Once Upon a Time in Lingjian Mountain Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Once Upon a Time in Lingjian Mountain Synopsis
For thousands of years, the Lingjian Sect has been committed to training talents. In order to further expand the strength of the sect and replenish ”fresh blood“, a qualification selection meeting was held to invite elites from the world.
Wang Lu, a genius who came down due to the comet fall and the Mofa catastrophe, entered the Lingjian Sect with a spiritual power that had not existed for thousands of years and with a modern mind.
With scientific knowledge and super emotional intelligence to crush the other world, he embarked on the road to becoming the most powerful!
Once Upon a Time in Lingjian Mountain Recap
Episode 1 Recap
In the ancient land of Kyushu, atop Lingjian Mountain, resided the Lingjian sect. Their venerable leader, Feng Yin, was engaged in a profound divination when he was interrupted by Wang Wu, the sect's Fifth Elder, who playfully requested Spirit Stones for wine. Though initially distracted, Feng Yin, after being playfully chided by Wang Wu for mistaking a candlestick for the sacred Star Sword, resumed his divination with renewed focus.
The Star Sword's infallible prophecy revealed a dire fate: Kyushu faced utter destruction in less than a quarter of an hour. Resigned, Feng Yin declared he would calmly await the end. However, Wang Wu, recalling the words of a past master to "never give up," vehemently argued, even proposing she take over as leader to "die with no regrets."
Just as their debate intensified, a celestial anomaly occurred: a peculiar star, described as a jinx, plummeted to Kyushu, miraculously averting the catastrophe and saving the continent from its impending doom. Simultaneously, in a quiet corner of Kyushu, an infant was born into the Wang Mansion. Though initially silent, the baby surprised its caretakers by letting out a resounding cry on command, demonstrating a remarkable wit from birth. This child was Wang Lu. Many years passed swiftly.
Wang Lu grew into a sharp-witted young man, and a momentous event captivated Kyushu: the Lingjian sect, one of the Five Sects, reopened its doors for a tryout, seeking new disciples. Throngs of aspiring cultivators flocked to Lingxi town, filling its inns. The renowned Home Inn, run by the formidable Feng Ling, was no exception.
The Seventh Prince Zhu Qin, of the Ming kingdom, attempted to secure lodging, but Feng Ling, unimpressed by his royal status, curtly informed him the inn was full. She then announced that the coveted Suites required a special Admission Coupon, of which there was only one in the entire town. To the astonishment of all, Wang Lu stepped forward, having shrewdly deduced the requirement, and presented the unique coupon, gaining entry to the exclusive Suites.
That night, Hai Yunfan, a fellow participant from Yuntai, visited Wang Lu in his Suite, eager to learn how he acquired the Admission Coupon. Wang Lu, ever the opportunist, demanded Hai Yunfan serve him as a servant for a day in exchange for the information. Hai Yunfan agreed, and Wang Lu then spun a fantastical, absurd tale about helping an old man pursue a girl, which supposedly led to him receiving the coupon.
Despite its implausibility, Hai Yunfan found the story captivating. Wang Lu then revealed his true insight: the tryout had, in fact, begun the moment they stepped foot in Lingxi town, and the Admission Coupon was merely the first test. Meanwhile, Wang Wu cornered Feng Ling, demanding the Xiaoyun Coin. Feng Ling refused, citing Wang Wu's notorious reputation for "lying, cheating, and entertainment."
Frustrated, Wang Wu mentioned that the Admission Coupon test had already been solved, indicating the caliber of the new applicants. Unable to secure the coin through persuasion, Wang Wu threatened to side with Feng Ling's father in their long-standing feud. She then presented a challenge from Feng Ling's father: if Feng Ling could sell 100 radishes within a day, he would cease interfering in her personal life; if she failed, she would be forced to return to Lingjian sect.
Feng Ling, confident in her abilities, accepted the bet, only to be dismayed when Wang Wu revealed the crucial condition: each radish must be sold for a thousand taels. The next day, Wang Lu and Hai Yunfan found Feng Ling in despair over the impossible task. Wang Lu, sensing an opportunity, offered to sell all the radishes, but demanded a 10,000-tael upfront payment, which was Feng Ling's entire savings. She reluctantly agreed.
However, by the next morning, Wang Lu had seemingly vanished with the money. Furious, Feng Ling issued an S Level Task for his capture, promising the next tryout question as a reward. Hai Yunfan tried to vouch for Wang Lu, but Feng Ling, enraged, threatened him as well. Prince Zhu Qin, determined to succeed, correctly surmised that Wang Lu would have fled town.
Outside Lingxi, he encountered an old man, who was, unbeknownst to him, Wang Zhong, Wang Lu's cunning servant in disguise. Wang Zhong, posing as an immortal, extracted increasing sums of money (totaling 120,000 taels) from Zhu Qin in exchange for cryptic poetic clues about Wang Lu's whereabouts. Each poem led Zhu Qin on circuitous detours through the landscape, while Wang Zhong, by taking direct routes, constantly reappeared before the prince, reinforcing the illusion of his divine powers.
Zhu Qin finally located Wang Lu, realizing the "treasure" he was chasing was a mere radish. Wang Lu, feigning desperation and threatening to destroy the radish with a knife, convinced Zhu Qin that it was a priceless "divine treasure" capable of cleansing spiritual roots, extorting even more money. With the substantial sum in hand, Wang Lu returned to Feng Ling, securing her victory in the bet. Pleased, Feng Ling gifted Wang Lu the Xiaoyun Coin.
Wang Wu was livid, as the coin was bonded to its new owner and could not be forcibly taken. In a fit of pique, she magically cursed the upcoming tryout test. Later, a mysterious figure in black appeared to Zhu Qin, revealing Wang Lu's elaborate deception and Wang Zhong's true identity. The one in black cautioned Zhu Qin against confronting Wang Lu, warning that Home Inn's deep ties to the Lingjian sect could lead to his disqualification.
Instead, the figure proposed an alliance, offering to help Zhu Qin quickly pass the tryout. Three days later, the official tryout commenced with the first challenge: the Golden Bridge. This bridge had an age restriction, allowing only those under 23 to cross. Prince Zhu Qin, utilizing special eyedrops provided by the one in black to navigate the bridge's illusory mist, swiftly became the first to successfully complete the challenge.
Feng Yin, the sect leader, congratulated Zhu Qin and offered him a wish related to the test. Zhu Qin, with a cunning smile, wished for the difficulty of the test to be increased a hundredfold for all subsequent participants. Though surprised by his ambition, Feng Yin granted the wish. The Golden Bridge instantly transformed into a treacherous quicksand pit.
Wang Lu, his servant Wang Zhong, and Hai Yunfan, who had waited to cross with Wang Lu (and whose mere presence had earlier intimidated a large, older man on the bridge), plummeted into the sinking sand. Wang Lu quickly instructed Wang Zhong to remain still, explaining that frantic movements would only cause them to sink faster.
Recognizing that escaping the quicksand would require an external push, Wang Lu, demonstrating unexpected selflessness, spread his body weight across the sand and heroically offered himself as a stepping stone, urging Hai Yunfan to use him to climb out, stating that one of them had to sacrifice themselves for the others to survive.
Episode 2 Recap
Half a year before the tryouts, Wang Wu encountered Wang Lu and his servant, Zhong, in Wang Family Village. At the time, Wang Lu was deliberately destroying the numerous award cups he had won, explaining to Zhong that too much honor could become a burden, and breaking them was necessary to move forward in life. He also expressed uncertainty about his future path, indicating he didn't want to pursue an official career as it meant working for others.
Wang Wu, sensing the aura of her Senior Brother, discovered a Myriad Year Darksteel nearby. Disguising herself as the River Lord, she attempted to trick Wang Lu into giving her his iron statuette, even offering him a golden or silver one instead. Wang Lu, however, consistently insisted on his iron statuette. Frustrated by his stubbornness, Wang Wu resorted to a magical display of power.
Instantly recognizing her immense power, Wang Lu quickly changed his tune, declaring that anything lost in the river, or even not lost, belonged to her. Pleased, Wang Wu revealed herself as a Lingjian sect member and offered him one wish in exchange for the Darksteel. Wang Lu asked to cultivate. Wang Wu warned him that his aptitude was extremely low, with only a "one in a hundred million" chance of success.
Undeterred, Wang Lu boldly declared that even with such slim odds, he would succeed if she took him to the mountain, promising to show the immense power of wisdom and vowing never to give up until the very end. Impressed, Wang Wu smiled and departed, leaving him a unique admission ticket to the tryouts. The scene then returned to the present, with Wang Lu, Hai Yunfan, and Zhong trapped in the quicksand of the Golden Bridge trial.
Wang Zhong panicked, but Wang Lu calmly explained that any movement would only cause them to sink deeper. Hai Yunfan confirmed this, noting that self-rescue was impossible; escape required external force, such as stepping on another person. Wang Lu then instructed Hai Yunfan to step on him, offering himself as the "sacrifice" for their escape. Wang Zhong protested, but Wang Lu reassured Hai Yunfan to be gentle. Hai Yunfan discovered two stone tablets nearby: "Kill to survive" and "Share hardship."
Hai Yunfan, now understanding that the quicksand test was designed to promote cooperation, chose "share hardship" and stepped on Wang Lu, allowing himself to escape. Wang Lu and Zhong then awoke to find themselves safely passed through the test. The Lingjian sect disciple overseeing the trial explained that because Hai Yunfan chose to "share hardship" and had already progressed to the next stage through a different path, Wang Lu and Zhong also passed.
This seamless teamwork between Wang Lu and Hai Yunfan, however, stirred a seed of jealousy within Wang Zhong. The disciple then informed them that while they would normally join the Xiaoyao Peak as outer disciples, this year there was an additional inner-sect test: the Cloud Painting, a dangerous challenge where their lives were irrelevant. Wang Lu confidently proclaimed himself a "Golden Finger" at passing trials, unconcerned by the danger.
The disciple, noting Wang Lu's unusual confidence, offered a cryptic hint: "No arrow turns back once shot, and every blade of grass and tree is fate." Wang Lu and Zhong soon reached a cliff. Wang Zhong, scared, suggested they were lost, but Wang Lu, recalling the hint, confidently explained it was an entrance to a "dungeon." He stepped forward, stating that there was "no 'if'" on the path of cultivation. From a distance, elders Hua Yun and Liu Xian observed.
Hua Yun marveled that Wang Lu had navigated the Cloud Painting in just two hours, a feat previously only achieved by Sect Leader Feng Yin. Liu Xian then discovered a new, unplanned section of the tryout: Peach Blossom Village, designed by Wang Wu. Liu Xian was furious and tried to cancel it, but it was already too late. Upon entering Peach Blossom Village, Wang Lu immediately recognized it as a role-playing game-like challenge.
He explained to Wang Zhong that they would need to constantly interact with villagers to gather information and complete hidden tasks to advance. The village head welcomed them warmly, claiming Wang Lu was their first guest in 300 years. Inside the village, Wang Lu, Hai Yunfan, and Wang Zhong encountered Zhu Qin, the Seventh Prince, who tried to intimidate Wang Lu, showing off various powerful charms.
However, Wang Lu, knowing that the village head had declared Peach Blossom Village a "peaceful place" where violence was forbidden, instead loudly called for help. A black-clad figure, who Wang Lu recognized as a "Skeleton Guard" from a "main city," quickly appeared and disciplined Zhu Qin. Later, Sect Leader Feng Yin confronted Wang Wu about unilaterally changing the tryout rules.
Wang Wu defended her new mission, arguing it tested "EQ" and "social interaction" for cultivation, complaining that the elders didn't understand her. Despite her pleas and feigned sadness, Feng Yin refused to pay for her "useless work" and warned her against further disruptions. Afterward, the black-clad figure reappeared to Wang Lu, attempting to trick him into giving up his Xiaoyun coin, claiming it was part of a "love line" game.
Wang Lu, however, saw through her ruse, realizing the figure was Wang Wu in disguise and that the coin was very important. He successfully prevented her from taking it, much to her annoyance. Wang Lu and his companions then tried to gather information from the villagers but found them ignorant of anything beyond their daily routines. They did, however, befriend Wen Bao, the son of the Imperial Preceptor of Canglan Kingdom, who was seeking a team.
Wang Lu initially refused to team up with Wen Bao, predicting that Wen Bao, being "pig-headed but brave," would eventually trigger a significant plot event and return. Meanwhile, Wang Zhong secretly met with Zhu Qin, who subtly began to sow discord. Zhu Qin expressed sympathy for Wang Zhong, questioning if Wang Lu intended to keep him as a servant forever, despite Wang Zhong's talent, which was proven by passing the Golden Bridge.
He suggested Wang Zhong deserved to be an equal. Wang Zhong, feeling increasingly marginalized by Wang Lu and Hai Yunfan's closeness, was swayed by Zhu Qin's words. Later, as Wang Lu was discussing their next steps, he noticed Wang Zhong's distraction. Wen Bao then burst in, excited, with a large quantity of special desserts from Ms. Liu, who thought he resembled her deceased brother.
Wang Lu immediately recognized Ms. Liu as a controversial figure known for "seducing men everywhere" whose house was recently destroyed, forcing her to live with the village head. He also recalled her flirting with the village head during dinner, much to his wife's anger, and Wen Bao confirmed a recent loud quarrel between the two women.
Wang Lu concluded that solving the conflict between Ms. Liu and the village head's wife was the key to restoring the village head's authority and preventing chaos in the village. He identified this as at least an "A-level Task." Wang Zhong eagerly volunteered to undertake the task, feeling he had learned enough from Wang Lu, but Wang Lu dismissed him, assigning Hai Yunfan and Wen Bao to it instead.
Hai Yunfan noted that others were already adopting their strategy, but Wang Lu was unconcerned, stating that more people participating in this stage would be beneficial. Later, as Wang Lu waited for Wang Zhong to return, Wang Zhong confronted him, accusing Wang Lu of trying to ruin his future and keep him as a servant, despite Wang Zhong's own potential to cultivate. He declared that Wang Lu had never treated him as a person.
With a kowtow, Wang Zhong stated he was repaying Wang Lu's kindness for adopting him, declaring their relationship officially severed. As Wang Zhong packed his bags, Wang Lu asked if someone was waiting for him outside. Wang Zhong confirmed that indeed, "someone "does" treat me as a person," before departing. Wang Lu was left to reflect on how seven years of loyalty had amounted to less than the influence of an outsider.
Episode 3 Recap
Wang Zhong reflected on his life by Wang Lu's side, constantly being called stupid and ordered around. He wondered if he was destined to be a servant forever. Zhu Qin fueled his discontent, pointing out Wang Lu’s friendliness towards Hai Yunfan while treating Wang Zhong dismissively, asking if he truly wished to remain an errand boy his entire life. Wang Zhong's deep-seated desire to distinguish himself was ignited.
Wang Lu, unaware of the full extent of Zhu Qin's manipulation, later commented that the Peach Blossom Village test wasn't about intelligence but emotional quotient, and that its designer was likely unpopular within the LingJian sect. Days later, the hidden issues in Peach Blossom Village came to a head. The village head was preoccupied with domestic disputes, leaving village affairs neglected and the villagers increasingly agitated. Wang Lu and his companions decided it was time to act.
Hai Yunfan had already discovered the root of the problem from Ms. Liu. He revealed to Wang Lu that Ms. Liu had intentionally burned down her own house to secure a stay at the village head’s home, hoping to marry her cousin, the village head. This led to a fierce rivalry between Ms. Liu and the village head’s wife, leaving the village head in an awkward position.
Hai Yunfan suggested a simple solution: rebuild Ms. Liu's house so she would move out. However, Wang Lu dismissed this, stating it only treated the symptoms and not the underlying cause. As Wang Lu and Hai Yunfan discussed a more comprehensive solution, they noticed Zhu Qin eavesdropping. Seizing the opportunity, Wang Lu deliberately stated that to truly "conquer" the village head, they needed to steal his chamber pot. Zhu Qin fell for the trick, ending up carrying the foul-smelling pot.
Wang Lu then playfully called Zhu Qin a cheater. Soon after, Hai Yunfan announced his departure, having received the village head's promise to be the first to leave Peach Blossom Village. He congratulated Wang Lu on his wisdom, knowing Wang Lu could have left on the first day if he hadn't been aiming for a "perfect completion" due to his self-proclaimed OCD.
Before leaving, Hai Yunfan subtly warned Wang Lu about Wang Zhong, cautioning that despite his name meaning loyalty, he possessed a rebellious spirit and was becoming increasingly restless, suggesting he might not remain loyal. Meanwhile, Wang Zhong continued to meet secretly with Zhu Qin, divulging Wang Lu's thoughts. Zhu Qin, seizing the moment, further provoked Wang Zhong, implying Wang Lu was burnt out and deliberately hindering Wang Zhong's path to cultivation to keep him as a servant.
Upon returning to his residence after seeing Hai Yunfan off, Wang Lu, recalling Hai Yunfan's warning, contemplated if his own "too aggressive" demeanor had caused Wang Zhong to feel ill-treated. He resolved to be kinder and even prepared strategies to share with Wang Zhong. However, Wang Zhong was already packing his bags, determined to leave. He confronted Wang Lu, asking if Wang Lu truly intended to ruin his future and keep him as a lifelong servant.
Wang Zhong accused Wang Lu of never treating him as a person and of being cruel due to vanity, emphasizing how important it was for him to cross the Golden Bridge to prove his cultivation potential. Wang Zhong performed three deep kowtows: one for Wang Lu’s act of adoption, one for his education, and a final one for bringing him to the Golden Bridge. He declared their relationship severed.
Wang Lu, realizing someone was waiting for Wang Zhong outside, asked if that was the case. Wang Zhong confirmed that someone else valued him as a person. Wang Lu was resigned, knowing some people simply cannot be kept, lamenting that seven years of loyalty could be so easily swayed by an outsider's words. Despite his earlier intentions of sharing strategies, he let Wang Zhong go. With Wang Zhong gone, Wang Lu could finally focus wholeheartedly on his own quest completion.
He spent a month meticulously preparing, connecting all the seemingly independent tasks within Peach Blossom Village into a cohesive narrative, with the ultimate goal of uncovering the true hidden character. The next day, he set his plan into motion. He began by assisting Mrs. Huang, whose task had supposedly already been completed by another entrant. Wang Lu then took the water to Scholar Huang, whose own task had also been finished by a prior entrant.
Wang Lu completed a difficult couplet for Scholar Huang, impressing the teacher who regretfully admitted he had already taken a final disciple. Wang Lu then used Scholar Huang’s "unwashed sweat towel" to trade for Ms. Fang’s homemade steamed pork slices with rice, revealing Ms. Fang’s secret affection for Scholar Huang. Spectators watched in amazement as Wang Lu systematically completed all "120 chain of quests" in the village. Finally, he summoned the last hidden individual, confirming her identity as Wang Wu.
Wang Wu revealed her final test was simple: make her happy. Wang Lu, without hesitation, presented her with a Xiaoyun coin. Though fleeting, a genuine smile appeared on Wang Wu's face, forcing her to acknowledge that he had passed without cheating. As he prepared to leave, Wang Lu, sensing Wang Wu's underlying melancholy despite her playful demeanor, shared a story.
He spoke of meeting a "fairy lady" who, despite noting his incredibly low cultivation potential, had inspired him to persevere, promising success through hard work. Wang Wu was thoroughly amused by his embellished tale. She then hinted that the upcoming trials would be significantly more challenging, advising him to be cautious. She admitted her anticipation of seeing him again on the mountain, noting that the LingJian sect had not seen anyone as interesting as him in centuries.
Meanwhile, Hai Yunfan, who was the first to successfully navigate Peach Blossom Village and received the Tame Head Scarecrow as a reward, had been traversing the treacherous Ice Wind Valley for over ten days. His journey was difficult but manageable thanks to his prize and natural talent, impressing the observing Elders and Sect Leader. During his journey, he encountered Zhu Qin and Wang Zhong.
Zhu Qin, trying to assert dominance, praised Hai Yunfan's early departure from Peach Blossom Village but subtly mocked his slow progress in Ice Wind Valley, then attempted to coax him into a team, hoping to seize his Magic Treasure. Hai Yunfan politely declined, citing fatigue, and rebuffed Zhu Qin's demands for his reward.
Their standoff was abruptly interrupted by a fierce Moon Rhino, an exotic Category Three Ninth Rank monster from the Western Continent, equivalent in power to a Foundation Establishment Stage cultivator. Hai Yunfan used his Tame Head Scarecrow multiple times, shrinking the beast, but it only momentarily reduced its power before it surged in strength, enraged.
The observing Elders and Sect Leader were perplexed by the monster’s sudden power increase, quickly realizing that Wang Wu, the only one aside from the Sect Leader with such authority, must have tampered with the Ice Wind Valley’s settings. Wang Wu appeared, confirming her modification. She explained her new "more people means more power" mechanism, arguing it was a "humane" design to prevent human wave tactics and added a new layer to the Immortal Path.
The Elders were furious, pointing out that ordinary mortals couldn't possibly gain cultivation so quickly and were now at an impossible disadvantage. Wang Wu, however, confidently stated that someone would certainly pass. Just then, Wang Lu arrived in the Ice Wind Valley, having secured a perfect completion reward from Peach Blossom Village. He immediately spotted Hai Yunfan in peril and rushed to his aid.
The Elders were aghast to see Wang Lu wearing the Cloud Treading Boot, a Category Five Magic Treasure, and wielding the Star Sword, a Category Six Magic Treasure that belonged to the Sect Leader. These priceless artifacts should not have been randomly given to an uncultivated outsider. As the Elders fumed and prepared to confront Wang Wu, she subtly slipped away. Wang Lu, with a single powerful swing of the Star Sword, defeated the Moon Rhino.
A flash of white light enveloped him, and to his surprise, he found he had instantly passed the entire level, realizing the sword was no ordinary weapon, though it immediately broke after the feat. Wang Wu reappeared, furious, scolding Wang Lu for single-handedly destroying the Ice Wind Valley, Red Ridge Mountains, Nether World Path, and Cyan Cloud Canyon, effectively clearing four major checkpoints and allowing everyone behind him to pass.
Wang Lu, initially amazed by his own power, quickly learned from Wang Wu that his extraordinary feat was due to a hidden perfect completion reward: the Sect Leader's Golden Seal, which allowed him to temporarily wield the powerful Star Sword. Wang Wu, overjoyed at retrieving the Golden Seal, was quickly dispossessed of it by the Sect Leader.
The Sect Leader lambasted Wang Wu for her "design flaw" in Peach Blossom Village, detailing the extensive damages: four major realms severely damaged, the Star Sword utterly ruined, and its spirit Silver Frost severely injured, and the Cloud Treading Boot severely impaired, its spirit Lv Yun'er having sealed herself, totaling two hundred thousand top-grade Magic Stones. He announced that Wang Wu's salary would be forfeited for the next twenty years to cover the cost.
Wang Wu theatrically threatened to become a bandit, to which the Sect Leader ironically offered to provide her with a "permission document for robbery." Summoned for an emergency meeting at Cloud Hall, Wang Wu initially refused but quickly complied when threatened with further salary deductions for tardiness. At Cloud Hall, the Elders announced an additional test for all successful entrants: they must pass through the Universe Speculum, a device that would reveal their true qualifications and Magic Root. Hai Yunfan and the other entrants were confused by this unexpected additional test, while Wang Lu confidently mused over which master he would choose.
Episode 4 Recap
The Lingjian sect found themselves with fifteen candidates who had successfully completed the assessment path. This was an unexpected outcome as their original plan anticipated only three final winners who would become inner disciples, and their resources could only support such a limited number. Masters argued over the situation, with Master Wang Wu suggesting they recruit all candidates, while others, particularly the Sixth Senior Brother who was in charge of finance, highlighted the limited resources.
The leader of the sect decided a final interview would be held, where all Masters would personally select the most promising talents based on their performance in the trials. Before the interview, the leader privately spoke with Master Wang Wu, revealing that both she and Ling'er had spoken of a "chosen one." He intended to pay special attention to Wang Lu during the selection process. At Cloud Hall, the candidates were informed of the additional test.
Zhu Qin complained about the extra hurdle, but Hai Yunfan acknowledged its necessity, stating that their success in the previous trial was due to Wang Lu's sword strike. Wang Lu, ever confident, pondered which master he would choose. An elder explained that each candidate would place their hand on the Universe Speculum, which would reveal their qualifications and Magic Root. Zhu Qin eagerly stepped forward first, hoping to make a good impression.
When it was Wang Lu’s turn, the Universe Speculum suddenly burst forth with dazzling light, astounding the Masters. One Master exclaimed that Wang Lu's Magic Root was extraordinary, a rare sight even after centuries of cultivation, even suggesting it be made into a specimen for collection. Wang Lu, unfazed, simply turned and walked away. The Masters then deliberated, announcing that the results would be revealed in half an hour and only three qualified candidates would be chosen.
Outside, the other candidates were convinced Wang Lu was a shoo-in, given the commotion he caused at the Universe Speculum and his impressive performance throughout the trials, including splitting heaven and earth in the Ice Wind Valley with a single sword. They believed his Magic Root was truly rare and that the Masters' reaction proved it. Wang Lu, however, cautioned against premature celebration.
To everyone's surprise, when the results were announced, Wen Bao, Zhu Qin, and Wang Zhong were chosen as inner disciples, while Wang Lu and Hai Yunfan were not. Zhu Qin immediately seized the opportunity to mock Wang Lu, offering him a position as a tea-serving boy if he ever succeeded in cultivation, adding he wasn't interested in Wang Lu either.
Wang Lu, however, saw their situation as a "broken engagement story," a plot where extreme initial suppression leads to greater future glory, claiming they were destined to become "Immortal Kings of the Carefree World." Hai Yunfan, bewildered, did not fully understand. A senior disciple, instructed by the Masters, approached Hai Yunfan, stating that his exceptional performance suggested an error in the test and offered a retest. Hai Yunfan respectfully declined, accepting his new status as an outer disciple.
The senior disciple then explained Wang Lu's situation. His character and perception were impeccable, even surpassing Hai Yunfan's. His Magic Root was the rarest of all Heavenly Magic Roots: the Void Magic Root, similar to those possessed by legendary figures like Immortal Emperor and Ancestor Desheng. However, its very rarity made it nearly impossible to cultivate, as no compatible cultivation method existed, even before the Dharma Ending Age. No sect had ever successfully trained a Void Magic Root cultivator.
Therefore, in this age, the Void Magic Root was considered a mere "rare collectible," lacking practical value. Master Huayun jokingly suggested that if Wang Lu stayed, he could only serve as a mascot for the sect. Wang Lu, instead of being offended, took the "mascot" offer seriously, even inquiring about salary, board, and paid leave.
When a Master tried to backtrack, claiming they were just joking, Wang Lu cleverly reminded them of their esteemed status as sect masters and how their words should be unchangeable, lest the sect lose its credibility and be seen as going back on its word. The Masters were left speechless. Wang Lu then revealed his true motivations: to win a bet and to teach others that "knowledge is power," as he was exasperated by the stupidity of the other candidates.
Master Wang Wu cynically added that a sect mascot could also enjoy the "benefits" of "cheating and swindling, eating, drinking, and having fun" under the sect’s prestigious name, asking if he could give them money. Wang Lu, pondering if he needed to pay a "membership fee," then produced the Xiaoyun coin. The Masters were aghast, recognizing it as the legendary Xiaoyun coin, a relic of their sect's ancestor, True Immortal Xiaoyun.
Master Fang He even jokingly asked if Wang Lu was the leader's illegitimate son. The leader pulled Master Wang Wu aside, expressing his surprise that the coin she had given to Ling'er was now in Wang Lu's possession. Wang Wu explained that Ling'er had given it to Wang Lu after he helped her win a bet.
The leader admitted he had mistakenly believed Wang Zhong to be the "chosen one" based on Ling'er's initial assessment, blaming a temporary inability to fully use his Great Divination Spirit Vision because his spiritual power was used for other purposes. Wang Wu retorted, reminding him that she had even designed quests in Peach Blossom Village to help him retrieve the coin from Wang Lu, yet he had still deducted her salary.
They bickered about whose fault it was, with Wang Wu accusing the leader and the leader accusing her of wanting the coin for herself, before returning to the main hall. The leader announced that whoever possessed the Xiaoyun coin could make any request of the Lingjian sect. Wang Lu, without hesitation, demanded to be the sect leader, infuriating Wang Wu, who immediately cursed him, asking how he dared to snatch the position from her.
The leader explained that such an unrealistic demand would be immediately rejected by the Elder Group, and that even an elder position would be difficult for him to hold. He advised Wang Lu to make a more practical request. Wang Lu then asked for a "super-grade Immortal tool," a demand that Wang Wu also echoed with "Me too!" The leader dismissed it as requiring five thousand years to create.
After complaining about the sect's lack of sincerity, Wang Lu "grudgingly" lowered his demand to become a Successor Disciple. The Masters were unwilling to take on a Successor Disciple. Liu Xian claimed to be too busy with inner disciples, Fang He stated his poor track record in teaching due to a past unfortunate incident involving his disciple, and other Masters also made various excuses like being in charge of outer disciples or financial affairs.
Finally, the important task of training the Successor Disciple fell upon Master Wang Wu, who was deemed the "least busy" by the sect leader. Wang Wu reluctantly accepted the responsibility. After the results were announced, the sect leader announced that all trial participants who were not chosen as inner disciples could become outer disciples, as they had passed all trials. Master Huayun, who was responsible for outer disciples, then led them down the mountain.
Hai Yunfan approached her, asking about Wang Lu's fate, to which she vaguely replied that "all results are the best arrangements." Hai Yunfan then bid farewell to Wang Lu, expressing his belief that the Lingjian sect would keep its promise. Wang Lu was left standing alone. Zhu Qin, an inner disciple, taunted Wang Lu, comparing him to an "unkempt stray dog."
Wang Zhong, now also an inner disciple, was advised by Liu Xian not to look back, as their "worlds are different now," a sentiment Wang Zhong seemed to accept, having decided not to demean himself to cater to Wang Lu anymore. Alone, Wang Lu felt a surge of bitterness and self-doubt, pondering if he could truly find his path given the impracticality of his Void Magic Root, which was considered only a collectible. At that moment, Master Wang Wu appeared.
She chided him for his self-doubt, reminding him that he had persisted despite facing a "one in a billion" probability and had even solved the hidden quests in Peach Blossom Village. She revealed that she was the mysterious "River Lord" he had encountered. Wang Wu formally accepted him as her disciple, admitting her inexperience in teaching but promising to guide him.
Despite his lingering insecurities about his Void Magic Root, Wang Lu asked if he could truly cultivate and what he could learn. Wang Wu confidently promised that she would lead him on the path of Immortal Cultivation, declaring that a mere Void Magic Root would not stump her, and she would not give up until the last second. Wang Lu then accepted, stating, "My name is Wang Lu. From now on, I'm with you."
Wang Wu then took Wang Lu to her residence, Non-Phase Peak, by sword. Wang Lu noted that Lingjian Mountain was located in Cangxi Continent and consisted of twelve peaks, each a blessed land for cultivators. He remarked that while Misty Peak and Star Peak were the highest ranked, Non-Phase Peak was second in spiritual energy, which should be ample for just the two of them. However, he was dismayed to find Non-Phase Peak barren and devoid of vegetation.
Wang Wu casually explained that she had sold all the spiritual plants years ago to pay off a debt, and the buyer had cut the price down to wholesale, leaving her without money to buy new seeds; the plants would only regrow in "three to five hundred years."
Wang Lu internally criticized her for letting her peak become so desolate, realizing it explained her strange personality and her estranged relationships with other Masters, especially given her own low Golden Core realm compared to other elders' Nascent Soul realm. Later, Wang Wu took Wang Lu to the outer disciples' free mess hall for dinner, telling him he would have to fend for himself tomorrow.
There, she put on a fake mole, claiming it made her unrecognizable – a "perfunctory" trick Wang Lu found ridiculous, noting she had previously scammed him. She then theatrically "inspected" the food, offering overly elaborate praises to the bewildered cooks as if she were an incognito emperor, telling them to "Rise!" That night, Wang Wu gave Wang Lu a "talent test" in the form of a quiz.
Wang Lu answered with surprising speed and accuracy, which Wang Wu recognized as "born knowledge," affirming his "chosen one" status as a Void Magic Root possessor. Although she jokingly declared his talent "bad" and only "barely deserving" of inheriting her skills, she then posed a fundamental question: what was his purpose in cultivation?
Wang Lu offered several humorous and ambitious answers, such as "to be arrogant, cool, domineering, and flashy" (interpreted as "to bully people"), "to ascend to Immortals," and "for longevity," all of which Wang Wu dismissed, citing examples like the 3,900-year-old Antarctic Immortal Weng who only does academic research. She finally revealed the core principle of cultivation: "no fear of hardship, no giving up when facing difficulties, and being brazen (shameless)."
Wang Lu internally remained skeptical of his unreliable new Master, feeling her teachings were improvised. Meanwhile, Zhu Qin met with a mysterious individual in black, who had helped him become an inner disciple. In return, Zhu Qin was tasked with gathering information on someone's whereabouts. The one in black warned Zhu Qin against any tricks, reminding him that they could bestow everything upon him but also make him lose everything if he disobeyed. Zhu Qin obediently agreed.
Shortly after, Zhu Qin received an implied communication (likely via a magical device or telepathy) from Wen Bao, summoning him to the inner sect training with Elder Liu Xian. Under the moonlight, Wang Wu sat alone, clutching a bracelet and drinking, visibly grieving. The sect leader found her and acknowledged her continued sorrow over her Senior Brother, Ouyang Shang, whom she had been searching for across Kyushu for over a century.
He urged her to let go but also impressed upon her the importance of training Wang Lu. He explained that eighteen years prior, a "stellar catastrophe" caused by a comet had ironically ushered in a "golden age of cultivation" for Kyushu, and Wang Lu was the most brilliant "star" of this generation.
Although Wang Wu jokingly claimed she accepted Wang Lu because she wanted a "young, strong boy to warm her bed," the sect leader implicitly affirmed that it was due to Wang Lu sharing the same rare Void Magic Root as her Senior Brother. She then caught Wang Lu, who had been eavesdropping, and reaffirmed her commitment to train him well, stating that the Lingjian sect kept its promises and their serious training would begin tomorrow. Wang Lu readily accepted.
