Tiger and Crane Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Tiger and Crane Synopsis
The optimistic and cheerful mountain orphan, Hu Zi, accidentally swallows a red pearl and befriends Qi Xiaoxuan, who is a captain of the national demon hunter.
The two young men with very different personalities are forced to go on the road together because of a red pearl, and they meet Zhao Xintong, Wang Yuqian, Shan Cha, and other partners.
They go from disliking each other to being attracted by the differences and "sparkling" in each other. After some adventures, they become best friends. Qi Xiaoxuan falls into prison to protect Hu Zi.
In order to save Qi Xiaoxuan, Hu Zi and his companions participate in the selection process for the National Demon Hunter. But as a result, they uncover the conspiracy of the National Demon Hunter and find out the truth about the war between humans and demons 500 years ago.
As the demon army, suppressed for 500 years, intends to destroy the human world, the master of the State Demon Hunter attempts to take advantage of the chaos to dominate the world.
Just when the ambitions of both the human and demon worlds are about to bring about a catastrophe on earth, the group of young men with dreams save the world at the risk of self-sacrifice.
Tiger and Crane Recap
Episode 1 Recap
A long time ago, the Oriental Continent was overrun by rampant demons, causing widespread suffering. To restore peace, five young demon slayers, leading an army of demonologists, journeyed to Peak Valley, the birthplace of demons. There, they slew the Demon Emperor, sacrificing themselves to save humanity. The Demon Emperor's blood transformed into the Netherworld Sea, a fiery expanse that cleaved the unified continent into three distinct lands: Fulong, Qianyu, and Julun.
To combat the encroaching Netherworld Sea, the demonologists of these three nations forged an alliance, crafting a vast formation using sacred Red Pearls to hold back the sea and safeguard the people. Five centuries later, peace reigns in the capital of Fulong, where storytellers recount the ancient tales to captivated children.
In the capital, Qi Xiaoxuan, the Commander of the White Camp of the Imperial Demonologists, waits patiently at Ju Xian Building for a cunning demon that has eluded his men for three blocks. The demon seizes a woman and her baby as hostages, but Qi Xiaoxuan calmly informs it that with the Imperial Demonologists' headquarters, Tiangang Hall, to the south and the demon prison, Yanluo Hall, to the north, there is no escape.
Qi Xiaoxuan swiftly eliminates the demon, and the Great Master, a being whose true form is a Purple Gold Wolf Hair brush, rescues the infant. Meanwhile, a grave incident unfolds at the Fulong Bay tower: the Red Pearl has fractured, causing the great formation to flicker. Elder Cheng Shu of the Elder Council dismisses the report, but the Chief of Disha Hall, Jiang Xici, and the Chief Commanding Master of Tiangang Hall, Qi Zilu, confirm the severity of the situation.
They discover a crack more than a finger long and conclude the pearl will not last more than ten days. A new Red Pearl must be found to prevent the formation's collapse. Qi Zilu initially considers sending his daughter, Qi Yanran, on the mission. However, Qi Xiaoxuan's grandmother, Jiang Xici, suggests that the newly appointed Xiaoxuan should go for the experience.
She presents him with a Traction Talisman, an artifact that resonates with the Red Pearl, and warns him that Jiuqu Mountain is treacherous and the new pearl will attract evil forces. Upon arriving at Jiuqu Mountain, Qi Xiaoxuan's team is ambushed by Huzi, a young man from Ruyun Village. He uses a trap with sleeping incense to incapacitate Qi Xiaoxuan’s men.
Calling himself "Master Hu of Jiuqu Mountain," Huzi boasts of his prowess but quickly dissolves into tearful pleas for mercy when he realizes Qi Xiaoxuan's strength. Qi Xiaoxuan dismisses him, but as he leaves, Huzi secretly snatches the Red Pearl. Huzi returns to Ruyun Village, a place where he is a beloved, helpful figure. As a reward for a child named Doggie who has been diligently taking his medicine, Huzi gifts him the stolen Red Pearl.
Elsewhere, Zhao Xintong, a bounty demonologist from Babao Town, drives customers out of a teahouse to confront its demon owner, but the creature escapes. That night, Ruyun Village is engulfed in flames. Huzi awakens and rushes to rescue villagers, including his Granny. Qi Xiaoxuan arrives and declares the fire is demon magic, noting the scattered, simultaneous ignitions and a distinct demonic aura.
