The World of Fantasy Recap, Plot, Synopsis
The World of Fantasy Synopsis
Qin Lie, a teenager with amnesia, is accidentally involved in a conspiracy, and after going through all sorts of hardships, he grows up with his childhood friend Ling Yushi and other friends in “Ling yu” and starts a new journey.
This group of hot-blooded teenagers, in search of the truth of their origins and the pursuit of stronger power, constantly meet good mentors and friends on the road, and get together to protect “Ling yu”!
The World of Fantasy Recap
Episode 1 Recap
In the dark of night, a group led by Qin Lie, with Ling Ying and Ling Xin close behind, ventured through the snowfield. Qin Lie sensed the presence of a Silver Flame Spider, and soon after, they discovered the frozen body of Yao Yao's father. Qin Lie surmised that the spider was responsible for the death and other misfortunes. Seeking revenge, the group charged at the spirit beast but found themselves outmatched by its formidable power.
Only Qin Lie stood firm, unleashing powerful electric shocks that eventually brought the beast down. Meanwhile, in Icestone City, Du Shao Yang, the Young Master of Xingyun Pavilion, gazed towards Ling Borough, remarking on the beauty of its moon. Du Hai Tian, the Acting Master of Xingyun Pavilion, approached his son, urging him to marry a woman from Ling Borough. Du Shao Yang calmly agreed, showing no curiosity about the prospective bride, as if completely indifferent.
The Silver Flame Spider, however, was not defeated. It rose again, renewing its attack on Qin Lie. After several intense exchanges, Qin Lie's thunder energy began to wane. Ling Ying quickly reminded him to use his Thunder Storage Jade Plate. Qin Lie then drew the jade plate from his waist and directed its power towards the spirit beast.
The surge of energy from the plate caused the skies to darken dramatically, with thunderclouds rolling in, drawing the attention of Du Shao Yang and Du Hai Tian in Xingyun Pavilion. Elsewhere on the snowfield, Ling Yushi approached the group, holding a torch, her expression filled with sorrow.
She had come to visit her friend Yao Yao, only to learn that Yao Yao's father and brother had tragically died on the snowfield while attempting to retrieve beast cores to cure her illness. The sight of Yao Yao's father's remains lying on the icy ground left everyone in somber silence. With the Moon Ritual approaching and the spirit tide still active, they decided to return to Ling Borough with the bodies.
Qin Lie carried Ling Yushi, who was still recovering from a lingering fire poison, as they made their way through the snowy expanse. The next day, Qin Lie awoke in Ling Borough. His friend, Hua Yuxin, holding an unknown book, intently questioned Qin Lie about his persistent nightmares. Hua Yuxin suspected the dreams were connected to a Soul Suppressing Orb sealed within Qin Lie's mind, which had suppressed his memories from before the age of ten.
Qin Lie was determined to master artefact forging skill and, once his power was sufficient, use thunder power to crack open the orb and recover his memories. Hua Yuxin, however, expressed concern, explaining that each breakthrough in cultivation—from Natal Opening to Manifestation to Netherpassage—brought a thunder tribulation. He worried not only about Qin Lie's chances of surviving these tribulations but also about the risk of inadvertently striking himself dead.
As they spoke, Ling Xuanxuan burst into the room, eager to recruit Qin Lie for a hunt in Qiongying Hollow. Qin Lie and Hua Yuxin refused due to the dangers of the valley and the Feathered Beasts, but the strong-willed Ling Xuanxuan persisted. Qin Lie diverted her attention by mentioning the Moon Ritual that evening. After Ling Xuanxuan and Hua Yuxin left, Qin Lie resumed his cultivation, focusing on strengthening his thunder power.
On Ling Borough's Herb Mountain, Ling Yushi diligently ground herbs and watered plants. Inside, a delicate Qiongying fruit required six years of meticulous care to ripen; it was a guiding herb vital for the Xingyun Pavilion's Old Master. The Ling family, dependent on Xingyun Pavilion and known for generations as herb growers, naturally cared for this precious plant with utmost attention.
Ling Cheng Ye instructed Ling Ying to ensure its meticulous care, emphasizing that the Ling family's survival relied on Xingyun Pavilion, and no mistakes could be made with the fruit. Later, Ling Yushi found Qin Lie, marveling at his ability to cultivate such potent thunder power while only in the Refinement Realm. She speculated that the incantation Qin Shan had given him was remarkably effective, perhaps originating from a high-rank continent.
Ling Yushi expressed regret that her innate water spirit constitution and existing fire poison prevented her from practicing such incantations, forcing her to focus on water spirit powers to suppress her condition. As Qin Lie ate the food Ling Yushi had brought, he again spoke of his dreams and his plan to open the Soul Suppressing Orb, reiterating his ambition to advance his abilities, travel to the Artefact Forging Sect, and find his grandfather.
Watching his excitement, Ling Yushi's spirits fell. She asked if Ling Borough held anything worth staying for. Qin Lie, oblivious to her unspoken sentiment, merely reiterated his desire to cultivate and explore higher realms. The previous night's battle with the spirit beast had caused Qin Lie to use up the Yixin leaf Ling Yushi had given him. Concerned, Ling Yushi handed him another carefully cultivated Yixin leaf. They discussed the upcoming Moon Ritual, where everyone would write down a wish.
Ling Yushi was curious about Qin Lie's wish, but he stubbornly refused to reveal it and showed no curiosity when she offered to share her own. Feeling slighted, Ling Yushi abruptly gathered the dishes, leaving Qin Lie alone to continue his thunder cultivation. Ling Xuanxuan observed her sister, Ling Yushi, leaving the cave looking downcast.
She advised Ling Yushi to give up her attachment to Qin Lie, pointing out that his dangerous thunder cultivation meant he could die at any moment and was likely unburdened by attachments, including to her. Ling Yushi, however, explained that she loved Qin Lie's resolute and strong character. She recounted how ten years prior, during a spirit tide when a rare shooting star appeared, she had seen it with Qin Lie.
While she wanted to make a wish, Qin Lie believed one should achieve their desires through their own efforts, not through wishes. She declared that Qin Lie's ambitions extended far beyond Ling Borough. Whether he stayed or left, she would remain by his side, unwavering in her devotion, even if it meant following him to the snowfield of the far north or lands of gold and silver. As night fell, Ling Cheng Ye presided over the Moon Ritual.
He played a bamboo flute as white snow drifted down, and the town celebrated joyously. However, the festivities were abruptly interrupted by the arrival of the Xingyun Pavilion delegation, led by Du Shao Yang and the Ye family's Deacon Zhuo Qian. They immediately ordered Qin Lie's arrest, forcefully apprehending him and taking him to Xingyun Pavilion's premises for interrogation.
Ling Cheng Ye attempted to intercede, but Zhuo Qian sternly accused Qin Lie of using thunder power to massacre the inhabitants of thirty-three outlander villages. She asserted that Qin Lie was the only thunder practitioner in the vast snowfield of the far north. Qin Lie, facing the baseless accusations, remained silent and impassive. He understood the political game at play: the Old Master of Xingyun Pavilion was gravely ill, and the Du and Ye families were covertly vying for control.
The Du family's actions were a tactic to trouble Qin Lie, thereby coercing the Ling family into supporting them in exchange for Qin Lie's protection. Qin Lie, fully aware of this, requested that his interrogation be postponed until after the celebration, wanting the Ling Borough residents to enjoy their festival undisturbed. Unintimidated by their authority, Qin Lie rejected Zhuo Qian's implicit offer of a deal and defiantly returned to the woodshed.
Ling Cheng Ye then tried to reassure the villagers, falsely stating that Xingyun Pavilion had cleared Qin Lie of all suspicion, and it was merely a misunderstanding. Ling Xuanxuan, Hua Yuxin, and Ling Yushi observed Du Shao Yang and Zhuo Qian guarding the woodshed. Ling Xuanxuan revealed a secret tunnel hidden within the woodshed, an old passage from their childhood, intending to help Qin Lie escape.
Ling Yushi, however, was certain that Qin Lie's character would not allow him to flee. True to her word, Qin Lie did use the secret tunnel to leave the woodshed, but his intention was simply to await the rising of the full moon, not to escape his predicament. Hua Yuxin tried to force Qin Lie to leave Ling Borough, but at that moment, Du Shao Yang appeared, catching them both.
Realizing the gravity of the situation, Qin Lie whispered instructions to Hua Yuxin to relay a message to Ling Cheng Ye: the Ye family intended to use Qin Lie to gain Ling Borough's support, and he needed the Chief's advice on how to proceed. Qin Lie then urged Hua Yuxin to leave quickly. Du Shao Yang calmly approached Qin Lie, both men harboring their own thoughts.
Du Shao Yang, curious about Qin Lie's disregard for Xingyun Pavilion, inquired about his true ambitions. He attempted to forge an. However, Qin Lie saw through Du Shao Yang's manipulative nature, leading to a tense verbal exchange. Though no physical blows were exchanged, their sharp words created an immediate and palpable sense of animosity, escalating the tension between them.
Qin Lie challenged Du Shao Yang's stated purpose of being there solely to investigate, questioning why he deviated to talk about grander ambitions. Du Shao Yang responded that it was because they were not "hitting it off," then curtly ordered Qin Lie to return to the woodshed, threatening to resort to force.
Episode 2 Recap
Du Shao Yang observed the lively celebrations of Ling Borough's villagers with a cold, disdainful gaze, his thoughts consumed by Qin Lie, whom he was determined to eliminate. Du Fei, standing beside Du Shao Yang, suggested that the Ling Family was ungrateful and that arresting them all would force their submission.
Du Shao Yang questioned this approach, and Du Fei explained that Ling Borough's people, situated in the harsh northern Chilan Continent, lacked resources and were accustomed to hardship, having little to lose. He warned that direct confrontation would only lead to mutual destruction, and that such people, when pushed to their limit, would risk everything. Recognizing the pragmatism, Du Shao Yang admitted his initial thought was mistaken.
Du Fei then firmly stated that Qin Lie must die, regardless of his involvement in the village massacres. Meanwhile, in the woodshed where he was held, Qin Lie endured Zhuo Qian's persistent attempts to win him over, remaining indifferent until Ling Yushi appeared at the door. He immediately approached her, taking the food she offered, and handed her a wish paper, asking her to burn it. Qin Lie inquired about the situation outside.
Ling Yushi reported that Du Shao Yang seemed unconcerned about the guards, relying entirely on the Zhuo family, but the two Zhuo family members assigned to monitor Du Shao Yang had vanished without a trace, and Du Shao Yang and his subordinates were currently resting. Qin Lie instantly pieced together Du Shao Yang's cunning scheme: the Zhuo family's spies had been eliminated, and Du Shao Yang was likely gathering forces to strike Ling Borough.
He urgently instructed Ling Yushi to find Hua Yuxin, warning him not to act rashly and assuring her that he would find a way to resolve the crisis. He reminded her of his words in the snowy field, "It's useless to worry," and Ling Yushi agreed to follow his instructions. Turning to Zhuo Qian, Qin Lie told her she was a mere pawn and warned her that her men assigned to guard Du Shao Yang had already been killed.
Zhuo Qian, shocked, exclaimed, "What are you talking about?" Before she could fully react, Du Shao Yang appeared and killed her with a dart. Qin Lie emerged from the woodshed to see the bodies. Du Shao Yang confronted Qin Lie, asserting that these people were killed by him. Qin Lie acknowledged that they were killed by a Thunderbolt technique, which he would be framed for.
He recognized Du Shao Yang's larger plot, not just to arrest him for the thirty-three village massacres, but to use the supposed killing of the Ye Family members to force Ling Borough into submission to the Du Family, simultaneously weakening the Ye Family and eliminating Zhuo Qian.
Qin Lie called Du Shao Yang despicable, but Du Shao Yang merely stated that his ambition lay beyond Xingyun Pavilion, and this was merely the first step to help his father secure the master's position. He dismissed Qin Lie's moral judgment, asking if it truly mattered. At that moment, Hua Yuxin arrived, shocked by the sight of the bodies. As Qin Lie warned him, Du Fei, Du Shao Yang's subordinate, moved to attack Hua Yuxin.
Qin Lie used a lightning strike to repel Du Fei, escalating the conflict. Du Shao Yang, with his powerful abilities, quickly incapacitated Qin Lie, pinning him against a wall, and then captured Hua Yuxin. Seeing Hua Yuxin's life in imminent danger, Qin Lie, severely wounded, was forced to accept Du Shao Yang's demand to leave the borough. Du Shao Yang taunted Qin Lie, wishing for his death in the vast, desolate snowfield, his remains lost forever.
Qin Lie, distraught, agreed to leave to save Hua Yuxin's life. Du Shao Yang's subordinate questioned why he didn't kill Qin Lie outright, but Du Shao Yang explained that framing him as a fleeing criminal was more advantageous than leaving no evidence, especially since Qin Lie's severe injuries meant he wouldn't survive the snowfield anyway. He then ordered his subordinate to wait before informing the Ling Family. Ling Yushi, her heart heavy, walked among the moon festival crowd.
Ling Xuanxuan, unaware of the recent events, asked about Hua Yuxin. Ling Yushi, trying to be reassuring, said he was an adult and wouldn't get lost. Ling Xuanxuan then playfully tried to peek at Qin Lie's wish paper, but Ling Yushi, respecting Qin Lie's privacy, kept it secret, saying only the moon knew its contents. Ling Xuanxuan left to look for Hua Yuxin.
Later, as the full moon, a symbol of new hope, appeared in the sky, both the villagers and the solitary Qin Lie, struggling in the snowfield, gazed up. Villagers released lanterns bearing their wishes. Ling Yushi, tears streaming down her face, finally unfolded Qin Lie's paper and read it. Suddenly, Ling Xuanxuan's panicked screams drew everyone's attention; she had found the badly injured Hua Yuxin, confirming their worst fears about Qin Lie's perilous situation in the snowfield.
Elsewhere, Qin Lie, barely conscious, tried to consume the Yixin leaf Ling Yushi had given him, but it was snatched by a mysterious stranger. His vision blurring, he lost consciousness. In Ling Borough, Ling Yushi lay recuperating from her fire poison, which had flared up during the search for Qin Lie in the snowfield. Upon hearing Ling Xuanxuan's return, she disregarded her wounds and sat up, anxiously asking about Qin Lie.
Ling Xuanxuan sadly reported that despite their extensive search up to the Snow Cliff, they had only found another corpse, but it wasn't Qin Lie's. Ling Xuanxuan tried to reassure Ling Yushi that Qin Lie was still alive, but Ling Yushi, knowing the harsh conditions of the snowfield and Qin Lie's grave injuries, understood the slim chances of his survival.
She observed the borough was eerily quiet and worried the political situation had worsened, so she sent Ling Xuanxuan to gather more information. The next morning, Du Shao Yang confronted Ling Cheng Ye and the Ling Family elders. He used Hua Yuxin's testimony of seeing Qin Lie kill Du Fei, and the evidence of Thunderbolt technique used on the Ye Family members, to accuse Qin Lie of their murders.
He relentlessly demanded an explanation from the Ling Family, warning them that the Ye Family would seek retribution. The elders, though not believing Qin Lie was a murderer, admitted he might have been forced to act. Du Shao Yang, acknowledging that his own family had also lost a member, then proposed a solution: a marriage alliance between the Du and Ling families.
Far away, Song Tingyu, the Saintess of Profound Heaven Alliance, examined the Yixin leaf in her hand as Qin Lie lay unconscious on the ground. Her subordinate confirmed the surroundings were clear. Xie Jingxuan, the Saintess of Eight Extremes Temple, noticed Qin Lie stirring. As Qin Lie regained consciousness, he saw his Yixin leaf with Song Tingyu and tried to retrieve it, but was restrained by Liang Zhong. Song Tingyu confirmed Qin Lie's origin from Ling Borough.
Qin Lie, sensing their unknown intentions and hearing the friction between Song Tingyu and Xie Jingxuan, deduced they were hunting Soul Reaping beasts, which could only be subdued by Thunderbolt. He revealed his knowledge of their mistaken path to Snow God Valley, which was north, while they were heading west. Qin Lie agreed to lead them but demanded their help for Ling Borough's crisis.
Song Tingyu, prioritizing the hunt, ignored his request, instead using her magic to heal his wounds and returning his Yixin leaf. Outnumbered and healed, Qin Lie reluctantly agreed to guide them. As they journeyed, Qin Lie's group passed through a desolate village. He realized that Song Tingyu's expedition was responsible for the massacre of thirty-three villages, as explained by Liang Zhong as unavoidable collateral damage during their relentless Soul Reaping beast hunt, also mentioning their heavy losses.
Qin Lie, dismayed by their lack of emotion, offered to help them hunt the beast, especially since he also practiced Thunderbolt. However, he insisted they send someone back to clear Ling Borough's name with Xingyun Pavilion. Song Tingyu flatly refused, stating the beast hunt was paramount, and she could not afford to weaken her forces. Qin Lie, recognizing the ruthless pragmatism of the strong, reluctantly continued to lead.
Back in Ling Borough, Ling Cheng Ye grappled with Du Shao Yang's marriage proposal, unwilling to sacrifice his daughter. He resolved to seek an audience with Ye Yang Qiu, hoping to leverage the rivalry between the Du and Ye families. Some elders cautioned against trusting Ye Yang Qiu, who was known to be just as treacherous as the Du Family.
The news of the proposed alliance spread, and Ling Yushi, realizing the borough's dire situation and Qin Lie's uncertain fate, understood she could no longer wait. She declared she must face the challenges herself. Qin Lie and his party eventually reached Hanji Lake. Qin Lie sensed trouble and alerted them to the presence of a Gold Devouring Black Tortoise beneath the ice. He explained that these creatures, even when dormant, emitted a strong pull towards metal.
Since everyone wore iron armor, they risked being dragged into the lake. He ordered them to remove their armor, saving their lives as they crossed the treacherous ice. However, Xie Jingxuan, in a mischievous mood, deliberately threw an item belonging to Song Tingyu into the lake and then pushed Qin Lie in. Qin Lie, despite his recent injuries, struggled to rescue Song Tingyu. Once safely back on shore, Song Tingyu, without a word of thanks, merely cast a cold glance at Xie Jingxuan and ordered the group to continue their journey.
Episode 3 Recap
Ling Yushi found herself in a period of deep sorrow, constantly thinking of Qin Lie, who had been missing for a long time. With Ling Borough engulfed in crisis, she felt she had no choice but to face the adversity alone. She sought out Ling Cheng Ye and informed him of her decision to marry. Though heartbroken by his daughter's sacrifice, Ling Cheng Ye understood her maturity and the dire situation.
He acknowledged that Qin Lie's fate was unknown, and for Ling Yushi, marrying into the Du family might not be the worst outcome. He reluctantly agreed to her unwavering resolve. Earlier, Ling Yushi had met with Du Shao Yang, candidly admitting her lack of affection for him, but pressing him on his true ambitions. Du Shao Yang, in turn, confessed that his aspirations extended "higher and farther" than merely dominating Xingyun Pavilion.
Satisfied with his answer, Ling Yushi departed, leaving Du Shao Yang intrigued by her composed demeanor. She then returned to her family and announced her decision to the elders, stating her willingness to marry into Xingyun Pavilion. She emphasized that this marriage was beyond their control and was a necessary sacrifice for the peace of Ling Borough.
When Ling Cheng Ye questioned if her decision stemmed from Qin Lie's presumed death, she replied, "We are not meant for each other," and that for her, "marrying anyone now doesn't matter." Ling Cheng Ye, on behalf of the Ling family, thanked her for her sacrifice. Meanwhile, Qin Lie had stumbled into Xie Jingxuan's room, finding her undressed, and noticed she had retrieved a box that previously belonged to Song Tingyu.
He realized she had deliberately thrown it into the ice river to reclaim it, though its significance remained a mystery to him. Xie Jingxuan, unbothered by his presence, began to explain the complex power dynamics of the Chilan Continent. She revealed that Xingyun Pavilion was merely one of 57 Bluestone Class factions, while above them were 15 Black Iron Class powers.
Seven of these pledged allegiance to her family, and another seven to Song Tingyu's, leaving the Artefact Forging Sect as the only independent entity. Xie Jingxuan, a Saintess of the Eight Extreme Sanctuary, identified Song Tingyu as a Saintess of the Profound Heaven Alliance and the daughter of its chief. She then divulged that the box contained Song Tingyu's "lover," a man who was "non-existent."
She openly admitted to throwing the box into the river and then compelling Qin Lie to rescue Song Tingyu as a means to "play matchmaker." Just then, Song Tingyu burst into the room, snatching back the box and attempting to attack Xie Jingxuan with magic in a fit of rage. Qin Lie intervened, stopping her and chiding them for their incessant infighting, which he deemed counterproductive to their shared goal of killing the Soul Reaping beast.
After Song Tingyu angrily left, Xie Jingxuan hugged Qin Lie, who impatiently pushed her away, walked into the courtyard, and thought of Ling Yushi. Song Tingyu, seeing Qin Lie's solitary figure, then approached him and agreed to help Qin Lie resolve the issues in Ling Borough once the Soul Reaping Beast was dealt with, on the condition that he never mention the box again. Qin Lie, reflecting on the "uppity Saintesses," found them "nothing impressive."
Song Tingyu, in turn, made it clear that while she didn't like him, she needed his guidance and reaffirmed her promise to address Ling Borough's plight after their mission. Later, Ling Xuanxuan confronted Ling Yushi about her decision to marry. Ling Yushi explained that Du Shao Yang's ambitions extended far beyond Xingyun Pavilion, which made her more willing to marry him.
She vowed to assist him in reaching the "highest and the furthest" of his aspirations, all while asserting that Qin Lie "will always remain the same" in her heart. Ling Yushi passionately expressed her desire to use her own eyes to witness the vast world beyond the snowfields for Qin Lie, wishing for him to "be part of my life forever."
Ling Xuanxuan was left in a complex state of emotion, understanding her sister's sacrifice and her enduring affection for Qin Lie. Qin Lie led Song Tingyu and her group to Mount Zu. He feigned ignorance of the terrain, citing the snow-altered landscape. He and Mr Liang scouted ahead, discovering an abandoned but well-maintained village. Upon seeing the plaque for the "Gao Family of Mount Zu," Gao Yu emerged.
Qin Lie subtly signaled to Gao Yu, and together they subdued Mr Liang. Qin Lie instructed Gao Yu to take Mr Liang back to Ling Borough to clarify the recent village massacre, reasoning that Mr Liang’s status as a Profound Heaven Alliance member would protect him from Du Shao Yang. Qin Lie's intention was to return to the group and mislead Song Tingyu, sending them away.
However, Mr Liang, who possessed the formidable power of a Netherpassage Realm cultivator, had merely feigned capture. He quickly overpowered Gao Yu, extracting all information about Qin Lie’s plan, including the fact that Gao Yu was an orphan of the once-prominent Bluestone-level Gao family and his sister was Du Hai Tian's concubine. Mr Liang then returned with Gao Yu to Song Tingyu's group. Qin Lie’s deception was exposed.
Song Tingyu, enraged by his scheme to lead them to Frostwolf Valley instead of Snow God Valley, furiously confronted him. Qin Lie retorted by accusing her of heartlessness, prioritizing the capture of the Soul Reaping Beast over the lives of thousands in the massacred villages. Song Tingyu defended her actions, claiming they were for the greater good of the entire Chilan Continent. Intervening, Gao Yu offered to guide them directly to Snow God Valley, which they eventually reached.
As they ventured deeper into Snow God Valley, they observed numerous white, rotting bones, indicating that the Soul Reaping Beast had absorbed a great deal of spiritual energy and had grown immensely powerful. Song Tingyu speculated that the beast had not fully refined all the absorbed power, giving them a slim chance of victory. They entered a cave, where a black shadow darted from a pool.
Qin Lie shielded his eyes, and when he lowered his arm, he found himself alone. Frantically, he called out for Gao Yu, Song Tingyu, Xie Jingxuan, and Mr Liang, even experiencing a vivid illusion of Ling Yushi calling out to him. Suddenly, Song Tingyu appeared and pulled him into a hidden alcove.
From there, they observed the Soul Reaping Beast in human form, drawing power from sacrificial altars where the bodies of soldiers, and Qin Lie realized, their own missing companions like Gao Yu, lay as offerings. Song Tingyu explained that Xie Jingxuan carried the flags of the Profound Heaven Heavenly Fire Formation, and that a formation eye needed to be placed on the altar to activate it. She pushed Qin Lie to undertake this perilous task.
As Qin Lie approached, he was almost ensnared by another illusion, seeing Ling Yushi, who appeared as his wife, serving him food. Song Tingyu swiftly brought him back to reality, allowing him to successfully place the Profound Heaven Seal, the formation eye, on the altar. The Soul Reaping Beast attempted to flee, but Song Tingyu immediately activated the Heavenly Fire Formation. Qin Lie, caught within its radius, was subjected to the torrent of heavenly lightning alongside the beast.
Utilizing this extreme pressure, Qin Lie underwent a breakthrough, ascending from the Refinement Realm to the Natal Opening Realm. Song Tingyu, observing this, urged others who were at a "breakthrough bottleneck" to release their suppressed power and also ascend, warning that failure to do so would result in their demise at her hands. Xie Jingxuan acknowledged the immense risks, noting that very few thunder cultivators survive such ascensions.
Yet, Song Tingyu declared that even with heavy losses, killing the Soul Reaping Beast was paramount. As Qin Lie's eyes reddened and he pushed past his limits, Xie Jingxuan, seeing that their combined power was insufficient, decided to sacrifice herself to destroy the beast. However, the heavenly lightning spiraled out of control, causing pillars within the cave to explode. The group realized the situation was beyond salvage and fled, leaving Qin Lie alone, trapped within the collapsing formation.
After the chaotic collapse, Gao Yu returned to the cave and found an unconscious Qin Lie. As Gao Yu rushed to his side to awaken him, two pairs of shadowy eyes appeared at the cave's entrance: two frostwolves. Gao Yu became instantly wary, but Qin Lie remained unresponsive. Later, after they were transported and Qin Lie woke up, Gao Yu recounted that after Qin Lie passed out and the Saintesses fled, these frostwolves appeared.
In a semi-conscious state, he remembered dreaming of a woman, Bu Li, the Master of Frost, commanding the frostwolves to transport them back to Ling Borough. He wondered why the sovereign of the snowfield would intervene in such a way. Du Shao Yang brought Ling Yushi back to Xingyun Pavilion. There, she met Gao Huang'er, Gao Yu's sister, who was Du Shao Yang's stepmother. Initially, Gao Huang'er seemed pleased with Ling Yushi, instructing servants to attend to her.
However, once Du Shao Yang departed, Gao Huang'er's demeanor shifted dramatically. She openly expressed disdain for Ling Yushi, recalling Gao Yu's unspoken affection for her and Ling Yushi's past feelings for Qin Lie. Gao Huang'er accused Ling Yushi of being fickle for marrying Du Shao Yang, contrasting it with her own steadfast loyalty. Ling Yushi, maintaining a calm smile, simply stated that she would remain steadfast in her true feelings, just as Gao Huang'er was in hers.
News of the alliance between the Du and Ling families reached Ye Yang Qiu through his informants. He sternly inquired about Zhuo Xi's remains, only to be told by a subordinate that Du Shao Yang claimed a fire had destroyed the body. Ye Yang Qiu, a shrewd strategist, immediately saw through Du Shao Yang's ruse, recognizing it as a calculated move to mask his involvement. A deep sense of anger and injustice welled within him.
Witnessing her sister's forced marriage, Ling Xuanxuan felt a profound sense of helplessness and disappointment in her father and her own perceived weakness. Impulsively, she resolved to leave Ling Borough to pursue strength, hoping to one day rescue her sister. Hua Yuxin, her childhood friend who harbored deep feelings for her, insisted on accompanying her on her journey into the vast, snowy wilderness, promising to follow her wherever she went.
As they traveled, they reminisced about their shared childhood, with Ling Xuanxuan often exasperated but also touched by Hua Yuxin's genuine, if sometimes awkward, affection. She gently coaxed him to voice the feelings he had long held in his heart, which he did, confessing his enduring love for her. Moved to tears by his sincerity, Ling Xuanxuan, however, believed they could not undertake such a perilous journey together.
While Hua Yuxin closed his eyes, recounting his innermost thoughts as part of a game she proposed, Ling Xuanxuan silently walked away, leaving him behind in the snow. When Hua Yuxin finally opened his eyes, he found Ling Xuanxuan gone. As he stumbled forward in search of her, he joyfully discovered Qin Lie and Gao Yu.
Hua Yuxin quickly updated Qin Lie on the recent events in Ling Borough: Du Shao Yang's false accusations had plunged the town into crisis, leading Ling Yushi to sacrifice herself by marrying into Xingyun Pavilion, and driving Ling Xuanxuan to leave home to become stronger and rescue her sister. Upon hearing the news of Ling Yushi's impending marriage, Qin Lie's expression changed dramatically. Without hesitation, he mounted a frostwolf and immediately set off towards Xingyun Pavilion, determined to stop the wedding.
Episode 4 Recap
Ling Yushi stood silently, gazing at the distant snowy plains, despite it being her wedding day to Du Shao Yang. Inside Xingyun Pavilion, festive decorations adorned the hall, but her somber expression, along with her father Ling Cheng Ye's, contrasted sharply with the joyous crowd as Du Shao Yang led her down the aisle. As the ceremony neared its end, Ye Yang Qiu arrived with his men and a cup of wine.
He subtly questioned the Du family about Zhuo Qian's whereabouts, implying their involvement, and brought up Ling Yushi's past relationship with Qin Lie. Du Shao Yang quickly interjected, stating that Qin Lie, not anyone from the Ling family, was responsible for Zhuo Qian's death, and that he himself had gravely injured Qin Lie, ensuring his demise, thus avenging the Ye family.
Unconvinced, Ye Yang Qiu presented a "Break-off Wine," explaining it was brewed from the Flower of Laugh and Forget and Break Off Grass, meant to sever Ling Yushi's old affections and ensure a harmonious life with Du Shao Yang. He warned that without it, Ling Yushi might seek revenge, turning the wedding into a bloodshed. Du Shao Yang then forced Ling Yushi to drink it.
Though Ling Cheng Ye tried to intervene, Ling Yushi took the cup only to shatter it on the floor, defying Ye Yang Qiu. She challenged his claims, questioning the wine's power and asking if all human affections were subject to his control, and whether she would also suffer "break-up pain" if she were to fall in love with Du Shao Yang.
Before Ye Yang Qiu could respond, a scout burst in, announcing that Qin Lie was riding a frostwolf, coming to take the bride. Hearing Qin Lie was alive, Ling Yushi attempted to rush out but Du Shao Yang forcefully pulled her back and locked her in a room. Qin Lie appeared in the hall, his hands crackling with lightning, his power making the onlookers hesitate.
Ling Cheng Ye was ecstatic, realizing Qin Lie had not perished in the snow but had instead broken through to the Natal Opening Realm, a level capable of confronting Du Shao Yang. As Du Shao Yang tried to deflect blame onto the Ling family for Zhuo Qian's death, Qin Lie produced the Profound Heaven Badge. Declaring himself a Profound Heaven Emissary, his status instantly outranked all the Bluestone-class forces present.
Both Ye Yang Qiu and Du Jun, Du Shao Yang's father, had no choice but to kneel. Du Jun made a show of disciplining his son, but Qin Lie, seeing through the act, ordered the immediate cancellation of the marriage between the Du and Ling families, forbidding the Du family from further troubling the Lings, and stating he would not interfere in their internal power struggles.
Ye Yang Qiu, still probing, questioned Qin Lie about the massacre and Zhuo Qian’s death. Qin Lie fabricated a story, claiming a Soul Reaping Beast was responsible for both, and that he was rescued and given the Profound Heaven Badge by two Saintesses from the Profound Heaven Alliance and Eight Extremes Temple for his service in vanquishing the beast.
When Ye Yang Qiu questioned the absence of the Saintesses, Qin Lie condescendingly explained the hierarchy of powers in the Spirit Realm, implying Ye Yang Qiu, as a Bluestone-class elder, was beneath such an explanation. Qin Lie further speculated that he and the Du family might have colluded to murder Zhuo Qian and conspire for the position of Xingyun Pavilion master. This blunt retort silenced Ye Yang Qiu, who humbled himself. Qin Lie then definitively declared the Du-Ling marriage canceled.
Inside her room, Ling Yushi confronted Qin Lie, who confirmed that he had used the truth of the Ye family's murder to secure her freedom. He was eager to take her back to Ling Borough but was taken aback when she pressed him about his future plans, asking if he intended to marry her after taking her by force.
Ling Yushi then produced his old wish note, a paper containing his grand ambition to ascend to the highest and farthest reaches of the Spirit Realm, a dream that excluded her. She admitted she was willing to be his "shadow," but never expected him to return, let alone disrupt her marriage. Overwhelmed with emotion, she tearfully asked him why he had come for her if she wasn't part of his aspirations.
Qin Lie was left speechless until Hua Yuxin, interrupting them with food, chastised him for his insensitivity, explaining that Ling Yushi had bravely confessed her feelings and his response was profoundly hurtful. Hua Yuxin, drawing from his own experiences with Ling Xuanxuan, emphasized the importance of understanding a woman's emotions. Meanwhile, Gao Huang'er, Gao Yu's sister, pressed her brother to actively pursue Ling Yushi.
She had gone to great lengths to ensure the Ling family stayed for a night, creating an opportunity for him. Despite Gao Yu's loyalty to Qin Lie and his reluctance to compete for Ling Yushi or snatch his nephew's bride, Gao Huang'er argued that Qin Lie was oblivious to love and would not be hurt if Gao Yu claimed Ling Yushi.
She warned that Ling Yushi, if left to her own devices, might spend her life in unrequited love for Qin Lie, making Gao Yu's heart waver. Qin Lie, contemplating the dim moonlight in Xingyun Pavilion, was approached by Du Shao Yang, who acknowledged Qin Lie's ambition to reach higher realms. Du Shao Yang, seeking to resolve their ongoing animosity, presented an enticing offer: access to the Xingyun Pavilion's Armoury and an introduction to Master Yao, a renowned artefact forging master.
Qin Lie, eager to enhance his forging skills, accepted. Ling Cheng Ye and other Ling family members expressed concern about Qin Lie staying at Xingyun Pavilion, but Gao Yu reassured them that Qin Lie's status as a Profound Heaven Emissary would deter the Du family from any immediate hostile actions. Ling Yushi, understanding Qin Lie's lofty ambitions, decided to stay in Xingyun Pavilion herself, hoping to remain by his side.
She shared her decision with Qin Lie, admitting her fear during the coerced marriage and her relief at his arrival. While touched by her devotion, Qin Lie, still focused on his path, could only watch her leave. Qin Lie began his training in The Armoury under Master Yao, entering seclusion for three days. Ling Yushi meticulously prepared meals for him, but Gao Yu, intercepting her efforts, insisted on delivering the food himself.
For three days, Gao Yu secretly ate all of Ling Yushi's cooking, never letting it reach Qin Lie. His sister, Gao Huang'er, chastised him for eating "leftovers," urging him to seize the opportunity to win Ling Yushi. Unfazed, Gao Yu continued his deception, returning an empty bowl to Ling Yushi, claiming Qin Lie had devoured the meal and asked for more. Ling Yushi, having grown suspicious, revealed she had intentionally added seasoning Qin Lie disliked to the food.
Gao Yu's lie was exposed, and he admitted Qin Lie was too engrossed in training to eat, and that he had been secretly eating her food to make her happy. He then tried to sow discord by suggesting Qin Lie was too preoccupied to even remember her, contrasting this with her unwavering devotion. Ling Yushi firmly stated that her heart belonged only to Qin Lie.
Seeing her unyielding resolve, Gao Yu confessed his deep affection for her, realizing his efforts to "take advantage of the situation" had failed before he could even properly articulate them. Ling Yushi, sensing a lightness in his tone, believed he had moved past his infatuation and that they could remain friends. However, as Gao Yu departed, his friendly smile faded, replaced by a somber and frustrated expression, hinting that his feelings remained unresolved.
Inside The Armoury, Qin Lie was awestruck by the dedicated artefact forgers. Master Yao instructed him to begin. Closing his eyes and focusing, Qin Lie was astounded to see the intricate patterns he had dreamt of for over a decade materialize before him. Master Yao recognized these as Spiritual Arrays, the fundamental basis of artefact forging, through which spiritual energy is imbued into weapons. Qin Lie explained he had experienced these dreams nightly since he was ten.
He then inquired if Master Yao knew his grandfather, Qin Shan, who had disappeared thirteen years prior after using his forging skills to help Ling Borough repel spirit beasts. Master Yao, however, had never heard of Qin Shan, lamenting the rarity of artefact forgers on Chilan Continent. He revealed his own origins from the Artefact Forging Sect, described as the sacred hall of armourers and a repository of ultimate spirit materials, holding half of Chilan Continent's wealth.
Master Yao advised Qin Lie that if he wished to find his grandfather, he should seek answers at the Artefact Forging Sect, emphasizing that entry required self-reliance and skill. This encounter gave the previously aimless Qin Lie a clear and compelling goal.
Episode 5 Recap
After Xingyun Pavilion was struck by a massive disaster, its Old Master, the entire Ye family including Ye Yang Qiu, and two families allied with the Ye family, were all annihilated overnight by a mysterious figure. Following this tragic event, others at Xingyun Pavilion urged Qin Lie, in his capacity as a Profound Heaven Emissary, to report the incident to the Profound Heaven Alliance and request the Saintess's intervention.