Episode 5 Recap
Over the past two years, Wang Lu excelled as Master Wang Wu's Successor Disciple. His intelligence set him apart in classes, earning him the nickname "Lingjian Academic Ace" among his peers. He completed all his courses, including math, foreign languages, history, etiquette, and even embroidery, with top marks, becoming a legendary figure within the Lingjian sect. Meanwhile, Hai Yunfan, an outer disciple, secretly entered the forbidden Scripture library with Wang Lu's assistance.
Wang Lu used an Invisible Charm to ensure they wouldn't be seen. Hai Yunfan diligently studied, particularly focusing on formations and charms, mastering the 3rd Level Skill "Butterfly Shadowing" after observing it just once. Despite his remarkable talent in these areas, Hai Yunfan admitted he still struggled with attack and recovery skills. In stark contrast to Hai Yunfan's progress, Wang Lu, despite possessing the fabled Void Magic Root, found himself unable to cultivate any magic.
No matter how earnestly he studied, he could not advance. His master, Master Wang Wu, seemingly neglected his cultivation, spending her time drinking and only instructing him to run and bathe. She even used his salary and allowances to buy wine, completely shattering Wang Lu's initial fantasies of immortal cultivation. Facing his lack of martial power and anticipating revenge from the Ninth Prince, Wang Lu resolved to rely on his wit.
As expected, Zhu Qin and Wang Zhong emerged from their two-year seclusion and immediately sought out Wang Lu. Wang Zhong presented a Heaven Guarding Hammer, a magic item he claimed he and Zhu Qin had crafted during their closed training, offering it to Wang Lu for self-defense while subtly mocking his lack of practical skills. Unimpressed, Wang Lu scornfully remarked, "Did you two mess up your brains in inner sect training?
After two years of studying, you came up with this garbage? How come the inner sect teaching level is so bad?" He then produced his own, superior Heaven Guarding Hammer and shattered Wang Zhong's with a single strike. Zhu Qin and Wang Zhong were left speechless and humiliated, especially upon learning of Wang Lu's perfect scores in all his courses, including equipment maintenance. Just then, Master Hua Yun appeared, providing a timely distraction.
She used an illusion to recount the millennial bloodbath, a brutal war that had raged for nine centuries. She explained that a century ago, the Golden Generation of the Lingjian sect, led by Senior brother Ouyang Shang, had sacrificed nearly all their lives to defeat the last demon coalition army, thus ending the ancient conflict and ushering in the current era of peace.
As the bells tolled, all members of the Lingjian sect paid their respects to the fallen heroes commemorated by a monument. Under the cover of a dark and windy night, Zhu Qin re-established contact with the mysterious one in black who had previously assisted him.
The one in black acknowledged that the Stellar Valley, where Zhu Qin had been in seclusion, was a forbidden zone with a Stellar Formation that blocked all spiritual energy fluctuations, explaining the two-year delay in communication. He revealed that their superiors were impatient and would now resort to extreme measures, taking action and attacking proactively, requiring Zhu Qin's full cooperation. Zhu Qin pledged to do his utmost, aware that success would bring him glory, but failure would invite ruthless retribution.
Later, Zhu Qin and his companions found Wang Lu and Hai Yunfan studying in the Scripture library. Recognizing Hai Yunfan as an outer disciple in a restricted area, Zhu Qin threatened to report them, which would result in severe punishment for both. He then proposed a challenge: a fair two-on-two duel at the back training field that afternoon, with him and Wang Zhong facing Wang Lu and Hai Yunfan. No matter the outcome, all past offenses would be forgiven.
Despite Hai Yunfan's concern about Wang Lu's inability to use magic, Wang Lu confidently accepted, stating he would disable the monitoring formations and take full responsibility for any repercussions. At the designated dueling ground, Wang Zhong boastfully declared his intention to defeat Wang Lu and send him back to a mundane life. Unfazed, Wang Lu waited for Wang Zhong to make his move, then produced a small hamster.
Wang Lu reminded him of a childhood incident: when he was nine, he failed to steal sweet potatoes and was cornered by three hamsters on a tree for two hours, eventually wetting his pants. Wang Zhong, who had a deep-seated fear of rodents from childhood, immediately turned pale and was rendered incapable of fighting. Wang Lu had won the first round through clever tactics rather than force.
As Hai Yunfan prepared to face Zhu Qin, an unknown assailant suddenly ambushed him from behind. Wang Lu, acting swiftly, intercepted the attacker. Despite his lack of magical abilities, he skillfully defeated the person in close combat. The ambusher fell unconscious, wounded by his own dagger. The group immediately panicked, knowing that engaging in private brawls violated sect rules and reporting the incident would lead to punishment for everyone involved.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Zhu Qin quickly dispatched Wang Zhong to Tongming Peak's Lingxi Pond to summon Liuli, a Successor Disciple. Liuli arrived, her attention fixated on the "token"—a corn cob. She immediately began aggressively questioning Wang Lu, demanding he confess his guilt and surrender to the Law Enforcement Elder.
After some probing, Wang Lu and Hai Yunfan realized that Liuli was incredibly naive and had been manipulated by Zhu Qin, who promised her sweet corn if she recited specific accusations. To appease the food-obsessed Liuli, Wang Lu offered her popcorn, quickly winning her over and securing her friendship. However, before Liuli could attend to the injured assailant, the man, upon being lifted by Wang Lu, suddenly vomited blood and died.
Everyone present instantly concluded that Wang Lu was the murderer. Just as the situation escalated, Master Ao Guanhai, the Seventh Elder, arrived. Surprisingly, Liuli, who had been fiercely attacking Wang Lu moments earlier, completely forgot the reason for her anger. Wang Lu seized this opportunity to assert his sincerity. Master Ao Guanhai took Zhu Qin, Wang Zhong, and Hai Yunfan as witnesses, ordering Wang Lu and Liuli to await their punishment at the monument.
As they awaited judgment, Wang Lu engaged the innocent Liuli in conversation. With a little prodding, she unwittingly revealed a secret about Master Ao Guanhai: he and his parents had migrated from the West Continent. He had become lost and was almost abducted before Master Wang Wu discovered him, sensing his immense spiritual energy, and brought him into the Lingjian sect. Liuli realized her blunder only after divulging the information.
Meanwhile, before the assembled elders, Wang Zhong fabricated a story, falsely accusing Wang Lu of killing the outer disciple. Zhu Qin then subtly reinforced Wang Zhong's narrative, carefully choosing his words to imply Wang Lu's guilt without making direct accusations. The elders seemed convinced by their testimonies. It was at this critical moment that Master Wang Wu, Wang Lu's master and the Fifth Elder, intervened. As Wang Lu's Successor Disciple, she was determined to uncover the truth. She declared confidently that as long as the body remained, the truth could certainly be uncovered through a thorough investigation.
Episode 6 Recap
After the incident where Wang Lu was accused of murder, the Lingjian sect elders examined the deceased's body. They discovered a very shallow wound on the left shoulder, consistent with the deceased's own dagger which Wang Lu had used in a hurry. The actual cause of death was not the wound itself, but the highly potent and rare Nine Beast Frost poison found on the dagger.
The body was deeply poisoned with black marks on the skin, indicating this substance, which is refined over three years using nine kinds of deadly poisons and is extremely valuable and not easily obtainable. The unique bone structure and worn teeth and hands of the deceased led them to conclude that he was not a member of the Lingjian sect.
This immediately brought to mind the "men of sacrifice" from the Beirong region – infants abducted, their features destroyed, and trained for decades in assassination. These "men of sacrifice" were known to never survive a failed mission. Fearing that more such assassins might be lurking on the mountain, the elders decided against punishing or rewarding Wang Lu, opting instead to observe quietly and avoid alerting any potential hidden threats.
Seventh Elder, Ao Guanhai, who felt deeply indebted to Wang Wu for bringing him back to the sect, believed that Wang Wu's disciple was his own and wished to make amends for nearly punishing Wang Lu. Wang Wu, however, abruptly left the elders' meeting, claiming an urgent matter on the mountain. Ao Guanhai later brought Wang Lu to Non-Phase Peak, only to find Wang Wu leisurely playing mahjong with Feng Ling.
Despite others' attempts to intervene, Wang Wu declared that Wang Lu must face Liu Li xian in a public contest, regardless of life or death, with the loser being expelled from the sect. She then used a spiritual transmission to threaten Wang Lu, revealing that she knew about Hai Yunfan secretly entering the Scripture Library. Under this duress, Wang Lu reluctantly agreed to the duel. Wang Wu then publicly announced the contest to all disciples.
The news created a stir as Liu Li xian was a true disciple at the Void Core stage, while Wang Lu, known for his inability to learn magic and still only in the Body Forging Stage after two years, seemed to face an impossible challenge. Wang Lu, having accumulated frustration from Wang Wu's lack of guidance, asked for spiritual artifacts to aid him in the contest. When Wang Wu dismissively refused, his patience snapped.
He accused her of trying to get rid of him from the start, from attempting to take his Xiaoyun coin to framing him with the sect leader's golden seal. He expressed his disappointment that for two years, she had done nothing but make him take baths, teaching him no martial arts. He echoed the Third Elder's criticism, calling Wang Wu "a disgrace to Lingjian" for her misconduct, neglect of duty, and indulgence in alcohol.
Wang Lu stormed off, convinced that Wang Wu wanted Liu Li xian to defeat him so she could be rid of him as a burden. Wang Wu, after his departure, clutched her chest in pain, unseen by Wang Lu. As Wang Lu began packing his belongings, intent on leaving, Feng Ling, the Innkeeper, unexpectedly appeared. She admitted that Wang Wu had instructed her to teach Wang Lu ordinary martial arts.
Observing Wang Lu, Feng Ling noted that the medicated baths Wang Wu had made him take for the past two years were finally showing effects. Feng Ling revealed that Wang Wu's strategy was purposeful: just as Wang Wu herself had grown stronger by constantly challenging and getting beaten while cultivating the Wuxiang Sword Bone, she intended for Liu Li xian to "open Wang Lu's meridians" through this duel.
Feng Ling then asked Wang Wu if she could endure the upcoming full moon night, but Wang Wu merely deflected, pretending to be unconcerned, hinting at something she wished to conceal. Later, while Wang Lu waited for Feng Ling, Hai Yunfan approached him, concerned. Knowing Wang Lu wasn't impulsive and that victory against Liu Li xian was almost impossible, Hai Yunfan suspected Wang Lu had accepted the challenge for his sake.
However, Wang Lu adamantly denied this, claiming he had bet with Wang Wu for a spiritual treasure. Seeing Hai Yunfan's concern, Feng Ling decided to keep him as Wang Lu's training partner for the Whirling technique. Feng Ling explained that mastering Whirling, a flexible footwork for both offense and defense, required breaking through four realms: "Heaven and Earth in mind," "Sun and Moon in mind," "Self in mind," and "No Self in mind."
They practiced diligently, with Wang Lu's high comprehension allowing him to achieve basic proficiency in Whirling in just half a day. Wang Lu, determined to win with strategy rather than raw power, began to investigate Liu Li xian's weaknesses. He discovered that despite her age, Liu Li xian was naive and developmentally slow, possessing several exploitable vulnerabilities. For instance, her digestive system was sensitive, she was self-conscious about hair loss, and extremely sensitive about her waistline.
Wang Lu knew that "the best victory is to win without fighting," and hoped to use these weaknesses to his advantage. The next day, Wang Lu convinced a hesitant Hai Yunfan to accompany him down the mountain, promising to protect him. They followed Liu Li xian, almost being discovered, but found that Zhu Qin and Wang Zhong were also tailing her and were caught first. To smooth things over, Zhu Qin offered to treat Liu Li xian to a meal.
Unbeknownst to Zhu Qin, Wang Lu had already placed a "Dongshi charm" on him. This charm, when paired with a "Xishi charm" (which Wang Lu had on himself), forced the wearer of the Dongshi charm to mimic the actions and words of the Xishi charm wearer. As Liu Li xian ate, Wang Lu loudly commented on how fat she was and advised her to lose weight, knowing this was one of her sensitive spots.
Zhu Qin, under the influence of the charm, repeated Wang Lu's words, infuriating Liu Li xian, who then violently flipped the table. In the midst of the chaos, Wang Lu suddenly sensed the presence of an assassin. In a moment of urgency, he shouted at Zhu Qin to use his "Breaking Eye."
Episode 7 Recap
The episode begins as Liu Li xian violently beats Zhu Qin, seemingly as a result of a prank orchestrated by Wang Lu. Amidst the chaos, assassins launch a surprise attack, showering the restaurant with arrows. Wang Lu swiftly pulls Wang Zhong out of harm's way, then urges Zhu Qin to activate his Breaking Eye. Zhu Qin complies, dispelling the illusion cast by the attackers. However, several figures in black then shatter the windows, trapping the group inside.
Curiously, they use the Six Lights Prison to immobilize Hai Yunfan. Sensing the urgency, Liu Li xian steps forward, confronting the assassins alone and ordering Wang Lu and the others to flee. As they escape, Wang Lu presses Hai Yunfan for answers. He reveals his suspicion that Hai Yunfan is from Junhuang Mountain, having recognized the Six Lights Prison as a unique technique of that sect.
Wang Lu deduces that Hai Yunfan must be a person of considerable importance, perhaps a prince, as the assassins sought to capture him alive rather than kill him. Hai Yunfan confirms his identity as the second prince of Junhuang Mountain, but Wang Lu immediately cuts him off, stating that he will not pry into Hai Yunfan's past and will keep his secret, valuing their bond as brothers above all.
Deeply moved by Wang Lu's loyalty, Hai Yunfan expresses concern for Wang Lu's upcoming competition against Liu Li xian, fearing for his safety despite Wang Lu's mastery of Whirling. He then entrusts Wang Lu with a Teleport Charm, a valuable item he stole from Junhuang Mountain, urging him to use it as a last resort.
Wang Lu tests the charm, likening it to an "At Will Door," then jokingly scolds Hai Yunfan for not using it earlier during the tryouts, which led to Wang Lu falling into a sand pit. That night, Zhu Qin secretly meets with a mysterious individual. Zhu Qin apologizes for the failed assassination attempt, explaining that he was forced to use Breaking Eye to avoid exposing himself.
The mysterious figure, who orchestrated the attack, is furious, accusing Zhu Qin of betraying him and warning him that the next day's competition is his last chance to prove his worth, threatening dire consequences if he fails again. The next day, Zhu Qin approaches Liu Li xian with an array of desserts, attempting to manipulate her before the competition.
He questions her eating habits, implying it might hinder her, but Liu Li xian dismisses his concerns, stating her master advised her to eat for strength and threatens to eat Zhu Qin if he keeps bothering her. Zhu Qin tries to turn her against Wang Lu, reminding her of his cunning nature and how he used her as a human shield during the previous day's attack.
Liu Li xian, however, defends Wang Lu, explaining her master taught her that speaking ill of someone behind their back is wicked. She also notes that Wang Lu is handsome, implying his words might be right. Exasperated by Zhu Qin's incessant nagging, Liu Li xian calls him annoying and, after momentarily leaving and then returning to grab the desserts, departs for good. The grand competition begins.
Wang Wu, having placed a significant bet on Wang Lu's victory, pressures him to win. Before the fight, Wang Lu attempts to exploit a loophole, asking if both contestants falling off the stage simultaneously would count as his win. While the Master officiating initially agrees, another Elder, Master Fang, quickly intervenes, adding a rule that voluntarily jumping off the stage does not count, recognizing Wang Lu's cunning.
Wang Lu initiates the fight with Whirling, aiming to exhaust Liu Li xian by exploiting her "weakness" of indigestion. However, Liu Li xian proves her superior skill, swiftly finding a flaw in his movements and landing a forceful punch. Undeterred, Wang Lu shifts tactics, targeting Liu Li xian's sensitive waistline and even pulling her hair, which infuriates her. Enraged, Liu Li xian loses control and unleashes her ultimate move, the Flaming Sword.
As the situation turns critical, Wang Wu prepares to intervene, but Wang Lu, seizing the moment, uses the Teleport Charm. He attaches it to the entire stage, teleporting both himself and Liu Li xian off the platform simultaneously. This clever maneuver, in accordance with the rules, grants Wang Lu a surprising victory. Despite his severe injuries, Wang Lu's body shows remarkable resilience, a testament to the two years of mysterious herbal baths Wang Wu had made him take.
As Wang Lu recovers, Wang Wu boasts about her efforts, revealing she made him take herbal baths for two years to strengthen his weak physique, expecting him to master body cultivation by the next year. Wang Lu initially dismisses her efforts as merely a ploy for his gratitude, even mocking her "fake sword" and the "hired ghost" he thought she used to impress him. However, Feng Ling visits Wang Lu and clarifies the truth.
She explains that his rapid recovery is indeed due to Wang Wu's dedicated efforts and that the "ghost" he encountered was a dangerous wandering soul, attracted by his Void Magic Root. Feng Ling warns that such souls can cause madness or even soul dispersion, revealing that Wang Wu's Bamboo Sword, while potent against evil spirits, results in mutual destruction when used against wandering souls. Realizing Wang Wu had genuinely risked her life to save him, Wang Lu feels remorse.
Feng Ling further explains that Wang Wu's seemingly harsh actions, including the competition with Liu Li xian and the painful baths, were all part of a meticulous plan to help him cultivate Wuxiang Sword Bone. This legendary martial art, once mastered, grants invincibility, but its rigorous training demands the practitioner be severely injured repeatedly without their knowledge. Wang Lu now understands his master's challenging methods were calculated for his growth.
He later discovers that Wuxiang Sword Bone was created by Lingjian Sect's former "Golden disciple," Ouyang Shang, and that Wang Wu modified it, making it accessible to cultivators at the Foundation Building stage, a crucial adaptation for his Void Magic Root which otherwise hinders spiritual energy retention. When Wang Lu eagerly asks when he can formally begin cultivation, Wang Wu, lamenting her financial woes due to the exorbitant cost of his herbal baths, states it will take ten years.
Later, Wang Lu, now understanding the benefits of his herbal baths, enthusiastically invites Hai Yunfan to join him. Moments after entering the bath, Hai Yunfan faints. Wang Lu, concerned, offers to have Wang Wu examine him. Hai Yunfan, upon regaining consciousness, explains that the "Marrow Cleansing Bath" specially formulated by Master Wang, activated a dormant restriction placed on him during his three years of imprisonment in Junhuang Mountain.
This dangerous sealing art caused him excruciating pain as it resisted the bath's spiritual energy. Wang Lu is surprised by Hai Yunfan's stoic endurance. Hai Yunfan reveals he kept the restriction a secret from everyone else in the sect, including Master Hua Yun. While it hasn't affected his regular training, he worries it might prevent him from learning Non-Phase Peak's martial arts.
Wang Lu reassures him and promises to research a solution in the Scripture Library, advising Hai Yunfan to remain within the mountain's safety for now. With Wang Lu having successfully cultivated Wuxiang Sword Bone, Wang Wu finally agrees to systematically teach him the Non-Phase Method. She proudly declares her self-created Non-Phase Method as a unique secret art, emphasizing that only self-created martial arts truly belong to oneself.
Wang Lu acknowledges her philosophy, then teasingly points out that she is the only Golden Core stage cultivator in the entire Lingjian Sect. Wang Wu retorts that her "98-modified" Non-Phase Method is now powerful enough to protect his unique Void Magic Root, and asks if he wants to learn it, to which Wang Lu eagerly agrees.
Episode 8 Recap
Wang Wu began systematically teaching Wang Lu the Non-Phase Method, a unique cultivation technique she had developed. She explained that unlike other martial arts, the Non-Phase Method could only be truly mastered through constant physical impact. Wang Lu, who had already endured two years of Wang Wu's seemingly arbitrary beatings, was now subjected to continuous, intense pummeling, no matter the time or place.
Wang Wu revealed that she herself had undergone similar training, actively seeking out the sect leader for beatings, a relentless pursuit that even the leader found unbearable. Seeking refuge, Wang Lu fled to Feng Ling's inn, only to discover that Feng Ling had been bribed by Wang Wu to continue his "training" there. Months of relentless battering from both Wang Wu and Feng Ling passed.
During a healing session, Hai Yunfan observed that Wang Lu's injuries, once severe, were now merely superficial, no longer affecting his bones or tendons. Wang Wu appeared, announcing that Wang Lu's Non-Phase Sword Bone had reached a bottleneck, signifying its final stage before he could begin absorbing nimbuses. To further his cultivation, large quantities of Flaming Fruit and Spirit Stones were required. However, Flaming Fruit was prohibitively expensive, costing three thousand Spirit Stones per fruit.
Wang Wu then revealed a plan to acquire them from Misty Peak, the Lingjian sect's hidden resource stronghold, normally inaccessible even to the sect leader. Misty Peak was soon to host the Qingyun test, and Wang Wu urged Wang Lu to participate and win, enabling her to produce sufficient Non-Phase Strengthening Bone Pills and Strengthening Bone Powder for his accelerated training. Wang Lu, however, was not yet at the required absorbing nimbuses Level Six to participate.
He proposed a bold idea: he would bring Hai Yunfan along, not only to secure Flaming Fruit but also to help Hai Yunfan earn enough sect points to become an inner disciple. Hai Yunfan initially hesitated, citing his status as an outer disciple and the strict entry requirements. Wang Lu countered, reminding him of the mysterious deaths within the sect and asserting that Junhuang Mountain had spies among them who would undoubtedly act during the Qingyun test.
He intended to use Wang Wu's "sword" to expose these hidden enemies, making it an exciting endeavor. Wang Lu approached Yue Yun, the senior disciple responsible for test registrations. After a subtle flattering opening, Wang Lu inquired about the Qingyun test. Yue Yun politely explained that only disciples at absorbing nimbuses Level Six or higher could participate, citing institutional rules and the protective barriers of Qingyun Peak that would block unapproved entrants.
Wang Lu pointed out his victory over the already Level Six Liu Li xian, subtly questioning Yue Yun’s judgment or the Non-Phase Method’s power. When Yue Yun insisted on procedure, Wang Lu produced an Elder's golden seal, which granted free passage anywhere within the Lingjian sect. With this, Yue Yun had no choice but to register Wang Lu.
To Yue Yun's astonishment, Wang Lu then registered Hai Yunfan, claiming him as his "Magic Pet," leading to a humorous but unanswerable debate about the definition of a "Magic Pet" and whether humans could qualify. Yue Yun, unable to logically refute Wang Lu, grudgingly accepted, later reporting the outrageous situation to the sect leader, who to everyone's surprise, tacitly approved. News of Wang Lu and Hai Yunfan's unprecedented entry into the Qingyun test spread, sparking discontent among the other disciples.
Upon hearing this, Zhu Qin immediately used a transmission spell to inform the one in black, emphasizing that this was an "excellent opportunity" to strike. The one in black, threatening severe consequences if they failed again, ordered his subordinates to ensure success. The five-day Qingyun test officially began. Participants were randomly teleported into Qingyun Peak.
The objective was to journey from Moon Vale to Green Dragon Gorge and return via Lotus Lake, with the team finding the Flaming Fruit first declared the winner. Each participant was also given a Help Charm to summon an Elder in case of extreme danger. As Yue Yun led Wang Lu's team, he informed them they would need to forage for their own food.
Wang Lu, boasting an "A+" in Professional Herbology, confidently offered to let his teammates pick first, promising to identify anything they found, even if it was "unwanted." Meanwhile, Zhu Qin's team, aiming to get ahead, pressed on. Along the way, two female disciples from Wang Lu's team, who had wandered off to gather food, were ensnared by poisonous Ghost Vines. Zhu Qin's team, hearing their cries for help, bravely intervened.
Zhu Qin instructed the ensnared disciples to relax, which lessened the vine's grip, allowing his team to free them. The rescued disciples were deeply touched by Zhu Qin's "generosity," especially given their competitive relationship. Zhu Qin attempted to exploit the situation by subtly maligning Wang Lu as selfish and uncaring. However, Wang Lu, who had observed the entire situation, used a Speaking Flower to expose Zhu Qin's scheme, revealing that Zhu Qin had deliberately orchestrated the "rescue" to appear heroic.
Trapped by his own words, Zhu Qin was then coerced by Wang Lu into preparing dinner for everyone. Later that night, Wang Lu discussed his suspicions with Hai Yunfan. He had noticed a pattern: Zhu Qin always appeared whenever the one in black was involved. Wang Lu predicted that Zhu Qin would surely make a move. Later, Zhu Qin was caught attempting to tamper with Hai Yunfan's tent.
This confirmed to Wang Lu and Hai Yunfan that Zhu Qin was indeed Junhuang Mountain's hidden spy within the Lingjian sect. Separately, Wang Lu encountered Wang Zhong and gently advised him to let go of past grievances and not burden himself unnecessarily. The following morning, Hai Yunfan discovered the Flaming Fruit at the entrance of their campsite, seemingly growing overnight.
Realizing that extracting it would prematurely end the test and prevent them from catching the spy, Wang Lu quickly devised a plan. He instructed Hai Yunfan to hide the Flaming Fruit, while he would distract the other teams. Wang Zhong, who had secretly lit a sleeping incense the night before to gain an advantage in the search, was surprised to find Wang Lu and Hai Yunfan already up.
Wang Lu, however, bluffed, claiming his team had been awake, cleaned, and had even had tea before finding the other teams still asleep. With the other teams distracted and confused, Wang Lu successfully stalled them, allowing Hai Yunfan to conceal the Flaming Fruit and prolong the test.
Episode 9 Recap
Wang Lu successfully distracted the other students, allowing Hai Yunfan enough time to hide the Flaming Fruit near the campsite. However, Wang Zhong soon arrived and confronted Hai Yunfan, who attempted to deflect suspicion with an absurd excuse about finding a "feng shui" spot for personal relief, claiming it would bring good fortune to his journey.
Wang Zhong, unconvinced and aware of Wang Lu's previous attempts to deter them, pressed Hai Yunfan, asserting that he and Wang Lu had found the Flaming Fruit. Zhu Qin then appeared, joining Wang Zhong in demanding the fruit. Despite Wang Lu and Hai Yunfan's initial denials, the Flaming Fruit unexpectedly revealed itself. With the Flaming Fruit visible, a dispute erupted among the students, threatening to escalate into a brawl.
Yue Yun intervened, suggesting a combat trial to determine who would claim the fruit. They agreed to a series of one-on-one duels in a crossover match, with the last team standing winning the right to take the Flaming Fruit. As the combat trial began, Wang Zhong, seizing an opportunity, tried to sneak away to pick the Flaming Fruit. Before he could reach it, he was engulfed by a dark, boundless space.
Inside, he encountered Yue Yun, and they realized their summoning charms were missing. Soon, all the other entrants were drawn into this strange, dark realm and subsequently knocked unconscious by unseen figures. Hai Yunfan awoke to an attack by a man-in-black. He managed to trap the assailant with a Six Lights Prison, and during their brief exchange, he learned that the man-in-black and others were following Hai Tiankuo's orders to eliminate him.
The man-in-black then realized Hai Yunfan was the son of General Hai Zheng, the rightful General of Junhuang Mountain. Suddenly, Master Xu, a Junhuang Mountain elder, appeared, swiftly killing the first man-in-black. Master Xu declared his actions were for Junhuang Mountain, despite Hai Yunfan being a legitimate prince. As Master Xu moved to kill Hai Yunfan, Wang Lu arrived.
Having anticipated their presence due to a signal from Zhu Qin earlier, Wang Lu activated a summoning charm, calling forth his master, Wang Wu. Unbeknownst to Master Xu, Wang Lu's artifact broadcasted their conversation to the entire Lingjian Sect. Although Master Xu was at the Stage of Nascent Soul and Wang Wu was only at Golden Pill, Wang Wu did not back down. She demanded 10 billion Spirit Stones for Hai Yunfan's life, taunting Master Xu.
Hearing Wang Wu's voice and the implications of her presence, Elder Liu Xian and Hua Yun, concerned that Wang Wu might steal the numerous Flaming Fruits and other treasures from Qingyun Peak, rushed to the scene. Just as the conflict escalated, Hai Tiankuo appeared. He swiftly executed Master Xu and his accompanying men-in-black for their unauthorized abandonment of their posts, declaring that Junhuang Mountain's military laws were absolute.
Hai Yunfan, seeing the murderer of his family, pursued Hai Tiankuo relentlessly, but he was no match for him. As Hai Tiankuo prepared to strike a fatal blow, Liu Xian and Hua Yun arrived, engaging Hai Tiankuo in battle. When they found themselves at a disadvantage, Wang Wu joined them, and together they formed the Three-talent Formation.
Seeing this, Hai Tiankuo scoffed, telling Hai Yunfan that he would never be able to harm him, even if he cultivated for another ten thousand years. With that, Hai Tiankuo retreated. After returning from Qingyun Peak, the elders gathered the entrants. Elder Fang He confronted Wang Lu, revealing that Wang Lu had stolen Yue Yun's summoning charm.
Fang He accused Wang Lu of attempting to achieve two goals: stealing the Flaming Fruits from Qingyun Peak and using the summoning charm to call Wang Wu to resolve Hai Yunfan's crisis. He emphasized that the elders were fully aware of Junhuang Mountain's movements and had been observing them, intending to expose the mastermind behind the black-clad figures. Wang Lu's impulsive actions had nearly led to disastrous consequences for Hai Yunfan.
Wang Lu admitted his misjudgment and offered no further excuses. As the meeting concluded, the Leader called out Zhu Qin, stating that his betrayal of the sect and attempt to harm fellow disciples would result in expulsion according to the Lingjian Sect's laws. Zhu Qin immediately knelt and confessed, tearfully explaining that Master Xu had threatened his parents' lives.
Wang Lu, however, interceded on Zhu Qin's behalf, arguing that Zhu Qin was temporarily misguided due to filial piety and that, given their sect's principle of inclusiveness, allowing him to reform might be a better outcome. The elders agreed, deciding to strip Zhu Qin of all his cultivation, forcing him to start anew as a severe lesson for all disciples to uphold loyalty and mutual trust.
Meanwhile, Wang Wu, having successfully absconded with thousands of Flaming Fruits, countless ginsengs, and hundreds of the finest reishi from Qingyun Peak, had feigned chasing Hai Tiankuo and vanished. The elders lamented her usual antics but acknowledged her loyalty in principle. The elders then discussed Hai Tiankuo's power, deducing that he had reached the Stage of Disassembling.
The Leader assured the other elders that the sect would protect Hai Yunfan, affirming that Lingjian Sect would not be intimidated by Junhuang Mountain and was capable of fighting a Stage of Disassembling cultivator. Hai Yunfan, recovering from his injuries, was deeply distraught by his inability to defeat Hai Tiankuo, constantly reliving his brother's taunts about his weak cultivation. This emotional wound lingered, making it difficult for him to sleep.
Wang Lu attempted to comfort and counsel him, bringing him handmade goodies and Cold Spring Liquor, which Wang Lu had secretly taken from Wang Wu's stash, but Hai Yunfan remained in despair, ultimately pushing Wang Lu out of his room. Despite this, Wang Lu patiently waited outside Hai Yunfan's door in the rain, determined to help his friend overcome his inner demons.
Episode 10 Recap
Wang Lu, troubled by Hai Yunfan's lingering sadness, sought advice from Feng Ling, whose vibrant personality contrasted sharply with Hai Yunfan's withdrawn state. Feng Ling suggested that true sincerity was the key to unlocking Hai Yunfan's heart. Inspired, Wang Lu decided to employ a dramatic display of heartfelt apology, leading to the scene of him waiting in the rain.
He approached Hai Yunfan, who was still isolated, and sincerely apologized for his previous recklessness, which had led to Hai Yunfan's injury. Wang Lu confessed that he understood Hai Yunfan's despair, likening it to his own hopelessness when he discovered his Void Magic Root two years prior. He reminded Hai Yunfan that he had been there for Wang Lu, offering support and encouragement on his own path of cultivation.
Now, Wang Lu would reciprocate by standing with Hai Yunfan, even in the pouring rain, vowing not to leave until Hai Yunfan emerged from his despair, assuring him he was not alone. Initially moved, Hai Yunfan soon realized it was a calculated act. Wang Lu admitted he had asked Feng Ling how to open Hai Yunfan's heart, and she had suggested "sincerity," leading to what Wang Lu called his "sincere performance." Annoyed, Hai Yunfan chased Wang Lu through the rain.
During their chase and playful fight, Wang Lu noticed a distinct symbol on the back of Hai Yunfan’s neck. Hai Yunfan revealed it was the emblem of Junhuang Mountain, a military-focused sect starkly different from Lingjian Sect. He explained his father, Hai Zheng, was the former Great General of Junhuang Mountain, and his mother, Lin Xingchen, was renowned as the mountain’s most beautiful woman.
Hai Yunfan always felt overshadowed by his older brother, Hai Tiankuo, who was considered an once-in-a-millennium genius, unlike himself. He recalled a time as a child when he felt like a burden, constantly comparing himself to his brother's exceptional talents in military arts. His family life shattered when he returned home one day to a horrific scene: his parents brutally murdered. To his shock, Hai Tiankuo, his beloved brother, appeared, revealing his true nature as a demon.
Hai Tiankuo confessed to the murders, stating he couldn't let their parents live after they discovered his secret. Overwhelmed and helpless, Hai Yunfan was easily subdued by his brother, who placed a powerful Restriction on him. He awoke to find himself sealed in his room, unable to call for help, as Hai Tiankuo had placed a seal there.
Hai Tiankuo, now the new Great General, had fabricated a story about a demon attack and Hai Yunfan's "brain injury" from the shock, using it to seize power and preserve his image. Hai Tiankuo kept Hai Yunfan alive to gain a reputation for fraternal affection, but ensured he could never leave. Hai Yunfan, furious and heartbroken, vowed vengeance, promising to make Hai Tiankuo pay with blood one day.
He spent three years imprisoned until, two years ago, when Hai Tiankuo was in seclusion for cultivation, a loyal aide of his father helped him escape. He then hid as an outer disciple at Lingjian Sect, only to be found again by Junhuang Mountain's forces. He elaborated that Hai Tiankuo was a demon refined from a withered bone, a rare entity that still occasionally caused trouble despite most demons being wiped out in the millennial bloodbath.
Hai Yunfan confessed that with Hai Tiankuo's power and influence, no one would believe his accusations alone. Understanding the grave burden Hai Yunfan carried, Wang Lu refused to abandon him, acknowledging that being with Hai Yunfan always involved danger. He invoked the "four 'togethers' of best friends" – studying, fighting, getting injured, and sharing spoils together – and boldly declared that once his Wuxiang Sword Bone reached full mastery, he would assist Hai Yunfan in attacking and leveling Junhuang Mountain.