He explains that Huzi's theft of the Red Pearl has attracted a demon seeking its power, which started the fire as a distraction. The village chief, learning Qi Xiaoxuan is a descendant of the legendary demonologist Qi Wuji, urges Huzi to help retrieve the pearl. A terrified Doggie confirms he no longer has it, leading Huzi to suspect it was dropped at his home.
They find the Red Pearl in Huzi's foul-smelling shoes; Huzi jokes that his "manly scent" must have masked the pearl's aura. However, as Qi Xiaoxuan prepares to leave, a demon disguised as Huzi ambushes him and steals the pearl. Qi Xiaoxuan mistakes the real Huzi for the demon and is about to strike when Zhao Xintong intervenes, having tracked the demon to the area.
The Great Master identifies the culprit as a Blood-sucking Demon, a creature known for its red eyes, fire magic, and ability to create clones. He explains that the demon needs time and human life essence to absorb the Red Pearl's power, meaning it is likely still in the village. If it fully absorbs the pearl, it will become unstoppable, and the only way to kill it is with a single strike to the heart.
They soon find the villagers, including the chief and Granny, entranced and having their life force drained by the demon. As the Blood-sucking Demon taunts them, boasting of its plan to destroy Fulong's three great halls and all demonologists, Huzi pleads with the others not to harm the innocent, controlled villagers.
Episode 2 Recap
In Ruyun Village, villagers, controlled by a Blood-absorbing Demon, attacked Hu Zi. Zhao Xintong intervened, effortlessly tossing some of them aside, while Hu Zi pleaded with her, Qi Xiaoxuan, and the Eldest Master not to harm the innocent villagers. He understood they were under the demon's influence, and as a result, the group, despite their formidable skills, held back their full power, which put them at a disadvantage.
Hu Zi, lacking any magical abilities, was soon overwhelmed by the frenzied villagers. However, a strange internal power surged within him, sending the villagers flying. His eyes glowed with an unusual light, and he instantly perceived the Red Pearl within Doggie. Qi Xiaoxuan quickly realized that the Blood-absorbing Demon had possessed Doggie and urged Hu Zi to retrieve the Red Pearl. Hu Zi hesitated, knowing that removing the pearl would kill the boy.
Qi Xiaoxuan pressed him, stating that Doggie was no longer himself and that the entire village would perish if Hu Zi didn't act. After a moment of painful inner conflict, Hu Zi struck Doggie. The Red Pearl was dislodged, and the Blood-absorbing Demon was forcefully expelled from Doggie's body. There was no time for sorrow as Hu Zi immediately engaged the Blood-absorbing Demon, while Qi Xiaoxuan, Zhao Xintong, and the Eldest Master fought to contain the enraged villagers.
Despite his ordinary human body, Hu Zi was soon overwhelmed by the demon, spitting blood, yet he fiercely clutched the Red Pearl, refusing to surrender it. In an act of desperation to prevent the demon from seizing it, he swallowed the Red Pearl whole.
The Eldest Master observed that Hu Zi possessed a peculiar bone structure; unlike ordinary people who would instantly perish from swallowing such a powerful yang object, Hu Zi's divine power surged, allowing him to not only survive but also defeat the Blood-absorbing Demon, which was swiftly pierced through the heart and disintegrated. With the demon destroyed, the villagers regained their senses. Doggie's mother cradled her deceased child, weeping uncontrollably and vehemently accusing Hu Zi of murder.
Other villagers joined in, blaming Hu Zi for bringing the Red Pearl and the resulting disaster to Ruyun Village, claiming he was a jinx. The Eldest Master explained that although Hu Zi was uniquely resilient, the Lock Yuan Curse he had previously cast would only temporarily prevent the Red Pearl from harming Hu Zi. It needed to be removed within days, or it would absorb all of Hu Zi's essence, causing him to explode.
The Eldest Master suggested a senior expert in magical artifacts and techniques, known as Yi Mei Fairy, residing in the nearby Babao Town, might have a solution. Qi Xiaoxuan initially expressed concern about delaying their critical mission concerning the Netherworld Sea but ultimately agreed to a maximum three-day detour to Babao Town, stating he would return to the Fulong Capital with the Red Pearl regardless of the outcome.
