spells as soon as dawn broke.

Li Xun located the Xuanhuo Mirror to the northwest, and the group immediately set off to find it. Youji told the Ghost King that Biyuan had left a letter, saying she had gone to Yudou with Qin Wuyan. The Ghost King ordered Youji to send Qinglong to protect Biyuan, as Qinglong and Qin Wuyan still had some acquaintance. Qin Wuyan brought Biyuan to Wild Dog's location. Biyuan said she had an impression of this place.

Wuyan lied to Biyuan, telling her he had brought her here before, when she was injured at the Jade Fire Heavenly Ice Lake. Wild Dog was very excited to see Biyuan, and from Biyuan's reactions, he realized she had lost her memory. Qin Wuyan threatened Wild Dog, telling him to be careful with his words. Wild Dog then recounted everything he had heard from Mr. Ghost about the Xuanhuo Mirror to Biyuan.

Biyuan murmured to herself, uttering the names Zhou Xiaohuan and Zhang Xiaofan. Qin Wuyan stated that they were disciples of Qingyun and were their enemies everywhere. Wild Dog knew Qin Wuyan was lying but found it difficult to expose him directly. Later, Wild Dog took the opportunity to quietly tell Biyuan to be wary of Qin Wuyan. Biyuan nodded. The white-clothed woman walked forward with Xiaohuan.

Xiaohuan was clever and sweet-tongued, and the white-clothed woman did not deliberately make things difficult for her. Xiaohuan intentionally delayed their journey, sometimes complaining of hunger, other times of tiredness. The white-clothed woman found her incessant chatter unbearable, so she granted all of Xiaohuan's requests. She asked Xiaohuan to wait where she was while she went to find food nearby.

Because she was worried, she sealed Xiaohuan's acupoints, and unintentionally discovered that Xiaohuan possessed a celestial destiny and had opened her 'heavenly eye'. She then decided to use Xiaohuan for a sacrifice, along with the Xuanhuo Mirror, to heal her severely injured older brother. Xiaohuan sat in place, fiddling with stones with her feet, leaving marks for Zeng Shushu and the others.

Zeng Shushu, Xiaofan, and the others followed the marks left by Xiaohuan, heading northwest, and arrived at the vast desert. In the evening, when the white-clothed woman took Xiaohuan to rest, she roasted sweet potatoes for Xiaohuan. Xiaohuan began to tell the white-clothed woman her stories, and as the woman listened, a smile appeared on her face. At this moment, Biyuan and Qin Wuyan were also gazing at the starry sky.

Qin Wuyan told Biyuan about Qinglong's myriad acts of care towards him during his cultivation practice and his experiences in the Ten Thousand Poisons Sect. After listening, Biyuan was also deeply moved. Xiaofan, who was resting in the same forest, suddenly woke up. He told Zeng Shushu that he seemed to have heard Biyuan's Jin Ling. Zeng Shushu comforted Xiaofan. Ever since entering the desert, Xueqi's expression had been unusual. Xiaofan asked her what was wrong.

Before she could answer, they saw two groups of people fighting ahead. Seeing this, Xueqi recalled her childhood experiences. She rushed forward and, together with Zeng Shushu and the others, rescued those being robbed by desert bandits.

Episode 36 Recap

With the righteous rescue by Xiao Fan, Xue Qi, and their companions, the bandits robbing the merchants fled in all directions. The rescued people invited Xiao Fan and his group into their tent to thank them with tea instead of wine. After Xiao Fan drank the water, he felt dizzy and quickly warned everyone that the water was poisoned. When Xiao Fan, Xue Qi, and the others woke up, they found themselves tied up.

It turned out that the people they rescued were also bandits. The scene they witnessed in the desert was actually a staged act by a group of bandits. Firstly, they coveted the treasures in their hands, and secondly, they wanted to use Xue Qi's blood to sacrifice to Sha Kui. A masked bandit came to the tent where Xiao Fan and the others were held, dragging Xue Qi and Xiao Fan away to sacrifice to Sha Kui.

Along the way, Xue Qi's face was ashen, and she could barely move. Xiao Fan noticed Xue Qi's abnormality but didn't know why. It turned out that when Xue Qi was a child, her mother sold her to an acrobatic troupe. The troupe leader traveled around with the group, performing. When they passed through the sand sea, they encountered bandits. Some people were killed, and the troupe leader abandoned Xue Qi and fled alone.

Xue Qi was taken by the bandits to be sacrificed to Sha Kui. Young Xue Qi was helpless and terrified, only able to scream loudly. At the critical moment, Xue Qi's master arrived and saved her. He took her as his disciple, brought her back to Qing Yun, and taught her martial arts. Shu Shu and Li Xun were still imprisoned in the tent. A young lad came to sell goods.

Shu Shu seized the opportunity to bump into the tent with his body, hoping the young lad would notice something unusual. Fortunately, he saw it, then quietly sneaked into the tent, untied Shu Shu and Li Xun, and the two were saved. Along the way, Xiao Fan tried hard to expel the poison from his body and recover his internal energy. Sha Kui seemed to remember Xue Qi.

Looking at Xue Qi, who was caught in the sandstorm, it told her that no one would save her this time. Xue Qi fell into despair. But at this moment, Xiao Fan's magical power recovered. He overcame the raging storm, reached Xue Qi's side, saved her, and led her to escape Sha Kui's control. As soon as Xiao Fan and Xue Qi came out, they encountered the young lad, Li Xun, and Shu Shu.

The young lad introduced himself to Xiao Fan as Shi Tou. He was a demon hunter, and his code of conduct was to slay demons and evil spirits and uphold justice. He took out his only remaining biscuit and gave it to Xiao Fan. Xiao Fan, out of consideration for Xue Qi, offered the biscuit to her.

Li Xun was unbearably hungry, and he happened to have an egg that Shu Shu had just taken from the bandits, so he wanted to roast and eat it. Xiao Fan stepped forward, intending to stop them. During their dispute, the egg fell to the ground. Shu Shu, who had returned after finding water, rushed to catch it but failed. Miraculously, the egg landed on the ground, grew wings, and flew onto Xiao Fan's arm.

As Xiao Fan's group walked forward, they saw a man trapped in a sand dune. Xiao Fan rescued him. Learning that his name was Luo Ye and he was also looking for water, Xiao Fan asked him to travel with them. Qin Wu Yan and Bi Yao also arrived in the desert, coming to the place where Xiao Fan and his companions had just stopped. They saw the things they left behind.

Bi Yao asked Qin Wu Yan, since Zhang Xiao Fan and his companions also came to seize the Xuan Huo Jian, why not seize the opportunity to eliminate them? Qin Wu Yan replied that Zhang Xiao Fan and his companions were cunning and unpredictable, especially Zhang Xiao Fan, who once held Bi Yao hostage and caused her injury. Bi Yao was puzzled because she had no recollection of it. Xiao Fan's group found an oasis in the desert – Xiaochi Town. This was also Shi Tou's mother's hometown. They arrived at San Niang's inn and settled down there.

Episode 37 Recap

At the inn, Xiao Fan and Shu Shu discussed their next steps. Shu Shu noticed Xiao Fan's dejection and encouraged him, telling him that their past difficulties were overcome thanks to Xiao Fan's courage and persistence, which allowed them to reach the final step. This time would be no different; they would surely rescue Xiao Huan. Late at night, Xue Qi gazed at the starry sky, lost in her thoughts.

Xiao Fan came out, draped a coat over Xue Qi, and told her the plan to rescue Xiao Huan that he had discussed with Shu Shu. Xue Qi apologized to Xiao Fan, saying that she had misunderstood him and had always thought he lacked responsibility and acted imprudently. However, after this journey, she realized that Xiao Fan was more responsible than Shu Shu, herself, and even all the Qing Yun disciples.

Xiao Fan also thanked Xue Qi for helping him defeat his inner demons during the Seven Meridians Martial Arts Tournament. Xue Qi also opened up, telling him about her story of being abandoned when she was a child. The two gained a deeper understanding of each other. Xue Qi returned to her room to rest. Xiao Fan sat still in his spot when his Blood-devouring Pearl suddenly reacted, making him realize that Bi Yao might be nearby.

In the desert, Bi Yao also stared blankly at her Golden Bell, always vaguely feeling that there was a forgotten story behind it. Bi Yao told Qin Wu Yan that she wanted to meet the Qing Yun disciples to see if they were as sinister and cunning as Qin Wu Yan claimed. Qin Wu Yan tried every means to stop her, so Bi Yao had to promise that she would not act rashly without his permission.

The next day, Xiao Fan woke up Shi Tou, who was sleeping drunkenly on the table. Shi Tou told Xiao Fan that he drank so much because the wine tasted very similar to what his mother brewed.

Shi Tou said that through their time together over the past few days, he could see that Xiao Fan and the other Qing Yun disciples were kind-hearted people, so he revealed his mother's secret to Xiao Fan: his mother was not human, but a demon. Xiao Fan said that as long as they didn't do evil, it didn't matter if they were human or demon.

However, Shi Tou's words also reminded Xiao Fan that there might be other demons here, and it was highly possible that these demons had kidnapped Xiao Huan. The three's conversation was overheard by San Niang, who was passing by. She stopped the three of them, preventing them from entering her tavern. Unexpectedly, Xiao Qi greeted Xiao Fan through the window, calling him benefactor.

San Niang no longer insisted on blocking them and told Xiao Fan why Xiao Qi was locked in her wine cellar. A month ago, Xiao Qi stayed at her inn, ate and drank for free for a month, and then tried to escape. She discovered him and locked him in the wine cellar, making him work for her to pay off his debt.

Li Xun arrived and accused Xiao Qi of colluding with Liu Wei to steal the Mysterious Fire Mirror. Xiao Qi stated that he had already separated from Liu Wei and did not know the whereabouts of the Mysterious Fire Mirror. Li Xun did not believe Xiao Qi's explanation at all, so Xiao Qi had to flee. Li Xun chased after him alone in a hurry.

Xiao Fan and Xue Qi deduced that the Mysterious Fire Mirror and Xiao Huan were likely in Xiaochi Town, so they decided to split up and search for Xiao Huan in Xiaochi Town. Xiao Fan accompanied Shi Tou, searching for Xiao Huan under the guise of looking for Shi Tou's mother. By chance, the two came to a courtyard full of butterfly flowers.

Shi Tou wanted to ask the old man in the courtyard about his mother, but the old man did not intend to tell Shi Tou and turned to go back into the house. Shi Tou kept knocking on the door. Bi Yao saw this from a distance, thinking Shi Tou was bullying the old man, so she secretly cast a spell, knocking Shi Tou to the ground from afar. Xiao Fan vaguely caught a glimpse of Bi Yao's figure.

The old man came out after hearing the commotion outside. Shi Tou told him that his mother's name was A Ling. The old man's face changed drastically upon hearing A Ling's name, but he still falsely claimed that he did not know this person.

Xiao Fan told Shi Tou that the old man might have his reasons for not wanting to speak, and suggested that Shi Tou try a different approach and ask others in the town, while he himself needed to find someone, the Bi Yao whom he was constantly thinking about. Xue Qi found Li Xun and persuaded him to give up the dispute and work together with everyone to find the Mysterious Fire Mirror and Xiao Fan.

Passersby kept pointing and whispering about Xue Qi and Li Xun. Li Xun believed that these people might be guilty consciences, and the Mysterious Fire Mirror was very likely in the town. At this time, San Niang rushed to the courtyard where Shi Tou had just been and found the old man.

San Niang knew that Shi Tou was Sister Jiang's son, but their Fox Clan had been living in seclusion here for a hundred years and did not want these young people to find out. San Niang said that fortunately, she had moved Xiao Huan from the wine cellar to him.

The old man asked San Niang to find a way to move Xiao Huan elsewhere before dark, and at the same time, to find a way to deal with the Qing Yun disciples. Bi Yao questioned Qin Wu Yan why, as a disciple of the Ten Thousand Poison Sect, he was working for the Ghost King Sect. Qin Wu Yan told her his experiences, which moved Bi Yao somewhat.

Qin Wu Yan said that he had something to do and would be back shortly. San Niang pulled Xiao Huan, walking quickly through the desert, intending to take Xiao Huan to heal her eldest brother. Xiao Huan argued, but San Niang knocked Xiao Huan unconscious and left with her, but Xiao Huan's handkerchief fell to the ground. Shu Shu and Luo Ye had been searching in the desert.

Upon seeing Xiao Huan's handkerchief, Shu Shu told Luo Ye to go back and notify everyone, while he himself rushed deeper into the desert to find Xiao Huan. Unexpectedly, he encountered a group of bandits. Shu Shu was outnumbered and almost got killed. San Niang appeared and saved Shu Shu. Shu Shu was overjoyed to see Xiao Huan behind San Niang, but in an instant, San Niang used a bit of magic, and Shu Shu fell unconscious to the ground.

Xiao Fan was determined to help Shi Tou find news of his mother, so he returned to the old man's residence late at night, only to find the old man assassinated and dead in the courtyard. Bi Yao and Xiao Fan, who arrived shortly after, began to fight fiercely. A masked Qin Wu Yan took Bi Yao away. Shi Tou also arrived, telling Xiao Fan that the villagers were rushing there. The villagers mistakenly thought Xiao Fan was the murderer and surrounded Xiao Fan and Shi Tou, not allowing them to leave.

Episode 38 Recap

The villagers surrounded Xiaofan and Shitou. Shitou didn't want Xiaofan to be framed, so he spoke up to defend him. During the pushing and shoving, a villager's stick hit Shitou's head. Sanniang was worried, after all, Shitou was Sister Jiang's son. Xiaofan promised to find the real murderer within three days. Sanniang agreed, stating that she would temporarily detain Shitou. At Sanniang's inn, after Li Xun heard about the incident, he adamantly insisted that Xiaofan was the murderer.

Xueqi vouched for Xiaofan. Sanniang said she also believed Xiaofan was not the murderer, but she was certain that the murderer was connected to Xiaofan and his group. She demanded that Xiaofan and his companions leave Xiaochi Town tonight, otherwise, she couldn't be sure what might happen. Xiaofan and Xueqi walked on the road. He told Xueqi that he had seen Biyao in the flower field with Shitou at noon. Last night, he encountered Biyao while chasing a mysterious person.