Hai Yunfan was deeply moved by Wang Lu's unwavering loyalty, excusing his tears as due to the strong wind. Hai Yunfan then observed that Wang Lu's Wuxiang Sword Art seemed to require being hit to improve, a puzzling cultivation method. He noted that his own magic attacks had become ineffective against Wang Lu, who now needed a stronger opponent.
Hai Yunfan suggested Senior Sister Liu Li, whose sword qi was incredibly sharp, but Wang Lu quickly dismissed the idea, fearing her immense power. Just then, Wen Bao arrived, loudly calling for Wang Lu. Impressed by Wang Lu's recent combat prowess, particularly his ability to contend with Senior Sister Liu Li and protect Senior Sister Yue Xinyao, Wen Bao humbly requested Wang Lu's guidance in his cultivation.
He revealed his earnest desire to improve so he could potentially team up with Senior Sister Yue Xinyao on future excursions. Noticing Wen Bao's blush at Yue Xinyao's name, Wang Lu agreed to take him on as a junior, on the condition that Wen Bao would obey him as his "big brother." The next morning, they began their training in the back mountains.
Wang Lu immediately provoked Wen Bao with harsh insults, calling him a "wimp" and a "pig" and questioning his worth as an inner disciple. Wen Bao, initially trying to restrain himself, was eventually driven to explosive anger by Wang Lu's relentless taunts, especially when Wang Lu extended his insults to Wen Bao's father. Wen Bao, whose path was that of a warrior requiring rage points for power, unleashed the true power of his Darksteel Sword Art, repeatedly striking Wang Lu.
This intense pummeling, though brutal, successfully ignited the latent power of the Red Fruits within Wang Lu. His resilience grew dramatically, and his body began to self-repair at an astonishing rate. Wang Lu realized he had reached the eighth level of the Wuxiang Sword Bone. However, the strain of this breakthrough was too much, and Wang Lu collapsed, nearly succumbing to Qi deviation. He woke up startled in Feng Ling's room.
Feng Ling explained that his Wuxiang Sword Bone had reached the ninth level, a critical and dangerous breakthrough stage where a single mistake could lead to his demise. Wang Lu, initially annoyed at his master Wang Wu for not warning him, was then told by Feng Ling that Wang Wu had actually prepared for this.
Wang Wu had placed a guardian charm in his room, set to summon Feng Ling immediately if Wang Lu faced any danger, proving her genuine care despite her notorious character. Feng Ling further revealed that Wang Wu's trip to Junhuang Mountain was not merely to escape the sect leader's nagging, but to confront Hai Tiankuo on Wang Lu's behalf. Wang Lu, however, was quick to temper Feng Ling's idealism.
Knowing his master's avarice, he confidently predicted that Wang Wu was primarily at Junhuang Mountain to resell the hundreds of Red Fruits he had helped her plunder from Qingyun Peak, keeping only seven for him. He imagined her manipulative sales tactics, feigning pity to sell at exorbitant prices (1. 5 times the original price) while pretending to offer discounts.
At Junhuang Mountain, Wang Wu indeed confronted Hai Tiankuo, threatening to "wash Junhuang Mountain with blood" if he dared to harm Lingjian disciples again, before sealing a deal for the Red Fruits by biting Hai Tiankuo’s finger. Hai Tiankuo, although outwardly tolerating her due to his incompetent younger brother being in her hands, hinted that the upcoming full moon night would reveal her vulnerability, while internally noting the significance of Wang Wu biting his finger.
Back at Lingjian Sect, Feng Ling guided Wang Lu through the Inner Sight technique to assess his cultivation progress. As Feng Ling channeled her inner energy, stimulating his acupoints, Wang Lu meditated. He saw a complex network of "roads" within him – his meridians. Feng Ling explained that the herbal baths Wang Wu had prepared for him over the past two years had finally opened all his meridians, allowing spiritual energy to flow freely and unobstructed.
Wang Lu realized with deep regret that he had gravely misunderstood his master's painstaking efforts and expressed remorse for his previous misjudgment. He immediately sought out Wang Wu to apologize, but she was nowhere to be found, as she had not yet returned. As Wang Lu continued his search, Wen Bao found him. Determined to surprise his master by reaching the ninth level of Wuxiang Sword Bone before her return, Wang Lu asked Wen Bao to continue training with him.
When Wen Bao admitted that he could no longer be angered after learning of Wang Lu's good intentions, Wang Lu resorted to fabricating a salacious story about Yue Xinyao, claiming she had sought him out for intimate conversations, including wanting to "have an all-night talk" and "in-depth communication," even saying he "pushed your Senior Sister down." Enraged once more, Wen Bao resumed their intense sparring session.
Episode 11 Recap
After completing his training with Wen Bao, Wang Lu felt his entire body’s bones were fractured from Wen Bao's power, yet simultaneously, the Wuxiang Zhuanggu Dan in his body was stimulated to its full potential, penetrating his bone marrow. Following this, he turned his inner vision inward, observing that his Wuxiang Sword Bone had reached its ninth level. Guided by Feng Ling, he unexpectedly awakened the Grand Bone.
Just as this crucial moment unfolded, Wen Bao burst in, mistakenly thinking Wang Lu was with his crush, Senior Sister Yue. While it was a misunderstanding, Wen Bao's intrusion disturbed Wang Lu, almost causing him to suffer a qi deviation, but fortunately, Feng Ling was there to assist him. With the imminent breakthrough to the ninth level, Wang Lu decided to embark on another trial at Qingyun Peak.
He cunningly convinced Wen Bao to join him by hinting that Yue Xinyao admired those who faced challenges. Then, he enticed Feng Ling with promises of abundant magical herbs from Qingyun Peak, appealing to her ambition to expand her inn, suggesting they could open many branches across Cangxi State. Feng Ling, initially hesitant due to the peak's strict regulations and potential dangers, eventually agreed, acknowledging Wang Lu's persuasive vision for her business. He also brought Hai Yunfan along.
Despite the strict regulations, Wang Lu leveraged Master Ao's deep respect for Wang Wu and his affection for her disciple. He subtly threatened Senior Brother Yue Yun by mentioning Master Ao's past rescue by Wang Wu, implying that if Yue Yun didn't allow them access, Master Ao might be displeased.
Yue Yun, having been scolded by Master Liu Xian and Master Fang He for past incidents involving Wang Wu and Red Fruits from Qingyun Peak, reluctantly agreed but made a secret alteration to the formation. When filling out the truth testing paper, Feng Ling revealed she had no surname, only "Ling," explaining that the paper only accepted absolute truth, like a "lie detector" that never failed.
Hai Yunfan then arrived, clarifying their true purpose: to assist Wang Lu in absorbing nimbuses. Wang Lu quickly reassured Wen Bao that there would still be opportunities for challenge points and even hinted at Yue Xinyao bathing in the peak's hot springs. Upon entering the formation, they found themselves not in Qingyun Peak, but in the Ice Cave outside Lingjian Mountain. Yue Yun confessed that he had subtly changed the array to prevent them from "ruining" Qingyun Peak's spirit pond.
Despite being outside the sect's protective range, the Ice Cave was rich in nimbus, making it suitable for Wang Lu's nimbus absorption. Recognizing the danger of being vulnerable during cultivation, Wang Lu tasked Wen Bao with the crucial mission of clearing the area and guarding the cave entrance, even giving him his boot as a "weapon" to manage the task.
Wen Bao, though initially daunted by the many beasts, accepted the heavy responsibility and cleared the area, eventually falling asleep from exhaustion. Inside the cave, as Wang Lu began absorbing nimbuses with Feng Ling and Hai Yunfan's help, he expressed surprise at Feng Ling's cultivation level, which was above Foundation Establishment for a mortal. Feng Ling then casually revealed that she was, in fact, the Sect Leader's illegitimate daughter.
Wang Lu also felt the Grand Bone vibrating intensely, signaling an impending eruption of power. Meanwhile, back at Lingjian Mountain, Master Ao observed that someone had altered Qingyun Peak's restriction, transferring disciples outside the sect's territory. Master Feng Yin, using his spiritual vision, saw Feng Ling and Wang Lu together and, enraged by what he perceived as improper behavior, demanded to "cut that boy down." The other elders intervened, offering to handle the situation themselves.
Unaware of the commotion, Master Zhifeng, passing by the Ice Cave, detected a strong demonic aura. He entered the cave and, without hesitation, sealed Wang Lu, Feng Ling, and Hai Yunfan into his dimension sack. Inside, Master Zhifeng announced that one of them was a demon and would be revealed when an incense stick burned out. Wen Bao, waking up outside the cave, tried to stop Master Zhifeng but was immobilized by a spell.
Simultaneously, Hai Yunfan, perhaps due to a past restriction, succumbed to pain and fainted as Master Zhifeng recited his incantation. When Wang Lu asked Feng Ling for help, he was shocked to see her ears had become pointed, revealing her true demonic form. Feng Ling explained that she was not a true demon, but rather had an ancient divine beast, a Nine-tail fox, sealed within her body.
This powerful fox, capable of rivaling true immortals, would unleash widespread devastation if ever released. To prevent this, the Lingjian Sect leader had used the Universal Seal for Immortals to seal the Nine-tail fox within Feng Ling's body, effectively making her the sacrifice. As a consequence, all magical arts were rendered useless on her, ending her path of cultivation.
Wang Lu deduced that this was why Feng Ling had formally severed ties with her father, the Sect Leader, by not using his surname. Feng Ling corrected him, clarifying that her resentment stemmed from the leader's prolonged guilt and constant appeasement after the sacrifice, which she found increasingly annoying. This was why she chose to leave Lingjian Mountain and open her inn.
She then shared that their unexpected encounter three years prior, followed by Wang Lu's help two years ago in winning a bet that prevented her inn from failing, had averted her forced return to the mountain. As a token of gratitude, Feng Ling had given Wang Lu the Xiaoyun Ancient Coin, which forced the Sect Leader to accept him as a True Disciple. Speaking these long-held secrets brought her immense relief.
As the incense stick neared its end, Feng Ling, to prevent the Nine-tail fox from transforming and harming Lingjian Sect's reputation, resolved to sacrifice herself by letting Wang Lu attack her. However, Wang Lu, being a loyal friend, quickly devised a brilliant plan.
While Master Feng Yin and the other elders were confronting Master Zhifeng, accusing him of slandering Lingjian Sect and questioning his ability to discern demons, Wang Lu realized a crucial detail: the seal was placed 30 years ago, meaning Feng Ling was now in her thirties. He provoked Feng Ling by calling her an "old woman," triggering her anger.
This surge of emotion was precisely the power Wang Lu needed for his nimbus absorption, causing a powerful fluctuation within the dimension sack. Master Zhifeng, mistakenly believing the demon was transforming, released them from the dimension sack. To his utter surprise, Wang Lu, Feng Ling, and Hai Yunfan emerged unharmed, clad in comical, fake monster ears and tails.
Wang Lu promptly removed his fake ears, explaining that they were merely engaging in a "fun cultivation" practice, a technique inspired by his master's "bedtime story." At this opportune moment, Wang Wu arrived, immediately taking charge. Master Zhifeng, recognizing her, launched into a furious tirade, accusing her of demolishing Qianling Sect's branch in White Moon and destroying the spiritual roots of over 150 people.
Wang Wu calmly admitted to the destruction but clarified that she had destroyed a branch of Shengjing Sect in a small country, not Qianling Sect. She stated that Shengjing Sect was engaging in abhorrent human experiments, committing inhumane acts, which justified her intervention. As Master Liu Xian and Master Fang He questioned her further, Wang Wu expressed her intention to confront Master Zhifeng directly over his slander.
Episode 12 Recap
After their rescue, Hai Yunfan remained unconscious. Ao Guanhai, the Seventh Elder, instructed Wang Lu and Feng Ling to look after Hai Yunfan while he went to assist Wang Wu, who was in trouble. Wang Lu, noticing Ao Guanhai's exceptional concern for Wang Wu, playfully suggested an affair, prompting Ao Guanhai to offer Wang Lu a spiritual elixir he and Wang Wu had developed, in case Wang Lu experienced discomfort after his recent advancement to the Qi Condensation stage.
Feng Ling thanked Wang Lu for keeping her secret about the Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox sealed within her, a secret Wang Lu warned must be kept from Hai Yunfan due to his deep-seated hatred for demons. Wang Lu, feeling responsible for his master, then decided to go to her aid. Wang Wu, upon seeing him, claimed her actions were simply out of a sense of justice.
She explained that after self-healing on a full moon night, she encountered Master Zhifeng, laden with expensive equipment worth tens of thousands of Spirit Stones. She knocked him unconscious and stole his equipment, but then detected the sinister scent of Qianyuan kungfu, a demonic art that exchanges one's innate lifespan for power.
Tracking him to White Moon, she discovered he had founded the Qianling Sect, promoting the cultivation of this dangerous art and collecting the resulting "blood beads" to enhance his own strength. Wang Wu scoffed at the "improved" version of Qianyuan kungfu, noting that while it didn't immediately drain cultivators, it was fundamentally flawed and would eventually lead to their demise, comparing it to a castle built on sand.
She admitted to publicly mocking the Qianling Sect at their headquarters, which provoked a confrontation with their leaders. Although she denied stealing anything, Wang Lu pointed out she was carrying Zhifeng's equipment, implying that was the true reason for his relentless pursuit to Lingjian sect. Wang Wu, recognizing that even the Lingjian sect leader might struggle against Master Zhifeng, resolved to handle the situation herself, a surprising display of responsibility that puzzled Wang Lu.
Meanwhile, Hai Yunfan regained consciousness, and Feng Ling urged Wang Lu to explain the day's events to him to prevent any misunderstandings. Back at the Xuan Yun Hall, Master Zhifeng was attempting to have Wang Wu impeached, accusing her of defaming Shengjing Sect. However, the Lingjian sect leader and all the elders staunchly defended Wang Wu, expressing their complete trust in her and underscoring the sect's unwavering unity in times of crisis.
They boldly challenged Master Zhifeng, implicitly stating that Shengjing Sect would not risk an all-out war over a mere Level 4 Nascent Soul cultivator like him. Despite the elders' united front, Wang Lu remained suspicious, convinced that Wang Wu had bribed them. Feng Ling then revealed Wang Wu's arduous journey: her spiritual root was only a Level 5 mixed root, not aligned with any of the Five Elements, making cultivation incredibly difficult.
It took her hundreds of years of relentless effort to secure her position as an elder. Feng Ling further explained that the Non-Phase Method, though originally conceived by Ouyang Shang, was painstakingly developed and perfected by Wang Wu through immense suffering and personal sacrifice, making Wang Lu's own hardships seem trivial in comparison.
Furthermore, Wang Wu's notorious and expensive drinking habit wasn't for pleasure; it was a desperate measure to alleviate the agonizing bone-shattering pain she endured every full moon night, a consequence of a cultivation deviation early in her path due to lack of proper guidance. This revelation finally shattered Wang Lu's prejudices, and he began to understand Wang Wu's profound dedication and hidden struggles.
Inspired by the elders' trust, Wang Wu proposed a single combat with Master Zhifeng to definitively resolve their dispute and avert a larger conflict between their sects. They solidified this agreement with a Heart Swear, an inviolable oath that pledged their cultivation as stakes, ensuring absolute fairness and dire consequences for any betrayal. Wen Bao rushed to inform Wang Lu, Hai Yunfan, and Feng Ling of the impending duel.
Wang Lu, fearing for Wang Wu's safety against a Nascent Soul cultivator, briefly considered interfering, but Feng Ling reassured him, declaring Wang Wu the "No. 1 Golden Pill" and utterly invincible. Spotting a lucrative opportunity, Wang Lu immediately set up a bustling betting booth, taking wagers on the outcome. The duel commenced with Master Zhifeng immediately unleashing his formidable 8th-grade artifact, the Yaotian Sword, and employing advanced Shengjing Sect techniques.
He transformed the battlefield into a desolate earthen realm, a tactic that leveraged his Earth-attribute root to gain a significant advantage. He then launched the "Yaotian Arris Needle," a seemingly unavoidable attack combining the force of earth and seismic vibrations. However, Wang Wu, despite her lower Golden Pill cultivation, effortlessly evaded his swift and dense attacks.
She even stood casually on the tip of the Arris Needle with her Bamboo Sword, negating its power with a light touch and openly mocking Master Zhifeng's efforts. Realizing that Wang Wu's Bamboo Sword was drawing power from his own Earth spiritual energy, Master Zhifeng invoked his Nascent Soul's mastery over the Five Elements, transforming the surrounding earth into gleaming gold. Declaring that "wood breaks when it meets gold," he burst from the illusion and swiftly shattered Wang Wu's Bamboo Sword.
Episode 13 Recap
Master Zhifeng, having shattered Wang Wu's bamboo sword with his Gengjin Sword, boasted that she was now weaponless and urged her to surrender to avoid further humiliation for Lingjian Sect. Wang Lu, observing the duel, initially expressed concern about Wang Wu's predicament, even speculating on her potential defeat. He then calculated the high odds of her losing and quickly adjusted his betting strategy, betting heavily on her defeat, anticipating a substantial payout.
Meanwhile, Wang Wu, seemingly unfazed, casually explained that her bamboo swords were easily crafted from Lingjian Mountain's abundant bamboo, making them cheap, versatile, and durable. She then mentioned that she had been holding back to avoid damaging the valuable Yaotian Sword (Zhifeng's treasure sword) with too much force. Master Zhifeng then attempted a war of attrition, but Wang Wu effortlessly parried his attacks, remaining completely composed.
She mocked his Qianyuan Kungfu, calling it a "life-sucking" evil skill that produced "fake Nascent Soul" cultivators, unlike the pure Dao Heart cultivated at Lingjian Sect. Master Zhifeng vehemently defended his methods, arguing they could help less talented cultivators achieve breakthroughs and lead to a new golden age for the cultivation world, but Wang Wu dismissed his vision as a delusion.
She asserted that true cultivation requires perseverance and a strong Dao Heart, not shortcuts, and declared that Master Zhifeng, having lost his Dao Heart, was destined to fail. Defeated and humiliated, Master Zhifeng finally conceded. As a gesture of defeat, Master Zhifeng handed over his century-old sword to Wang Wu, imploring her to care for it. Wang Wu, however, lightheartedly announced her intention to sell it for wine.
He then confessed that his previous boasts of being a Shengjing Sect elder were false; he was merely distantly related to Master Shuiyue, Shengjing Sect's acting leader. He also revealed that his Qianyuan Kungfu was obtained by trading his blood with the Holy Girls of the Qianling Cult and pleaded with Wang Wu to keep his secret from Shengjing Sect before swiftly departing. Wang Lu, whose lucrative betting scheme before the duel had paid off handsomely, approached Wang Wu.
He offered his winnings as a token of filial respect, subtly leading into his request for her to take Hai Yunfan as a disciple and remove the debilitating Restriction placed on him by Hai Tiankuo. Wang Wu did not explicitly refuse, simply stating that "that can wait" and that she was going for a drink, which Wang Lu optimistically took as a positive sign.
Excited to share the news, Wang Lu rushed back to Hai Yunfan, only to find Wen Bao asleep and Hai Yunfan missing. Hai Yunfan, desperate to quickly learn powerful spells to defeat his brother, had secretly ventured into the forbidden Scripture Library. There, he encountered Liu Li xian, who was also illicitly snacking. Just as the strict Elder Fang He approached, sensing intruders, Wang Lu arrived and pulled both Hai Yunfan and Liu Li xian out of hiding.
Though caught, Liu Li xian, in her innocent confusion, claimed she had accidentally fallen into the library while searching for food and that Wang Lu and Hai Yunfan had helped her. While suspicious, Elder Fang He spared them from immediate punishment but sternly warned them against future transgressions. Meanwhile, Master Zhifeng's escape from Lingjian Sect was short-lived. He encountered his granduncle, Master Shuiyue, the acting leader of Shengjing Sect.
Disgusted by Master Zhifeng's shameful defeat by a mere Gold Core cultivator and his fraudulent claims of Shengjing affiliation, Master Shuiyue ruthlessly executed him. Master Zhifeng's humiliating loss against Lingjian Sect piqued Master Shuiyue's interest, making him ponder the old rumors of the "Golden Generation's vast legacies" hidden within Lingjian Mountain. He resolved to find a justifiable pretext to investigate.
Later, Wang Wu, enjoying a quiet drink, mused about her senior brother, lamenting his absence despite her Wuxiang Kungfu having made a minor breakthrough. Wang Lu then brought Hai Yunfan to Wang Wu again to press the matter of his mentorship. Wang Wu, considering Hai Yunfan's background as the brother of the Junhuang Mountain General, declined to take him as a direct disciple immediately.
However, she presented an alternative path: if Hai Yunfan could achieve first place in Lingjian Sect's Field Test, held every five years (with the next one being in just over two and a half years), he would be promoted to a Successor Disciple, and she would then accept him. Despite the long wait, Hai Yunfan remained resolute, determined to improve himself and ultimately defeat Hai Tiankuo.
Wang Lu, reflecting on Wang Wu's demonstration of Dao Heart against Master Zhifeng, realized his own true aspiration: to become powerful, even surpassing his master. He and Hai Yunfan then made a pact, vowing to forge their own era in the cultivation world. Concurrently, the Lingjian Sect Leader summoned Wang Wu to the Star Hall. It was revealed that Elder Liu Xian and Elder Fang He wished to apologize to her for their previous doubts and misjudgments.
During their discussion, a flying sword message arrived from Master Shuiyue, containing a valuable Crystal, a letter, and a grotesque "donkey burger." The elders quickly deduced that Shengjing Sect had ruthlessly executed Master Zhifeng and sent his remains as a chilling message. The accompanying letter from the Immortals Union Leader announced a martial arts competition between Shengjing Sect and Lingjian Sect, to be hosted by Lingjian Sect in one year's time.
Recognizing the profound implications, the Lingjian Sect Leader decided that the immediate priority was to send their younger disciples down the mountain for vital practical experience. This experience, he explained, would not only aid in combating the rising threat of evil cults and protecting the local populace but also deepen their understanding of the world, allowing their cultivation and spiritual enlightenment to progress in tandem. Elders Liu Xian, Fang He, and Wang Wu were then appointed to lead this crucial expedition.
Episode 14 Recap
The Leader, Liu Xian, and Fang He gathered to discuss the upcoming practice for new disciples, an accelerated event prompted by rampant evil cults and the need for disciples to gain real-world experience. The Leader assigned Liu Xian, Fang He, and Wang Wu to lead this important mission. As they finalized plans, Wang Wu suddenly coughed up blood.
Liu Xian recognized it as Liumang Poisonous Blood, noting its conflict with Wang Wu's Wuxiang Magic and that the full moon night was supposed to be her last experience of "the pain." It became clear to the other elders that Wang Wu had intentionally poisoned herself to further refine her Wuxiang Magic and to help Wang Lu with his own cultivation.
Concerned for her safety, the Leader relieved Wang Wu of her duties for the practice, instructing her to remain on Lingjian Mountain for recovery under the care of Hua Yun and Ao Guanhai. Wang Wu grumbled, calling it a "work-related injury" and bemoaning the lost wages that would result from her healing.
Wang Lu and Hai Yunfan were ecstatic to learn the practice was starting earlier than expected, especially since it meant Hai Yunfan could become Wang Wu's Successor Disciple sooner if he placed first. Wang Lu immediately began strategizing to assemble the perfect four-person team to ensure Hai Yunfan's success. He was surprised, however, to find that most disciples, including Zhu Qin and Wang Zhong, were flocking to other esteemed Successor Disciples like Yin Xuan, Zhu Shiyao, and Liu Li xian.
Zhu Qin and Wang Zhong approached Wang Lu to mock him, but Wang Lu quickly turned the tables, exposing Zhu Qin's own lack of teammates due to his lost cultivation. Soon after, the earnest Wen Bao approached Wang Lu, expressing admiration and trust, and was welcomed into their team as the "force output."
Wang Lu explained that with his "intelligence," Hai Yunfan's "magical power," and Wen Bao's "force output," they only lacked "background" and revealed his ideal fourth member: Feng Ling, the Leader's daughter. Meanwhile, Zhu Qin and Wang Zhong, in a desperate attempt to secure a powerful teammate, tried to bribe Liu Li xian with a large box of snacks.
However, Master Ao, Liu Li xian's master, arrived and dispersed the crowd, clearly frustrated by Liu Li xian's insatiable appetite and the commotion it caused. Wang Lu, Hai Yunfan, and Wen Bao then sought out Feng Ling. She initially refused to join, explaining she couldn't leave Lingjian Mountain. Wang Lu, undeterred, secretly offered her money he had hidden from his gambling winnings and used her existing resentment towards her father to provoke her.
Wang Lu suggested she confront the Leader, accusing him of "moral kidnapping" and confining her. Spurred by his words, Feng Ling stormed into Cloud Hall and echoed Wang Lu's sentiments, demanding her freedom. The Leader, touched by her defiance, agreed to let her go. However, to Wang Lu's dismay, Feng Ling then declared she would go down the mountain to practice alone, asserting that she would prove herself even if she could only practice mortal martial arts.
Wang Lu's meticulously crafted plan fell apart. With Feng Ling out of the picture, Wang Lu's team remained at three. When Senior Sister Yue, whom Wen Bao admired, offered to join their group, Wang Lu firmly but privately rejected her. He stressed that for Hai Yunfan's important mission, trust and compatible strength were paramount, and he couldn't risk bringing in someone they didn't fully trust.
Hai Yunfan and Wen Bao, though initially disappointed, eventually understood Wang Lu's reasoning and agreed that a three-person team was acceptable, provided a Master would vouch for them. Wang Wu, having furthered her cultivation by embracing the Liumang Poisonous Blood, had achieved the 108th level of her Wuxiang Sword Bone, freeing her from the once-monthly "bone-shattering pain." She had also used the poison to deduce Wang Lu's next cultivation steps.
However, the poison now caused painful outbreaks multiple times a day whenever she exerted her power. The Leader, observing her condition, ordered her to remain on Lingjian Mountain for the next six months for intensive healing using the Three-talent Star Formation, a treatment that would cost her five years of salary. Wang Lu, Hai Yunfan, and Wen Bao had been waiting for Wang Wu for a long time, hoping she would sign off on their three-person team.
Wang Lu even attempted to steal her official seal again, but Wang Wu caught him red-handed. She dismissed their concerns, stating there were still two days until the mobilization meeting, leaving open the possibility of an unexpected fourth member appearing. Before the practice, Wang Lu asked Wang Wu for a defensive artifact. She led him to a hidden space behind the Golden Age Monument, revealing it to be Lingjian's Sword Graveyard, filled with ancient weapons used by past masters.
Wang Lu immediately sensed a connection to the Kunshan Sword, which Wang Wu revealed had only ever been drawn by Ouyang Shang, who had vanished centuries ago. To Wang Wu's astonishment, Wang Lu easily pulled the sword from its sheath and even summoned its spirit, Liang Qiu. A heated argument immediately erupted between Wang Wu and Liang Qiu. From their bickering, Wang Lu shrewdly deduced that Wang Wu and Ouyang Shang had a romantic past.
Annoyed by the sword spirit's presence, Wang Wu suggested erasing Liang Qiu's memories to make her more compliant and offered the sword to Wang Lu. However, Wang Lu, valuing Liang Qiu's centuries of battle experience, refused to clear her memories. He continued to playfully tease Wang Wu about her past relationship with Ouyang Shang and her perceived affinity for Master Ao.
Wang Wu, in response, demonstrated the sword's defensive power by using it to deflect her own attack on Wang Lu. She then left him in the sword graveyard, cryptically telling him that "water can carry a boat, and also capsize it," implying the sword's power could be both a boon and a bane, before disappearing and leaving Wang Lu to figure out how to exit the chamber.
Episode 15 Recap
Feng Ling, preparing for her solo journey down the mountain for practice, said goodbye to her father, the leader of Lingjian Sect. She urged him not to cry, reminding him she was merely going for practice, not a funeral. He expressed his reluctance for her to suffer and entrusted his inn to her care, to which Feng Ling playfully retorted that his old age made him more suited for charity than running a business.
Feng Ling then turned to Wang Wu, asking her to look after Wang Lu, praising his talent and character, and urging her to teach him well. Wang Wu, however, complained about Feng Ling's decision to leave despite her thirty-year plan for the inn, questioning the ambition of modern young women. Wang Lu, Hai Yunfan, and Wen Bao arrived to see Feng Ling off.
Wen Bao offered her pastries from the royal kitchen of Canglan, apologizing for having always freeloaded at her inn. Hai Yunfan presented her with a teleportation charm for self-defense. Feng Ling then shared a profound thought with Hai Yunfan, emphasizing that true evil lies not in demons but in one's heart, and a good heart makes even a demon benevolent. When Wang Lu approached empty-handed, Feng Ling chided him.
He claimed to have given her the one thing she lacked but desired most – a "fruit" (implying trouble or a challenge). Feng Ling, amused, threatened to beat him, and Wang Lu promised to return someday to beat her severely enough to help her reach the Gold Core stage.
As she departed, Feng Ling advised Wang Lu to be obedient to Wang Wu and not cause trouble, ironically calling Wang Wu the "shame of Lingjian Mountain" and a great trouble herself. After Feng Ling's departure, Wang Lu, Hai Yunfan, and Wen Bao approached Wang Wu, attempting to get her to stamp a paper, hinting at revealing secrets in return.
Wang Wu surprised them by revealing she had already registered them for the practice, and for a four-person team, refusing to disclose the fourth member. She told Wang Lu to approach the leader if he wished to change the arrangement, but Wang Lu realized that the heartbroken leader would be unapproachable, and attempting to change anything would result in dire consequences for both him and Wang Wu. Meanwhile, Wang Lu was struggling to control the Kunshan Sword's spirit, Liang Qiu.
He tried to command her, but she mocked his "sorcerer's dance" as an insult to the sword. Wang Lu threatened to melt her, calling her a "little sword spirit," but Liang Qiu, in her sword form, overpowered him. Wang Lu humbly apologized to "Miss Liang Qiu," acknowledging her as the "boss." Wang Wu appeared and chided Wang Lu for being subdued, reminding him she had warned him about keeping Liang Qiu's memories.
Wang Lu complained about the pain, to which Wang Wu playfully suggested he use his glib tongue to praise the sword spirit. Wang Lu retorted by suggesting scolding Wang Wu would be more effective, which earned him a playful flick from his master. Suddenly, a bell rang. Wang Lu jokingly asked if the leader had passed away, but Wang Wu clarified it was the mobilization meeting for the upcoming mountain practice.
Wang Wu then promised Wang Lu a "big surprise" at the meeting. Wang Lu arrived late, drawing a stern rebuke from Elder Fang He, who informed all disciples that the Lingjian Sect, aiming to strengthen its talent and comprehensive abilities, was sending them to the mortal world for a one-year practice. Upon their return, they were required to submit a 5,000-word report on "the relations between the immortal and human worlds," which would directly impact their final evaluation.
This proposal, he explained, had been put forth by the leader and approved by the masters. During the announcement of the groups, Wang Lu muttered about the Lingjian Sect creating trouble due to its long period of peace. Elder Fang He then announced the third group: Wang Lu, Hai Yunfan, Wen Bao, and unexpectedly, Liu Li Xian. Wang Lu was horrified, calling Liu Li Xian a "living volcano" and believing Wang Wu was intentionally sabotaging him.
Wang Wu appeared, feigning innocence and asking if he was surprised. She boasted about arranging for two true successor disciples to be in one group, attributing it to Liu Li Xian's master, Ao Guanhai, being easily manipulated. Wang Lu jokingly threatened to expose her to Liang Qiu unless she returned the sword. Wang Wu then offered to teach Wang Lu the Unfailing Sword Art, noting his recent breakthrough to the ninth level of the Unfailing Sword Bone.
When Wang Lu complained it was too late, Wang Wu presented him with two options: the "great perseverance" type or the "great intelligence" type. Wang Lu, suspecting a trap for a prolonged, arduous practice, chose "great intelligence." Wang Wu warned him it might be even more challenging. Upon opening the manual, Wang Lu discovered it was completely blank. Feeling tricked, he questioned the point of becoming her disciple.
Wang Wu explained that "great intelligence" meant he had to forge his own unique sword art through real-world combat, a path she herself had followed. She emphasized that there were no shortcuts to true mastery. Understanding her intent, Wang Lu accepted the challenge. Wang Wu encouraged him to pack his belongings, including the Kunshan Sword and the blank manual, and set off for his practice.
After she left, Wang Lu checked the "great perseverance" manual, finding it also blank, confirming he had been completely outwitted. Wang Lu's team received their mission: to eliminate the remnants of the Qianling Sect. Wen Bao expressed excitement, and Wang Lu confirmed it was the same heresy whose branch Wang Wu had previously destroyed, noting their continued conflict with the sect.
Wang Lu jokingly declared he would "fulfill Wang Wu's last wish," prompting Wang Wu to appear, scolding him for such morbid talk. She then added a crucial life lesson to their mission: they must "cut off worldly ties." Wang Wu explained that cultivators, with their extended lifespans, would inevitably outlive their mortal loved ones. This, she said, was their destiny and a crucial trial. She advised them to visit their parents before embarking on their journey.
Liu Li Xian's home was Lingjian Mountain itself, so she had no need to return. Wen Bao's home in Canglan was too distant and outside the designated practice area. Hai Yunfan sadly revealed his parents were deceased, leaving him with no earthly home. Wang Lu then suggested they all travel to his home, Wang Mansion, in Wang Village, located in Wuhou County, Dongdao Province, Cangxi State, Ming, promising them the famous local open-air banquet.
As they approached Wang Village, Hai Yunfan, using his Qi inspection technique, noticed the nimbus over the village was a withered yellow, unlike the healthy green surrounding areas. He hypothesized three causes for such abnormal spiritual energy: natural disaster (ruled out due to lush vegetation), the death of a great man (which Wang Lu immediately dismissed by declaring himself the "great man"), or demonic activity. They concluded it must be the work of demons.
Wang Lu, confident, boasted about dealing with any demons and serving them as a "full formal banquet" to Liu Li Xian's delight. Upon entering the village, Wang Lu was surprised to find the locals shying away, whispering about him being a "heresy," which he misinterpreted as them being shy due to his handsomeness.