However, Ling Yushi, worried about the safety of Ling Borough, wanted to return there immediately. Qin Lie and Gao Yu agreed to accompany her back to Ling Borough, unwilling to deliver the message to the Profound Heaven Alliance. Upon their return, Ling Yushi spoke with her father, Ling Cheng Ye, who confirmed he was already aware of the massacre. The Ling family elders were perplexed by the mysterious killer's identity and motives.
Ling Cheng Ye, however, felt a sense of vengeful satisfaction, believing Xingyun Pavilion deserved its fate for pressuring Ling Xuanxuan into marriage, which led to her disappearance. He vowed to hold Du Shaoyang and Xingyun Pavilion accountable if any harm befell Ling Xuanxuan. Qin Lie and Gao Yu were then tasked with alerting the entire borough to be on high alert and continue the search for Ling Xuanxuan.
Meanwhile, a distraught Hua Yuxin was found weeping, as several search parties had failed to find Ling Xuanxuan for days. He was desperate to join the search but was prevented from doing so by Xiao Ying, who was following Master Hua's orders. Hua Yuxin insisted on waiting alone at the South Gate, believing Ling Xuanxuan would be happy to see him waiting if she returned.
Far from Ling Borough, at the foot of Qisha Valley, Ling Xuanxuan, dressed in attire meant for the snowy wilderness, arrived in a small town. The townspeople stared and whispered about her unusual appearance and vacant expression. To avoid drawing more attention, she entered a tailor shop to buy new clothes. With only two spirit stone coins, she could only afford a simple, plain garment. As she left the shop, a thief snatched her bag.
She gave chase, rushing through the streets, and collided with a tall figure. Later that day, Qin Lie confessed to Gao Yu that he felt like someone was following them in Ling Borough, but he dismissed it as his own anxieties. He suggested they find Hua Yuxin, who was still waiting at the South Gate, and take him for a drink to get his mind off things.
Unbeknownst to them, a shadowy figure, the Soul Reaping Beast in human form, watched Qin Lie's departure from behind a large tree. That night, Qin Lie, Gao Yu, and Hua Yuxin gathered to drink, reminiscing about their childhood. Hua Yuxin, still distraught, was urged by Gao Yu to cherish their time together.
Hua Yuxin then emotionally thanked them for their friendship, recalling a time when he, a timid outlander, bravely defended Ling Yushi from bullies, an event that cemented their bond. Gao Yu also remembered his own deep affection for Ling Yushi, and how she had rushed to Qin Lie when he was injured.
Growing agitated, Gao Yu abruptly knocked Hua Yuxin unconscious and confronted Qin Lie about Ling Yushi, claiming that Hua Yuxin had told him about Ling Yushi's confession of feelings to Qin Lie. Qin Lie, denying any confession, evaded the topic by feigning drunkenness and asked Gao Yu to take Hua Yuxin home. Gao Yu, furious at Qin Lie's dismissal, hurled his bowl, accusing Qin Lie of having his conscience sealed by the Soul Suppressing Orb.
The next morning, Gao Yu found Qin Lie returning from his patrol, revealing that the "Hua Yuxin" they drank with last night was actually the Soul Reaping Beast. He recounted how he had discovered this deception while sending the fake Hua Yuxin home.
They rushed to find the real Hua Yuxin, who, though unharmed, was disoriented and could only vaguely recall meeting a woman in a purple cloak from the snowfield who claimed to have seen Ling Xuanxuan before he lost consciousness. Qin Lie and Gao Yu, now certain the Soul Reaping Beast was active in Ling Borough, grew wary, realizing anyone could be an imposter.
Gao Yu correctly deduced that the Soul Reaping Beast must have followed them from Xingyun Pavilion after its massacre. Fearing widespread panic if the truth were revealed, Qin Lie suggested they quietly acquire a large number of Thunder Storage Jade Plates. He planned to infuse them with his thunder energy and, when the Soul Reaping Beast finally revealed itself, unleash the jade plates to restrain or scare it away.
When Gao Yu questioned the financial aspect, Qin Lie admitted he had no money, prompting Gao Yu to leave to secure the plates. Later, Qin Lie encountered Ling Yushi acting strangely. She was overly affectionate, touching his hand and even hinting at offering herself to him. Overwhelmed, Qin Lie pushed her away.
The next day, when Qin Lie tried to speak with her, Ling Yushi publicly reprimanded him, accusing him of disdain despite her past acts of service and his rejection of her advances the previous night. Gao Yu quickly intervened, pulling Qin Lie away and suggesting that this Ling Yushi might be an illusion created by the Soul Reaping Beast. Qin Lie suddenly realized that this explained her erratic behavior.
At that moment, Song Tingyu appeared, confirming that the Soul Reaping Beast was indeed alive and had followed them to Ling Borough. She revealed that she had been covertly observing everyone and was certain that the current Ling Yushi was the transformed beast.
Song Tingyu explained that the vengeful Soul Reaping Beast, having been injured by Qin Lie in the God Trapping Cave, sought to torment him by taking the form of the woman he loved, intending to make him unknowingly destroy his beloved. Song Tingyu advocated for killing the impostor. Qin Lie fiercely objected, demanding irrefutable proof and expressing his concern for the real Ling Yushi's fate.
They ultimately agreed that Qin Lie must pretend to be deceived by the beast's illusion and confess his love to it, hoping it would then reveal its true form, which would also safeguard the real Ling Yushi if she was still alive. That night, Qin Lie went to Ling Yushi's room, steeling himself against the possibility that she might be the real one.
He embraced her, pouring out his heart, confessing his lifelong affection for her, explaining his fears about his uncertain future as a cultivator with powerful enemies, and his concern that he might leave Ling Borough or die, leaving her to wait indefinitely.
Despite these worries, he declared his willingness to abandon his dream of becoming the Supreme Lord for a simple life with her, or to dedicate all his achievements to her if she joined him on his path to supremacy. He then asked her to marry him. As Ling Yushi hugged him, Qin Lie looked into a mirror and saw the human form of the Soul Reaping Beast. Afterward, Qin Lie returned to Song Tingyu and Gao Yu, his face grim.
He confirmed that the Ling Yushi he had just spoken with was indeed the Soul Reaping Beast. Consumed by anger at the thought that the real Ling Yushi might have been consumed by the beast, both Qin Lie and Gao Yu yearned to slay it. However, Song Tingyu advised a different approach: Qin Lie was to formally propose marriage to the Ling family the next morning, setting a trap to force the Soul Reaping Beast to reveal its original form.
The following morning, despite agreeing to Song Tingyu's plan, Qin Lie secretly instructed Gao Yu to seek out the Master of Frost Buli. He harbored suspicions about Song Tingyu's complex nature, believing the benevolent Master of Frost, who had previously sent frostwolves to their aid, would be a more reliable ally if their plan went awry. Gao Yu, though worried about the dangers and the time it would take, agreed to hurry to the snowfield.
As he ventured deep into the snowy expanse, the illusory form of Ling Yushi materialized before him. She confessed her love for him, claiming that Qin Lie's proposal to her father had made her realize her true feelings were for Gao Yu. Though he recognized the illusion, Gao Yu was captivated by her appearance and, overcome with emotion, embraced her. As Gao Yu succumbed to the illusion, the Soul Reaping Beast observed him.
It reflected on how it had spared the Du family during the Xingyun Pavilion massacre, noting Gao Yu's outwardly genial but inwardly cunning nature. Recognizing his latent "evil side," the Soul Reaping Beast decided that Gao Yu was an individual the Dark Nether Race had long sought. It envisioned him becoming an instrument for the Dark Nether Race, utilizing the Du family for their own purposes. With this thought, it plunged Gao Yu into a deep, dreamless sleep.
Episode 6 Recap
The wedding ceremony between Qin Lie and Ling Yushi commenced, filling the atmosphere with joy and smiles. Before the rites began, Song Tingyu, who was present, had set a formation on the bridal pedestal, instructing Qin Lie to throw the Profound Heaven Seal to activate it.
She claimed this formation was designed only to harm the Soul Reaping Beast, and that by eliminating his "wife's murderer" at the wedding, Qin Lie would bring peace to the soul of the fallen Ling Yushi. As the ceremony progressed with the traditional bows, Qin Lie, at the opportune moment, launched the Profound Heaven Seal. The formation rapidly took effect, and Qin Lie stood up to reveal the true identity of the bride. However, the situation twisted unexpectedly.
Qin Lie declared, "She's not Yu Shi. She's a Soul Reaping Beast." To everyone's astonishment, it was revealed that the bride was actually the real Ling Yushi. The bride, Ling Yushi, then pointed to Song Tingyu and exclaimed, "Not me. She's the Soul Reaping Beast." It was then unveiled that the Song Tingyu who had meticulously planned the formation was, in fact, the Soul Reaping Beast in disguise.
The beast proudly confessed to its elaborate deception, explaining that it had "merely disguised as Ling Yu Shi and played with you," and then "disguised as Song Ting Yu to confuse you." It confirmed that Qin Lie's earlier heartfelt confession was indeed made to the real Ling Yushi, but its ultimate desire was to see Qin Lie "kill your beloved and everyone at the Ling Borough!"
With its true identity exposed, the Soul Reaping Beast, still in Song Tingyu's form, activated the Ghost Fire Skull Formation, a lethal array Qin Lie had unwittingly helped set, intending to massacre everyone in Ling Borough. Qin Lie tried desperately to resist the attack, but the villagers were already suffering injuries. Ling Cheng Ye shielded Ling Yushi, while Qin Lie hesitated to use his full thunder power, fearing it would summon heavenly thunder and harm the innocent.
Just as the Soul Reaping Beast gloated over its success, the real Song Tingyu arrived with her forces at Ling Borough to capture it. Having been previously wounded in the Snow God Valley, the Soul Reaping Beast's spiritual energy was diminished, making its power equal to Song Tingyu’s. As they battled, Song Tingyu quickly surrounded Ling Borough with a new formation. Du Shao Yang, following Song Tingyu's orders, also enclosed the town, but the Ling Borough suffered heavy casualties.
Qin Lie realized that Song Tingyu was willing to sacrifice all the villagers to kill the Soul Reaping Beast, and that she was likely responsible for the massacres in thirty-three other villages.
Seeing through Du Shao Yang's ambition for power, Qin Lie negotiated with him, proposing a deceptive plan: since the Soul Reaping Beast hated both Qin Lie and Song Tingyu and enjoyed seeing them suffer, a staged conflict between the two would surely force the beast to reveal its true form. Qin Lie offered Du Shao Yang all the credit for the capture, an offer that swayed Du Shao Yang.
During the intense fight, Song Tingyu fell into an illusion created by the Soul Reaping Beast, where she saw Gong Mulie, the man she had secretly loved. The beast, now disguised as Xie Jingxuan, mocked Song Tingyu's unrequited love. Just as Gong Mulie turned, Qin Lie intervened, pulling Song Tingyu out of the illusion. Qin Lie, pretending to be enraged, then accused Song Tingyu of being responsible for the deaths of Ling family members and others, blaming her for everything.
They then engaged in a feigned combat, a ploy to lure the Soul Reaping Beast. Observing their staged battle, the Soul Reaping Beast foolishly revealed itself, gloating at the sight. Du Shao Yang, watching from a distance, finally discerned the beast's true form, and the combined forces pursued it to the Silent Abyss.
Meanwhile, Qin Lie, having infused his Thunder Storage Jade Plate with more heavenly thunder power, was followed by Ling Yushi, who sensed the surge of thunder energy and knew of his location. Song Tingyu and her subordinates descended into the Silent Abyss. Within the abyss, a unique Soul Dispersing Barrier nullified the Soul Reaping Beast's illusion abilities. Song Tingyu and Liang Zhong attempted to trap the beast with an Eight Extreme Formation.
Unexpectedly, the Soul Reaping Beast cast the Ghost Fire Skull Formation upon itself, not only rendering it immune to their attacks but also causing it to level up. As they struggled to contend with the newly empowered beast, Qin Lie appeared, holding the Thunder Storage Jade Plate. He commanded Liang Zhong to escort Song Tingyu to safety, then unleashed devastating heavenly thunder to subdue the Soul Reaping Beast. The potent thunder struck both Qin Lie and the beast.
The Soul Reaping Beast was utterly annihilated, its essence dispersed, while Qin Lie was severely injured and coughed blood. As more thunder threatened to strike Qin Lie, Hua Yuxin suddenly leaped into the abyss, shielding Qin Lie, and was instantly consumed by the colossal lightning. Simultaneously, under the influence of the heavenly thunder, Ling Yushi experienced vivid memories from ten thousand years ago.
She saw herself as Qiao Chun, the Mother of Earth, and Qin Lie as Gong Mulie, the Son of the God of War, bound by celestial rules that forbade their love. Choosing reincarnation over eternal separation, they had been reborn as Ling Yushi and Qin Lie to find each other once more. In the aftermath, Song Tingyu searched the abyss but found no trace of Qin Lie's body, concluding he had perished with the Soul Reaping Beast.
To suppress any information about her involvement in the capture and the subsequent casualties, Song Tingyu ordered Du Shao Yang to eliminate the remaining residents of Ling Borough. However, her plans were interrupted when Gao Yu arrived, halting Du Shao Yang's actions by invoking the name of the Master of Frost. Song Tingyu, aware that the Master of Frost had previously aided Qin Lie and Gao Yu, hesitated to proceed. She then instructed Pu Jiao to detain Du Shao Yang.
Liang Zhong further advised Song Tingyu against challenging the Master of Frost, reminding her that as a seventh-tier spirit beast, her power rivaled the human race's peak Broken Realm cultivators. This cautionary advice led Song Tingyu to temper her ambitions. Song Tingyu then confronted Ling Yushi, informing her of Qin Lie's presumed demise with the Soul Reaping Beast. Despite her shock, Ling Yushi maintained her composure, listening as Song Tingyu discussed Du Shao Yang's fate.
Ling Yushi, unwilling to entangle Ling Borough in further conflicts with Xingyun Pavilion, refused to take action against Du Shao Yang. Song Tingyu, having hoped to use this as an opportunity to reignite animosity between the two factions, was thwarted by Ling Yushi's shrewdness. Undeterred, Song Tingyu secretly dispatched Pu Jiao to Xingyun Pavilion to orchestrate new disputes.
She also emphasized the importance of preventing any news of Qin Lie's role in defeating the Soul Reaping Beast from reaching beyond the far north, as the death of Xie Jingxuan had already shifted continental power towards the Profound Heaven Alliance. Meanwhile, Du Hai Tian, under pressure from Pu Jiao, was forced to comply with his commands, including a superficial gesture of goodwill by sending Du Shao Yang with gifts to Ling Borough.
Back in the Silent Abyss, Gao Yu returned to mourn his lost comrades. He found only scorched earth, a grim testament to the thunder's power, and no remains of Qin Lie or Hua Yuxin. Overwhelmed by regret for his perceived inadequacy and lateness, Gao Yu was suddenly confronted by the nearly dissipated Soul Reaping Beast. The beast, on the verge of fading completely, offered Gao Yu its sacred ring, forged from the lingering consciousness of the previous Evil God.
The beast recounted the Evil God's history as a protector of the Realm of Ruined Souls who fell in battle against the gods ten thousand years ago, and how its scattered remnants sought a new host. Tempting Gao Yu with promises of ultimate power to protect those he cherished and exact revenge, the beast urged him to accept the ring. Gao Yu, longing for strength, succumbed to the temptation, proclaiming his desire for power.
The Soul Reaping Beast, seeing Gao Yu perfectly don the sacred ring, expressed satisfaction, declaring him the ideal guardian for the Evil Race's spirits. Filled with newfound resolve, Gao Yu vowed revenge against all who had disregarded the lives of his brothers and the Ling family.
Episode 7 Recap
Ling Yushi spent her days longing for Qin Lie, and even with Gao Yu's companionship, she could not let him go. Gao Yu sincerely confessed his feelings to her, but Ling Yushi remained steadfast in her belief that Qin Lie was not dead and could not forget his confession to her. Gao Yu then revealed that every word Qin Lie spoke that night was actually his own heartfelt confession, written by Gao Yu himself.
Ling Yushi was taken aback by this truth. Gao Yu knew, however, that even this revelation would not make Ling Yushi fall in love with him. He had once hoped to replace Qin Lie, but he accepted that she would never give him that chance. Ling Yushi affirmed her intention to wait for Qin Lie, no matter how long it took, and told Gao Yu to stop trying to pursue her.
Gao Yu, resigned, urged her to eat, stating he would wait for his buddy. Meanwhile, Du Shaoyang harbored deep resentment for being used as a pawn by Song Tingyu to avoid offending the Master of Gelid. He also hated Qin Lie for consistently surpassing him. Filled with a desire for revenge, he wanted to challenge Qin Lie, but with Qin Lie now missing, Du Shaoyang was left to wallow in self-pity, drinking to drown his sorrows.
As he drank, he noticed a formidable woman in blue who garnered the admiration of men, yet she harshly criticized one man for his weakness. Du Shaoyang, feeling as though her every word mocked him, drunkenly followed her. When the woman noticed him, Du Shaoyang, in a fit of pique, retaliated for the man she had just struck, slapping her himself. A scuffle ensued, and Du Shaoyang found his face covered in snow.
He quickly realized he had struck a woman and, overwhelmed with shame, fled. The woman, revealing herself to be Xie Jingxuan, who had miraculously survived, found it remarkable that in decades, someone had finally dared to lay a hand on her. Across the vast snowy plains, Ling Xuanxuan returned to Ling Borough, accompanied by Li Zhong Zheng and Lu Li, disciples of Qisha Valley.
Ling Xuanxuan had become a student of Qisha Valley, and upon hearing of the tragedy that befell Ling Borough, her master allowed her to return and visit. Upon seeing Ling Yushi, Li Zhong Zheng immediately detected the Fire Poison within her. He offered to take Ling Yushi back to Qisha Valley to cultivate the Water Spirit Art, which could aid in her recovery.
He explained that such a strange and potent poison, like a sealed spiritual power, was unheard of in the Chilan Continent and usually only found in the central Golden Land. He was also impressed by Ling Yushi's extraordinary ability to cultivate difficult spiritual herbs in such a barren land. Since the elder who once suppressed Ling Yushi's Fire Poison was missing, and without timely medical attention, Ling Yushi's life was at risk.
Ling Xuanxuan eagerly encouraged her sister to go, highlighting the beauty of Qisha Valley. Ling Yushi hesitated, fearing Qin Lie would return to find her gone, but her father, Ling Chengye, implored her to prioritize herself and live for her own sake, not for others. Guided by her father's words, Ling Yushi gradually let go of her attachment and decided to go to Qisha Valley.
Ling Xuanxuan then went to Hua Yuxin's father's home, hoping to inquire about Hua Yuxin's whereabouts and seek his forgiveness, but he refused to open his door. Ling Xuanxuan knelt there day and night, with Ling Yushi joining her, as both believed that Qin Lie and Hua Yuxin were still alive. Just then, a commotion erupted outside. Qin Lie had returned to Ling Borough alone.
Filled with remorse, Qin Lie knelt before Ling Chengye, admitting that he had been tricked by the Soul Reaping Beast, causing countless deaths and injuries in Ling Borough. Ling Chengye, acknowledging Qin Lie's heroic act in defeating the Soul Reaping Beast, forgave him. However, when Ling Xuanxuan asked about Hua Yuxin, Qin Lie silently lowered his head.
He recounted that during the thunder strike in Silent Abyss, Hua Yuxin had shielded him, taking the brunt of the lightning, before being swept away. Qin Lie vaguely remembered an old man, not his grandfather, being present after the event. Ling Chengye urged Qin Lie to rest and assured him that Ling Borough would rely on him. Qin Lie sought out Ling Yushi again, intending to apologize for their "arranged marriage."
Before he could finish, Ling Yushi cut him off, assuring him that she forgave him and understood the marriage was a strategic move and not to be taken seriously. She then revealed her decision to go to Qisha Valley for cultivation to treat her Fire Poison. Qin Lie expressed his support, relieved that her condition might be cured. They agreed to grow stronger together to protect Ling Borough.
Qin Lie even offered to teach her the Qin family's Thunder Incantation, playfully suggesting he could then be her master and shed the feeling of indebtedness for her cooking. However, when Ling Yushi mentioned Hua Yuxin's ability to handle Ling Xuanxuan's cooking, both Qin Lie and Ling Yushi fell into a tacit silence, unsure what to say about him.
Qin Lie then found Hua Yuxin's father, who, in a drunken state, gripped Qin Lie's hand and instructed him to pay close attention to the spiritual arrays that appear in his dreams, to draw them, and to practice them daily, as it would be beneficial for his "violent tendencies." Sensing the unusual nature of these words, Qin Lie pressed him, asking who had instructed him to say such things.
Hua Yuxin's father mumbled Qin Shan's name, then drifted back into a deep sleep, clarifying it was a message from a dream. Later, Du Shaoyang returned to Ling Borough under the orders of the Profound Heaven Emissary, bearing gifts to reconcile with the Ling family. However, the villagers, still grieving and enraged, met him with insults and hostility. Hua Yuxin's father, overwhelmed by sorrow and fury, splashed a bucket of dung on Du Shaoyang.
Du Shaoyang and his retinue fled, but the villagers soon surrounded them again, accusing Du Shaoyang of murder. It was discovered that Hua Yuxin's father's skull had been crushed by the wooden bucket. Du Shaoyang vehemently denied the accusation, arguing that he had no reason to use such a "filthy pail" and that many had seen him leaving the south gate, proving he had no time to commit the crime.
Lu Li, enraged, tried to attack Du Shaoyang, but Li Zhong Zheng intervened. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Li Zhong Zheng suggested that Pu Jiao, the Profound Heaven Emissary of the Palace of Hell, who was currently at Xingyun Pavilion, be brought in to arbitrate the matter.
Ling Yushi, despite Qin Lie's concerns about her safety and Gao Yu being caught in the middle due to his connection to Xingyun Pavilion, insisted on going to Xingyun Pavilion, stating that no one could stop her and that her presence would show Ling Borough had strong backing from the Master of Gelid. Qin Lie, realizing her resolve, conceded, believing that her presence might offer new perspectives and insights. Gao Yu also insisted on joining them, emphasizing his loyalty to Ling Borough despite his affiliation with Xingyun Pavilion.
Episode 8 Recap
Sword Holder Li Mu braved the raging blizzard in the Frost Land to seek an audience with the Master of Frost. Upon encountering snowwolves, Li Mu respectfully greeted the Master, mentioning his long-standing connection with the Snowwolf clan and the Master of Frost. However, the snowwolves bared their fangs and claws, indicating the Master's reluctance to meet. When two Frostwolf Guards attacked him, Li Mu drew his blade in defense.
He temporarily incapacitated them with his Sword of Wine, rendering them merely drunk, not dead. The Master of Frost, Bu Li, then appeared, using ice swords in a fierce attack, trying to make Li Mu retreat. However, Li Mu insisted that he had no choice but to respond to such a furious welcome, asking if she truly intended to keep or trap him there for a thousand years. Bu Li coldly asked who was the cruel one between them.
Meanwhile, Qin Lie and his companions were en route to Xingyun Pavilion when they were caught in the intense battle between Li Mu and Bu Li. Uncontrolled ice swords flew towards them. As Qin Lie was about to be injured, Ling Yushi instinctively manifested her spiritual power. Vines erupted from the vast snowfield, forming a protective barrier around everyone. Qin Lie and Du Shaoyang tumbled into a crevice.
To prevent falling into the abyss, Qin Lie desperately held onto the vines while gripping Du Shaoyang's hand. After their fight, Bu Li transformed into her human form and met Li Mu. They had known each other on the snowfield in their youth. Li Mu had once left Bu Li to break through his cultivation bottleneck, and now returned to find her.
He urged her to leave the icy wilderness with him, but Bu Li merely looked at him coldly, stating she had a condition. Li Mu recounted their past, how they met when she was an ordinary frostwolf, how he kept her by his side, and how he had to leave to advance his cultivation, almost bathing in the Central Golden Holy Light.
He noted their shared growth but pointed out her current cultivation stagnation due to her isolated existence, urging her to join him to truly understand humanity. Back at Xingyun Pavilion, Pu Jiao presided over the hearing regarding the murder in Ling Borough, with Li Zhong Zheng assisting. Pu Jiao, acting on Song Tingyu's instructions, aimed to reconcile the Ling and Du families, urging Qin Lie and Du Shaoyang to avoid further conflict.
Du Shaoyang denied killing Blacksmith Hua, leading to a heated exchange with Qin Lie. Li Zhong Zheng intervened, reminding Qin Lie that Du Shaoyang was the Young Master of Xingyun Pavilion, while acknowledging Qin Lie as a hero for killing the Soul Reaping Beast. Du Shaoyang proposed that Xingyun Pavilion or the Palace of Hell investigate the crime scene and body, as Li Zhong Zheng might be prejudiced since he came with Ling Borough residents.
Pu Jiao agreed, emphasizing mutual respect between them until the case was resolved. Later, Qin Lie reflected on Hua Yuxin, an outlander, who managed to enter the Silent Abyss to shield him from heavenly thunder, and how he vaguely saw Blacksmith Hua rescuing him while he was unconscious. He questioned his identity, powerful memories, why the Master of Frost had saved him, and his ability to repeatedly surpass his limits, believing only his grandfather could provide answers.
Ling Yushi reassured him, mentioning his grandfather's past heroics in repelling spirit tides and leaving peculiar array formations on Herb Mountain, as well as the eight pillars that channeled thunder to kill the Soul Reaping Beast, concluding that his grandfather was no ordinary person and might be deliberately concealing his whereabouts. Qin Lie, however, expressed his urgency to act and his intention to study artifact forging to infiltrate the Artefact Forging Sect and gather information about his grandfather.
Meanwhile, Du Shaoyang, still frustrated, went to a wine house, where he again encountered Xie Jingxuan, who introduced herself as Tang Siqi. She confessed her admiration for him, stating she wished for a proper relationship. Du Shaoyang, feeling bored, dismissed his subordinate and followed her to a room. Tang Siqi (Xie Jingxuan) danced and effortlessly exposed Du Shaoyang's inner struggles. Intrigued, Du Shaoyang insisted on seeing her true face.
She eventually removed her veil, revealing herself to be the blue-clad woman who had slapped him days prior. Despite realizing he had been tricked, Du Shaoyang enjoyed her company throughout the night, returning to Xingyun Pavilion with a contented smile. On his way back, Qin Lie suddenly appeared, intending to unleash his powers to avenge Blacksmith Hua. However, Du Shaoyang's guards arrived, forcing Qin Lie to abandon his plan.
This entire encounter was witnessed by one of Pu Jiao's subordinates, who promptly reported back, much to Pu Jiao's delight. Later, Qin Lie and Du Shaoyang met privately by the Luminous Pillars, discussing the day's events in the hall. They confirmed their shared suspicion that someone was orchestrating a conflict between their families, and that Blacksmith Hua's killer was not Du Shaoyang.
They admitted to staging a show to mislead Pu Jiao, aiming for him to unwittingly convey their message to Song Tingyu. Qin Lie suspected Song Tingyu was behind the scheme, wanting to eliminate both Ling Borough and Xingyun Pavilion while preserving her reputation. They acknowledged their inability to defeat Song Tingyu directly or seek justice from the Profound Heaven Alliance on Lofty Cliff.
Despite the challenges, they resolved not to passively accept their fate and decided to unite, alongside Gao Yu and Ling Yushi, to resist Song Tingyu and make her aware they were not easy targets. Qin Lie noticed Ling Yushi's ill health over the past few days, her face sometimes pale, sometimes flushed. He inquired if her Fire Poison was acting up, but she brushed off his concerns, attributing her fatigue to recent events.
She then suggested he visit the Spiritual Herb Street in Icestone City to find some medicinal herbs, as even the low-grade ones there were superior to those in Ling Borough. Qin Lie, excited by the idea, eagerly left to prepare, while Ling Yushi watched him go with a mix of thoughts. As Du Shaoyang was returning to his room, Liang Zhong intercepted him, revealing that Song Tingyu had overheard his and Qin Lie's "rebellion" plans.
Song Tingyu then appeared, disclosing the secret of the Luminous Pillars, referring to an ancestral teaching about the star and cloud being close, and light breaking sincere friendships. She explained that the pillars, built by powerful figures from the Profound Heaven Alliance three centuries ago, contained a potent energy intended to combat the Dark Nether Race if they invaded. Activating this power required the combined forces of Thunder and Starlight, guided by the Luminous Bead.
This power could instantly elevate a cultivator to the Netherpassage Realm, making them second only to her. Du Shaoyang's eyes gleamed with greed at the prospect. Song Tingyu stated her intention to eliminate Qin Lie while cultivating Du Shaoyang. She also discussed the upcoming 30-year Nether War, jointly supervised by the Profound Heaven Alliance and the Eight Extremes Temple. With Saintess Xie Jingxuan dead, the responsibility fell to Song Tingyu, who proposed Du Shaoyang assist her.
Du Shaoyang found himself torn between betraying Qin Lie and allying with Song Tingyu for immense benefits. Liang Zhong later questioned Song Tingyu about her true motives, specifically if she intended to sacrifice the people of Icestone City to conceal the truth about the Soul Reaping Beast.
Song Tingyu confessed her predicament: the Master of Eight Extremes Temple would be furious over Xie Jingxuan's death, and her own father, the Profound Heaven Alliance Master, would not forgive her for failing to kill the Soul Reaping Beast herself. Trapped, she saw no other choice but to eliminate everyone to bury the secret. Meanwhile, Li Mu and Bu Li, now in human form, had settled in the city.
Li Mu had found a small shop and named it "Li Ji," while Bu Li, despite her extraordinary beauty, wore simple clothes to blend in, as Li Mu explained that a true hermit hides in the busiest places to avoid drawing attention. The following day, Ling Yushi confronted Pu Jiao, directly accusing him of killing Blacksmith Hua and attempting to instigate conflict between the Ling and Du families. Pu Jiao adamantly denied the accusations, demanding proof.
Ling Yushi stated she did not have the evidence yet but warned him to cease his actions, vowing to find proof and present it to the Master of Xingyun Pavilion. She pointed out that Qin Lie, instead of trusting her, believed the Palace of Hell would uncover the truth, a notion Pu Jiao found laughable. Ling Yushi retorted that he was the ridiculous one, promising to find the evidence before exposing him.
Episode 9 Recap
In the bustling market, Qin Lie wandered, holding spiritual array drawings he had sketched from memory, seeking someone who could identify them. He was repeatedly turned away until he stumbled upon Li Mu's small shop, where Li Mu initially dismissed his drawings as mere "leg pads for my table." However, Bu Li subtly prompted Li Mu to assist Qin Lie. Li Mu then requested all of Qin Lie's spiritual array boards, laying them out.
Qin Lie explained that these were fragments of larger patterns he saw in dreams, representing less than one percent of the original. Li Mu advised him not to force the pursuit, telling him to continue dreaming and return when he could recall the complete patterns. After Qin Lie left, Bu Li questioned Li Mu's true intentions for opening his shop in this location, suggesting it was for Qin Lie.
She noted Qin Lie's "plateau redness" and his cultivation was "only Natal Opening Realm," suggesting Li Mu's admiration was surprising given this. Li Mu, however, claimed it was merely a favor to her. Later, Ling Yushi met with Qin Lie and Gao Yu to discuss her plan to expose Pu Jiao. She had already informed Pu Jiao that she would marry Du Shaoyang, believing this would provoke him to personally attempt to kill her.
Qin Lie and Gao Yu expressed concern for her safety. Du Shaoyang, present for the discussion, asked if her proposal was a genuine commitment or merely a strategic move, to which Ling Yushi confirmed it was a calculated trap. Together, Ling Yushi and Du Shaoyang then approached Du Haitien. Du Haitien inquired about Ling Yushi's prior accusations against Du Shaoyang regarding Blacksmith Hua’s murder.
Ling Yushi explained her past impulsiveness and stated her current belief in Du Shaoyang's innocence, proposing the marriage to mend the rift between their families. Du Shaoyang elaborated, suggesting a quick wedding followed by a visit to Chief Ling in Ling Borough to clarify misunderstandings. Du Haitien asked if Qin Lie was aware, fearing he might "ruin the wedding again." Ling Yushi assured him she would inform Qin Lie. Pleased, Du Haitien immediately approved the marriage and ordered city-wide celebrations.
Hearing the news, Pu Jiao was astonished by Ling Yushi's sudden change of heart from Qin Lie to Du Shaoyang. He declared his intention to turn the wedding into a funeral. Meanwhile, Du Shaoyang met Xie Jingxuan, who continued to refer to herself as Tang Siqi. She congratulated him on his impending marriage, then subtly questioned his feelings for Ling Yushi, noting the lack of emotion in his eyes.
She scorned his pursuit of "power and status," advocating instead for "endless love, boundless love" as the true source of strength that eradicates fear. Xie Jingxuan offered to sabotage the wedding without implicating him if he wished to avoid it. Du Shaoyang, however, rejected her offer, warning her not to interfere. Xie Jingxuan stated that she would depart forever if he went through with the marriage, as "married man. . . are as good as dead" to her.
She would wait at the tavern until the wedding day, and if he had a change of heart, he should find her there; otherwise, they would never meet again. Du Shaoyang later met with Song Tingyu, who immediately detected Xie Jingxuan's scent on him. Du Shaoyang dismissed the possibility of Xie Jingxuan's return.
He admitted that his marriage to Ling Yushi was a ruse and that he had revealed Pu Jiao's plan against Qin Lie to Qin Lie's group to gain their trust. On the eve of the wedding, Ling Yushi gazed at her wedding dress, concerned about Qin Lie's reaction to their staged marriage. At the same time, Qin Lie stormed into Xingyun Pavilion, demanding Ling Yushi's release and accusing Du Shaoyang of coercion. Du Haitien intervened.
One of Du Haitien's wives (Gao Huang'er) insulted Ling Yushi, claiming she was promiscuous with Qin Lie and Gao Yu. Qin Lie retaliated with a threat. Li Zhongzheng arrived, suggesting they spare Qin Lie for Ling Yushi's sake. Du Haitien agreed, instructing Guo Ying and Guo Hao to take Qin Lie away to "cool off" until after the wedding. As Qin Lie was being led away, in his dazed state, he caught a glimpse of Liang Zhong's face.
Li Zhongzheng and Pu Jiao exchanged pleasantries, with Li Zhongzheng noting Pu Jiao's smug expression as Pu Jiao then proceeded to the dungeon to interrogate Qin Lie. In her room, Ling Yushi showed Gao Yu her wedding dress, urging him to remain hidden in anticipation of Pu Jiao's attack. Gao Yu, seeing the dress, was overcome with emotion and asked if she would ever wear it for him.
He confessed his desire to embrace her, then quickly dismissed it as a joke to lighten her spirits. Tragedy struck when Gao Huang'er, Du Haitien's wife and Gao Yu's sister, was discovered dead. Du Haitien immediately accused Qin Lie of the murder. Qin Lie vehemently denied it, claiming he was framed. An enraged Du Haitien attacked Qin Lie. Ling Yushi attempted to defend Qin Lie, asserting his innocence, but her pleas were ignored.
Pu Jiao intervened, suggesting that Qin Lie be interrogated to uncover the truth rather than executed on the spot, though his true intention was to further incite conflict between the two families. He insisted on a thorough investigation of the timing and method of the murder before any judgment could be passed. Qin Lie was then dragged to jail. As he was led away, Qin Lie urged Gao Yu to "protect Yu Shi!"
Gao Yu, devastated by his sister's death, warned Ling Yushi that if Qin Lie were found guilty, he would personally kill her. He then led Ling Yushi away. Ling Yushi, realizing they had been "tricked" and their plan was "seen through long ago," deduced that Song Tingyu, not Pu Jiao, was the mastermind, having turned their own strategy against them. Desperate to save Qin Lie, Ling Yushi tried to rush to him.
Gao Yu stopped her, knocking her unconscious, his actions driven by a surge of dark power from his evil ring. Overcome by grief and the ring's influence, Gao Yu tearfully embraced the unconscious Ling Yushi, whispering that he could finally hold her. Du Shaoyang confronted Song Tingyu, expressing his anger over her killing his "stepmother," Gao Huang'er. Song Tingyu justified her actions, explaining that killing Gao Huang'er was strategically easier than Ling Yushi.
She questioned Du Shaoyang's intense reaction, implying he lacked "mother-son affection" for Gao Huang'er. She then presented Du Shaoyang with the Luminous Bead, promising it would allow him to "ascend to a new realm instantly." Du Shaoyang accepted the bead, his complaints ceasing. In the dungeon, Qin Lie learned from Pu Jiao that Du Shaoyang had betrayed them to Song Tingyu. Pu Jiao mocked Qin Lie's foolish trust.
Enraged by this revelation, heavenly thunder entered Qin Lie's body, his thunder energy surged uncontrollably, and he killed Pu Jiao, bursting free from his cell. Qin Lie found Du Shaoyang at the Luminous Pillar and confronted him about his betrayal and the sacrifice of his stepmother for personal gain. Du Shaoyang defended his actions, framing them as a duty to Song Tingyu and a path to profit, asserting that "In this journey, someone has to be sacrificed."
They engaged in a fierce battle, their clashing powers creating immense energy fluctuations. Song Tingyu, along with Liang Zhong, observed from a distance. She revealed the Luminous Pillar was an ancient weapon, built by powerful figures to unleash destructive power upon Icestone City if the Dark Nether Race invaded, requiring the combined forces of "thunder and starlight" spiritual energies and the "Luminous Bead."