Li Xun, who was following them, overheard Xiaofan and Xueqi's conversation. He immediately shouted, claiming his speculation was correct, that Xiaofan and Biyao conspired to kill the old village chief. Xiaofan told Li Xun and Xueqi that the village chief was likely killed by the mysterious person accompanying Biyao, and Biyao was not involved. In the desert, Biyao was worried about Xiaofan's injuries. Qin Wuyan told Biyao not to worry, because Zhang Xiaofan had brutally killed the old village chief.

Biyao stated that she didn't think Zhang Xiaofan was a cruel person, because he didn't fight back when she fought him. Qin Wuyan fabricated past events. He told Biyao that Zhang Xiaofan had once used Biyao to sow discord between her and the Ghost King, held Biyao hostage all the way, causing her injury. It was thanks to his continuous pursuit to Dinghai Mountain Villa that he rescued Biyao.

Qin Wuyan also falsely accused Zhang Xiaofan of pushing Biyao off a cliff for his own safety. Biyao tried hard to recall past events but suffered from a splitting headache. She believed Qin Wuyan's words and declared that she would never let Zhang Xiaofan go. Xiaofan, Xueqi, and Li Xun returned to the village chief's house. They found fox fur. Xiaofan suspected that the butterfly flowers filling the courtyard were meant to cover something up.

He and Li Xun dug up the soil and discovered a fox's corpse. Xiaofan felt it was very likely that the corpse before them was the old village chief, and the flowers were planted to conceal their demonic aura. Luo Ye also arrived at the village chief's house and told Xiaofan that Shushu had been captured by someone. When Xiaofan told Luo Ye his speculation, Luo Ye exclaimed that the rumors were true.

It turned out there was a legend here: near the desert was a town where all the residents were demons. Hearing this, Li Xun suggested tying up Sanniang and the others first. Xiaofan and Xueqi believed they should not act rashly. Shushu was resourceful and could protect himself. Furthermore, they had promised Sanniang they would leave, so they might as well depart first and observe the situation. In Black Stone Cave, Xiaohuan and Shushu were imprisoned.

They saw the Six-tailed fox bound by iron chains. The Six-tailed fox was suffering excruciating pain from the ice venom of the Nine Congealing Ice Thorn. Shushu recognized the Six-tailed fox. From Shushu, the Six-tailed fox learned that Xiaofan had also come to Xiaochi Town. Shushu understood the whole story: Sanniang stole the Mystic Fire Mirror and captured Xiaofan as a sacrifice to save the Six-tailed fox. The Six-tailed fox said he would persuade Sanniang not to do it.

The ice venom flared up in the Six-tailed fox's body, and Shushu helped him suppress it. Shushu realized that the key to saving the Six-tailed fox was to resolve his inner demons. Shushu decided to leave with Xiaohuan first and then discuss how to proceed after meeting Xiaofan. But he and Xiaohuan wandered around the cave and couldn't find an exit. Xiaofan, Luo Ye, Xueqi, and others left Xiaochi Town.

They speculated that both Xiaohuan and the Mystic Fire Mirror were connected to Sanniang. Xiaofan decided to secretly infiltrate Xiaochi Town at night to rescue Shitou. Luo Ye, worried about Xiaofan's safety, gave him a bottle of Demon Suppressing Powder, instructing him to sprinkle it into the water of the Full Moon Well, which could temporarily suppress the fox demon's cultivation. Xiaofan picked up the powder and sprinkled it into the well water. Biyao, standing behind Xiaofan, witnessed this scene.

Unaware of Xiaofan's intentions, Biyao accused him of being a despicable scoundrel and fought fiercely with Xiaofan. Xiaofan realized Biyao seemed to have forgotten him. As they fought, the Golden Bell in Biyao's hand reacted. In that instant, a scene of her and Xiaofan experiencing life and death flashed through her mind. Xiaofan used his magic to take away Biyao's Sad Flower. Afterwards, Xiaofan told Xueqi about Biyao's amnesia.

After speaking, Xiaofan realized something was wrong and quickly took Xueqi back to Xiaochi Town. They saw the villagers lying on the ground, suffering excruciating pain. Xiaofan went to Sanniang's inn and saw Sanniang also looking distraught. Sanniang thought Xiaofan had deliberately poisoned the water, so she intended to attack Xiaofan and Xueqi. When Xueqi retaliated, she discovered her cultivation had been suppressed. Just as both sides were injured, Luo Ye walked in, carrying the unconscious Li Xun.

He sighed that the fight between the Qingyun disciples and the fox demon was truly spectacular. It turned out that Luo Ye was the masked bandit leader who had kidnapped Xiaofan and others that day. He colluded with Qin Wuyan to set up a trap for everyone, tied up Xiaofan, Sanniang, and Xueqi, and frantically tried to absorb Sanniang's cultivation. Biyao and Qin Wuyan also arrived at this moment and stopped Luo Ye's actions.

Biyao told Luo Ye and Qin Wuyan to leave first, as she wanted to talk with Zhang Xiaofan alone. Xiaofan looked at Biyao, who was full of hatred towards him, and knew that someone had erased her memory. He told Biyao that it was fine not to remember the past, so she could live happily. Qin Wuyan returned and urged Biyao to kill Xiaofan. Biyao recalled some fragments of her time with Xiaofan again. Biyao hesitated to strike, but Qin Wuyan kept whispering in Biyao's ear. Biyao struck, knocking Xiaofan unconscious.

Episode 39 Recap

Qi Wei came to Black Stone Cave to see Elder Brother Liu Wei, and also brought food for Shu Shu and Xiao Huan. Liu Wei instructed Qi Wei that he had grown up and should start taking on the heavy responsibility of taking care of their clansmen.

Shu Shu and Xiao Huan eventually learned from Qi Wei that Xiao Fan had once saved Qi Wei, so they tried to get close to him, hoping he could lead them out of Black Stone Cave. However, Qi Wei said he couldn't, as Sister-in-law San Wei would be angry. It turned out that San Niang and Liu Wei loved each other, so San Niang was determined to save Liu Wei at all costs.

In Xiaochi Town, San Niang was tied to a pillar by Qin Wuyan. Qin Wuyan absorbed her inner core, making her feel the heart-eating pain, and mocked her for her worthless, desperate efforts for Liu Wei. Bi Yao couldn't stand it and stopped Qin Wuyan. Shi Tou secretly snuck into the room where Xiao Fan and Bi Yao were held, and helped Xiao Fan untie the ropes. However, Luo Ye suddenly arrived, bringing San Niang with him.

Shi Tou quickly hid, only emerging after Luo Ye had left. San Niang told him that the immediate plan was to rush back to the inn and retrieve the antidote, so everyone's cultivation could be restored. She stated that once everything calmed down, she would tell him the full story of his mother's affairs. Shi Tou was very excited; he could finally hear news about his mother. Xiao Fan and Shi Tou split up.

Shi Tou went to look for Shu Shu, while Xiao Fan returned to the inn, where he encountered Bi Yao. Bi Yao stated that the antidote was in her hands, and if Xiao Fan wanted it back, he should fight her. Xiao Fan told her that she actually knew all his friends, such as Lin Jingyu. Bi Yao recalled the time she spent with Jingyu. Outside the town, Bi Yao handed the antidote to Xiao Fan.

She told Xiao Fan that she didn't want to take advantage of his weakness, and now that his cultivation had recovered, they should have a good fight. As Bi Yao was about to make a move, the Acacia Bell at her waist and the Blood-devouring Pearl in Xiao Fan's hand resonated. Her face was full of confusion. Xiao Fan recounted the story of the Blood-devouring Pearl and the Acacia Bell to her.

Fragments of her time with Xiao Fan flashed through Bi Yao's mind, but she still had not recovered her complete memory. Qin Wuyan, escorting Li Xun, also arrived at the room where Xue Qi was held. He fed Bi Yao a poisonous pill, warning that if an antidote wasn't found within seven days, she would die from the poison. Bi Yao and Xiao Fan exchanged blows.

She noticed Xiao Fan was holding back and asked him to use his full strength. Xiao Fan stated that he would not harm her. To avoid drawing swords against Bi Yao, Xiao Fan struck her pressure points, and Bi Yao temporarily fell unconscious. Xiao Fan took her to the place where Qin Wuyan was holding Xue Qi. In front of Bi Yao, Qin Wuyan released Xue Qi.

Qin Wuyan demanded that Xiao Fan and the others bring the Xuanhuo Jian to exchange for Xue Qi's antidote. Xiao Fan and Xue Qi found San Niang, hoping she would cooperate with them to deal with Qin Wuyan. However, San Niang presented a condition: she wanted to ensure that the villagers of Xiaochi Town were not in mortal danger. Only if Xiao Fan accomplished this would she tell him the whereabouts of the Xuanhuo Jian.

Xiao Fan agreed to her terms. Qin Wuyan smugly told Bi Yao his plan: he wanted Xiao Fan and the others to search for the Xuanhuo Jian, and then to deliver it to him, only then would he give Xue Qi the antidote. After listening, Bi Yao only left Qin Wuyan with two words: Shameless. Shi Tou did not find Shu Shu and Xiao Huan.

Xiao Fan analyzed that San Niang might have hidden Shu Shu and Xiao Huan in a cave, and this cave wouldn't be too far from Xiaochi Town. This was because after they arrived, San Niang was absent for a day, only returning at night. It was highly probable that she went to move Xiao Huan and the hiding place of the Xuanhuo Jian.

Xue Qi stood in the Old Village Chief's courtyard, feeling moved as she recalled all that Xiao Fan had done for her. Bi Yao also arrived at the Old Village Chief's courtyard at this moment. Xue Qi accused Bi Yao of repaying kindness with enmity, stating that Xiao Fan had saved her life twice, yet now she was associating with Qin Wuyan, who had framed her.

Bi Yao was confused and demanded that Xue Qi tell her the truth of the matter. Their words clashed, and they started fighting fiercely. Xiao Fan rushed over, stood in front of Bi Yao, and stopped the two. He then struck Bi Yao's pressure points, causing her to temporarily fall unconscious, and took Bi Yao back to their dwelling. Xue Qi was puzzled, and Xiao Fan explained that Bi Yao was kind by nature, but had lost her memory.

After Bi Yao woke up, Xiao Fan made her pancakes. Bi Yao was confused as to why Xiao Fan, after capturing her, was treating her so well with good food and drink. Xiao Fan told her that her father wanted to retrieve the Xuanhuo Jian because he wanted to resurrect a divine beast, and once the divine beast was resurrected, the consequences would be unimaginable. Just then, Shi Tou called Xiao Fan, so Xiao Fan left, telling Bi Yao to think carefully.

Episode 40 Recap

After Shitou and Xiao Fan discussed, Shitou feigned defection to Luo Ye, falsely claiming that the Qing Yun disciples and people from Fen Xiang Valley had an internal conflict, and demanded San Niang hand over the Xuanhuojian. Otherwise, he threatened to kill all the demons in the town, leaving Luo Ye with no demons to absorb power from. Luo Ye believed Shitou's words and returned to Xiao Chi Town with him. They saw Xiao Fan feigning unconsciousness on the ground.

Luo Ye was gloating, but the moment he approached Xiao Fan, Xiao Fan stood up and attacked Luo Ye fiercely. Xue Qi also arrived, holding her sword to Luo Ye's neck, demanding he hand over the villagers' antidote. To save his life, Luo Ye handed over the antidote, and the villagers were saved. Xiao Qi also rushed back to Xiao Chi Town at this time. He told San Niang that Liu Wei Da Ge's condition was not optimistic.

Xiao Fan pressed, asking if the Xuanhuojian was with Liu Wei. San Niang did not deny it. Xiao Fan stated that he knew Liu Wei was gravely injured and that Liu Wei had been kind to him; delaying further would not lead to a way to cure his ice poison. San Niang confessed the whole story to Xiao Fan, begging him to save Liu Wei, because if Liu Wei died, she wouldn't be able to live either.

Xiao Fan comforted San Niang and asked her to take him to see Liu Wei first. San Niang took Xiao Fan and Xue Qi to Black Stone Cave. To ensure Xiao Qi's safety, she asked him to stay at the inn, entrusting Shitou to look after Xiao Qi well. In the desert, San Niang sensed Qin Wuyan was following her, so she used a trick to make him appear.

Xiao Fan and Xue Qi also appeared, and Qin Wuyan fought fiercely with them before fleeing. Xiao Fan pursued relentlessly, demanding Qin Wuyan hand over the antidote, which Qin Wuyan naturally refused. Bi Yao appeared behind the two at some unknown point. She ordered Qin Wuyan to give the antidote to Xiao Fan. Afterwards, Bi Yao asked Xiao Fan to let Qin Wuyan go. Bi Yao then turned and told Qin Wuyan that she couldn't stand his petty tricks.

She wanted Qin Wuyan to return to Huqi Mountain and tell her father that she was the one who drove him away. As for the Xuanhuojian, she would obtain it honorably. Xiao Fan and Xue Qi walked in the desert, with Bi Yao following them closely. Late at night, Xiao Fan saw Bi Yao following alone behind them and walked over, advising her not to take any more risks.

Bi Yao refused to listen, so Xiao Fan sat down and talked about the past with her. He told Bi Yao that when he left Huqi Mountain, Bi Yao told him: "If people don't want to meet, they are like Shen and Shang, never seen together." From that day, he had given up the thought of seeing Bi Yao again.

But meeting again this time, he clearly knew that some people and things, once they appeared in one's life, were hard to forget. Bi Yao said she had forgotten the past. Xiao Fan said maybe that was a good thing for Bi Yao, and asked her to return to Huqi Mountain and not make her father worry anymore.

Li Xun believed Xiao Fan was colluding with the demons in the village, so he embarked alone on the path to find the Xuanhuojian. As he walked in the desert, he met Yan Hong and his other junior disciples who were looking for him. The group aggressively returned to San Niang's inn. Xiao Qi hid behind the counter. Li Xun demanded Shitou reveal San Niang's whereabouts. Shitou refused and urged Xiao Qi to leave quickly.

Xiao Fan and San Niang were about to enter Black Stone Cave when Xiao Qi arrived, followed by Li Xun and others. Li Xun severely injured Xiao Qi, accusing Xiao Fan of helping demons. San Niang, Xue Qi, and Xiao Fan fought fiercely with Li Xun, Yan Hong, and others to protect Xiao Qi. Bi Yao also arrived and subdued Li Xun and the others. San Niang took Xiao Qi into Black Stone Cave. Bi Yao followed closely alone.