The villagers, unified in their grief and anger, demanded Hu Zi's immediate banishment. Granny, who had raised Hu Zi, tearfully bade him farewell, acknowledging that while the village no longer needed him, the outside world did. As they began their journey, Hu Zi struggled with the emotional toll and physical exhaustion. Qi Xiaoxuan, frustrated by Hu Zi's slow pace and complaints, as he was deliberately slacking, temporarily unsealed the Lock Yuan Curse.
He explained that within ten steps of him, the yang energy of the Red Pearl inside Hu Zi would explode. Hu Zi, fearing for his life, had no choice but to follow closely. During their journey, Hu Zi inquired about Qi Xiaoxuan's identity, learning that he was an Imperial Demonologist serving the Tiangang Hall. Hu Zi, expressing a long-held dream of becoming an Imperial Demonologist, humbly requested Qi Xiaoxuan's guidance.
The Eldest Master then proudly revealed that Qi Xiaoxuan was not only a descendant of the Ancestral Demonologist Qi Wuji but also the commander of the Imperial Demonologists. Upon arriving in Babao Town, Zhao Xintong, whose family resided there, excused herself to check on them, promising to visit after they had seen Yi Mei Fairy.
The Eldest Master then directed them to the most magnificent building in town, explaining it was Yi Mei Fairy's home, as she was renowned as the unique "Illusionary Treasure Demonologist" who crafted powerful magic weapons. The Eldest Master mentioned his own past as Qi Wuji's magic weapon and Yi Mei's connection to Ye Kongming, one of the five young heroes of the Battle of Peak Valley, implying a long-standing acquaintance.
Upon meeting Yi Mei Fairy's aide, Xing Zhi, they were ushered inside. When Yi Mei Fairy appeared, she immediately perceived the Red Pearl within Hu Zi, but also noted a powerful, pervasive demon aura inside him. Yi Mei Fairy revealed that the presence of the demon aura prevented her from directly removing the Red Pearl. She possessed a magic weapon capable of suppressing this aura, which was necessary before the Red Pearl could be extracted.
However, she explained her strict rule: any seeker of her treasures must first win a tournament held at the town's fighting altar, which was conveniently scheduled for the following day. Hu Zi was reluctant, feeling exhausted from the previous day's ordeal and doubting his ability to fight.
He pressed the Eldest Master, asking if his ancient power could help, but the Eldest Master regretfully stated that his power was diminished from the Battle of Peak Valley, forcing him to regularly revert to his brush form for recuperation, and thus he could neither suppress the demon aura nor remove the Red Pearl. Hu Zi then turned to Qi Xiaoxuan, who admitted he had never encountered such a peculiar demon aura.
Despite Hu Zi's continued reluctance, the Eldest Master emphasized Yi Mei Fairy's unyielding nature regarding her rules, asserting that no one could persuade her otherwise. He then suggested that Qi Xiaoxuan train Hu Zi to prepare him for the fighting altar. Qi Xiaoxuan was initially unwilling, and Hu Zi was equally resistant to his teaching, finding his explanations of "yin and yang qi" and "essence" too complex.
The two bickered, leading Hu Zi to declare he would simply fight the tournament relying on brute force, much as he had against the Blood-absorbing Demon. Growing increasingly frustrated with Qi Xiaoxuan, Hu Zi directly asked the Eldest Master to teach him instead. The Eldest Master, recognizing Hu Zi's innate talent, agreed to take him as a disciple, making him Qi Xiaoxuan's junior apprentice. While Qi Xiaoxuan consented to this arrangement, he sternly reiterated that he still required the Red Pearl in three days, regardless of the training or the tournament outcome.
Episode 3 Recap
Eldest Master instructs Hu Zi in spirit essence cultivation, specifically the Induct-type mental method, explaining that spirit essence has four types: Feel, Induct, Dissolve, and Release. He advises Hu Zi to adopt the Induct-type method, believing it is more suitable for him than the Release-type Qi Xiaoxuan taught, given Hu Zi's difficulty in controlling magic tools and weapons.
Eldest Master guides Hu Zi to meditate, open his body's pores and seven orifices to draw in spiritual energy, and focus on gathering specks of light in darkness. During this, Eldest Master observes Hu Zi's spirit essence is a rare golden color, far surpassing Qi Xiaoxuan's blue or ordinary white.
He hypothesizes it might be a combination of demonic energy and the Red Pearl within him, noting that even a small part of this powerful essence, if unleashed, would be formidable. Hu Zi, however, struggles with the meditation, complaining about feeling tired and constipated while Eldest Master and Qi Xiaoxuan rest. He expresses frustration, feeling it is unfair to practice alone for just one day.