Song Tingyu confessed that she had intentionally used the "presumptuous Pu Jiao" to set up a visible trap, knowing Qin Lie and Du Shaoyang would uncover it. She banked on Qin Lie's "kindness" and Du Shaoyang's "ruthlessness" to lead them into an inevitable conflict, which, fueled by the Luminous Bead and Qin Lie's thunder energy, would obliterate Icestone City and all its inhabitants.
This destruction, she believed, would conceal the secret that the Soul Reaping Beast had not died by her hand. As the Luminous Pillar's energy neared eruption, Qin Lie experienced excruciating head pain and a flood of memories. Just as Song Tingyu anticipated her plan's success, a figure clad in golden armor, Gong Mulie, appeared, his back to Song Tingyu. He intervened, single-handedly stabilizing the Luminous Pillar and averting the city's destruction.
After the intense battle, Qin Lie and Du Shaoyang regained consciousness. Song Tingyu approached them, disingenuously explaining that she had intended for them to eliminate each other because they were "too difficult to control," but she couldn't simply kill them without cause. She claimed she had given Du Shaoyang the Luminous Bead only because she feared Qin Lie might lose. She further asserted that their battle had inadvertently triggered the Luminous Pillar's destructive power, which she then "stopped."
(This was a lie, as Gong Mulie had intervened). She acknowledged their surprising skipping a level breakthrough in cultivation, with Qin Lie reaching the "pinnacle of the Natal Opening Realm" and Du Shaoyang attaining the "early level of the Manifestation Realm," recognizing their extraordinary talent.
Deciding to cultivate rather than kill them, she blamed Pu Jiao for Blacksmith Hua's death and Gao Huang'er's murder, stating that Pu Jiao had "misunderstood" her orders to kill "some warriors" and acted to gain "credit." Both Qin Lie and Du Shaoyang expressed their disbelief at her explanation. Song Tingyu then gravely announced that the Horned Demon Tribe had launched an unexpected early invasion, restarting the "battle with the netherworld" before its scheduled 30-year cycle.
She declared her intention to lead the forces at the Purple Mist Sea and invited them to join, mentioning that even Master Mo Hai of the Artefact Forging Sect would be there leading a team. Hearing the name "Master Mo Hai," Qin Lie agreed to join, seeing it as an opportunity to pave his way into the Artefact Forging Sect. He stipulated one condition: an arranged meeting with Master Mo Hai. Song Tingyu agreed, adding that their ability to gain Master Mo Hai's favor would depend on their own efforts.
Episode 10 Recap
In the dungeon, Pu Jiao was executed by Liang Zhong. Afterward, at Xingyun Pavilion, Qin Lie and Du Shaoyang, under Song Tingyu's direction, presented a fabricated story to others. They claimed Pu Jiao, out of jealousy, instigated a fight between them, accidentally triggering the Luminous Pillar's power and almost destroying Icestone City, until Song Tingyu intervened.
Song Tingyu then announced her immediate departure for Purple Mist Sea to confront the Horned Demon Race, commanding Qin Lie and Du Shaoyang to accompany her, while Du Haitan was to follow after attending to urgent matters. Li Zhong Zheng and Lu Li were instructed to inform their master to prepare for deployment.
Later, Qin Lie confessed to Ling Yushi that the story about Pu Jiao was a lie, a necessary facade for the "greater good" and his ambition to meet Master Mo Hai of the Artefact Forging Sect. Ling Yushi, though worried about his journey to Purple Mist Sea, urged him to follow his path and not let her be a hindrance. Qin Lie promised to return and take her to see all the wonders of the world.
Ling Yushi then mentioned her own impending departure to Qisha Valley with Li Zhong Zheng for her fire poison treatment, warning Qin Lie about Li Zhong Zheng's questionable character. Qin Lie misunderstood her warning to be about Lu Li. Before leaving, Qin Lie visited Gao Yu, who was grieving over his sister Gao Huang'er's body, the evil ring on his finger pulsating ominously. Gao Yu, wanting to be alone, asked Qin Lie to leave.
Du Haitan confronted Du Shaoyang, revealing he saw through their deceit but chose to play along for the larger strategic picture. He warned Du Shaoyang not to trust Qin Lie, asserting that Qin Lie would never be his true friend. Du Shaoyang then sought out Qin Lie. They acknowledged their mutual distrust but agreed to temporarily set aside their personal grievances to unite against the Nether War and seize the opportunity to meet Master Mo Hai.
They vowed to settle their personal scores once the war concluded. Qin Lie then went to bid farewell to Li Mu, thanking him for his past advice. Li Mu, feigning nonchalance, gave Qin Lie a manual containing the forging technique for "Terminator Profound Bombs" along with a list of necessary materials, instructing him to practice it, but warned him to be careful not to blow himself up.
Meanwhile, Ling Chengye received a letter from Ling Yushi, which Ling Xuanxuan read to him. The letter detailed the escalating Nether War, Qin Lie's involvement, the clarified cause of Uncle Hua's death (stating it was not Du Shaoyang's doing, though the full truth remained undisclosed), and Ling Yushi's own journey to Qisha Valley for her fire poison treatment. The letter also conveyed her master's order for Ling Xuanxuan to return to Qisha Valley.
Ling Chengye, despite his worries, encouraged Ling Xuanxuan to pursue her own path. However, Ling Xuanxuan, grappling with the unresolved truth of Hua Yuxin's disappearance, had to temporarily set aside her search and her home, embarking on the journey back to Qisha Valley as ordered by her master. She bid her father a tearful goodbye.
Song Tingyu, Qin Lie, and Du Shaoyang arrived near Purple Mist City, a heavily fortified stronghold against the Nether tribe, guarded by Xie Zhizhang of the Eight Extremes Temple. On the battlefield, Song Tingyu questioned Xie Zhizhang about casualties. Xie Zhizhang, annoyed by her inexperience, openly challenged her leadership, contrasting her approach with that of Saintess Xie, his niece, who prioritized the well-being of soldiers.
Humiliated, Song Tingyu ordered Liang Zhong to remain behind and took Qin Lie and Du Shaoyang to the armoury hall to meet Master Mo Hai. Qin Lie and Du Shaoyang, aware of Master Mo Hai's reputation for being harsh and eccentric, were surprised when the master, after criticizing and discarding a poorly crafted blade, accepted them as helpers. Du Shaoyang chose to manage Master Mo Hai's meals, while Qin Lie was assigned to run errands.
That night, Song Tingyu, sensing Xie Jingxuan's lingering presence and recalling their shared childhood dream of exploring the Purple Mist Sea, ventured out to sea. She found Xie Jingxuan on a small boat, who revealed she faked her death to escape the duties of a Saintess and pursue love, far from the world's conflicts. Song Tingyu condemned her for abandoning her responsibilities, but Xie Jingxuan retorted by highlighting Song Tingyu's own obsession with Gong Mulie.
They discussed the mysterious figure at the Luminous Pillar, with Xie Jingxuan speculating that it was Gong Mulie's consciousness projected onto Qin Lie, whom she believed was more formidable than Du Shaoyang. She openly declared her affection for Du Shaoyang, warning Song Tingyu against harming him. After a heated argument, Xie Jingxuan offered Song Tingyu advice: to use a "love spell" on Qin Lie to make him compliant and extract information.
Meanwhile, Ling Yushi, accompanied by Li Zhong Zheng, arrived at the Water Valley in Qisha Valley. The valley master, Jiu Liuyu, examined Ling Yushi's fire poison, offered an elixir, and advised her to focus on cultivation, assuring her of eventual recovery. Li Zhong Zheng then escorted Ling Yushi to her room, presenting her with the "Heavenly Water Spirit Record," a high-level water spirit art.
As he tried to touch her hand, he was interrupted by Lu Li, who sternly warned Ling Yushi to stay away from Li Zhong Zheng and accused her of seducing her "brother." Later, Du Shaoyang, performing his kitchen duties, was astonished to find Xie Jingxuan working as a helper in Purple Mist City. That night, they met secretly. Xie Jingxuan served him a meal she had personally prepared.
Du Shaoyang, impressed by her culinary skills, volunteered that he had not married Ling Yushi. He then pressed her about how she gained access to the highly restricted military zone, questioning her true identity and intentions. Xie Jingxuan boldly confessed her love for him, stating her sole purpose was him. However, Du Shaoyang gravely rejected her, declaring his disinterest in romantic love and urging her to leave, as her presence would distract him from his goals.
Xie Jingxuan insisted on staying, promising to share her knowledge on how to defeat the Nether tribe and earn Song Tingyu's favor. Following Xie Jingxuan's advice, Song Tingyu invited Qin Lie to dinner, hoping to glean information. Qin Lie, however, was wary and ate quickly, intending to leave. Exasperated, Song Tingyu forcefully invaded his consciousness with her spiritual power. Within Qin Lie's memories, she witnessed a pivotal moment: Gong Mulie turning, revealing Qin Lie's own face, confirming the powerful connection.
To her shock, her spiritual power was violently repelled by Qin Lie, causing her to vomit blood—an unprecedented backlash. As Du Shaoyang arrived, intending to share Xie Jingxuan's strategies, he found Qin Lie standing motionless with closed eyes, and Song Tingyu hastily retreating to her room, clearly injured and needing to restore her spiritual balance.
Episode 11 Recap
Upon waking, Qin Lie found Du Shao Yang in his room, who, having witnessed Qin Lie and Saintess Song's peculiar interaction the previous night, pressed him for details. Before Qin Lie could explain, Saintess Song entered, offering a fabricated account: she claimed to have sensed Netherworld demon aura around Qin Lie and had merely helped him dispel it. She then asked if Qin Lie felt any strange hallucinations, which he denied.
Accepting her explanation, Du Shao Yang followed Saintess Song out, ready to discuss his own business with her. Du Shao Yang and Saintess Song met Master Mo Hai, who was analyzing residual energy from Dark Shadow Tribe death warriors, noting their triple power due to their ability to self-recover three times. Du Hai Tian soon arrived, revealing that the Netherworld Race targeted Master Mo Hai because he was forging a divine artifact to seal the Netherworld passage.
Saintess Song proposed luring the enemy in, a plan Master Mo Hai agreed to by offering himself as bait and creating an illusion array. However, they realized the critical need for Demon Purifying Grass to neutralize the Dark Nether Race's self-healing. Du Hai Tian suggested that Ling Borough, known for cultivating spiritual herbs for generations, could provide it. Saintess Song approved his request to lead warriors of the North as vanguard for this mission.
Later, Gao Yu confronted Du Hai Tian, recalling a secret meeting between Du Hai Tian and Ling Bo in the Silent Abyss. Du Hai Tian admitted Ling Bo was his spy in Ling Borough, justifying it as part of his duties as Master of Xingyun Pavilion and subtly referencing the death of Huang'er. Gao Yu feigned understanding but resolved to observe Du Hai Tian closely.
Qin Lie approached Master Mo Hai for spiritual herbs, listed in his recipe for forging Destructive Thunder. Master Mo Hai provided the herbs but warned Qin Lie about the power and danger of forging such a potent artifact. Qin Lie explained his need for a strong self-defense weapon against the impending Netherworld battle, and Master Mo Hai granted him access to an Artefact Forging Hall. Taking the opportunity, Qin Lie asked about his missing grandfather, Qin Shan.
Master Mo Hai, however, had no knowledge of Qin Shan, promising to inquire once he returned to Artefact Forging Sect. Qin Lie then headed to the Artefact Forging Hall. In Water Valley, Ling Yushi was cultivating by a waterfall. Her master observed that despite her progress, her mind was full of distracting thoughts.
The master noted Ling Yushi's unique Water Spirit Constitution had already eliminated half of her fire poison and encouraged her to advance her cultivation further to fully remove it and boost her power. However, the master sternly warned Ling Yushi to clear her mind, or face a backlash during her cultivation. While Qin Lie was forging Destructive Thunder, he sensed someone outside his Artefact Forging Hall and discovered Saintess Song secretly watching him.
When confronted, she claimed authority as general of the Purple Mist Sea Battlefield and said she was checking if he was still alive. She then abruptly announced that the Ling Family had arrived, sending an overjoyed Qin Lie rushing out. Du Hai Tian hosted a banquet for the Ling Family, welcoming them and assigning Ling Chengye the crucial mission of escorting the spiritual herbs to a designated location.
He emphasized its importance for the war and as an opportunity for the Ling Family to gain fame. Ling Chengye confidently accepted the task. Gao Yu observed silently, sensing Du Hai Tian's deceit but recognizing it wasn't the right time to act. Qin Lie then approached Ling Chengye, eager to read Ling Yushi's letter. After learning of Ling Yushi's well-being and progress, Qin Lie expressed his desire to visit her after the Netherworld battle.
Ling Chengye, however, scolded him, accusing him of being opportunistic and stating that Qin Lie was "not qualified" to seek her out now that she was a favored disciple of Evil Aura Valley. Ling Chengye also asked if Qin Lie had inquired about his grandfather, Qin Shan, with Master Mo Hai. Qin Lie confirmed Master Mo Hai had no information but promised to help.
Qin Lie then asked Ling Chengye to recount more stories about his grandfather, hoping to gain inspiration for his artifact forging. Ling Chengye, though slightly annoyed, agreed and praised Qin Shan's abilities. Xie Jingxuan and Du Shao Yang sailed on a small boat. Du Shao Yang teased Xie Jingxuan about her changing identities. Xie Jingxuan warned him about the Dark Shadow Tribe and acknowledged Du Shao Yang's previous information about Master Mo Hai being the enemy's target.
Du Shao Yang vowed to repay her favor. Xie Jingxuan refused to share all her secrets, believing it was not good for him to know too much. Instead, she gave him a magical earring, a "tool to keep him alive" that allowed him to hear everything, enhancing his vigilance on the battlefield. With this aid, Du Shao Yang's confidence grew. The Ling Family, carrying the spiritual herbs, proceeded towards the quiet valley as instructed by Du Hai Tian.
Ling Chengye expressed a premonition that something was amiss in the silent valley, but others reassured him of Du Hai Tian's plans. Meanwhile, Master Mo Hai's attempt to seal the Netherworld passage failed, leading to a massive influx of the Horned Demon Tribe, the Dark Nether Race's main force. They immediately headed towards the herb-planting site where the Ling Family was. From a high vantage point, Du Hai Tian and Du Shao Yang observed the chaos.
Du Shao Yang volunteered to lead reinforcements to aid the Ling Family, but Du Hai Tian stopped him, revealing his sinister intent to let the Ling Family be annihilated as retribution for Huang'er's death. At the herb site, Ling Chengye realized Du Hai Tian's treachery as the promised aid didn't arrive. The Horned Demon Tribe quickly encircled the herb site and Purple Mist City. Song Tingyu and Qin Lie fought valiantly but were outnumbered.
As several Horned Demon Tribe warriors charged at Qin Lie, Song Tingyu bravely shielded him. Du Hai Tian, having instructed his son Du Shao Yang to wait until the Ling Family was wiped out, found that Du Shao Yang had already disobeyed and rushed to the herb site. The Ling Family warriors suffered severe casualties.
Witnessing Du Shao Yang's desperate fight, Ling Chengye felt a surge of relief, but when a Horned Demon Tribe warrior unleashed a deadly attack on Du Shao Yang, Ling Chengye selflessly leaped in front, taking the fatal blow and dying instantly. Du Shao Yang succumbed to the continuous attacks and fell unconscious. Just as Du Shao Yang fell unconscious, Xie Jingxuan dramatically appeared, effortlessly dispatching the surrounding Horned Demon Tribe warriors.
Seeing Du Hai Tian and his forces approach, Xie Jingxuan quickly departed. Du Hai Tian's arrival, however, was not for aid but to claim credit and eliminate witnesses. He ordered his men to brutally murder the remaining surviving members of the Ling Family who lay wounded. Hidden in the nearby forest, Gao Yu witnessed Du Hai Tian's heinous act of betrayal and slaughter, leaving him shocked and enraged.
After the battle, Du Hai Tian reported to Saintess Song, falsely claiming that the entire Ling Family perished in battle and that Gao Yu had deserted. Saintess Song later found Qin Lie kneeling in anguish beside the bodies of the Ling Family members. She attempted to console him, even offering to allow him to take the bodies back to the snow land for burial, but her aide Liang Zhong stopped her.
Back in her room, Liang Zhong confronted Saintess Song, revealing that she had secretly implanted a love spell in Qin Lie to uncover his secrets, only for it to backfire due to Qin Lie's unique spiritual state. Saintess Song admitted her thoughtlessness. Liang Zhong, furious, stressed the need for secrecy, especially from her father, and urged her to remove the love spell immediately. Back in his room, Qin Lie discovered a farewell letter written by Ling Chengye.
In the letter, Ling Chengye confessed that he had lied about his close relationship with Qin Shan to comfort Qin Lie. He revealed the truth: Qin Shan, who excelled in artifact forging, owed the Ling Family a great debt, and Qin Shan brought a young Qin Lie, who was violent and had lost his memories after a childhood disaster, to Ling Borough for a nurturing environment.
Ling Chengye also recounted Qin Shan's visit the night before his disappearance, when he vaguely referenced a "Soul Suppressing Orb" in Qin Lie's brain but provided no further details before vanishing. Realizing this journey might be his last, Ling Chengye wrote this letter to ensure Qin Lie seeks the truth in the right direction and to entrust Ling Yushi to his care.
Overwhelmed with grief yet resolved, Qin Lie decided to bring the bodies of the Ling Family warriors back to Ling Borough for burial. Master Mo Hai approached, offering to teach Qin Lie how to fully empower his Destructive Thunder with spiritual arrays after the burial, but Qin Lie, heavy-hearted, respectfully declined for now, stating his intent to go home.
Enraged by Du Shao Yang's impulsive decision to aid the Ling Family, which ruined his treacherous plans, Du Hai Tian confronted his son, expressing deep disappointment. He declared his intention to cripple Du Shao Yang's cultivation, forcing him into true repentance before allowing him to cultivate again. Du Shao Yang defiantly stated he would rather die. Suddenly, Xie Jingxuan appeared.
She swiftly intervened, displaying formidable power against Du Hai Tian and warning him that if he wasn't Du Shao Yang's father, he would already be dead. She then forcibly took Du Shao Yang away, vanishing without a trace. Qin Lie returned to Ling Borough, bearing the bodies of the fallen Ling Family warriors. The villagers were overcome with shock and grief, plunging the already sparsely populated town into a somber atmosphere. Qin Lie noticed that Gao Yu quietly left the group, his whereabouts unknown.
Episode 12 Recap
Qin Lie found Gao Yu and confronted him about fleeing before the battle at Ling Borough. Gao Yu revealed the harrowing truth that the Ling family was not killed by the Horned Demon Race, but by Du Hai Tian. Gao Yu recounted witnessing Du Hai Tian’s men inspect the fallen Lings, delivering a final blow to anyone barely alive, after using them as bait for the Horned Demon Race. Du Hai Tian then claimed credit for "cleaning up."
Qin Lie, enraged, questioned Gao Yu's inaction. Gao Yu admitted to fighting initially but then hiding in the chaos, explaining that if he had died too, no one would have known the truth.
He further elaborated that Du Hai Tian orchestrated the massacre due to the long-standing animosity between the Du and Ling families, and because Qin Lie's recent heroic deeds, including killing the Spirit Devouring Beast, and closeness with Saintess Song at Purple Mist Sea had overshadowed Du Hai Tian's own son. Qin Lie, consumed by fury, vowed revenge. Gao Yu suggested that Qin Lie remain to handle the funeral arrangements while he retrieved Ling Yushi from Qisha Valley.
They, along with Ling Yushi, would then reconvene to plan their vengeance, and Gao Yu promised to comfort Ling Yushi on Qin Lie's behalf. Meanwhile, Du Hai Tian made a grand return to Xingyun Pavilion, where he was greeted by Yuan Tianya, the Master of the Palace of Hell, who lauded his merits. Yuan Tianya inquired about Du Shaoyang, mentioning his contributions in the Purple Mist Sea and Master Mo Hai's commendation.
Du Hai Tian, however, vaguely explained that his son, despite some talent, had left to gain experience after a minor scolding for some impropriety during the evil tribe battle, his whereabouts unknown. Yuan Tianya then praised Du Hai Tian's decisiveness and hinted at the selection of the new Master of Xingyun Pavilion, given the heavy casualties.
Du Hai Tian offered his full cooperation, but Yuan Tianya remained enigmatic, stating he needed to think more and hinting at deeper concerns before departing, leaving Du Hai Tian to ponder his mysterious words and his "playing mysterious" tactics. Qin Lie returned to Icestone City and sought out Li Mu, needing an appropriate Spiritual Array to complete his cultivation of the Terminator Profound Bomb.
Li Mu, already aware of Qin Lie's vengeful intentions, decided to stabilize him by keeping him at his shop. Qin Lie, puzzled by Li Mu's extensive knowledge yet evasiveness about his own identity, earnestly asked to be taught the necessary techniques, emphasizing his desperate desire to avenge his family using the Terminator Profound Bomb, even if it meant dying in the process. Li Mu warned him of the dangers but allowed him to stay and train in a spare room.
Ling Yushi arrived back at Ling Borough with Gao Yu, only to find the entire town in mourning around piles of bodies. She was heartbroken to see her father, Ling Cheng Ye, among the deceased, his body cold to the touch. She wept, realizing she had returned too late. When asked about Ling Xuanxuan, a villager informed her that Xuanxuan had gone searching for Hua Yuxin but was expected to return.
Ling Yushi then inquired about Qin Lie, only to learn he had left a letter and vanished the next day. The letter stated that his experiences at Purple Mist Sea had broadened his horizons, and he sought further cultivation at the Artefact Forging Sect, promising to return once he had achieved something. However, a cynical villager, Ling Ying, claimed Qin Lie had abandoned Ling Yushi for Saintess Song, finding her too "bloodthirsty."
Another villager tried to encourage Ling Yushi to accept the situation. Ling Yushi, despite her grief, realized Qin Lie's deeper intentions were likely to avenge their family. Ling Ying later advised Ling Yushi to overcome her personal sorrows and attend to the needs of the living, challenging her to not abandon the surviving villagers. Ling Yushi, realizing the desperate plight of her people, decided to take action.
Ling Yushi then proposed that the surviving villagers relocate to a village outside Qisha Valley, a sanctuary for disciples' families. She declared that Ling Borough was in ruins and that she needed time to heal her fire poison before deciding the future direction of their clan – whether to rebuild Ling Borough or find a new path. Inspired by her resolve, the villagers unanimously agreed to follow her.
Ling Yushi then announced that the upcoming annual Moon Ritual, the only night they could see the moon in Ling Borough, would be a time for everyone to entrust their wishes to the moon, seeking guidance through their hardships. Meanwhile, Qin Lie relentlessly practiced the Terminator Profound Bomb. Despite repeated failures, his desire for revenge drove him to continue. Li Mu, observing his struggles, offered guidance, advising him to rest and rethink his approach, explaining that rushing often hindered progress.
After an entire night of persistent effort, Qin Lie successfully created a rudimentary Terminator Profound Bomb. Li Mu cautioned him that its power was basic and required surprise and a single decisive blow for effectiveness, as a failed first attempt would allow the enemy to prepare, making a second strike futile.
Du Hai Tian received a mysterious letter, instructing him to meet at a city restaurant at sunset to discuss the return of the evil tribe, emphasizing the need for discretion. Upon arrival, he was confronted by Qin Lie, who issued a challenge. Qin Lie publicly accused Du Hai Tian of deliberately orchestrating the Ling family's demise at Purple Mist Sea for personal gain, and declared his intention to avenge his deceased family members.
Du Hai Tian scoffed at the "baseless accusation," twisting the narrative to portray the Lings as heroes who died defending their land. He accepted the challenge, confident in the vast difference in their cultivation realms. Despite being severely outmatched, with Du Hai Tian being at the pinnacle of the Nirvana Realm and Qin Lie at the pinnacle of the Natal Opening Realm, Qin Lie fought with unwavering determination.
Du Hai Tian easily overpowered Qin Lie, inflicting multiple wounds and mocking his opponent's audacity. As Qin Lie lay battered, Du Hai Tian gloated, savoring the moment. He recounted his pleasure in watching Ling Cheng Ye and the Ling family being slowly defeated and killed one by one by the Horned Demon Race from an opposite mountain valley. Enraged, Qin Lie summoned a bolt of heavenly lightning, which struck and shattered a stone pillar near Du Hai Tian.
Seizing the momentary distraction, Qin Lie unleashed his Terminator Profound Bomb, instantly killing Du Hai Tian. Upon learning that Qin Lie had killed Du Hai Tian, Yuan Tianya, the Master of the Palace of Hell, immediately ordered the lockdown of Xingyun Pavilion and dispatched all available fighters to capture and execute Qin Lie before dawn. News of Du Hai Tian’s death and the manhunt reached Ling Borough, worrying Ling Yushi.
Her friend advised her to keep the news quiet to avoid further trouble and suggested they leave for Qisha Valley the next morning. However, Ling Yushi, desperate to find Qin Lie, wrote her heartfelt wish on a lantern during the Moon Ritual, hoping to find him and stand by his side, even if it meant facing death together. Later, Gao Yu approached Ling Yushi.
She astutely realized that the letter Qin Lie had supposedly written was, in fact, penned by Gao Yu himself. Ling Yushi deduced that Gao Yu had deliberately told Qin Lie the truth about Du Hai Tian's treachery, but had not accompanied him, effectively sending Qin Lie to his death. Gao Yu then confessed, his true malicious nature emerging.
He admitted that his actions were motivated by a desire for revenge for his sister's death, for which he blamed Qin Lie, jealousy of Qin Lie's relationship with Ling Yushi, and a sinister yearning to possess her, now that he was possessed by an evil spirit. Ling Yushi pleaded with him to reconsider, suggesting they search for Qin Lie together. Gao Yu mockingly replied that they could collect Qin Lie's corpse after they were married.
As Gao Yu advanced menacingly, disregarding Ling Yushi's fervent resistance, he subjected her to a brutal assault, leaving her feeling utterly helpless. Meanwhile, a gravely wounded Qin Lie, on the run from Yuan Tianya’s forces, narrowly escaped death thanks to Li Mu’s timely intervention.
As Li Mu and Song Ting Yu (who is revealed to be the Master of Frost, and had earlier removed a "love spell" that was on her, now seeking something from Qin Lie) tended to Qin Lie's injuries, they discovered an ancient seal on his body, preventing him from dying despite mortal wounds. Li Mu, having once been saved by Qin Lie's grandfather, felt bound by duty to protect him.
Yuan Tianya soon tracked Qin Lie to Li Mu's shop and attempted to storm the premises. However, Song Ting Yu, leveraging her immense power as the Master of Frost, repelled Yuan Tianya's forces. Recognizing her formidable strength, Yuan Tianya was forced to retreat, watching helplessly as Li Mu and Song Ting Yu escorted Qin Lie away. After Gao Yu's brutal act, Ling Yushi rose from the ground, her gaze fixed on the bright moon.
Her initial desperation hardened into a firm resolve: she would personally avenge herself against Gao Yu. In the Forbidden Grit Realm, Hua Tianqiong and Gong Mushan conversed. Hua Tianqiong, who had assumed the persona of "Hua Father" in Ling Borough, playfully lamented losing his "wife and son" during his recent stint in the mortal realm, but expressed relief that Gong Mushan's grandson, Qin Lie, had survived multiple close calls. Gong Mushan proudly acknowledged Qin Lie's resilience.
Gong Mushan then explained that Hua Yuxin was actually created from a portion of the pure and kind spirit of Yiyuan, the Young Master of Purple Mist City, to accompany and aid Qin Lie. Now that Hua Yuxin's purpose was fulfilled, Yiyuan was left somewhat simple-minded, and Hua Tianqiong agreed it was time to return Yiyuan's spirit to him.
Hua Tianqiong, though feigning exasperation, admitted his preference for Qin Lie’s human lineage, finding him more engaging than Gong Mu Lie, who he found too serious. Gong Mushan, however, cherished both his "Lie'ers," his mixed-blood grandsons, equally. Though they spoke of Qin Lie facing challenges alone, both elders harbored a secret hope for his future growth and strength.
Episode 13 Recap
Qin Lie, Buli, and Li Mu arrived at the Ice Peak of the Frost Mountains. Li Mu explained that this peak was once a vast, lush forest, home to many ancient spirit beasts. According to legend, someone made an imprint in the void, which led to the creation of the Frost Mountains.
This single palm imprint descended from the void, stretching for hundreds of miles and thousands of meters deep, causing the chill to dissipate and freeze all spirit beasts, sealing the world in ice. The power of that palm destroyed everything, and the essence of frost it embodies has remained unchanged and flourishes here. Li Mu told Qin Lie that grasping this essence depends on his good fortune and gave him three months.
When Qin Lie asked how he could comprehend it, Buli helped him enter a meditative state. As he meditated, Qin Lie saw visions of "All beings are connected," "The land is the vein, the body is the tendon," and "The paths of stars and the changes of the earth are all Spirit Diagrams." Buli and Li Mu then left, promising to return for him in three months. Meanwhile, Gao Yu was hiding in a cave to cultivate his dark energy.
He witnessed soldiers pursuing Di Shi Jiu, the Master of Shadow Tower. Gao Yu attempted to seize Di Shi Jiu, but was quickly counter-attacked. Di Shi Jiu, master of Shadow Tower and a wanted criminal by the Palace of Hell, recognized that Gao Yu did not know the Blood Fiend Spirit Arts but was impressed by his evil aura and ruthlessness. Xie Jingxuan and Du Shaoyang lived peacefully for three months in a secluded paradise.
During this time, Du Shaoyang's injuries fully recovered, and he fell deeply in love with Xie Jingxuan. He began to sense that she was hiding something from him. Xie Jingxuan, seeing his affection, reluctantly revealed that his father, Du Hai Tian, had died. She explained that during the battle at Purple Mist Sea, Du Hai Tian had killed many members of the Ling family.
To avenge them, Qin Lie challenged and killed Du Hai Tian in the street, an event witnessed by many. The Palace of Hell had issued an order to arrest Qin Lie, but he had not yet been found. Du Shaoyang was shocked and instantly filled with a desire for revenge.
As anticipated, within three months, Qin Lie's spiritual roots had not only comprehended but also completely absorbed the essence of frost from the Ice Peak, an extraordinary feat that surprised both Buli and Li Mu. Buli recalled that Qin Lie's grandfather, Qin Shan, had once trained on the snowfield's summit, skillfully demonstrating the Law of Five Elements (metal, wood, water, fire, earth).
She realized that the Qin family line must possess innate synergy with the five elements' spirit wells, and it was these spirit roots that allowed Qin Lie to absorb the frost. Li Mu noted that Qin Lie's temperament had changed, and he had progressed from the pinnacle of the Natal Opening Realm to the Manifestation Realm, though he still needed time to consolidate his new level.
Qin Lie described how the essence of frost had formed a Spirit Diagram in his mind, which Buli praised as remarkable, containing the profound ways of heaven and earth, potentially leading to ancient divine spiritual skills. Buli then presented Qin Lie with the Eye of Frost, a key to entering the Crystal World, allowing him free access to the Ice Peak for further cultivation. She explained that she was repaying a debt to Qin Shan, who had once helped her.
Qin Lie, upon learning they knew his grandfather, eagerly asked why Qin Shan had come there. Buli revealed that Qin Shan had wanted to enter the deep Land of Frost, a place she guarded, and had defeated her to gain entry. He seemed to be searching for something but ultimately found nothing, before offering her cultivation advice and leaving.
Buli urged Qin Lie to understand that the essence of frost was his spiritual power source and to carefully study the Spirit Diagram. Qin Lie expressed his profound gratitude and stated his intention to go to the Artefact Forging Sect to seek clues about his grandfather. Buli explained that the Artefact Forging Sect, though a Black Iron Class force, was independent of the Profound Heaven Alliance and Eight Extremes Temple, serving as a sacred hub for all artificers.
She advised him to use an alias while pursuing entry, as he was still a wanted man, and to only revert to his true name once he became a core apprentice. Li Mu warned Qin Lie that he must resolve whatever was bothering him, or he would fail the Artefact Forging Sect's rigorous tests. Song Tingyu returned to the Profound Heaven Alliance to report the defeat of the Soul Reaping Beast to its master, Song Yu.
She tried to conceal her actions in Icestone City, but Song Yu already knew she was hiding something and angrily accused her of not reporting sooner. He questioned her for taking three months, contrasting her with Xie Jingxuan who would have settled matters in three days. Song Tingyu admitted she wanted to hide that the Soul Reaping Beast was not killed by her hands, fearing it would tarnish her father's reputation.
Enraged, Song Yu accused her of caring more about "that Gong Mu Lie who doesn't exist" than him, and said she had "lost her mind from reading too many books." He then violently smashed a treasured collection jar she held dear and attacked her. Song Si Yuan quickly intervened, preventing further harm.
Song Yu scornfully reminded Song Tingyu that at her age, he had already reached the peak of the Fulfillment Realm, while she remained stuck in the Netherpassage Realm, calling her useless. Du Shaoyang went to his father, Du Hai Tian's, grave. The Hall Master appeared, impressed that Du Shaoyang still recognized him after so many years, showing his sharp memory.
The Hall Master, noting the Du family's diminished influence since he took over Xingyun Pavilion, challenged Du Shaoyang to demonstrate "real strength" if he wished to regain control. Du Shaoyang fiercely vowed that he would not rest until Qin Lie, his father's killer, was found and avenged. The Hall Master then offered him a path to reclaim Xingyun Pavilion: he must participate in the Artefact Forging Sect's annual recruitment test, which would take place in a few days.
Du Shaoyang then bid a heartfelt farewell to Xie Jingxuan, whom he affectionately called Siqi. He expressed that he understood her own need to pursue a path, just as he needed to face himself. He implored her not to secretly follow him or offer him any help this time, as he was determined to achieve his goals through his own efforts.
They shared a poignant goodbye, with Du Shaoyang promising that if they were to meet again, he would never leave her side. He then instructed his attendant to tend to his father's grave, emphasizing that he was no longer the privileged young master and intended to face his challenges independently. The annual recruitment test for the Artefact Forging Sect was about to begin, and many hopefuls had gathered at its gates.
Yiyuan, the young master of Purple Mist City, appeared, greeting Ouyang Qing and Pang Feng, who were also present. Pang Feng, however, rudely questioned why Yiyuan wasn't guarding his city's gate. Yiyuan casually replied that his father had "kicked him out" for not doing a good job, so he was merely "trying his luck."
Soon after, Du Shaoyang arrived, immediately becoming the target of ridicule from other disciples, who called him the "former young master" and mocked him for guarding his father's "empty grave." Qin Lie, wearing a mask and going by the name Qin Bing, recognized Yiyuan, who bore a resemblance to Hua Yuxin, and observed the scene with wary silence, as did Du Shaoyang, their eyes meeting in silent apprehension.
The examiner, Lian Rou, who was the Artefact Forging Sect's Second Senior, then appeared. She swiftly silenced a disrespectful attendee before announcing that while the rules would not be elaborated, each applicant must submit a highest-grade spirit stone, which was non-refundable. Lian Rou then led the group on a tour, explaining that the Artefact Forging Sect was the highest-level forging sect in Chilan Continent, requiring rigorous training.
She emphasized that while forging involved infusing spirit materials with spiritual power, the crucial component was the Spirit Diagrams of one's personal attributes. For the first stage of the test, participants had to use stone pillars as stepping stones to reach the mountain peak. Yiyuan, demonstrating water and fire skills, was the first to successfully cross.
Other participants, including Du Shaoyang, mocking the apparent ease, rushed onto the pillars but promptly fell as the pillars shattered beneath them; they had failed to recognize the embedded Spirit Diagrams. Qin Lie, under his alias Qin Bing, then skillfully navigated the pillars, earning praise for his "beautiful display" and "beautiful mask." Yiyuan introduced himself to Qin Bing. The group then proceeded to the second stage: the Cliff of Serenity.
Lian Rou explained that artificers must possess a pure and calm heart. Participants were required to place their hand on a stone wall; those without distracting thoughts would be blessed with a path to cross to the other side. Failure meant returning home. She added that a maze behind the mountain would further test one's mental purity, and only those who remained unperturbed could pass.
Lian Rou noted that only one person had ever passed within a day, with even the most talented requiring three days, and some taking up to a month, though she warned they would not wait that long. After Lian Rou left, Qin Lie found no path appearing before him. He recalled Li Mu's warning that he must resolve whatever was bothering him or he would fail.
Realizing his mind was filled with thoughts of Ling Yushi, and unable to achieve the required mental clarity, Qin Lie decisively turned back, choosing to leave the Cliff of Serenity. Meanwhile, Ling Yushi found herself unable to calm down and focus on her cultivation, her mind consumed by thoughts of how to kill Gao Yu. She confessed her struggles to her Senior, admitting her fear of wavering as she had never killed anyone before.
Her master advised her that to achieve greatness, one must be resolute and not hesitate at crucial moments. The master then had Ling Yushi hold a cup of water and asked what she saw. Ling Yushi replied she saw herself. Her master explained that the reflection in the water was both her and not her, representing her past, present, and future selves, questioning which was the true her.
She further elaborated that humans are like duckweed, drifting without direction due to constant change. Only by finding and truly understanding her inner self would Ling Yushi gain clarity and direction. Ling Yushi grasped her master's teaching. Using the Eye of Frost, Qin Lie returned to the Ling family village.