When Xiao Fan and Xue Qi went in, Li Xun used his magic to sense that the Xuanhuojian was inside the cave, so he and Yan Hong pursued them into the cave. At this time, inside the cave, Liu Wei's ice poison flared up, causing him unbearable pain. As soon as Bi Yao, Xiao Fan, and Xue Qi entered the cave, they encountered the power surge from Liu Wei's demonization.

They resisted with their magic but were still struck down and fell unconscious on the ground. On the other side, Shushu exhausted all his cultivation, trying to help Liu Wei suppress the ice poison. After Bi Yao woke up, the scene of Xiao Fan sacrificing his life to save her in Bihuo Ice Lake appeared in her mind. She woke up Xiao Fan, and the two went to look for Xue Qi, who had gotten separated from them.

In the narrow passage, the power surge from the demonizing Liu Wei attacked again. Xiao Fan unhesitatingly protected Bi Yao in his arms, shielding her with his own body. Bi Yao used her magic to create a protective barrier around Xiao Fan. San Niang came before Liu Wei. She used her cultivation to help Liu Wei suppress the ice poison. Liu Wei expressed that he was suffering from internal demons, experiencing unbearable pain.

He asked San Niang to kill him to prevent him from harming others. San Niang was unwilling. She secretly vowed that she would definitely cure Liu Wei. She summoned a giant leech to help her.

Episode 41 Recap

Xiao Fan and Bi Yao were walking in the Black Stone Cave when a giant leech appeared. Xiao Fan cast spells to fend off the giant leech's attacks, and Xue Qi, who had been separated from them, also appeared at this moment to protect Xiao Fan. San Niang arrived and stopped the giant leech. Xiao Fan pressed her, asking what had happened.

San Niang explained that there were many lavas in this cave, and Liu Wei believed that these lavas might help to control the ice poison in his body, so he asked her to lock him here. The giant leech also grew in this place. Xiao Fan was puzzled by this, because lava could help Liu Wei dispel cold, but he was still suffering from the ice poison. He asked Bi Yao if the Xuanhuo Jian held another secret.

Bi Yao recalled that there was a curse from the Beast God on the Xuanhuo Jian, and whoever took it would be eroded by inner demons. Xiao Fan looked at Xue Qi, as he too had been corrupted by inner demons, and it was Xue Qi who had helped him overcome it. San Niang led Xiao Fan and Xue Qi to see Liu Wei. Liu Wei was in excruciating pain and begged Xiao Fan to release him.

Bi Yao stated that even if Liu Wei died, it would not solve the problem; the inner demon would use Liu Wei's physical body, and at that time, everyone would be eroded. Yan Hong and Li Xun also entered the Black Stone Cave. Moreover, Yan Hong had sent a message to her martial uncle Shangguan Ce, who also rushed over, leading the disciples of Incense Valley towards the Black Stone Cave. Time was pressing.

Xiao Huan thought of a solution: she possessed the Heavenly Eye and could see the past. Xiao Fan asked Xiao Huan to send him to the past so he could find the location of Liu Wei's inner demon. San Niang stated that Liu Wei's inner demon was in Incense Valley because his mother was imprisoned there.

While Xiao Huan was casting her spell, Bi Yao closely followed Xiao Fan and also arrived in Liu Wei's past: at the time when he was stealing the Xuanhuo Jian in Incense Valley. Bi Yao told Xiao Fan that Liu Wei's mother and her own mother were sisters, making her and Liu Wei cousins.

Her father knew that Liu Wei's mother was suppressed beneath the Xuanhuo Jian, so he made a deal with Liu Wei, asking him to help retrieve the Xuanhuo Jian. Liu Wei was very surprised to see Xiao Fan and Bi Yao. Xiao Fan stated that he saw a glowing jade pendant on Shangguan Ce's waist, which might be the magical artifact to open the barrier outside the Xuanhuo Jian.

Liu Wei then cast an invisibility spell on Xiao Fan and Bi Yao, so the three of them could work together to seize the Xuanhuo Jian. Xue Qi, Xiao Huan, Shu Shu, and others were guarding Liu Wei and the Xuanhuo Jian outside. Shangguan Ce launched continuous attacks, and the group resisted with difficulty. San Niang pleaded with Xiao Huan to send her to the past as well.

Xiao Fan, unable to resist San Niang's earnest pleas, agreed to her request. When San Niang returned to the past, she was immediately captured by Shangguan Ce upon arriving in Incense Valley. Xiao Fan, Bi Yao, and Liu Wei, while invisible, cast spells to rescue San Niang and also took the opportunity to snatch the jade pendant from Shangguan Ce's waist.

Arriving in front of the room where the Xuanhuo Jian was placed, San Niang pleaded earnestly with Liu Wei not to go in and snatch the Xuanhuo Jian. However, Liu Wei's mind was set on saving his mother. Disregarding San Niang's and Xiao Fan's dissuasions, he insisted on entering. He seized the Xuanhuo Jian. Just as the inner demon was about to enter Liu Wei's body, Xiao Fan fought fiercely with him.

Xiao Fan and Bi Yao together prevented the inner demon from corrupting Liu Wei. In the Black Stone Cave, Shu Shu used mechanisms to deal with Shangguan Ce, but it could only delay him for a short time. After resolving Liu Wei's inner demon, Bi Yao, Xiao Fan, and San Niang returned to the Black Stone Cave. San Niang channeled her three hundred years of cultivation into Liu Wei's body, hoping to cure his ice poison.

Shangguan Ce broke through the barrier Xue Qi and others had forged with their spiritual power and fought fiercely with Xue Qi, Xiao Fan, and the others. The fire-elemental monsters attacked relentlessly. Xiao Fan pulled Bi Yao to hide aside. Bi Yao looked at Xiao Fan's figure, and in that instant, all her memories returned. Her memories of fighting difficulties together with Xiao Fan, and laughing together, resurfaced.

The magical artifact that held Bi Yao's memories also shattered, and those sealed memories returned to Bi Yao's mind. Bi Yao called out Xiao Fan's name, just as she had before losing her memory. Xiao Fan looked at Bi Yao with joy, knowing that she remembered everything. Liu Wei's ice poison was cured. San Niang, having lost her cultivation, lay weakly in Liu Wei's arms. She told Liu Wei that she never regretted meeting him.

Liu Wei watched as San Niang closed her eyes, and he was consumed by grief. Little Qi beside them also cried heartbreakingly. Liu Wei, utterly despondent, used his magical power to send Xiao Fan and the others out of the Black Stone Cave. He handed the Xuanhuo Jian to Xiao Fan and chose to leave the world with San Niang.

Episode 42 Recap

Liuwei used his magic to send everyone out of the cave, choosing to leave the world with Sanniang. Everyone was stunned by Liuwei's magic, lying scattered in the desert. Xiao Qi woke up and saw the collapsed Black Stone Cave behind him, knowing that his elder brother and sister-in-law had left him forever. Xiao Qi knelt in the desert in despair. Xiao Fan and the others were also very sad.

Biyao walked forward and held Xiao Fan's hand to comfort him. Xiao Fan looked at Biyao and tightened his grip on her hand. Biyao sat alone in the forest. Xiao Fan made her favorite steamed buns. Biyao recalled every meal he had cooked for her since they met, feeling a sense of warmth. Biyao asked Xiao Fan why, after she lost her memory, he acted like her father and didn't tell her the truth.

Xiao Fan explained that when he learned Biyao had lost her memory, he felt that if forgetting the past could free her from pain, he would rather she not remember it. Biyao resentfully stated that because of her amnesia, she almost mistakenly killed Xiao Fan. Xiao Fan told her that all the beautiful and painful memories were in his heart, and only death could bring relief.

Biyao smiled upon hearing this; she knew Xiao Fan's love for her was equally profound. Biyao told Xiao Fan that they had actually met when they were children, in the cave in Caomiao Village. Xiao Fan recalled Biyao crying while hugging him by the sea, lamenting that he should have realized long ago that the person he met in the cave as a child was Biyao. Biyao leaned on Xiao Fan's shoulder.

The two recalled everything they had experienced together, talking and laughing, enjoying the peaceful passage of time. Xue Qi knew that the Xuanhuojian was with Xiao Fan. She told Xiao Fan that whether to hand the Xuanhuojian over to Li Xun was his decision, but she hoped he would return to Qingyun with her as soon as possible. Xiao Fan said he couldn't go back. He took out the letter his Shiniang had given him.

After reading it, Xue Qi understood the reason why Xiao Fan had been constantly delaying his return to Qingmen. Xue Qi still insisted that Xiao Fan go back, stating that she would explain to the Sect Leader. Xiao Fan said he still had some matters to deal with. Xue Qi asked Xiao Fan if Biyao had regained her memories. Xiao Fan reassured Xue Qi, saying he would not do anything to betray his sect.

That night, Xiao Fan came to the Full Moon Well and saw Biyao, who had been waiting for him. Xiao Fan handed the Xuanhuojian to Biyao, but told her to keep it safe and not give it to her father. Biyao asked Xiao Fan to keep the Xuanhuojian, knowing that their path to being together would be full of difficulties, and asked Xiao Fan to take her away with him.

Xiao Fan told Biyao that he could selfishly let go of the Caomiao Village massacre and the nurturing kindness of his sect, but the resurrection of the Beast God concerned the safety of all living beings in the world. Since the first volume of the Heavenly Book had chosen him, he could not shirk this responsibility. Biyao was also conflicted; she understood Xiao Fan, but she was caught between Xiao Fan and her father, finding it difficult to choose.

Biyao told Xiao Fan that the Full Moon Well could predict future events. If the Full Moon Well showed that they would eventually be together, then could Xiao Fan come to find her after he completed his mission? Biyao turned away fearfully after speaking, afraid of facing a negative answer. However, Xiao Fan saw a scene in the Full Moon Well where people were arguing and fighting fiercely, Biyao died, and he himself was seriously injured. Xiao Fan was stunned.

Biyao walked up to him and asked what had happened. Xiao Fan fearfully hugged Biyao; he was so afraid of losing her. Li Xun found Zeng Shushu and others, demanding they hand over the Xuanhuojian. Shushu and Xiao Huan had no idea that the Xuanhuojian was with Xiao Fan. Xiao Fan told Li Xun that he would give him the Xuanhuojian three days later. Li Xun left furiously with his junior disciples.

Afterward, for everyone's safety, Xiao Fan asked Shushu to take Xiao Huan, Xiao Qi, and the others to leave Xiao Chi Town first. Xiao Qi was sad. He came to the room where Luo Ye was imprisoned, accusing Luo Ye of killing the Village Chief and vowing to kill him. Luo Ye, with his cunning tongue, promised to return the spiritual power to the villagers. The naive Xiao Qi believed him and untied him.

Luo Ye held a knife to Xiao Qi's neck, taking Xiao Qi as a hostage. He brought Xiao Qi to Li Xun, demanding that Li Xun use Xiao Qi to exchange for the Xuanhuojian. Li Xun, who was already unscrupulous in achieving his goals, adopted Luo Ye's suggestion. Xiao Fan told Xue Qi his views on the righteous and demonic factions. Xue Qi thought Xiao Fan's words made sense, but were too unconventional for the sect.

Xiao Fan told Xue Qi that he would cut ties with Biyao because he knew that they had no future together. Luo Ye held Xiao Qi hostage and brought him to see Xiao Fan and Xue Qi. Xiao Fan, whose power had greatly increased, defeated Luo Ye with one move. Li Xun arrived shortly after. Xiao Fan asked him to promise not to harm the villagers after getting the Xuanhuojian. He handed the Xuanhuojian to Li Xun.

Luo Ye intercepted it midway. Biyao arrived and snatched the Xuanhuojian back from Luo Ye. She handed the Xuanhuojian to Xiao Fan. Xiao Fan stated that since the Xuanhuojian had already been obtained by someone from the Ghost King Sect, she could do as she pleased. Biyao looked at Xiao Fan's cold attitude, completely bewildered.

Episode 43 Recap

For the safety of the villagers, Xiao Fan suggested that the villagers of Xiao Chi Town find another peaceful sanctuary to live in seclusion. After bidding farewell to Xiao Qi and the villagers, Shu Shu, worried about Xiao Fan's safety, asked Xiao Fan to return to Yu Du City with him. However, Xiao Fan solemnly stated that he had to return to Qing Yun because he had something important to ask his master.

Shu Shu was shocked and quietly asked Xiao Fan what had happened to him, and why he had become so abnormal since returning from the Full Moon Well. Xiao Fan told him that he would confide in him if the opportunity arose. Shu Shu then urged Xiao Fan to take good care of Xue Qi for him, as he himself had to return to govern Yu Du City, which was in ruins awaiting reconstruction.

At Qing Men, Dao Xuan, Cang Song, and Tian Bu Yi were discussing sect affairs. Recently, many members of the Demonic Sect had gathered at Donghai Liupo Mountain, searching for the divine beast Kui Niu to resurrect the Beast God. Dao Xuan also received news from Xue Qi, learning that she was bringing Xiao Fan back. Following Tian Bu Yi's suggestion, Dao Xuan agreed to let Xue Qi and Xiao Fan head directly to Liupo Mountain to rendezvous with them.

At Da Zhu Peak, Su Ru heard of Dao Xuan's arrangement and expressed her worries to Tian Bu Yi. Tian Bu Yi comforted his wife, mentioning that Xue Qi had praised Xiao Fan's improved martial arts upon her last return. No sooner had he finished speaking than Song Da Ren came up with two junior disciples, pleading with their master to take them to Liupo Mountain.

Tian Bu Yi agreed, believing that bringing these disciples could divert Cang Song's attention and prevent him from fixating on Xiao Fan. Tian Ling'er learned that her father and junior disciples were heading to Liupo Mountain, and she pleaded with Qi Hao to intercede with the sect, as she also wanted to go to Liupo Mountain because she was worried about Xiao Fan's safety. Qi Hao, unable to resist Ling'er's pleas, agreed to her request.

Late at night, Tian Bu Yi quietly came to the ancestral hall to bid farewell to Wan Jian Yi. Wan Jian Yi cautioned him to be careful in all matters. Jing Yu, who unintentionally overheard their conversation, requested permission from Wan Jian Yi to also go to Liupo Mountain. Firstly, he was worried about Xiao Fan being framed by the beastmen, and secondly, he wanted to use the opportunity to investigate the truth behind the beastmen incident.