A young boy, Puppy, ran to greet Wang Lu but was quickly pulled away by his mother, who scolded him, mentioning his sister, Lan, had been "spirited off" – a worrying detail Wang Lu noted. Another villager, Aunt Liu, showed Wang Lu a bottle of "holy water" given by a "fairy," claiming it could cure all illnesses, expressing surprise that he, a cultivator, hadn't seen it before.
Wang Lu approached the Village Chief, who greeted him warmly, unlike the other villagers. Wang Lu introduced his companions, then asked the chief about the villagers' strange, unwelcoming behavior. The chief invited them to his home, explaining that much had changed since Wang Lu left. He revealed that "immortals" and a "Holy Girl" had arrived in the village, periodically "delivering" those with affinity.
He confirmed the villagers' avoidance of Wang Lu stemmed from a belief that he had "fallen into a wrong path." The chief enthusiastically described how the Holy Girl's sacred water could cultivate a "magic root" in forty-nine days, granting "immortal cause," and also possessed potent healing properties. Wang Lu immediately recognized the "holy water" as the false spiritual item they were tasked to eradicate.
The chief then listed the wealthy villagers who had supposedly been "delivered" and gained "immortal cause" by the Holy Girl, including Wang Xiaohu, Wang Dafu, Wang Tiezhu, Wang Laogen, and Wang Shanyao. Wang Lu cynically observed the pattern, remarking that "immortal cause" seemed directly proportional to one's wealth. The chief, however, staunchly defended the Qianling Sect, claiming it followed an "orthodox immortal way" and had no interest in worldly riches. Wang Lu then inquired about his own father, Wang Fugui.
The chief explained that Wang Fugui initially lacked "immortal cause" but was "rescued" by Wang Xiaohu, prompting the Holy Girl's reluctant agreement. However, as a sign of sincerity, Wang Fugui was expected to build a grand new yard for the Holy Girl at the village entrance, costing a staggering 700,000 to 800,000 taels. Wang Lu scoffed, calling it outright robbery.
The chief assured him that building the yard would guarantee both Wang Lu and his father would be chosen by the Holy Girl next time. Wang Lu then learned that a "two-star Ambassador" of Qianling Sect named Mr. Zhou had been living in the village for two years, preaching magic, with Wang Xiaohu as his assistant.
Hai Yunfan confirmed their earlier suspicion of demonic activity was indeed the Qianling Sect taking root, much to Liu Li Xian's excitement about combining their mission with feasting. Wang Lu, concerned for his father's wealth, decided to confront the Qianling Sect members alone, instructing his companions to wait at the chief's house. He dismissed Hai Yunfan's warning about being framed, confident that his long-standing relationship with the villagers would outweigh Mr. Zhou's two-year presence.
He rushed home to prevent his family's assets from being squandered. Upon arriving, Wang Lu found Mr. Zhou pressuring his father, Wang Fugui, for one million taels for the new yard. Wang Fugui protested, stating he was a small merchant with no such funds, only wishing to save for Wang Lu's marriage and his own peaceful retirement, and thus wished to abandon the idea of immortality.
Mr. Zhou, aided by the villagers, pressured Wang Fugui, arguing that the yard was for the benefit of the entire village, citing Puppy's "magic root" as proof. Wang Tiezhu even offered 100,000 taels to further sway Wang Fugui. Overwhelmed, Wang Fugui was about to give in when Wang Lu burst in, condemning Mr. Zhou's actions. He reminded Mr. Zhou that Wang Wu had already destroyed a Qianling Sect branch and insulted the sect directly, calling it "dog shit."
Mr. Zhou's assistant questioned his audacity, and Mr. Zhou himself feigned indignation, accusing Wang Lu of insulting their sect and terrifying the villagers without cause. Wang Lu countered that the Lingjian Sect did not need reason to eradicate a heresy. He then publicly denounced the Qianling Sect as the "number one heresy in Cangxi State," accusing them of colluding with officials, defrauding common people, and causing widespread harm.
Mr. Zhou challenged Wang Lu by asking the villagers if he had ever cheated them. The villagers, swayed by Mr. Zhou's influence, vehemently denied it and expressed their unwavering support for him. Wang Lu dismissed their response as nonsense, arguing that the Qianling Sect's claim that "everyone can become immortal" proved their "low-grade" nature, questioning who would be ordinary if everyone was an immortal.
Mr. Zhou responded with a lengthy, elaborate explanation about the fairness of heaven, the hidden potential in everyone, and the Holy Girl's invention of the "holy water" to cultivate "magic root," thus opening the path to immortality for all. Wang Lu pressed him on the cost, to which Mr. Zhou replied it was for "sincerity."
Wang Lu retorted that true cultivation sects sought out talented disciples and provided resources without charge, and exposed the "holy water" as worthless concoctions sold for exorbitant sums, revealing the true nature of their fraud. The villagers, listening intently, began to waver, murmuring agreement with Wang Lu.
Seeing his influence diminish, Mr. Zhou, enraged, launched a hidden weapon, a "Penetrating Nail," at Wang Lu, gloating that the powerful, poison-tipped nail would kill him instantly for daring to oppose the Qianling Sect, despite his youth and cultivation. Meanwhile, Liu Li Xian, still at the chief's house, asked about Wang Lu's return, just as the chief exclaimed in fear, seeing the "wrath of heaven" (the nail's impact). To Mr. Zhou's shock, the nail failed to harm Wang Lu.
Mr. Zhou, reeling, explained its lethal potency, concluding that Wang Lu, by surviving the poison, must be a "demon." The terrified villagers echoed "demon," while Wang Fugui, bewildered, insisted his son could not be one. Wang Lu, observing the situation, acknowledged that Hai Yunfan's earlier warning about being framed had come true. The villagers, simple-minded and easily swayed by promises of immortality, were terrified by Wang Lu's fearless confrontation and readily believed Mr. Zhou's accusation that he was a great demon.
Episode 16 Recap
Wang Lu's father, Wang Fugui, dragged him back towards their home, but once out of sight of the villagers, they dropped their act, finally reuniting as father and son. Wang Lu’s mother also emerged, overjoyed to see her son after years, and the family was together once more. Wang Lu soon realized that none of the fifty-plus letters he had sent home over the years had been received.
He surmised this was Qianling Sect's doing, blocking communication to better indoctrinate the villagers. Wang Lu's mother confirmed that Wang Village had changed drastically since Wang Xiaohu brought Mr. Zhou to the village. The villagers, desperate for a chance at immortality, had become obsessed with cultivation, tirelessly donating their blood for the "holy water," which they couldn't afford to buy.
This belief in Qianling Sect was so deep that villagers were easily swayed into thinking Wang Lu was a demon, especially remembering a jinx falling when he was born and his odd behavior as a child. The village chief, Wang Qinian, declared he would stop Wang Lu if he truly was a demon.
Mr. Zhou, a Two Stars Envoy, took advantage of this sentiment and, fearing Wang Lu’s power, secretly sent a distress signal to call for two Four Stars Envoys while villagers, at the suggestion of a fellow villager, went to subdue Wang Lu's three companions who were staying at the village chief's house. Wang Lu's friends were offered copious amounts of wine, eventually becoming too drunk to resist as the villagers tied them up.
Back at his home, Wang Lu’s parents asked him to show off his immortal cultivation. Wang Lu eagerly summoned his Black Frost Sword, Liang Qiu, who appeared rather fiercely, startling his parents. Wang Lu quickly calmed the sword spirit, reassuring his parents that she was just "a little girl who doesn't know how to behave."
Before he could go find his friends, a crowd of villagers gathered outside his home, shouting for Wang Fugui to hand over the "demon" Wang Lu. Wang Fugui tried to explain that Wang Lu was a true disciple of the Lingjian Sect, not a demon, but his words fell on deaf ears. Mr. Zhou arrived and demanded Wang Lu surrender and confess to insulting Qianling Sect. Wang Lu consulted Liang Qiu, who firmly stated that "the flagitious should be executed."
With that, Wang Lu and Liang Qiu merged, becoming one with his sword, and defeated Mr. Zhou and his Four Stars Envoys. Meanwhile, at the village chief’s house, Hai Yunfan, Liuli, and Wen Bao woke up. Realizing that Wang Lu might be in trouble, they quickly broke free from their bindings, leaving the startled villagers behind, and rushed to Wang Lu’s aid.
As they arrived, Mr. Zhou, seeing the tide turn against him, resorted to taking Dogwa, a young boy from the village, hostage, demanding Wang Lu hand over his magic treasure. Wang Lu was about to comply, but Liang Qiu intervened, forcing Mr. Zhou to release the child. Wang Lu spared Mr. Zhou, sending him back to Qianling Sect with a stern warning: if they caused any more trouble, he would personally raze their sect to the ground.
Dogwa’s mother, witnessing the whole ordeal, finally realized Qianling Sect's true nature and expressed immense gratitude to Wang Lu, acknowledging him as a good person, not a demon. That evening, Wang Fugui and his wife warmly welcomed Wang Lu’s friends into their home. Wang Lu proudly introduced Wen Bao, son of the Canglan Kingdom’s Master; Hai Yunfan, the Second Prince of Junhuang Mountain, who spoke highly of Wang Lu's excellence; and Liuli, his powerful senior fellow disciple.
Wang Lu declared that from now on, his home was also their home. Wen Bao then inquired about their next steps. Wang Lu explained his strategy: he had let Mr. Zhou go so that he would return to Qianling Sect and instigate them into attacking, thereby bringing themselves to Wang Lu. Mr. Zhou reported back to He Yun, a Six Stars Envoy, informing him of Wang Lu’s power and his connection to the Lingjian Sect.
He Yun, recognizing the formidable reputation of Lingjian Sect, decided against rash action, speculating that someone else might deal with Wang Lu for them. Meanwhile, Wang Lu spoke with Dogwa, who told him that his sister, Xiao Lan, had disappeared after Mr. Zhou arrived in the village. Wang Lu promised to help find her, and Dogwa gave him a special whistle, a token of their promise.
Dogwa’s mother also came to apologize to Wang Lu for misunderstanding him earlier, thanking him for saving her son and urging him to expose Qianling Sect’s deceit to restore their village. After three days with no sign of Qianling Sect, Wang Lu grew impatient and decided to take the initiative. He aimed to locate and dismantle their headquarters.
His team captured Wang Xiaohu, who confessed that he was forced into Qianling Sect and didn’t know the headquarters' location, as only Four Stars Envoys and above were privy to such information. However, he revealed that He Yun, a Six Stars Envoy, resided in Wuhou County and would surely know. Wang Lu released Wang Xiaohu with a final warning. Upon arriving in Wuhou County, Hai Yunfan attempted to use his aura-reading technique, but found the spiritual energy extremely turbid.
Wang Lu explained that the area was an ancient battlefield where the Immortals Union and the demon clan had once fought a devastating war, leaving behind a lingering chaotic aura. This made it impossible to locate the Six Stars Envoy using their usual methods. Suddenly, a large crowd rushed past, shouting about the arrival of "Saintesses." Wang Lu's team followed, discovering that "Saintess" referred to a group of young women, not just one.
During a display involving hallucinogenic smoke and butterflies, one of the Saintesses' veils slipped, revealing her to be Xiao Lan, Dogwa’s missing sister. To Wang Lu's dismay, she appeared brainwashed and did not recognize him, her childhood friend. Just as Wang Lu had predicted, He Yun, the Six Stars Envoy, also appeared, delivering a sermon. When a villager misbehaved, He Yun punished him by banning him from the sect, but Xiao Lan intervened, prompting He Yun to show mercy.
He then directed those seeking holy water to register. Recognizing the large crowd made a direct confrontation risky for both their team and the villagers, Wang Lu decided on a new plan to approach He Yun: blood donation. He clarified they would use chicken blood instead of their own. Wen Bao struggled to kill a chicken, and Hai Yunfan was reluctant, so Liuli stepped forward, using Kunshan Sword to swiftly slaughter the chickens, much to Liang Qiu's annoyance.
As villagers rushed to take the chickens for themselves, Liuli became upset, wanting to eat the chickens she had killed. Wang Lu promised her a beggar's chicken after they dealt with the Six Stars Envoy. He then proposed they split up: Hai Yunfan would prepare beggar's chicken for Liuli, while Wang Lu and Wen Bao would go to the Red Building to "donate blood," noting they would need to cut in line before the chicken blood dried.
Episode 17 Recap
Wang Lu and Wen Bao ventured to the blood donation site, intending to gain access to the Holy Girls. As Wen Bao worried that their fake chicken blood would clot before they could use it, Wang Lu confidently asserted he had a plan. Amidst the grumbling of the crowd, impatient with slow donors, Wang Lu theatrically stepped onto the platform.
After a grand declaration, he appeared to cut his wrist, discreetly using the chicken blood to impress the onlookers with his apparent sacrifice. This performance earned them a permit to enter the inner sanctum. Inside, Wang Lu quickly located Lan and called out her name. However, Lan claimed no recognition, insisting her name was Qianxun and accusing him of being a pervert.
Wang Lu persistently tried to trigger her memory, reminding her of their childhood in Wang Village, Wuhou Country, Dongdao Province, her brother Puppy, and even their childhood engagement. Despite his earnest efforts, Lan remained adamant that she knew nothing of these things and rang a warning bell. Mr. Zhou, recognizing Wang Lu from a previous encounter, swiftly appeared and ordered his men to seize him.
Meanwhile, Wen Bao, who had been nearby offering a Holy Girl a palm reading predicting a wealthy marriage, rushed to Wang Lu's defense. Wang Lu attempted to intimidate Mr. Zhou by invoking the power of the Lingjian Sect, but Mr. Zhou defiantly declared he was not afraid like Elder He and threatened to dismember Wang Lu and dispose of his body without a trace.
A fierce skirmish ensued, but Wang Lu and Wen Bao skillfully fought off their attackers and made their escape. Upon Wang Lu and Wen Bao's return, Liu Lixian greeted them cheerfully, sharing her chicken. Hai Yunfan, however, pulled Wang Lu aside, expressing deep concern about Liu Lixian's increasingly severe amnesia.
He recounted Liu Lixian's sudden, violent transformation when she stole chickens, exhibiting a murderous gaze and a surprisingly mature demeanor, only to revert to her innocent, childlike self moments later with no memory of the incident. Wang Lu, ever pragmatic, dismissed this as typical behavior for someone cultivating the "Sword Heart Enlightenment" method, which leaves one with a childlike mind, even jokingly comparing it to his own master's peculiar "teenage girl" persona despite her advanced age.
Wang Lu then confided in Hai Yunfan about Lan and the other Holy Girls, confirming they were brainwashed tools of the lustful Elder He. He instructed Hai Yunfan to diligently protect Liu Lixian, as her innocence would make her a prime target. Wang Lu then trailed the Holy Girls, discovering they were residing in the county magistrate's villa, confirming his suspicion that the Qianling Sect operated under official patronage.
Wen Bao suggested a direct assault on the villa to kill the corrupt official and capture Elder He. Wang Lu, however, rejected this idea as overly aggressive, arguing it would harm innocent servants and Holy Girls. He reminded Wen Bao of their "undercover agent," Lan, and expressed confidence that despite her current amnesia, she would eventually recall him, her "old flame," and seek him out. He revealed a bamboo flute, hinting at its role in their plan for the night.
That night, Wang Lu played a poignant tune on the bamboo flute, the very one Lan had once given to her brother, Puppy. Drawn by the familiar melody, Lan, who had been feeling increasingly uneasy in her room, ventured outside. Wen Bao, witnessing Lan's approach, marveled at Wang Lu's "charm." Lan recognized the flute but couldn't place it. Wang Lu gently reminded her it was a gift she made for Puppy.
A poignant flashback showed a younger Lan promising Puppy that she would always return to him upon hearing the flute's melody, sealing their vow with a pinky promise. Tears streamed down Lan's face as she finally remembered her brother and mother, asking about their welfare. Wang Lu reassured her they were safe under his father's care, and Lan expressed profound gratitude.
Prompted by Wen Bao, Lan recounted her abduction: Mr. Zhou had arrived in their village, and her mother had sent her to donate blood for Puppy. She was then lured into a private meeting with Mr. Zhou and woke up disoriented in Elder He's residence. She had attempted to escape but was quickly apprehended and forcibly administered a potent poison, which required a daily antidote to prevent a gruesome death by bleeding from seven orifices.
Enraged, Wang Lu vowed to make Elder He pay for his crimes and promised to take Lan home for a family reunion, entrusting her with the bamboo flute for safekeeping. Their conversation was abruptly cut short when guards discovered Lan's absence, forcing her to flee back into the villa. Wang Lu then proposed a "honey trap" as their next move.
After briefly considering Liu Lixian for the role, Wang Lu quickly dismissed her due to her unpredictable nature, arguing she would likely harm the target. Wang Lu then wistfully considered himself if the target were a woman. Finally, Hai Yunfan suggested Wang Wu, a suggestion that immediately excited Wang Lu. Meanwhile, back at Lingjian Mountain, Wang Wu was struggling with the Liumang Poisonous Blood coursing through her body.
She found it perplexing that her Wuxiang Kungfu, theoretically impervious to all poisons, was being suppressed. Even more puzzling, the poison seemed to be mending her existing internal injuries, leading her to question Hai Tiankuo's true motives. She also mused over Wang Lu's unexpected ability to wield Ouyang Shang's Kunshan Sword and earn Liang Qiu's approval, wondering if it was destiny or a veiled message. Wang Lu used a paper crane to contact her, pleading for assistance.
Wang Wu, though annoyed by the interruption, particularly given the instantaneous nature of paper crane communication that prevented her from ignoring it, was eventually swayed by Wang Lu's desperate pleas and flattery. Since she could not leave Lingjian Mountain, she sent a paper-person clone, identical to herself in appearance and mannerisms, to assist him. Upon its arrival, Wen Bao playfully attempted to "melt" the paper clone with water.
The clone initially feigned fear, then scolded him, reminding him that even as a paper creation, she was still an immortal and impervious to such weaknesses. Wang Lu then explained his "honey trap" plan. The Wang Wu clone initially expressed disdain for such a "low-class" mission, but Wang Lu showered her with compliments, declaring her the most beautiful woman in Kyushu and claiming men would faint at her sight.
After some feigned modesty and more sweet-talking from Wang Lu, the clone agreed to participate, but not without demanding a fee of two thousand spirit stones, half of which had to be paid upfront. Wang Lu protested, reminding her that she held all his funds, but she insisted on payment for her "labor." She then inquired about Elder He's preferred "type" of woman, to which Wang Lu confidently replied that her natural, peerless beauty was all the preparation needed.
Wang Lu and the Wang Wu clone then executed their honey trap. Wang Lu, disguised as a crude father named Wang Mazi, loudly proclaimed at the entrance of Elder He's mansion that he was selling his tearful daughter (the Wang Wu clone) due to gambling debts. A suspicious guard questioned Wang Lu's paternity, but Wang Lu cleverly deflected, feigning anger and threatening to sell Wang Wu to a brothel.
Mr. Zhou, drawn by the commotion and Wang Wu's striking beauty, quickly stepped in. He offered to purchase her, demanding the deed of sale from Wang Lu, who readily accepted the payment and departed. The Wang Wu clone then theatrically pledged her eternal gratitude and service to Mr. Zhou for "saving" her. Mr. Zhou brought her directly to his master's chambers, instructing her simply to "serve him well."
Inside, the Wang Wu clone mentally reminded herself that her actions were for the greater good of eliminating the evil cult, not for the two thousand spirit stones, insisting her soul remained pure. The Six Stars Envoy, revealed to be Elder He himself, approached her with intent. As he tried to caress her, the Wang Wu clone prepared to proceed, but Elder He abruptly stopped.
To her shock and fury, he declared his dissatisfaction with her "figure," deeming her too flat-chested for his taste, and immediately ordered his servants to throw her out. Wang Wu's clone, humiliated and fuming, reunited with Wang Lu. She angrily scolding him for the failed plan, but Wang Lu attempted to soothe her, explaining that Elder He simply had poor taste.
Wang Wu, still enraged, sarcastically suggested that the Innkeeper, Feng Ling, with her "girlish face and lack of figure," would have been Elder He's "perfect match." Wang Lu playfully offered to let Wang Wu fetch Feng Ling and keep the two thousand spirit stones, a proposition Wang Wu almost accepted before Wang Lu quickly backtracked with more flattery.
Wang Lu then revealed his new, audacious plan: he had found another candidate for the honey trap, and Wang Wu's role would simply be to intervene at the crucial moment to subdue Elder He. Though skeptical, Wang Wu was intrigued. To her astonishment, Wang Lu dramatically unveiled his new persona: he had cross-dressed himself as a stunning young woman. Wang Wu, momentarily speechless, complimented his beauty but cautioned him about the extreme "sacrifice" involved.
Wang Lu reassured her that he was "selling his art, not his body," and warned her that she must be ready to intervene immediately if Elder He made any untoward advances. With a confident flourish, Wang Lu set off towards the mansion in his new disguise.
Episode 18 Recap
Wang Lu, disguised as a woman and feigning drunkenness, approached the mansion. Mr. Zhou, finding him attractive and suitable for the Six Stars Envoy, had him brought inside. However, the Six Stars Envoy immediately saw through Wang Lu's disguise and attacked with his "Quake Prison" technique. Wang Lu loudly called for his Master to save him. Unexpectedly, Wang Wu's paper doppelganger appeared and swiftly knocked out the Envoy.
When the Six Stars Envoy regained consciousness, he was defiant, proclaiming himself a high-ranking member of the Qianling Sect and threatening revenge. However, under the joint threats and stern gazes of Wang Lu and Wang Wu's doppelganger, his arrogance quickly vanished, and he begged for mercy. Meanwhile, Mr. Zhou discovered Elder He (the Six Stars Envoy)'s disappearance. Instead of being worried, he was secretly relieved, viewing Elder He as a troublesome superior.
Fearing repercussions for bringing Wang Lu into the mansion, Mr. Zhou murdered the guard who had overheard him expressing his relief. He then staged Elder He's death, claiming the body was covered in potent poison to prevent anyone from examining it closely. Mr. Zhou publicly announced Elder He's heroic martyrdom, commanded everyone to keep the matter a secret to avoid implicating themselves, and promptly assumed Elder He's position as the elder of the Wuhou County branch.
Wang Lu attempted to extract information about the Qianling Sect's leader and headquarters from Elder He, but the captive claimed ignorance, stating he was only a low-ranking envoy responsible for Wuhou County affairs. Wang Lu shifted his questions to local matters, asking about the "Holy Girls." Elder He revealed that the girls were abducted from across the country.
He explained that the Qianling Sect Leader used illusion magic to control their will, and if they resisted, they were forced to take a poison that bound them for life. Elder He also revealed his past as a former inner disciple of the righteous Qingchuan Sect, expelled for breaking rules.
He joined the Qianling Sect because its "Qian Yuan Ran Xue Gong" offered a shortcut to cultivation for those with mediocre talent, a common draw for many Qianling elders who were formerly from righteous sects but faced cultivation bottlenecks. He further admitted that immense wealth was another powerful lure, with major branches earning millions in spirit stones annually.
However, Elder He insisted that the true perpetrator of these evils, and the one possessing the antidote, was none other than Zhou Mingrui. Among the Holy Girls, Lan, having heard about Elder He's "death," saw an opportunity. She tried to convince the other Holy Girls that their memories were erased and they should seek the antidote and escape. However, the other girls, still deeply brainwashed and bound by their oaths to the Qianling Sect, threatened to expose her.
Just then, Zhou Mingrui, now styling himself as Elder Zhou, arrived. Lan was reported and immediately taken into custody. Zhou Mingrui brought Lan to his private room, intending to fulfill his long-suppressed desires, but his actions were interrupted by a guard reporting the appearance of threatening notes left by "assassins." The "assassins" were actually Liu Li Xian, Hai Yunfan, and Wen Bao.
Wen Bao was about to reveal that Liu Li Xian had a sudden "internal emergency" (needing to use the toilet), forcing their strategic retreat. However, Hai Yunfan quickly interjected and claimed "he" was the one who had the emergency, explaining that he did so to spare Liu Li Xian the embarrassment of admitting such a thing as a girl, and to prevent Wang Lu from endlessly teasing her.
Liu Li Xian, touched by Hai Yunfan's kindness, which he offered partly because he remembered her previously helping "him" cover up at the Scripture Depository, considered him her closest friend. To show his continued care, Hai Yunfan drew a "Tasting Charm" for Liu Li Xian, which would change color if food was spoiled, ensuring she could enjoy her meals safely.
Overjoyed, Liu Li Xian declared Hai Yunfan her "best, best, best friend forever" and promised to continue covering for him if he wished to visit the Scripture Depository again. She then asked him to call her "Xiao Liuli." Wang Lu, having learned from Elder He that the Qianling Sect's influence was deeply rooted in people's desires and that directly exposing them would be ineffective, decided on a bold new strategy: to create his own sect.
He proposed the name "Bureau of Loving Heart Contribution for the Nine Provinces," abbreviated as "Heart Sect," aiming to be a force for good. To garner public attention and involve his Master, he suggested a "beautiful endorser." Wang Wu's paper doppelganger, susceptible to flattery about her "peerless beauty" and "fairy-like demeanor," readily agreed to be the "national idol."
Wang Lu assigned Wang Wu's doppelganger to prepare musical content and tasked Hai Yunfan and Liu Li Xian with creating slogans for their fan club. The real Wang Wu, still in Lingjian Mountain undergoing critical recovery from the Liumang poisonous blood within the Three-Talent Formation, was furious to discover her doppelganger was being used for a "concert" and singing "that song."
Her junior brother reminds her that her Unbreakable Sword Bone should make her immune to poisons, and Wang Wu speculates that Hai Tiankuo's Liumang poisonous blood showed unusual sentience and understanding of her cultivation methods. Recognizing this as suspicious, she vows to settle the score with Wang Lu and confront Hai Tiankuo once her recovery is complete, despite being warned to remain undisturbed in the formation.
While Zhou Mingrui publicly announced his ascension as the new Qianling Sect elder for Wuhou County, Wang Lu's grand concert for Wang Wu's doppelganger began. The stunning performance immediately drew all the commoners away from Zhou Mingrui's proclamation. During the show, a prop unexpectedly fell. Wang Lu "heroically" rushed onto the stage, "saving" Wang Wu's doppelganger and effortlessly helping her continue the performance.
As they performed, Wang Wu's doppelganger saw the lingering image of her Senior brother Ouyang Shang in Wang Lu's shadow. This emotional vision caused her to falter, as she momentarily mistook Wang Lu for Ouyang Shang and was overwhelmed by past memories. Noticing the doppelganger's distraction and identifying it as a paper figure, Zhou Mingrui, now enraged by the interruption to his speech, seized the opportunity. He cast a spell, and with a burst of fire, completely destroyed Wang Wu's paper doppelganger on stage.
Episode 19 Recap
When Wang Wu's paper figure ambassador inexplicably disappeared from the stage, Wang Lu quickly adapted the situation, declaring that it was part of their Goddess Butterfly's rebirth as the Heavenly Butterfly, who rises from ashes. Hai Yunfan skillfully assisted by conjuring an illusion of a magnificent butterfly, which was met with enthusiastic cheers from the audience, leading to widespread support for the Heart Sect.
However, Wang Lu's impromptu impersonation of Senior brother Shang during the performance caused Wang Wu, who was recuperating, to experience intense emotional turmoil, almost leading her to suffer qi deviation and resulting in the burning of Wang Lu's paper figure. With their ambassador gone, Wang Lu decided they would take the stage themselves. Observing the imbalanced male-to-female ratio among Qianling Sect's followers, Wang Lu recognized a large untapped female market in Wuhou County.
He proposed creating a boy band, a counterpart to Qianling Sect's Fairy Group, to attract female followers. Wang Lu had his eyes on the handsome Hai Yunfan and the endearing Wen Bao. He explained that a successful boy band wouldn't rely on superior musical talent or mere good looks, but rather on cultivated personas and individuality to captivate the entire town.
Wen Bao, expressing doubts about his tone-deafness and weight, was reassured by Wang Lu that personalized images and even auto-tuning or lip-syncing with magic could make them stars. Meanwhile, a furious Zhou Mingrui ordered his Fairy Group to intensify their rehearsals, instructing them to mimic any new tactics from the Heart Sect to win back their lost followers. As the next day's performance approached, Hai Yunfan struggled to meet Wang Lu's demanding standards for a "trainee" debut.
He practiced through the night, but Liu Li xian, observing his efforts, realized his approach was flawed. Drawing on her own master's teachings that martial arts are honed in combat, she suggested that dancing, too, requires a partner. Liu Li xian then volunteered to be his partner, accompanying him in practice. With her help, Hai Yunfan's dancing gained a new vibrancy, and their synchronized movements allowed them to perfectly execute the routine.
The Qianling Sect's Fairy Group's performances became repetitive, causing their audience to gradually drift away to the Heart Sect's stage. Hai Yunfan and Wen Bao debuted as the "Heart Boys," delivering an energetic performance that electrified the crowd, who chanted their names. Wen Bao was showered with gifts and affection from his new fans, marking a successful first battle for the Heart Boys. Wang Lu remained curious about Qianling Sect's motive for collecting the villagers' blood.
He questioned He Lao, a former Six Stars Envoy, who admitted he had no knowledge of its true purpose, stating that it was beyond his authority, and they were only instructed to collect it without asking its destination. During this discussion, Hai Yunfan noticed Liu Li xian was missing and went to search for her. Later that night, Liu Li xian was walking alone when she encountered a drunkard who tried to lure her with food.
Fortunately, Hai Yunfan arrived just in time, preventing the drunkard from succeeding. Hai Yunfan admonished Liu Li xian about her gluttony, warning her that even delicious food could be used by evil cultivators to trick her. Liu Li xian promised to be less greedy and to fight off bad people like Hai Yunfan did. Hai then offered to take her to a corn shop that stayed open late.
As they walked away, Zhou Mingrui spotted them, forming a malicious plan to ruin Hai Yunfan's public image by fabricating a scandal. The following day, Wang Lu, Hai Yunfan, and Wen Bao once again delivered a captivating performance. Their heartfelt singing, combined with the enchanting dance moves of Hai Yunfan and Liu Li xian, drove the women of Wuhou County into a frenzy.
Immediately after the performance, Zhou Mingrui had the same drunkard from the previous night publicly accuse Hai Yunfan and Liu Li xian of having an illicit affair and deceiving the public. The agitated crowd, believing the accusations, began to berate and insult Hai Yunfan and Liu Li xian. Overwhelmed by the commotion and insults, Liu Li xian became deeply distressed and fainted. After a long silence, Wang Lu stepped forward and began to spin a moving tale.
He described Hai Yunfan and Liu Li xian as childhood sweethearts. He recounted a tragic incident where Liu Li xian suffered a severe head injury while protecting Hai Yunfan during a mission to save innocent villagers, causing her to lose all her memories and develop the mentality of a five or six-year-old. Wang Lu emphasized Hai Yunfan's unwavering devotion, his vow to protect her for life, even knowing she would never recall their past.
This poignant story successfully moved the crowd, who were deeply touched and chose to believe and forgive them. Moved by Wang Lu's story, Hai Yunfan recognized the Junhuang Mountain Hai clan's badge on Liu Li xian. This triggered a memory from four years ago when he, as a young boy, had secretly left Junhuang Mountain and stumbled upon a massacre. He found a young girl, Liu Li xian, alive amidst the chaos and rescued her.
When she woke up, she mistook him for a foe and inadvertently injured him. Despite this, Hai Yunfan diligently cared for her, foraging for herbs and cooking for her. Noticing her wariness, he even hid a sound player charm in a paper rabbit he made for her, which amused her despite her quick discovery of the trick. He told her, "As long as you hang on, there'll be hope." When his family's search party neared, he had to leave quickly.
Before departing, he revealed his name and origin, and gave her his family badge, instructing her to use it as a token to find him at Junhuang Mountain someday. Recalling this, Hai Yunfan realized that Liu Li xian was the same girl he had saved and cared for years ago.
Episode 20 Recap
Hai Yunfan, recalling his past with Liu Li xian, earnestly tried to awaken her, calling out her name and urging her to recognize him. Observing this, Wang Lu praised Hai Yunfan's acting and improvisational skills, deeming them almost as good as his own.
He then continued to elaborate on the poignant tale for the onlookers, explaining how the hero, out of selfless love, concealed his feelings because Liu Li xian had lost all memory of him, not wishing his affection to become a burden. Wang Lu emphasized the importance of cherishing loved ones to avoid regret, declaring this sentiment the founding principle of his Heart Sect.
He concluded by praying for Liu Li xian to regain her memories soon so that she and Hai Yunfan could begin a new life together. As if on cue, Liu Li xian awoke, prompting Hai Yunfan to immediately ask if she remembered him or the badge. Liu Li xian claimed she only remembered her father giving her the badge.
The crowd, deeply moved by Wang Lu's story, expressed their sadness that Liu Li xian had lost her memories, wishing her a happy life and quick recovery. Wang Lu noted Liu Li xian's precise timing for the dramatic reveal of her memory loss, calling it a "killer move."
Suddenly, the drunkard who had initially accused Hai Yunfan tried to flee but was caught and forced to confess that Zhou Mingrui of the Qianling Sect had coerced him through threats against his wife and son. Later that night, Wang Lu, disguised as Elder He, confronted Zhou Mingrui.
Zhou Mingrui, believing the real Elder He was dead, arrogantly boasted about controlling all affairs of the Qianling Sect in Wuhou County, including abducting the Holy Girls, whom he blamed for their own vanity and greed. He dismissed Elder He as an "ungrateful dog" and warned Wang Lu not to incur the Hierarch's wrath.
Unbeknownst to Zhou, Wang Lu had brought others to overhear his confession, which he then revealed, still Zhou Mingrui remained defiant and attempted to order his subordinates to capture Wang Lu. However, the real Elder He then appeared, immediately terrifying Zhou, who dropped to his knees, begged for his life, and promised to publicly expose all of Qianling Sect's wrongdoings.
Elder He, furious, intended to kill Zhou on the spot, but Wang Lu intervened, demanding that Zhou first hand over the antidote for the Holy Girls. Zhou promptly complied. Wang Lu then instructed Wen Bao to distribute the antidote and advised the rescued girls to be cautious. Wang Lu spared Zhou Mingrui's life, recognizing his influence over the villagers.