He paid his respects to the ancestral tablets, including those of Ling Yushi's parents and Ling Cheng Yu, bowing deeply and apologizing for not being able to stay long, as he had important tasks to accomplish outside. He vowed to stay alive and return to them. He then traveled to the Water Spirit Valley, where he found Ling Yushi. She greeted him, saying she knew he would come for her.
Qin Lie apologized for not being there for her uncle's final journey, to which Ling Yushi responded that "the living has to live with the loss, but the pain will heal." Qin Lie reassured her that he was well and had entered the Artefact Forging Sect under the alias Qin Bing. Ling Yushi cautioned him to be careful and keep his identity a secret.
When Qin Lie asked if she had seen Gao Yu, Ling Yushi said she hadn't and thought he had likely returned to Xingyun Pavilion. She then handed Qin Lie a note, instructing him to open and read it only when he saw Gao Yu, emphasizing that he should not ask why. Qin Lie accepted the note, promising to return for her once he had news of his grandfather.
He then hesitantly asked if their past marriage promise, which he had broken, was still valid, and if she would still marry him. Ling Yushi responded with a tender question, "Are promises necessary between us?" Qin Lie, reassured by her words, pledged, "I swear with my life," solidifying their commitment by the Water Spirit Valley.
Lian Rou led the initial four successful candidates into the Artefact Forging Sect, taking them to the forge for new apprentices, which would be their training ground for the year. Just as Lian Rou was about to outline the sect's regulations, Qin Lie, having returned from the Water Spirit Valley with a clear mind, had successfully passed the Cliff of Serenity test and arrived at the forge.
After he introduced himself as Qin Bing, Senior Sister Tang Siqi unexpectedly appeared, interrupting Lian Rou. Du Shaoyang, startled, recognized Senior Sister Tang Siqi as his beloved and tried to hide his shock, bowing respectfully to Xie Jingxuan. Unexpectedly, Xie Jingxuan then walked up to Qin Lie and called him away.
Episode 14 Recap
Xie Jingxuan led Qin Lie away, and their private conversation began. Qin Lie questioned her identity, asking if she was truly Xie Jingxuan. She acknowledged her true self but playfully remarked if he thought she was not. Qin Lie reminded her that the Xie Jingxuan he knew was the saintess of the Eight Extremes Temple, a leader of humanity against the Dark Nether Race.
Xie Jingxuan retorted that she was still a saintess, now in the hearts of all the men in the Artefact Forging Sect, and if her survival was revealed to the Eight Extremes Temple, Qin Lie’s identity as the Palace of Hell's target would put him in grave danger, not her. Qin Lie expressed his frustration that she knew so much about him while he knew nothing of her, wondering if this was another scheme with Song Tingyu.
Xie Jingxuan teased him about being unable to escape Song Tingyu's influence and offered to answer his questions if she was in a good mood. Qin Lie then asked why she faked her death. Xie Jingxuan explained she no longer wished to be the Eight Extremes Temple's saintess. Qin Lie deduced that her alias, Tang Siqi, must have been in use for a long time.
She confirmed that Tang Siqi was her identity for exploring the world even when she was still Xie Jingxuan. They then agreed to keep each other's true identities secret. Xie Jingxuan brought up Du Shao Yang, asking if Qin Lie intended to kill him after killing his father.
Qin Lie believed Du Shao Yang was an accomplice in Du Hai Tian's trap, but Xie Jingxuan vehemently denied it, revealing that Du Hai Tian had even tried to cripple his own son's cultivation. This unexpected revelation left Qin Lie in deep thought. After Lian Rou assigned rooms to Du Shao Yang and three other new initiates, she quickly left.
Pang Feng and Ouyang Qing, who also passed the assessment, invited Du Shao Yang to meet with their former Xingyun Pavilion brethren, Zhu Xin and Zhang Ying, at the training ground. Despite sensing their ill intentions, Du Shao Yang felt obligated to accept due to their shared past, a conversation secretly overheard by Yiyuan.
At the training ground, Zhu Xin and Zhang Ying revealed their long-held grievances with Du Hai Tian, which they now intended to take out on Du Shao Yang. As Du Shao Yang was cornered, Yiyuan burst into the artefact forging hall, demanding they stop. However, he was quickly overpowered.
Du Shao Yang shielded Yiyuan from an attack, prompting Yiyuan to realize the gravity of the situation and escape, calling out to a passing Qin Lie for help before rushing to alert Lian Rou and Xie Jingxuan. Qin Lie, hearing Yiyuan’s desperate plea, swiftly arrived at the artefact forging hall. Just as he prepared to intervene, Lian Rou and Xie Jingxuan appeared, bringing the altercation to a halt.
Xie Jingxuan, as Senior Tang, sternly sentenced Zhang Ying and Zhu Xin to have their inner disciple status and natal palaces revoked, then to be imprisoned by the Bloody Spear Guard in Firetop Mountain for ten years. Pang Feng and Ouyang Qing, being first-time offenders, were to receive two thousand lashes each. Lian Rou, however, corrected her, reminding everyone that she was the one known for being cold and impartial.
She commanded the guards to carry out the punishment, with a warning to kill anyone who resisted. After the commotion subsided, Master Mo Hai arrived and asked to speak privately with Qin Lie and Du Shao Yang. He acknowledged their deep-seated animosity, understanding that words alone could not resolve it. He instructed them to settle their personal grudges outside the Artefact Forging Sect before focusing on their studies within the sect.
Qin Lie and Du Shao Yang then retreated to a secluded forest. Du Shao Yang questioned why Qin Lie had saved him, arguing that his father's death for the Ling family should have also led to his demise, or that Qin Lie wanted to see him reduced to a "homeless dog." Qin Lie explained that Senior Tang had informed him of Du Shao Yang's attempt to save Ling Borough.
Du Shao Yang, in turn, expressed regret for saving the Ling family, claiming his father would still be alive if he hadn't. Qin Lie then inquired why Du Shao Yang hadn't exposed his true identity, knowing the Palace of Hell was hunting him. Du Shao Yang stated that he didn't spare Qin Lie out of mercy, but because he desired a worthy opponent.
Recognizing their shared understanding, and adhering to Master Mo Hai's directive, they agreed to postpone their inevitable confrontation until after they left the Artefact Forging Sect. Du Shao Yang later encountered Xie Jingxuan, now the revered Senior Tang of the Artefact Forging Sect. He remarked on their changed statuses—he, once the young master, now a "homeless dog," and she, once a barmaid, now a respected senior.
Xie Jingxuan, sensing his discontent, asserted that their true selves remained unchanged despite their altered circumstances. Du Shao Yang, still processing his thoughts, listened as Xie Jingxuan left him to ponder what she truly meant to him. Meanwhile, Qin Lie tended to Yiyuan's wounds, reminiscing about his late brother, Hua Yuxin, whose pure-hearted nature Yiyuan mirrored. Qin Lie asked Yiyuan about his ability to transform into a snake.
Yiyuan explained that he first encountered Lian Rou years ago when she visited Purple Mist Sea for herbs. While others looked down on him, Lian Rou treated him with kindness. Inspired by his desire to make her happy, Yiyuan had crafted a mirror from snake remains that allowed him to transform, though he admitted he didn't know how long it would take to revert to human form.
Qin Lie, moved by Yiyuan's innocence, embraced him, a gesture Yiyuan, whose heart was set on Lian Rou, gently resisted. The following day, Master Mo Hai announced the imminent opening of the Secret Realm, a place of great opportunity for young talents. He explained that a mysterious figure on the High Rank Continent had created it for cultivation, filled with spirit ingredients and beasts, offering both great rewards and dangers.
To aid their efforts, everyone would receive a Ring of Space from the storeroom. Master Mo Hai then privately summoned Du Shao Yang, who expressed his desire to join the Bloody Spear Guard. Mo Hai led Du Shao Yang to meet his wife, Yang Rong, renowned as the second most powerful member of the Bloody Spear Guard.
Yang Rong, impressed by Du Shao Yang's ambition to become a leader of the Bloody Spear Guard, offered him a special opportunity: if he could acquire the blood of the elusive Huanyu Beast from the Secret Realm, she would grant him an exceptional entry. Their discussion was interrupted by a subordinate announcing the arrival of Song Tingyu, the Saintess of the Profound Heaven Alliance, who came to deliver medicinal herbs. Qin Lie, wearing a mask, also entered the room.
Song Tingyu found his masked face familiar, but Master Mo Hai quickly introduced him by his alias, Qin Bing, an explanation Song Tingyu subtly understood without pressing for details. At the entrance to the Secret Realm, various clan disciples gathered, though the Shadow Tower members were notably absent, preferring to operate discreetly. Lian Rou arrived, followed by the Qisha Valley contingent, which included Ling Yushi.
Qin Lie felt a surge of joy upon seeing her, but as Ling Yushi began to call out to Yiyuan, Qin Lie subtly silenced her with a look. Yiyuan, noticing Lian Rou's arrival, excitedly greeted her. Ling Yushi then spoke, stating that her target was Qin Lie, not Qin Bing, indicating she knew his true identity. Just as the Secret Realm gates opened, everyone rushed in.
Yiyuan, confident in his knowledge, offered to lead the group to the most valuable spirit beast, the Huanyu Beast. Shortly after, Yuan Xiao, the young master of the Palace of Hell, arrived in his sedan, guided by Gao Yu, a guard dispatched by Di Shi Jiu. Yuan Xiao dismissed Gao Yu's safety concerns and ordered his sedan to be carried directly into the Secret Realm.
Yiyuan led Qin Lie and the others through the forest, claiming to know the Huanyu Beast's location based on the moist soil and lack of bird calls or beast tracks. Qin Lie and Lian Rou affirmed his observations. Qin Lie privately teased Yiyuan, accurately guessing that Yiyuan was merely faking his knowledge out of fear and wanted company, a fact Yiyuan bashfully admitted. As they continued, the group inadvertently entered an illusion.
The familiar forest vanished, replaced by manifestations of their deepest inner demons and regrets. Qin Lie found himself reliving the Battle of Purple Mist Sea, while Du Shao Yang encountered his father, Du Hai Tian, observing from atop a tower, seemingly unconcerned about the fate of the Ling family. Meanwhile, Yiyuan was at a dock, experiencing his first meeting with Lian Rou, which for him was a serene and colorful memory.
In Qin Lie's illusion, he found Ling Yushi at the scene of the Purple Mist Sea battle, only for Song Tingyu to appear, consumed by jealousy, attempting to kill Ling Yushi. Qin Lie struck Song Tingyu down. The illusion then shifted, bringing all those trapped in their individual inner demons back together.
Qin Lie realized the true nature of their predicament: they were inside the Huanyu Beast's belly, and the scenes they witnessed were manifestations of their deepest regrets and unresolved issues. He recalled Du Shao Yang's illusionary attack which forced him to use his thunder powers, causing the Huanyu Beast pain and temporarily breaking the illusion. Recognizing they were still trapped inside the beast, the group decided to extract its blood. The wounded Huanyu Beast then fled, releasing them all.
As Qin Lie and his companions, laden with Huanyu Beast blood, made their way out of the Secret Realm, they were intercepted by Yuan Xiao and his entourage. Yuan Xiao, intending to claim their spoils without effort, initiated an attack, plunging everyone into chaos. Qin Lie and Yuan Xiao engaged in a fierce battle, but their clash was abruptly interrupted when Gao Yu, Yuan Xiao's own guard, suddenly struck Yuan Xiao's neck with a demonic ring, killing him instantly. Qin Lie watched, stunned and shocked, as Gao Yu committed the unexpected murder.
Episode 15 Recap
Ling Yushi recognized Gao Yu despite his black mask, but he quickly escaped using his spiritual power before she could confront him. With Yuan Xiao dead, Artefact Forging Sect's Elder Cheng Ping immediately questioned Qin Lie about the killing. Qin Lie defended himself, insisting he was innocent, but lacked evidence. Just then, Song Tingyu arrived, clarifying to the elder that Yuan Xiao had attempted to murder them for their treasures, implying his death was not unprovoked.
Satisfied, the elder ceased his accusations. Later, Qin Lie expressed confusion to Song Tingyu about her attempt to kill Ling Yushi in the illusion. Song Tingyu was equally bewildered, but Ling Yushi explained that during the illusion, Song Tingyu had mistaken Qin Lie for Gong Mulie, and thus saw Ling Yushi as a rival for his affection, whom she disliked. Song Tingyu, visibly uncomfortable, abruptly left, unwilling to discuss the matter further.
Qin Lie then turned to Ling Yushi, asking about Gao Yu's strange behavior and the mysterious note she had given him. Ling Yushi initially evaded his questions, a change that felt unfamiliar to Qin Lie. Under his persistent questioning, she confessed to having prophetic dreams since childhood. In these visions, Qin Lie was devoured by a fire dragon, and she feared bringing him misfortune, which had driven her to Qisha Valley.
She also mentioned an ancient prophecy about the Mother of Earth and the son of the God of War who should not fall in love, warning of disaster if they did. Qin Lie, however, dismissed the prophecy as mere superstition intended to separate them, asserting his disbelief in destiny. He reassured Ling Yushi, placing a steady hand on her shoulder and encouraging her that their courage could change their fate, calming her anxieties.
At the Spiritual Lines Pillars Plaza, Xie Jingxuan was instructing disciples on artefact forging, emphasizing the critical role of carving Spiritual Arrays. As the others began forging, Xie Jingxuan discreetly passed a silk ribbon to Du Shao Yang. Across the plaza, Yiyuan recalled holding Lian Rou's hand in his illusion, while Lian Rou, sitting by her forging furnace, was lost in the same memory.
Startled by a sudden flare of fire from her furnace, Lian Rou shook off her distractions and refocused on forging. Meanwhile, Qin Lie sought out Yiyuan, both grappling with matters of the heart. Qin Lie confided in Yiyuan about the growing distance he felt between himself and Ling Yushi. During their conversation, Qin Lie vaguely sensed an unusual connection between himself and the Spiritual Lines Pillars.
At the Palace of Hell, leaders from Purple Mist Sea, Qisha Valley, and Cangyu Assembly convened to discuss Yuan Xiao's death. They unanimously agreed to use his demise as a pretext to attack the Artefact Forging Sect, initiating their campaign. Du Shao Yang stood before the blood pool, feeling a tremor of fear as he witnessed the agonizing expressions of those immersed within. Yet, entering the blood pool was a prerequisite for joining the Bloody Spear Guard.
Lang Xie, the leader of the Artefact Forging Sect's Bloody Spear Guard, directed him towards the pool, detailing how its mixture of blood and spiritual herbs strengthened the body but inflicted unimaginable pain. Lang Xie warned that those who faltered could dissolve into blood, leaving no trace. Steeling himself against the daunting prospect, Du Shao Yang stepped into the blood pool. Nearby, hidden in a corner, Xie Jingxuan watched.
Despite the intense pain, Du Shao Yang managed to converse with her, speculating that she was avoiding Song Tingyu due to a peculiar relationship between them. Sensing his probing, Xie Jingxuan grew irate, ordering him to stop his conjectures about her and other women, and to focus on passing the blood pool trial or leave the Sect. Du Shao Yang fell silent, their unspoken longing for each other hanging in the air.
Later, Qin Lie spotted Gao Yu and followed him to a forging site. Qin Lie confronted him, demanding to know why he had been framed for Yuan Xiao's death. Gao Yu coldly admitted it was out of jealousy: for the respect Qin Lie received in Ling Borough, his superior cultivation talent, and Ling Yushi's affection. Qin Lie then pressed him about what he had done to Ling Yushi to provoke her anger.
Gao Yu's chilling and self-serving remarks confirmed Qin Lie's horrifying realization that Gao Yu had violated Ling Yushi. Enraged, Qin Lie attacked Gao Yu with his lightning power. However, Gao Yu, now empowered by an evil ring, retaliated, easily overpowering Qin Lie. Gao Yu mocked Qin Lie, saying he was now a wanted man, destined to live in darkness like himself, before vanishing into the wind.
In the dark forest, Ling Yushi found a dejected Qin Lie, his mask removed, his face etched with helplessness and remorse. Qin Lie embraced her, desperately promising a future together—to leave the Sect, travel, or find a peaceful life. Ling Yushi immediately knew he had met Gao Yu and learned the truth. She felt his sudden declarations were pity, which she disdained. Qin Lie blamed himself for his inability to protect her.
He tried to leave, intent on seeking revenge on Gao Yu at the Palace of Hell, but Du Shao Yang, under orders from the Chief Elder to prevent his escape, blocked his path. Ling Yushi rushed over and pulled Qin Lie back. Struggling to soothe her pain, Qin Lie felt helpless, but Ling Yushi told him that the only way for him to protect her was to become stronger.
Seeing his anguish, she agreed to stay by his side, promising they would face their challenges together and asking him to conceal nothing from her anymore. Meanwhile, Yiyuan received a message from his father, the Master of Purple Mist Sea, ordering him to become an internal spy within the Artefact Forging Sect. As Yiyuan grappled with this dilemma, Lian Rou entered, giving him a task to find spiritual materials, which momentarily diverted him from his father's command.
Elsewhere, Song Tingyu received an urgent summons from the Profound Heaven Alliance Chief to return immediately, with instructions to ignore anything she might encounter en route. Puzzled, as her spiritual artefact had not yet been forged, she began to inquire about any recent changes within the Alliance. At the Spiritual Lines Pillars Plaza, Qin Lie was cultivating when the Spiritual Arrays from his dreams reappeared in his mind.
Experiencing a sudden enlightenment, he intensified his cultivation and began comprehending the Spiritual Lines Pillars one after another. Spectators watched in amazement as he mastered nine Pillars. Yiyuan, realizing the profound significance of this feat, swiftly left to inform the elders. As he rushed to the main hall, Cao Xuanrui, the Second Master of Palace of Hell, was already confronting the Artefact Forging Sect elders, demanding Qin Lie's surrender.
As tensions flared between the two factions, Yiyuan burst into the hall, reporting Qin Lie's astonishing progress at the Spiritual Lines Pillars Plaza. By the time everyone arrived, Qin Lie had already comprehended ten of the twelve Pillars, a feat only achieved by the Sect's founder and far surpassing any other disciple, who had never comprehended more than four.
This achievement marked Qin Lie not only as a prodigious talent in artefact forging but also a potential key to elevating the Artefact Forging Sect to a Silver-rank force. As the Palace of Hell members prepared to seize Qin Lie, the Sect Master Ying Xingran immediately ordered the Bloody Spear Guards to protect him, thus igniting another conflict.
Episode 16 Recap
The war between Palace of Hell and Artefact Forging Sect intensified. While Qin Lie focused on comprehending the Spiritual Lines Pillars, Artefact Forging Sect's leader, Ying Xingran, promised him the position of sect leader if he successfully illuminated all twelve pillars, believing Qin Lie's talent would make the sect the strongest in all of Chilan. Qin Lie then successfully illuminated the eleventh Spiritual Lines Pillar.
With Qin Lie's significant progress, Commander Feng and Lang Xie discussed the impending large-scale attack from the five main sects. Lang Xie acknowledged the long-standing issue of spies from the five main sects within Artefact Forging Sect. To prevent internal betrayal, he ordered the Bloody Spear Guards to capture and interrogate all disciples associated with the five sects, declaring that they would protect Qin Lie even if it meant a bloody battle in Spiritual Lines Hall.
The Blood Fiend Array was swiftly deployed, with Lang Xie warning that anyone who dared breach it would not survive. During the roundup, they discovered that Yi Yuan of Purple Mist Sea had escaped, and Senior Tang Si Qi was also missing. Lang Xie ordered a continued search for Yi Yuan, but expressed confidence that Tang Si Qi could protect herself.
Feng Rong questioned the necessity of these harsh measures, citing the disciples' past good behavior, but Lang Xie dismissed her concerns, suggesting her marriage to Mo Hai had made her naive to the world's harsh realities. Feng Rong, however, assured him that she would not hesitate when action was necessary. Meanwhile, the leaders of the five main sects gathered at the Palace of Hell.
Its leader urged them to commit to the attack, noting Palace of Hell had already initiated a vanguard assault. Some sect leaders, concerned for their disciples held within Artefact Forging Sect, hesitated, remarking on the unexpected ruthlessness of Ying Xingran and Lang Xie. Di Shi Jiu of Shadow Tower boldly volunteered to lead the main attack, declaring his indifference to Lang Xie and his intention to fight him to the death.
He offered Shadow Tower's services, but warned the other sects to be fair in distributing rewards if they succeeded, reminding them of Shadow Tower's strict rules if crossed. Di Shi Jiu confidently claimed his deep-seated animosity towards Lang Xie and the Blood Spear Guard made him the most capable person to kill Lang Xie.
Deep within the inner world of the twelve Spiritual Lines Pillars, Qin Lie encountered the Blood Progenitor, Xue Li, who was astonished by Qin Lie's presence and believed he had activated all the pillars, excitedly proclaiming his freedom after a thousand years of confinement. Qin Lie, suspicious, abruptly left the pillar's inner world, finding himself back in Artefact Forging Sect.
Mo Hai informed him that Palace of Hell's deputy chief, along with other sects, had launched a full-scale attack, seeking revenge for their young master. Mo Hai also assured Qin Lie that Lang Xie had deployed the Bloody Spear Guards for his protection and had cleared the sect of potential spies. Qin Lie, concerned for Ling Yushi, insisted on finding her, stating that his focus on the twelfth pillar was impossible with a troubled mind.
Mo Hai reluctantly agreed, urging him to return quickly. Qin Lie soon learned from a disciple that Ling Yushi had left to find a Shadow Tower assassin, leading him to suspect Gao Yu. Lang Xie and Feng Rong became uneasy with the unusual silence within the sect, soon discovering through a captured spy's confession that Shadow Tower had infiltrated the sect using a secret passage. They immediately ordered a full-scale alert. Elsewhere, Du Shaoyang frantically searched for Tang Si Qi.
He found her, but she tried to push him away, urging him to leave and save himself, claiming he was useless in the battle. Du Shaoyang, realizing she was trying to provoke him into leaving for his own safety, refused to abandon her. He declared his unwavering commitment, insisting they would face the danger together. While returning to the Profound Heaven Alliance, Song Tingyu observed messenger spirit birds from the five sects, realizing Artefact Forging Sect was under attack.
She immediately turned back to help. Di Shi Jiu, leading the Shadow Tower forces, breached Artefact Forging Sect's defenses, loudly challenging Lang Xie. He soon confronted Du Shaoyang and Tang Si Qi, revealing Tang Si Qi's true identity as Xie Jingxuan, the Saintess of Eight Extremes Temple, who had faked her death. Di Shi Jiu threatened to expose her to her father, the Temple Chief, for abandoning her duties out of mischief. Enraged, Xie Jingxuan attacked Di Shi Jiu.
Just as the fight intensified, Song Tingyu arrived and swiftly killed Di Shi Jiu with a single strike. Song Tingyu then tried to take Xie Jingxuan with her, but Du Shaoyang fearlessly shielded Xie Jingxuan, ready to die for her. Witnessing their profound devotion, Song Tingyu relented, asking Du Shaoyang to protect Xie Jingxuan before departing. Du Shaoyang, initially annoyed by Xie Jingxuan's deception, was deeply moved by her sincere love and her fear of losing him.
He comforted her, promising to stay by her side forever. Xie Jingxuan then reaffirmed her desire for a life of freedom and love, having found it with him, but admitted her fear of the consequences for him. Du Shaoyang proposed they flee to a place where no one could find them, but Xie Jingxuan refused, stating that as the Artefact Forging Sect's senior apprentice and he as a Bloody Spear Guard, they should fight fiercely alongside each other.
She declared her renewed courage in facing any challenge. When Du Shaoyang voiced concern about being recognized alongside a Saintess, Xie Jingxuan simply said they would die together if it came to that. Song Tingyu found Qin Lie and urged him to accompany her to meet her father, Song Yu, the Alliance Master of Profound Heaven Alliance.
She explained that Artefact Forging Sect was in dire peril from the combined attack of the five sects, and only her father could provide salvation. Qin Lie initially questioned her motives and his right to approach such a high-ranking figure, but Song Tingyu convinced him that his courage, demonstrated by his killing of Du Haitan, would appeal to her father, who disdained Ying Xingran's cowardice.
She emphasized that saving Artefact Forging Sect was the only way for him and Ling Yushi to survive. Reluctantly, Qin Lie agreed. As Qin Lie and Song Tingyu departed, Qin Lie spotted Gao Yu and impulsively gave chase, eager to exact revenge. Gao Yu, using dark energy, once again eluded Qin Lie, who then lost track of him. Gao Yu himself was also searching for Ling Yushi.
Meanwhile, Ling Yushi, whose senses had become incredibly acute after cultivating the Heavenly Water Spirit Record, detected Gao Yu's evil aura approaching. She feigned injury to lure him, and when he rushed to her side, she stabbed him. Gao Yu, surprised and hurt, realized Ling Yushi harbored deep hatred for him. Qin Lie and Song Tingyu then arrived, and Song Tingyu used her powers to subdue Gao Yu.
Song Tingyu retrieved a mysterious ring from Gao Yu, identifying it as a sacred and powerful artifact from the altar of the Evil Nether God, an ancient symbol of power from the Dark Nether Race. She expressed concern over how Gao Yu acquired it, suspecting a larger conspiracy, possibly related to the Soul Reaping Beast. Qin Lie, still believing Gao Yu had defiled Ling Yushi, confronted him.
Gao Yu confessed to lying to Qin Lie about assaulting Ling Yushi, solely to inflict pain upon Qin Lie. Ling Yushi then clarified that Gao Yu had not succeeded in violating her because Lu Li had intervened. At this point, the gravely injured Lu Li confessed her own dark secret: she had initially led Gao Yu to Ling Yushi out of jealousy, hoping to separate Ling Yushi from Qin Lie.
However, her conscience had prevailed, and she had stopped Gao Yu. After revealing her truth and expressing her remorse, Lu Li succumbed to her injuries and died in Ling Yushi's arms. Overcome with grief and rage, Ling Yushi lunged to kill Gao Yu, but Song Tingyu intervened. Song Tingyu explained the critical importance of investigating the Evil Ring and its connection to the Dark Nether Race to prevent any threat to Chilan.
Ling Yushi, prioritizing the greater good, agreed to a one-month deadline to use Gao Yu for investigation before she could execute him. Song Tingyu then instructed Qin Lie that Gao Yu would be incarcerated for the time being, and she needed to consult with Tang Si Qi about the crisis at Artefact Forging Sect. Qin Lie affirmed that he would remain to look after Ling Yushi.
As Qin Lie walked, he encountered Yi Yuan, who was still in his snake form. Yi Yuan pleaded with Qin Lie to hand him over to Lian Rou. Qin Lie agreed to his request.
Episode 17 Recap
After Song Tingyu found Xie Jingxuan, a tense conversation ensued regarding the recent events. Song Tingyu questioned Xie Jingxuan's ruthlessness towards her own subordinates, to which Xie Jingxuan retorted that Song Tingyu also killed Di Shi Jiu, but that was to save Xie Jingxuan. Du Shaoyang, annoyed by their bickering, interrupted them.
Song Tingyu warned Xie Jingxuan that the situation was worsening, and her identity as the Saintess of the Eight Extremes Temple was at risk of exposure, which would make it difficult for her to protect Qin Lie. They agreed to meet by the Blood Pool to discuss a strategy. Later, Song Tingyu asked Xie Jingxuan why she returned, as she was supposed to have left.
Xie Jingxuan explained that she saw a messenger spirit bird from the Five Great Sects and sensed trouble, prompting her return. She expressed her fear that if the conflict escalated, their fathers would intervene and draw swords against each other, leading to the demise of the Artefact Forging Sect. Xie Jingxuan declared that the Artefact Forging Sect was her second home, more important to her than the Eight Extremes Temple, and she would not allow anyone to defile it.
Song Tingyu agreed, acknowledging the sect's peaceful nature and Master Mo Hai's kindness, stating she also wished no harm upon it. Meanwhile, Du Shaoyang received approval from the Bloody Spear Guard leader to handle the situation. He reported that the Shadow Tower assassins had been dealt with and Di Shi Jiu brought to justice.
Du Shaoyang then ensured Di Shi Jiu's body was thrown out of the sect gates, which momentarily stunned the Five Great Sects, leaving them hesitant to advance further. The Artefact Forging Sect's key figures gathered to discuss the sect's dire future. Ling Yushi pointed out that the Five Great Sects' attack, though seemingly motivated by Yuan Tian Ya's son's death, was merely a pretext to target the Artefact Forging Sect itself.
She recalled a powerful venerable master's 700-year-old warning against harming the sect, which had previously deterred attackers. However, with the venerable master's prolonged absence, ambitious factions were now seizing the opportunity. Qin Lie then questioned if Song Tingyu and Xie Jingxuan were spies, especially considering the Profound Heaven Alliance and Eight Extremes Temple's likely complicity. Song Tingyu, denying the accusation, argued that if she were a spy, she could have easily used the Profound Heaven Seal to overpower them.
She then outlined the grim reality: the Artefact Forging Sect stood no chance against the combined forces of the Five Great Sects, as all escape routes were likely sealed. To survive, Song Tingyu proposed a truce, suggesting they lure the sect masters in and use them as bargaining chips.
She recommended Chief Elder Cheng Ping to lead the negotiations, believing his perceived cowardice would gain the trust of the Five Great Sects, while Sect Master Ying Xing Ran was too unreliable. Ling Yushi, however, doubted that Qin Lie and Du Shaoyang would follow such a peaceful plan, labeling them "disobedient men." Song Tingyu disagreed, asserting Qin Lie would listen, and they made a bet.
Indeed, shortly after leaving the refining area, Qin Lie and Du Shaoyang, discontent with the idea of a simple truce, decided to disregard Song Tingyu's peaceful approach and directly confront the Five Great Sects head-on, with Qin Lie declaring they should "kill them all." Outside the Artefact Forging Sect, the Five Great Sects had already formed ranks. Wu Tuo, the master of Cloud Sky Mountain, declared a half-hour ultimatum for the Artefact Forging Sect to surrender or face decimation.
Inside, Sect Master Ying Xing Ran lamented Qin Lie as a "jinx," but also praised him as the sect's future for mastering eleven Spiritual Lines Pillars, expressing reluctance to hand him over. However, other elders urged him to be decisive for the sect's survival, eventually convincing him that Qin Lie's fate was beyond their control. Ying Xing Ran, feeling he had no other option to save the sect, reluctantly ordered Lang Xie to seize Qin Lie.
Du Shaoyang then subtly remarked to Xie Jingxuan that "they did it," referring to their successful maneuver to get Ying Xing Ran to make that order. As the ultimatum expired, with the Five Great Sects prepared to attack, Chief Elder Cheng Ping and Master Mo Hai emerged to negotiate.
Cheng Ping initially tried to be deferential, but Mo Hai, after a brief show of humility, directly accused the Five Great Sects of their true intentions: to destroy the Artefact Forging Sect, seize its magical items, and enslave its armourers. He argued that enslaved armourers would lose their morale and become useless, presenting a dilemma for the aggressors. Palace of Hell Master Yuan Tian Yi was pressed by his peers to decide between war and peace.
Yuan Tian Yi suggested calm negotiations inside, but Mo Hai, wary of their intentions, clarified that while the Artefact Forging Sect was sincere about peace, they would not lower their guard. The Five Great Sects leaders expressed distrust for both Ying Xing Ran and Mo Hai, proposing to send their Assistant Masters for negotiations. Mo Hai, however, insisted on negotiating with the sect masters themselves, arguing the gravity of decisions affecting a hundred years of interests.
He then proposed that Chief Elder Cheng Ping, known for his connections, choose one trustworthy master to enter for talks. When Cheng Ping suggested Master Yu Dai, the other sect masters grew suspicious, fearing one of them would monopolize the benefits. Driven by individual greed and mutual distrust, they all demanded to enter together. As the five sect masters stepped into the main hall, Qin Lie dramatically appeared, removing his mask.
Palace of Hell Master Yuan Tian Yi instantly recognized him as Qin Lie, the killer of Xingyun Pavilion's Master Du, and accused the Artefact Forging Sect of harboring him. Before the sect masters could react, Qin Lie summoned the Blood Progenitor Xue Li, who swiftly bound the five masters to the Spiritual Lines Pillars. In the main hall, Sect Master Ying Xing Ran confronted Qin Lie, Xue Li, and Du Shaoyang.
Du Shaoyang immediately took responsibility for capturing the sect masters, clarifying that he and Qin Lie had planned it. Mo Hai and other members of the Bloody Spear Guard also stepped forward, confirming their involvement and expressing trust in Qin Lie's ability to use the Spiritual Lines Pillars to control the captured masters.
An elder questioned why they resorted to deception instead of an open discussion, to which Qin Lie explained it was an emergency decision made to protect the sect, as he doubted the Sect Master and Chief Elder would agree to such a risky strategy. The Bloody Spear Guard leader, sensing a potent spiritual energy from Xue Li, inquired about his identity.
Xue Li, in a commanding tone, introduced himself as the Blood Progenitor, Xue Li, former master of the Blood Fiend Sect, and the true source of all blood-related cultivation techniques, demanding respect based on his ancient lineage.
Qin Lie explained that Xue Li had been sealed within the Spiritual Lines Pillars a thousand years ago due to betrayal, with the pillars falling into the hands of the Heavenly Artefact Sect in the Realm of Chaos, later stolen by a traitor and brought to Chilan Continent to establish the Artefact Forging Sect. Qin Lie had made a deal with Xue Li: help him defeat their enemies, and he would release Xue Li.
Xue Li then warned Ying Xing Ran that anyone who dared to harm Qin Lie would face his wrath, firmly asserting his protection over the young man. Despite Xue Li's power, Ying Xing Ran pressed Qin Lie on how he intended to resolve the crisis he had created. Qin Lie replied that it depended on the captive Five Great Masters.
Shortly after, Lian Rou rushed into the hall, followed by Yi Yuan, who, distraught after learning his father was a hostage, pleaded with Qin Lie to spare his father. Qin Lie promised to spare his father's life if the Five Great Sects retreated, but in the worst-case scenario, he would need a finger as leverage. To Qin Lie's and Lian Rou's astonishment, the filial Yi Yuan immediately bit off his own finger to save his father.
Overwhelmed by the situation and suppressing his emotions, Qin Lie turned and walked away. At the Spiritual Lines Pillars Plaza, Qin Lie confronted the bound sect masters, demanding they withdraw their forces. He revealed his awareness of the Profound Heaven Alliance and Eight Extremes Temple's tacit approval for the attack. When a master defiantly refused, Du Shaoyang, on Qin Lie's command, severed a finger from the Palace of Hell Master.
Qin Lie then ordered Lang Xie to release Master Yu Dai and Jiu Liu Yu, instructing them to display the severed finger to their respective disciples as a warning: retreat, or next time, entire limbs would be taken. He explained his choice of captives: Yu Dai was Yi Yuan's father, whose life he had promised to spare, and Jiu Liu Yu was the master of his old flame, a reason he also decided to release him.
The Five Great Sect forces outside, enraged but deterred by the hostages, remained outside. Back inside, Xie Jingxuan, Ling Yushi, and Song Tingyu discussed the failure of the negotiation. Xie Jingxuan lamented Qin Lie and Du Shaoyang's impulsiveness, noting they had deviated from the plan by demanding sect masters and resorting to violence. Song Tingyu exclaimed that she had thought they would listen, implying her earlier bet.
Ling Yushi, however, praised their "delinquent" bravery, prompting Xie Jingxuan to angrily remind her of the impending intervention from the Profound Heaven Alliance and Eight Extremes Temple. Ling Yushi calmly suggested a new strategy: making Qin Lie the Artefact Forging Sect Master. She reasoned that such responsibility would temper his impulsiveness and compel him to prioritize the sect's greater good.
Soon after, Song Si Yuan of the Profound Heaven Alliance and Zhan Tian Yi of the Eight Extremes Temple arrived, issuing a stern warning to Ying Xing Ran: surrender the three captured sect masters by daybreak or face annihilation. Realizing that the lives of the captured masters held little sway with these powerful alliances, Qin Lie changed tactics. He confronted Song Tingyu, questioning her motives for returning and implying her father's complicity in the unjust war.
He then proposed using her as a hostage against the Profound Heaven Alliance. Xie Jingxuan quickly bound Song Tingyu with a spell, playing along with the ruse. Xie Jingxuan then urged Qin Lie and Du Shaoyang to leave, warning them that Ying Xing Ran and the others would soon surrender.
Before leaving, Ling Yushi advised Qin Lie to focus on swaying Master Mo Hai, whom she described as a popular figure whose followers valued freedom and would not willingly become slaves. Later, Ling Yushi discovered that Song Tingyu's "hostage" situation was a pretense orchestrated by Xie Jingxuan to get Qin Lie and Du Shaoyang to act. Song Tingyu complimented Ling Yushi's intelligence in seeing through their plan.
The three women, acknowledging their shared objective, decided to persuade Ying Xing Ran and Chief Elder Cheng Ping to appoint Qin Lie as the new Sect Master. Upon returning to the main hall, Qin Lie and Du Shaoyang were met with the furious Sect Master Ying Xing Ran. Ying Xing Ran accused Qin Lie of pushing responsibility and causing all the trouble.