Wan Jian Yi told him that Tian Bu Yi would take good care of Xiao Fan and advised him to continue his cultivation peacefully and wait for the right moment. Xue Qi noticed that Xiao Fan had been in low spirits throughout their journey. While resting by a mountain stream, Xue Qi voiced her confusion. Xiao Fan said that if two people were destined to part ways sooner or later, it would be better to cut off all thoughts early.

He told Xue Qi that he wanted to return this time because there were too many things he couldn't understand. Xue Qi stated that, in her opinion, Xiao Fan was like a vortex, and anyone who got close to him would be drawn into it. Xiao Fan agreed with Xue Qi, saying perhaps Bi Yao being away from him meant she could live a carefree life in the Ghost King Sect. Xiao Fan then asked about Jing Yu's predicament.

Upon learning the situation, he was greatly shocked. Xiao Fan remarked that when he and Jing Yu parted ways at Dinghai Manor, Jing Yu seemed normal. He worried that the beastmen had already infiltrated the Qing Men. Xiao Fan told Xue Qi that after the Seven Veins Martial Competition, he and Jing Yu had encountered beastmen, and then again on the way to Dinghai Manor.

He believed Jing Yu must have been framed by the beastmen on his way back this time. Xue Qi understood the beastmen's plot: to use the sect leader's hand to eliminate Jing Yu. While they were still in a state of shock, Xue Qi's master sent a long-distance message, urging them to hurry to Liupo Mountain to rendezvous with them. Bi Yao sat alone in the inn, lost in thought.

She recalled Xiao Fan's abnormal behavior after seeing the premonition in the Full Moon Well, and his subsequent cold attitude towards her. Yet, Bi Yao knew Xiao Fan's true feelings for her. She knew that Xiao Fan might have an unavoidable hardship, and she shed tears. Li Xun arrived before Bi Yao with his junior disciples, demanding that she hand over the Xuanhuo Mirror.

Qin Wu Yan, who had been silently following Bi Yao, appeared at this moment and drove away Li Xun and the others. Bi Yao held a knife to Qin Wu Yan's neck. She questioned him why he had tricked her into killing Zhang Xiao Fan.

Qin Wu Yan said that he knew Bi Yao might kill him once she remembered the truth, just as Zhang Xiao Fan and she, despite knowing that cultivators of righteousness and demons could not love each other, still insisted on being together. Bi Yao declared that her fate was not to be gambled with, but to be fought for by herself. She told Qin Wu Yan not to play tricks in front of her.

Qin Wu Yan then informed her that her father had sent a message, instructing them both to immediately head to Liupo Mountain. Xiao Fan and Xue Qi stayed at an inn and encountered Li Xun and Shang Guan Ce. The arrogant Shang Guan Ce got into a verbal dispute with Xue Qi. Yan Hong arrived, stating that Bi Yao and Qin Wu Yan were heading to Liupo Mountain with the Xuanhuo Mirror.

Shang Guan Ce then led his disciples in pursuit. Shu Shu received news from his sect and also planned to rush to Liupo Mountain. Xiao Huan and her grandfather tried to dissuade him. The astute Shu Shu detected from his grandfather's words that his grandfather was very familiar with the Demonic Sect, and wanted to clarify the reasons, but his grandfather refused to reveal anything further.

Qing Long saw Qin Wu Yan's feelings for Bi Yao, but Qin Wu Yan stated that he knew his limits. Bi Yao questioned her father why he had extracted her memories. The Ghost King explained that he did it for her own good. Bi Yao retorted by asking her father if he could forget her mother. The Ghost King said that if he could resurrect her mother, he would do anything.

Bi Yao thought of Xiao Fan and suddenly realized that Xiao Fan's abnormal reaction might be because he saw her fate was short-lived in the Full Moon Well. Bi Yao told her father that her mother had told her she never regretted anything, and so she did not regret either. The Ghost King was touched by Bi Yao's words.

He felt that since he couldn't stop Bi Yao, he might as well recruit Zhang Xiao Fan into the Ghost King Sect. Xue Qi brought Xiao Fan to Liupo Mountain and told him that a war between the righteous and demonic factions could break out at any moment, urging him to be prepared. Xiao Fan asked Xue Qi to go back first, believing that the people from Fenxiang Valley would surely make a move, and he would wait there. Xue Qi understood Xiao Fan's thoughts and did not insist.

Episode 44 Recap

A sad Biyao, holding the Hehuan Bell, was lost in thought. Xiaofan stood alone in the mountains. His Blood-Drinking Pearl reacted, and a yellow bird flew over, leading Xiaofan into the spell formation set up by Li Xun and Yan Hong. Xiaofan fainted. When he woke up, he found himself trapped in Shangguan Ce's spell formation. He sternly denounced Shangguan Ce, saying that as a member of a prestigious righteous sect, his actions were despicable.

Shangguan Ce, enraged, cast a spell on Xiaofan, causing him unbearable pain. Li Xun knew that Xiaofan would never yield, so he devised a plan to use Xiaofan as bait to force Biyao to hand over the Xuanhuo Mirror. Late at night, Biyao was wandering in the mountains. Yedog, knowing she had regained her memory, tried to stop Biyao from going to the righteous sects' base. However, Biyao insisted on going, so Yedog had no choice but to follow.

Xiaofan did not return all night, and Xueqi, worried, decided to go look for him. While chatting with Axiang of Tianyin Temple, Yan Hong furtively tried to slip away. Xueqi noticed something amiss and deliberately called out to her. Yan Hong, without being prompted, blurted out that Xiaofan's disappearance had nothing to do with her. This made Xueqi firmly believe that the Burning Incense Valley was inextricably linked to Xiaofan's disappearance.

She knew that a small yellow bird had always followed Xiaofan, and she discussed with Axiang that as long as they found the yellow bird, they could find Xiaofan. Axiang encountered Biyao while searching for Xiaofan in the mountains. Biyao deduced that Xiaofan was imprisoned by the Burning Incense Valley. She asked Yedog to go back and send a message to the Ghost King, saying that she had been captured by people from the Burning Incense Valley.

This was actually because Biyao knew that the people from Burning Incense Valley were difficult to deal with, and she wanted to ask her father and others for help. Li Xun brought Xiaofan to the mountain. With a blade held to Xiaofan's neck, Biyao, who had been following behind, walked out. She demanded Li Xun release Zhang Xiaofan, stating that she would hand over the Xuanhuo Mirror to them. Xiaofan walked step by step towards Biyao.

Biyao, holding the Xuanhuo Mirror, also walked step by step towards Li Xun and the others. Suddenly, Biyao used her magic to untie the ropes binding Zhang Xiaofan. Shangguan Ce attacked, and Xiaofan was injured while protecting Biyao. Fortunately, the Ghost King, Qinglong, and Youji arrived in time and defeated Shangguan Ce and his group. Biyao looked at the severely injured and unconscious Xiaofan, asking her father to save him. The Ghost King left with Xiaofan.

A little later, Tian Buyi, Cang Song, and Shui Yue also arrived. Shui Yue, based on the traces on the ground, deduced that a fierce battle had just taken place there. Xueqi also arrived shortly after. She told Tian Buyi that Xiaofan was missing and might be in mortal danger. Tian Buyi was very worried. The Ghost King sacrificed his own cultivation to save Xiaofan.

However, with a major war between the righteous and demonic factions imminent, he ordered Qinglong to imprison Xiaofan. Cang Song, Tian Buyi, Shui Yue, and Lu Xueqi, a group of four, arrived at the Burning Incense Valley's encampment. Yan Hong, always arrogant and overbearing, aggressively accused Xiaofan of colluding with the demonic cult. Axiang found the small yellow bird trapped in a spell formation in the backyard of the Burning Incense Valley.

Axiang approached Yan Hong, accusing their Burning Incense Valley of bullying the weak in Yudou with their power, and now retaliating this way after being taught a lesson by Xiaofan was truly against the righteous path. Yan Hong still righteously declared that holding Zhang Xiaofan hostage was not wrong. Shangguan Ce walked out, stopped Yan Hong, and apologized to the Qingmen on her behalf. Cang Song stated that everyone should work together to fight the demonic cult at this time.

Shangguan Ce asked everyone to help heal Li Xun. Axiang and Xueqi worried about Xiaofan, fearing that someone might sow discord and falsely accuse Xiaofan of being deeply involved with the demonic cult. Li Xun was poisoned by the Camphor Wood Poison of the Ten Thousand Poisons Sect. Shangguan Ce, in his urgency, accused Xiaofan of being entangled with the demonic cult.

Tian Buyi, eager to protect his disciple, argued with Shangguan Ce, stating that the truth of right and wrong would be known once Xiaofan returned. The Ghost King once again tried to persuade Xiaofan to join the Ghost King Sect, but Xiaofan still refused. Xueqi explained her long-standing grudge with Li Xun to Shui Yue. Unexpectedly, Shui Yue not only failed to understand but stubbornly insisted that Xiaofan was colluding with the demonic cult. Xueqi knelt down to plead for Xiaofan, explaining that Xiaofan had saved her when she encountered Shākui again.

Episode 45 Recap

Jin Ping'er also arrived at Liu Po Mountain and met up with Qing Long and others. She tried to persuade Zhang Xiaofan to listen to the Ghost King and join the Ghost King Sect. Zhang Xiaofan was unwilling and told her that Lin Jingyu was framed by members of the Ghost King Sect. He declared that he would return to Qing Yun to help Jingyu uncover the truth and clear his name.

The Ghost King took Qin Wuyan's advice and planned to wipe out all Qing Yun factions this time. Bi Yao couldn't bear it and tried to inquire about the details of his plan from Qin Wuyan. Qing Long advised her not to be soft-hearted, and Bi Yao left in a huff. Bi Yao stood alone to the side. Jin Ping'er went to persuade her, telling her that Zhang Xiaofan was currently in good condition.

Bi Yao said that she was worried about something else: if her father's plan succeeded during this battle and they killed Zhang Xiaofan's master, Xiaofan would hate her for the rest of his life. She pleaded with Jin Ping'er to help her with a favor. Ling'er and her senior brothers were busy looking for Zhang Xiaofan. A senior brother worried that Xiaofan was with Bi Yao. The sixth senior brother inadvertently revealed the fact that Xiaofan liked Tian Ling'er.

Ling'er recalled all her past interactions with Xiaofan and realized that what the sixth senior brother said was true, but she still vehemently denied it, repeatedly saying it was impossible, because when she was wholeheartedly focused on being with Qi Hao, Xiaofan even helped her intercede for her father.

As soon as she finished speaking, Tian Buyi walked over, sent Ling'er's two senior brothers away, and quietly told Ling'er that Xiaofan had already let go of his feelings for her when he went down the mountain, so he told Ling'er not to dwell on the past. Ling'er said that she had been too foolish before and would treat Xiaofan well in the future.

Xueqi did not want Xiaofan to stay in the Demonic Sect, as staying there for one more day would bring more danger and make him vulnerable to false accusations from his fellow disciples. She secretly infiltrated the rear of the Demonic Sect. Song Daren and Xueqi's senior sister came to provide support. The three, following the intelligence they gathered, arrived at the tent where Xiaofan was supposedly held, but could not find any trace of Xiaofan.

In fact, Zhang Xiaofan had already been sent out by Jin Ping'er. After Xiaofan bid farewell to Jin Ping'er, he had not traveled far before encountering Qing Long and Qin Wuyan, who were waiting to intercept him halfway. Xiaofan couldn't be bothered to waste words with them and fought fiercely with the two. At a critical moment, Tian Buyi arrived with Tian Ling'er. Tian Buyi fought two against one. Bi Yao rushed to save Xiaofan.

Xiaofan's senior brother intended to attack Bi Yao, but the heavily injured Xiaofan cried out, telling his senior brother not to harm Bi Yao. The Ghost King also arrived at this moment. Tian Buyi and the Ghost King exchanged pleasantries. The Ghost King told Tian Buyi that he had already chosen Zhang Xiaofan to be his son-in-law and that Zhang Xiaofan had promised to return later.

He now asked Tian Buyi to take good care of him for the time being. These words put Zhang Xiaofan in a dangerous situation, and Qin Wuyan also harbored a deep hatred for Xiaofan. Tian Buyi took Xiaofan back for questioning. Ling'er and all the senior brothers interceded for Xiaofan. Tian Buyi said that regarding the matter at Dinghai Manor, he could understand Xiaofan's flexibility in handling things, but why did he protect Bi Yao just now?

Xiaofan stated that Bi Yao had saved him from danger multiple times and was now continuously persuading her father to abandon the conflict between the righteous and demonic factions. Bi Yao had never harmed anyone in her life, and as a disciple of the righteous sect, he could not simply kill her without understanding the reasons.

Tian Buyi was stunned, because Xiaofan's words were exactly the same as what Wan Jianyi had said when explaining his reasons for protecting You Ji years ago. Shangguan Ce brought his disciples to question Xiaofan. Tian Buyi and Ling'er both defended Zhang Xiaofan, leaving Shangguan Ce and the others speechless. Bi Yao questioned her father about his recent words. The Ghost King's implication made Bi Yao realize that her father was employing a divisive scheme.

Qin Wuyan seized the opportunity to express his feelings to Bi Yao and proposed marriage to the Ghost King. Bi Yao was extremely angry at Qin Wuyan's sudden action. The Ghost King told Qin Wuyan that as long as Bi Yao was willing, he would not object, and advised Qin Wuyan to work harder. Shangguan Ce spoke ill of Zhang Xiaofan at great length in front of Cang Song.

Cang Song and the Leader of Tianyin Pavilion advised Shangguan Ce to prioritize the overall situation and jointly confront the Ghost King Sect. Tian Buyi and Shui Yue arrived, and the group discussed methods to deal with the Ghost King Sect, deciding to dispatch many disciples to guard important passes. Ling'er described the situation at Qing Yun to Xiaofan, telling him that Jingyu had learned the true teachings of his martial uncle, and his powers were slowly recovering.

Xiaofan finally felt at ease. Ling'er told Xiaofan to forget the past and go home with them. Xiaofan nodded solemnly. Late at night, Qing Long secretly met Xiao Yicai, instructing him to proceed with the original plan but not to harm Zhang Xiaofan's life. Zhang Xiaofan lay in bed, recalling various events at Qing Yun. Outside his tent, Tian Buyi's concerned greetings could be heard. Xiaofan secretly resolved that he must not implicate his master again.