He ordered Zhou to publicly denounce the Qianling Sect's misdeeds and ardently promote the Heart Sect, which Zhou obediently agreed to do. Wang Lu further assured one of the rescued girls, Lan, that his palm reading prediction of her marrying a wealthy, loving man would come true. Back at Wang Mansion, a grand feast was held to celebrate the return of harmony to the village. Wang Lu's mother praised him for his accomplishments.
Wang Lu, ever confident, boasted about his future as an Elder or even Sect Leader of the Lingjian Sect. Amidst the festivities, Hai Yunfan tried multiple times to speak with Wang Lu about Liu Li xian, but Wang Lu kept deflecting, instead urging him to drink.
Hai Yunfan tried to clarify that his "performance" with Liu Li xian was "not acting," but Wang Lu playfully misinterpreted it as Hai Yunfan having romantic feelings for her, a "serious crime" for a disciple, and continued to make him drink. Meanwhile, Liu Li xian, enjoying the feast, also drank heavily.
Hai Yunfan tried once more to ask Liu Li xian about the badge she carried, mentioning he had given it to her after saving her near Junhuang Mountain four years ago. Liu Li xian, however, insisted her master found it on her and dismissed his story as a "cliché" used to deceive young girls. Eventually, Liu Li xian became completely intoxicated and passed out, prompting Wang Lu to tell Hai Yunfan to take her to her room.
Unbeknownst to the revelers, Qianling Sect assassins, led by Chief Gao Qiao Lan, were lying in ambush, waiting for everyone to be completely drunk before launching their attack. Wang Lu, however, sensed the danger and knew they were outmatched. He left Elder He to confront the assassins, quipping that Elder He was skilled with women, while he (with Wen Bao) sought help. Wang Lu knew there was no other recourse than to seek help from the sword spirit Liang Qiu.
Meanwhile, back at Lingjian Mountain, Wang Wu sensed Wang Lu was in danger and moved to help him, but other elders stopped her, reminding her of the Six-Star Blood Poison afflicting her and the ongoing treatment she needed. They assured her that Wang Lu, possessing the Kunshan Sword and accompanied by Liang Qiu (the Black Frost Sword spirit), would be safe.
Wang Wu, though annoyed, reluctantly agreed, emphasizing that her concern for Wang Lu was purely for the success of her "Wuxiang Sword Bone" experiment, not personal affection. Back at the banquet, Wang Lu desperately pleaded with Liang Qiu, flattering her by declaring her the true perfect match for Ouyang Shang and dismissing Wang Wu by claiming she had self-immolated to undergo tribulation. Pleased by the praise, Liang Qiu agreed to help.
After taking Liu Li xian to her room, Hai Yunfan pondered why neither he nor Liu Li xian remembered the events of that fateful day. At the critical moment, Wang Lu, now empowered by Liang Qiu, arrived with Hai Yunfan and Wen Bao, turning the tide of the chaotic fight against Elder He and the assassins. During the fight, Zhou Mingrui attempted to escape but was promptly killed by Wen Bao.
Witnessing the tide turn, Gao Qiao ordered a full retreat for the assassins. Wang Lu, observing their sudden withdrawal, immediately suspected a diversion. He realized Liu Li xian was the only one missing and concluded she was their true target. Rushing to her room, they confirmed she had been abducted by Qianling Sect.
Wang Lu deduced that Liu Li xian must be more important to Qianling Sect than the Holy Girls, especially given her recent erratic behavior since descending the mountain. He speculated that she might have been brainwashed, similar to the villager Lan, and pondered the connection between her abduction and Qianling Sect's collection of blood. They decided their next objective was the Qianling Sect headquarters. Wang Lu and his group arrived at Yunli Pier.
Elder He explained that this area was under the jurisdiction of Lord Tianlun, the Head of Almighty Sect. Wang Lu remarked on Qianling Sect's audacity to operate directly under Lord Tianlun's nose, concluding that either Qianling Sect was incredibly secretive, or they had bribed Lord Tianlun, indicating that Almighty Sect was the only force they truly feared.
Wang Lu proposed a feint: he and Elder He would directly confront the Qianling Sect in their main hall, while Hai Yunfan and Wen Bao simultaneously rescued Liu Li xian. To infiltrate the headquarters, Wang Lu and Elder He donned robes of Almighty Sect Elders, planning to assert their authority and gain entry. Hai Yunfan and Wen Bao soon located Liu Li xian. To avoid alerting the enemy, Hai Yunfan instructed Wen Bao to wait while he approached her alone.
Hai Yunfan tried to remind Liu Li xian of their shared history, including their joint training, their adventures with Wang Lu and Wen Bao, and how he had saved her four years ago near Junhuang Mountain, giving her the badge as a memento. However, Liu Li xian, now calling herself Ye Li, the Empress of Qianling Sect, claimed no memory of him or their companions.
She dismissed his story as a "cliché" used to trick young girls and warned him to leave or face severe consequences. As this exchange unfolded, Wen Bao, who was waiting nearby, was suddenly ambushed, finding a blade at his throat. Meanwhile, Wang Lu and Elder He burst into Qianling Sect's main hall, ready to confront the Hierarch. To their utter shock, the Hierarch of the Qianling Sect was none other than Lord Tianlun himself, the Head of Almighty Sect. Wang Lu, stunned, declared the plot absurd.
Episode 21 Recap
Disguised as a Wanfa Xianmen elder, Wang Lu, accompanied by He Elder, boldly confronted Lord Tianlun, the mysterious leader of the Qianling Sect. Wang Lu initially tried to intimidate Lord Tianlun, but upon realizing he was in the presence of the true sect leader, he quickly changed his tune. He attempted to leverage his identity as the successor disciple of Wang Wu, a Master of the Lingjian Sect, hoping to find common ground.
However, Lord Tianlun immediately recognized Wang Wu as the "crazy woman" who had destroyed a branch of the Qianling Sect, declaring that Wang Lu, as her disciple, must pay her debt with his life. Wang Lu frantically tried to disavow his master, even offering to report her to the Lingjian Sect's leader, but Lord Tianlun, seeing through his desperation, ordered their capture, mocking them for their shamelessness.
Meanwhile, Wang Zhong, on a trial mission, stumbled upon news of the Heart Sect, a rapidly growing organization founded by Wang Lu that promised its followers prolonged life. He reported this to Zhu Qin, who was skeptical, knowing that traditional cultivation required Spirit Roots, which common people lacked. Zhu Qin suspected Wang Lu was using illicit methods, perhaps even teaching evil magic.
Despite Wang Zhong's initial hesitation, recalling Wang Lu's past kindness, Zhu Qin, reflecting on his own growth, determined that harming innocent people was an unforgivable act. He resolved to report Wang Lu to Master Fang He, hoping for a lenient punishment while still preventing Wang Lu from straying further. Concurrently, Hai Yunfan and Wen Bao had finally located Liu Li Xian within the Qianling Sect headquarters.
To Hai Yunfan's dismay, Liu Li Xian, who introduced herself as Ye Li, denied knowing him or anyone from the Lingjian Sect, even destroying a significant badge he had given her years ago. Just as Hai Yunfan desperately tried to remind her of their shared past, Lord Tianlun appeared. He revealed that Wang Lu and Wen Bao were already his captives and offered Hai Yunfan a chance to live if he knelt and remained with his daughter, Ye Li.
Ye Li, however, coldly stated she didn't know him and had no desire for his company. This prompted Lord Tianlun to change his mind, ordering Hai Yunfan to join Wang Lu and the others to their deaths. Seemingly to save them, Ye Li hastily intervened, suggesting that Wang Lu and Hai Yunfan possessed rare Spirit Roots and that Wang Lu's Void Spirit Root made them ideal candidates for a blood sacrifice to the Blood Matrix during the upcoming moon eclipse.
This would prolong their lives for a few more hours, buying them time. Lord Tianlun praised her foresight, declaring it an honor for them to be sacrificed for the Blood Matrix. Imprisoned together with He Elder, Hai Yunfan despaired over Ye Li's apparent heartlessness. However, Wang Lu, ever the strategist, saw through her actions.
He explained to a bewildered Hai Yunfan that Ye Li's cold demeanor and her suggestion of a blood sacrifice were merely a clever ruse to delay their immediate execution. Had she truly wished them dead, she could have easily done so when Hai Yunfan first intruded. Her actions were a desperate attempt to buy them time and save their lives, a "delaying tactic." Realizing their dire predicament, Wang Lu decided to call upon Wang Wu for help.
Knowing his master's eccentricities and her deep attachment to her senior disciple, Ouyang Shang, Wang Lu concocted a lie, claiming to have found a major secret about Ouyang Shang at the Qianling Sect headquarters. Wang Wu, who was still recovering from a severe poisoning, immediately abandoned her healing regimen and rushed off. Other Lingjian elders expressed concern for her health and hoped Wang Lu had not lied, fearing her disappointment.
Wang Lu also attempted to enlist Liang Qiu's aid, but the sword spirit, still annoyed by his deceitful nature, refused to help him. Back in the prison, Ye Li secretly released Wang Lu, Hai Yunfan, and Wen Bao, urging them to escape through the back mountain. She reiterated her stance that she was not the "Liu Li Xian" they knew, and she only freed them to prevent further unnecessary sacrifices.
Hai Yunfan, however, refused to abandon her, pledging to "fall with her." Seeing the stalemate and the approaching danger, Wang Lu knocked Hai Yunfan unconscious, then prompted Ye Li to lead them out. Lord Tianlun, who had observed the exchange, revealed to his subordinate, Takashi Arashi, that he allowed them to escape because he could see Ye Li's affection for Hai Yunfan and did not wish to cause her pain, especially with his grand plan nearing completion.
Hai Yunfan awoke outside, furious at Wang Lu for knocking him out and seemingly abandoning Ye Li to her fate. Wang Lu patiently explained that knocking him out was a tactical necessity to ensure their escape and that their ultimate goal was always to rescue Ye Li. He reminded them of their promise that "no one can leave us." With He Elder positioned as their external contact, Wang Lu, Hai Yunfan, and Wen Bao set off for the sacrificial altar.
As the auspicious hour arrived, Lord Tianlun began the ritual at the Blood Matrix. He chanted ancient spells, activating the formation. Black Tide, a monstrous and destructive force, was heard approaching, its presence palpable. Lord Tianlun comforted a terrified Ye Li, promising to join her after she completed her sacrifice and the seal was repaired.
Just as he was about to make the final cut to begin the blood sacrifice, Wang Lu, Hai Yunfan, and Wen Bao burst onto the scene. Driven by desperation, Hai Yunfan immediately charged at Lord Tianlun but was easily defeated and knocked unconscious. Wang Lu then stepped forward, holding up a Frozen Charm and threatening to freeze the entire Blood Matrix, rendering it useless.
Seeing the imminent danger posed by Black Tide, Lord Tianlun reluctantly agreed to release Ye Li from the sacrifice. He then trapped Wang Lu and Ye Li within a powerful Ice Barrier, created from his primordial spirit, and turned to face the incoming Black Tide alone. Inside the barrier, Wang Lu witnessed the horrifying advance of the Black Tide, remembering its devastating impact on the world over a century ago.
He realized that Lord Tianlun's true purpose was not to cultivate an evil magic, but to repair the Qingmu Mark, a crucial seal that held back the destructive Black Tide. Ye Li confirmed Wang Lu's theory, revealing the full, tragic truth.
Lord Tianlun's extreme actions, including driving away his brother, Lord Dilun, killing his wife, all his concubines, and dozens of their children, were all part of a desperate, decade-long plan to collect enough blood to reactivate the Blood Matrix and reinforce the failing Qingmu Mark. He had left only Ye Li alive because her pure bloodline was the most potent for the ultimate sacrifice.
She recounted how, four years prior, she had begun collecting blood through slaughter under her father's orders, but was stopped by Elder Ao Guanhai, who reported the Qianling Sect's actions to the Immortal Union. Forced to cease the killings, Lord Tianlun resorted to manipulating people into "donating" their blood to the Heart Sect. Ye Li confirmed that her "Liu Li Xian" persona was a result of being taken in by Elder Ao, who believed her to be a victim.
Her father had allowed her to remain at Lingjian Sect until the "Blood Moon" approached, signifying the time for the final sacrifice. Wang Lu was stunned by the immense, horrifying sacrifices Lord Tianlun had made, but Ye Li maintained there was no other way, comparing it to an inevitable "exchange of pieces" in a game of chess. Despite Lord Tianlun's monumental efforts, the formation he had painstakingly prepared could not hold back the might of the Black Tide.
The malevolent force surged forward, overwhelming him and consuming his body. His eyes turned black, his form twisted, and Lord Tianlun, once a desperate protector, was transformed into a monstrous, indiscriminate demon.
Episode 22 Recap
Lord Tianlun, fully consumed by the Black Tide, violently attacked his own subordinates before turning his attention to the unconscious Hai Yunfan and Wen Bao. Wang Lu immediately intervened, wielding his Kunshan sword to shatter the barrier Lord Tianlun had erected, and confronted the possessed figure. Despite fighting with the Kunshan sword, Wang Lu was no match for the corrupted Lord Tianlun and was severely wounded.
Seeing Lord Tianlun about to strike Wang Lu down, Liu Li Xian bravely stepped forward. She tearfully called out to her father, "Father! It’s me! I’m A-Li!" Her desperate pleas briefly pierced through Lord Tianlun’s clouded mind, but it was only for a moment. He quickly relapsed and struck Liu Li Xian down. Just then, Master Wang arrived.
Without waiting for Wang Lu to explain the situation, she swiftly engaged Lord Tianlun, understanding that subduing him, now possessed by the Black Tide, was paramount to prevent widespread devastation. Master Wang was still recovering from her own injuries, and to make matters worse, the Luna Eclipse intensified the Liumang Poisonous Blood within her, severely weakening her. Lord Tianlun mocked her, noting that she could barely protect herself, let alone stop him.
Despite their individual struggles, Master Wang and Wang Lu exchanged a determined glance. They understood that if the Black Tide broke its confinement and shattered the Qingmu Mark, the entire world would be ravaged. They synchronized their attacks, striking Lord Tianlun with their swords. Still, their combined efforts were insufficient. In a critical moment, Liu Li Xian once again pushed forward to restrain Lord Tianlun, who, having lost all reason, could no longer be reasoned with or even approached.
Her courageous act created an opening, allowing Master Wang and Wang Lu to finally overcome the demon-possessed Lord Tianlun. With the Black Tide temporarily controlled, Liu Li Xian chose to sacrifice herself. She entrusted Hai Yunfan’s care to Wang Lu and walked towards the sacrificial altar, offering her blood. Before she could fully comprehend, Wang Lu also joined her, offering his own blood.
Liu Li Xian was surprised, but Wang Lu explained that as a chosen one with a spirit root, his blood might also prove valuable. The Blood Matrix was successfully activated by their combined sacrifice, sealing the Qingmu Mark and preventing the Black Tide from fully emerging. After the successful sacrifice, Ye Li's body succumbed, but the innocent Liu Li Xian persona (Little Liu Li) remained.
With her last breaths, Ye Li asked Wang Lu to care for Liu Li Xian, ensuring she could continue to live a simple, happy life. She then made a final plea to Master Wang, asking her to cast a spell on Hai Yunfan to erase all his memories of Ye Li. Ye Li revealed her past: four years prior, while on a blood-gathering mission, she was severely wounded by a practitioner.
Hai Yunfan, mistaking her for a victim, nursed her back to health. He brought light into her dark life, making her question her murderous ways and leading to the development of the Liu Li Xian personality. Despite the deep affection, Ye Li lacked the courage to reveal her true identity and cast an Oblivious Charm on him before he left.
When they reunited at Lingjian sect, Ye Li, under the guise of Liu Li Xian, secretly aided Hai Yunfan, but she deliberately spoke cruel words to him at Qianling Sect to push him away when he recovered his memories. Knowing that Hai Yunfan carried a burden of secrets and hatred, Ye Li urged Wang Lu to stay by Hai Yunfan’s side and help him overcome his darkness, allowing him to live in the light.
Wang Lu promised to do so, and with a final expression of gratitude for having met them, Ye Li passed away. Master Wang honored Ye Li's dying wish and erased Hai Yunfan's memories. When Hai Yunfan awoke, he felt a strange, inexplicable emptiness, as if something important had vanished from his heart. Everyone around him feigned normalcy, and Wang Lu reassured him that Lord Tianlun had been defeated and Liu Li Xian was merely asleep.
He then instructed Hai Yunfan to take Liu Li Xian back to rest. Later, Wang Lu asked Master Wang about the injury she sustained during the Luna Eclipse. Master Wang initially tried to dismiss it, claiming she was just drunk. However, Wang Lu revealed that Ling, the owner of the inn, had told him about Master Wang's monthly ordeal with the Liumang Poisonous Blood, which caused her immense pain during the full moon.
To alleviate her suffering, Wang Lu offered her a Mafeisan pill, a remedy he learned about from his childhood friend Lan, typically used to relieve monthly pains in women. The medicine surprisingly eased Master Wang's discomfort, much to her surprise and Wang Lu’s teasing about her "old age." Before departing, Master Wang informed Wang Lu that Lingjian sect had learned about his establishment of the Heart Sect.
She warned him that Elder Fang He was already on his way to investigate, having been tipped off by Zhu Qin. While Master Wang left to pursue a spiritual treasure that had emerged from the battle formation, Wang Lu devised a plan. He instructed Wen Bao to meet Elder He at Light Mansion for a crucial mission, entrusting him with the future of the Heart Sect.
Meanwhile, Liu Li Xian fully awakened, her mind reverted to her innocent, childlike state, with no recollection of the recent traumatic events or her past with Hai Yunfan, whose own memories of her had also been erased. Hai Yunfan patiently explained that they were at Qianling Sect headquarters and that he had rescued her from Lord Tianlun.
Their reunion was cut short by the arrival of Elder Fang He and Elder Ao Guan Hai, who sternly commanded Liu Li Xian to kneel, accusing her of aiding Lord Tianlun in the slaughter of innocent civilians. Confused, Liu Li Xian asked about her father, prompting the elders to bluntly inform her of Lord Tianlun's death. The devastating news, combined with the accusation of her involvement, overwhelmed Liu Li Xian, causing her to faint once more.
Wang Lu immediately stepped forward, acting as Liu Li Xian's advocate. He explained that Liu Li Xian's mind was akin to that of a five or six-year-old, and she had no knowledge of her father's identity or his dark deeds. He argued that revealing such a cruel truth to her was inhumane. Elder Fang He countered, asserting the severity of Liu Li Xian's supposed crimes and his authority as a penal master.
Wang Lu conceded that Lord Tianlun had indeed orchestrated the massacres, but he clarified that the true purpose was to collect blood for a ritual to repair the Qingmu Mark and seal the impending Black Tide, drawing a parallel to a similar heroic act by Ouyang Shang a century ago. He suggested the elders use Lingjian sect’s Star Divination technique to verify his claims.
The elders confirmed the truth of Wang Lu's account regarding the Black Tide and Lord Tianlun’s intentions. However, they maintained that the act of slaughtering innocents remained a grave crime. Wang Lu used an analogy of two eggs—one representing thousands of lives sacrificed, the other representing millions saved—to illustrate the impossible ethical dilemma Lord Tianlun faced, emphasizing that he was not purely evil and had prepared to die for his actions.
The elders were left speechless, unable to argue with the profound complexity of the situation. To definitively prove Liu Li Xian's innocence, Wang Lu explained her split personalities: the cruel and obedient Ye Li, who had indeed participated in the massacres, and the naive, innocent Liu Li Xian, who was unaware of her father's identity or involvement in any killings. He asserted that the Ye Li personality was now gone.
To test this, he challenged Elder Fang He to severely insult Lord Tianlun in front of Liu Li Xian. If the Ye Li personality was still present, she would react violently due to her filial devotion. Elder Fang He reluctantly agreed, and upon hearing his harsh words, Liu Li Xian, completely bewildered, showed no aggression. Instead, she offered him water, innocently asking who he was so angry at.
This proved that the pure-hearted Liu Li Xian was the only personality remaining. Convinced that the Ye Li persona was truly gone, Elder Fang He declared the matter resolved for Liu Li Xian. He stated he would take her back to Lingjian sect for close supervision, with the understanding that further action would be taken only if her alternate personality resurfaced. With Liu Li Xian's case settled, Elder Fang He then turned his attention to Wang Lu, ready to address the matter of his unauthorized creation of the Heart Sect.
Episode 23 Recap
Wang Lu faced the Lingjian sect elders, including Fang He, who accused him of establishing a cult. Wang Lu vehemently denied the accusation, asserting that his Heart Sect was not a cult and had never taken money or sought power, but rather encouraged good deeds and love among people. He challenged the elders to test him with the Heart Sword to prove his innocence, despite warnings from others that his cultivation might not be strong enough to withstand it.
Wang Lu declared he was innocent and feared nothing. During the trial, visions of those he had wronged or killed appeared, but Wang Lu remained resolute, believing his actions against them were justified and that they deserved their fate. To the elders’ surprise, he successfully passed the Heart Sword test, confirming his pure intentions. Meanwhile, Wen Bao and He Yun, sent by Wang Lu, attempted to register Heart Sect at Light Mansion.
They were rudely dismissed and ejected by the officials, who refused their application due to incomplete documents and dismissed their pleas for understanding, even accusing them of bribery. Just as they were at a loss, Qianyu, whom Wen Bao had previously rescued, appeared. She was now Li Nana, a centurion at Light Mansion, whose father worked there.
Remembering Wen Bao’s old promise to take responsibility for her if she didn't find a suitable husband, Li Nana proposed that if Wen Bao married her, she would immediately stamp their registration. Despite Wen Bao's hesitation, He Yun quickly agreed on his behalf, prioritizing the sect's legalization and Wang Lu's safety. They successfully obtained the official registration license for Heart Sect. Returning to Wang Lu with the license, they found him still confronting the elders.
Fang He was ordering Wang Lu to disband the sect and return to Lingjian for three years of seclusion. With the official government license in hand, Wang Lu proudly announced that their Heart Sect was now officially renamed Wisdom Sect and was a legitimate organization. This left the elders with no valid reason to force its disbandment.
As Wang Lu declared he would not assume leadership of Wisdom Sect, instead passing the role to He Yun, and affirmed his eternal loyalty to Lingjian sect, the elders, citing an urgent crisis at Almighty Sect, departed. Overjoyed by his unexpected promotion, He Yun expressed profuse gratitude, but before he could fully celebrate, Wang Lu suddenly collapsed. Wang Lu woke up in his family home in Wangjia Village, his parents relieved and worried.
His mother informed him that she had privately arranged his marriage to Xiao Lan, his childhood friend. Sensing his mother's deep concern about his dangerous cultivation path, Wang Lu reluctantly agreed to the marriage, deciding to give up his journey to become an immortal and stay to care for his parents, not wanting to regret not being with them later in life.
To ensure his friends wouldn't try to dissuade him, Wang Lu deliberately alienated Hai Yunfan and Wen Bao, telling them he was abandoning cultivation for a mundane life and belittling their partnership, which successfully angered them into leaving. He then settled into a carefree existence at home, preparing for his wedding. During this time, back at Lingjian sect, the leader Feng Yin summoned Lord Dilun, brother of Lord Tianlun, for a crucial discussion.
Lord Dilun learned the truth: his brother's seemingly cruel act of expelling him years ago was a desperate measure to preserve Almighty Sect’s bloodline. Regretful of his long-standing misunderstanding, Lord Dilun agreed to serve as the acting chief of Almighty Sect.
Using the divination art, Feng Yin then convened a meeting with the leaders of the other Five Sects: Junhuang Mountain’s General Hai Tiankuo, Kunlun’s Nanji Xianweng, and Shengjing’s Deputy Chief Shuiyue, to discuss the attack on Almighty Sect and the destruction of the Qingmu Mark. Lord Dilun raised a troubling suspicion: the Qingmu Mark could only be broken by a leader-level practitioner from the Five Sects, and Lord Tianlun's use of a "heretical spell" suggested external manipulation.
Feng Yin added that Wang Wu was already pursuing the lead. Wang Wu, meanwhile, tracked the mysterious black-robed individual who had stolen the Blood Magic Pearl. Confronting them, Wang Wu accused them of orchestrating Lord Tianlun's actions by exploiting his righteous but extreme nature to repair the Qingmu Seal, all to obtain the Pearl for their own nefarious scheme. Despite the individual's denials, Wang Wu confidently asserted her extensive knowledge, which she attributed to her esteemed senior brother, Ouyang Shang.
A fierce battle ensued. The mysterious individual, seemingly overwhelmed, managed to escape by using an Almighty Sect puppet as a decoy and then trapped Wang Wu with a Six Lights Prison from Junhuang Mountain. However, Wang Wu had anticipated such a move and successfully affixed a tracking charm onto the escapee, ensuring she could continue the pursuit. Back in the village, Xiao Lan sought out Wang Lu.
She revealed her own dream of becoming the top singer in Kyushu and announced her departure for the Girls’ College of Music. Sensing Wang Lu’s inner conflict, she gently encouraged him to pursue his own vast ambitions, assuring him that Wangjia Village was too small to contain him. Unbeknownst to them, Wang Lu’s parents overheard their conversation, finally understanding the true depth of their son’s aspirations. Later, Liang Qiu appeared, confronting Wang Lu about abandoning his path.
Wang Lu explained his deep-seated fear of regretting not spending enough time with his parents, drawing a parallel to Liuli's longing for her own parents. Liang Qiu, in turn, shared her personal struggle with the loss of Ouyang Shang, emphasizing that while he was her life's concern, his absence didn't mean she should abandon her own mission. Everyone, she asserted, has a unique purpose.
Having heard both Xiao Lan’s and Liang Qiu’s words, and understanding their son's true feelings, Wang Lu’s parents made a difficult decision. They playfully "drove him out," pretending to have given up on him and even joked about having another son, "Wang Ermao," to replace him, claiming to be taking herbs for conception. Wang Lu recognized this as their loving way of freeing him to pursue his destiny. Despite the tears of parting, the family shared a moment of profound, unspoken understanding and affection as they prepared for Wang Lu's journey.
Episode 24 Recap
Wang Lu resumed his journey, only to find Hai Yunfan and Wen Bao had been waiting for him outside Wang Family Village for seven days. Wen Bao initially claimed Hai Yunfan predicted Wang Lu would eventually leave, which Hai Yunfan promptly denied, insisting they were merely traveling at a leisurely pace. However, Wang Lu sensed their true eagerness to rejoin him. Relieved, Wen Bao expressed his joy that the trio could finally continue their training together.
Wang Lu confidently declared he would lead them to a place with plenty of culinary delights. They arrived in Jiyang, a city renowned as a top tourist destination for "poor travelers." Hai Yunfan questioned if it was appropriate to visit a resort for cultivation, but Wang Lu explained that true cultivation involves experiencing the world and its people, not just solitary hardship. Convinced, Hai Yunfan agreed, and they enthusiastically entered Jiyang City.
Upon arriving in Jiyang, Wang Lu, eager for a feast, led them to a highly-rated restaurant, Cuizhai. To their surprise, all the dishes served were vegetarian, with no meat. The waiter confirmed it was a vegetarian diner, explaining that in Jiyang, even mentioning "meat" was forbidden. Wang Lu found this city's regulations strange, sarcastically commenting on their "weird tabooed vocabulary" and calling the forced veganism a "bloody slaughter" of plants.
Hai Yunfan suggested it was good for health, but also noticed other diners seemed miserable, prompting him to ask if the vegan diet was voluntary or forced. Under Wang Lu's playful threat of eating a sausage right in the restaurant, the waiter confessed. He revealed that the Beastmastery Sect, located on Yuntai Mountain outside Jiyang, protected the city but imposed strict rules.
While initially prohibiting animal abuse, this year they declared eating meat equivalent to animal slaughter, forcing all citizens into vegetarianism. Wang Lu criticized this as strong-arm tactics, calling it "Saint Mary’s doing," despite Hai Yunfan's attempt to rationalize it as having a "good purpose." The waiter lamented the economic impact, as fewer visitors came, and non-vegan establishments were forcibly closed. Hai Yunfan suggested they simply finish their meal and leave.
Feeling hungry, Wang Lu, Hai Yunfan, and Wen Bao wandered through the city, with Wang Lu even imagining clouds as meat dishes. Their stroll was interrupted when a young woman angrily accused Wen Bao of killing ants, which she considered living beings and family. Wang Lu sarcastically questioned if the Beastmastery Sect's rules had driven the city's inhabitants "insane." In the ensuing argument, the girl dramatically tripped and fell, a scene Wang Lu cynically noted resembled a "romantic novel."
True to his observation, the "four young idols of Jiyang City" dramatically appeared, immediately accusing them of harassing the "innocent" girl. As a fight was about to break out, Feng Ling suddenly intervened, warmly greeting Xue Boren. His brothers affectionately referred to Feng Ling as 'Darling' or 'Sister-in-law,' much to Wang Lu's bewildered confusion. Feng Ling then explained to Boren that the trio were her friends, stating, "They are all our own people."
At the lavish Xue Mansion, Wang Lu found himself in luxurious rooms that he sarcastically noted looked more like a "Palace-themed hotel." Xue Boren apologized for the earlier market misunderstanding, and Feng Ling introduced Wang Lu, Hai Yunfan, and Wen Bao as her friends from Lingjian Sect, along with Xue Boren and his brothers Xue Zhongren, Xue Shuren, and cousin Chai Qi.
Wang Lu, finding their names "plain" despite their "decent family" background, was annoyed by Hai Yunfan's excessive flattery towards Xue Boren, even sarcastically suggesting a "ribbon-cutting ceremony" for their mutual compliments. Feng Ling then dropped a bombshell: Xue Boren was her fiancé. Wang Lu immediately and bluntly stated that "20% of engaged couples end up breaking up" and that seven days was "long enough for affairs, elopement, or abandon."
Feng Ling, losing her "ladylike" facade, angrily confronted Wang Lu, asking if he had a problem with her marriage and threatening to "beat him up." Xue Boren calmly intervened, suggesting Feng Ling catch up with her friends, and he and his brothers departed. Feng Ling then shared her love story with Wang Lu, Hai Yunfan, and Wen Bao.
She recounted how, new to the human world, she encountered Xue Boren during a rainstorm on Yuntai Mountain, where he lent her his umbrella. Later, desiring to improve her cultivation and acquire a spirit beast, she disguised herself as a man and enrolled in the Beastmastery Sect's academy, only to fatefully reunite with Xue Boren on her first day.
Their relationship developed like an idol drama, culminating in Boren’s proposal where he declared he would "give up everything to love her." Wang Lu cynically summarized her tale as a collection of tropes from "romantic novels," expressing his exhaustion. He pointed out the "made-up" feel of everything in Jiyang—from forced veganism and the city's self-proclaimed "love and peace" to the "four young idols" and the "themed-hotel Xue Mansion."
Hai Yunfan and Wen Bao, however, found Xue Boren to be a good match for Feng Ling and dismissed Wang Lu's cynicism as jealousy. Feng Ling, deeply in love, left to find Boren, promising to explain his "perfection" later. Feng Ling went to find Boren. After knocking for a while, Boren finally emerged from his room, quickly suggesting they go out to eat.
Meanwhile, a servant named Lihua, from a separate "Ling Mansion" adjoining Xue Mansion, showed Wang Lu, Hai Yunfan, and Wen Bao to their rooms. Lihua explained that Xue Boren had bought Ling Mansion as a generous betrothal gift for Feng Ling, so she would have a "family" in Jiyang, and her wedding would take place from there in seven days.
Despite Hai Yunfan and Wen Bao's admiration for Boren's thoughtfulness, Wang Lu saw it as an ostentatious display of wealth and remained convinced that Boren was problematic. He expressed concern that Feng Ling, a member of Lingjian Sect and "half my master," was getting involved. Wang Lu realized that if the marriage proceeded, Xue Boren would become family to his master Wang Wu through Feng Ling, which displeased him.
Wang Lu instructed Hai Yunfan and Wen Bao to remain vigilant that night, stating their plan to rescue Feng Ling and leave the following day. Wang Lu, deeply suspicious, tried to contact his master, Wang Wu, via a communication spell, expressing his disbelief that she wasn't reacting to Feng Ling's engagement, joking about her "bestie" being "stolen." Wang Wu, however, was preoccupied. She was in the midst of battling several Golden Pill assassins.
After effortlessly defeating one, she boasted that her Wuxiang Sword Bone had reached its 108th level, making such assassins no match for her. She demanded to know who sent them, threatening to take the defeated assassin back to Lingjian Sect to face Elder Fang He. Just as she pressed for answers, the assassin caught her off guard and launched a surprise attack.
Episode 25 Recap
Wang Lu, ever suspicious of Xue Boren’s intentions towards Feng Ling, found every detail within Xue Mansion questionable. He immediately suspected a sinister plot when Wen Bao went missing one morning, only for Wen Bao to suddenly appear, shattering Wang Lu’s elaborate theories of abduction. Wen Bao explained that he was simply lost in the vast garden all night after following a captivating smell of meat.
Wang Lu then suspected the maid Lihua’s advice to stay indoors and have her lead the way was a tactic to confine them, but Lihua promptly asked them to go to the market for wedding preparations, dispelling that particular concern. Meanwhile, Wang Wu, after being ambushed and wounded, was rescued by Hai Tiankuo. Though Hai Tiankuo claimed to be a close brother of her senior brother Ouyang Shang, Wang Wu remained distrustful.
Hai Tiankuo revealed he knew she had mastered the Wuxiang Sword to its 108th level. He then pressed Wang Wu for information about the black-clad assailant. Wang Wu recounted how the assailant used various unique skills from different sects—including the Kunlun Sect’s Shadow Doppelgänger, the Shengjing Sect’s Flying Flower Command, Junhuang Mountain’s Six-Pronged Light Cage, and the Wanfa Immortal Sect’s Doppelgänger Puppet—before ultimately using the Shengjing Sect’s secret skill, Chazi Yan Hong (Swirl), in a critical moment.
Wang Wu noted that fewer than ten people on the entire Kyushu Island could perform this technique, implying the assailant was from Shengjing Sect. However, Hai Tiankuo suggested the assailant might be a mole from another sect aiming to stir conflict between Shengjing and Junhuang, indicating a need for broader discussion with other elders. He departed, telling Wang Wu to recover and that he desired to be gentle with her, which Wang Wu scoffed at, still considering him an "idiot."