Qin Lie retorted that the Five Great Sects' greed for the Artefact Forging Sect's treasures was the true cause, and he was merely a pretext. Chief Elder Cheng Ping dismissed Qin Lie's abilities without Xue Li, but Qin Lie warned him not to test his patience. Ying Xing Ran, reminding Qin Lie of his tolerance for him due to his talent (mastering eleven Spiritual Lines Pillars), reprimanded him for overstepping his bounds.
Qin Lie fiercely countered, stating that in the face of injustice, one either fights or becomes a coward, accusing Ying Xing Ran of being indecisive and weak. When Ying Xing Ran ordered Qin Lie's arrest, the Bloody Spear Guard hesitated. Mo Hai challenged Ying Xing Ran, asking if seizing Qin Lie meant surrender. He questioned if Ying Xing Ran or even Chief Elder Cheng Ping could truly represent the entire Artefact Forging Sect in such a crucial decision.
Since no single individual could speak for the whole sect, Mo Hai proposed that all disciples be summoned to voice their stance. Chief Elder Cheng Ping, however, denounced this as an outrage and an act of coercion. Xie Jingxuan then intervened, calming the heated exchange, and drew Ying Xing Ran and Chief Elder Cheng Ping aside for a private discussion.
Understanding their inherent fear of death, Xie Jingxuan subtly influenced them, and Chief Elder Cheng Ping, in turn, proposed to Ying Xing Ran the idea of abdicating the Sect Master position to Qin Lie. He presented this as a wise move to make Qin Lie the "scapegoat" for the immediate crisis, allowing Ying Xing Ran to reclaim the position after the dust settled without facing blame. Convinced, Ying Xing Ran assembled all the disciples.
He declared that the sect faced an existential threat from the Profound Heaven Alliance and Eight Extremes Temple, who demanded surrender by daybreak or threatened a massacre. Admitting his inability to represent the entire sect, he ultimately ceded the decision of whether to fight or yield to all the disciples, leaving everyone in stunned silence.
Episode 18 Recap
Ying Xing Ran, the Sect Master of Artefact Forging Sect, declared that he could not make decisions for the entire sect. He proposed that disciples choose their own path: those willing to surrender could remain still, while those who would fight to the death should step forward. He then announced that any disciple wishing to surrender was free to leave, and no one would stop them.
After the disciples who chose to fight stepped forward, Ying Xing Ran expressed his inadequacy in protecting everyone. He then revealed his decision to hand over the Sect Master position to Qin Lie, praising him as a talented individual who had lighted eleven Spiritual Lines Pillars, possessed courage and wisdom, and had the aid of a powerful ally. A chorus of "We'll never surrender!" erupted from the gathered disciples.
Meanwhile, the leaders of the Profound Heaven Alliance, Song Yu, and the Eight Extremes Temple, Xie Yi, discussed their next move. Xie Yi was eager to attack immediately, while Song Yu insisted on waiting until dawn. Xie Yi, though preferring to attack, grudgingly conceded, stating that Song Yu's life was miserable enough after losing his wife.
Inside Artefact Forging Sect, Qin Lie was surprised by his sudden elevation to Sect Master, expressing that he would only temporarily hold the position and relinquish it once the crisis was resolved. Du Shao Yang challenged him, suggesting he was merely pretending disinterest in a coveted position, to which Qin Lie retorted that the Sect Master's seat was not the ultimate power.
As the sun began to rise, the Blood Progenitor suggested using the Spiritual Lines Pillars to form a sealing array. However, he noted that Qin Lie's cultivation was insufficient for such an ancient formation, calling him a "useless junk" since one needed to be at least in the Fragmentation Realm to begin. Qin Lie declared his preference for a strategic fight over a foolish death.
Elder Mo Hai then proposed a plan: he needed a day to refine artifacts using the secret recipe for the Terminator Profound Bomb, and he asked Qin Lie to buy him that time. Returning to the cave, Qin Lie learned that Ling Yushi and Song Tingyu had orchestrated his ascent to Sect Master.
Ling Yushi confessed to releasing Song Tingyu and planning for Qin Lie to become the master, arguing that Ying Xing Ran would have surrendered, making Qin Lie a traitor if he opposed him. Qin Lie, annoyed by their secretive plans, was then urged by Xie Jingxuan to attend to urgent sect matters. Xie Jingxuan stayed behind to bid farewell to Du Shao Yang.
Du Shao Yang was heartbroken by Xie Jingxuan’s decision to leave and find an external solution, fearing they might never meet again. He suspected she was leaving because her father, Xie Yi, was present and she didn't want to implicate Du Shao Yang. Xie Jingxuan, however, insisted she was genuinely going to seek a solution. After Du Shao Yang left, Song Tingyu emerged, giving Xie Jingxuan the Profound Heaven Badge, which would grant her access to Song Yu.
Song Tingyu affirmed her commitment to stay and protect Qin Lie, revealing her affection for him. Xie Jingxuan then went to Song Yu, presenting the badge and reminding him of the Venerable's 700-year-old warning against harming Artefact Forging Sect. Song Yu, having tried unsuccessfully to contact the Venerable himself, reluctantly agreed to let Xie Jingxuan attempt to do so, but stated he would not halt the attack on Artefact Forging Sect until she succeeded.
Thus, Xie Jingxuan began her desperate efforts to find a solution. Qin Lie sent a messenger to Song Yu, feigning a plea for more time to persuade Artefact Forging Sect disciples to surrender to the Profound Heaven Alliance, thereby gaining a day for Mo Hai. Song Yu agreed, but Xie Yi, whom Song Yu deemed an "unpredictable lunatic," refused to wait.
He planned to attack personally within two hours, expressing his desire to witness the power of the Terminator Profound Bomb. Song Tingyu, aware of Xie Yi's intentions, immediately sought out Qin Lie. She warned him that Xie Yi would not honor Song Yu's promise for a delay and would target Elder Mo Hai. She explained that only Zhan Tian Yi could contend with Commander Feng Rong, who was guarding Mo Hai.
As she could not expose herself, she urged Qin Lie to act. Qin Lie promptly left to intervene. At the cave, Mo Hai was busy with his refining, while Feng Rong stood guard. Feng Rong, not in her battle armor, asserted her ability to protect their home, and they shared a tender moment, dreaming of a future where they could freely explore the Spirit Realm and enjoy braised meat after the war. Suddenly, Zhan Tian Yi attacked.
Feng Rong, despite her bravery, was no match for him and was soon defeated and captured. Zhan Tian Yi mocked Qin Lie's Manifestation Realm cultivation and prepared to kill him. To save Feng Rong, Mo Hai offered the Terminator Profound Bomb. As Zhan Tian Yi reached for it, Qin Lie, having arrived just in time, unleashed a powerful lightning strike, binding Zhan Tian Yi's hands and allowing Mo Hai to reclaim the bomb.
Mo Hai then detonated the Terminator Profound Bomb, obliterating Zhan Tian Yi. Despite their victory, Feng Rong succumbed to her injuries, dying in Mo Hai's arms while urging him to take care of himself, not to forget to eat, and to continue cultivating so he wouldn't grow old. Meanwhile, Xie Yi and his forces launched their assault on Artefact Forging Sect. The Bloody Spear Guard engaged them but were easily overpowered by Xie Yi's immense strength.
Qin Lie confronted Xie Yi, using his essence of frost to temporarily resist. With no other option, Qin Lie instructed Lang Xie to lead Xie Yi to the Spiritual Lines Pillars Plaza, intending to use the twelve pillars to form a sealing array against him, despite the Blood Progenitor's warning that he was not powerful enough. Qin Lie, desperate, declared he would go "all out." He ordered the Bloody Spear Guard to retreat if he succeeded.
As Qin Lie attempted to activate the formation, the immense energy instead tore open a Nether Passageway beneath the Spiritual Lines Hall, unleashing a torrent of demon aura and countless nether beasts. The horrifying spectacle sent everyone fleeing in panic. Qin Lie, overwhelmed, was sucked into the passageway. Ling Yushi and Song Tingyu, in an attempt to save him, followed.
Song Tingyu, using her Flowing Cloud Rainbow Butterfly, managed to escape the immediate plunge and threw Demon Cleansing Pills to Qin Lie and Ling Yushi for protection against the invading demon aura. The demon aura began to spread, reaching Gao Yu and infecting him.
Back at the sect, the full extent of the calamity became clear: the twelve Spiritual Lines Pillars had secretly sealed the Nether Passageway, a fact known to the Venerable seven hundred years ago, hence his warning against interfering with Artefact Forging Sect. Lang Xie, witnessing the chaos and the infection of the five great sects' men, furiously condemned them and the alliances for causing this disaster. Cheng Ping, another elder, blamed Qin Lie for removing the pillars.
With Qin Lie, Ling Yushi, and Song Tingyu lost in the passageway, the Artefact Forging Sect was left without a leader. As Ying Xing Ran frantically searched for Mo Hai and Feng Rong, Mo Hai appeared in the main hall, cradling Feng Rong's lifeless body, a somber testament to the heavy casualties suffered by the sect and the broader contamination of the allied forces. A new era of widespread chaos had just begun.
Episode 19 Recap
The Artefact Forging Sect was engulfed in demon aura. Lian Rou, noting the pervasive demon aura in the dungeon, gave Yiyuan a Demon Cleansing Pill, explaining its temporary efficacy. She told him that the sect master had ordered a retreat and they needed to leave quickly. Qin Lie and two others had fallen into the Nether Realm, and the demon ring on Song Tingyu's body detached and returned to Gao Yu's hands.
Elsewhere, Qin Shan observed the unfolding chaos from a mysterious space. He expressed frustration with Gong Mu Shan for not fully disclosing information seven hundred years ago about "not meddling with the Artefact Forging Sect" and its hidden danger, leading to the current predicament. Qin Shan explained that "the time hadn't come back then" to reveal the truth, but now it has, which is why he allowed his grandson, Qin Lie, to pull out the spiritual pattern pillars.
He understood the greater purpose, sensing the imminent return of the God Race and the Spirit Realm becoming a battlefield again. He felt that arrangements needed to be made proactively. Despite acknowledging the extreme risks and the possibility of unforeseen problems, Qin Shan remained firm, stating that as long as the main objective was achieved, any sacrifice was acceptable.
When questioned if he feared his grandson, Qin Lie, who had fallen into the Nether Realm, might be consumed by nether beasts, Qin Shan simply replied, "Good fall." He then summoned his divine beast, Mang Wang, sending it towards Qin Lie's location. Amidst the chaos, Ying Xing Ran, exasperated by Xie Yi's actions, sought out Song Yu.
People were saying that Alliance Leader Song was a coward, but Xie Yi arrived, immediately kneeling and apologizing profusely for his recklessness and belligerence that caused such a disaster. He expressed deep regret and offered the Eight Extremes Temple to Song Yu. Song Yu, acknowledging Xie Yi's submission, accepted his apology and urged him to rise, noting that with Xie Yi kneeling, there was nothing he could do.
Song Yu himself then lamented that the ancient Venerable's warning seven hundred years ago about not interfering with the Artefact Forging Sect was due to the nether passageway beneath the Spiritual Pattern Hall, which the Venerable had intended to seal with the twelve spiritual pillars. He lamented that the Venerable hadn't revealed the truth then, leading to the current catastrophe.
Song Yu also admitted that he bore responsibility for the attack on the Artefact Forging Sect by initially wanting to control them, and also blamed the Venerable for not explaining the situation properly. Ying Xing Ran emphasized that the open nether passageway was a threat to the entire Chilan Continent, not just the Artefact Forging Sect, and urged everyone to set aside their differences and unite against the common enemy.
He also mentioned that Qin Lie, the current sect master, had unfortunately fallen into the Abyss and his fate was unknown. Ying Xing Ran distributed Demon Cleansing Pills, explaining they would temporarily resist the demon aura if refined and absorbed. He also instructed everyone to plant Demon Cleansing Grass around Firetop Mountain to contain the demon aura and eliminate any escaped nether beasts.
Song Yu pledged the Profound Heaven Alliance and Eight Extremes Temple's full support, noting the Horned Demon Tribe army might attack at any time. Ying Xing Ran then mentioned that Mo Hai, the sect's greatest asset for crafting defensive artifacts, was currently unable to work due to the recent murder of his wife, Feng Rong, and stated the matter of her killer would not be pursued for now.
He then confronted Song Yu about Song Tingyu's presence in the Artefact Forging Sect and her subsequent fall into the Abyss with Qin Lie, pressing him on how he planned to rescue her. Song Yu's brow furrowed in concern. In the dim forest of the Abyss, Song Tingyu, wary of the strange flickering glow, called out, which attracted several Horned Demon Tribe warriors.
Injured during the ensuing fight, she was aided by Qin Lie, who used the essence of frost to help them escape the ambush. Qin Lie then desperately called out for Ling Yu Shi. He saw her and ran to her, but passed right through her, realizing he couldn't perceive her physically. Overcome with guilt for failing to protect her, Qin Lie was inconsolable.
Song Tingyu urged him to pull himself together, reminding him that the Abyss was as vast as the Chilan Continent, making a frantic search futile. She pointed out that if he found Ling Yu Shi but couldn't protect her from the Horned Demons, his grief would be useless. Song Tingyu then offered him two options: "First, pull yourself together. Kill our way out together once we find the exit.
Second, I'll kill you now, before you attract the attention of the Horned Demons and put me in danger." She revealed that despite being a Netherpassage Realm cultivator, she was vulnerable to the demon aura due to her injuries and having given Qin Lie her last Demon Cleansing Pill, whose blood had turned purple from the aura's invasion. Realizing the urgency, Qin Lie agreed to prioritize their escape.
Song Tingyu then produced a Thought Breaking Crystal, explaining it contained the Horned Demons' memories of the battle of Purple Mist Sea, which could guide them. She insisted Qin Lie absorb it while she stood guard, as her strength, though affected by the demon aura, was still greater, making her the safer choice for protection while he entered a selfless state. As Qin Lie and Song Tingyu departed, Ling Yu Shi watched them silently.
She recalled Song Tingyu seemingly more excellent than herself, which made her doubt if she was truly helpful to Qin Lie. She felt like an outsider, unable to catch up to them. Suddenly, Ling Yu Shi woke up, realizing she had been dreaming. Beside her was Chao Xi, a member of the Saint Race, who explained that Ling Yu Shi had been found unconscious in the underground forest and brought to her home in the Nightmare Valley.
Chao Xi clarified that what Ling Yu Shi had experienced was merely a reflection of reality projected by the Nightmare Crystal, activated by Qin Lie's subconscious calls. The crystal allowed her to briefly return to her loved one's side in a dream state.
Ling Yu Shi, still reeling from the dream and her perceived inadequacy compared to Song Tingyu, was told by Chao Xi, who noted her unusual purple hair and eyes, that her appearance was unlike that of humans and wondered if she was sick. Ling Yu Shi, recalling the demon aura, speculated it might be the cause, but Chao Xi stated that humans tainted by demon aura typically didn't look like that.
Ling Yu Shi then used her spiritual energy to conceal her distinctive features. Chao Xi offered to fetch her water, emphasizing its scarcity in the Abyss and the historical over-consumption of Nether Crystals in their realm, leading to eternal darkness. On the surface, Song Yu had deployed forces to guard the nether passageway's exit.
While no immediate attacks from the Nether Race occurred, a growing sense of foreboding permeated the air, with the strength of escaped nether beasts increasing, suggesting the Evil Tribe was regrouping for a large-scale attack. Yiyuan reported to Song Yu that all residents of Artefact City affected by the demon aura had been safely relocated and were receiving medical attention, while the city itself was being used as a temporary military camp for various sects.
He also reported that some escaped nether beasts were still at large, and had dispatched elite disciples to hunt them. The five sect masters, having only lost a finger, were recuperating under special care to prevent further conflict with the Artefact Forging Sect. Song Yu praised Yiyuan's diplomatic handling of the situation, affirming his choice for liaison.
He then inquired about Master Mo Hai's progress in crafting Terminator Profound Bombs, critical for resealing the passageway, and promised to provide whatever Mo Hai needed. Meanwhile, Lang Xie and Du Shao Yang discussed the political fallout. Lang Xie remarked that with Qin Lie's uncertain fate, Ying Xing Ran was likely to retain the sect leader position, having gained significant influence and respect from the Profound Heaven Alliance and Eight Extremes Temple.
Du Shao Yang, however, maintained a strong intuition that Qin Lie, having overcome many previous dangers, would return. Lang Xie observed that despite Du Shao Yang's stated wish for Qin Lie to die, his intuition suggested a deeper hope for Qin Lie's survival, implying their fates were inextricably linked. Amidst their discussion, Yiyuan arrived at the Artefact Forging Sect, asking for Lian Rou.
Episode 20 Recap
Mo Hai focused intently on refining the Terminator Profound Bomb. When Lian Rou relayed a message from Yiyuan on behalf of Alliance Leader Song and Saint Master Xie, Mo Hai responded coldly, telling Lian Rou to have Yiyuan relay a message to Xie Yi, his tone filled with hostility. Although troubled by this, Yiyuan dutifully returned to Profound Heaven Alliance.
On his way, Du Shaoyang stopped Yiyuan and discreetly asked for help finding Xie Jingxuan's whereabouts, stressing the importance of secrecy. Yiyuan teasingly asked if Du Shaoyang admired her, but Du Shaoyang swiftly dismissed the question. At the Spiritual Lines Pillars Plaza, Song Siyuan, a representative from the human side, warned the Horned Demon Tribe.
However, the Horned Demon leaders, Ku Luo and Ku Lu, voiced their deep resentment, questioning why humans enjoyed life under the sun while their tribe suffered in the dark, damp underground, without clean water, good food, or warmth. They claimed these rightful conditions were stolen by humans who drove them away and killed their people. Song Siyuan accused them of twisting facts and demanded their retreat, threatening the extermination of the Nether Tribe if they insisted on war.
The Horned Demons defiantly declared "Fight!" and prepared to charge. Just as battle was about to erupt, a thick, dangerous fog suddenly appeared. As the black mist dissipated, Gao Yu's face emerged before the stunned crowd. Meanwhile, in the Netherworld underground, Zhao Xi provided Qin Yushi with disguised clothing to help her pass checkpoints and leave. Zhao Xi explained that in their harsh environment, sickness was common, and people often covered their faces to avoid scaring children.
She assured Qin Yushi that the Sky Ladder led to the surface, where human strongholds might lift the blockade if they saw her. Zhao Xi instructed Qin Yushi to stay close and let her handle any inquiries. Qin Yushi wondered if Zhao Xi would regret saving her, as she might have to fight Zhao Xi's people upon returning.
Zhao Xi confessed that she couldn't bring herself to kill Qin Yushi or turn her in for reward, suggesting that the "evil race" wasn't as bad as humans believed, with differences merely stemming from conflicting goals and standpoints. Qin Yushi promised to spare any Netherworld race members who had not harmed humans. At a checkpoint, Zhao Xi cleverly feigned that Qin Yushi was her gravely ill sister suffering from abscesses, securing an extra cup of water from a sympathetic guard.
After they had passed the checkpoint and returned to the underground forest, Qin Yushi removed her mask, coughing. Zhao Xi expressed concern, but Qin Yushi was puzzled, noticing no discomfort despite inhaling so much Netherworld demonic energy. Zhao Xi mused that Qin Yushi might be of the Nether Tribe, recalling a priestess's tale that their ancestors, before coming to the Abyss, were handsome and beautiful, the noblest race in the entire Star Realm.
Qin Yushi, only familiar with the Chilan Continent and Spirit Realm, found the concept of a "Star Realm" alien, but she couldn't confidently deny the hidden secrets she sensed within herself. Zhao Xi speculated that the priestess might have been making things up, but Qin Yushi believed a secret was indeed hidden, destined to be revealed soon, potentially changing everything, including her relationship with Qin Lie. Qin Yushi declared she was not afraid and would face whatever came.
Yiyuan reported back to Du Shaoyang that he had found no trace of Xie Jingxuan, leaving Du Shaoyang deeply disheartened and wondering if she was dead. Lang Xie, patrolling by, interrupted them. Du Shaoyang explained they were discussing the Horned Demon Tribe's sudden halt of their attack. Lang Xie elaborated that after the mysterious man, Gao Yu, appeared and was worshipped as a Holy God by the Horned Demons, he returned to the Abyss with their commander.
The two sides had been in a standoff for a day and a night, seemingly awaiting further instructions. Lang Xie worried about the prolonged exposure to demonic energy and the dwindling supply of Demon Purifying Grass. He then instructed Yiyuan to inquire about Mo Hai's progress on the Terminator Profound Bomb and the remaining supply of Demon Purifying Grass. Lang Xie then told a weary Du Shaoyang to get some sleep, or he would throw him into the Abyss.
Haunted by Xie Jingxuan's parting words—"You have to take your own path. . . If you miss me, remember, I'll be waiting for you in the pavilion by the lake"—Du Shaoyang rushed to the pavilion, calling out her name. The empty lake under the solitary moon shattered his hopes, leaving him feeling foolish.
Nearby, hidden under a peach tree, Xie Jingxuan watched Du Shaoyang, her heart heavy with both emotion and sorrow, lamenting their inability to be honest with each other despite their mutual love. Beneath the Mountains of Evil God, Gao Yu led the Horned Demon Tribe. Qin Lie and Song Tingyu, also disguised among the Horned Demons, followed. The sight of a priestess and her attendants stirred Song Tingyu's caution. Zhao Xi and Qin Yushi also arrived, equally curious.
Gao Yu soon appeared, hailed as a Holy God by the Horned Demons, as the priestess declared he was the son of Holy God Luolin, whose Holy God Ring had found its host. The priestess declared that if Holy God Luolin's son absorbed all the gifts from the Holy God altar, their tribe would once again have a Holy God. Sensing immense danger, Qin Lie and Song Tingyu attempted to leave.
However, after only two steps, Qin Lie felt an irresistible pull. The divine beast Mangwang, left by Qin Shan, manifested its true form and whisked Qin Lie away to a thunder pool. There, Qin Lie realized he was facing Xue Li, who revealed he had been secretly protecting Qin Lie since his fall into the Abyss.
Xue Li explained that Mangwang, the "little thing" that had entered Qin Lie's body, was beneficial and had brought him to the thunder pool, which contained the true core of thunderbolt. Acknowledging Qin Lie's mastery of the essence of frost, Xue Li urged him to absorb and grasp the essence of thunderbolt for great gains. Tempted by the prospect of advancing his cultivation, Qin Lie prepared, and Xue Li forcefully pushed him into the thunder pool.
Qin Lie writhed in agony under the immense pressure of the lightning. Qin Yushi and Song Tingyu arrived, bewildered by Qin Lie's sudden predicament. Xue Li warned Qin Lie that giving up now would not only undo all his efforts but also lead to mental deviation. He instructed Qin Lie to focus solely on refining the thunderbolt essence, promising to protect him. Qin Yushi prevented Song Tingyu from approaching, both of them confused about Qin Lie's fate.
Suddenly, Qin Lie appeared on the altar, his spiritual power transformed into a massive ice beast. It lunged at Gao Yu, who now embodied a flame evil god. After a series of fierce exchanges, Qin Lie lifted Gao Yu, preparing a decisive blow, but Gao Yu dissolved into a wisp of black mist and vanished. Xue Li then appeared behind Qin Lie, sighing that his current abilities were insufficient to eliminate Gao Yu, forcing them to retreat.
Observing Qin Lie's extraordinary display of power, the priestess seemed to gain some insight. She approached the altar and directly asked Qin Lie if he knew Qin Shan. Qin Lie was stunned and excited that a member of the Horned Demon Tribe knew his grandfather. He confirmed Qin Shan was his grandfather, but when asked for proof, he mentioned an orb in his head.
The priestess recognized it as the Soul Suppressing Orb, confirming it belonged to "Qin Shan, our benefactor." Qin Lie was perplexed, wondering how his human grandfather could be a benefactor to the "evil race." The priestess explained Qin Shan's great kindness to their holy race and stated she would allow them to leave as a gesture of repayment.
She refused to divulge more, citing forbidden heavenly secrets, and warned them that after three horn blasts, if they remained, they would be killed. Despite Qin Lie's pleas for more information, the priestess insisted they leave. She then forcefully teleported Qin Lie, Song Tingyu, and Qin Yushi back to the Netherworld underground, the gateway to the human realm. Zhao Xi, who had been secretly following Qin Yushi to protect her, was also unexpectedly caught in the teleportation.
Realizing Qin Lie and the others were about to return to the human realm, Zhao Xi bid a heartfelt farewell to Qin Yushi. She offered Qin Yushi a Netherworld Demonic Fruit, asking her to place it under the sun and gently call her name, so Zhao Xi might feel the sun's warmth after her death. She expressed contentment that she would be with the sun.
However, as they passed each other, Zhao Xi suddenly drew a dark blade and stabbed Song Tingyu. Song Tingyu, having sensed Zhao Xi's murderous intent, swiftly counterattacked. Gravely wounded, Zhao Xi collapsed into Qin Yushi's arms. With her dying breath, Zhao Xi explained that upon hearing Qin Yushi call her "Song Tingyu," she recognized her as Saintess Song of the Profound Heaven Alliance—the one responsible for killing her tribe members and her own father during the demon wars.
Zhao Xi expressed no regret for her actions, finding peace in her act of vengeance, and died in Qin Yushi's arms. Qin Lie asked Song Tingyu why she had struck Zhao Xi. Song Tingyu explained that Zhao Xi's eyes had shown clear killing intent, and her target was either Qin Lie or herself, not Qin Yushi, necessitating her swift action. Qin Yushi and Qin Lie grieved Zhao Xi's passing.
Song Tingyu's injury, however, worsened rapidly, infected by the Netherworld demonic energy, causing her lips to turn purple. Sensing her impending end, Song Tingyu decided to unburden her heart to Qin Lie. After subtly sending Qin Yushi away, Song Tingyu spoke to Qin Lie about Gong Mulie, whom Qin Lie knew was her beloved.
Song Tingyu revealed that during the Luminous Pillars battle at Xingyun Pavilion, she had seen Gong Mulie's true form, and he had looked exactly like Qin Lie. She declared that Qin Lie had always been the one who occupied her thoughts and heart. Qin Lie listened, feeling a growing sense of confusion. Song Tingyu further elaborated that she was certain it was Gong Mulie who had prevented the destruction of Icestone City during the Luminous Pillars activation.
Since only Qin Lie and Du Shaoyang were present at that time, she was convinced that Qin Lie was indeed Gong Mulie. Qin Lie tried to deny it, saying she was mistaken, but Song Tingyu insisted that from that day forward, she had sought Gong Mulie's essence within him. Over time, she found herself unable to distinguish who truly held her heart. She admitted feeling secure carrying Gong Mulie's book, just as she now felt safe by Qin Lie's side.
Aware of Qin Lie's feelings for Qin Yushi, Song Tingyu confessed her inability to hold on much longer, believing she was destined to die there. In her final moments, she asked if she could consider him Gong Mulie.
Episode 21 Recap
Song Tingyu felt her condition deteriorating rapidly, only able to recall her beloved Gong Mulie by focusing on Qin Lie's face. Ling Yushi approached her, provoking Song Tingyu with a challenge: if Song Tingyu were to die, Ling Yushi declared she would claim both Qin Lie and Gong Mulie for herself. This provocative statement ignited a fierce will to survive in Song Tingyu. Seeing Song Tingyu finally rally, Qin Lie carried her, and the three pressed on toward the exit.
As a major enemy approached, all residents infected with demon aura were housed in the Pu Ci Residence. Xie Jingxuan was hiding amongst them. When Du Shaoyang arrived to deliver medicine, his superior, Lang Xie, pulled him aside. Lang Xie revealed that Mo He's Terminator Profound Bombs were nearing completion, signaling an imminent war with the Dark Nether Race.
Fearing heavy losses, Lang Xie instructed Du Shaoyang to find a way to escape alive if they were defeated, so that he might one day reestablish the Bloody Spear Guard. After his conversation, Du Shaoyang finished his duties and left. Xie Jingxuan, seeing her beloved, suppressed her desire to reveal herself, instead remaining hidden within the shelter.
Nearby, Xie Yi, on patrol, attempted to enter the Pu Ci Residence but was denied by guards who explained that no one could enter without the master's orders due to the infected residents. As Xie Yi was about to leave, he heard a faint sound, thinking it was his daughter's voice, but dismissed it as impossible, believing her to be dead. Qin Lie, Song Tingyu, and Ling Yushi finally emerged from the Nether passageway.
Alarmed, the guards at the exit were quickly told by Qin Lie that he was from Lin Borough and that Saintess Song needed immediate help. Upon recognizing Song Tingyu, they quickly offered assistance, with some also noticing a faint purple aura emanating from Ling Yushi. However, before they could fully appreciate their return to Chilan Continent, a storm gathered.
Ling Yushi asked Qin Lie what was wrong, and Song Tingyu realized Qin Lie's Natal Opening Realm was complete, and he was on the verge of breaking through to the pinnacle of the Manifestation Realm. She urged them all to leave, warning that the coming Heavenly Thunder would be even more powerful than the Thunder of the Ninth Heaven that had killed Soul Reaping Beasts.
Qin Lie endured the immense pressure of the thunderclouds swirling overhead, roaring as he pushed through his breakthrough. Physicians diagnosed Song Tingyu, concluding that only someone proficient in the Dark Nether Race's cultivation arts could absorb the demon aura from her body, a seemingly impossible task given the centuries of conflict. When asked how long Song Tingyu had, the physician grimly stated they would see if she could survive the night.
Qin Lie immediately arranged to inform the Profound Heaven Alliance. While unconscious, Song Tingyu tightly gripped Qin Lie's hand, mistaking him for Gong Mulie. She warned him not to go to the Mother of Land, claiming it would kill him, and expressed her reluctance that he would go to "her" despite their shared upbringing. Qin Lie tried to clarify he was Qin Lie, to which Song Tingyu responded, "Qin Lie? Have you not awakened? Don't go against Song Yu.
Please don't do it." Ling Yushi pondered if Song Tingyu's strange words about the Mother of Land and the son of the God of War related to Qin Lie's true background, similar to her own mysterious past. Qin Lie, however, dismissed these theories as ridiculous and urged Ling Yushi to care for Song Tingyu while he sought a solution.
Qin Lie then sought out Xue Li, who, having recovered his physical body after Qin Lie comprehended the final Spiritual Lines Pillar, announced his departure to the Heavenly Armament Sect in the Land of Chaos to find his family. Xue Li, believing Song Tingyu's fate was in her own hands, advised Qin Lie to collect the Spiritual Lines Pillars.
He explained that these pillars, originally belonging to the Heavenly Armament Sect, were now like Qin Lie's children, and he could collect them as he wished, despite Qin Lie's confusion about how to handle their immense size. Xue Li bid him farewell, urging him to take care. Meanwhile, Ling Yushi helped Song Tingyu by absorbing all the demon aura from her body.
To Ling Yushi's astonishment, the demon aura, which was lethal to Song Tingyu, made her feel invigorated and refreshed. This strange reaction made Ling Yushi question her own identity, pondering if she was truly of the Royal Nether Race. She reflected on her own changes since cultivating the Heavenly Water Spirit Record, including increased sensitivity to evil energy and her hair and eyes sometimes turning purple, a fact she had previously concealed from Qin Lie to avoid worrying him.
Song Tingyu eventually awakened, completely unaware of the strange things she had said or her dream. She vaguely recalled a vivid dream of the Mirror Realm, where Gong Mulie would walk by a clear lake, watching sunrises and resting under the moonlight, always accompanied by a girl whose face she couldn't see. She assumed this was merely a figment of her "Tale of Gong Mulie" fantasies. With Song Tingyu fully recovered, everyone rejoiced at this "miracle."
The three decided to use a Golden Fire Cloud Canvas to swiftly return to the Artefact Forging Sect to aid in repelling the Dark Nether Race. Xie Yi returned to the Pu Ci Residence, causing a scene at the entrance, calling out for his "dead" daughter. Xie Jingxuan, hearing her father's cries, quickly donned a soldier's uniform to disguise herself and attempted to escape.
Xie Yi's commotion also attracted Du Shaoyang, who, upon recognizing Xie Jingxuan despite her disguise, immediately intervened and engaged her in conversation, respectfully addressing her as 'Saint Lord.' Du Shaoyang’s actions and feigned conversation distracted Xie Yi long enough for the disguised Xie Jingxuan to slip away unnoticed. Xie Yi later realized Du Shaoyang’s actions had provided cover for his daughter's escape. Xie Jingxuan and Du Shaoyang later reunited by the lake.
They embraced tightly, expressing their deep longing for each other. Xie Jingxuan explained her desperate flight, fearing her father would turn her into a heartless servant, much like his bodyguard, Mo He. She described heartless servants as retaining their power but losing all thought and emotion, becoming mere automatons utterly obedient to their commander, with no cure except from the commander himself.
She emphasized that she could not stay, as it would endanger Du Shaoyang, and even in death, her body would incriminate him, asking him to promise to destroy her remains should she perish. She then wished to "fall asleep, lying in your arms, and take an eternal nap." Du Shaoyang was devastated by her words.
Suddenly, Xie Yi appeared behind them, mocking their "bitter" romance and chastising Du Shaoyang for his "chicken-hearted" nature, questioning his fitness to be a Bloody Spear successor. He revealed he had known all along that Xie Jingxuan, whom he called Tang Si Qi, was alive and faking her death, having waited for her to emerge from the warehouse and then lured her out, even suspecting they were secretly engaged.
Du Shaoyang, enraged, prepared to fight, but Xie Yi easily struck him down, causing him to spit blood. Heartbroken, Xie Jingxuan knelt and begged her father to spare Du Shaoyang, taking all blame upon herself. Xie Yi declared he would spare Du Shaoyang but not her. He then effortlessly extracted Xie Jingxuan's soul before Du Shaoyang's horrified eyes, transforming her into a vacant heartless servant.
As Qin Lie, Song Tingyu, and Ling Yushi traveled on the Golden Fire Cloud Canvas, they noticed a strange transformation in the landscape below. Qin Lie's Thunderbolt Formation, which he used for cultivation, had been converted into a Teleportation Formation by the Dark Nether Race using Nightmare Crystals. Song Tingyu explained that the Dark Nether Beasts had used these crystals and sacrificed their lives to power the formation.
Puzzled by how to activate it, their attention was drawn to a mysterious array diagram that emitted a powerful spiritual aura, preventing ordinary individuals from opening it. Qin Lie, utilizing his exceptional spiritual power, attempted to perceive its secrets. He unexpectedly heard a voice mentioning the Royal Nether Race and the Scripture of the Nine Hells, their sacred text, also revealing that the sage seeking it was human, but paradoxically, helping the enemy.
He learned that the Scripture was the source of all secret powers in the Nether Realm, and finding its first volume signified the awakening of the Royal Nether Race bloodline. Ling Yushi, drawn by an inexplicable connection, approached the diagram. To their surprise, she inadvertently activated it, revealing the first volume of the Scripture of the Nine Hells.
Song Tingyu swiftly snatched the Scripture, revealing that she had been secretly observing Ling Yushi ever since their descent into the Nether Abyss, particularly noting her unusual reaction while absorbing the demon aura. Now, with the Scripture recognizing Ling Yushi as its master, Song Tingyu declared her strong suspicion that Ling Yushi was indeed of the Royal Nether Race.
Ling Yushi, unflustered, calmly admitted her own growing suspicions, acknowledging that she had absorbed the demon aura without ill effect and felt a deep connection to the evil energy. She confirmed that her hair and eyes sometimes turned purple and expressed her desire to uncover her true identity. Qin Lie, seeing Ling Yushi's openness, asked Song Tingyu not to report this matter to Song Yu.
Song Tingyu agreed, on the condition that she retain possession of the Scripture of the Nine Hells. With this understanding, the three proceeded to the Spiritual Lines Pillars Plaza. Upon their arrival at the Artefact Forging Sect aboard the Golden Fire Cloud Canvas, the Dark Nether Race invaders looked up at Qin Lie, Song Tingyu, and Ling Yushi with apprehensive frowns. Qin Lie, remembering Xue Li's advice, silently collected all twelve Spiritual Lines Pillars into his storage.
Episode 22 Recap
Upon arriving at the Artefact Forging Sect, Qin Lie collected the twelve Spiritual Lines Pillars. Soon after, Ying Xing Ran and Lang Xie confronted Qin Lie, demanding he return the pillars. Qin Lie asserted that the Spiritual Lines Pillars rightfully belonged to the Artefact Forging Sect, not to them.
Ying Xing Ran (or his representative), speaking on behalf of Chief Song, declared that Qin Lie was no longer the sect master and the position had been transferred to Ying Xing Ran. Qin Lie dismissed their claims, countering that they had already sided with the Profound Heaven Alliance. He challenged them to take the pillars if they could, stating he had more pressing matters. Ying Xing Ran then appealed to Saintess Song Tingyu for justice.
Song Tingyu, however, declined to intervene in their internal dispute and instead inquired about Jiu Liu Yu of the Qisha Valley, learning that he had been assassinated the previous night. Considering Jiu Liu Yu’s suspicious death, Qin Lie and Ling Yushi speculated that the true target of the assassination might have been Ling Yushi, as someone wished to conceal her true identity. Ling Yushi suggested seeking information from Li Zhong Zheng, who remained at Qisha Valley.
Meanwhile, Song Tingyu announced her intention to report the portal situation to her father, Song Yu, and warned Qin Lie and Ling Yushi against any escape attempts, threatening to expose Ling Yushi’s secret if they defied her. Song Tingyu later informed Song Yu about the portal found at Ling Borough’s herb mountain and the Scripture of the Nine Hells. She also pressed him for information about the Royal Nether Race.