Suddenly, Xiaofan saw Bi Yao's figure and ran out after it. The person turned around; it was You Ji. She entrusted Zhang Xiaofan to take good care of himself. Zhang Xiaofan said that he would stay away from Bi Yao to protect her life. After saying this, Xiaofan turned and left. In fact, it was Bi Yao, worried about Xiaofan's safety, who had disguised herself as You Ji to remind Xiaofan.

After Xiaofan left, Qin Wuyan, who had been following behind Bi Yao, appeared. He stated that the righteous and demonic factions could not coexist and that he was very curious to see how far Bi Yao and Zhang Xiaofan could go.

Episode 46 Recap

Early the next morning, Zhang Xiaofan went to find his Master Tian Buyi, telling him that the Demon Sect was planning something and might act today. He confessed to his Master that last night, the Demon Sect's Vermilion Bird Saint Envoy You Ji had come to see him, telling him to leave Mount Liubo today. Tian Buyi sighed, remarking that Zhang Xiaofan had matured and grown up.

Afterward, Tian Buyi entrusted Tian Ling'er to take good care of the injured Zhang Xiaofan, and hurriedly left to discuss countermeasures with Cang Song and others. The Kui Niu suddenly appeared, and a large mass of black smoke billowed on the mountain. Xiaofan was restless with worry. Tian Ling'er could not resist Xiaofan's pleas and took Xiaofan out to check the situation. As soon as they exited the tent, they encountered Lu Xueqi and A Xiang.

Xueqi said that she was wrong that day, she shouldn't have left Xiaofan alone in the mountains, giving the people from Incense Valley an opportunity. In the distance, the black smoke grew thicker, and Xiaofan, Xueqi, and their group of four hurried towards it. Tian Buyi and the other righteous sect members engaged You Ji and her group in battle. You Ji and her group suddenly retreated.

Cang Song declared that they should set up a magic formation here to prevent the Demon Sect's evil disciples from plotting a trap. Actually, the Ghost King, Bi Yao, and Qin Wuyan were on a distant mountain, watching Cang Song and the others' actions. Bi Yao's face was full of worry; she was worried about Zhang Xiaofan's safety. Tian Ling'er, Xueqi, and others rushed to provide support, telling Xiaofan to stay obediently to the side.

Qin Wuyan and the Ghost King intensified their magical power. The black smoke dispersed, revealing countless black poisonous insects. Cang Song realized they had fallen into a trap; the formation he had set up earlier, intended to trap the demon sect members, had now trapped everyone. Qing Long and You Ji arrived precisely when everyone was preoccupied, making the situation extremely critical. Zhang Xiaofan appeared.

He fought against ten opponents, using all his power to resist the poisonous insects, and broke Cang Song's formation. Only then could the righteous sect members unleash their magical powers. The Ghost King was furious, believing Zhang Xiaofan had ruined his plans. He increased his magical power, causing the divine beast Kui Niu to appear. Everyone was busy fighting against the demon sect disciples. The spirit beast Huang Niao appeared, temporarily protecting Xiaofan.

Xiaofan activated the power of the Heavenly Book within him and suppressed Kui Niu with the Ten Thousand Destruction Bell. Everyone was shocked by Xiaofan's skill. Shangguan Ce, still on the side, accused Xiaofan, questioning how a Qingyun disciple could use the martial arts of Tianyin Temple. Seeing that Kui Niu had been suppressed by Xiaofan, the Ghost King led the Ghost King Sect members to retreat. Xiaofan, exhausted, fainted on the ground. Tian Buyi took him back to recuperate.

Lying groggily in bed, Xiaofan heard his Master, when everyone was accusing and doubting him, declare firmly to everyone that whether Zhang Xiaofan was a traitor or not, he was his personal disciple, and today, he would not allow anyone to take him away. At Qingyun, before the Sect Leader, the various Peak Lords argued endlessly about how to deal with Zhang Xiaofan.

Cang Song stubbornly believed that Zhang Xiaofan colluded with the Demon Sect and was very likely a spy for Tianyin Temple, insisting on severe punishment without leniency. Tian Buyi listed various factual events since Xiaofan joined the Qingyun Sect: how he had repeatedly saved Zeng Shushu and Lu Xueqi from danger, and when everyone was almost killed by Kui Niu's power, he had used all his strength to save them.

The Sect Leader believed Tian Buyi's words made sense and thought the current plan should be to understand how the Tianyin cultivation method came to be in Zhang Xiaofan's body. Cang Song, still relentless, demanded severe punishment for Zhang Xiaofan. Tian Buyi stated that he understood Zhang Xiaofan's nature very well; things he didn't want to say, he wouldn't say, and everyone's relentless coercion would only drive Xiaofan to his death.

The Sect Leader listened to Tian Buyi's explanation and agreed to leave Zhang Xiaofan to Tian Buyi's discretion. Xiaofan, at Qingyun, endured the pointing and whispering of others. He also knew that his fate this time was dire. He walked to the kitchen and told his Shimu that he wanted to cook for everyone, because he knew such opportunities would be few. His Shimu comforted him, telling him that no matter what, she believed in him.

During dinner, Xiaofan saw his senior disciples with bruised faces and asked what had happened. From bits and pieces of their conversation, he learned that people from Chaoyang Peak had been slandering him, and his senior disciples had fought them to defend him. Tian Buyi, who had been suppressing his anger, suddenly erupted in rage, demanding Xiaofan to explain clearly what had happened.

Xiaofan wanted to explain, but he couldn't, because in his youth, he had promised Pu Zhi that he would not tell anyone about Pu Zhi imparting the cultivation method to him. He could only tell Tian Buyi that he had done nothing wrong. Tian Buyi asked Zhang Xiaofan to promise that he had no connection whatsoever with the Ghost King Sect. Xiaofan declared that as a Qingyun disciple, he was irreconcilably opposed to the Demon Sect. Tian Buyi suddenly said that if that were the case, Xiaofan should go down the mountain, kill Bi Yao, and return with her head to prove his innocence.

Episode 47 Recap

Upon hearing this, Xiaofan was completely stunned. He stared at his master with incredulous eyes. Seeing this, Tian Buyi knew he was reluctant to comply, so he snorted coldly and left. Xiaofan told his senior disciples to eat first, while he went to apologize to his master. Tian Buyi stood alone on the cliff. He sensed footsteps behind him, knowing that Xiaofan had arrived.

Tian Buyi lamented that Xiaofan had grown up, stating that he had known Xiaofan's character for a long time; if Xiaofan didn't want to say something, he definitely wouldn't. However, the situation this time was exceptionally grim, so he demanded Xiaofan tell him how he had acquired the Tianyin Sect's cultivation technique. Xiaofan recalled his promise to Pu Zhi and told his master that he had vowed to that person not to speak of it.

This greatly angered Tian Buyi because Xiaofan's refusal to speak put Dazhufeng and Qingyun in a difficult position. Xiaofan pleaded with his master for forgiveness. Although Tian Buyi was furious, he couldn't bring himself to punish Xiaofan, and so he used his magic and left. That evening, Tian Ling'er found Xiaofan and, after much hesitation, asked him if he had fallen for Bi Yao. Xiaofan remained silent.

Tian Ling'er told Zhang Xiaofan that liking Bi Yao was a betrayal of their sect, and that the people of the Ghost King Sect were all sinister and cunning. Zhang Xiaofan stated that he had already made up his mind not to have any further involvement with the Ghost King Sect, but as for whether Bi Yao's feelings for him were genuine, he knew that better than anyone. Tian Ling'er was very angry upon hearing this.

Xiaofan told her that he only had one life, and as long as it could clear his sect's name, anyone could take it. Xiao Yicai secretly infiltrated the ancestral hall, casting a spell to open the Illusionary Moon Cave, intending to take the Zhuxian Sword. Wan Jianyi suddenly detected the anomaly, appeared abruptly, and Xiao Yicai fled. Upon hearing about the incident at the ancestral hall, the Sect Leader sighed, lamenting that the Demon Sect's people were becoming increasingly lawless.

Cang Song, already displeased with Tian Buyi's protection of Xiaofan, became even more stubborn at this point, insisting that the person who infiltrated the ancestral hall was Zhang Xiaofan, and Xiao Hui's appearance was proof. Tian Buyi stated that Zhang Xiaofan had not stepped out of Dazhufeng last night and accused Cang Song of being excessively harsh and relentlessly pressuring Zhang Xiaofan. Cang Song was adamant about taking Xiaofan to the Discipline Hall.

To protect Xiaofan, Tian Buyi pleaded with the Sect Leader to imprison Zhang Xiaofan in the ancestral hall, alongside Lin Jingyu. The Sect Leader agreed. Lin Jingyu was very happy to see Xiaofan. The two brothers finally had a chance to catch up on each other's recent situations. On the other side, Tian Buyi and Wan Jianyi had a private talk. Both believed that the person who stole the Zhuxian Sword could not possibly be Zhang Xiaofan.

Tian Buyi told Wan Jianyi that he sent Xiaofan here also to protect him. Wan Jianyi stated that the thief would surely make another move, and having Zhang Xiaofan here could also help him protect the Zhuxian Sword. Xiao Yicai relayed the message to the Ghost King, who decided to send Qin Wuyan to Qingyun to steal the Zhuxian Sword. Qin Wuyan bid farewell to Bi Yao, telling her that he was going to Qingyun.

Jin Ping'er, who was with Bi Yao, immediately declared that she would petition the Ghost King to accompany Qin Wuyan to Qingyun. In reality, Jin Ping'er was worried about Lin Jingyu's safety. Qin Wuyan invited Bi Yao and Qing Long to drink together. Qing Long stated that Bi Yao could only avoid being on the opposing side of Zhang Xiaofan if she persuaded him to convert to the Ghost King Sect.

Bi Yao clearly knew that asking Zhang Xiaofan to betray Qingyun would be worse than killing him. Bi Yao was in a dilemma and could only drown her sorrows in alcohol. Qin Wuyan woke up and, after confirming that Qing Long and Bi Yao were deeply asleep from drinking, secretly took the Hehuan Bell from Bi Yao's waist. Jin Ping'er, who happened to be passing by, saw this scene from a distance.

In the ancestral hall, Wan Jianyi recounted the story of the Zhuxian Sword to Lin Jingyu and Zhang Xiaofan. Hundreds of years ago, after the first battle between righteous and evil factions, the relationship between the Demon Sect and Qingyun was very tense. At that time, Qingyun's Sect Leader, who was also his and his senior disciple Dao Xuan's master—Tian Chengzi, intended to pass the Zhuxian Sword and the position of Sect Leader to him.

You Ji from the Ghost King Sect came to steal the Zhuxian Sword and fought fiercely with him. He was injured by You Ji, and at a critical moment, his master appeared with the Zhuxian Sword, preventing You Ji's actions. You Ji then took him back to the Ghost King Sect and took good care of him, and the two secretly developed feelings for each other.

Because Tian Chengzi used the Zhuxian Sword, his lifespan was shortened, and he passed away. Dao Xuan succeeded as Sect Leader, and he himself was sent to the ancestral hall to guard the Zhuxian Sword. Wan Jianyi told Lin Jingyu and Zhang Xiaofan that their presence here was not a punishment, but rather to guard the Zhuxian Sword well. Tian Buyi brought herbal medicine to visit Zhang Xiaofan, instructing him not to act recklessly anymore and to follow his arrangements.

Xiaofan brewed the medicine and brought it for Jingyu to drink. The two brothers had a heart-to-heart talk. Jingyu expressed that he now understood Xiaofan's intentions: they learned cultivation techniques to prevent people across the world from enduring the kind of suffering they had experienced. Xueqi, worried about Xiaofan's safety, came to Dazhufeng. She told Tian Buyi that she was certain the thief was not Xiaofan, as Xiaofan had always been able to adhere to his true self, which was very rare.

Episode 48 Recap

Jin Ping'er and Qin Wuyan arrived at Qingyun. A masked man in black met them. To everyone's surprise, this masked man was Cang Song. Cang Song told them that he would take them to the back mountain tonight, but whether they could retrieve the Zhuxian Sword would depend on their fortune. Qin Wuyan warned Jin Ping'er not to lose her composure when she saw her beloved Lin Jingyu.

Jin Ping'er retorted, asking Qin Wuyan why he took Bi Yao's Hehuan Bell. Qin Wuyan stated that he would try anything that would make Zhang Xiaofan unhappy. Late at night, Qin Wuyan and Jin Ping'er infiltrated the back mountain. Lin Jingyu and Zhang Xiaofan fought fiercely with them. Tian Buyi had already arranged for people to protect the area. Zhang Xiaofan was stunned when he heard the sound of the Hehuan Bell.

Qin Wuyan and Jin Ping'er took the opportunity to escape. Tian Buyi ordered Lin Jingyu to stay with Wan Jianyi to protect the Zhuxian Sword, and told Xiaofan to go with him to chase Qin Wuyan and the others. Tian Buyi and Zhang Xiaofan arrived at the back mountain, where the masked Cang Song fought fiercely with Zhang Xiaofan and Tian Buyi. Tian Buyi was injured.

Qin Wuyan took the opportunity to sow discord between Zhang Xiaofan and his master, claiming that Zhang Xiaofan had deliberately let them go after hearing Bi Yao's Hehuan Bell. Tian Buyi told Qin Wuyan that he believed Zhang Xiaofan would not betray Qingyun. However, after Qin Wuyan, Jin Ping'er, and the masked Cang Song left, Tian Buyi still angrily slapped Zhang Xiaofan and ordered him to kneel in the bamboo forest to reflect.

Before Sect Leader Dao Xuan, Cang Song again falsely accused Zhang Xiaofan, blaming him for deliberately letting Qin Wuyan and the others escape. Tian Buyi vigorously defended Zhang Xiaofan's innocence. Xiao Yicai suddenly entered the hall and told the sect leader that Xue Qi had received news that the Demonic Sect was leading various factions to launch a major attack on Qingyun.

Tian Buyi used the reason of a formidable enemy being at hand and the need to unite against outsiders to ask Dao Xuan not to punish Zhang Xiaofan. He stated that he would keep a close eye on Zhang Xiaofan, and Dao Xuan had no choice but to agree.