After leaving Wang Wu, Hai Tiankuo encountered Xu Zefang, who had just emerged from six months of secluded practice and learned his brother, Xu Jingtian, had died at Hai Tiankuo’s hands. Xu Zefang accused Hai Tiankuo of killing his brother and demanded an explanation, stating that the Xu family had served Junhuang Mountain for centuries. Hai Tiankuo responded that Xu Jingtian had indeed violated military discipline, and he had simply applied the military law.
Xu Zefang declared a duel to avenge his brother, refusing to kneel to someone he deemed despicable. During their intense battle, Xu Zefang, though talented, was clearly outmatched by Hai Tiankuo. Still, he pressed his accusations, claiming Hai Tiankuo was disloyal, unfilial, inhumane, and unjust, and that the true leader of Junhuang Mountain, Lord Kuqin, would return from his travels to avenge him and his brother. Hai Tiankuo, disappointed by Xu Zefang’s unyielding prejudice, decided to reveal the truth.
He showed Xu Zefang that his parents were actually killed by an unseen assailant that night, not by him, and that he had allowed the false rumors to persist because revealing the true events would cause greater chaos in the unstable world. Realizing the truth, Xu Zefang humbled himself, pledging unwavering loyalty and acknowledging Hai Tiankuo’s heavy burden. Unbeknownst to them, Wang Wu had been secretly listening to their entire conversation.
She learned of Ouyang Shang’s imminent return and resolved to uncover the full truth before leaving Junhuang Mountain. Meanwhile, Wang Lu, Hai Yunfan, and Wen Bao were dining in a Jiyang restaurant when they overheard talk of wolf sightings and wolf demons in the city. Wang Lu found this unusual, especially given Xue Mansion's ability to serve meat when the rest of Jiyang was strictly vegetarian.
Suddenly, a distressed woman, accompanied by officers, burst in, accusing Wang Lu and his companions of abducting her daughter, Miao. Hai Yunfan recalled Miao as the girl they had argued with the previous day for worshipping ants. The mother presented Miao's handkerchief, found near their house, as evidence. Hai Yunfan noted its peculiar, strong scent and the presence of animal hair, though an officer dismissed it as dog hair from a local dog.
Despite their claims of innocence, the officers initially considered Wang Lu and his friends prime suspects due to their recent altercation with Miao. However, upon learning that Wang Lu and his friends were guests of the influential Xue Mansion, the officers' demeanor immediately shifted to deference.
They then confessed that they were hesitant to classify Miao's disappearance as a missing persons case because Jiyang had been plagued by a series of disappearances of young, unmarried girls over the past six months. Adding Miao to this list would bring severe punishment upon them from their superiors. Wang Lu immediately sensed a deeper secret hidden within Jiyang City.
Upon their return to Xue Mansion, Wang Lu keenly observed the maid Lihua repeatedly touching the door knocker in the same manner as Xue Boren, a small detail that deepened his suspicion.
Inside the mansion, Wang Lu noticed a pervasive uniformity: the begonia flowers that should have withered from the previous day's wind were still perfectly in bloom, a stone he had kicked aside in the path had returned to its original spot, the number of butterflies remained consistently at three (two yellow, one blue), and even the caged bird's chirps were the same four notes, three long and one short, every day.
Hai Yunfan, prompted by Wang Lu, also became aware of these unsettling repetitions. Even the servants greeted them with identical smiles and gestures daily, like pre-programmed puppets. Spooked by this eerie, unchanging environment, they decided to feign losing something and went outside to test their theory. As Wang Lu predicted, upon their return, everything inside the mansion had indeed reset to its original state.
Wang Lu sought out Feng Ling, subtly trying to make her see the abnormalities in Jiyang and Xue Mansion. However, Feng Ling, deeply enamored, misunderstood his attempts as an effort to dissuade her from the marriage. Though distracted by her love, she patiently answered his questions.
From Feng Ling, Wang Lu learned that the Xue family's prosperous business was making balms for young girls, and the four Xue brothers possessed an unusually sensitive sense of smell, capable of distinguishing the faintest odors. This fact immediately connected with the peculiar scent Hai Yunfan had noted on Miao’s missing handkerchief.
Feng Ling also revealed that the Xue Mansion had a secret chamber where the balm recipes were stored, a place she was forbidden from entering, a detail that greatly piqued Wang Lu’s interest.
Episode 26 Recap
Feng Ling revealed to Wang Lu that she had experienced visions and felt the restriction within her body loosen several times. Despite these concerning symptoms, she had never shared them with anyone until Wang Lu's arrival. She admitted her deep affection for Xue Boren, which made her reluctant to leave Jiyang City or return to Lingjian Mountain, even for her own safety.
Feng Ling also mentioned a secret chamber in the mansion, the only place she was not allowed to enter. Xue Boren had told her it housed their family’s ancestral balm prescriptions, which she accepted without question, especially since she harbored secrets of her own from him. Wang Lu, however, was immediately suspicious, expressing disbelief that Feng Ling trusted Xue Boren, comparing the situation to a horrific tale.
Feng Ling recounted how her symptoms, including strong internal power surges and severe headaches, primarily occurred at night but would inexplicably improve by morning. Wang Lu noted this pattern began after she met Xue Boren, intensifying his suspicions. He suggested that the balm prescriptions themselves might be the cause of her headaches, given her unique physical nature.
Despite Wang Lu’s concerns that the loosening restriction could unleash the Nine-tail fox within her, potentially endangering not just Jiyang City but the entire realm, Feng Ling remained resolute in her love for Xue Boren, finding the thought of leaving him more painful than her physical ailments. Wang Lu pressed on, asking if the secret chamber was in Xue Boren’s bedroom, but Feng Ling sternly warned him not to interfere, asserting that Xue Boren would never harm her.
Back in their room, Wang Lu shared his insights with Hai Yunfan, stating that Feng Ling remembered every detail about the mansion and that he now understood Xue Boren’s intentions behind setting up the formation. Their discussion was interrupted by Wen Bao, who excitedly brought in a package of meat and described finding large wolf claw marks. Wang Lu immediately confiscated and discarded the meat, implying it was highly problematic. Wang Lu decided to confront Xue Boren that night.
However, their plans were thwarted when Lihua, a maidservant, vigilantly guarded their door, explaining it was her duty to attend to them and that Xue Boren was asleep. Realizing they couldn’t simply walk out, Wang Lu prompted Hai Yunfan to use an Invisible Charm. Having successfully evaded Lihua and lured away the guards, the trio approached Xue Boren's room.
As they neared, Hai Yunfan’s internal restriction reacted, and he detected a pungent stench that Wang Lu couldn't perceive, raising his suspicions further. Cautioning against a direct confrontation, Hai Yunfan warned that anyone capable of deploying a complex "Time Frozen" formation must be formidable, and their priority was Ling’s safety. Wang Lu then summoned Liang Qiu, his sword spirit, to act as a scout.
Initially reluctant, Liang Qiu was persuaded by Wang Lu's plea to help the missing girls of Jiyang City, whom he suggested were being held captive and possibly as sacrifices. Upon entering, Liang Qiu confirmed Wang Lu's suspicions, sensing an unusual atmosphere. She then called out, revealing Xue Boren was harming Miao inside the secret chamber.
Wang Lu and Wen Bao immediately forced their way into the room to rescue Miao, but as they searched for the chamber entrance, Xue Boren unexpectedly emerged from "outside" the room. Xue Boren confronted them about their intrusion. Wang Lu, undeterred, fabricated a "dream" in which Xue Boren was orchestrating a series of abductions, kidnapping young girls from Jiyang City, imprisoning them in a formation-enhanced chamber, and extracting their spirits.
He feigned curiosity, asking Xue Boren to reveal the chamber to alleviate his "nightmares." Understanding the implicit accusation, Xue Boren agreed to open the chamber. Inside, they found only a collection of balms, with no sign of Miao. Xue Boren offered Wang Lu a calming balm called "Four Seasons Flower," but Wang Lu sarcastically inquired if he also sold a balm that could "clear up the scene and hide your crimes."
Xue Boren explained that the concealed chamber was merely to protect his family's ancestral balm recipes from thieves. Wang Lu retorted that Xue Boren himself was the "biggest fearless thief" in Jiyang City. After an attempt by Xue Boren to reconcile for the sake of Feng Ling, Wang Lu maintained his suspicions, vowing to uncover the truth and "kill" anyone who dared to harm his friend by using marriage as an excuse.
As Wang Lu and Wen Bao returned to their own room, they realized Hai Yunfan was not with them. Unbeknownst to them, Hai Yunfan had maintained his invisibility and followed Xue Boren into a second, hidden chamber. Upon Hai Yunfan's return, he revealed the existence of this "another chamber," describing the presence of animal fur and a peculiar scent that matched the fragrance on Miao's handkerchief.
Piecing together information from the town's rumors and the strange occurrences at Xue Mansion, Wang Lu speculated that Xue Boren was likely a demon, but he found it perplexing that Xue Boren had shown no ill intent towards Feng Ling. The next day, the three visited Miao's home and found her returned but unresponsive, lost in a daze.
Wang Lu managed to rouse her, but Miao’s memory was incomplete, stopping at an argument she had with Wang Lu three days prior and having no recollection of her disappearance. Using the Flashback technique, Hai Yunfan tried to recover Miao's missing memories. Through the fragmented recollections, they witnessed Miao transforming into a cat demon on the street and then appearing in Xue Boren’s secret chamber.
There, Xue Boren used magic to restore her human form and warned her to "not get closer to Beastmastery Sect." Upon witnessing this, Hai Yunfan’s hatred for demons erupted. He furiously confronted Wang Lu, accusing him of concealing Xue Boren's true identity as a wolf demon. Hai Yunfan asserted that the wolf fur found in the chamber and on Miao's handkerchief, coupled with the demonic formation, proved Xue Boren’s guilt.
He further claimed that Xue Boren's keen sense of smell and balm-making skills were merely innate wolf traits, and his use of advanced formations was due to his demonic nature. Wen Bao, realizing the implications, questioned if the meat he had almost eaten was human. Wang Lu tried to explain that he had merely sought concrete evidence before acting, suggesting that Xue Boren’s actions in the flashback could be interpreted as saving Miao, not harming her.
However, Hai Yunfan, consumed by his long-standing animosity towards demons, refused to listen to any explanations or believe Wang Lu's objective assessment. He insisted that all demons were inherently evil and deserved to die, regardless of any apparent good deeds, leading Wang Lu to question if Hai Yunfan would extend this prejudice even to his own friends, or to Wang Lu himself, if they were demons.
Episode 27 Recap
Wang Lu and Hai Yunfan argued fiercely over Hai Yunfan's unwavering belief that all demons, even benevolent ones or friends, must be eliminated. Hai Yunfan questioned Wang Lu, asking if he would kill him if he were a demon. Wang Lu parried, expressing hope that Hai was not a demon but refusing to answer a hypothetical. Hai Yunfan then voiced his deep disappointment in Wang Lu, having always believed Wang Lu possessed principles despite his usual jesting.
Wang Lu returned the sentiment, saying he thought the same of Hai Yunfan. The tension escalated as Wang Lu suggested Wen Bao accompany him to the Beastmastery Sect the following day, only for Hai Yunfan to insist Wen Bao stay with him at the Xue Mansion. Both tried to persuade Wen Bao, reminding him of past comradeship and offering different incentives. Wen Bao, caught in the middle, pleaded with them not to separate, visibly upset.
Later, Feng Ling found Wang Lu alone. She vented her frustration with the pretense and artificiality prevalent in the Xue Mansion, from the "hideous" pearl-laced dresses and "fragile and chatty" maids to the "revolting" opulent decorations and even her transformed self. She confessed that despite her strong desire to tear everything down, she endured it all because of Xue Boren.
Wang Lu playfully teased her, noting her shift from her usual "wooden block" persona and questioning what image she held of herself. He probed if she still suspected Xue Boren, which she denied, stating that while she understood Wang Lu's concern, she now fully trusted Xue Boren. She explained that Xue Boren had not drugged her, but she deeply felt his genuine affection.
She revealed that she often missed Lingjian Mountain, including its barren peak, the unappetizing radishes of Lingxi Town, Wang Wu’s shamelessness, and even her father’s feigned strength. When Wang Lu asked why she didn't return, she elaborated on her previous reluctance to live in the sect, explaining that her father's love, while real, was tinged with an uncomfortable carefulness, creating a subtle distance between them.
She expressed that only Wang Lu and Wang Wu treated her with a true "ordinary heart," unlike others who approached her differently because of her unique identity. She cherished Xue Boren's perspective, seeing her simply as an "ordinary girl" whom he adored and cared for without spoiling her. He encouraged her not to feign toughness or seek to please others by becoming someone she disliked, allowing her to feel truly at ease in his presence for the first time.
Wang Lu, still cautious, asked if she worried about Xue Boren's potential secrets. Feng Ling reaffirmed her trust in him, stating that even if he had secrets, her belief in his sincerity remained. She also confided that she had not yet informed her father, the Sect Leader, of her impending marriage, fearing his disapproval due to the Restriction within her.
However, she reassured Wang Lu that her father's protective "heart blood" remained potent, and she would immediately seek help at Lingjian Mountain if her inner Restriction showed any signs of trouble. Wang Lu jokingly promised to prevent the "bastard" within her from escaping, prompting Feng Ling to playfully call him a "little bastard" before chasing him. After his argument with Wang Lu, Hai Yunfan sought solitude, booking an entire teahouse.
His brief peace was interrupted by the arrival of Xue Boren's second and third brothers. The teahouse staff informed them the establishment was fully booked, and they opted to run errands. Sensing an opportunity, Hai Yunfan discreetly followed them. The Xue brothers soon realized they were being trailed and intentionally led him to a small forest, engaging in seemingly mundane conversation about wedding preparations, all while setting a trap. A confrontation ensued.
Hai Yunfan, attempting to conceal his identity, found himself at a disadvantage against the two brothers. Just as he was about to be overcome, Du Songzi of the Shengjing Sect intervened, defeating Xue Boren's second brother and forcing the siblings to flee. Du Songzi, recognizing Hai Yunfan as a fellow cultivator from Lingjian Sect, informed him that he had detected "evil spirits" on the Xue brothers, suggesting they were not ordinary humans.
He offered his assistance if Hai Yunfan needed help in demon eradication. Hai Yunfan, however, chose not to reveal the truth, instead fabricating a story about a prior market dispute and a personal vendetta, and departed after expressing his gratitude.
While Wang Lu was concerned, he repeatedly sent transmission runes to Wang Wu, expressing his worry about her long absence and playfully chiding her for not sending a wedding gift to Feng Ling, even hinting that Feng Ling's fiancé might be a wolf demon. He even asked her to bring the Sect Leader, noting Feng Ling's quiet desire for his presence. Wang Wu, receiving these lengthy messages, was annoyed by his lack of "manners."
Unbeknownst to Wang Lu, Wang Wu had been trapped for over ten days at Junhuang Mountain. She had proactively confronted Hai Tiankuo to demand answers about Ouyang Shang, but he seemed to deliberately misunderstand her intentions, seeing her visit as a challenge for a duel.
To gain access to his private chambers without direct confrontation, Wang Wu ingeniously deployed a paper substitute to engage Hai Tiankuo in a prolonged and theatrical "fight," while the real Wang Wu covertly sneaked into his mansion. During her search, she discovered a letter from Ouyang Shang to Hai Tiankuo, which spoke of Ouyang nearing the Nascent Soul stage and a prior agreement to "practice" with Hai Tiankuo to achieve "supreme power." Wang Wu was deeply perplexed by this revelation.
Suddenly, Hai Tiankuo abruptly ended his "fight" with the paper substitute and instantly teleported back to his room. Caught off guard, Wang Wu barely managed to hide herself within a large wine barrel. From her hiding spot, she overheard Hai Tiankuo discussing his secret investigation into Shengjing Sect and reviewing financial reports, dragging out his business for what seemed like hours, almost causing Wang Wu to reveal herself in frustration.
Once he finally left with his subordinate, Wang Wu emerged to find a note. Hai Tiankuo's message revealed he was fully aware of her presence in the barrel and had intentionally left the Iron Blood within to aid her in detoxifying the Liumang Poisonous Blood and advancing her Wuxiang Kungfu, even leaving a new set of clothes. Initially, this made Wang Wu ponder if she had misjudged Hai Tiankuo and if he was indeed Ouyang Shang's true friend.
However, her attempt to leave was met with a formidable barrier: the Matrix of Coiling, a powerful defensive array designed by Junhuang's founder, the Spider Immortal, which Hai Tiankuo had activated to keep her confined for her healing. A subordinate confirmed that the array was connected to the entire mountain's defenses, making escape impossible unless she could destroy the entire system. Wang Wu realized she was indeed strategically imprisoned.
After another failed attempt to contact Wang Wu, Wang Lu and Wen Bao anxiously awaited Hai Yunfan's return. When Hai Yunfan finally stumbled back, visibly injured, Wang Lu immediately dropped his pretense of nonchalance. He scolded Hai Yunfan for his recklessness, expressing his concern and threatening to confront whoever had harmed him. Hai Yunfan explained that he had tracked Xue Boren’s second and third brothers, who had feigned weakness previously, and found himself in a difficult fight after being discovered.
He admitted their cultivation was surprisingly formidable. Wang Lu criticized Hai Yunfan's solo mission, reminding him of the risks and their joint objective, especially concerning Feng Ling's safety. Hai Yunfan, however, was resolute in his mission to eliminate the "demons," stating it was his duty as a Lingjian disciple. Seeking to bridge their disagreement, Wang Lu proposed a compromise: they would visit the Beastmastery Sect at Yuntai Mountain the next day to investigate.
He reasoned that if the sect proved "clean," he would abandon his suspicions about Xue Boren, and they could then devise a new plan to deal with the Xue brothers. Hai Yunfan, though still wary, ultimately agreed, prompting Wang Lu to playfully instruct Wen Bao to let Hai Yunfan's injuries "feel the pain." The trio arrived at the Beastmastery Sect at Yuntai Mountain, where they were greeted by a disciple.
After being informed of their identity as Lingjian disciples, the sect's head, Zuo Xia, also known as Wosou, came out to welcome them. Wang Lu had correctly predicted his "sage-like and upright" demeanor, then quickly apologized for his earlier bluntness. Inside, Wang Lu feigned an interest in learning beast-taming techniques from their "Spirit Beast Academy," jokingly hoping to "show off" back at Lingjian Mountain.
Zuo Xia patiently explained the distinction between Spirit Beasts, which possess "spirit power" and can be tamed, and demons, which are formed from "various objects" and possess "evil spirits." He stressed that demons are inherently "destructive," "can’t be domesticated," and are "born evil," therefore a wolf demon would "definitely be harmful." Hai Yunfan, his convictions reinforced, inquired about the "wolf and fox demons" rumors in Jiyang and their suspected connection to the missing girls.
Zuo Xia recounted an old legend of a wolf and fox demon pair that committed many evils decades ago before mysteriously vanishing, and how the recent strange occurrences had led people to believe they had returned. Seizing an opportunity, Wang Lu feigned a sudden stomachache, humorously blaming it on too many greens, and excused himself to the "bathroom." He then secretly summoned Liang Qiu, his sword spirit, to discreetly survey the sect's grounds.
Liang Qiu, after a brief complaint about Wang Lu's attitude, reported her findings: the sect comprised nine courtyards, seventeen side halls, and fifty-nine rooms, but notably, a cave entrance at the back of the mountain was protected by an impenetrable barrier. Declining Liang Qiu's offer to break through it, Wang Lu stated his preference for handling difficulties himself and proceeded to investigate the mysterious cave alone.
Episode 28 Recap
Hai Yunfan and Wen Bao continued their consultation with Priest Zuo of the Beastmastery Sect. Hai Yunfan was eager to know the best way to subdue Wolf demons, but Priest Zuo stated that his sect excelled more at mastering beasts than at demon eradication and therefore had no specific suggestions beyond letting their Magic Beasts perish together to gain a moment of peace for the human world.
Wen Bao then asked if he could see Priest Zuo's Magic Beast, but Priest Zuo regretfully informed them that his rare ferret, which had been with him for nearly twenty years and was extremely swift, had died just two days prior. He explained that his ferret succumbed to high-intensity training due to his anxious desire to save people from the cunning Wolf demons.
Hai Yunfan was deeply moved by Priest Zuo's apparent selflessness, and just as he began to share information he knew about the Wolf demons, Wang Lu returned and quickly interrupted him. Wang Lu's interruption was meant to prevent Hai Yunfan from inadvertently alerting their hosts. He subtly prompted Priest Zuo to continue his story. Priest Zuo then explained that after his ferret's death, many disciples, inspired by his dedication, donated their own Magic Pets for training.
This led them to establish a secret training base in the back mountain, protected by an anti-magic barrier to ward off Wolf demons. Wang Lu, intrigued, specifically asked for the location of this secret base. Priest Zuo readily disclosed it was in the back mountain and even invited Wang Lu to visit, expressing profound respect for the Lingjian Sect, a "renowned sect" whose ancestors made significant contributions in the human-demon war a hundred years ago.
Wang Lu politely declined the invitation, stating he didn't wish to intrude on a "secret base." Hai Yunfan, however, was further convinced that the Beastmastery Sect was reputable and Wang Lu's suspicions were baseless. After leaving the Beastmastery Sect, Hai Yunfan questioned Wang Lu about what he had truly discovered during his feigned stomachache. Wang Lu revealed he had explored a cave in the back mountain, which was protected by barriers and filled with scarred animals.
He doubted Priest Zuo's explanation that this was a training base for fighting Wolf demons, suggesting it was a cover-up. Hai Yunfan, however, firmly believed in the sect's honorable intentions to protect Jiyang City. Wang Lu then pointed out that the charms he saw on the animal cages were identical to the ordinary marriage charms girls would seek.
Wen Bao remembered that Miao had indeed obtained and drunk such a charm from the Beastmastery Sect on the morning she disappeared, before she transformed into a cat. This connection led Wang Lu to theorize that the animals held captive in the cave were, in fact, girls who had been transformed after drinking the charm water. Hai Yunfan flatly rejected this theory, asserting that the Beastmastery Sect would never engage in such malicious acts.
Wang Lu attempted to obtain a charm himself by pretending to be a "born single" man desperate for a wife, but Priest Zuo scornfully dismissed him, stating that "good men should think about the state" and not seek marriage charms. Unable to obtain a charm, the trio considered other options.
Wen Bao recalled a story his father told him about a renowned busker in Canglan who transformed children into intelligent animals to make money, concluding that only vulnerable individuals like children or young girls could be so easily controlled. Hai Yunfan remained unconvinced, insisting that Priest Zuo appeared to be a genuinely good person. Wang Lu countered that Priest Zuo's "textbook-like" goodness made him suspicious, identifying him as a "hypocrite" whom he inherently distrusted due to his rebellious nature.
Hai Yunfan questioned why Wang Lu was so focused on Priest Zuo rather than the Wolf demons. Their disagreement escalated, and Hai Yunfan, stating he could no longer accompany Wang Lu, decided to leave. Before he left, Wang Lu implored him not to disclose the Xue family's true identity to anyone, especially Priest Zuo. Hai Yunfan expressed his confusion over Wang Lu's protective stance towards the Xues, given his initial dislike of them.
Wang Lu vaguely explained that the "relationship between men is subtle," noting that feelings can change unexpectedly, sometimes leading to conflict even among those who like each other, and sometimes sparks flying from arguments. The two parted ways in frustration. Wang Lu decided to confide in Feng Ling about his suspicions that the Beastmastery Sect was transforming girls into Magic Pets.
Although initially playfully mocking Wang Lu about his "eagerness to marry" and dismissing Wang Wu's capabilities, Feng Ling immediately became enraged upon hearing Wang Lu's theory about the sect. She declared her intent to "ruin Beastmastery Sect" and set off at once. Wang Lu tried to caution her against a direct assault, but Feng Ling, asserting confidence in her own power, went ahead alone.
At the Beastmastery Sect, Feng Ling subtly infiltrated by feigning a desire to seek a marriage charm. The attending priest affirmed the charms' magical efficacy for marriage, and Feng Ling followed his instructions, incinerating the charm and drinking the charm water. Wang Lu, waiting anxiously outside, was relieved when Feng Ling reassured him that her body's unique Restriction made her immune to "third-rate tricks" and that she trusted him to protect her.
Feng Ling then mentioned her upcoming wedding, lightheartedly asking Wang Lu to perform the role of a "send-off girl," a request he playfully rejected. She also expressed concern about Wang Wu's silence, noting that Wang Wu hadn't replied to her messages and wasn't attending her wedding. Wang Lu, also worried by his master's unresponsiveness, sent another message to Wang Wu.
As night fell, Wang Lu, still unable to reach Wang Wu through other means, sent a message via a paper crane, urging her to respond before Feng Ling's impending marriage, though he tried to downplay his concern for her. Meanwhile, Wang Wu was confined within the "Matrix of Coiling" at Junhuang Mountain, able to receive messages but unable to send them. She was perplexed by Hai Tiankuo's actions—providing a crucial clue about Ouyang Shang, yet simultaneously imprisoning her.
Determined to escape, Wang Wu devised a plan: she loudly feigned being humiliated, threatening to use a "photo box" and "flying charms" to spread scandalous "paintings" of herself across Kyushu, warning that the Lingjian Sect's leader and Ouyang Shang would retaliate by destroying Junhuang Mountain if she wasn't released. Hai Tiankuo appeared, revealing he was fully aware of her deceptive tactics.
He explained that her Liumang Poisonous Blood needed seven days within the Matrix of Coiling, combined with Iron Blood, to be completely cleared, which would also significantly enhance her Wuxiang Kungfu. He reaffirmed that Ouyang Shang was indeed still alive in Kyushu, swearing on his cultivation that his actions were solely aimed at finding Ouyang Shang. Wang Wu, though still suspicious, accepted his oath but demanded immediate release for urgent matters.
When Hai Tiankuo refused, insisting she remain for seven days, she escalated her threat to send the photos to the Bureau of Affairs. Hai Tiankuo countered by threatening to visit Lingjian Mountain with marriage proposals himself. Realizing Hai Tiankuo was aware of her array skills and deception, Wang Wu decided to force her escape.
She drastically compressed seven days of cultivation into a single day, successfully clearing her blood poison and greatly increasing her power, but inadvertently summoning a formidable heavenly thunder. Wang Wu intended to use this thunder to shatter the Matrix of Coiling and break free. She succeeded in using the thunder to break the Matrix, overcoming Hai Tiankuo's attempts to reseal it. Hai Tiankuo acknowledged her cunning and power.
Wang Wu again demanded Ouyang Shang's whereabouts, but Hai Tiankuo still refused to disclose it directly, stating it was "not to be spoken." Satisfied with her breakthrough and the confirmation of Ouyang Shang's survival, Wang Wu declared their debt settled and departed, leaving Hai Tiankuo to reflect that her escape, while bold, didn't jeopardize his larger scheme, and she remained unaware of Ouyang Shang's paramount importance to him.
Wang Wu immediately sent a message to Wang Lu, instructing him to prepare Feng Ling for her arrival, leading Wang Lu to believe all would soon be well. In a tavern late at night, a despondent Hai Yunfan drank heavily, with Wen Bao attempting to dissuade him. Hai Yunfan confessed his profound hatred for all demons, a sentiment rooted in his painful experience with his sworn brother, Hai Tiankuo.
He recalled how Hai Tiankuo, once a trusted friend he could entrust his life with, transformed into a "cruel, heartless monster" right before his eyes, becoming indifferent to his desperate pleas. Hai Yunfan contrasted this with Wang Lu, believing Wang Lu wouldn't betray him. He expressed frustration that Wang Lu couldn't comprehend that demons, unlike humans, are inherently evil and uncontrollable once transformed.
He voiced his deepest fear: that Wang Lu would be "seduced by demons" and suffer the same fate as Hai Tiankuo, becoming a monster himself. Wen Bao suggested that Hai Yunfan should communicate these feelings directly to Wang Lu instead of constantly testing their friendship. Unbeknownst to them, Du Songzi was listening intently from nearby.
Unbeknownst to most, Priest Zuo of the Beastmastery Sect was the true culprit behind the missing girls, covertly abducting them and using charm water to transform them into Magic Beasts. His ultimate goal was to collect their Spirit Jade of Magic Pets. A subordinate reported to Priest Zuo that Miao, who had previously been transformed, was now restored to human form.
Priest Zuo, feigning anger, blamed the Wolf demons, while secretly pleased that Wang Lu and his companions from Lingjian Sect were unwittingly helping him combat the Wolf demons, thereby accelerating his plan to gather Spirit Jade. He had learned that Feng Ling, who had recently consumed his charm water, possessed "extremely powerful" spiritual energy, making her crucial for his collection of Spirit Jade.
Meanwhile, after a tender moment with Xue Boren, where she was making shoes for her father Feng Yin, featuring a Chi Dragon embroidery (a subtle sign of her enduring bond with Lingjian Mountain), Feng Ling was left alone.
Xue Boren, discerning her unspoken desire for her Lingjian Mountain family to attend their wedding, promised to take her to visit Feng Yin and Wang Wu after their marriage, stating that his fear of her unhappiness outweighed his fear of Feng Yin's "Star Sword." Shortly after Xue Boren departed, Feng Ling's eyes became vacant, and she began to walk out of the house in a trance-like state, heading towards the Beastmastery Sect.
Alarming, no one around her noticed her alarming abnormality. The following morning, a still-inebriated Hai Yunfan was brought to Wang Lu by Wen Bao. Hai Yunfan tearfully conveyed his deep concern for Wang Lu, expressing his fear that Wang Lu might also be "seduced by demons" and betrayed, a painful parallel to his own experience with Hai Tiankuo. Wen Bao confirmed Hai Yunfan's genuine care for Wang Lu.
Their discussion was abruptly interrupted by a frantic report from Xue Boren's subordinate: Feng Ling was missing, having left through the backdoor in the middle of the night. Wang Lu immediately explained to a distraught Xue Boren that Feng Ling had gone to the Beastmastery Sect as a spy to investigate the missing girls and had, in fact, drunk the sect's charm water.
Furious that Wang Lu had allowed Feng Ling to take such a risk with a sect known for transforming girls into Magic Beasts, Xue Boren quickly rallied his brothers, Zhongren, Shuren, and Chaiqi, to rush to Beastmastery Sect for a rescue. Wang Lu, Wen Bao, and the still-tipsy Hai Yunfan followed close behind. At the foot of Cloud Platform Mountain, Xue Boren’s group, ready to charge, was stopped by Wang Lu, who advocated for a more strategic approach.
Hai Yunfan, using his magic power to sober up, offered his invisibility spell, which could conceal up to four people. Capitalizing on this, Wang Lu devised a detailed plan: Hai Yunfan would lead three others to steal the "Lord Stove" to create a major diversion. Simultaneously, Wang Lu and Xue Boren would use this distraction to infiltrate the training base, anticipating only minimal resistance, and rescue Feng Ling.
Wen Bao was assigned the task of creating an alibi for the Lingjian Sect. Inside the Beastmastery Sect's training base, Priest Zuo was perplexed that Feng Ling had not yet transformed despite consuming the charm water. He fretted over missing the "Seven Evils Day," the optimal time to collect Spirit Jade, when the Wolf demons were weakest. Just as Priest Zuo prepared to take further action, a powerful surge of demonic energy erupted from within Feng Ling.
Episode 29 Recap
Wen Bao went to Priest Zuo, claiming to have located a wounded wolf demon in Jiyang and requested the Beastmastery Sect's immediate assistance. Priest Zuo found this odd, noting it was the Seven Evils Day, when demon powers are at their weakest. Wen Bao insisted the demon was injured and required urgent attention.
This distraction, orchestrated by Wen Bao and Hai Yunfan, created an opportunity for Wang Lu and Xue Boren to infiltrate the secret training base, while Hai Yunfan and the Xue brothers caused a disturbance at the Beastmastery Sect, attempting to steal the Lord Stove. However, they were discovered and had to retreat. During their escape, one of the Xue brothers mentioned that it was Seven Evils Day, making them particularly vulnerable.
Hai Yunfan realized that only demons were affected by this phenomenon, a thought that planted seeds of doubt. Meanwhile, Wang Lu and Xue Boren sneaked into the secret training base. Inside the secret base, Xue Boren spotted Feng Ling. Driven by his concern, he rushed to her side to free her. As he did, he was caught in a formation, forcing him to reveal his true demon form.
Priest Zuo then appeared, identifying Xue Boren as the notorious "Jiyang wolf demon" and accusing him of feigning kindness while murdering innocent girls. Xue Boren, now fully transformed, declared he had hated Priest Zuo for a long time and would avenge those innocent girls. Priest Zuo, confident that the common people would believe him over a demon, engaged Xue Boren in a fierce battle. Their powers were evenly matched, creating a tense equilibrium. Wang Lu arrived, observing the stalemate.
Priest Zuo welcomed Wang Lu, attempting to sway him against Xue Boren, reiterating his accusations. Xue Boren, in turn, urged Wang Lu not to believe Priest Zuo, explaining that the formation in his mansion was actually for saving lives. Wang Lu, feigning doubt about whom to trust, seemingly sided with Priest Zuo and delivered a powerful strike that brought the priest down. Xue Boren thanked Wang Lu for his trust. However, Priest Zuo was not defeated.
He quickly declared his intention to use the Swallow Heaven Great Law with the Spirit Jade, explaining that it was an evil art that used human souls to drastically increase his power. Recognizing the danger, Wang Lu insisted that Xue Boren take Feng Ling and leave, despite Xue Boren's protests that Wang Lu couldn't face Priest Zuo alone. Wang Lu confidently stated he could easily defeat such a "low-level nobody."
Wang Lu attempted to summon Liang Qiu for assistance, calling her name repeatedly, but she inexplicably failed to appear. Left to fight alone, Wang Lu was struck by Priest Zuo and fell unconscious. Wang Lu's soul separated from his body, and he found himself in a strange realm, which he soon realized was inside the Purple Gold Lord Stove. The spirit of the stove appeared, looking identical to Priest Zuo.
The spirit clarified he was not Priest Zuo, but rather the Stove's spirit, the Beastmastery Sect's most valuable treasure. He revealed Priest Zuo's heinous deeds: since taking over the sect, Priest Zuo had mercilessly slaughtered spirit beasts to refine their Spirit Jade, and when those ran out, he forcibly demonized and refined innocent girls to enhance his own cultivation. Wang Lu demanded to know why the spirit hadn't intervened earlier.