Qi Xiaoxuan retorts that mastering the mental method requires patience and mind-heart unity, not just time. He also dismisses Hu Zi's complaints, implying Eldest Master may have misjudged him. Despite Hu Zi's reluctance, Qi Xiaoxuan declares that the Red Pearl's presence in Hu Zi makes it his concern. He states that if Hu Zi wins the upcoming arena battle, Yi Mei Fairy will help remove the pearl, but if he loses, Qi Xiaoxuan will retrieve it by any means necessary.
Hu Zi, determined, promises to win the fight. Meanwhile, with no news from Qi Xiaoxuan, his sister Qi Yanran expresses her growing concerns to their father, Qi Zilu. She complains that the crack in the Red Pearl Formation is expanding and might not last much longer, fearing its failure could lead to the Underworld Sea breaching its levee.
Qi Yanran views entrusting this critical mission to Qi Xiaoxuan, especially as his first assignment, as reckless, despite her father's reassurance that the formation will hold if the Red Pearl is replaced within five days and that Xiaoxuan will take the task seriously. She openly complains about her grandmother's favoritism towards Qi Xiaoxuan, who just became a battalion commander and needs an opportunity to prove himself.
Qi Zilu advises her not to act on impulse, instead encouraging her to channel her fighting spirit into the Royal Sorcerer's Exam combat arena, scheduled a month later, where she and Qi Xiaoxuan can fairly compete for the commander-in-chief position. Qi Yanran confidently declares her determination to win. Hu Zi, upon arriving at the Babao Town Battle Arena, expresses confusion about its underground location and secretive nature.
He learns from others that the arena operates illegally, being a private fighting den established without permission from Tiangang Hall, an offense punishable by caning and imprisonment under Fulong Law. Its underground setting is a necessity to evade detection. The arena is overseen by Yi Mei Fairy, a revered grandmaster from the Peak Valley battle whom even the emperor dares not arrest.
Many participants are bounty sorcerers seeking to win powerful magic tools from Yi Mei, hoping to make their fortune by killing demons. Hu Zi finds some of their motivations to be solely about money and fame. Xing Zhi, the judge, welcomes everyone and reiterates the simple rules: combatants can use any method—sorcery, magic tools, or bare fists—and victory is achieved by knocking an opponent out of the ring or forcing them to beg for mercy.
The first combatants step onto the arena: Yu Jizi, a sorcerer from Qianyu State, and Zhu Weng, a sorcerer from Fulong State, who wields a flame sword. Spectators note that Qianyu sorcerers are skilled in manipulation magic and predict a difficult battle for Zhu Weng. As the fight begins, Zhu Weng's fire is extinguished, leading him to surrender, thus giving Yu Jizi the first victory.
Hu Zi finds Zhu Weng's quick surrender unmanly, though a commentator explains that the defeat was certain once his primary magic tool was broken. Next, a formidable sorcerer from Julun State named Chang Daqiang challenges Yu Jizi. Chang Daqiang, a physically imposing figure, announces his intention to win a powerful magic tool for the Royal Sorcerer's Exam. Yu Jizi, with a similar goal, invites Chang Daqiang to fight.
Despite Chang Daqiang's strength, Yu Jizi appears to have a secret strategy, leaving Chang Daqiang at a disadvantage. Hu Zi, observing the struggle, boasts he will handle the situation. Unable to watch Chang Daqiang suffer further, Hu Zi intervenes, stopping Yu Jizi and telling Chang Daqiang to rest. He introduces himself simply as "Hu Zi of Nine Bend Mountain" and challenges Yu Jizi, criticizing him for his lack of martial ethics.
During their intense fight, Yu Jizi's magic tools relentlessly pursue Hu Zi across the arena. In a sudden move, Hu Zi reveals a toy magnet, purchased from a stall at the town gate, which astonishingly neutralizes all of Yu Jizi's flying weapons, rendering them useless scrap metal. Yu Jizi, furious at this "dirty trick," uses a final, desperate attack. Although a small knife from Yu Jizi manages to wound Hu Zi, it seems to deplete Yu Jizi's spirit essence.