Song Yu briefly mentioned the Bò Tiān Race, which called itself the God Race, in relation to the Royal Nether Race, but then dismissed her deeper inquiries, chastising her for her "obsession" with Gong Mu Lie's legends and for bringing shame upon the Profound Heaven Alliance during her time in the Abyss. He then commanded Song Tingyu to recruit Qin Lie into the Alliance or eliminate him if he refused.
Back in their temporary residence, Ling Yushi gently urged Qin Lie to visit Master Mo Hai, who was grieving and busy forging artifacts, suggesting he might offer assistance. Qin Lie, worried about leaving Ling Yushi alone with Song Tingyu, expressed his reluctance and his distrust of Song Tingyu, whom he perceived as manipulative despite Ling Yushi's belief that Song Tingyu held affection for him.
Qin Lie apologized for his past oversight, acknowledging his failure to notice her immunity to the demon aura during their time underground. He pledged his unwavering loyalty and protection to Ling Yushi, declaring that he would oppose anyone, even the entire Chilan Continent, if they became her enemy. Ling Yushi, touched by his words, reiterated her desire for peace between races and insisted he go to Mo Hai while she rested.
After Qin Lie left to meet Mo Hai, Ling Yushi, alone, recalled Zhao Xi’s words about the Dark Nether Race not being inherently evil. She placed the Nether Devil Grass, a spiritual herb Zhao Xi had given her, under the sunlight and softly called out his name, as he had instructed, causing the herb to glow brilliantly, like Zhao Xi's smile. Soon after, Song Tingyu entered Ling Yushi's room, remarking on Ling Yushi's bond with Zhao Xi.
She recounted her own encounters with the Dark Nether Race, whom she described as cruel murderers, contrasting them with Ling Yushi’s view that they were a kind people who desired peace. Ling Yushi argued that no race was absolutely good or evil, and that conflicts often turned even good into evil. Song Tingyu then directly asked if Ling Yushi, if she were of the Royal Nether Race, would ally with the Dark Nether Race against humanity.
Ling Yushi admitted to wishing she possessed the power to reconcile the two races’ long-standing animosity. Song Tingyu then revealed that Master Mo Hai had secretly forged numerous Terminator Profound Bombs and that her father, Song Yu, intended to launch a full-scale attack on the Dark Nether Race the following morning, celebrating his impending victory with a feast that night.
Disturbed by the news, Ling Yushi secretly went to the artifact forging field that night to steal the Terminator Profound Bombs, hoping to prevent the imminent war. However, as she attempted to leave the courtyard, she was intercepted by Song Tingyu, Qin Lie, and Lang Xie. It was all a calculated trap set by Song Tingyu to confirm Ling Yushi's suspected allegiance to the Dark Nether Race.
Lang Xie, upon realizing Ling Yushi’s apparent betrayal, intended to execute her on the spot. But Ling Yushi's heartfelt plea for understanding, questioning the inherent right or wrong in either side of the conflict and recounting how she had been saved by the Dark Nether Race, gave him pause. She spoke of seeing the goodness in the Dark Nether Race, urging them to look beyond prejudice.
Although Qin Lie had been brought by Song Tingyu to witness Ling Yushi's actions, he understood her motivations stemmed from her kindness. Despite Song Tingyu's attempts to restrain Ling Yushi, Qin Lie defiantly used his space spiritual tools to break through all obstacles and escape with Ling Yushi to safety. Qin Lie and Ling Yushi found themselves in a desolate, icy landscape. Ling Yushi, now completely unburdened, reverted to her purple-hued form.
Qin Lie reaffirmed his devotion, assuring her that their racial differences did not matter to him. Ling Yushi, moved by his words, quickly remembered the safety of the Qisha Valley disciples and Ling Borough villagers. Using an aerial artifact Qin Lie had secretly forged earlier at the Artefact Forging Sect, they hastily departed for Qisha Valley.
Upon learning of Ling Yushi's strong likelihood of being of Royal Nether Race blood, Song Yu immediately dispatched Profound Heaven Alliance forces, led by Song Tingyu, to Qisha Valley to intercept her. Simultaneously, the Grand Priestess of the Dark Nether Race, sensing the awakening of Royal Nether Race bloodline, established a connection with Ling Yushi and set out to find the lost royalty.
When Qin Lie and Ling Yushi arrived at Qisha Valley, they were horrified to find Li Zhong Zheng, acting on orders from the Profound Heaven Alliance, leading Qisha Valley disciples in a massacre of the Ling Borough villagers. Witnessing the brutal death of her close friend, Ling Ying, Ling Yushi's emotions erupted, unleashing an uncontrollable power within her.
The ground trembled, cracks spread across the earth, houses ripped apart, and massive boulders fell from the sky, instantly crushing Li Zhong Zheng. The Dark Nether Race and Song Yu's forces, arriving shortly after, watched as Ling Yushi's power obliterated Qisha Valley. At that moment, the Scripture of the Nine Hells recognized Ling Yushi as its master, flying into her hand.
A message from a Nether Tribe Venerable activated, revealing ancient history: ten thousand years ago, the Nether Tribe and humanity were allies against the God Race. However, the Royal Nether Race perished in that war. The human race, growing ambitious, then drove the peaceful and benevolent Nether Tribe underground, where scarcity of resources transformed them into "monsters."
The Venerable had left his spiritual power in the Scripture of the Nine Hells to ensure the last of the Royal Nether Race bloodline understood this history. As Song Yu and Xie Yi prepared to attack the Dark Nether Race, Song Tingyu swiftly flew to Qin Lie's side, actively instructing him to take her hostage. This allowed Qin Lie, Ling Yushi, and the Dark Nether Race to escape.
Once back above the Abyss portal, the Grand Priestess, seeing the Scripture of the Nine Hells in Ling Yushi's hand, reverently hailed her as the Nether Queen. Ling Yushi, finally accepting her identity as the sole remaining Royal Nether Race bloodline and the "Mother of Earth"—the highest ruler of the Nether Tribe—pledged to lead her people back to a world of love and peace, free from war and hatred.
She declared a temporary truce on past grievances, but warned that if humanity should provoke them again, she would show no mercy. Regarding Song Tingyu, Ling Yushi, acknowledging Song Tingyu's earlier discreet assistance, decided to release her to avoid further bloodshed. She cautioned Song Tingyu that if she ever harbored murderous intentions again, they would meet as adversaries on the battlefield.
Qin Lie, for his part, passionately reiterated his unwavering loyalty to Ling Yushi, vowing to protect her against any foe, even her own people, declaring that she was the most important person to him after his grandfather. The Dark Nether Race, hearing his declaration, accepted his stance.
Episode 23 Recap
The five major sects now considered Qin Lie and Ling Yushi as enemies and spies. Ying Xing Ran and Song Yu were intensely discussing their recent battle with the Dark Nether Race when Song Siyuan rushed in to report Song Tingyu's return. Hearing that Song Tingyu had returned with Qin Lie to propose peace, Song Yu's expression became complicated. When Song Siyuan added that the Nether Queen Ling Yushi was not present, Song Yu grew even more suspicious.
Meanwhile, Ling Yushi was in a hall of the Artefact Forging Sect, observing the Nether Demonic Qi converging into her body, sensing her inner power growing stronger. Qin Lie and Song Tingyu entered the hall. Representing the Nether Tribe, Qin Lie proposed a peace negotiation to Song Yu, demonstrating sincerity by returning Song Tingyu unharmed. In return, Qin Lie demanded the release of Ku Lu.
He demanded that if Song Yu was serious about peace, he should send Du Shao Yang and Lang Xie to discuss terms. Song Yu, wary of Qin Lie's choice of envoys, agreed to only let Du Shao Yang deliver a message. He instructed Du Shao Yang to tell Qin Lie that Ku Lu would be exchanged for the Profound Yin Nine-Leaf Lotus from the Nether Tribe.
However, Du Shao Yang, motivated by his desire to help Xie Jingxuan, immediately relayed this information to Xie Yi. Xie Yi instantly deduced Song Yu's true intention: to use the Profound Yin Nine-Leaf Lotus to break through to the Nirvana Realm. Delighted by this intelligence, Xie Yi agreed to let Du Shao Yang see Xie Jingxuan.
Seeing Xie Jingxuan's emotionless state, Du Shao Yang, desperate to restore her to her former vibrant self, agreed to Xie Yi's condition: to give Xie Yi the Profound Yin Nine-Leaf Lotus intended for Song Yu in exchange for Xie Jingxuan's freedom. Qin Lie gazed at Ling Yushi as she absorbed the Nether Demonic Qi. Ling Yushi turned to him, surprisingly able to see his dream.
In the dream, a young Qin Lie was enraged, about to summon heavenly thunder, until a small girl appeared, calming him down and preventing the disaster. Waking from the dream, Qin Lie was puzzled by Ling Yushi's ability to see his dreams. She explained it was a result of cultivating the Scripture of the Nine Hells, which grants the power of the Mother of Earth to enter others' consciousness. The strange dream led them to recall past prophecies.
If Ling Yushi was the Mother of Earth, could Qin Lie be the son of the God of War? Qin Lie shook his head, questioning Gong Mulie's true nature. Just then, Song Tingyu, who was replacing Lang Xie in the negotiation, entered and explained the Gong Mu family's history: The Gong Mu family existed since the Spirit Realm's inception.
Gong Mulie, son of the God of War Gong Mu Hao, was peerless in the Spirit Realm and credited with restoring peace after the millennium-long war between humans and the God Race. He later sought higher realms and disappeared. He also had a childhood friend and mentor, Night Fairy. Ling Yushi listened intently, then quietly entered Song Tingyu's consciousness to verify her words. An outsider from the Profound Heaven Alliance requested an audience.
The three went out and met Du Shao Yang and his group. Du Shao Yang relayed Song Yu's demand for the Profound Yin Nine-Leaf Lotus. The Priestess explained that it was a Heaven Class spirit herb, found only in the Profound Yin Nether Sea, and one of the Nether's three great treasures, primarily used to help Fragmentation Realm cultivators ascend.
Ling Yushi readily agreed to the exchange, and they arranged to meet at High Mountain Summit outside the Artefact Forging Sect at noon the next day. Song Yu met Xie Yi and informed him of the successful negotiation. He then revealed the recently refined Terminator Profound Bombs, confirming his intention to eliminate the Dark Nether Race through a surprise attack.
Back in the hall, Qin Lie recalled Ling Yushi's previous attempt to probe Song Tingyu's mind, which resulted in a hostile reaction. He urged Ling Yushi not to try again, but she pointed out that their mysterious origins likely stemmed from the same story. To uncover the truth, Qin Lie allowed Ling Yushi to enter his mind to explore the Soul Suppressing Orb within him.
Upon entering Qin Lie's mind, Ling Yushi saw a child constrained and surrounded by three men. As she tried to approach, the men's spiritual energy attacked her, forcibly ejecting her from the dream, causing her to spit blood and collapse. Ling Yushi described her vision: four individuals, three men and a child, guarding the Orb. She recognized one of the men as Du Shao Yang, which made Qin Lie realize Du Shao Yang's inexplicable constant presence in his life.
However, Qin Lie, worried for Ling Yushi's safety, insisted she stop using this dangerous method to seek answers. The next day, Ling Yushi brought the Profound Yin Nine-Leaf Lotus to meet Song Yu for the exchange. After successfully trading the Lotus for Ku Lu, Ling Yushi attempted to broker a lasting peace for the future of both races, advocating for a return to peaceful coexistence, reminding him that human and nether ancestors once united against the God Race.
But unknown to her, at the Spiritual Lines Pillars Plaza within the Artefact Forging Sect, Song Yu had already joined forces with Xie Yi and others, using the Terminator Profound Bombs to attack the Dark Nether Race forces. Seeing explosions in the distance, Qin Lie and his companions realized Song Yu's deceit. Five major sects appeared, seeking vengeance for Qin Lie's past actions.
Song Tingyu bravely stood before Qin Lie's group, desperately buying them time to retreat, but Song Yu showed no mercy, even to his own daughter. To protect the Nether Queen, Ku Lu and Ku Luo used a secret spell, sacrificing their lives to hold off Song Yu. This allowed Qin Lie, Ling Yushi, and the Priestess to rush back to the Spiritual Lines Pillars Plaza, only to find it covered in bodies and the Nether passageway sealed.
With no escape, Song Yu's forces pursued them again. Qin Lie immediately used a spatial weapon to teleport himself, Ling Yushi, the Priestess, and the remaining few Dark Nether Race members away from the Artefact Forging Sect. Ying Xing Ran triumphantly returned to the Artefact Forging Sect's main hall, reclaiming his position as Sect Master, a smirk of satisfaction on his face.
Lang Xie, however, condemned Ying Xing Ran's betrayal, but Ying Xing Ran dismissed his words, now blinded by power. Meanwhile, Song Tingyu confronted Song Yu, announcing her intention to leave the Profound Heaven Alliance, disgusted by her father's treacherous and despicable methods. Song Yu accused her of being infatuated with Qin Lie, leading her to such a childish decision. Under his relentless questioning, Song Tingyu reluctantly admitted her feelings.
Ignoring her, Song Yu returned to his room and consumed the Profound Yin Nine-Leaf Lotus, but felt an unexpected strangeness within. Du Shao Yang handed over his Profound Yin Nine-Leaf Lotus, which Xie Yi used to restore Xie Jingxuan's consciousness. After absorbing the spirit herb, Xie Yi felt something amiss. Just then, Mo Hai entered the hall, revealing that Qin Lie, Du Shao Yang, and Mo Hai had conspired.
The Profound Yin Nine-Leaf Lotus given to Xie Yi was laced with a substance to turn him into a heartless servant. As for Song Yu's Lotus, Mo Hai feared that if Song Yu ascended, no one would be able to challenge him, so he used a powder to neutralize the spirit herb's power, rendering it useless. Xie Yi, who had been disdainful, watched helplessly as his spiritual consciousness detached from his body, truly becoming a heartless servant. Seeing Xie Yi's eyes grow blank, Mo Hai commanded him to kneel.
Episode 24 Recap
After Master Mo Hai commanded Xie Yi to kneel, Xie Yi, now a mindless servant, obediently knelt and slapped himself, apologizing repeatedly. Witnessing this, Master Mo Hai felt a sense of vindication, quietly speaking to the memory of his late companion, Rong'er, "I have avenged your death." Meanwhile, the furious Song Yu, having failed in his attempt to break through to a higher realm due to a drugged spiritual herb, demanded that Du Shao Yang be brought before him.
Du Shao Yang, worried about Xie Jingxuan's reaction to what he had done to her father, asked if she found his actions too cruel. Xie Jingxuan calmly retorted that he should ask those her father had harmed in the past if his actions were too cruel.
When Du Shao Yang suggested that Xie Jingxuan, as Xie Yi's only daughter, could now rightfully take over the Eight Extremes Temple Sanctuary, she declined, explaining that her power was not on par with Master Song Yu's. She feared she would end up like Song Tingyu if she tried to stand as an equal.
Hearing Song Tingyu's name, Master Mo Hai, foreseeing that Song Yu would soon discover the Xuan Yin Nine-Leaf Lotus he consumed was drugged, advised Du Shao Yang to take the initiative. Du Shao Yang then revealed that Song Tingyu had been imprisoned by Song Yu. Mo Hai proposed a plan: Du Shao Yang would claim that only Song Tingyu could locate Qin Lie, thereby securing Song Yu’s approval for Xie Jingxuan to rescue Song Tingyu.
Once Song Tingyu was free, Du Shao Yang would have someone impersonate her, flying south on a spiritual beast to draw away Song Yu's surveillance, while the real Song Tingyu would travel north. Song Tingyu, recalling Qin Lie’s mention of an ancient man-eating beast sealed in an ice-covered place in the far north, deduced that Qin Lie was likely there, at the Ten-Thousand-Year Ice Land.
She realized that opening a portal was their only way to survive the current predicament, and believed the Soul Suppressing Orb within Qin Lie's mind could be the key to activating it. Master Mo Hai then handed Song Tingyu his Ring of Space, which contained a space spirit stone, instructing her to give it to Qin Lie as a keepsake. He explained that since Rong'er was gone, there was nothing left for him in the Artefact Forging Sect.
Xie Jingxuan insisted on accompanying Song Tingyu to the portal, expressing her lack of trust in Du Shao Yang and her desire to ensure Song Tingyu's safe passage, leaving Du Shao Yang to proceed with the diversion alone. At the Ten-Thousand-Year Ice Land, Qin Lie felt an uncontrollable rage surge through him. A giant beast, Mang Wang, burst forth from the mark on the back of his neck.
Mang Wang introduced itself as a titan from an ancient race, frozen in the ice for millennia, and revealed that the other titans were also imprisoned nearby. It offered Qin Lie a deal: if Qin Lie released its people from the ice, they would devour all of Qin Lie's enemies. Qin Lie, consumed by hatred, was about to unleash his thunder arts to free the other titans, but Ling Yushi and Song Tingyu quickly intervened.
Ling Yushi bravely confronted Qin Lie, attempting to calm him. However, Qin Lie, completely lost to his rage, pushed her away, accusing her of betrayal. Song Tingyu then bravely tackled Qin Lie onto the snow, soothing him until his consciousness returned, and the violent glint in his eyes softened.
Ling Yushi, watching the interaction, recalled a dream of Qin Lie's where Song Tingyu was the one who calmed him, realizing that she was not the one destined to bring him peace. Once Qin Lie fully recovered, he banished Mang Wang. Their moment of respite was short-lived as Song Yu, accompanied by Du Shao Yang and others, arrived at the Frost Land aboard a fire cloud tent.
Yiyuan, attempting to speak in Qin Lie’s defense, was cruelly pushed off the tent by Song Yu, only to be rescued by Qin Lie. When Song Yu failed to persuade Qin Lie to submit, he launched a deadly attack, injuring Ling Yushi. Enraged once more, Qin Lie was about to unseal the other titans when Li Mu and Bu Li suddenly appeared.
Li Mu, revealing himself as the Sixth Sword Holder of Heavenly Sword Mountain, intervened, urging both sides to cease hostilities. Despite Song Yu’s insistence on killing Qin Lie, Li Mu effortlessly repelled his spiritual energy with a single palm, forcing Song Yu to retreat.
After Song Yu’s departure, Li Mu announced that the God Race would inevitably return, and seeing the Chilan Continent's self-important and infighting nature, he was seeking young talents to train in the Heavenly Calamity Continent to broaden their horizons. He extended an invitation, presenting them with Heavenly Sword Sect tokens. Qin Lie, Song Tingyu, and Xie Jingxuan accepted.
Ling Yushi, however, declined, stating her responsibility to her people as the Nether Queen to reorganize the Dark Nether Race and lead them back to their ancestral land. Qin Lie requested that Yiyuan and even Du Shao Yang accompany them. Yiyuan was overjoyed, but Du Shao Yang felt humiliated, viewing it as a mockery.
Bu Li, the Frost Master, opted to stay behind, citing the extreme heat of the Heavenly Calamity Continent and his duty to his own people, the snow wolves, to keep Mang Wang at bay. The priestess then led Ling Yushi and her remaining kin to the Thunder Array, where a portal could take them to their ancestral land, the Realm of Ruined Souls.
Before parting, Ling Yushi revealed to Qin Lie that Li Mu was one of the three men she saw inside the Soul Suppressing Orb. Qin Lie, growing increasingly bewildered by these revelations, then heard the priestess answer his earlier question about Qin Shan. She recounted how twenty years prior, Qin Shan had saved the Dark Nether Race from human capture at Purple Mist Sea.
He had also promised to open the nether passageway one day so they could return to their homeland. At that time, Qin Shan was holding a baby boy, instructing the priestess to help him if he ever faced danger, revealing the boy's name was Qin Lie. The pieces of Qin Lie's past slowly began to fall into place.
Ling Yushi promised to continue her study of the Scripture of the Nine Hells to find a way to unlock the Orb's secrets, and cautioned Qin Lie to be wary of Du Shao Yang, noting his deep-seated resentment. Qin Lie and Ling Yushi shared a heartfelt farewell, both expressing their reluctance to part. Qin Lie watched Ling Yushi walk into the portal, cherishing the memory of their journey together.
Elsewhere, Song Tingyu confronted Song Yu, finally revealing her true feelings for her strict father, admitting that she was leaving the Alliance out of love for Qin Lie. She knelt before him, bidding him an emotional farewell. Yiyuan and Lian Rou also shared a poignant goodbye, with Lian Rou bravely telling Yiyuan that if the Heavenly Calamity Continent was wonderful, he needn't return, as she was afraid of waiting for an uncertain future.
Li Mu and Bu Li also had a bittersweet parting. Xie Jingxuan, still reeling from Du Shao Yang’s betrayal, stood a noticeable distance from him, exchanging only silent glances. Once Qin Lie rejoined the group, Li Mu led everyone towards the Heavenly Calamity Continent, to face the trials ahead.
Episode 25 Recap
At the Illusory Demon Sect’s Maple Leaves Holy Land, Huang Shuli and Pan Qianqian dueled fiercely for the final sword token to enter the Graveyard of Gods. Pan Qianqian ultimately defeated Huang Shuli, earning the qualification, while Huang Shuli, enraged, accused her junior sister of arrogance. Meanwhile, Li Mu led Qin Lie, Song Tingyu, Xie Jingxuan, Yiyuan, and Du Shaoyang to the Heavenly Calamity Continent, explaining it was their first trial in the Land of Chaos.
He introduced the continent’s major powers: the Terminator Sect, known for their unique Terminator Profound Bombs; the Artefact Forging Sect, the elder brother to the Armament Sect; and the Heavenly Sword Sect, led by Li Mu himself. He then spoke of the Graveyard of Gods, a perilous place that opens only once every ten years, where few return alive.
Survival is said to be possible only for those acknowledged by the Demon Sealing Tombstone, which is rumored to be a legacy of Gong Mulie. Both Qin Lie and Song Tingyu showed keen interest in the Tombstone upon hearing Gong Mulie’s name. Li Mu cautioned everyone against reckless actions and reminded them of the significant power disparity between their realm and the Imperishable Realm leaders of this land.
He also mentioned the Ghost Eye Race, a branch of the Nether Race living peacefully with humans on the continent. Upon arrival, the group encountered three members of the Ghost Eye Race—La Er, La Fei, and La Pu—who offered to guide them through Dark Jade City. The Ghost Eye Race, despite their small stature, boasted great wisdom and extensive knowledge, claiming that if they didn’t know something, no one in the Land of Chaos would.
They quickly deduced that Qin Lie and his companions were the renowned group from the Scarlet Tide Continent, who had supposedly gained favor with Li Mu to secure their sword tokens. Qin Lie and others found their cunning charm endearing. The Ghost Eye Race revealed that Dark Jade City is managed by five Silver rank forces, known for their open-mindedness towards various races but also for daily battles due to their adherence to the rule of "might makes right."
As news spread that the Graveyard of Gods’ entrance was about to open, Qin Lie decided they should find lodging first. However, at the Blue Star Association Tavern, they found prices exorbitant, with the Heaven Room costing 500 premium spirit stones per night, the Earth Room 100, and the Secular Room 50. When their attempts to offer 500 medium-grade spirit stones were scorned, the innkeeper, recognizing their sword tokens, tried to coerce them into mortgaging the tokens for free lodging.
Realizing they had been betrayed by the Ghost Eye Race, who had accepted their spirit stones without revealing this vital information, they prepared to fight. They confronted the innkeeper, who, upon learning they were associates of Li Mu of the Heavenly Sword Mountain, quickly backed down. Deciding that Dark Jade City was too risky and expensive, the group opted to head directly to the Graveyard of Gods to await its opening.
Meanwhile, Ling Yushi had been crowned Empress of the Nether Race and quickly earned her people's approval. With the power of the Mother of Earth, she could now reshape the land, creating flowers, trees, and lakes, showcasing her immense potential. For the long-term future of her people, Ling Yushi resolved not to initiate new conflicts but to focus on recuperation and cultivating the Scripture of the Nine Hells.
She acknowledged Qin Lie’s previous plea to the Master of Frost for help, which had protected them from the Profound Heaven Alliance and the Eight Extreme Temple. While grateful, she reiterated that old animosities would not be easily resolved, vowing to stand firm if ever attacked, even if it meant turning the land into ruins. As a faint light emanated from the entrance of the Graveyard of Gods, the group gathered.
The Ghost Eye Race reappeared, offering crucial information about safely entering the portal: holding hands to avoid being scattered by powerful air currents, for a hefty price of 200 spirit stones. Once inside, Qin Lie and his companions found themselves in an underwater maze. A man in white fur, Chu Li, the volatile genius of the Terminator Sect, immediately attacked them with numerous Terminator Profound Bombs.
Qin Lie, recalling the Ghost Eye Race’s description, recognized Chu Li’s distinctive attire and explosive temperament. Elsewhere, Song Tingyu observed others vying for the Demon Sealing Tombstone. Using an illusion, she tricked them and successfully seized the Tombstone. Returning to the maze, she encountered Huang Shuli, who had used her illusory arts to disguise herself as Qin Lie.
Song Tingyu, however, easily saw through the deception, stating that the real Qin Lie would first inquire about her well-being, not demand the Tombstone. Recognizing Huang Shuli’s superior illusionary skills but inferior combat abilities, Song Tingyu engaged her. Huang Shuli, outmatched, called for Chu Li, revealing their prior acquaintance. With Chu Li unleashing his bombs, Song Tingyu quickly sought refuge in a nearby cave. Separately, Du Shaoyang stumbled into a tavern filled with seemingly dead bodies.
He discovered the innkeeper had tied up Xie Jingxuan, threatening her life and coercing Du Shaoyang to drink poisoned wine. Just then, Yiyuan entered the tavern, only for the "dead bodies" to reanimate and capture him. In desperation, Yiyuan transformed into a small snake and slipped into the room. Seeing Yiyuan enter, Du Shaoyang feigned compliance, taking the wine. Once Yiyuan attacked the innkeeper, Du Shaoyang knocked him unconscious, rescuing Xie Jingxuan.
However, Yiyuan soon revealed that he had been ambushed, not by the innkeeper, but by the "fake dead bodies," leading Du Shaoyang to realize the entire event was a meticulously planned trap set by Xie Jingxuan. Xie Jingxuan confessed her intention was to prevent Du Shaoyang from obtaining the Demon Sealing Tombstone, disappointed by his persistent obsession with his grudge against Qin Lie, which she felt overshadowed their shared past. Du Shaoyang, seeing her disappointment, hung his head low.
Song Tingyu managed to escape the barrier and was met by Qin Lie. As Huang Shuli and Chu Li pursued them, Song Tingyu and Qin Lie cleverly swapped the real Demon Sealing Tombstone for a fake, holding it high to attract other pursuers, thus creating a diversion to escape. Fleeing through the chaotic streets, amidst an ongoing battle, Song Tingyu’s attention was drawn to a mysterious door, sensing an inherent danger behind it.
Moments later, Qin Lie and Song Tingyu witnessed dead bodies reanimating and heard eerie sounds emanating from behind the door. They decided to avoid the strange door for now. Later, in the evening, Yiyuan, having returned to human form, wandered the empty streets, overcome with sadness and missing Lian Rou. He openly expressed his loneliness and longing for her. By chance, Pan Qianqian passed by, feeling an indistinct sense of familiarity with the sorrowful figure.
Episode 26 Recap
Pan Qianqian saw the crying Yiyuan and couldn't help but turn to press him about his identity. But the upset Yiyuan shook off Pan Qianqian's hand and just continued walking forward on his own. Watching Yiyuan's rather lonely back, Pan Qianqian couldn't help but shed tears… Chu Li recognized that the Demon Sealing Tombstone thrown by Qin Lie was a complete fake, and he couldn't help but admire Qin Lie's courage.
At that moment, Feng Yiyou of the Artefact Forging Sect suddenly rushed out, claiming that Chu Li's junior brother had been captured and urging him to walk through the mysterious door. Qin Lie, who was passing by, used the essence of frost to obstruct Feng Yiyou and his companion, saving Chu Li. Furious, Chu Li chased after Feng Yiyou and the other, attacking them relentlessly.
Qin Lie couldn't stop him and could only follow along to try and hold Chu Li back. While Ling Yushi was deeply focused on her cultivation, she saw herself stabbing Qin Lie with a dagger in her consciousness. This jolted her awake, and she realized it was not Du Shaoyang who killed Qin Lie, but herself. At this time, a priest who was guarding her nearby caught up to her.
It turned out that Ling Yushi had comprehended the first volume, and now the middle volume of the Scripture of the Nine Hells had appeared in Dark Jade City. Ling Yushi decided to hurry to Dark Jade City to find the middle volume. Pan Qianqian angrily found Huang Shuli. It turned out that Huang Shuli had lost a competition and resorted to stealing the sword token.
Taking advantage of Pan Qianqian's distraction, Huang Shuli saw into Pan Qianqian's heart and transformed into the image of her beloved. When Pan Qianqian saw what appeared to be Yiyuan suddenly appear and hold her, she instantly saw through Huang Shuli's illusion. Pan Qianqian was about to counterattack with her sword, but Huang Shuli found another opportunity to escape. Pan Qianqian, who had been tracking her, then met the real Yiyuan.
She mistook him for Huang Shuli in disguise, but when she saw Yiyuan unable to fight back, she knew it was the real him. Pan Qianqian couldn't understand why Yiyuan had come to occupy a place in her heart in such a short time and couldn't help but start pressing him about their relationship. But Yiyuan was just confused and could only keep running away.
Du Shaoyang was searching for Xie Jingxuan in the same forest, but Xie Jingxuan was stopped by Duan Qianjie. The two had never met, but Duan Qianjie intended to kill Xie Jingxuan. Du Shaoyang heard the commotion and intervened. However, Duan Qianjie said that Xie Jingxuan had been poisoned by a venomous insect from the Black Voodoo Cult and that her mind would be gradually controlled until she was used as a tool for killing.
It would be better to kill such a person. Du Shaoyang offered to do it himself, but instead, he took the opportunity to turn and attack Duan Qianjie until he disappeared. Du Shaoyang couldn't bring himself to harm Xie Jingxuan. He learned that Xie Jingxuan had been poisoned by the voodoo insect and put under an illusion after stumbling upon Huang Shuli of the Illusory Demon Sect having a rendezvous with a strange man.
Before they could talk much more, a strange bell chimed. Xie Jingxuan, as if summoned, suddenly ran off with the sound of the bell. Du Shaoyang saw Xie Jingxuan vanish in the blink of an eye and, extremely anxious, rushed after her. Ling Yushi arrived inside the barrier, only to find that the call of the Scripture of the Nine Hells had disappeared. Without much thought, Yushi heard Yiyuan's cry for help… Qin Lie noticed a strange sound continuing.
It was the Demon Sealing Tombstone calling to him. Qin Lie quickly took out the Demon Sealing Tombstone, and an image emerged from its surface. Night Fairy looked at the Qin Lie before her and affectionately called him Gong Mulie. Song Tingyu, who was beside him, showed a look of pleasant surprise upon hearing this; it turned out Qin Lie really was Gong Mulie. In the image, Gong Mushan was leading Gong Mulie to sense the spirit pattern pillars.
At this moment, a chaotic humanoid figure appeared. Gong Mulie named her Night Fairy and took her as his first teacher. Qin Lie excitedly asked about his grandfather's whereabouts, but Night Fairy had no clue. Night Fairy was given life and a body of flesh and blood by Gong Mulie, and she had always lived as Gong Mulie's handmaiden. They thought they would stay together forever, but then Night Fairy mentioned the name Wuchun.
Night Fairy accused Gong Mulie of later betraying their clan for Wuchun. Gong Mulie trapped Night Fairy with the spirit pattern pillars. Year after year, Night Fairy's resentment grew deep, and she could only use the Demon Sealing Tombstone to wait for Qin Lie's appearance. Now that Qin Lie had appeared again, Night Fairy demanded that he stay and accompany her. But Qin Lie insisted on finding his friends.
Night Fairy suggested he use the power of the spirit pattern pillars to sense their tracks. Qin Lie finally heard Yiyuan's voice, and Yushi's as well. But as soon as Night Fairy heard Yushi's voice, she began to curse Wuchun. In a fit of rage, Night Fairy cast a spell and attacked everyone again. Qin Lie tried his best to resist, but when the dark clouds dispersed, Night Fairy was also gone.
Yiyuan found Ling Yushi and begged for her help to get rid of Pan Qianqian, who was following him. When Ling Yushi looked at Pan Qianqian's face, she was reminded of her own sister, Ling Xuanxuan. The identical face left Ling Yushi bewildered. But before the three of them could talk, Huang Shuli appeared with Xie Jingxuan and ordered Xie Jingxuan to kill Pan Qianqian.
Seeing Pan Qianqian captured by Xie Jingxuan, an extremely anxious Ling Yushi used her spirit energy to change the terrain, causing vines to grow and rescue Pan Qianqian. Seeing that the two of them were no match for Ling Yushi, Huang Shuli quickly fled. Yiyuan secretly followed Huang Shuli and discovered that she was not only controlling Xie Jingxuan but also Feng Yiyou and others. Pan Qianqian caught up with Yiyuan again, only to find the ground littered with corpses.
The door of the Tavern of the Blue Star Association had a strange demonic power behind it. Just as Pan Qianqian was about to open the door, she saw a dangerous light emitting from behind it. Yiyuan hurriedly appeared, trying to pull Pan Qianqian away from the dangerous abyss. Ling Yushi arrived at the same time and tried to grab Yiyuan, but she could not withstand the mysterious force, and all three of them fell through the door.
Qin Lie, who had rushed over, saw the three of them being sucked into the door. It was too late to save them, and he knew things were bad. As for Ling Yushi and the other two, they had arrived in Ling Xuanxuan's spiritual consciousness space… Qin Lie and his two companions listened intently from outside the door. Just then, Du Shaoyang appeared with Yan Baiyi, the Sword Holder of Tianjian Mountain. With a grief-stricken expression, Du Shaoyang told Qin Lie that Xie Jingxuan had been poisoned by a venomous insect from the Illusory Demon Sect and had become a puppet…
Episode 27 Recap
Everyone was surprised after learning that Xie Jingxuan was poisoned with black magic. Yan Baiyi explained from the side that only the poisoner could remove the poison, otherwise there would be no cure. Yan Baiyi volunteered to lead everyone to find Huang Shuli. Qin Lie's vigilance rose, but he still followed. Ling Yushi and the other two entered the illusion of Ling Borough from inside the door.
At this moment, Pan Qianqian did not remember her past memories as Ling Xuanxuan. Yushi realized that everyone might have entered Pan Qianqian's inner consciousness. She no longer insisted on recognizing her sister, but just let Pan Qianqian find the person she wanted to meet on her own. Ling Yushi watched Pan Qianqian walk up to her father.
It turned out that Pan Qianqian's heart was also conflicted about her past decision to leave on her own and not help Ling Borough overcome its difficulties. Only when she heard her father truly forgive her, Pan Qianqian shed tears. At this moment, the scene changed. Pan Qianqian transformed into Ling Xuanxuan's appearance and sat alone by the door until Hua Yuxin appeared. Ling Yushi and Yiyuan watched Hua Yuxin propose to Ling Xuanxuan.
The lovers finally united, but before their sweet moments lasted long, a storm suddenly descended. Ling Xuanxuan, Ling Yushi, and Yiyuan walked on the snow. Ling Xuanxuan pressed forward bravely in the storm, stubbornly wanting to find Hua Yuxin. Ling Yushi tightly embraced the nearly collapsing Ling Xuanxuan. But Ling Xuanxuan's emotions grew more and more agitated. Yiyuan had no choice but to strike and knock her out, which allowed Ling Xuanxuan to return to Pan Qianqian's consciousness.
The scene finally returned to the Graveyard of Gods. Qin Lie and the others outside the door were still wandering. Yan Baiyi watched Qin Lie use the spiritual pattern pillar to identify the scene behind the door. When they saw Ling Yushi and the others, everyone rushed forward. Yan Baiyi, however, looked as if his scheme had been foiled. He quietly looked at Huang Shuli in the corner.
It turned out that these two were the ones truly attempting to coordinate from both inside and outside. . . Qin Lie finally met Ling Yushi, and the two embraced excitedly. The five people sitting aside were ancient Sages. Before Yan Baiyi could prepare to take everything for himself, Qin Lie, Du Shaoyang, and others immediately captured him.
It turned out that this person was not the so-called Sword Holder of Heavenly Sword Sect, but Ye Yihao of Illusory Demon Sect. Qin Lie and Du Shaoyang had long since discerned Ye Yihao's conspiracy and took the opportunity to set a trap to trick him into their scheme.
Seeing that his scheme was exposed, Ye Yihao had no choice but to have Huang Shuli bring out all the followers whose consciousness had been taken, and officially started a battle with Qin Lie and the others. Although Qin Lie and the others were already the top talents of Chilan Continent, they were still powerless to resist against the masters of various sects.
Realizing the situation was dire, Qin Lie hastily used the Demon Sealing Tombstone to create an exit, wanting to lead everyone to escape for their lives. Du Shaoyang forcibly carried the controlled Xie Jingxuan away. Just as Ling Yushi wanted to retreat, Night Fairy at the exit suddenly attacked her with spiritual power. Song Tingyu quickly shielded Ling Yushi. Only then did Night Fairy realize that Song Tingyu was also her own consciousness.