After Tian Buyi left, Cang Song once again slandered Dao Xuan, suggesting that he could invite the Tianyin and Fenxiang sects to jointly interrogate Zhang Xiaofan, and that Qingyun would not interfere with the outcome. In fact, Cang Song knew very well that Shangguan Ce of Fenxiang Valley intended to eliminate Zhang Xiaofan, and his move was to use others' hands to get rid of Zhang Xiaofan. Xiaofan knelt in the bamboo forest as heavy rain suddenly fell.

Lu Xueqi came to see Xiaofan but could only helplessly turn and leave. Qin Wuyan and Jin Ping'er reported the situation to the Ghost King, stating that they saw a person with grey hair and a white robe in the ancestral hall. Tian Buyi called that person Senior Brother. The Ghost King seemed pensive, as if he had guessed that this person was Wan Jianyi. Wan Jianyi also knew that this tribulation could not be avoided.

He entrusted Lin Jingyu that if one day he died at the hands of the Demonic Sect, the heavy responsibility of guarding the ancestral hall and the Zhuxian Sword would fall to Lin Jingyu. Qin Wuyan handed the Hehuan Bell to Bi Yao. Bi Yao accepted it calmly. Qin Wuyan was surprised; he thought Bi Yao would slap him.

Bi Yao told Qin Wuyan that it didn't matter even if Zhang Xiaofan wasn't willing to change for her, because for her, Zhang Xiaofan was her life. Bi Yao walked up the mountain, holding an umbrella. She found Zhang Xiaofan kneeling in the rain. Zhang Xiaofan told Bi Yao she shouldn't have come, it was too dangerous. Bi Yao said she knew she shouldn't have come, but since he was there, she couldn't not come.

Afterwards, Bi Yao put down her umbrella and knelt in the rain with Zhang Xiaofan. Zhang Xiaofan held Bi Yao's hand, and they knelt like that all night. It wasn't until dawn, when the rain stopped, that Zhang Xiaofan told Bi Yao that ever since he joined Qingyun, he had always acted with integrity and a clear conscience, yet everyone suspected him of colluding with the Demonic Sect and rescuing the Fox Demon.

After listening, Bi Yao said that she would leave the Ghost King Sect and asked Zhang Xiaofan to take her away. Zhang Xiaofan once again rejected Bi Yao's proposal, because Qingyun and his master's sect had raised him and given him everything. He told Bi Yao that if he could abandon everything, he would also want to take her away. Bi Yao couldn't bear to see Xiaofan suffer such injustice and insisted on taking him away.

Xue Qi arrived at this moment and told Bi Yao that doing so would only cause Xiaofan to be misunderstood by the people of Qingyun. Pu Hong, the sect leader of Tianyin Pavilion, arrived at Qingyun and met Dao Xuan and Cang Song.

He told them that Xiaofan's Tianyin cultivation method was taught to him by his Senior Brother Pu Zhi on his deathbed, but Xiaofan had to keep his promise, so Xiaofan had not mentioned a single word about it. He firmly believed that Xiaofan had not colluded with the Demonic Sect. Seeing Pu Hong exonerate Xiaofan, Cang Song then stated that Xiaofan was inextricably linked to the disappearance of the Xuanhuo Jian.

Pu Hong told them that he believed Xiaofan had no connection with the theft of the Xuanhuo Jian. Xiao Yicai suddenly came to see Dao Xuan, stating that Bi Yao intended to take Zhang Xiaofan away. Xue Qi told Bi Yao that in this time of Demonic Sect invasion and danger, Xiaofan would stay in Qingyun to face difficulties with them.

Bi Yao no longer wanted to engage in a pointless argument with Xue Qi and immediately wanted to take Xiaofan away. Xue Qi intervened to stop her, and the two began to fight fiercely. Cang Song arrived, a golden light suddenly appeared, and Zhang Xiaofan disappeared. In fact, Zhang Xiaofan was taken away by Pu Hong's spell. After Zhang Xiaofan woke up, he immediately wanted to return to Qingyun without explanation.

Pu Hong ordered A Xiang to bring Zhang Xiaofan to him. A Xiang had no choice but to use a spell to make Xiaofan fall into a coma and took him away. At Qingyun, Cang Song again advocated for severe punishment for Zhang Xiaofan. Xue Qi stated that Zhang Xiaofan was not taken away by the Demonic Sect, because that golden light was not a Demonic Sect technique.

Tian Buyi, upon learning that Xiaofan was to be subjected to a three-sect joint interrogation, immediately stated that he would definitely appear on time, because he was Zhang Xiaofan's master. Tian Buyi and Su Ru were worried about Xiaofan. Su Ru suggested bringing Xiaofan back to prove his innocence. Tian Buyi knew that Cang Song was relentlessly pressing on, wanting to put Xiaofan to death. He told Su Ru that he hoped Xiaofan would never return to Qingyun again, so that his life could be saved.

Episode 49 Recap

Zhang Xiaofan woke up and saw A Xiang guarding his bedside. He complained that A Xiang should not have brought him to Tianyin Pavilion. A Xiang explained that he saw Zhang Xiaofan about to face a joint trial by the three sects and suffer injustice, which is why he took this action. Zhang Xiaofan wanted to return to Qingyun. A Xiang asked him to meet Puhong, the sect leader of Tianyin Pavilion, before leaving.

Xiaofan met Puhong and expressed his gratitude, because Master Pukong of Tianyin Pavilion had damaged his own cultivation to heal him. However, to Xiaofan's surprise, Puhong stopped him, telling Zhang Xiaofan that he had shown kindness to Tianyin Pavilion, and knelt before him. Puhong thanked Zhang Xiaofan for keeping Puzhi's secret, stating that Pukong had already informed him about the incident at Liubo Mountain.

He knew that Zhang Xiaofan was now in a difficult situation at Qingyun, so he would explain the situation to Sect Leader Daoxuan later to clear Zhang Xiaofan's name. But before that, he wanted to tell Zhang Xiaofan the truth about what happened back then. It turned out that Zhang Xiaofan's experience back then was not accidental but deliberately orchestrated by Puzhi.

After the Grass Temple Village massacre, Puzhi returned to Tianyin Pavilion, where he repented daily in the hall for seven full years. Puhong told Zhang Xiaofan that Puzhi was the most talented disciple of Tianyin Pavilion in several centuries. He traveled through famous mountains and rivers and accidentally obtained the Blood-devouring Pearl.

It was Pukong who recognized the Blood-devouring Pearl, and only then did he realize that Zhang Xiaofan, who possessed it, was the boy to whom Puzhi had taught cultivation methods back then. After Puzhi obtained the Blood-devouring Pearl, he suppressed it with Tianyin Pavilion's magical artifact. Puzhi, who was determined to comprehend the secret of immortality, also came to Qingyun, hoping that someone could practice both Qingyun and Tianyin cultivation methods simultaneously, but he was politely refused by Daoxuan.

On his way down the mountain, Puzhi was ambushed by a black-clad masked man, severely wounded, and after miraculously escaping, he hid in a temple in Grass Temple Village. Because Puzhi always carried the Blood-devouring Pearl with him, it inevitably had an impact on him, amplifying his resentment. Coupled with his chaotic state of mind after being injured, he had to temporarily reside in the temple to recuperate.

However, unexpectedly, that night, the black-clad masked man pursued him again and placed a highly poisonous item, the Seven-tailed Centipede, on Lin Jingyu. Puzhi, unwilling for Lin Jingyu to die, healed him. The mysterious black-clad man took advantage of Puzhi's depleted cultivation to attack Puzhi again, attempting to seize the Blood-devouring Pearl. Puzhi fought with all his might and severely wounded the mysterious black-clad man.

Subsequently, Puzhi knew he was doomed to die, but his wish of "all methods returning to one" had not yet been fulfilled. So, he passed on his lifelong cultivation to Zhang Xiaofan, hoping that Zhang Xiaofan could join Qingyun, practice the cultivation methods of both sects, and at the same time, he gave the Blood-devouring Pearl to Zhang Xiaofan. Influenced by his inner demon, Puzhi feared that Zhang Xiaofan would not be able to successfully join the Qingyun sect.

Puzhi, controlled by evil energy, massacred everyone in Grass Temple Village, so that the people of Qingyun would surely take Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu in as disciples because they were orphans. Upon hearing this, Zhang Xiaofan felt as if struck by a bolt from the blue. Tian Buyi inquired about the situation from Lin Jingyu, thus deducing that Zhang Xiaofan's Tianyin cultivation method was learned before he entered Qingyun.

He learned that on the day before Grass Temple Village suffered its devastation, Puzhi of Tianyin Pavilion had visited Qingyun. He must have passed through Grass Temple Village on his way down the mountain. He asked Jingyu to recall if he had seen any suspicious strangers in the village back then. Jingyu recalled meeting Puzhi with Xiaofan in the temple and gave Tian Buyi an affirmative answer.

Xiaofan could not accept the truth at once, and the power of the Blood-devouring Pearl also manifested itself at this moment. The inner demon took the opportunity to enter Xiaofan's body. Puhong used his own spiritual power to help Xiaofan suppress the inner demon, and Xiaofan fell unconscious. The awakened Xiaofan sat blankly on the stone steps. He was very confused; the truth from decades ago and his recent experiences left him greatly perplexed.

He walked to the heart lamp left by Puzhi, wanting to put an end to the past. Zhang Xiaofan entered the heart lamp, and in his illusion, he arrived at Grass Temple Village and saw Puzhi. At this moment, Biyao's Huanhuan Bell began to ring repeatedly. Biyao, worried about Xiaofan's safety, started to call out loudly to Xiaofan, telling him not to be afraid and that she would stay by his side.

Xiaofan heard Biyao's voice, and with Biyao's encouragement, Xiaofan overcame his inner demon. Zhang Xiaofan consulted Puhong, wanting to know who had attacked Master Puzhi back then. At this moment, Tian Buyi also learned about the events from Lin Jingyu. He discussed with Wan Jianyi, believing that the person who attacked Puzhi back then was from Qingyun, because only someone from Qingyun would know Puzhi's whereabouts, and Xiaofan had been ambushed twice by a black-clad masked man after joining Qingyun.

Puhong told Zhang Xiaofan that the person who attacked Puzhi that night used the Heaven and Earth Profound Thunder cultivation method. Zhang Xiaofan thought deeply and exclaimed that it was bad news, because besides Lu Xueqi, Cang Song also used this cultivation method. Tian Buyi also recounted to Wan Jianyi how everyone at Liubo Mountain had been trapped by Cang Song's formation, feeling deeply suspicious. The traitor was about to be revealed.

Episode 50 Recap

Zhang Xiaofan believed that the mole in Qingyun Sect must be in a high position, lamenting that things were not good, and immediately wanted to leave. Puhong tried to stop Xiaofan, reminding him that he would face a joint trial by the three sects upon his return, and suggested that he write a letter to his master explaining the situation.

Xiaofan stated that his master had raised him, and now the mole could endanger his master at any time, so he had to rush back. Puhong no longer objected. All the disciples of Tianyin Pavilion knelt before the tent, thanking Zhang Xiaofan. Zhang Xiaofan returned the gesture, then hurried back to Qingyun. Tian Buyi and Wan Jianyi sat together discussing the mole. Tian Buyi spoke of his strange encounter in Liubo Mountain, feeling deeply suspicious.

He believed that Shuiyue, who was present, could certainly not be a mole for the Demonic Sect. Wan Jianyi thought Cangsong couldn't be a mole either, recalling that back then, when he almost made a big mistake, only Tian Buyi and Cangsong stood up to speak for him. Tian Buyi also recalled the events of that year. He told Wan Jianyi that what he feared most now was a repeat of that tragedy.

The mole lurking in Qingyun—the black-clad masked man—went to see the Ghost King. The Ghost King said that after he unified the Righteous and Demonic Factions, he would surely give him what he deserved. However, the black-clad masked man stated that he had helped the Ghost King with so many things not because he wanted any reward from him.

The Ghost King was very surprised, because back then the black-clad masked man had the opportunity to leave Qingyun anonymously and return to the Blood-refining Faction, but he didn't do so. Instead, he stayed in Qingyun, secretly helping the Ghost King Sect. The Ghost King said he felt the reason might be related to that person. Late at night, Jingyu secretly came to Cangsong's room.

He recalled his conversation with Tian Buyi: when Puzhi visited Qingyun, besides the sect leader, only Shuiyue and Cangsong were present, so only those two knew Puzhi's whereabouts. Lin Jingyu's intuition had been telling him that his master Cangsong might very well be the mole, but he refused to believe it. He cast a spell on the magic artifact on Cangsong's desk and saw the totem of the Blood-refining Faction. Lin Jingyu was stunned.

The black-clad masked man suddenly appeared, knocked Jingyu unconscious, and then removed his mask. It turned out that this mysterious black-clad masked man was Cangsong. Cangsong transferred spiritual power to Lin Jingyu. After Lin Jingyu woke up, Cangsong openly admitted to him that he was the mole. Lin Jingyu could not accept this fact and loudly questioned his master why he would do such a thing. Cangsong led him to Illusion Moon Cave.

In front of the Zhuxian Sword, Cangsong told Lin Jingyu his story: he was originally an ordinary disciple of the Blood-refining Faction, who infiltrated Qingyun to steal the Zhuxian Sword. During that war between the Righteous and Demonic Factions, the Demonic Sect was damaged, and the Blood-refining Faction also never recovered.

He could have used his position as a sect leader to eliminate the remnants of the Blood-refining Faction, and then no one in the world would know his true identity. His master Tianchengzi, who was also Daoxuan's master, brought out the Zhuxian Sword. His temperament changed drastically, and he began to kill disciples within the sect. The disciples had no choice but to imprison Tianchengzi. However, Tianchengzi's spiritual power was profound, and imprisonment was futile.

A senior martial brother had no choice but to risk universal condemnation and kill Tianchengzi. Afterward, Daoxuan, in order to contend for the position of sect leader, killed this senior martial brother, accusing him of patricide. Daoxuan's actions made Cangsong feel ashamed. Lin Jingyu told his master that this could not be a reason for him to betray Qingyun. Jingyu pressed for the whereabouts of that senior martial brother from back then.

He guessed that the senior martial brother was Wan Jianyi. He tried hard to persuade his master, hoping he could turn back. But Cangsong stated that the Ghost King Sect controlled all the informants of the Blood-refining Faction, and he had no choice but to obey the Ghost King. Cangsong told Jingyu that he was the one who placed the centipede on him back then, but the one who massacred Caomiao Village was not him, but Puzhi of Tianyin Pavilion.