The spirit explained that as the sect's treasure, he was bound and couldn't act against the sect leader. However, Priest Zuo's recent hasty use of the Spirit Jade had damaged a part of the stove's seal, granting the spirit a limited ability to assist. He offered to infuse Wang Lu's physical body with powerful spiritual energy and his own soul, though he cautioned that Wang Lu's mortal body might not withstand such immense power.
Wang Lu confidently asserted that his Wuxiang Sword Bones could withstand any attack, prompting the spirit to boost his cultivation to the verge of Foundation Establishment. Before returning, Wang Lu questioned why the spirit resembled Priest Zuo, to which the spirit replied that he was the first leader of the Beastmastery Sect, and thus, resemblance to his descendants was natural. Wang Lu awoke, finding Priest Zuo boasting about his newfound power and plans to dominate the cultivation world.
Mocking Priest Zuo's habit of "talking to himself," Wang Lu declared that he was blessed and anything was possible. He then called upon Liang Qiu to "go to work," and despite her grumbling about his crude manner of speech, they united their power. Wang Lu and Liang Qiu launched a combined attack that decisively defeated Priest Zuo. Wang Lu then gathered the Purple Gold Lord Stove and the cages containing the demonized girls, bringing them back to the Xue Mansion.
Wang Wu had also arrived. Wang Lu, still reeling from his near-death experience, complained about Wang Wu's lack of concern, but she brushed him off, pointing out his significantly increased cultivation and the valuable stove he acquired. After playfully suggesting he wanted "kisses and hugs," Wang Wu instructed him to omit the details about the Lord Stove from his travel report.
When Hai Yunfan and Wen Bao joined them, expressing relief at Wang Lu's safety and offering their help, Wang Lu proudly declared his victory over the Beastmastery Sect leader. Upon meeting Xue Boren, Wang Wu humorously declared him her "love rival" for marrying Feng Ling, before clarifying it was a joke. She then directed Wang Lu to release the rescued girls from the stove.
Wang Lu, ever opportunistic, suggested keeping the stove for their peak's treasury, but Wang Wu quickly dismissed the idea. Wang Wu assured everyone that the girls were only temporarily weak from soul draining and would recover after a few days of rest. She then dispatched Hai Yunfan, Wen Bao, and Xue Boren to take the recovering girls back to their homes, with Xue Boren expressing profound gratitude on behalf of Jiyang's people. Wang Wu simply stated, "We are family."
Later, Wang Lu questioned Wang Wu's casual acceptance of Xue Boren being a demon. Wang Wu, with her usual bluntness, chided Wang Lu for his lack of perception, finding Xue Boren rather charming and seeing no issue with their union, even humorously stating, "Others can be a talented gentleman and a beautiful lady, why can't they be jackals, wolves, tigers, and leopards?" Wang Lu was taken aback by her unconventional views.
Hai Yunfan, still harboring suspicions from the "Seven Evils Day" comment, remained doubtful about Xue Boren. Wang Lu tried to dissuade him without revealing Xue Boren's demonic identity. He argued that their initial assumptions about the Xue brothers being evil were wrong, and that Priest Zuo was the true culprit. He highlighted Xue Boren's actions—saving the girls and fighting Priest Zuo—as evidence of his good character.
Wang Lu reminded Hai Yunfan that Lingjian was a "sect of law" that required evidence, urging him not to let hatred blind his judgment. Later, Xue Boren privately thanked Wang Lu for covering for him. Wang Lu feigned ignorance about any secret. Xue Boren then admitted his demonic nature, clarifying that he and his brothers were not wolf demons but rather dog demons (specifying breeds like Alaskan Malamute, Shiba Inu, Samoyed, and Huskie for his brothers).
He emphasized that they had always sought to live like humans and had secretly protected Jiyang, never committing any evil deeds. Wang Lu then asked about the time-stopping formation in the mansion. Xue Boren explained that Feng Ling had been suffering from a mysterious illness since moving into the mansion, which no doctor could cure, and she refused treatment.
Suspecting it was a result of some dark magic from the Beastmastery Sect, and unable to destroy the sect immediately, he created the formation to temporarily stabilize her condition. Wang Lu acknowledged his thoughtfulness. Xue Boren vowed to confess his true identity to Feng Ling when the time was right, but Wang Lu warned him about Feng Ling's father, Leader Feng Yin, a master of "Star Divination," who might discover their secret and cause trouble at the wedding.
Wang Lu advised Xue Boren to keep his weaker brothers hidden to avoid exposure. Wang Wu visited Feng Ling, who was experiencing pre-wedding jitters. Feng Ling confessed her fears that Xue Boren might discover the Nine-tailed Fox seal within her body and see her as a monster. Wang Wu dismissed this, playfully suggesting he might find it "familiar." Feng Ling also worried about marrying without informing her father, Leader Feng Yin, fearing his disappointment.
Wang Wu, in her characteristic humorous style, joked about the dire consequences if Feng Yin found out immediately, but then advised Feng Ling to keep it secret for now. She reassured Feng Ling that once children were involved, Leader Feng Yin would likely soften his stance, even jesting about Feng Ling's ability to bear children.
Wang Wu ultimately encouraged Feng Ling to focus on her present happiness, promising to face future challenges with her and even jokingly offering to marry her herself should things go wrong. Unbeknownst to Wang Lu, Hai Yunfan's suspicions continued to fester. He observed Chaiqi, one of the Xue brothers, acting furtively and followed him discreetly into a secret chamber. There, Hai Yunfan discovered Chaiqi in his true demon form, a dog demon, recovering from injuries.
Before Hai Yunfan could react, Xue Boren ambushed him, knocking him unconscious. Meanwhile, Wang Wu playfully ambushed Wang Lu, teasing his improved reflexes. Wang Lu, ever proud, boasted about his significant progress in cultivation and how even Liang Qiu, his sword spirit, now held him in high regard.
However, Liang Qiu immediately contradicted him, asserting that he was only "a little stronger" and still vastly inferior to their senior brother, Ouyang Shang, whom she and Wang Wu described as a truly perfect and flawless hero, much to Wang Lu's exasperation. Wang Lu then offered Wang Wu some special grade anesthetic powder he had acquired for her, but she revealed that she no longer needed it.
She explained that during a recent miraculous journey, she had cultivated all 108 of her Wuxiang Sword Bones to their golden body form, achieved great divine power, and thus ended her monthly suffering after overcoming a heavenly tribulation. Overjoyed, Wang Lu spontaneously hugged her, creating a brief, awkward, yet tender moment. Wang Lu quickly changed the subject.
Wang Wu then expressed a lingering unease about the time formation in the mansion, feeling there was something "off" about its unique design, despite Wang Lu's explanation that Xue Boren had created it solely to protect Feng Ling from her illness. Wang Lu reminded Wang Wu that the Xue brothers were in fact dog demons and not wolf demons as initially thought.
Wang Wu was surprised, then chided Wang Lu for not being more upfront with Feng Ling about Xue Boren's true nature. However, she quickly admitted she hadn't told Feng Ling either, reasoning that Feng Ling was already overwhelmed with anxiety about her own Nine-tailed Fox seal. Wang Wu mused on the irony of the "fox and dog" couple, hoping they would cope well when their respective hidden truths eventually came to light.
Wang Lu, in turn, expressed his deep concern about Hai Yunfan's persistent prejudice against demons, admitting his repeated failures to persuade him otherwise. He hoped that Feng Ling's seal would remain intact and the Xue brothers' identities undiscovered, as he truly didn't know how he would manage the inevitable conflict if they were exposed.
Wang Wu, with her usual pragmatism, concluded that they should simply "wait and see," emphasizing that the immediate priority was to ensure Feng Ling's wedding went smoothly, leaving all future troubles for Wang Lu to handle.
Episode 30 Recap
The evening before the wedding, Xue Boren arrived at Feng Ling's room, but respectfully stayed outside the door, explaining that according to tradition, they should not see each other before the ceremony to ensure a lifetime of happiness. Feng Ling, touched by his words, expressed concern for his well-being after the incident at Beastmastery Sect.
Xue Boren assured her he was unharmed and promised to tell her the full story later, reiterating his profound love for her and vowing to cherish her for eternity. Feng Ling, overwhelmed, declared she couldn't lose him again and offered to stay home after their marriage to cook and clean for him. Xue Boren gently refused, stating that merely seeing her every day would bring him complete contentment.
As he spoke of their future, Feng Ling gathered her courage to reveal a secret: she had a demon restriction within her. However, before she could finish, Xue Boren quietly departed. Meanwhile, inside a hidden chamber, Hai Yunfan regained consciousness and overheard Xue Boren speaking with Chaiqi. Chaiqi inquired about Foxie’s (the Nine-tail fox's) health, relieved that the "nasty priest" hadn't damaged her human body, and noted how Wang Lu’s group had inadvertently helped them.
Chaiqi then pressed Xue Boren about the Red String Nuptial Rite (Red String Magic), questioning if it could truly release Foxie from Feng Ling’s body during the upcoming wedding. Xue Boren’s hesitation led Chaiqi to accuse him of having feelings for Feng Ling. Xue Boren adamantly denied this, swearing his unwavering devotion to Foxie and affirming that her liberation was their sole objective.
He detailed their plan: orchestrating Xue Boren's encounter with Feng Ling, using a "thousand-mile red string" as an引 (yin) and "love threads" as an祭 (ji), and having Feng Ling drink the nuptial liquor containing "Tender as Water" to perform the Red String Nuptial Rite and break the seal. Chaiqi warned Xue Boren to be cautious not to drink the "Tender as Water" himself, as it would expose his demon form to the Lingjian Sect.
Xue Boren acknowledged the warning and instructed Chaiqi to remain hidden during the wedding to avoid raising suspicion and to continue guarding Hai Yunfan, fearing his hostility towards demons would sabotage their plan. Hai Yunfan, now realizing that Feng Ling was the vessel for the Nine-tail fox, sealed there 30 years ago, and that Xue Boren and Chaiqi were demons, tried to escape to warn Wang Lu, but found himself trapped by a powerful barrier.
The next day, as the wedding preparations continued, Feng Ling felt a mix of nerves and excitement. Wang Wu, acting as a supportive elder sister, playfully teased her about her beauty. Elsewhere, Wang Lu and Wen Bao searched for Hai Yunfan, who had been missing since their return from Yuntai Mountain. Wang Lu speculated that Hai Yunfan was likely embarrassed after losing their bet about Xue Boren's identity and was hiding.
He tried to contact Hai Yunfan using the Jade Stone, but received no reply, although his spiritual sense indicated Hai Yunfan was still within the mansion. Wang Lu dismissed the possibility of a serious issue, assuming Hai Yunfan was using an Invisible Formation and would eventually appear at the wedding. Trapped in the secret chamber, Hai Yunfan analyzed the barrier, recognizing its similarity to the Six Lights Prison.
He devised a plan to break it by finding the formation's intersections, drawing mirrored runes, and simultaneously releasing spiritual energy. His immediate obstacle was Chaiqi, who remained vigilantly watchful, refusing food or games. Hai Yunfan skillfully used "Wangyue Cakes" to distract Chaiqi, creating a momentary lapse in his attention, which Hai Yunfan exploited to activate the runes and shatter the barrier, making his escape. The wedding ceremony proceeded as planned.
After the traditional bows to Heaven and Earth and to the elders, Xue Boren and Feng Ling prepared for the crucial moment of drinking the nuptial liquor. Chaiqi, surprisingly present, explained the liquor’s significance, claiming it would symbolize their union. As they were about to drink, Hai Yunfan dramatically burst into the hall, loudly interrupting the ceremony. He urged Elder Wang Wu to halt the wedding, declaring that Xue Boren was a demon.
Chaiqi immediately refuted the accusation, but Hai Yunfan persisted, exposing Xue Boren’s true intention: using the marriage as a ploy to release the Nine-tail fox from within Feng Ling. Wang Lu initially dismissed Hai Yunfan’s claims as baseless accusations stemming from his lost bet. Hai Yunfan, however, detailed the plot, explaining that the liquor contained "Tender as Water" intended to activate the Red String Nuptial Rite and break the seal.
Feng Ling, deeply shaken by the accusations, looked into Xue Boren's eyes, desperately seeking the truth. Xue Boren denied the claims, reaffirming his love for her and insisting the liquor was harmless. Hai Yunfan challenged Xue Boren to drink the liquor in front of everyone, asserting that if he were truly innocent, he would not transform.
Before Xue Boren could act, Feng Ling, fueled by her love and trust, took the cup and drank the liquor herself, declaring that she would do anything for him. Moved by her gesture, Xue Boren then took the second cup and drank it, vowing his eternal devotion to Feng Ling regardless of what she might become. To everyone’s astonishment, neither Feng Ling nor Xue Boren showed any signs of transformation.
Wang Wu, now confident, sarcastically dismissed Hai Yunfan’s dramatic interruption, pointing out that the supposed "Tender as Water" was merely a fine Nü'er Hong (Daughter Red) wine. Embarrassed, Hai Yunfan questioned if he had been mistaken, while Feng Ling tearfully apologized to Xue Boren for her moment of doubt. Xue Boren reassured her, saying he understood. Wang Wu then urged the ceremony to continue.
Just as the celebration was about to resume, Chaiqi, who had unexpectedly returned, cast a "Freeze Charm" on Feng Ling, immobilizing her. Brandishing a Zhen Yuan Ci dagger, he lunged at her, screaming for her to release Foxie. Xue Boren immediately intercepted him, shielding Feng Ling. Chaiqi, consumed by rage, accused Xue Boren of betraying Foxie for a human woman and reminded him of humanity's past cruelty towards demons.
He spoke of Foxie's devotion to them and her profound resentment towards human prejudice, recounting how she was injured saving him. He revealed that long ago, Xue Boren had placed a unique spell on Foxie as a "farewell gift," hoping she would never need it.
This spell caused her to regress into a human infant after her recovery and subsequent challenge to the Five Sects for justice, eventually leading to her being sealed within the body of the Lingjian Sect leader's daughter. Believing he had no choice, Chaiqi lunged once more to kill Feng Ling and break the seal, but Xue Boren bravely stepped in again, taking the fatal blow himself. Chaiqi, in instant regret, collapsed beside his dying brother.
Feng Ling, still frozen by the charm, watched helplessly as Xue Boren took his last breath. With Xue Boren's death, the Time Frozen formation he had maintained dissolved. The heart blood from the sect leader, which had been suppressing the Nine-tail fox within Feng Ling, could no longer contain the seal. In a dramatic display of power, Feng Ling transformed into the majestic Nine-tail fox. An ecstatic Chaiqi hailed her return.
The Nine-tail fox then declared that she was, and always had been, Feng Ling, dismissing the notion of a separate demon sealed within her. She recounted her true history: decades ago, after assembling a powerful demon army to negotiate with the Five Sects, they were ambushed and massacred by cultivators, primarily led by the Shengjing Sect. In her furious retaliation, she fought her way to Lingjian Mountain, where she encountered Feng Yin.
Though slightly more powerful, his sealing attempt was complicated by her exhaustion and, unexpectedly, a spell Xue Boren had previously cast on her as a "farewell gift" he hoped she would never need. This spell caused her to regress into a human infant, a sight that softened Feng Yin’s heart and led him to adopt her as his daughter and, eventually, the owner of Lingxi Inn.
Now, after decades of living a "false" life under the "oppression" of Wang Wu and the "torture" of Feng Yin, and being "lectured" by Wang Lu, she declared her vengeance, promising to make them all pay with their blood for her clan's suffering. Wang Lu and his companions found themselves outmatched by the enraged Nine-tail fox. Wang Wu attempted to appeal to their shared memories, calling her "Ling" and reminding her of their decades of sisterhood.
The Nine-tail fox scornfully rejected these appeals, dismissing Wang Wu as a "vile woman" and their friendship as a mere "game." She mocked Wang Wu and Wang Lu’s "hypocrisy" and "master-disciple bond," calling them "birds of a feather." Wang Lu stepped forward, insisting that Feng Ling could not deny her long-standing bond with Wang Wu and challenging her to admit if killing Wang Wu would truly bring her only joy. Chaiqi intervened, urging the Nine-tail fox not to be swayed.
The Nine-tail fox remained unrepentant, asserting that after 30 years of enduring indignity, she would show them no mercy. She then unleashed a powerful attack, severely injuring Wang Wu. Wang Lu bravely stepped forward to protect his master, but the Nine-tail fox, showing no compassion, prepared to deliver a final, deadly blow.
Episode 31 Recap
Nine-tail fox Feng Ling, having revealed her true form, injured Wang Wu and Wang Lu, mocking their concern as hypocritical. Wang Lu questioned if she could truly abandon the years spent with Wang Wu and Leader Feng Yin at Lingjian Mountain. Despite recalling their shared past, Feng Ling’s deep-seated hatred persisted, and she continued her attempts to kill them. She declared that she hated hypocritical humans and that her enemies must pay their blood debts.
Leader Feng Yin then intervened to stop her. Feng Ling confronted Feng Yin, accusing him of locking her in Lingjian Mountain for thirty years and merely pretending to be a loving father. Feng Yin admitted that initially, he was wary of her reverting to her demon form and escaping. However, he gradually forgot her demon nature and came to see her truly as his daughter.
He reminisced about their time together, teaching her martial arts and life lessons, and seeing her laugh and play. He urged her to remember these countless moments, not just her hatred. Wang Lu reinforced this, reminding Feng Ling that he and Wang Wu always regarded her as Feng Ling, a kind lady, a bestie, and a friend.
Feng Yin stepped closer, reiterating that he didn't care if she was human or demon; she was always his daughter, the "little Ling" who loved riding on his back and eating cake. As Feng Yin reached out to comfort her, Feng Ling struck him, causing his precious glasses to fall and break.
This reminded them both of a past incident when a young Feng Ling had accidentally broken his glasses, and he had lovingly repaired them with her hair tie, treasuring them ever since. Amidst Feng Ling's tears, Feng Yin took the Zhen Yuan Ci and stabbed himself, offering his life as atonement if she believed the Five Sects were responsible for her suffering.
Feng Ling, heartbroken by Feng Yin's self-sacrifice and remembering Xue Boren's death, finally understood that her deepest desire was simply to live an ordinary life with Xue Boren, free from hatred and harm. She cried, bid farewell to Feng Yin, and, in a profound act of self-sacrifice, expelled her demon core, offering it to the critically injured Xue Boren. Xue Boren, revived by Feng Ling's demon core, embraced her.
Feng Ling, smiling, transformed back into her human form and fainted in his arms. Xue Boren acknowledged that revenge only begets more suffering, expressing regret that if he had encountered the Lingjian Mountain group earlier, the outcome might have been different. He promised Feng Yin he would care for Feng Ling for the rest of their lives. To commit to a truly mortal existence with Feng Ling, he then destroyed his own demon core, becoming an ordinary human.
Inspired by their eldest brother's devotion, Xue Boren's three brothers also destroyed their demon cores, vowing to live as ordinary humans alongside them. The five of them then departed together from Jiyang. Back at Lingjian Mountain, Wang Wu wept, heartbroken by Feng Ling's departure. Wang Lu tried to console her, suggesting that a peaceful, ordinary life might be Feng Ling's true desire. Wang Wu expressed regret, wondering if a different outcome could have been achieved if she had done more.
Later that night, Hai Yunfan confronted Wang Lu, asking when he knew about Feng Ling's true identity as a Nine-tail fox. Wang Lu admitted he knew since Master Zhifeng's arrival and had intentionally kept it from Hai Yunfan due to his strong hatred for demons. Wang Lu highlighted Feng Ling's past kindnesses, from helping them pass tests to teaching them martial arts and protecting them during their travels, and even how she didn't kill them despite her transformation.
He questioned if these genuine emotions meant nothing compared to Hai Yunfan's abstract concepts. Hai Yunfan, however, was unyielding, stating that his deepest feelings were hatred for demons. He explained that Wang Lu hadn't experienced the despair of family betrayal or the helplessness of holding a loved one's body in blood. He believed that while Feng Ling might have stopped killing today, there was no guarantee demons wouldn't return in the future. Wang Lu noted Hai Yunfan's strong obsession.
Hai Yunfan affirmed it was his path and announced his decision to continue his training alone, not returning to Lingjian Mountain with Wang Lu. Wang Lu was saddened but did not stop him. As Hai Yunfan traveled alone, he encountered Du Songzi, who, noticing Hai Yunfan's solitude, praised his talent and courage in fighting demons.
Du Songzi attempted to recruit him into the Shengjing Sect, highlighting Lingjian Sect's perceived indecisiveness regarding demons and arguing that Shengjing Sect's demon-slaying philosophy and cultivation methods were a better fit. Hai Yunfan politely declined, affirming his loyalty to Lingjian Sect for saving him in the past. He also expressed suspicion about Du Songzi's persistent efforts, recognizing that Du Songzi had been waiting for him since early morning with ulterior motives.
When Hai Yunfan voiced his suspicions about Du Songzi's intentions to harm Lingjian Sect, Du Songzi, no longer hiding his true colors, immediately attacked him. Meanwhile, Feng Ling, Xue Boren, and his three brothers were traveling peacefully outside Jiyang City. A man in black suddenly appeared, expressing surprise that Feng Ling, even without her demon power, could maintain her human form.
He revealed his intention to take her and restore her Nine-tail fox powers, dismissing her desire for a peaceful life as childish. When Feng Ling refused, the man in black attacked, severely injuring Xue Boren and his brothers, who, now ordinary humans, were defenseless. The man in black, uninterested in a prolonged fight, swiftly abducted Feng Ling and vanished. Back at Lingjian Mountain, Feng Yin was distraught. Wang Wu consoled him, acknowledging his grief but also playfully teasing him.
She then revealed that during her investigation into the destruction of the Ten Thousand Laws Sect, she discovered the assailant used "Chazi Yanrong," a secret technique of Shengjing Sect, implying their involvement. Suddenly, Feng Yin sensed Feng Ling was in grave danger. Wang Lu rushed in, leading them to the location where Feng Ling and the Xue brothers had been attacked. They arrived to find all four Xue brothers dead, and Feng Ling was nowhere to be found.
Episode 32 Recap
Feng Yin, the leader of Lingjian sect, observed the recent events through a vision. He was inadvertently injured by a hidden weapon left behind by the black-clad man. Despite his injury, Feng Yin urged Wang Wu and Wang Lu to rescue Feng Ling, giving them a drop of his blood which could sense Feng Ling's location. Meanwhile, Feng Ling, taken by the black-clad man, awakened to find herself immobilized within a formation.
Under the black-clad man's control, Feng Ling revealed her true form as a Nine-tail fox. The black-clad man revealed his intention to restore Feng Ling to her former self. Wang Lu and Wang Wu followed the blood's guidance and arrived at Niu Village, the place where the Gold Generation had met its demise. Seeing the village evoked a memory full of regret for Wang Wu, and she paused, lost in thought.
Liang Qiu, Wang Wu's sword, appeared and was immediately chided by Wang Wu for showing Wang Lu the painful past. Liang Qiu retorted that Wang Wu had been lying to herself for a hundred years, pretending not to care, always getting emotional when Ouyang Shang was mentioned. Wang Wu then snapped back, accusing Liang Qiu of not recognizing Wang Lu as its master due to its attachment to Ouyang Shang. Liang Qiu dismissed Wang Wu's comments.
Wang Lu, sensing Wang Wu’s emotional distress, consoled her, reminding her that Ouyang Shang was a hero who kept his promises and would return. He urged her not to suffer in silence or force a smile, assuring her that he would always be there for her. Wang Wu dismissed his sentimental words, then questioned why he was suddenly defending Ouyang Shang, whom he used to dislike.
Wang Lu admitted Ouyang Shang was handsome in the vision, but still not as good-looking as himself. Liang Qiu then explained that Niu Village was the origin of the Black Tide. A hundred years ago, during the war between humans and demons, the King of Demons, facing defeat, attempted to use the Heavenly Demon Disintegration Magic to unseal the Black Tide's origin to bring about widespread destruction, aiming for mutual annihilation.
Liang Qiu showed Wang Lu a vision of the past battle, illustrating how Ouyang Shang, to prevent Wang Wu from perishing with him, sacrificed himself to stop the King of Demons and save the world. He restrained Wang Wu, who wanted to join him, and dragged the King of Demons into a fractured dimension alone.
Following this emotional moment, Wang Wu explained that the drop of blood given by Feng Yin was an amulet placed within Feng Ling, which would take time for even a powerful person to break. Wang Lu and Wang Wu continued their pursuit towards Feng Ling. The black-clad man, having sensed their approach, decided to stall them as his formation still needed more time. He withdrew from the formation to confront them directly.
They were navigating the area around Niu Village, which was fraught with numerous subspaces created by the influence of charms from the ancient Black Tide seal. Wang Wu warned Wang Lu not to touch the charms that served as gates to these dangerous subspaces. However, during a moment of carelessness, they inadvertently touched a charm and were pulled into an unknown subspace. Inside the subspace, Wang Lu and Wang Wu realized they needed to break the space’s rules to escape.
The rule here was to defeat the guardian. Wang Lu, however, found the guardian was already dead, making the task seem impossible. Wang Wu suggested they needed to bring the guardian to life, even partially, to make him capable of "struggling" before they could defeat him. She began injecting magic into the corpse. Wang Lu cautioned her not to infuse too much magic at once, fearing she might create a monster that would turn on them.
Despite his warning, Wang Wu accidentally infused an excessive amount of magic. The guardian reanimated and immediately attacked them fiercely, injuring Wang Wu, and possessing ninety percent of her magic. With Wang Wu injured, Wang Lu was left to face the guardian alone. Liang Qiu warned him that the guardian possessed ninety percent of Wang Wu's power, making him an impossible opponent.
She offered the only solution: Wang Lu must make a Heart Swear, vowing never to actively attack anyone again. This would instantly elevate his Wuxiang Sword spirit to its pinnacle. Without hesitation, Wang Lu agreed, prioritizing Wang Wu’s safety. He then rushed forward, intercepting a sword strike aimed at Wang Wu, who, having recovered, swiftly defeated the guardian. Wang Lu concealed the true reason behind his sudden defensive power.
With Feng Ling running out of time, Wang Wu couldn't press him for details, focusing instead on rescuing Feng Ling. Back at Feng Ling’s location, the black-clad man discovered a final protective barrier left by Feng Yin inside Feng Ling, but he noted it was only a temporary reprieve. By the time Wang Lu and Wang Wu arrived, it was too late.
The black-clad man had completed his ritual and escaped using the powerful Chǎzǐ Yānhóng spell, leaving Feng Ling unconscious and harmed. Wang Wu recognized the magic, confirming it was the same that injured Feng Yin, and suspected Shengjing Sect was behind the attack.
Wang Lu, furious, wanted immediate revenge, but Wang Wu cautioned him, reminding him of Shengjing Sect's immense power and their current inability to confront them directly without evidence, warning that any rash action could lead to their sect's downfall. After rescuing Feng Ling, Wang Wu revisited the question of how Wang Lu had blocked the guardian's attack. Wang Lu finally confessed that he had made the Heart Swear.
Wang Wu was furious, explaining the severe consequences of breaking such a vow—complete spiritual annihilation. However, Wang Lu justified his actions by stating the urgency of the situation and his sole desire to protect her, leaving Wang Wu internally conflicted. They decided to return to Lingjian sect. However, Hai Yunfan was nowhere to be found. Lihua had previously mentioned seeing Hai Yunfan with someone dressed in a robe that seemed to belong to Shengjing Sect, infuriating Wang Lu even further.
Feng Yin, still severely injured from the black-clad man's attack and having previously self-inflicted spiritual harm, was unable to confront Shengjing Sect. In this critical situation, Wang Wu seriously proposed becoming the acting leader. She stated that Shengjing Sect's aggressive actions against the Wanfa Immortal Gate and the Demon Clan were undoubtedly linked to the upcoming Five Sects Championships.
She requested full authority to design the competition's rules and events, promising to use the opportunity to expose Shengjing Sect's true nature. Feng Yin, recognizing her unique perspective, reluctantly agreed but warned her against recklessness, reminding her of Feng Ling's recent ordeal. Meanwhile, at Shengjing Sect, Du Songzi had imprisoned Hai Yunfan in the Trial Prison, intending to use him as a pawn against Lingjian sect and Junhuang Mountain in the upcoming Five Sects Championships.
He gloated about his scheme to his disciple. One year swiftly passed. The Five Sects Championships was about to begin at Lingjian sect, with Wang Wu serving as its acting leader and host. During a discussion about the competition's design, a fellow master commented that her plans seemed overtly aimed at Shengjing Sect.
Wang Wu, however, confidently declared that she could make them even more obvious if needed, asserting that exposing the true nature of the corrupt was the essence of fairness. With the golden seal of leadership in her possession, she dismissed the concerns, ready to face the challenges ahead as the Five Sects Championships commenced.
Episode 33 Recap
A year later, the Five Sects Championships was about to begin at Lingjian Sect. Wang Wu, acting as the interim leader, had designed the competition rules to be overtly unfavorable to Shengjing Sect. When Master Liu Xian, the second senior brother, reviewed her plans, he reminded her to be fair and impartial, as her actions reflected on the entire Lingjian Sect. Wang Wu, however, asserted her authority by referencing the Golden Seal, the symbol of the sect leader.
She argued that true fairness lay in exposing the deceitful nature of others. Liu Xian, in turn, advised her to rein in her unruly disciple, Wang Lu, so he would not cause more trouble, especially with their sect leader still in secluded cultivation. Wang Wu dismissed his concerns as blatant discrimination. As other sect leaders arrived, including Southern Immortal Weng from Kunlun and General Hai Tiankuo from Junhuang Mountain, politeness was exchanged.
General Hai, revealing his close relationship with Wang Wu, boasted of knowing Lingjian Sect's affairs intimately, even the location of their Treasure Hall. Master Dilun of Almighty Sect presented a priceless Jade Pill as a token of gratitude for Lingjian Sect Leader Feng's past assistance. However, when Shengjing Sect arrived by literally moving their entire city using the powerful Four Devarajas, Wang Wu did not hold back.
She openly ridiculed Master Shuiyue of Shengjing Sect for their ostentatious display of wealth, mocking the immense cost of transporting their city and suggesting they should simply buy out the Immortals Union if they were so rich. Insulted, Master Shuiyue angrily departed. Before the opening ceremony, Wang Lu instructed Wen Bao to sneak into Shengjing City after the competition's opening ceremony, when security would be at its lowest, to find Hai Yunfan.
He cautioned Wen Bao to immediately flee to Xuan Yun Hall, where the elders were gathered, if he encountered the Four Devarajas. During the opening ceremony, as Wang Wu discussed Ouyang Shang's whereabouts with General Hai, Wen Bao's cries for help echoed through Xuan Yun Hall. The elders immediately arrayed and swiftly destroyed the Four Devarajas, much to Master Shuiyue's fury.
Master Shuiyue confronted them, but Wang Wu feigned ignorance, claiming she didn't know the Four Devarajas could change size so dramatically. Master Shuiyue then demanded an explanation for Wen Bao's unauthorized entry into Shengjing City. Before Wen Bao could stammer out an answer, Wang Lu stepped forward, claiming responsibility.
Wang Lu boldly stated that he had forced Wen Bao to infiltrate Shengjing City to retrieve Wang Wu's cherished pink garment, which he claimed had been stolen by someone from Shengjing Sect. He recounted seeing a black-clad figure sneak into Wang Wu's room earlier that morning and stealing her clothes, then following them to Shengjing City, emphasizing he couldn't allow his master's reputation to be tarnished.
Master Shuiyue scoffed at the outlandish story, but Wang Lu proposed using the Heart Sword to expose the true thief from among all the assembled sect members. The proposal stirred curiosity among the onlookers. General Hai was the first to be tested, and Wang Lu, filling in for a "sore-throated" Fang He, questioned him; General Hai passed. Other disciples followed and also passed the test. Wang Wu, seemingly disappointed, mused whether she had overestimated her own charm.
Master Shuiyue then warned Wang Lu that if the thief was not found, he would be held accountable for slander. When it came to the last person, Du Songzi, a disciple of Shengjing, Wang Lu unexpectedly changed his question, asking if Shengjing Sect had kidnapped his brother, Hai Yunfan. Du Songzi denied it and, to Wang Lu's bewilderment, passed the Heart Sword test.
Just as Wang Lu pondered this inexplicable result, a masked Shengjing disciple stepped forward, pointing out that Wang Lu himself had not been tested. For the sake of fairness, he demanded that Wang Lu also undergo the Heart Sword test. Faced with no escape, Wang Lu publicly admitted that he was indeed the one who had taken his master's clothes, stunning the crowd. The masked disciple then removed his mask, revealing himself to be the long-missing Hai Yunfan.
Everyone present, especially Wang Lu, was shocked by this revelation. Master Shuiyue then proudly introduced Hai Yunfan as Shengjing Sect's newest disciple. Wang Lu confronted Hai Yunfan, who confirmed he had joined Shengjing Sect voluntarily. A flashback revealed Hai Yunfan's motivation: Master Shuiyue had shown him how to loosen the Restriction within his body, a task Lingjian Sect had been unable to accomplish.
Shuiyue offered to completely remove the Restriction if Hai Yunfan pledged allegiance to Shengjing Sect, portraying Lingjian as a sect that harbored demons, while Shengjing shared Hai Yunfan's deep-seated hatred for them. Desperate for power and revenge, Hai Yunfan agreed. Back in the main hall, Hai Yunfan coldly told Wang Lu that their paths diverged. He criticized Lingjian Sect as unreliable, particularly Wang Lu and Wang Wu, for their reckless conduct.
He declared that friendship was worthless if it did not provide him the power needed to annihilate all demons. To demonstrate his newfound strength, he unleashed an attack using his newly mastered Myriad Ghost Devouring Heart Great Law, which he had mastered in just one month, and attacked Wang Lu, leaving him wounded.
Seeing Hai Yunfan's betrayal, Wang Wu immediately expelled him from Lingjian Sect for his disloyalty, forbidding him from ever setting foot in the sect again after the competition. Master Shuiyue seized the opportunity, chastising Lingjian for using "emotional blackmail" and formally welcomed Hai Yunfan as his own disciple. Not content with Hai Yunfan's gain, Master Shuiyue then demanded that Wang Lu be punished for the disruption he caused.