Qin Lie quickly led the rest of the group out of the exit, and only then did they escape the danger. After Qin Lie and the others checked on each other's safety, they discovered that Duan Qianjie had also escaped with them. Duan Qianjie was a man of few words. Everyone originally ignored what he said. Unexpectedly, Duan Qianjie took out the middle volume of the Scripture of the Nine Hells, which immediately piqued Ling Yushi's interest.
Yushi had come for the scripture in the first place, and coupled with Duan Qianjie's seemingly desireless appearance, Yushi chose to trust him, leading Qin Lie and the others to temporarily follow Duan Qianjie's steps. Although Duan Qianjie was taciturn, he was combative. Qin Lie and the others' combined magical power was not enough to resist him. However, Duan Qianjie was only interested in Yushi's identity as the Underworld Empress. He directly stated that he wanted to duel with Yushi.
Ling Yushi agreed to Duan Qianjie's words and found him. Seeing Duan Qianjie knock out Pan Qianqian, she understood that Duan Qianjie had something else to say. Indeed, Duan Qianjie had once helped Ling Xuanxuan escape danger in the Land of Ice. But at that time, Ling Xuanxuan had already lost her memories, like a walking corpse. Later, Duan Qianjie simply took Ling Xuanxuan to the Illusory Demon Sect.
Knowing that Yu Linwei, the sect master of the Illusory Demon Sect, was skilled in illusion techniques, he simply found Ling Xuanxuan an identity from the Pan family, allowing her to live on from then. Now, no one knew how to solve the problem. Ling Yushi also asked if Duan Qianjie knew Li Mu. But Duan Qianjie said nothing, just walked straight out.
Ling Yushi looked at Duan Qianjie's back and recognized that his face was one of the three people in the Soul Suppressing Orb in Qin Lie's mind. After Duan Qianjie went out, he met Li Mu. It turned out that the two had known each other for a long time, and Duan Qianjie was entrusted by Li Mu to look after Qin Lie and the others.
Li Mu guessed that the Bo Tian Clan seemed to have signs of reappearing, and feared that another fierce battle was coming. But Duan Qianjie told Li Mu that Qin Lie's true body might very well be Gong Mulie. Upon hearing this, Li Mu was greatly alarmed and became flustered. . .
Episode 28 Recap
Pan Qianqian approached Yiyuan, wanting to understand the story of Ling Xuanxuan, believing Ling Yushi was suffering from deep grief over her sister’s absence. Pan Qianqian shared her intention to alleviate Yushi’s pain by pretending to be her sister, seeing no harm in gaining an elder sister. Touched by Pan Qianqian’s sincerity, Ling Yushi suggested a plan.
Yiyuan was to fabricate a history where he and Pan Qianqian were lovers who, while traveling the Scarlet Tide Continent, arrived in Ling Borough, befriended Ling Yushi and Qin Lie, and Pan Qianqian then recognized Ling Yushi as her sister. This fabricated story would explain Pan Qianqian’s subsequent memory loss, claiming her emotions were devoured by a Love Eater during a beast attack on Ling Borough.
Yiyuan recounted this story to Pan Qianqian, describing how they fell in love, journeyed to Ling Borough, and met Ling Yushi, who, deeply missing her own sister, embraced Pan Qianqian as a sibling. He vividly described the attack by the Love Eater, a beast from the far north that preys on profound emotions, leading to their separation and memory loss.
Pan Qianqian, hearing this, felt a profound connection, believing this shared past was the reason for her persistent feelings for Yiyuan. Convinced by the tale, she embraced Yiyuan, and they coordinated their story. When they presented their "reunion" to Ling Yushi, Pan Qianqian tearfully apologized for forgetting her sister, while Yiyushi reassured her, saying a sister never needs to apologize.
Pan Qianqian vowed to acknowledge Yushi as her sister again and again, no matter how many times she might forget, promising they would always find each other. Privately, Pan Qianqian and Yiyuan admitted their deep emotional connection during the act, with Pan Qianqian expressing that in that moment, she truly felt Ling Yushi was her sister and she would do anything for her. Meanwhile, Du Shaoyang was deeply concerned about Xie Jingxuan, who remained unconscious.
Song Tingyu offered to care for her. At that moment, Night Fairy appeared and forcefully merged with Song Tingyu's consciousness, absorbing all her past experiences and memories. Night Fairy then revealed that Song Tingyu's spirit essence had become one with hers, declaring that from now on, Song Tingyu’s identity was no more, and her body was now inhabited by Night Fairy, dedicated to protecting Gong Mulie. Later, Qin Lie sought out Du Shaoyang for a drink and a candid conversation.
Looking at the moon, they reminisced about their paths—Qin Lie’s ambition to reach higher realms, a dream Du Shaoyang shared from their first meeting at the Ling Borough’s Moon Festival. They acknowledged their different initial loyalties but noted how fate had brought them together through various life-and-death encounters. Qin Lie confessed his admiration for Du Shaoyang’s strength, asserting that he never needed a chance from anyone, and that they could only overcome darkness by working together.
Du Shaoyang admitted he had once envied Qin Lie's unburdened life as a "novice." Their heartfelt discussion allowed them to finally resolve their deep-seated animosity, forging a renewed resolve to unite against the coming darkness. Shortly after, Chu Li joined them, playfully complaining about being excluded and making light of Qin Lie's popularity with women, while lamenting his own lack of romantic success despite his wealth and power. He also mentioned his failed attempt to extract information from Duan Qianjie.
As Du Shaoyang retired for the night, he encountered Night Fairy (in Song Tingyu’s body). Night Fairy tried to sow discord, highlighting Qin Lie's rapid rise and connections with major sects since arriving in the Land of Chaos. She asked if Du Shaoyang felt bitter seeing his "father's murderer" now superior to him, accusing him of letting go of grudges too easily after a mere drink.
Night Fairy then provocatively questioned if Du Shaoyang was now willing to call Qin Lie "Big Brother" and rely on his influence. Despite her unsettling words, Du Shaoyang couldn't discern her true intentions and dismissed her, returning to Xie Jingxuan's bedside. He found her still and frail, and his heart was heavy with fear that she might never wake. He spoke of her past lessons and his regret, pleading with her to awaken, promising to grant her any wish.
To his immense relief, Xie Jingxuan stirred, softly calling his name. She chided him, recalling his promise to grant her any wish if she awoke, then jokingly claiming that she woke up because she was angry that Qin Lie had looked down on him, and wanted to stand up for Du Shaoyang. Late that night, Night Fairy crept into Qin Lie’s room.
She watched him sleep, then subtly removed the Spirit Pillars from his ring before departing, seemingly pleased with her successful theft. The next day marked the scheduled duel between Duan Qianjie and Ling Yushi. Knowing Ling Yushi’s likely disadvantage, the group planned a discreet escape. However, they soon learned that their whereabouts had been auctioned off by the Ghost Eye Race. As the Nether Empress, Ling Yushi felt a responsibility to personally capture the three traitors.
Xie Jingxuan, now recovered, proposed a new strategy. Realizing that Duan Qianjie was impervious to seduction, she revealed a unique artifact she had obtained from the Graveyard of Gods: the Shadowless Stone, found near an ancient Sage’s remains. She offered to trade this rare Spirit Stone for the second volume of the Scripture of the Nine Hells. Duan Qianjie, however, scoffed at her, stating her body was only worth a bottle of wine and he had no need to steal.
Undeterred, Xie Jingxuan demonstrated the Shadowless Stone's true power, explaining it could stealthily pilfer any item, even from powerful masters. She used it to covertly take the second volume of the Scripture of the Nine Hells from him, even as she continued to speak, distracting him. As the duel was about to begin, Duan Qianjie discovered the theft. Meanwhile, Chu Li, having paid the inn manager double what Duan Qianjie had, arranged for their escape through a portal.
They fled the inn, believing they were safe. But Duan Qianjie pursued them relentlessly, appearing outside the city like a shadow. He then revealed his true identity as the head of the Special Investigation and Management Department, with jurisdiction over all cities near the Heavenly Calamity Continent, shifting his focus to Xie Jingxuan for stealing the Scripture. Qin Lie stepped forward to protect his companions, but to his shock, he was unable to summon his Spirit Pillars.
As Duan Qianjie prepared to attack Xie Jingxuan, Li Mu suddenly appeared, drawing his sword and attempting to halt Duan Qianjie. However, Duan Qianjie disregarded their prior acquaintance and insisted on taking Xie Jingxuan. At that moment, Ling Yushi sensed an unusual vibration from the Scripture of the Nine Hells. The Scripture ascended, displaying a recorded message.
It revealed Chongming, the current Mother of Earth and Wuchun's mother, explaining that Gong Mulie and Wuchun had been forced into slumber to save their people. To prevent them from being exploited if their memories were lost upon awakening, Chongming recorded their story in the second volume of the Scripture of the Nine Hells, setting a condition for its opening: only when Wuchun and Gong Mulie reunited, and the four spirit artifacts protecting Gong Mulie were gathered, would it unlock.
All four artifacts were now present. The recording then showed Gong Mulie in the Deserted Spirits Realm, seeking the Mother of Earth for news of his father, the War God Gong Mu Hao, through the Ghost Eye Race. The Mother of Earth directed him to Wuchun, who explained that the crimson flame was necessary to find the War God, a condition Gong Mulie readily accepted.
Episode 29 Recap
Chongming questions Gong Mulie's persistent temper and, regarding his father's fate, states that knowing if he is alive or dead is pointless if Gong Mulie lacks the power to reach him, unless he possesses the Crimson Flame. Gong Mulie confirms he does. In the Divine Realm, Gong Mushan watches this vision, marveling at the existence of Volume Two of the Scripture of the Nine Hells and Chongming's inexplicable foresight.
He recalls his own actions: sealing Gong Mulie's divine blood with the Soul Suppressing Orb, instructing the Four Spirit Artifacts to guard it, and then, after 10,000 years, secretly awakening Qin Lie's human bloodline—all meticulously planned for his grandson. He wonders how Chongming could have foreseen everything 10,000 years in advance, then remembers the Ghost Eye Race's ability to see past and future.
However, Night Fairy, upon seeing a vision of Gong Mulie's first meeting with Wuchun, becomes intensely jealous and breaks the vision. Gong Mushan exclaims that Chongming knows his son, Gong Mu Hao’s, whereabouts. He recalls Chongming's cryptic words from 10,000 years ago, that Gong Mu Hao was “dead and also alive,” his spirit as the God of War unperished.
At the time, Gong Mushan had dismissed these as comforting words when he secretly sought answers in the Deserted Spirits Realm after Gong Mu Hao’s supposed death. Now, seeing Chongming repeat these exact words to Gong Mulie (Qin Lie) and preserve them in Volume Two, he knows it's no coincidence.
Despite his aide's warnings that Chongming's divine sense might be completely gone after sealing her power in Volume Two 10,000 years ago, Gong Mushan insists on finding Chongming, declaring he will not give up even a slight chance to learn the truth about his son. He then instructs his aide to prevent anyone from seeing Volume Two again and to retrieve it, expressing concern that the Divine Race is returning and Qin Lie's temperament is not yet fully developed.
He gives his aide an object to embed in Qin Lie's mind if he fails to return. Meanwhile, in an inn, Qin Lie and his companions discuss the recent revelations. Unbeknownst to them, Night Fairy, disguised as Song Tingyu, is also present, eavesdropping on their plans. Chu Li mentions that Night Fairy had told him Qin Lie is Gong Mulie, Ling Yushi is Wuchun, and that Night Fairy herself lost half her divine sense.
He explains they withheld this information due to the difficulty of explaining it. Qin Lie, recalling Chongming's words about his father Gong Mu Hao's spirit still existing, resolves to find Chongming's last remaining wisp of divine sense to uncover the full truth. Qin Lie expresses that while he will delegate the Black Voodoo Cult matter to Duan Qianjie, the Divine Race poses the most significant threat.
He recounts the Gongmu family's involvement in the ancient Human-Divine war, and Gong Mu Hao's sacrifice as the God of War. He worries that Gong Mulie and the Mother of Earth might assist the Golden Force upon the Divine Race’s return. He acknowledges the many unanswered questions, particularly why he and Ling Yushi slept for 10,000 years and lost their memories, and who deliberately interrupted Volume Two of the Scripture of the Nine Hells.
Ling Yushi identifies the interruption as caused by Qin Lie’s stolen Spirit Pillars, confirming they were indeed taken. Both Qin Lie and Ling Yushi suspect Night Fairy, noting that she did not disappear but managed to escape the Graveyard of Gods.
Chu Li also brings up the four spirit artifacts Night Fairy mentioned earlier, and Ling Yushi notes that the Scripture of the Nine Hells only fully awakened with Li Mu's appearance, though at this point, they all still assume the artifacts are merely weapons. Separately, three young members of the Ghost Eye Race complain about being treated like children.
They recall their hardships over the past three years: three kidnappings, eight deaths, all their spirit stones stolen, and twenty-five more dying of hunger, leaving only three of them. One wants to flee, but another argues that they now have soft beds and Ling Yushi, the Mother of Earth, is their mother. The first retorts, asking where their "mother" was during their suffering. The group then discusses the Four Spirit Artifacts.
Ling Yushi clarifies that Chongming stated Gong Mulie, Wuchun, and the four artifacts must unite to summon Volume Two. Qin Lie reveals that the Volume stirred actively in his hand, only fully opening when Li Mu appeared. Chu Li, eager for his weapons to be considered, suggests everyone present check their weapons, even boasting about his Terminator Profound Bombs, claiming they could be one of the top four spirit artifacts.
At this point, most still assume these 'spirit artifacts' refer to powerful weapons. Ling Yushi steers the conversation to Qin Lie and her new identities. Chu Li pledges loyalty to Qin Lie, initially calling him "Big Brother" before correcting himself to "brother-in-law." Xie Jingxuan states her clear stance on Gong Mulie. Duan Qianjie asserts that he and Du Shaoyang will continue to regard him as Qin Lie, regardless of his true identity.
Qin Lie expresses his gratitude, then asks Duan Qianjie to handle the Black Voodoo Cult; Duan replies that he will do so "when he is in the mood." Chu Li attempts to provide food for the three Ghost Eye children, but they explain they consume only spirit stones. They detail their immense daily needs—9,000 stones per person per day—and their tragic history of poverty, kidnappings, and starvation.
Chu Li, boasting of his wealth, offers to feed them, but his spirit stones are quickly consumed, leaving him aghast at the cost and the prospect of needing to work for Li Mu to sustain them. Yiyuan awakens to find Pan Qianqian, disguised as Lian Rou, standing by his window. He embraces her, but she reveals her Illusory Demon Sect power, having sensed that his heart was not truly with her. Pan Qianqian demands to know who Lian Rou is.
Yiyuan awkwardly stammers an explanation, citing the Love Eater that consumed his feelings for Pan Qianqian, after which he met Lian Rou. Pan Qianqian, however, remains bitter, realizing he still cares for Lian Rou. He attempts to reassure her he will forget Lian Rou tomorrow, then tries to leave, realizing it’s his own room. Pan Qianqian, frustrated, leaves his room in anger. Xie Jingxuan visits "Song Tingyu's" room, unable to sleep.
Unaware that it is Night Fairy disguised as Song Tingyu, Xie Jingxuan greets her as usual. Night Fairy probes Xie Jingxuan about her feelings, suggesting she let go of Qin Lie and perhaps consider someone playful like Chu Li instead of the sullen Du Shaoyang. Xie Jingxuan confirms Du Shaoyang's despondency since learning Qin Lie's true identity and his desire for solitude. Night Fairy feigns understanding but secretly rejoices at the success of her manipulation.
In the courtyard, Qin Lie questions Li Mu about Duan Qianjie's intimate knowledge of the Eye of Frost's flaws, suggesting Li Mu sent Duan to secretly protect them. Li Mu confirms this, asking Qin Lie to understand Duan's good intentions despite his gruff demeanor. Qin Lie acknowledges Duan's help and toasts Li Mu. Qin Lie then asks about Li Mu's relationship with Duan Qianjie.
Li Mu reveals they are like brothers, recounting their childhood as orphans, enduring bullying and poverty, and how they promised to protect each other. A brief flashback shows a young Duan Qianjie caring for a feverish Li Mu. Back in the present, Li Mu emphasizes that these hardships only strengthened their bond, making Duan his greatest concern.
He explains that his own swordsmanship talent and Duan's formidable fighting skills, honed in countless battles, led him to become a Sword Holder with Duan's help. He states they are equally matched, and Duan "made him" who he is, being Li Mu's only family. Li Mu then asks Qin Lie his true purpose for inquiring about their past.
Qin Lie hesitantly admits that the four spirit artifacts mentioned in Volume Two of the Scripture of the Nine Hells are not ordinary weapons. Duan Qianjie, having secretly overheard, bursts out in fury, accusing Qin Lie of being insane to suggest they are "spirit artifacts" and live in his mind. Li Mu tries to calm Duan, reassuring him that Qin Lie would not lie. Qin Lie attempts to explain, suggesting that if they aren't human but spirit artifacts. . .
Duan cuts him off, still enraged. Li Mu interjects by asking Duan if he remembers his parents' faces, implying they have no human parents. Li Mu explains that the truth is within Volume Two, but someone deliberately interrupted it to keep them ignorant. He suspects Night Fairy, using the stolen Spirit Pillars, is behind it and urges Qin Lie to figure out how to lure his "old flame" out.
Duan Qianjie, however, still refuses to accept the idea, coldly stating that Night Fairy likely stole the Spirit Pillars and suggesting they should focus their investigation on that. Night Fairy, still disguised as Song Tingyu, finds a brooding Du Shaoyang. She taunts him about Qin Lie being an insurmountable rival, then reminds him of Xie Jingxuan's voodoo insect.
She reveals that to cure Xie Jingxuan, Du Shaoyang must become the new Voodoo Master and leader of the Black Voodoo Cult by inheriting the residual spiritual power of Jiang Yan, the ancient Voodoo Master, whose body lies in the Graveyard of Gods. She explains the Voodoo Race's history: once revered for using voodoo insects to light up the ancient dark periods, they fell into disgrace and became the Black Voodoo Cult after Jiang Yan's death.
She promises that even a fragment of Jiang Yan's power would enable Du Shaoyang to dominate the Land of Chaos, rival Qin Lie, and effortlessly heal Xie Jingxuan. Night Fairy then reveals the entrance to the Graveyard of Gods, leaving the choice to Du Shaoyang. Inside, Du Shaoyang is awestruck by Jiang Yan's preserved form.
While Du Shaoyang was still hesitating, Night Fairy then summons the stolen Spirit Pillars, using them to call forth Jiang Yan's lingering divine sense, revealing that she was the one who took them and interrupted Volume Two because she found Qin Lie and Wuchun's "ridiculous romance stories" tiresome. Jiang Yan's spirit appears, declaring himself the Voodoo Master who protected the Spirit Realm until the Divine Race war, where he was betrayed by the Golden Force and his people slaughtered.
He offers his power to Du Shaoyang on the condition that Du swears to lead the Voodoo Race back to glory and power in the Land of Gold. Du Shaoyang, consumed by his desire to surpass Qin Lie and either earn Xie Jingxuan's love or fully cut ties and let go of his own feelings, kneels and takes the oath, vowing to lead the Voodoo Race to power and glory. Night Fairy congratulates him on his "new lease on life."
Du Shaoyang immediately realizes she is Night Fairy, deducing that only she could use the stolen Spirit Pillars with such mastery. Night Fairy confirms it and reveals she kept the former Black Voodoo Cult leader, Ye Yihao, alive for future use. She then presents Du Shaoyang to the other cult members, declaring him their new leader, having inherited the First Voodoo Insect from Jiang Yan. The cultists bow and acknowledge Du Shaoyang as their new master.
Du Shaoyang then secretly implants the First Voodoo Insect into the minds of the three Ghost Eye Race members. Pan Qianqian insists on leaving for the Illusory Demon Sect. Ling Yushi tries to dissuade her, but Pan Qianqian is determined. Feeling guilty, Yiyuan offers to escort her.
Pan Qianqian, enraged by what she perceives as his "flowery words" and "playboy" nature, draws her sword and threatens him, accusing him of still having Lian Rou on his mind while trying to deceive her. She warns him that women of the Illusory Demon Sect kill philanderers. Yiyuan protests, reminding her he promised Ling Yushi to escort her, and even offers her food, worried about her multi-day journey without flying artifacts.
Pan Qianqian repeatedly tells him to "get lost" and threatens to kill him if he continues to follow her, forcing Yiyuan to retreat as she continues her journey alone. Meanwhile, Duan Qianjie's subordinate, Hongyan, reports the alarming discovery of the First Voodoo Insect's traces on thousands of residents across the continent, with the number rapidly increasing.
In the inn, Qin Lie and the others discuss this resurgence of the Voodoo Master's power, puzzled by how ancient insects could still be active despite Jiang Yan's death. Chu Li suspects Ye Yihao might still be alive, a concern Qin Lie shares. They attempt to gather information from the three Ghost Eye Race members, only to discover that they have been infected by the First Voodoo Insect and lost their precognitive abilities.
Qin Lie realizes this attack was specifically orchestrated to prevent them from uncovering clues. Despite Duan Qianjie having deployed guards, the Black Voodoo Cult managed to infiltrate. Qin Lie questions whether the Black Voodoo Cult's targeting stems from old grievances from the Graveyard of Gods. Duan Qianjie's men are investigating if this mutation is confined to Dark Jade City.
Qin Lie expresses concern that if the anomaly is localized, other sects will surely dispatch forces to purge the "aliens," potentially transforming Dark Jade City into a true Land of Chaos. As their worry deepens, La Fei from the Ghost Eye Race rushes in, reporting that their "Big Brother" has gone missing.
Episode 30 Recap
La Fei rushed to Ling Yushi, reporting that La Pu had left because he no longer trusted them. Ling Yushi immediately suggested they split up to search for him. Li Mu and Duan Qianjie decided to investigate the Black Voodoo Cult's base, while Xie Jingxuan proposed that she and Du Shaoyang search together. However, Du Shaoyang chose to go alone, telling Xie Jingxuan they could meet later at their usual spot.
Meanwhile, Night Fairy and Du Shaoyang tracked down two members of the Ghost Eye Race, realizing the duo had been planning an escape rather than meeting at the city gate. They swiftly dealt with the two, silencing their cries for help. Night Fairy questioned Du Shaoyang's intentions, and he revealed his plan to divert Qin Lie’s group to Ye Yihao.
At the same time, Duan Qianjie and Li Mu confronted Ye Yihao, who admitted to manipulating the Supreme Voodoo Insect and causing the chaos in Black Jade City. Li Mu expressed disbelief that Ye Yihao alone could cultivate such a powerful insect, demanding to know his accomplice. Ye Yihao confessed to colluding with the Heaven Fighting Race, stating his goal was to restore the Voodoo Cult to its former glory.
He planned to infect Gong Mulie (Qin Lie) and the Mother of Land (Ling Yushi) with the Supreme Voodoo Insect, turning them into formidable slaughtering tools for the Heaven Fighting Race, thereby revitalizing the Voodoo Cult and purging those who had scorned them. He declared that the time for this plan had arrived. As Qin Lie and Ling Yushi searched, they found La Pu in distress.
While attempting to help him, Ling Yushi was bitten and poisoned by the Supreme Voodoo Insect, seemingly transmitted from La Pu. Concurrently, Qin Lie experienced an excruciating headache and unsettling sensations. Elsewhere, Ye Yihao, sensing Ling Yushi’s poisoning, urged Duan Qianjie to kill her to prevent future complications. However, Li Mu, recognizing the dire situation, quickly executed Ye Yihao with a single sword stroke.
Xie Jingxuan witnessed Li Mu killing Ye Yihao at the city gate and attempted to slip away. Upon Ye Yihao's death, the voodoo insects within Xie Jingxuan's body dissipated. Soon after, Chu Li found her, showing her La Er's shoe, which he found where the Ghost Eye Race members were. Xie Jingxuan discreetly spotted her own comb, a keepsake she had given to Du Shaoyang, among the Ghost Eye Race's discarded belongings.
Realizing the grim implications, she feigned innocence, claiming to have merely dropped her comb, and urgently led Chu Li back to the inn, citing Ling Yushi’s troubles. Ling Yushi managed to temporarily suppress the Supreme Voodoo Insect's poison with her spiritual power. Xie Jingxuan arrived, informing them that Duan Qianjie was mobilizing forces to capture Ling Yushi. Qin Lie, Ling Yushi, Chu Li, and Xie Jingxuan quickly relocated to a secluded hideout.
Qin Lie showed them his collection of powerful Terminator Profound Bombs for defense, promising to gather more, enough to destroy the entire Land of Chaos if needed. Ling Yushi worried for Du Shaoyang and Song Tingyu, but also focused on her own condition.
At the inn, Li Mu, secretly grappling with the Supreme Voodoo Insect he had contracted during his encounter with Ye Yihao, declared a city-wide lockdown and ordered the imprisonment of all infected individuals, partly to conceal his own worsening state from Duan Qianjie. Duan Qianjie, meanwhile, searched for Qin Lie and Ling Yushi. Xie Jingxuan, observing the inn, was spotted by Duan Qianjie, who demanded to know Qin Lie and Ling Yushi's whereabouts.
Feigning ignorance, Xie Jingxuan used a peculiar device, a "trick invented by Master Mohai to deal with his wife," to immobilize Duan Qianjie before making her escape. Back in his room, Li Mu found himself enveloped in a dark, potent energy, a clear manifestation of the severe poison within him. Outside, Buli watched the black mist seeping from his room, deeply concerned. Qin Lie diligently cared for Ling Yushi in their peaceful refuge.
She expressed sadness over her potential loss of senses, unable to fully experience touching his face. Qin Lie affectionately promised her a wedding and reaffirmed his unwavering love, despite sensing a strange force, possibly the Soul Suppressing Orb, impeding his emotions and memories. To comfort her, Qin Lie picked a rare, blooming flower for Ling Yushi. She then pressed its scent onto him, hoping to always recognize him, even if her senses faded.
They discussed the possibility of a mole among them, ruling out Li Mu and Du Shaoyang, but were unable to identify the true culprit. Ling Yushi’s condition worsened, and she temporarily lost her hearing. Simultaneously, Qin Lie suffered another agonizing headache, experiencing visions of Li Mu on a rampage. Observing the ominous changes in the sky, Night Fairy realized Li Mu had successfully awakened, his consciousness now consumed by the Supreme Voodoo Insect's cruel influence.
Meanwhile, Du Shaoyang entered the Graveyard of Gods, following Xie Jingxuan's marks, and they met at a tavern as if by agreement. Du Shaoyang calmly inquired about Qin Lie and the others' whereabouts. However, Xie Jingxuan presented him with a Ghost Eye Race shoe and the comb she had given him. Seeing her suspicious gaze, Du Shaoyang feigned innocence, accused her of suspicion, and opportunistically suggested they break off their relationship.
This made Xie Jingxuan feel guilty, and she embraced him tightly. Li Mu, fully overtaken by the Supreme Voodoo Insect, unleashed a deadly rampage in the jail. Buli intervened, regretfully using her "Eye of Frost" power to encase him in ice. She then sought out Qin Lie and Chu Li, revealing her identity as the legendary Master of Frost.
Buli explained that Li Mu's rampage was a deliberate setup and proposed using his life as bait to draw out the true mastermind. Duan Qianjie, arriving to quell Li Mu's rampage, confronted Qin Lie, who feigned an intent to kill Li Mu. This provoked Duan Qianjie into a staged fight with Qin Lie. As they battled, Night Fairy, witnessing the confrontation, flew in to attack Duan Qianjie.
Qin Lie, utilizing his lightning powers, counterattacked, and he and Duan Qianjie worked together to finally subdue her. Night Fairy, now captured, accused them of conspiring against her, to which Qin Lie calmly explained it was the only way to make her reveal herself.
With Night Fairy subdued, Qin Lie pressed her for answers, revealing his deductions: her attempts to kill him in illusions, her calling him "Wuchun," and the similar hatred displayed by both Night Fairy and Song Tingyu at the Graveyard of Gods, all pointed to them being the same entity. Night Fairy confirmed that she had used "half of her divine sense" to create the persona of Song Tingyu.
She recounted how ten thousand years ago, half of her consciousness followed Gong Mulie, witnessing his suffering for Ling Yushi and his subsequent sealing by Gongmu Shan. Powerless to save him, she had guarded him for millennia. Upon his awakening, she assumed the form of Song Tingyu, aligning with the Profound Heaven Alliance on the Scarlet Tide Continent to continue protecting him. However, despite her millennia of devotion, Qin Lie still harbored feelings for Ling Yushi. Enraged by this, Night Fairy defiantly declared her refusal to cure Ling Yushi of the Supreme Voodoo Insect's poison, stating she would only "do that after she dies."
Episode 31 Recap
Enraged that her ten thousand years of guarding Qin Lie still resulted in him loving Ling Yushi, Night Fairy scornfully declared that half of her divine sense had waited for him at the Graveyard of Gods for ten thousand years, while the other half guarded him for just as long, yet his heart remained solely with Ling Yushi.
When Qin Lie urged her to remove the poison from Ling Yushi and talk, Night Fairy refused, stating she would only speak with him after Ling Yushi was dead. Seeing Night Fairy's fury, Bu Li swiftly unfroze Li Mu. Now in a combat-ready state, Li Mu rushed out, piercing both Night Fairy and Ling Yushi, thereby halting Night Fairy's assault. Stunned by Ling Yushi's faltering figure, Qin Lie immediately went to her side.
At this moment, Ling Yushi's Scripture of the Nine Hells was activated again. Ling Yushi assured him she was fine, crediting Gong Mulie's spirit artifact with giving her strength. Meanwhile, in a flashback, it was revealed that Gong Mulie, driven to uncover the truth about his father's disappearance, had presented the Sword of Sheng Xie, an ancient spirit artifact he forged using the crimson flame.
Wu Chun acknowledged the sword's intense aggression, explaining that a sword, representing the kingly way and integrity, inevitably causes death, and the more it kills, the more murderous it becomes, eventually losing its true form and the kingly dignity, becoming a mere weapon. Wu Chun offered to remove the sword's bloodlust with the power vested in her by the earth, returning it to its true form, thus making Gong Mulie "clean and safe." Gong Mulie agreed.
Wu Chun also revealed that Gong Mulie, born with two bloodlines that could not merge, was only able to wield the sword because it had been consumed by a killing aura, allowing him to control it with his own inner hostility. She advised him to purge this hostility to unleash the artifact's full power.
Though Wu Chun declared their families' debts settled, Gong Mulie remained steadfast in his quest for his father's whereabouts, pushing Wu Chun for answers, determined not to give up until he achieved his goal. Back in the present, Ling Yushi's resilience after being pierced was attributed to the power of Gong Mulie's spirit artifact. As Qin Lie and Bu Li looked back, they realized Li Mu was truly awakened, recognizing his identity as a spirit artifact.
Li Mu, now identifying as Sheng Xie, acknowledged Qin Lie as his master. Qin Lie, surprised, asked what he had done to deserve such an honor. Li Mu explained that he had loose ends to tie up and could not follow Qin Lie immediately. Li Mu then transformed into the Sheng Xie Sword and entered Qin Lie's consciousness.
Bu Li interjected, revealing that Qin Shan had once helped him achieve enlightenment and informed him that both Li Mu and Duan Qianjie were spirit artifacts tasked with guarding the Soul Suppressing Orb. Li Mu added that ten thousand years ago, he and Bu Li had met and bonded within the Gongmu family and, after the family's destruction, jointly undertook the duty of guarding the orb.
He lamented leaving Bu Li, expressing that after experiencing the human world, he could not be emotionless, and felt he had failed his loyalty. Bu Li reassured him that having feelings meant he had not failed. Li Mu then told Qin Lie that he hoped his master would retain his humanity upon his true awakening, explaining that the co-existence of bloodlines would not lead to suppression.
He warned Qin Lie to be careful, as he could only guard him for now. Qin Lie, confused, questioned the meaning of "co-existence" and what was sealed within the Soul Suppressing Orb. Li Mu clarified that Qin Lie and Gong Mulie co-existed in one body, with Gong Mulie sealed within the orb, and Qin Lie would awaken when all Four Spirit Artifacts were fully awakened.
Meanwhile, Hua Yuxing reported Li Mu's awakening to his father, Hua Tianqiong, suggesting that the Golden Force must have sensed the ancient murderous aura released by Sheng Xie. Hua Tianqiong dismissed the murderous power as a minor concern but expressed worry about the re-emergence of the second volume of the Scripture of the Nine Hells.
He then instructed Hua Yuxing to kill Yiyuan and lure everyone to the Purple Mist Sea, believing it would be easier to handle them all in one place. Hua Tianqiong then departed for the Su Luo Realm to meet Master of Heaven. There, he informed the Master of Heaven of the strong spiritual power he had sensed, confirming it to be the Scripture of the Nine Hells.
Master of Heaven revealed that the three volumes of the Scripture of the Nine Hells were lost ten thousand years ago, and both the first and second volumes had now appeared, carrying the power of Chongming. Hua Tianqiong revealed that the Scripture was currently in the hands of some "nobodies" in the Scarlet Tide Continent. Master of Heaven decided to send his own people to retrieve the Scripture, with Hua Tianqiong supervising.
Despite Pan Qianqian's protests, Yiyuan insisted on escorting her to the Illusory Demon Sect. Pan Qianqian admitted she felt touched by his concern, realizing no one had ever cared for her so deeply, making her feel needed. They decided to halt their journey and find an inn, settling for a single room due to lack of availability, which led to some light-hearted banter. Yiyuan confessed that he felt he didn't belong in the Purple Mist Sea but still missed it.
Suddenly, Hua Yuxing appeared, stabbing Yiyuan in the chest and warning that no one from the Purple Mist Sea would be spared before vanishing. Yiyuan fell into a coma, during which he saw a vision of Wu Chun. Upon regaining consciousness, he was startled to find Pan Qianqian crying over him. Remembering Hua Yuxing's threat to the Purple Mist Sea, Yiyuan decided to rush back. Pan Qianqian, putting aside her journey to the Illusory Demon Sect, chose to accompany him.
The news of Li Mu and Duan Qianjie being spirit artifacts brought many shocking revelations. Qin Lie and his companions discussed Night Fairy's motives, concluding that she likely orchestrated Ling Yushi's poisoning to weaken her and restore Sheng Xie's murderous power, thereby awakening Qin Lie. They speculated that Night Fairy might not want Gong Mulie to awaken, fearing he could become more dangerous.
Qin Lie shared his suspicion that someone beyond Night Fairy was involved, possibly a new powerful figure within the Black Voodoo Cult, as Ling Yushi's voodoo insect remained even after Ye Yihao's death. He decided to wait for this person to reveal themselves. Later, Qin Lie found Du Shaoyang, who seemed uneasy and overly sensitive, feeling defeated at the implication that he might also be a spirit artifact bound to Gong Mulie.
Qin Lie reassured Du Shaoyang that he valued friends far more than spirit artifacts. Unbeknownst to them, Xie Jingxuan was standing at the doorway, quietly listening to their entire conversation. That night, as Qin Lie watched over the comatose Ling Yushi, he reflected on Du Shaoyang's unusual quietness and tendency to keep his feelings hidden. Ling Yushi's unconscious state made him feel profoundly lonely and helpless.
He held her hand, expressing his longing for her to awaken and share his burdens. Suddenly, Hua Yuxing's voice echoed, announcing Yiyuan's death and a dire fate for the entire Purple Mist Sea. The news spread among the group, causing great alarm, and they immediately resolved to return to the Purple Mist Sea. Upon arriving at the Purple Mist Sea, Yiyuan and Pan Qianqian found it deserted. Coincidentally, Lian Rou, who was there collecting spirit herbs, discovered Yiyuan.
Their warm reunion sparked a flash of jealousy in Pan Qianqian. Soon after, Qin Lie and his group arrived, relieved to find Yiyuan alive. Concerned about Ling Yushi, Pan Qianqian requested to speak with her alone. At Ling Yushi's bedside, Pan Qianqian tearfully confessed to faking amnesia, expressing deep regret for leaving and wishing she could have stayed by her sister's side, just as they had in Ling Borough. As Pan Qianqian wept, Ling Yushi's finger subtly twitched.
While Qin Lie pondered the true purpose of their being lured to the Purple Mist Sea, Master Hua observed the unfolding events from a nearby hilltop. The Golden Force arrived, intent on eliminating Qin Lie and his companions. During the ensuing battle, Ling Yushi suddenly awakened in her room, her eyes vacant, and she instinctively clutched Pan Qianqian's throat. Pan Qianqian's desperate cries startled Ling Yushi, who then released her and flew into the courtyard.
Temporarily consumed by the voodoo insects, Ling Yushi was no longer rational. As a Golden Force assassin lunged at Pan Qianqian, Yiyuan heroically intercepted the blow, taking a sword to his chest. He collapsed, and Pan Qianqian and Lian Rou rushed to his side. Ling Yushi then turned her corrupted power on Qin Lie, pinning him down. Qin Lie, sensing her distress, repeatedly called her name, awakening her consciousness.
Ling Yushi swiftly regained control, unleashing her spiritual power to subdue all remaining enemies. As the Golden Force lay defeated, Ling Yushi struggled to control her own hands, desperately pleading with Qin Lie for help. With tears in his eyes and a heavy heart, Qin Lie had no choice but to seal her within a block of ice using his essence of frost, promising to find a way to save her.