Jingyu was in immense pain. The hatred for his family's murder, the betrayal of his trust in his master, and the collapse of his beliefs almost overwhelmed him. Yet, he still firmly told his master that he would not betray Qingyun. Cangsong originally intended to eliminate Jingyu, but considering their master-disciple relationship, he ultimately couldn't bring himself to do it. He told Jingyu to stay there for a night and think it over carefully.

Biyao learned from Youji that all the Demonic Sect factions had gathered, and a war between the Righteous and Demonic Factions was imminent. She became increasingly worried about Zhang Xiaofan's safety. The sect leader of the Ten Thousand Poison Sect came to the Ghost King Sect and met with the Ghost King. Although the two factions were outwardly friendly but inwardly at odds, they still felt that this cooperation was to jointly deal with Qingyun.

Zhang Xiaofan returned to Qingyun, and the joint trial by the three sects began. Daoxuan promised the people from Incense Valley and Tianyin Pavilion that Qingyun would absolutely not show favoritism or shield Zhang Xiaofan. Daoxuan pressed Zhang Xiaofan, asking about the incident in Liubo Mountain where someone accused Zhang Xiaofan of using Tianyin martial arts to save everyone. Zhang Xiaofan admitted that the Tianyin martial arts he used this time were indeed a secret not taught outside Tianyin Pavilion.

Daoxuan continued his interrogation, asking Zhang Xiaofan to explain the origin of his magic artifact. Zhang Xiaofan spoke frankly, admitting it was the Blood-Devouring Bead of the Demonic Sect's Black Heart Elder. Everyone was shocked to hear this. Daoxuan became furious, and the atmosphere grew very tense.

Episode 51 Recap

Dao Xuan pressed Xiao Fan, asking where he obtained the item. Xiao Fan recalled his promise to Pu Zhi and lied, claiming the Blood-Devouring Bead was discovered by him and his senior sister Tian Ling'er while playing in the back mountains in his youth, and that it had fought with a black rod in the Emerald Water Pool, eventually merging with it.

But Dao Xuan pointed out a flaw in Xiao Fan's story; he knew Xiao Fan had been carrying the Blood-Devouring Bead long before that. Xiao Fan fell silent. His master Tian Bu Yi, frustrated by his lack of candor, sternly demanded Xiao Fan tell the truth. Pu Kong advised him to discuss matters calmly and not to get angry.

Dao Xuan stated that people from Fenxiang Valley accused Xiao Fan of handing the Xuanhuo Mirror to the Ghost King's daughter, and demanded Xiao Fan explain this matter. Lu Xue Qi, who was standing by, stepped forward and told Sect Leader Dao Xuan that this was absolutely not true. She explained that in Xiaochi Town, Zhang Xiao Fan had already returned the Xuanhuo Mirror to Li Xun.

It was Li Xun who colluded with the horse bandits and indiscriminately killed innocents, which ultimately led to Bi Yao seizing the Xuanhuo Mirror. Xue Qi stated that she personally witnessed Zhang Xiao Fan fighting desperately against the remnants of the Demon Cult, and she was willing to vouch for Xiao Fan's innocence with her own life. She believed Xiao Fan had not colluded with the Demon Cult and was certainly not a spy for them.

At this time, Tian Ling'er and Song Da Ren also stepped forward, both expressing their willingness to vouch for Zhang Xiao Fan's innocence with their lives. Cang Song reprimanded everyone, telling them to step back. Meanwhile, Lin Jing Yu, who had been imprisoned in a cave by Cang Song, used his magic power to break the barrier and arrived in the great hall.

He declared that he was willing to vouch for Zhang Xiao Fan's innocence with his life, his voice powerful and resonant, echoing through the spacious hall. Zhang Xiao Fan was overjoyed to see Jing Yu, his brother who had shared life and death with him. Cang Song, upon seeing Lin Jing Yu, was utterly stunned. He knew his secret could no longer be kept. Lin Jing Yu handed Dao Xuan the box he had found in Cang Song's room.

He told Dao Xuan that there indeed was a spy for the Demon Cult, but it was not Xiao Fan. He explained that when Master Pu Zhi was attacked back then, the assailant used the Seven-tailed Centipede, which was reared in that very box. Dao Xuan was shocked upon hearing this. Lin Jing Yu affirmed that this matter was absolutely true and that Uncle Wang Er could be summoned as a witness.

He stated that when Caomiao Village was massacred, Uncle Wang Er was the only survivor besides Xiao Fan and Jing Yu. At this moment, Uncle Wang Er's mind was unclear; he was trembling, muttering about ghosts, and in great panic. Dao Xuan instructed a disciple to take Uncle Wang Er away and care for him properly.

Pu Kong stepped forward and calmly recounted the truth of the events from that year, stating that the massacre of Caomiao Village was committed by his junior brother Pu Zhi, and that Zhang Xiao Fan's Tianyin (Heavenly Sound) cultivation method was also imparted to him by Pu Zhi. Jing Yu was utterly shocked upon learning the truth and cried out for revenge. Zhang Xiao Fan, standing beside him, held him and tried to comfort him.

Tian Bu Yi asked Xiao Fan if Pu Zhi had asked him to conceal the truth. Xiao Fan answered truthfully, stating that he had always been confused about who had taken the opportunity to attack Master Pu Zhi at that time. He said that person used the Divine Sword Yu Lei True Art, and only then did the village destruction occur. Shui Yue, Xue Qi, and others were stunned, as the truth was about to be revealed.

Cang Song knew he had been exposed. He took the opportunity to unleash the poison of the Seven-tailed Centipede onto Dao Xuan. Dao Xuan felt himself poisoned and quickly sealed his own acupoints. Cang Song, who was behind him, feigned concern and stepped forward. Taking advantage of Dao Xuan's unguarded state, he pulled out a dagger and stabbed Dao Xuan in the waist. Shui Yue, Tian Bu Yi, and others rushed forward to protect Dao Xuan.

Dao Xuan used his cultivation to force the dagger out, but he was severely wounded. Cang Song, unable to withstand the crowd, fell down in the great hall. He openly admitted that he was indeed plotting against Dao Xuan. He stated that for over a hundred years, he had been feeling injustice for Wan Jian Yi.

He recounted that back then, when the Demon Cult launched a massive invasion, it was Wan Jian Yi who turned the tide, putting all his effort into protecting everyone and even teaching his cultivation to everyone to help them improve their powers. However, Dao Xuan had seized the position of sect leader from his senior brother Wan Jian Yi.

Dao Xuan asked Cang Song to step forward, saying he wanted to have a decisive battle with him to prove his capability for the sect leader position. Cang Song stated that he knew his power was inferior to Dao Xuan's. But, he added, in this world, there was always someone who could deal with him. No sooner had he spoken than the alarm bell rang.

A Qingyun disciple came into the great hall and informed everyone that the Demon Cult and others had launched a full-scale attack. Cang Song fled. Tian Bu Yi understood that Cang Song had always been responsible for Qingyun's defenses. At this moment, Qingyun's barrier must have been breached. Upon hearing this, Xiao Yi Cai also prepared to coordinate from inside with the Demon Cult outside.

Outside Qingyun, the Ghost King instructed Bi Yao and You Ji to retrieve the Zhuxian Sword together. Inside Qingyun, Lu Xue Qi fought with all her might against the sect leader of Wandu (Ten Thousand Poisons) Sect, Qin Wu Yan, and others. Shui Yue and others tried to heal Dao Xuan, but alas, the Seven-tailed Centipede was highly venomous, and Shui Yue and the others were also affected by the poison.

Tian Bu Yi, needing to take command at Tongtian Peak, handed the Blood-Devouring Bead to Xiao Fan, instructing him to defend Qingyun. Xiao Fan received the order and engaged in a fierce battle with the people of Lianxue Hall. Although Xiao Fan's magic power had increased, he was outnumbered. At this critical moment, his master arrived, telling him to go back with Jing Yu and absolutely defend the Zhuxian Sword.

At the entrance of Qingyun, Jin Ping'er led the people of Hehuan (Joyful Union) Sect and met Jing Yu, who was waiting outside. Jing Yu stated that this encounter made them enemies, not friends. However, out of consideration for their past camaraderie in Yudou, he offered her three moves (a handicap). Upon hearing this, Jin Ping'er turned around with the Hehuan Sect members and left. She did not want to draw swords against the person she loved.

Episode 52 Recap

The Demon Cult launched a large-scale invasion. Wan Jianyi, burdened with the heavy responsibility of guarding the Ancestral Temple and the Zhuxian Sword, still calmly swept the floor. Cang Song arrived. Wan Jianyi said that he would let Cang Song leave out of their past friendship. Cang Song called him "senior brother" and then violently attacked Wan Jianyi, as his goal was the Zhuxian Sword. You Ji arrived.

She asked Wan Jianyi if she gave him another chance, would he be willing to go with her. Wan Jianyi said that he had heard the story of Bi Yao and Xiao Fan from Jing Yu. Bi Yao wanted Xiao Fan to leave with her and wander the world, but Xiao Fan told Bi Yao that Qingyun was his home. Just like Xiao Fan, ever since Qingyun took him in, he had considered Qingyun his home.

You Ji told Wan Jianyi that he had forgotten that on the other side of the pugilistic world, there was someone who, year after year, watched the flowers bloom and fade, just to uphold the promise that he would return. Wan Jianyi said "I'm sorry" to You Ji. You Ji understood and began to attack, and Wan Jianyi had no choice but to defend.

Cang Song took the opportunity to enter the Ancestral Temple and met Jing Yu, who was waiting there. Jing Yu told his master that the Zhuxian Sword was not here, and that in his heart, Qingyun would never perish. Cang Song drew his sword, stating that he wanted to see Jing Yu's current power. Jing Yu said "I'm sorry" to his master.

The master and disciple drew their swords against each other, and after just a few moves, both almost simultaneously held their swords to each other's necks. In front of the Ancestral Temple, before the Illusion Moon Cave, Zhang Xiao Fan stood. He heard familiar footsteps and the sound of the Hehuan Bell, knowing that Bi Yao had arrived. Xiao Fan, helpless, sighed, "You finally came." In fact, Bi Yao's heart was also filled with helplessness and sorrow.

From childhood memories to their acquaintance as adults and gradually falling in love, those past events replayed in both of their minds. Xiao Fan told Bi Yao that he loved her, and his concern for her exceeded his own life, but he couldn't leave with her. Bi Yao cried, loudly asking Xiao Fan what he had seen in the Full Moon Well.

Xiao Fan recalled the scene he saw in the Full Moon Well, where Bi Yao sacrificed her life to block an attack for him. He shook his head, his face full of pain, and told Bi Yao that whether he could be with her now no longer mattered; he only wanted her to live happily. Tears streamed down Bi Yao's face.

She said that she and Xiao Fan had not been happy until now, so she hoped Xiao Fan could take her away, leave these conflicts, and live their own lives. Xiao Fan's silence let Bi Yao know the answer. She wiped away her tears and unleashed her magic. Xiao Fan called out Bi Yao's name.

He ultimately did not want to fight Bi Yao, but Bi Yao did not stop her actions, so Xiao Fan had no choice but to defend. Suddenly, Bi Yao sensed You Ji was in danger and rushed to support her. You Ji told Wan Jianyi that no matter what, she would take him with her today. After speaking, You Ji increased her magical power. Wan Jianyi accidentally injured You Ji while attacking.

At this time, Cang Song was injured in his fight with Jing Yu; after all, Wan Jianyi had passed on his lifelong teachings to Jing Yu, significantly increasing Jing Yu's power. Cang Song fell to the side. Sensing You Ji's injury, he rushed over and took her away. At this moment, on the Rainbow Bridge of Tongtian Peak, Qing Song and Shui Yue confronted each other. The Ghost King suddenly arrived. Shui Yue was exhausted. Fortunately, Tian Bu Yi arrived.

Tian Bu Yi made a decisive decision, blew up the Rainbow Bridge, and left with Shui Yue. The Ghost King, knowing that You Ji and her group had failed, ordered a retreat. In the main hall, Shangguan Ce and Pu Kong, among others, used their cultivation to help Dao Xuan heal. Tian Bu Yi expressed his gratitude to both factions.

Since the Demon Cult members had retreated and the threat to Qingyun was temporarily eliminated, Shangguan Ce and Pu Kong and the others also bid farewell. Late at night, the various peak masters were still in seclusion helping Dao Xuan heal. Xiao Fan, his thoughts muddled, came to Grass Temple Village and met Shu Shu on the road. Subsequently, Xue Qi and Jing Yu also arrived in the village. Xiao Fan chatted with Jing Yu.

Jing Yu found it difficult to let go of the hatred from the massacre of Grass Temple Village. Xiao Fan recounted his own mental journey after learning the truth, persuading him to let go of his hatred.

Episode 53 Recap

Late at night, You Ji and Bi Yao chatted freely. You Ji asked Bi Yao to look at the wound on her shoulder, making Bi Yao remember that the Righteous and Demonic paths are inherently different, and she and Zhang Xiaofan would never have a future together, just as Wan Jianyi still cruelly wounded her today. Bi Yao sighed, lamenting that when one hurts the person they love, their heart must be filled with bitterness and helplessness.

Bi Yao told You Ji that even though the wound was on her body, Wan Jianyi's heart felt even more pain. You Ji persuaded Bi Yao not to go up Qingyun Mountain tomorrow, because there would be a fierce battle.

Bi Yao said she didn't understand why her father and the people of the Ghost King Sect would stop at nothing to avenge a century-old hatred, why Zhang Xiaofan could let go of the hatred in his heart, but everyone else could not. You Ji felt helpless and could only tell Bi Yao that her father was doing it for the entire Ghost King Sect. The Ghost King and Ghost Mister discussed tomorrow's actions.

The ever-mysterious Ghost Mister told the Ghost King that tomorrow, he only needed to capture Tongtian Peak, and he himself would find a way to take the Zhuxian Sword. Zeng Shushu knew of a secret passage leading to the Ghost King Sect. Jing Yu and Xiaofan secretly entered it overnight, while Shushu and Xueqi remained on the ground to coordinate with their actions.

The leader of the Ten Thousand Poison Sect and Yu Yangzi of the Longevity Hall sat together to discuss. They believed the Ghost King was merely using them. Today, countless disciples from their sects were killed or injured, but You Ji only suffered a slight injury, and Bi Yao was completely unharmed. They thought the Ghost King was exploiting them.