Wang Wu, despite her internal anguish, agreed to publicly whip Wang Lu a hundred times, a punishment that was meant to be severe but, due to Wang Lu's perfected Wuxiang Kungfu, felt no worse than a "massage." Word quickly spread among the disciples about Wang Lu's public humiliation and Hai Yunfan's harsh betrayal, with some pitying Wang Lu while others remarked he deserved it for trusting Hai Yunfan.
Alone later, Wang Lu was dejected by Hai Yunfan's betrayal, admitting the plan to use the Heart Sword to expose Master Shuiyue's secrets had failed. Wang Wu explained that Shuiyue was a "sneaky fox" who likely used a Heart Locking Charm to thwart the Heart Sword's detection, and that even his own disciples seemed unaware of his true "scheme."
Despite the setback, Wang Wu pointed out their success in destroying the Four Devarajas, crippling Shuiyue's "biggest help" and preventing further trouble. Wang Lu jokingly asked for "worker's compensation" for his beating, but Wang Wu playfully dismissed him, remarking on Hai Yunfan's unexpected "fickleness." Meanwhile, Master Shuiyue praised Hai Yunfan's extraordinary talent in mastering the Myriad Ghost Devouring Heart Great Law so quickly, assuring him he would soon achieve his revenge against Hai Tiankuo.
After Hai Yunfan departed, Shuiyue consulted with Du Songzi, who identified Wang Lu and Wang Wu as their primary threats in the upcoming competition due to Wang Lu's unpredictable nature and Wang Wu's biased competition design. Shuiyue then instructed Du Songzi to take preemptive action against the pair.
Back at Lingjian Sect, Wang Wu, confident in her cunning, assured Wang Lu that he would clinch the first place in the competition, having meticulously designed the challenges to exploit Shengjing Sect's weaknesses. She dismissed other competitors as insignificant, identifying only Du Songzi and the "heartbreaker" Hai Yunfan as potential contenders. Her immediate goal was for Wang Lu to "win back his face."
Just then, Fang He urgently summoned Wang Wu to Xuan Yun Hall, announcing a major crisis, prompting Wang Wu to jokingly wonder if their sect leader had passed away, which would finally make her the official leader.
Episode 34 Recap
The sect elders urgently summoned Wang Wu, informing her that the Champion Tower, essential for the upcoming Five Sects Championships, had been eighty percent destroyed and would take at least seven days to repair, making it unusable for tomorrow's competition. Given the gravity of the situation, other sect leaders were also called to discuss a solution. As everyone felt helpless, Master Shuiyue offered her own artifact, the Spirit Gate, for Lingjian Sect to use as an emergency measure.
Wang Wu was furious, convinced that Shengjing Sect was behind the sabotage, but with time running out, she had no choice but to accept the Spirit Gate. Back in her quarters, Master Shuiyue praised Du Songzi and Hai Yunfan for their success in destroying the tower, which she believed would prevent Wang Lu and Wang Wu from cheating. She explained that the Spirit Gate's illusionary challenges were randomly generated and unpredictable, even for her as its creator, thus ensuring fairness.
She warned Du Songzi and Hai Yunfan to be especially wary of Xue Zefang from Junhuang Mountain and Wang Lu from Lingjian Sect, tasking them with keeping those two in check to secure Shengjing Sect's victory. The next day, the Five Sects Championships commenced. Wang Wu, acting as the chairwoman, welcomed the participants, explaining that contestants would be teleported into the Spirit Gate to face randomly generated illusionary challenges.
Each successfully passed level would earn points, and the disciple with the highest cumulative score would be crowned champion. Wang Lu was surprised by the sudden change in the artifact, as his meticulously laid plans for the original Champion Tower were now obsolete. Liu Li xian expressed concern about getting trapped inside, but Wang Lu motivated her by promising a lifelong free meal pass to all sect canteens if she became champion, which immediately changed her mind.
Meanwhile, the sect leaders, including Master Shuiyue, had to actively channel their magic into the Spirit Gate to ensure its proper functioning and the safety of the disciples inside. Master Shuiyue seized the opportunity to mock Wang Wu, implying she was a cheater, which Wang Wu angrily denied, suspecting Shengjing Sect's involvement in the Champion Tower's destruction. Inside the Spirit Gate, Wanfa Sect's Zhan Ziye quickly identified a weak point near a stone gate, impressing Kunlun Mountain's Zhou Mumu.
However, Junhuang Mountain's Xue Zefang scoffed at their observations, stating the obvious. Du Songzi then deliberately provoked Xue Zefang, hinting at his hidden affections for Zhou Mumu and bringing up Hai Yunfan's betrayal of Junhuang Mountain to join Shengjing Sect. This exchange quickly escalated into a heated argument, almost resulting in a physical altercation, but the sudden opening of the Spirit Gate and a countdown interrupted them, prompting everyone to rush inside.
As Shengjing Sect's disciples entered, Xue Zefang suddenly cast the Six Lights Prison spell, trapping them. Wang Lu quickly realized it was a trap. His warnings came too late, as most of the participants had already rushed into the fake Spirit Gate. Wang Lu confronted Du Songzi, exposing his trick.
An elder outside explained that Du Songzi had used a Flash Charm to distract everyone, then concealed the real entrance with the Mirror and Reflect illusion, creating a fake gate with a countdown to induce panic and force others into the trap. Wang Lu revealed he noticed Du Songzi's phantom lacked a shadow, and Hai Yunfan's unconvincing acting further exposed the deception.
Outside, Master Shuiyue and other elders confirmed that the trapped disciples were indeed sealed in a dimension sack, effectively eliminating them from the competition. While Du Songzi boasted about Shengjing Sect having all their disciples still in the game, compared to Lingjian Sect having lost half its numbers and other sects only one or two remaining, Wang Lu countered that numbers didn't guarantee victory.
The remaining participants, including Wang Lu, Wen Bao, Liu Li xian, and Zhu Qin from Lingjian Sect, along with Zhan Ziye from Wanfa Sect, Zhou Mumu from Kunlun Sect, and Shengjing Sect's Du Songzi and Hai Yunfan, then entered the true Spirit Gate. They arrived at the Eight Virtues Hall, adorned with eight gates representing virtues like filial piety, brotherhood, loyalty, and courtesy.
A disembodied voice announced that only those possessing the most virtues would win, and fighting was strictly forbidden, with violators immediately disqualified. Realizing their numerical disadvantage against Shengjing Sect, Zhan Ziye and Zhou Mumu approached Wang Lu to form an alliance. Wang Lu agreed, on the condition that they would blindly follow his commands. He decided to begin with the "Filial Piety" gate.
Inside the Filial Piety gate, they found themselves in a gambling setting with "Parents Tile" and "Children Tile." The rules stated that a "Parent" would give an unspecified amount of magic stones to a designated "Child," and the "Child" must then return double the amount to the "Parent" to complete the act of filial piety and earn points. " Parents" would gain money but no points.
It quickly became clear that only those with "Children Tiles" could earn points to pass. Du Songzi immediately brought out his Yin-Yang Treasure Chest, boasting about Shengjing Sect's vast wealth and offering to buy the "Children Tiles" from others. Zhu Qin, however, countered that he also possessed considerable wealth. Wang Lu then proposed a fair game: they would use all fourteen tiles (seven Parents, seven Children) for the fourteen remaining players.
One group would shuffle, and the other would draw seven tiles, leaving the rest for the opponent. Du Songzi agreed but demanded that everyone make a Heart Swear to honor the outcome and cooperate. Shengjing Sect took on the role of shuffling the cards, while Wang Lu's team would draw.
Zhu Qin attempted to use his Breaking Eye to identify the original cards, but Du Songzi, using the ancient Duplication Magic, created countless identical copies of the tiles, making it impossible to discern the true ones. Wang Wu, observing the scene, recognized the lost art, realizing that only by drawing the single original "mother tile" among the duplicates would the fake ones disappear.
At this critical moment, Liu Li xian, seeing the round tiles, exclaimed that they looked like the "Lord’s Pancakes" her master once brought back, noting that they were magical and seemingly endless. Wang Lu immediately understood; Liu Li xian's unique Sword Heart allowed her to distinguish truth from illusion. He motivated her with the promise of corn, urging her to pick the original "mother tiles." To everyone's astonishment, Liu Li xian effortlessly picked out five Children Tiles. As Wang Lu and his allies celebrated their unexpected success, Du Songzi erupted in a sudden, booming laugh.
Episode 35 Recap
Picking up from the previous round of the Five Faction Grand Competition, Liuli had successfully identified the Children Tiles for Wang Lu. However, Du Songzi of Shengjing Sect, seeing Liuli's talent for distinguishing between real and fake, gloated that it was too soon to celebrate. Wen Bao and Zhu Qin expressed shock as the cards suddenly changed. Du Songzi revealed his master's teaching about always having a "plan B" to be thorough.
He admitted to making a "little alteration" to his initial trick by rigging the cards with a transparent film during the shuffle, a fact Wang Lu confirmed. Du Songzi concluded that Wang Lu had discovered his trick too late.
This twist meant Wang Lu, who thought he had secured five Children Tiles, now found himself with only two, forcing him to admit defeat in that aspect and face a difficult choice of who among his six teammates would receive the precious two cards. Outside the Spirit Gate, Wang Wu criticized Shengjing Sect for using such a trick on a "girl with the mental age of a six-year-old," calling it shameful.
Master Shuiyue retorted that "competition comes first, friendship second," reminding Wang Wu of her own words. Master Shuiyue then expressed her displeasure, stating that if she had known the Spirit Gate was a "gambling house," she would not have allowed its use. Wang Wu retorted that "competition and practice require intelligence and wisdom," arguing there was no "good wisdom or bad wisdom." Master Shuiyue called it "sophistry."
Wang Wu told them to stop arguing and learn from General Hai, who was quietly watching the game. Master Shuiyue noted that General Hai's disciples had all lost, so he had nothing to talk about. Wang Wu then threatened to destroy the artifact, which would kill Master Shuiyue's disciples, but Master Shuiyue simply dared her to do so. Wang Wu called her shameless, remarking that Shuiyue's character was even more despicable than her own.
Du Songzi explained the Filial Piety Gate required absolute filial piety. With only two Children Tiles for six people, he asked Wang Lu which four he would abandon, trying to sow discord among the allies. Zhu Qin and Wen Bao worried about being sacrificed, noting Wang Lu's selfish nature and Zhu Qin's feeling of not having contributed enough.
Wang Lu, however, calmly stated that everyone would listen to him and declared that Wen Bao and Zhu Qin would take the Parents Tiles. Zhu Qin initially felt betrayed, while Hai Yunfan sarcastically praised Wang Lu's "selfless" act of sacrificing his own sect members. Wang Lu ignored him, confirming his decision to Du Songzi.
Wang Lu then instructed Zhu Qin and Wen Bao to take out all their money, stating that their "children" would then do their duties by doubling the money. Zhu Qin realized Wang Lu intended to profit off their impending elimination.
Wen Bao then revealed he had a massive 10 million Spirit Stones, claiming his father was the Master of Canglan and he was the "only child in his family," unlike Zhu Qin, the 7th Prince of Ming, who had six brothers. Wang Lu mocked Du Songzi, saying "your man loves showing off, so we're playing along." Hai Yunfan, despite being wary, agreed to double the money, stating that "what can be solved with money is no big deal."
Once the money was paid and the confirmation was made, the Spirit Gate announced Du Songzi, Wangyue Luanyu, Jiang Liu, Hai Yunfan, and Fang Qiang were all eliminated. Hai Yunfan was furious, demanding to know why they were out when they had Children Tiles. Outside, Wang Wu gloated at Master Shuiyue, suggesting her artifact was "too old," while Master Shuiyue accused Wang Lu of cheating.
Wang Wu countered that Master Shuiyue was a sore loser and teased her to "raise the bet" since General Hai had lost everything. Wang Lu then revealed the loophole: the rule "Of three forms of unfilial piety, having no heir is the gravest" was paramount. Even with Children Tiles, having no children of one's own meant being "unfilial," leading to elimination.
He explained that while the rule stated one person could only hold one "tile", it didn't mean they could only have one "identity". He himself, as well as the successful candidates, held both parent and child identities, thus fulfilling the "filial duty" completely. Wang Lu concluded that the game only required sacrificing the "first and last" in a chain for everyone else to pass. He mockingly called Du Songzi stupid for falling for his trick, then bid him "bye."
Wang Lu then announced that since Wen Bao and Zhu Qin had already acted as parents, only one of them could also be a child to complete the family chain. Zhu Qin, feeling guilty for his Eye of Breaking Illusions not being useful, willingly stepped aside, allowing Wen Bao to gain the points. Wang Lu promised Zhu Qin he would help him pass the next round.
The Spirit Gate confirmed Liuli, Zhou Mumu, Zhan Ziye, and Wen Bao passed and gained 10 points each, while Wang Lu, Zhu Qin, and all Shengjing Sect disciples received zero points. As the first round concluded, a sudden change occurred. Wang Wu exclaimed for everyone to "be careful" as black energy surged. Wang Wu demanded to know if Master Shuiyue was behind it, accusing her of such a scheme "just to win a competition."
Master Shuiyue, with a sinister smile, revealed her true ambition extended beyond victory, telling them to check their hands. Wang Wu recognized the "Demonic Qi of the Black Tide," confirming Master Shuiyue's nefarious plot. Master Shuiyue admitted she had "gone to great lengths to find it" and succeeded. She declared that soon, the sect leaders would all become her puppets, just like Lord Tianlun.
Wang Wu vehemently refused, stating she would "rather die than be a puppet," but Master Shuiyue challenged her to "kill herself now." Master Shuiyue explained that the "Puppet Matrix" was installed in the Spirit Gate, ensuring none of them could escape. She had no intention of killing them, as that would make her a sinner. Instead, she wanted them to "become her servants" so she would be "the master of all Five Sects."
She then revealed that the Puppet Matrix was located in the Eight-Virtue Hall, and with each round completed by the disciples, the array would upgrade, culminating in the sect leaders losing their minds and becoming her puppets. Master Shuiyue asserted that no matter who won the competition, Shengjing Sect would be the "ultimate winner." Wang Wu angrily called her a "monster."
Wang Wu tried to resist, but Master Shuiyue reminded them that the Spirit Gate's operation depended on the combined spiritual power of all five sect leaders. If any of them left their position, the artifact's balance would be destroyed, and all their disciples would die. Unaware of the precarious situation outside, the trial disciples continued their journey within the Spirit Gate, entering the "Brotherhood" section.
Wang Lu lightheartedly asked Hai Yunfan if he knew what "brotherhood" meant, prompting Hai Yunfan to tell him to focus on the rules. The Spirit Gate announced the rules: teams of two would be formed as "brothers," each with 100 chips for both "external"and "internal" conflicts. A total of over 100 chips for external defense would be considered success, earning double rewards. If below 100, both would be disqualified.
After external success, the winner of the internal fight (whoever had more chips) would take all the rewards. A tie meant an even split. To pass, each participant needed at least 200 chips. Wen Bao asked Wang Lu to clarify the rules. Wang Lu humorously explained that it boiled down to fighting each other (internal conflict) or cooperating against "scoundrels like Hai Yunfan" (external conflict), with a final "winner" still determined afterward.
The Spirit Gate added conditions: chips could not be replicated, destroyed, or added, and participants must make decisions independently within a time limit, or they would be disqualified. Wen Bao again expressed confusion about the connection to "brotherhood." Wang Lu dismissed it, calling the rules a "Prisoner's Dilemma" and the "Virtues Test" a "sham," arguing that his own "roguish" nature proved virtue wasn't the key to winning.
Hai Yunfan sarcastically agreed, prompting Wang Lu to retort that he wasn't "immoral" like Hai Yunfan. Wang Lu then gathered his teammates, including Liuli, Wen Bao, and Zhou Mumu, to discuss a strategy. He outlined two paths to victory. The first involved both brothers allocating all 100 chips to external defense, earning 400 chips total, which they would split to each get 200 and pass.
However, he warned that one could betray the other by holding back just one chip for the internal fight, thus winning everything. This method, he stressed, only worked for "trusted teammates." The second method involved dividing chips between external and internal, with the winner of the internal fight taking all rewards, provided at least 50 chips each were put into external defense to reach the 100-chip threshold.
He pointed out that if both sides put 50 into external and 50 into internal, they would both end up with 100 chips, leading to mutual elimination. Wang Lu also highlighted Shengjing Sect's advantage if teams were random due to their larger numbers. He then secretly revealed his actual plan to his team, telling them to come closer. When Wen Bao asked if his plan would work, Wang Lu replied, "Believe it or not."
Hai Yunfan, approaching Wang Lu, declared he wouldn't be "fooled again" and vowed to win this round. Both sides confirmed their readiness, and the challenge began. Coincidentally, the trial paired Wang Lu and Hai Yunfan together. Hai Yunfan immediately expressed his distrust and intent to win.
Wang Lu decided to write down his chip allocation first, giving Hai Yunfan the choice: either they both allocate zero to external defense and get eliminated together, or Hai Yunfan contributes all his chips for external defense, allowing Wang Lu to then dominate him in the internal fight. Hai Yunfan was furious, refusing to be played again.
Wang Lu then suggested they both simply put nothing towards external defense, ensuring their joint elimination, stating it would be less embarrassing for Hai Yunfan. Hai Yunfan realized Wang Lu was trying to force a mutual defeat. Wang Lu feigned disappointment, suggesting he thought Hai Yunfan would show "a little bit of brotherhood" for old times' sake. With time running out, Wang Lu confirmed his choice to put zero chips into external defense and walked away.
Hai Yunfan, enraged, decided to also allocate zero, ensuring they both were eliminated. The Spirit Gate confirmed both Wang Lu and Hai Yunfan were out. Wang Lu continued to taunt Hai Yunfan about their "fragile relationship" and being more "heartless" than him. Despite Wang Lu's elimination, Du Songzi believed Shengjing Sect's numerical advantage would secure victory. However, the Spirit Gate announced that Liuli, Zhu Qin, Wen Bao, Zhan Ziye, and Zhou Mumu had all passed.
Du Songzi was stunned, demanding to know where his other members were, only to hear the announcement that Wangyue Luanyu, Xu Peng, Xiao Cun, Li Jiu, and Fang Qiang were all eliminated. Du Songzi accused Wang Lu of cheating again. Wang Lu simply told him to guess. He then explained his strategy to his remaining teammates: rules were "traps," and the key was to "take control." If an opponent was weaker, they should be immediately "knocked out."
This would count as an abstention for the opponent, allowing the stronger player to use their opponent's 100 chips for external defense and pass. If the opponent was stronger, Wang Lu suggested a "sneak attack"—any method to "knock them down with one strike." Wen Bao enthusiastically confirmed the effectiveness of this violent approach. Hai Yunfan angrily retorted that the rules prohibited "fighting," demanding to know how Wang Lu's team passed.
Wang Lu scoffed, explaining that a "unilateral knockout" wasn't a "fight" but merely a "sneak attack." Hai Yunfan then questioned why Wang Lu hadn't attacked him, prompting Wang Lu to sarcastically ask if Hai Yunfan thought he "still had feelings for him," before stating that if he hadn't taken an Oath, he would have "beaten him to death." Wang Lu then left, saying he was "done talking."
After the second round, the Spirit Gate announced scores: Liuli, Zhan Ziye, Zhou Mumu, and Wen Bao each had 20 points, while Zhu Qin, Du Songzi, and Jiang Liu each had 10 points. All others had zero. Master Shuiyue, still observing the competition, expressed her enjoyment of its unpredictability and mused about which disciple would "send them on their way." She then challenged Wang Wu to a bet on who would win.
Wang Wu confidently declared Wang Lu would be the champion due to his intelligence. Master Shuiyue taunted that since Wang Wu was going to become a puppet anyway, she wanted to win a bet against her while she was still clear-headed. Inside the Spirit Gate, the disciples entered the "Loyalty section. Wang Lu found this round interesting, noting it involved neither cards nor chips.
The Spirit Gate announced the rules: participants must declare a single, unchangeable object of loyalty, and could then challenge another person's loyalty once. If a person's loyalty was successfully questioned, they would be eliminated. To pass, one must maintain their own loyalty and successfully question another's. Wen Bao and Wang Lu initially wondered if this round truly tested virtue, but Wang Lu quickly dismissed it, believing it to be another trick.
He compared the "doubt" mechanism to a debate's "surprise attack" and decided to go first. Du Songzi eagerly declared his loyalty to Shengjing Sect. Wang Lu questioned him directly: if Shengjing Sect were to "split up," which side would he choose? Du Songzi insisted his sect would never split, but Wang Lu exposed his ignorance by recounting historical instances of mysterious deaths and disappearances during Shengjing Sect's leadership transitions, implying internal strife.
When Du Songzi admitted ignorance, Wang Lu chastised him for claiming loyalty while being unable to face his sect's "dark history." The Spirit Gate then confirmed Wang Lu's successful challenge, eliminating Du Songzi. Master Shuiyue observed Wang Lu's unconventional thinking, noting that his intelligence was inadvertently helping her scheme by advancing the trial and pushing the sect leaders closer to becoming her puppets. Wang Lu, calling Hai Yunfan "Cannon Fodder" again, announced he would show everyone "what loyalty is."
He then declared his loyalty to an abstract, nonsensical sound, claiming it was a "symbol" for a "mysterious substance" that "can’t be detected" or "announced." He welcomed others to question him. Hai Yunfan was perplexed, finding Wang Lu's statement "ridiculous but impeccable." Du Songzi, despite his earlier elimination, was also bewildered, demanding how one could be loyal to something indescribable. Wang Lu simply replied, "No comment," pointing out the rules didn't require him to answer.
Du Songzi called it "sophistry" and admitted Wang Lu's "Wuxiang Sword Bone" and "gift of gab" made him a master of defense. Hai Yunfan quickly caught on to Wang Lu's trick and mimicked his declaration, stating his loyalty to "mie mie" (the sound of a sheep), a similar "mysterious substance" that couldn't be detected or named, and welcomed Wang Lu to question him.
Following Wang Lu's lead, Liuli, Wen Bao, Zhu Qin, Zhan Ziye, and Zhou Mumu all declared loyalty to equally vague and mysterious "symbols" like "momo," "dududu," "biyobiyo," "heihei," and "nene." Du Songzi, observing that Shengjing Sect still had more members, boasted that he would win this round. However, Wang Lu then suddenly declared that the "thing" he described, which "can’t be detected in any way," simply "doesn’t exist." Therefore, his declared loyalty was "false," and he chose to "doubt himself," causing the symbol of loyalty above his head to crack.
Episode 36 Recap
After Wang Lu broke his own loyalty, he then questioned everyone else's loyalty. As his words fell, all their loyalties shattered. Wang Lu had carefully planned this, knowing that if no one else scored, their current advantage would ensure an easy victory. He further instructed Liu Li Xian to destroy all the remaining gates, ensuring no one else could win.
To end the Spirit Gate trial, he provoked Du Songzi, inciting a mass brawl, which led to everyone's expulsion from the trial. During the fight, Hai Yunfan and Wang Lu exchanged a knowing glance, revealing that this entire situation was their scheme. Earlier, Hai Yunfan had secretly met with Wang Lu. Hai Yunfan communicated his intention to infiltrate the Shengjing Sect, despite Wang Lu's strong disapproval.
Hai Yunfan remained resolute, and by the time Wang Lu turned, Hai Yunfan had already departed. With Hai Yunfan acting as an undercover agent in the Shengjing Sect, he placed a wiretap charm on Master Shuiyue. This allowed Wang Lu to receive messages from Hai Yunfan during the trial, thus uncovering Master Shuiyue's cunning plan. Hai Yunfan had revealed that Master Shuiyue had set up the Zhou Tian puppet matrix within the Virtues Hall.
He explained that the matrix would upgrade with each passed trial, and once fully completed, all participants would lose their minds and become Master Shuiyue's puppets. Realizing the danger, Wang Lu and Hai Yunfan understood they had to end the trial immediately.
Based on Hai Yunfan's information, Wang Lu devised a plan: they would maintain a pretense of winning to avoid suspicion, then provoke Du Songzi into a brawl to get everyone disqualified and terminate the trial, thus saving Wang Wu. This strategic maneuver led to the current situation, and as Wang Lu predicted, they were indeed all expelled from the Spirit Gate. Master Shuiyue's scheme was ruined, and her formation was destroyed, causing her to suffer a backlash.
This freed the sect leaders, who were now able to unite against Master Shuiyue. However, when Wang Wu confronted Master Shuiyue, Master Shuiyue unexpectedly implicated Hai Tiankuo. Seizing the moment, Hai Tiankuo severely injured Lord Dilun and the other sect leaders while they were distracted. Wang Wu found herself isolated, facing both Master Shuiyue and Hai Tiankuo. But Hai Tiankuo did not turn Wang Wu into a puppet as Master Shuiyue desired.
Instead, he wounded Master Shuiyue, indicating his objectives differed from hers. He then took Master Shuiyue's Goddess Stone and abducted Wang Wu. Wang Wu warned Hai Tiankuo that the Lingjian Sect would not let him get away with it if he harmed her. Hai Tiankuo, in turn, told her that he knew she wanted to see Ouyang Shang and that he would take her to him.
Wang Lu and Hai Yunfan, having exited the Spirit Gate, rushed to the hall, where the severely injured Lord Dilun informed them of Hai Tiankuo's involvement. Wang Lu then realized that Hai Tiankuo was the man in black who had previously harmed Feng Ling. Knowing this, Wang Lu understood where Hai Tiankuo would have taken Wang Wu. Hai Tiankuo brought Wang Wu to Niu Village, to the sealed Black Tide well, intending to make her witness Ouyang Shang's resurrection.
He revealed that he was also responsible for stealing the Blood Magic Pearl and Feng Ling’s nine tails, all for the purpose of reviving Ouyang Shang. Hai Tiankuo explained their past to Wang Wu: 108 years ago, he and Ouyang Shang were like brothers. During a training expedition near the well, Hai Tiankuo was captured by the King of Demon. Ouyang Shang, in saving him, was bitten and infected with the Black Tide.
Hai Tiankuo used the Junhuang's Changing Magic to transfer the evil to himself, sealing it within a totem, which would hold for ten years. Ouyang Shang promised they would eliminate the evil together after they both reached the Nascent Soul stage. However, Ouyang Shang later sacrificed himself by perishing with the King of Demon to save Wang Wu and the common people, becoming a hero.
Meanwhile, Hai Tiankuo, unable to remove the evil after ten years, transformed into a half-human, half-demon monster. He wanted Ouyang Shang to experience the same monstrous fate. Just as Hai Tiankuo was about to act against Wang Wu, Wang Lu and Hai Yunfan arrived. Hai Yunfan immediately confronted Hai Tiankuo, accusing him of killing his parents and entire clan, to which Hai Tiankuo admitted, saying they were in his way.
Wang Lu told Hai Yunfan to stall Hai Tiankuo while he rescued Wang Wu, but he found Wang Wu bound by the Magical Rope, which could not be cut. Realizing Hai Yunfan was no match for Hai Tiankuo alone, Wang Lu joined him in the fight. As they fought together, Hai Tiankuo unleashed the 36 Lights Prison, the supreme stage of Junhuang imprisonment magic, trapping them.
Wang Lu warned Hai Tiankuo that he would tear him apart if he harmed Wang Wu, but Hai Tiankuo dismissed his threat, asserting that Wang Lu's Heart Demon Oath prevented him from attacking first. Hai Tiankuo then explained he would use the Ternary Patronus, utilizing three ancient artifacts, to enter Wang Wu's dream and revive Ouyang Shang from her memories. He warned that if Wang Wu suffered any harm in the dream, she might never awaken.
To save Wang Wu, Hai Yunfan, despite being heavily injured, used the Qianyuan kungfu to break the 36 Lights Prison. Despite being surprised at Hai Yunfan's mastery of such a technique, Wang Lu, with Wang Wu in critical danger, had no time to ponder. Hai Yunfan urged Wang Lu to find Wang Wu quickly in the dream before Hai Tiankuo could harm her. Wang Lu entered Wang Wu's dream, and using his understanding of her, quickly found her.
When Wang Wu awoke in the dream, she mistook Wang Lu for Ouyang Shang and kissed him, leaving Wang Lu momentarily stunned. It was only when she called out "Senior brother" that Wang Lu came to his senses and pushed her away, clarifying that he was Wang Lu. Hai Tiankuo then seized Wang Wu from the side and imprisoned her within the 36 Lights Prison. Wang Lu forced Hai Tiankuo to attack him, creating an opportunity to counter.
However, Wang Lu was ultimately no match for Hai Tiankuo and was severely wounded, falling unconscious. Hai Tiankuo, disregarding Wang Lu's condition, sought to find Ouyang Shang. Just as he prepared to kill Wang Wu to force Ouyang Shang's appearance, Wang Lu suddenly stirred, now speaking with Ouyang Shang's voice, and blocked Hai Tiankuo's attack. Wang Lu had become Ouyang Shang.
Ouyang Shang confronted Hai Tiankuo, who remained unrepentant, asserting that his actions were justified to revive Ouyang Shang, and that the deaths were worthy. Seeing Hai Tiankuo's continued delusion, Ouyang Shang, stating he would act on behalf of heaven, incapacitated Hai Tiankuo by destroying his cultivation, warning him not to harm anyone again. To compensate Hai Tiankuo for his past sacrifices, Ouyang Shang then materialized from Wang Lu's body and moved towards Hai Tiankuo, stating he would now pay his debt.
Episode 37 (Ending) Recap
Having taken the curse from Hai Tiankuo onto himself and stripped Hai Tiankuo of his cultivation, Ouyang Shang, in Wang Lu's form, sent Hai Tiankuo out of Wang Wu's dream. Ouyang Shang informed the departing Hai Tiankuo that he had only two months of life left, emphasizing that this was repayment for what he owed him. Upon his return, Hai Tiankuo was immediately confronted by Hai Yunfan, who, consumed by hatred, launched a series of lethal attacks.
As Hai Yunfan was about to achieve his revenge, Xu Zetian appeared and intervened, claiming that General Hai was not the one who killed Hai Yunfan's parents. Hai Tiankuo quickly cut Xu Zetian off and told him to protect his younger brother, before Xu Zetian whisked him away. Hai Yunfan was left with a lingering doubt about the truth. Meanwhile, in the dream, Wang Wu finally reunited with Ouyang Shang, whom she had awaited for a century.
Wang Wu expressed her desire for them to leave together, and Wang Lu, though feigning a smile, encouraged them to do so. Unbeknownst to Wang Wu, Ouyang Shang's revival by the Goddess Stone was only temporary, lasting for "one stick of incense time," meaning he could not leave the dream. Realizing his limited time, Ouyang Shang gently knocked Wang Wu unconscious and entrusted her to Wang Lu.
He explained his situation to Wang Lu and revealed Wang Wu's true feelings for him. Ouyang Shang admitted his envy for Wang Lu, who could always be by Wang Wu's side, and clarified that Wang Wu's affection for Wang Lu was genuine, not merely because Wang Lu shared his Void Magic Root.
He explained that Wang Wu had changed since Wang Lu entered her life, gaining a newfound spark in her eyes and a hope in her heart, enabling her to laugh freely and sincerely. Ouyang Shang urged Wang Lu to ensure Wang Wu lived happily every day and to help her move past her century of waiting. With this understanding, Wang Lu embraced Wang Wu and the dream began to collapse around them, as Ouyang Shang faded away.
Wang Lu carried Wang Wu out of the collapsing dream. When Wang Wu awoke, she deliberately avoided the serious topic, pretending she had no recollection of the events, asking if Hai Tiankuo had "robbed her money or molested her." She dismissed it as inconsequential, humorously asserting that as the Non-Phase Peak was poor, there was no money to steal, and if she was "molested," she wasn't the one at a disadvantage.
Wang Lu playfully pointed out her age, questioning her request for a "youth maintenance fee." Wang Wu retorted that she wasn't that old and needed "good care," threatening to expel him from the sect. Wang Lu teased her, asking if she could truly bear to lose him. Respecting her denial, Wang Lu suggested they play mahjong. At the Home Inn, Wang Lu, Wang Wu, Hai Yunfan, and Wen Bao were engrossed in a game of mahjong.
Wen Bao was having a lucky streak. Feng Ling and Xue Boren, the latter in his dog form, returned to the inn after their seclusion. Wang Wu playfully disrupted the game to greet Feng Ling, claiming she had missed her. Feng Ling confirmed her injuries had healed and that the leader, Feng Yin, had also emerged from seclusion.
However, due to the serious incident involving the Shengjing Sect, he had been immediately summoned to an urgent meeting with the other sect leaders of the Immortal Union. After the game, Hai Yunfan asked Wang Lu to speak privately, stating he had something important to tell him. Wang Lu initially suspected Hai Yunfan was going to explain how he managed to break the Thirty-Six Lights Prison using Qianyuan Burning Blood Skill.
Instead, Hai Yunfan revealed that he had brought Wang Lu there to say goodbye, emphasizing that he was serious and had to leave. Wang Lu tried to persuade him to stay, reminding him that Lingjian sect was his home and they were like brothers. Hai Yunfan explained that they were fundamentally different: Wang Lu cultivated out of love and a desire to save others, while Hai Yunfan's cultivation stemmed from hatred and his need for revenge.
He could not forget the tragedy of his parents' death, stating that his life had never truly been his own. He feared that if he remained with Wang Lu, he would falter, become soft, and lose his determination for revenge. He insisted Wang Lu could not help him and would only hinder his path. Hai Yunfan, unwavering in his decision, promised Wang Lu that he would return after achieving his revenge.
The two friends shared a heartfelt embrace before Hai Yunfan departed. Feeling the pain of his friend's departure, Wang Lu returned to Non-Phase Peak and drank alone, reminiscing about the shared adventures and life-or-death moments he had experienced with Hai Yunfan. All the touching memories flooded his mind, leaving him saddened that their profound friendship had ended so abruptly. Wang Wu came to comfort him, engaging in their usual playful banter.
As their conversation deepened and the emotions from Hai Yunfan's departure made Wang Lu cherish those closest to him, especially Wang Wu, whom he loved, he spontaneously pulled her into a passionate kiss. Meanwhile, Hai Yunfan, traveling alone, wrestled with Xu Zetian's cryptic words, questioning who the true killer of his parents was. Suddenly, the Restriction within him began to destabilize, and dark smoke violently surged from his body, causing him agonizing pain as he lost control.
At the same moment, the Lingjian sect leader, Feng Yin, using the Star Observation Art, observed the ominous signs of the Demon King's rebirth, realizing that a great catastrophe was about to descend upon the Nine Continents.