Pan Qianqian and Lian Rou kept vigil by Yiyuan's bedside, with Pan Qianqian clinging to the belief that he would recover, just as he had before. Qin Lie recalled that during Yiyuan's previous coma, he had seen Wu Chun and a young child. Seeming to grasp a new insight, Qin Lie decided to take Ling Yushi to the Abyss. He asked Chu to stay and protect Pan Qianqian and Lian Rou, while he escorted Ling Yushi. Chu, as Qin Lie's spirit artifact, readily agreed, vowing to protect them with his life.
Episode 32 Recap
Yang Yi confessed to Master Hua, Hua Tianqiong, that the mission he was carrying out under the Master of Heaven's orders had failed due to his incompetence. Master Hua expressed his disappointment, stating that it was easy to die but difficult to find a remedy, and announced that his people would help. He then summoned Hua Yuxing to tie up loose ends. Meanwhile, Yiyuan, while still unconscious, found himself back in the illusion, watching a strange child appear before him.
Qin Lie returned to the Nether Realm underground with Ling Yushi. He instructed Xie Jingxuan and Du Shaoyang to protect Ling Yushi while he ventured alone into the center of the Purple Mist Sea to find Night Fairy. Upon locating Night Fairy, Qin Lie realized she had protected him when Ling Yushi tried to assassinate him.
Night Fairy, however, was unwilling to reveal anything about the events of ten thousand years ago, only stating that it would not do him any good to know too much and that she did not want him to awaken first or learn the past. Qin Lie, acknowledging her past suffering as Gong Mulie's companion and mentor, pleaded with her to spare Ling Yushi.
Night Fairy responded with deep concern, revealing that Du Shaoyang was now beyond her control and the future was unpredictable. Realizing that Du Shaoyang was the real traitor, Qin Lie grew worried and rushed back to the Nether Realm underground. In the Nether Realm, Du Shaoyang attempted to summon the ancient Voodoo Insects left by the Voodoo Master, declaring himself the Voodoo Master's chosen successor and new leader of the Voodoo Cult, but his efforts failed.
Unbeknownst to him, Xie Jingxuan had been secretly observing him and was shocked by his transformation. She fled the scene but was intercepted by Du Shaoyang. Feigning composure, Xie Jingxuan agreed to go with him to a tavern, reminiscing about their old relationship and the times she had danced for him. Xie Jingxuan then drank a glass of poisoned wine, intending to share it with Du Shaoyang, but he detected the poison and pushed her away.
She accused him of changing due to jealousy, while he blamed others for favoring Qin Lie. Remembering their past affection, Du Shaoyang chose not to harm her, but warned her that if she ever crossed him again, he would kill her. Du Shaoyang soon encountered Qin Lie in the Purple Mist Sea. Qin Lie, enraged by Du Shaoyang's repeated betrayals—first for Nebula Pavilion, then for the Human Race, and now for his own ambition and envy—was about to attack.
However, Hua Tianqiong intervened with his spiritual power, allowing Du Shaoyang to escape. Xie Jingxuan, heartbroken, pursued Du Shaoyang. Hua Tianqiong reported his progress to the Master of Heaven, deliberately omitting the whereabouts of the second volume of the Scripture of the Nine Hells. After the Master of Heaven departed, Hua Yuxing appeared, informing his father that Du Shaoyang had escaped with Xie Jingxuan in pursuit, and that Duan Qianjie had also returned, seemingly interested in Xie Jingxuan.
Hua Tianqiong immediately ordered the execution of Duan Qianjie. Du Shaoyang returned to the underground where the Voodoo Insect warned him that his heart still harbored feelings of love, which was an obstacle to inheriting the Voodoo Master's power. To prove his resolve, Du Shaoyang found Ling Yushi and awakened the Voodoo Insect within her, planning to steal her Scripture of the Nine Hells. However, Xie Jingxuan stopped him. Du Shaoyang then feigned remorse, attempting to reconcile with Xie Jingxuan.
As she approached, he suddenly drew a blade and lunged at her. Sensing his murderous intent, Xie Jingxuan bravely caught the blade with her bare hand. Before her sorrow could fully set in, Duan Qianjie abruptly appeared and stabbed Du Shaoyang. It was revealed that Duan Qianjie needed to comprehend "love" to achieve his awakening, and recognizing Xie Jingxuan as his "love tribulation," he had come to protect her.
Despite Du Shaoyang's betrayal, Xie Jingxuan was devastated to see him wounded and fleeing. She pursued him relentlessly until he was carried away by a Voodoo Insect. Duan Qianjie tried to take Xie Jingxuan away, but she fiercely resisted. Left with no choice, he forcibly teleported her from the scene. Meanwhile, Ling Yushi, previously manipulated by Du Shaoyang to abandon her emotions to assassinate Qin Lie, awakened with no trace of kindness in her eyes.
Qin Lie and his companions awoke to find themselves in Ling Borough, where they were shocked to see Uncle Hua, whom they believed to be dead. Hua Tianqiong, still in disguise as Uncle Hua, feigned ignorance, claiming that Qin Shan had saved him and entrusted him to house them in Ling Borough to protect them from the Gold rank force. Qin Lie pressed him for Qin Shan's whereabouts, but "Uncle Hua" claimed to know nothing.
He then abruptly struck Qin Lie, knocking him unconscious. In his unconscious state, Qin Lie saw Qin Shan, who explained that the two bloodlines within Qin Lie could not merge and that he must first refine his mind to eliminate hostility before seeking the truth. Upon regaining consciousness, Qin Lie confronted "Uncle Hua" about his true identity. "
Uncle Hua" was evasive before revealing Yiyuan's true identity: Yiyuan and Yuxin were one and the same, a pure being created by Gong Mushan to purify Gong Mulie's hostility and protect Qin Lie throughout his life. Hearing the truth, Pan Qianqian wept in anguish, cradling Yiyuan's hand. Miraculously, as her tears fell upon Yiyuan, his wounds rapidly healed, and he suddenly sat up, awake. Seeing a worried Pan Qianqian and Lian Rou before him, Yiyuan, without hesitation, embraced Pan Qianqian. Lian Rou, though aware of Yiyuan's changed affections, felt a profound sense of loss.
Episode 33 Recap
In the Purple Mist Sea, Hua Yuxing mistakenly brought Chu Li along. He informed his father, Hua Tianqiong, who then ordered Chu Li to return to the Terminator Sect, stating he had nothing more to do with the current affairs. Chu Li initially resisted, asserting his role as a spirit artifact for Gong Mulie and his desire to protect his brother.
However, under Hua Tianqiong's forceful persuasion, Chu Li relented, agreeing to leave while asking Hua Tianqiong to look after his brother. Hua Yuxing later asked his father if things were "sorted out," to which Hua Tianqiong cryptically replied that it was "just a beginning." Yiyuan woke up, immediately embracing Pan Qianqian and expressing his relief at being alive. Lian Rou observed this, acknowledging Yiyuan's change of heart and approving of his newfound affection for Qianqian.
Pan Qianqian wept with emotion, and Yiyuan consoled her. Yiyuan then reunited with Qin Lie, affirming his true identity as Yuxin, who grew up with Qin Lie, and pledging their unbreakable bond. Lian Rou inquired about Yiyuan's two resurrections, which he admitted he didn't fully understand. Prioritizing Ling Yushi's safety, Qin Lie decided they should seek her out immediately, believing his grandpa and Uncle Hua had already handled matters concerning Chu Li, Du Shaoyang, and Tang Siqi.
Upon finding Ling Yushi, Qin Lie was met with her coldness. Ling Yushi accused Qin Lie of false promises and negligence, declaring that she wanted to end their relationship. She then exposed Ling Xuanxuan (formerly known as Pan Qianqian) for pretending to have amnesia, despite having regained her memories in the Graveyard. Ling Xuanxuan tearfully explained she continued the pretense to spare Yiyuan sadness.
Ling Yushi, however, invited her sister to join her in exterminating the Human Race and rejuvenating their own, threatening to kill anyone who stood in her way, including Qin Lie. Recognizing Ling Yushi was controlled by the Supreme Voodoo Insect, Qin Lie swiftly activated the Spirit Pillar, specifically the Healing Pillar, to confine her and attempt to cure her Voodoo poison. Ling Yushi scoffed, doubting the pillar could hold her, but Qin Lie's intention was to heal, not merely confine.
To his surprise, Yiyuan could see that the Healing Pillar was filled with a "sea of Yixin leaves," a sight invisible to Ling Xuanxuan and Qin Lie. Ling Yushi also seemed to recognize the Yixin leaves, remarking that they were spiritual herbs only she could cultivate. Lian Rou hypothesized that Yiyuan's unique vision might be linked to his two resurrections.
After a brief flashback of a child planting Yixin leaves, Yiyuan suddenly remembered, exclaiming that he was that child, and the one who planted the Yixin leaves, a fact he emphasized to the bewildered Qin Lie and Ling Xuanxuan. Inside the Healing Pillar, Ling Yushi recalled a vision from the Scripture of the Nine Hells where she killed Qin Lie, asserting that she didn't need to know more about the past. She remained hostile, insisting on killing Qin Lie.
Realizing his connection to the Yixin leaves, Yiyuan believed he could save Ling Yushi, but needed to die again to re-enter the illusion. He implored Qin Lie, Ling Xuanxuan, and Lian Rou to kill him, even attempting to take his own life but failing. Ling Xuanxuan suspected he too might be under the influence of the Supreme Voodoo Insect.
When Ling Xuanxuan couldn't bring herself to harm him, Lian Rou stepped forward, explaining her belief in Yiyuan and her lack of emotional attachment made her suitable for the task. She stabbed Yiyuan. Ling Xuanxuan cradled Yiyuan's increasingly cold body, fearing he wouldn't awaken. Meanwhile, a distant voice noted Yiyuan's infection by the Voodoo Insect but observed, "He can't be dead then. He did it!" suggesting his sacrifice was successful.
Duan Qianjie relentlessly followed Xie Jingxuan, seeking to understand his burgeoning feelings for her. Xie Jingxuan, reflecting on her love and obsession for Du Shaoyang, recounted her own painful journey, changing from her former self into a timid and humble person consumed by worry for Du Shaoyang. She detailed her failed attempts to kill him and his subsequent attempts on her life, questioning the tragic outcome.
When Duan Qianjie asked for help to comprehend love, Xie Jingxuan, noting his inexperience, challenged him to close his eyes and "feel what you want to feel," before kissing him. Hua Tianqiong, observing with Hua Yuxing, explained that a mere kiss wouldn't bring enlightenment without understanding causation, revealing that Duan Qianjie was the son of Zhu You, a formidable Witch Master of the Suoluo Realm. Hua Tianqiong then transferred memories to Duan Qianjie.
In a flashback, Zhu You congratulated his son, Qianjie, on completing his cultivation and understanding various aspects of life, including love. Qianjie described his first encounter with love in the Colourless Realm, feeling both heartbeats, and realizing why people become entrapped by it. He affirmed he had severed his ties to love, believing it to be a personal joy that hinders enlightenment. Zhu You praised Qianjie's high comprehension and named him "Qianjie" in anticipation of his future trials.
Qianjie offered to become a spirit artifact to lead the Golden Legion against the God Race. Zhu You instructed him to climb the Thoughtful Mountain, a path where all his past tribulations would resurface. Another flashback revealed Qianjie departing from a woman named Sang Ying, whom he claimed he would not remember, stating his love for her was merely a means to achieve emotional detachment.
Back in the present, enlightened by these memories, Duan Qianjie realized he had only experienced love, not truly understood or transcended it, admitting his regret regarding Sang Ying. A voice from within the memory, presumably Zhu You's, then offered to "end it" for him. Duan Qianjie then pushed Xie Jingxuan away, recognizing her as the source of his "love tribulation" and questioning her actions.
Inside the Healing Pillar, Ling Yushi, still under the Supreme Voodoo Insect's control, rebuffed Qin Lie's attempts to connect with her past affections, asserting her resolve to kill him. Qin Lie discovered that the Yixin leaves were ineffective, as Ling Yushi's palm remained cold, indicating the Voodoo Insect's continued dominance. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Qin Lie led Ling Yushi to the Thunder Pillar, intending to use its power to end her struggle and, if necessary, die with her.
As the Voodoo Insect prepared to strike, a sudden counter-attack injured Ling Yushi. She revealed this was her own blood, the blood of the Nether Race Queen, which she had embedded within Qin Lie during her recuperation. This was a failsafe, designed to kill her if the Voodoo Insect ever compelled her to harm Qin Lie, as she anticipated her own potential murderous intent.
She expressed surprise that Qin Lie would choose to die with her, noting it was the first time she had seen him cry for her, and found contentment in knowing she held a place in his heart. While regretting not knowing their ancient past, Qin Lie assured her that only their future mattered, promising to carry her in his heart and share all experiences.
At this profound moment, the Scripture of the Nine Hells was reactivated, displaying visions from the past. A grown Gong Mulie confronted Wuchun, demanding information about his father. Wuchun perceived his anger stemmed from both determination and a broken promise. Gong Mulie accused Wuchun of failing to uphold her promise to return and find him. The vision then showed a younger Gong Mulie being ambushed by numerous attackers.
Wuchun rescued him, remarking on the dishonorable nature of so many ambushing a child. She brought him to the Deserted Spirits Realm, a peaceful place away from conflict, but refused to disclose the reasons for the attack, stating he wasn't powerful enough to protect himself. She promised that once he was strong enough, if the truth remained hidden, she would reveal it to him, assuring him that "People at the Deserted Spirits Realm will keep their promises."
The vision returned to the adult Gong Mulie, who challenged Wuchun about her unkept promise, to which Wuchun evasively claimed she was too busy fulfilling her duties as the "next Mother of Earth."
Episode 34 Recap
Gong Mulie confronted Wuchun, accusing her of breaking a promise and forgetting him. Wuchun claimed she was occupied, training daily as the next Mother of Earth. However, Gong Mulie countered, revealing he had been secretly observing her and knew she had plenty of time. He pressed her, asking if she thought of him daily, and she admitted that she did. He then demanded to know why she never came to find him. Wuchun remained silent, unable to explain.
At that moment, Chongming appeared, clarifying that Wuchun was neither hypocritical nor cowardly; Chongming herself had forbidden Wuchun from seeing him. Chongming revealed that Gong Mulie’s mother, Xuan Luo, a valorous general of the God Race, broke a taboo by falling in love with Gongmu Hao of the Gongmu family and giving birth to Gong Mulie. Gong Mulie's dual bloodlines, one human and one from the Divine Race, could not merge, with the ruthless Divine Race blood dominating.
Chongming explained that Xuan Luo was cursed by the God Race for her transgression, her hair turning gray overnight, causing her to age rapidly. Before her disappearance, she entrusted Gong Mulie to Chongming to be raised by the Gongmu family. Chongming also disclosed that the attempts on Gong Mulie's life were by human forces from the Golden Force of the Surah Realm.
Chongming emphasized that the Mother of Earth and the son of the God of War could not fall in love, warning that if their affection became known, disaster would strike before they could truly be together. She left the decision of their future to them: to fight for their love or to forget each other.
Wuchun confessed that she hadn't dared to seek him out, not due to her mother’s prohibition, but because she feared he had forgotten her, especially after seeing him constantly accompanied by Night Fairy while he cultivated with the Spirit Pattern Pillar. She admitted she had been secretly watching him too. Meanwhile, Duan Qianjie, having awakened as the son of the Master of Spells, recalled his past.
He explained that his father, angered by his love-related cultivation failure, sealed him in the Gongmu family's Spirit Pattern Pillar for self-cultivation. Duan Qianjie believed Xie Jingxuan was Sang Ying, a woman he loved ten thousand years ago, who had returned to demand a debt.
Xie Jingxuan, perplexed by his accusations, proposed they settle their past by traveling to the Graveyard of Gods using the Demon Sealing Tombstone to destroy Jiang Yan's remains, promising that if they succeeded, their debt would be cleared. At the Graveyard of Gods, as Xie Jingxuan prepared to act, Du Shaoyang appeared. Having learned directly from Jiang Yan and absorbed all the voodoo master's remaining voodoo energy, Du Shaoyang had become powerful enough to defeat Duan Qianjie.
Seeing Duan Qianjie in peril, Xie Jingxuan used Duan Qianjie's father's boomerang to strike Du Shaoyang, but she intentionally held back, leaving him a chance to live. Du Shaoyang, realizing she hadn't used her full strength, quickly recovered and continued his attack on Duan Qianjie.
As Duan Qianjie prepared to deliver a fatal blow with the boomerang, Xie Jingxuan leapt in front of Du Shaoyang, shielding him, and used her remaining strength to push him away from the Graveyard of Gods. Duan Qianjie was stunned by accidentally killing Xie Jingxuan. As she lay dying, she implored him to remember the love and life he owed her and to grant Du Shaoyang a final chance to atone.
She explained that true love was not about forgetting, but about burying it deep in one's heart. Through her sacrifice, Duan Qianjie was enlightened, realizing that Xie Jingxuan was not Sang Ying and that he had finally overcome his love tribulation. He found a quiet spot in the snow-capped mountains and buried her, then turned and left.
Observing the scene, Hua Tianqiong noted that Xie Jingxuan’s death allowed Duan Qianjie to comprehend love, in effect granting her a form of rebirth. In the Deserted Spirits Realm, Tian Zun appeared and accused Wuchun of spreading rumors about Gongmu Hao, the God of War, being alive. Chongming fiercely defended Wuchun, calling it a false accusation and suggesting Tian Zun's true motive was the Scripture of the Nine Hells.
Tian Zun sentenced Wuchun to the Six Heaven Fire Formation, which could either kill her or strip her of her cultivation. Gong Mulie, after dealing with Night Fairy using his spirit pattern pillars, rushed to Wuchun’s aid. He confronted Tian Zun, stating that Wuchun was merely searching for her father, not spreading rumors, and challenged Tian Zun's unreasonable ban on entering the Deserted Spirits Realm.
Gong Mulie then unleashed Sheng Xie, fighting against Tian Zun's Six Heaven Fire Formation, causing widespread chaos. Chongming struggled to protect her people from the fire. Gong Mulie, intent on saving Wuchun, bravely entered the formation, planning to use the power of the Divine Race to break it. Wuchun revealed that only the Scripture of the Nine Hells could break the formation, but it would cost her all her cultivation.
Knowing Gong Mulie's stubborn nature, Wuchun urged him to forget her, believing that a brief reunion after ten years of longing was not worth his life. Gong Mulie refused, asserting that even a single moment with her was a lifetime. Wuchun, using a dagger to draw her blood, cast a Forbidden Curse on Gong Mulie with the royal blood of the Nether Race, decreeing that he would never love her unless he hated her.
She then used the Scripture of the Nine Hells to break the Six Heaven Fire Formation, but in doing so, lost all her cultivation. After the formation was broken, Gong Mushan and Hua Tianqiong appeared to intercede. Hua Tianqiong argued that further conflict would be detrimental, reminding Tian Zun of the heavy losses from the previous war between humans and the Divine Race.
Considering the overall situation, Tian Zun agreed to spare Gong Mulie's life but decreed that both Gong Mulie and Wuchun be put into an enchanted sleep in a barren badlands, never to awaken without his permission. Gong Mushan provided a spirit artifact to protect Gong Mulie during his slumber. Sheng Xie, Duan Qianjie, and Tong Xin (in his form as Yiyuan) voluntarily entered Gong Mulie's body to protect him. Chongming then sealed Wuchun deep beneath the sea.
Qin Lie and Ling Yushi, having witnessed these events from the past, finally understood the truth of their origins. Ling Yushi realized that she, in her past life as Wuchun, had cast the Forbidden Curse on Gong Mulie. Ling Yushi's voodoo poison was absorbed by Tong Xin, who had fully awakened from Yiyuan and restored her to health. Duan Qianjie, having overcome his love tribulation, also fully awakened as a spirit artifact.
He informed Qin Lie that Du Shaoyang had inherited all the remaining voodoo master's powers and that Xie Jingxuan had died. Duan Qianjie then transformed into a spirit artifact and entered Qin Lie’s mind, pledging to assist him when he fully awakened to lead the Legion of Titans. Tong Xin, formed from a leaf of heart, confirmed his ability to heal and rid Lie of poison.
As he prepared to join Gong Mulie, he bade farewell to Wuchun, promising to reunite when she awakened. Ling Yushi, still processing her complex past and the intertwined identities of Yuxin, Yiyuan, and Tong Xin, wondered how to reconcile her feelings for her past self's love, now that Tong Xin was within Qin Lie.
Episode 35 Recap
Pan Qianqian lay on Ling Yushi's shoulder, deeply missing Yi Yuan. As she drifted off to sleep, she dreamed of Yi Yuan, a reunion where they expressed their love, knowing it was their final farewell. Though they exchanged barbs, neither could truly let go. Yi Yuan urged her to find someone else to love, someone who would treat her kindly, quarrel and play with her, and grow old with her.
Pan Qianqian, though heartbroken and shedding tears in her dream, agreed to seek such a person, asserting that this new person would be no less than him. Yi Yuan began to confess his feelings, but Pan Qianqian stopped him, reminding him not to utter those forbidden words. As Yi Yuan prepared to leave, Pan Qianqian, despite her heartbreak, bid him farewell.
Yi Yuan then told her that a person's heart can change, and one can love again, to which Pan Qianqian replied, "I know." Meanwhile, Du Shaoyang continued his cultivation deep within the Netherworld, his inner demons intensifying. He bristled at the thought of always being subservient to Qin Lie and always being at a disadvantage, growing increasingly discontent. He declared, "I am my own person. Don't you dare think that I would be less than you forever."
Chu Li, determined to find Qin Lie, was caught by Hua Tianqiong while trying to sneak off. Hua Tianqiong initially attempted to send him back home, but seeing Chu Li's unwavering loyalty and willingness to sacrifice himself for friendship, he disclosed Qin Lie's location in Ling Borough and allowed him to leave. Shortly after Chu Li's departure, Hua Tianqiong sensed the activation of the Six Heaven Fire Formation, a formidable trap.
He worried that Gongmu Shan and possibly Gongmu Hao were caught within it. His subordinate warned him that only the ancient Scripture of the Nine Hells could break the formation, making any rescue attempt suicidal. Despite the danger, Hua Tianqiong resolved to act, musing that sacrificing for loyalty was noble. He instructed his subordinate to keep a close watch on Du Shaoyang but to avoid intervention, believing their grievances should be resolved between themselves.
Qin Lie and Ling Yushi looked up at the dark sky, reminiscing about their shared past. Qin Lie confessed his deepest fear: as the day of Gong Mulie's awakening drew near, he worried that his current self, Qin Lie, would fade away, leaving behind those he cherished, especially Ling Yushi, and perhaps not loving her as deeply. He stated, "I'm afraid of losing you the most."
Ling Yushi reassured him, promising to remain by his side, whether he was Qin Lie or Gong Mulie, and stating she had no regrets. In a spontaneous act of devotion, they held hands and went to the deserted ancestral hall. Facing the empty seats, they bowed to heaven and earth, sealing their union. Ling Yushi explained that their happiness would bring joy to their ancestors.
Qin Lie spoke of his annual wish to the moon: to grow old with her, a wish now fulfilled. Ling Yushi then spoke of the ancient curse she cast to save him, which could only be broken if Qin Lie hated her. She declared she would never regret her decision, adding, "But I would rather die than let you hate me." Qin Lie proposed they perform one more act they would never regret, and Ling Yushi agreed wholeheartedly.
With the snow and ice as their witnesses and the wind and clouds as their matchmakers, Qin Lie and Ling Yushi of Ling Borough in the far north pledged their lives to each other, vowing to be together through everything, without regret, and sealed their promises with water as wine. Later, Chu Li appeared in Ling Borough, causing Qin Lie, who was not expecting him, to mistake him for an intruder and almost injure him with spiritual power.
Chu Li, recovering, apologized to Ling Yushi for "using her new house" after being hit. He then asked for their next move. Ling Yushi decided they should head to the Graveyard of Gods, their only lead to Du Shaoyang. Qin Lie instructed everyone not to intervene if they encountered Du Shaoyang, as he had his own plan.
He tried to persuade Pan Qianqian to stay in Ling Borough to avoid further danger, but she adamantly refused, declaring her regret at past departures and her intention to follow him wherever he went. Chu Li playfully mocked her tear-stained face, suggesting she was too vulnerable to join, but Pan Qianqian fiercely told him to shut up.
Meanwhile, Du Shaoyang, having fully embraced his role as the master of the Black Voodoo Cult and inherited all its voodoo insects, learned Qin Lie's location and led his disciples towards Ling Borough. He rallied them, reminding them that after ten thousand years of hiding, it was time to reclaim their glory using the ancestral voodoo insect. His disciples pledged their allegiance. The two parties converged on the vast snowfield. Du Shaoyang confronted Qin Lie, addressing him as "Master."
He recalled their first encounter ten thousand years ago, "when the moon was in its zenith." Qin Lie urged him to elaborate, stating that Du Shaoyang knew more about what happened between them ten thousand years ago. Du Shaoyang revealed his identity as a dagger, the very first spirit artifact Qin Lie had forged. He expressed his deep resentment at being an "insignificant dagger" instead of a powerful blade or protective armor.
Qin Lie explained that Du Shaoyang was originally a formidable weapon, shattered in battle, and he had painstakingly reforged its essence into a dagger to save it from ruin. He admitted that it was the best he could do and had promised to lead Du Shaoyang into battle. However, Du Shaoyang bitterly recounted that Qin Lie had never drawn him from his sheath, except once, when Ling Yushi had used him to stab Qin Lie himself, thus casting the ban.
He accused Qin Lie of using him in "the battlefield of love" rather than for war, and declared his current attack was to use Qin Lie's blood to compensate for his hatred and grievance from ten millennia ago. Qin Lie conceded that he understood Du Shaoyang's bitterness and offered his own blood to cleanse the anger, deliberately enduring Du Shaoyang's attack without fighting back. Ling Yushi, seeing three Ghost Eye Race members fleeing, instructed Pan Qianqian to save them.
As Qin Lie bled, Ling Yushi came forward to heal his wounds. Qin Lie then admitted that he had long known Du Shaoyang was his spirit artifact, but had harbored doubts about their complex relationship, wondering about Du Shaoyang's repeated betrayals and his own apprehension. He acknowledged that he had failed Du Shaoyang both ten thousand years ago and in the present.
He told Du Shaoyang that if he didn't wish to be a dagger, he could simply be Du Shaoyang, a person. Qin Lie added that if he had the choice, he would rather be Qin Lie than Gong Mulie. Du Shaoyang, asserting his desire to be a human with all the emotions and joys of life, declared that they were no longer indebted to each other, and they would go their separate ways, hoping to never cross paths again.
Suddenly, the surroundings warped, and they found themselves in a different setting, with ancient venerables attacking Jiang Yan, the Voodoo Master. Jiang Yan recognized them as "people from ten thousand years later," explaining that he had buried the First Voodoo Insect's power in the Spirit Realm to await a chosen person to bring them back and save him from his current predicament. Du Shaoyang, enraged at being manipulated, vowed to kill Jiang Yan.
Ling Yushi, realizing that her Power of Earth was inexplicably useless and the sand beneath her feet felt chillingly cold, suspected a deception. She asked Qin Lie to cover her while she delved into Jiang Yan's consciousness, wanting to understand his mind and uncover the truth. Meanwhile, Pan Qianqian and Chu Li had caught up with the three Ghost Eye Race members.
Chu Li, intent on using his Terminator Profound Bomb to "help them repent," was fiercely stopped by Pan Qianqian, who reminded him of Ling Yushi's command to save them. The bomb, though stopped from a fatal blow, still detonated, killing the voodoo insects within the Ghost Eye Race members, who promptly demanded compensation. When Chu Li suggested they now bomb Du Shaoyang, the three quickly revealed that it was not Du Shaoyang's doing but Night Fairy's.
Within Jiang Yan's consciousness, Ling Yushi encountered Night Fairy, who acknowledged that her illusion had been discovered. Ling Yushi explained her deductions: the Power of Earth's failure, the unexpected coldness of the "sand" (which she reasoned was ice and snow, consistent with Ling Borough in the far north), and the realization that they had never left Ling Borough, and the "ten thousand years ago" was a mere illusion.
The final clue came when "Jiang Yan" had urged Du Shaoyang, a spirit artifact, to return to his master. Ling Yushi questioned how Jiang Yan, the Voodoo Master, would possess such specific knowledge. She ultimately concluded that the intense resentment she felt emanating from "Jiang Yan" could only belong to Night Fairy. Night Fairy, impressed by Ling Yushi's intelligence, expressed a playful fear that Ling Yushi might cease to hate her. Ling Yushi, now certain of Night Fairy's involvement, pressed her for her true intentions.
Episode 36 (Ending) Recap
Ling Yushi discovered that the world of ten thousand years ago was merely an illusion created by Night Fairy. Ling Yushi confronted her, realizing that the supposed slayers from the Surah Realm were actually the Voodoo Master's First Voodoo Insects, controlled by Night Fairy. However, Night Fairy claimed that because Ling Yushi had forced her into a deep sleep, the insects were now uncontrolled and could act brutally without her instructions.
Ling Yushi attempted to escape Night Fairy's divine sense, but Night Fairy, as the master of her own divine sense, easily trapped her, asserting that even the Mother of Earth was subject to her control there. Ling Yushi then deduced that Night Fairy had deliberately exposed a detail about Du Shaoyang being a spirit artifact to lure her into the illusion, and was now delaying her.
Night Fairy confirmed this, stating that Ling Yushi was more composed than Qin Lie, and that everything would unfold in due time. Meanwhile, Qin Lie and Du Shaoyang were fiercely battling the overwhelming Voodoo Insects outside the illusion. Qin Lie, seeing their desperate situation, bravely pushed Du Shaoyang away, urging him to flee and become human, while he stayed behind to face the attacks alone. Du Shaoyang watched in horror as Qin Lie was severely wounded and spat blood.
Unable to bear it, Du Shaoyang awakened as a spirit artifact and injected himself into Qin Lie's brain. With all spirit artifacts now gathered, Qin Lie truly awakened, transforming into Gong Mulie. Night Fairy sensed Gong Mulie's awakening and was pleased. She explained to Ling Yushi that she had initially tried to prevent Gong Mulie's awakening, but Qin Lie's profound love for Ling Yushi had unexpectedly broken the Forbidden Curse placed on him by Wuchun.
Therefore, her new plan was to ensure Gong Mulie's awakening, as this would cause the Forbidden Curse to exert its maximum effect, ensuring he would no longer feel any affection for Ling Yushi. At this, Song Tingyu's voice emerged within Night Fairy's consciousness, pleading with her to stop and warning that Gong Mulie would hate her. Night Fairy, however, suppressed Song Tingyu, calling her a mere substitute and declaring that the man she loved would never love her again.
When Night Fairy and Ling Yushi returned to their physical bodies, they saw Gong Mulie standing before them. Qin Lie's gentle demeanor was gone, replaced by a cold, violent Gong Mulie. Ling Yushi tried to warn him that the entire situation was an illusion created by Night Fairy. Night Fairy welcomed Gong Mulie, expressing how much she had missed him and lamenting his ten-thousand-year slumber. Gong Mulie, however, coldly ordered her to leave and dismissed her concerns about his actions.
He then turned to Ling Yushi, demanding an explanation for what was happening. In the snowy plains, Chu Li, Pan Qianqian, and the three Ghost Eye Race members were searching for Qin Lie and the others. The Ghost Eye Race quickly discovered that Ling Yushi and their companions were trapped within Night Fairy's illusion. Gong Mulie interrogated Night Fairy, demanding to know how she acquired the Voodoo Master's First Voodoo Insects.
Night Fairy revealed that she had been trapped in the Graveyard of Gods for ten thousand years. There, she sensed the Voodoo Master and discovered the buried First Voodoo Insects. Her initial intention was to use them to control Du Shaoyang to recover the first spirit artifact, but she was injured by Sheng Xie. She then feigned repentance, hid in the Spirit Pillar to heal, and patiently waited for her moment.
When Du Shaoyang attempted to use the Voodoo Insects against her, she seized the opportunity to inject a fire diagram into their bodies, regaining control. She then explained her elaborate plan: she used the Ghost Eye Race to track them to Ling Town, hoping to lure Du Shaoyang into awakening as the last spirit artifact.
When Qin Lie refused to awaken, choosing instead to let Du Shaoyang escape, she created the illusion of the Voodoo Master's death ten thousand years ago, forcing them to awaken in a moment of crisis. Gong Mulie acknowledged her ruthlessness in almost killing Qin Lie. Night Fairy countered that such minor injuries were inconsequential as long as he awakened. Gong Mulie then asked if she would have preferred him to die rather than be with another woman, which she affirmed.
Night Fairy then reminded Gong Mulie of her loyalty as his mentor and friend, having waited ten thousand years for him, only to be struck by his hand. Gong Mulie countered that she deserved it for stopping him in the past and plotting against him now. Night Fairy, heartbroken and enraged, declared that since he refused to live with her, they would die together, and unleashed the power of the Voodoo Insects against him.
Observing the illusion from outside, Pan Qianqian and Chu Li saw it nearing collapse. Pan Qianqian urged Chu Li to act quickly. Chu Li, a master of thunder cultivation from the Terminator Sect, decided to use a dangerous technique, essentially transforming himself into a "human bomb" to break the illusion. He explained the method to Pan Qianqian, assuring her he wouldn't die but acknowledging his skill was not yet perfect and he would need her help to deploy himself.
Pan Qianqian, though hesitant, agreed. Chu Li transformed and, with Pan Qianqian's aid, detonated, shattering the illusion and returning everyone to the snowy plains. With the illusion broken, Night Fairy faced Gong Mulie's sword. She acknowledged that he would never love her. She reflected that her very existence was his creation, and if he had no love for her, then they were no longer bound. With a resolute look, she walked towards the extended sword, allowing it to pierce her.
As the blade sank deep, Night Fairy's body dissolved into the wind, vanishing without a trace, while Gong Mulie watched silently. After Night Fairy's demise, Gong Mulie commanded Du Shaoyang to kneel. Du Shaoyang initially resisted, stating he didn't want to submit. Gong Mulie revealed that Du Shaoyang was once a long spear of the God Race, destined to be a master-killer. Gong Mulie expressed his disdain for predetermined fates and all that was "natural."
He explained that Du Shaoyang had killed his former master to uphold the dignity of the God Race, which was why he existed as Du Shaoyang. Gong Mulie asserted that only he could truly connect with Du Shaoyang, and only through sincere obedience could Du Shaoyang truly become his spirit artifact. When Du Shaoyang questioned if Gong Mulie feared his inherent master-killing nature, Gong Mulie replied that no spirit artifact desired such a reputation, implying Du Shaoyang's unique loyalty.
He concluded that only Du Shaoyang could change his fate, and this was his sole opportunity. Hearing this, Du Shaoyang submitted and became Gong Mulie's loyal spirit artifact. Gong Mulie then prepared to depart, but Ling Yushi stepped forward, attempting to block his path. Due to the lingering Forbidden Curse, Gong Mulie felt no love for Ling Yushi and callously attacked her. As Ling Yushi's body flew through the air, memories of her past resurfaced, and she awakened as Wuchun.
Despite her transformation, Gong Mulie continued his journey towards the Surah Realm. To stop him, Wuchun used the Forbidden Curse "The universe is turned upside down," manipulating space and time to bring him back. Enraged by Wuchun's obstruction, Gong Mulie impaled her with a spirit artifact. This act of profound hatred, however, ironically broke the Forbidden Curse.
Realizing the curse was lifted, Gong Mulie's tightly clenched fist loosened, and he looked at Wuchun in disbelief, heartbroken as he watched his beloved dying by his own hand. At that moment, Hua Yuxing appeared.
He informed them that the three Ghost Eye Race members possessed the ability to use the power vested in them by the earth to aid in the restoration of the Mother of Earth, suggesting that by returning Wuchun, as the Mother of Earth, to the earth, she might have a chance at regeneration. As Chu Li and Pan Qianqian urged him to release her, Gong Mulie placed Wuchun into the earth.
Wuchun, in her dying moments, apologized, explaining that she had made him hate her so the curse would break, forcing him to witness the pain of killing his beloved, because she wanted to prevent him from going to his death. She reflected on their love and hate spanning ten thousand years, acknowledging that hatred cannot exist without love.
Wuchun then asked Gong Mulie to promise he would never enter the Surah Realm until the time was right and he was truly ready. Gong Mulie, now free from the curse and filled with remorse, promised to prove his love to her with his entire life, as both Gong Mulie and Qin Lie, because she was his wife.
Wuchun gave him her "last leaf of heart," stating her soul would remain there to be with him forever, but if he ever found another person he loved, he should cast it away, concluding that she only needed him in her life. With Wuchun's essence returned to the earth, Gong Mulie, now accompanied by the Four Spirit Artifacts, declared his resolve to journey to the Surah Realm to uncover the whereabouts of his father and grandfather.
He invited anyone willing to "conquer" with him to join, promising not to hinder those who wished to take their own paths. He harbored a silent hope that Wuchun would awaken upon his return. Du Shaoyang, eager to follow, transformed from his child-like form into an adult, and Gong Mulie accepted him.
Chu Li and Pan Qianqian, along with the Ghost Eye Race members, decided to stay behind to protect the Mother of Earth's regeneration, requesting spirit stones to aid the process, which Chu Li promised to provide. Chu Li also advised Xuanxuan that a person's heart can change, and one can always fall in love again. Under Gong Mulie's leadership, the group began their arduous new journey to the Surah Realm, ready to fight for justice and the Spirit Realm.