Yu Yangzi suggested that when attacking Qingyun tonight, their two factions should hide at the back and simply reap the benefits of the conflict. Even though Shuichang Zeng had diminished his cultivation to help Daoxuan heal, the Seven-Tailed Centipede Poison in Daoxuan's body could still not be completely cleared. Shuchang Zeng suggested that Jing Yu, Xiaofan, and others leave Qingyun so that the legacy of Qingyun could be preserved.

Tian Buyi stated that these children would absolutely not leave Qingyun, and he had discovered that Jing Yu, Xiaofan, Shushu, and Xueqi were already gone. He suspected that these few had already gone down the mountain and gone to attack the enemy camp overnight. Jing Yu and Xiaofan in the secret passage were discovered by people from the Longevity Hall. They took Jing Yu to see the Ghost King and Yu Yangzi.

Yu Yangzi stated that Lin Jingyu and he had an irreconcilable feud and he would drag Lin Jingyu outside to execute him. The Ghost King said that keeping Lin Jingyu was useful, and then ordered Yu Yangzi to leave. This made Yu Yangzi once again suspect the Ghost King's motives. After the two left, the Ghost King asked Lin Jingyu who had injected the blood of beasts into his body. Lin Jingyu frankly admitted it was his master.

He fearlessly told the Ghost King that even if a traitor like Cang Song appeared in the Qingyun Sect, Qingyun would still not perish. The Ghost King asked Lin Jingyu to reveal Zhang Xiaofan's whereabouts, but Lin Jingyu remained tight-lipped, refusing to reveal a single word. Zhang Xiaofan returned and met up with Zeng Shushu, told Shushu the information he had gathered, and discussed with him how to proceed next.

It turned out that Xiaofan had placed highly destructive explosives in the plank road, but they believed it was not the best time to detonate them yet. Xiaofan stated that last night, he had overheard the conversation between Yu Yangzi and the leader of the Ten Thousand Poison Sect in the plank road, and felt that there were rifts among the various demonic sects, so they could use a stratagem to sow discord. Jing Yu was tied up and imprisoned.

Jin Ping'er came to see him and told him that the Ghost King had sent her to take his life. Jing Yu showed no fear, stating that he would not blame her, as he had saved her back then because he saw kindness in her heart. Jin Ping'er said, "Forgive my offense," and made her move. Poison God, the leader of the Ten Thousand Poison Sect, snuck into You Ji's room.

The wicked Poison God had always lusted after You Ji's beauty, and when he intended to lay his hands on her, You Ji fiercely fought back against him. At this moment, Qin Wuyan walked over to Bi Yao, who was spacing out in the courtyard, and told her that he would personally take care of Zhang Xiaofan tomorrow. Bi Yao argued with him.

Just then, Qin Wuyan's junior disciple arrived and told him that their master and You Ji were fighting. The Ghost King and Qin Wuyan rushed over and stopped You Ji and Poison God. Zhang Xiaofan went to the room where Jing Yu was imprisoned but found it empty. He immediately wanted to rush out to find Jing Yu when Ghost Mister suddenly appeared, blocking Xiaofan's path.

Actually, Jin Ping'er had cleverly taken Lin Jingyu away and had already sent him up the mountain. Ghost Mister and Zhang Xiaofan fought all the way up the mountain, where they encountered Jing Yu and Jin Ping'er. Unexpectedly, Ghost Mister let Zhang Xiaofan and Lin Jingyu go and left with Jin Ping'er. Xiaofan arranged for everyone to act separately. Xueqi called out to Xiaofan and asked him if he was going to see Bi Yao. Xiaofan stated that this was his final parting with Bi Yao.

Episode 54 Recap

Xueqi and Jingyu acted according to the plan discussed with Xiaofan and Shushu, secretly placing Wandumen's magical artifacts in the rooms of Changshengtang disciples, which triggered a dispute between the two factions. Dushen and Yuyangzi rushed to the scene upon hearing the news. Both, favoring their respective sects, also argued endlessly and had to go to Guiwang for an explanation.

Yuyangzi suggested that perhaps this matter was deliberately caused by Youji after being bullied by Dushen, indicating that a rift had already formed within the Demonic Sect. Dushen no longer trusted Guiwang. He led the disciples of Wandumen to Qingyun. Qin Wuyan tried to persuade his master, because with the current situation, Qingyun was already on high alert, and attacking first would surely lead to losses.

However, Dushen and Wandumen refused to believe him, believing that he had been too close to Guiwang in the past. Dushen ordered Qin Wuyan to return to Guiwangzong to monitor Guiwang's movements. Xueqi and Jingyu, together, injected their magical power into the magical artifacts, detonating the gunpowder buried in the tunnel. On the street, Biyao was lost in thought by herself. She heard the sound of her Hehuan Bell and called out loudly for Xiaofan.

Xiaofan approached and told Biyao that he had come this time to kill people from the Demonic Sect. Biyao said she knew and told Xiaofan to go ahead. Xiaofan stated that he had once said that when they met again, the righteous and demonic factions would face each other in battle. Now his words had come true. After speaking, Xiaofan stepped forward, embraced Biyao, and whispered four words into her ear: Hou Hui Wu Qi. Then he turned and left.

Qin Wuyan, no longer trusted by his sect, felt dejected and disheartened. He walked alone on the mountain and met Shushu face to face. Qin Wuyan stated that now that they met, he was no longer the defense officer of Yudou City, and Zeng Shushu was no longer the lord of Yudou City. Shushu said he came here just to ask him one question: "Along this path you've walked, do you truly have a clear conscience?

My maternal grandfather once valued and trusted you, allowing you to pursue your ambitions. But I don't understand why Qin Wuyan betrayed my grandfather's trust to join Wandumen." Qin Wuyan told Shushu, "Some people are born in the sun, while others are born in darkness, destined to walk in darkness all their lives. This is my fate." Shushu asked Qin Wuyan, "If I forgive you, will you turn back?"

Qin Wuyan did not believe Shushu, drew his sword, and the two began to fight fiercely. Xiaofan, Xueqi, and Jingyu arrived in time to rescue them. Qin Wuyan was severely wounded. Qinglong, who had always regarded Qin Wuyan as a younger brother, arrived and told Zhang Xiaofan that to defeat Qin Wuyan, he must first overcome him. Zhang Xiaofan fearlessly replied, "No problem." Just as Xiaofan and the other three were about to act, Guiwang appeared.

He stated that he had underestimated Zhang Xiaofan's cunning and ordered them to rush back to Qingyun, saying they might still make it in time to witness Qingyun's destruction. Xueqi realized Qingyun was in danger, and the four hastily left. At Qingyun, Wandumen attacked. Zeng Shuchang led his people to resist valiantly, driving away the Wandumen members. Shushu arrived and hastily instructed his father and senior disciples in the sect to take anti-poison pills.

His father, relieved, sighed with emotion that Zeng Shushu had grown up. Shuiyue wanted Xueqi to leave. Xueqi and her senior sister Wenmin declared that they would defend Qingyun to the death. Shuiyue was comforted and told Xueqi, Wenmin, and all her disciples to join her in a decisive battle against the Demonic Sect. Dushen fought fiercely with Song Daren, Qi Hao, Tian Ling'er, and others. Zhang Xiaofan arrived in time and fought Dushen with all his might.

Dushen fell to the ground, and Xiaofan also fainted. Song Daren and the others wanted to fight Dushen to the death. However, Dushen, lacking strength, escaped. Xiaofan woke up and saw his master's wife, Su Ru, by his side. Su Ru asked Xiaofan if he had gone down the mountain. Xiaofan remained silent. Su Ru pressed on, asking about Biyao. Xiaofan was surprised.

Su Ru said that there was no right or wrong in matters of the heart and that she trusted Xiaofan. Xiaofan got up and strolled in the courtyard. He overheard a conversation between his senior sister Tian Ling'er and Qi Hao. Qi Hao thanked Xiaofan for saving him this time. Tian Ling'er, seeing Xiaofan come out, excitedly told him that once they defeated the Demonic Sect this time, she and Qi Hao were going to get married. Guiwang led Biyao, Youji, and Qinglong to Qingyun, preparing for a decisive battle.

Episode 55 (Ending) Recap

The Ghost King led the various sects of the Demonic Sect to Qingyun, threatening to flatten Qingyun and demanding that Tian Buyi hand over the Zhuxian Sword. Tian Buyi stated that it was absolutely impossible. He and Shui Yue led Xue Qi, Xiao Fan, Lin Jingyu, and many other disciples to fight a decisive battle against the Demonic Sect.

Bi Yao had been searching for Xiao Fan's figure, and seeing Xiao Fan confront the Poison God, she couldn't help but feel a little worried. Xiao Fan saw his master dueling with the Ghost King, so he dealt a fatal blow to the Poison God and rushed to support his master. During his confrontation with the Ghost King, Xiao Fan was severely wounded and lay on the ground. At this moment, Dao Xuan arrived with the Zhuxian Sword.

He unleashed the Zhuxian Sword Array, and the Ghost King was pierced by a sword, with everyone else also trapped within the Zhuxian Sword Array. Dao Xuan's mind was corrupted by the Zhuxian Sword. He believed that Xiao Fan, possessing the cultivation methods of both Qingyun and Tianyin sects, would surely become a great threat in the future, and thus decided to eliminate Xiao Fan. Xiao Fan and Bi Yao both saw the killing intent in Dao Xuan's eyes.

Xiao Fan was puzzled, as he hadn't committed any wrong. Bi Yao broke through the shackles of the Zhuxian Sword Array, used all her spiritual power to confront Dao Xuan, offering her own body as a sacrifice, vowing "Three lives and seven generations, forever falling into the Underworld, all for love, with no regrets even unto death." Just like that, Bi Yao saved Xiao Fan with her life. The heavily struck Bi Yao fell into Xiao Fan's arms.

She used all her strength to call out "Xiao Fan" one last time, then closed her eyes. Severely wounded, Xiao Fan watched helplessly as the love of his life died in his arms. He wide-eyed, stared at the sky, clutching Bi Yao tightly in his arms, unable and unwilling to believe the reality before him. And so, Xiao Fan held Bi Yao until late into the night, until a torrential downpour arrived.

When Xiao Fan woke up, he found himself in the Ghost King Sect. It turned out that the Ghost King and others had forcibly brought him here. Xiao Fan still refused to accept the fact that Bi Yao was gone, his mind filled with the entire process of how he and Bi Yao met, came to know each other, and fell in love, all the experiences they shared.

Qing Long came before Xiao Fan, stating that he knew Zhang Xiaofan needed rest in his current state, but time was urgent, and the Ghost King wanted to see him. In truth, for Qing Long, he also could not accept the fact of Bi Yao's passing. After all, he was Bi Yao's most doting elder brother. He said that if killing Xiao Fan could revive Bi Yao, then he might just do it, but that was not the case.

The Ghost King met Xiao Fan. Grief-stricken by the loss of his beloved daughter, the Ghost King also looked exceptionally haggard. He told Xiao Fan that he brought him to Huqi Mountain because he feared that if Xiao Fan remained in Qingyun, he would be cruelly framed again. He had not expected Bi Yao's determination to protect Xiao Fan to be so resolute, so he did not want to disappoint her.

Xiao Fan questioned the Ghost King, saying he should not have brought Bi Yao to Qingyun in the first place. The Ghost King had no intention of explaining further; after all, this matter was his pain. At this moment, these two individuals, one from the righteous path and one from the demonic path, who adhered to different beliefs, were both thinking of the same person—the most important person in their lives.

The Ghost King stated that all he wanted now was to save his daughter's life, and he was willing to do anything. He remembered Bi Yao had said that he had once experienced something akin to death at Dinghai Manor, on Mount Guansang. Xiao Fan understood what the Ghost King was getting at and immediately offered to go to Guansing Cliff, but the Ghost King said that would take too long.

He explained that in the Barren Divine Hall, their main headquarters, there was a spell that could extend Bi Yao's life for seven days by utilizing the power of the Heavenly Book. They could use these seven days to temporarily keep Bi Yao alive while they searched for other methods to revive her. The Ghost King led Xiao Fan into the hall to perform the spell for Bi Yao.

Looking at the sleeping Bi Yao, Xiao Fan began to tell her the words he had always wanted to say. The Ghost King entered the hall and told Xiao Fan that they should work together to save Bi Yao, and that he could tell her those words when she woke up. You Ji had been blaming herself, feeling that she hadn't taken good care of Bi Yao. Qing Long comforted her.

Wild Dog burst in, shouting, and told them that Cang Song had arrived. Cang Song came with Yu Yangzi; they intended to take advantage of the situation to eliminate the Ghost King. Qing Long fought Cang Song with all his might, but fighting one against two was ultimately difficult. Qing Long was trapped in place by Yu Yangzi's spell, unable to move. Fortunately, the Ghost King arrived, severely injuring Yu Yangzi, and Cang Song left with him.

At Qingyun, Dao Xuan was recuperating behind closed doors, while Shui Yue and Zheng Liang were bedridden with severe injuries. Tian Buyi instructed the disciples to learn how to handle various matters. Jingyu worried about Xiao Fan's safety. Xue Qi suggested that they could first gather intelligence on the Demonic Sect's movements to prepare early, and if the timing was right, they could try a proactive strike.

Tian Buyi expressed his satisfaction that these children had all grown up, and stated that he would listen to their opinions this time. Xiao Yicai volunteered, offering to go gather information on the Demonic Sect. Jingyu expressed willingness to go with Xiao Yicai. The Ghost King was severely injured. You Ji and Jin Ping'er came to visit him.

The Ghost King expressed that Jin Ping'er had let Lin Jingyu go last time, asking how he could trust her again this time. You Ji mediated, explaining that a rabble from Changsheng Hall had attacked last night, and Jin Ping'er had helped her a lot, urging the Ghost King not to dwell on past matters. You Ji then asked where Zhang Xiaofan was.

The Ghost King replied that Zhang Xiaofan had gone to Yudu with Wild Dog to search for the Guansing Cliff Spirit Stone. Qin Wuyan, who was nearby, immediately offered to go to Yudu to help Zhang Xiaofan find the spirit stone. At Guansing Cliff, Xiao Fan reminisced about everything that had happened between him and Bi Yao there. In a trance, he felt as if Bi Yao was still sitting under the big tree, smiling at him. He told Bi Yao to wait for him, vowing that he would definitely return.