Seizing this precise moment, Hu Zi, whose own spirit essence Qi Xiaoxuan had noted was depleted, unleashes a powerful punch, knocking Yu Jizi out. Eldest Master observes from afar that Hu Zi has successfully mastered the Induct-type mental method. The judge declares Hu Zi the victor and asks if any other challenger wishes to compete. Just as Hu Zi's victory is about to be finalized, Zhao Xintong steps onto the stage, stopping the judge's announcement.
Recognizing Qi Xiaoxuan and Hu Zi, she inquires about their presence, assuming they are there to obtain the Red Pearl from Yi Mei Fairy, a task that, according to Yi Mei's rules, requires winning the arena battle. Qi Xiaoxuan confirms that the situation has changed, as Hu Zi now carries a demonic aura requiring a magic tool for suppression, making their need for a win critical. He urges Zhao Xintong to withdraw due to the Red Pearl's urgency.
However, Zhao Xintong refuses, explaining that her own silver spear was broken during a fight with a Blood-devouring Demon, and she needs Yi Mei Fairy to fix it, emphasizing its profound importance. Hu Zi, exasperated, questions her priority, feeling it is heartless given his critical state, but Zhao Xintong remains resolute, leading him to accept her challenge. With no other option, Hu Zi agrees to fight Zhao Xintong.
During their intense close-quarters combat, Hu Zi attempts to force her to yield, but she fiercely resists. Hu Zi's actions accidentally cause Zhao Xintong's hair tie to break and her hair to fall loose, revealing her identity. Hu Zi is stunned, exclaiming that she is a woman and noting her delicate features. The crowd immediately recognizes her as Zhao Xintong, the esteemed daughter of the Zhao family.
Overwhelmed with humiliation at having her disguise exposed in public, Zhao Xintong quickly exits the arena. The judge then officially declares Hu Zi the winner, instructing him to go to Sikong Pavilion the next morning at 9-11 AM to claim his magic tool. Filled with remorse for publicly exposing Zhao Xintong's identity, Hu Zi desperately seeks to apologize. He tries to convince Qi Xiaoxuan to accompany him to the Zhao Mansion, citing that Zhao Xintong had fought alongside them before.
Qi Xiaoxuan, however, prioritizes retrieving the Red Pearl and warns Hu Zi against causing further trouble, explaining that the traditional Zhao family, especially its Sect Leader Zhao Haotian, would not tolerate such a humiliation to his daughter. Despite Qi Xiaoxuan's initial refusal, Hu Zi resorts to secretly taking Qi Xiaoxuan's token, forcing Qi Xiaoxuan to eventually agree to accompany him.
Reluctantly, Qi Xiaoxuan helps Hu Zi choose new, more presentable clothes, explaining that their paths will diverge once the Red Pearl is retrieved. Hu Zi, aiming to make a good impression, insists on the new attire.
Upon their arrival at the Zhao Mansion, they are received by Zhao Haotian, the Sect Leader, who recognizes Qi Xiaoxuan and reminisces about their families' past connections, including his own time serving in Tiangang Hall a decade ago, a period when the Zhao Sect was as renowned as the Qi Sect before its subsequent decline after his departure. Zhao Haotian inquires about Qi Xiaoxuan's father and the purpose of their visit.
Qi Xiaoxuan explains his mission to replace the broken Red Pearl at Fulong Bay. When Hu Zi attempts to explain their connection to Zhao Xintong through Ruyun Village, Zhao Xintong appears and immediately denies ever leaving the mansion or knowing them, presenting a recently completed painting as evidence of her continuous presence at home. Her maid corroborates her story. Zhao Haotian accepts his daughter's claims, leading Hu Zi and Qi Xiaoxuan to apologize for their "mistake."
Hu Zi is bewildered by Zhao Xintong's denial, but Qi Xiaoxuan subtly hints that she has "unspeakable reasons" and that Hu Zi almost exposed her. After their initial encounter, Zhao Xintong and her maid express relief that her father did not suspect her disguise, acknowledging that Hu Zi and Qi Xiaoxuan did not expose her lie.
Hu Zi, however, still driven by guilt, is invited by Zhao Xintong's maid to a private room to offer a heartfelt apology, assuring her he never intended to humiliate her and would not have fought her so aggressively if he had known she was a woman. Zhao Xintong, though initially defensive, eventually listens as Hu Zi, to make amends, offers to forfeit his right to receive the magic tool from Yi Mei Fairy, effectively giving her the winning opportunity.
Qi Xiaoxuan strongly opposes this, emphasizing the critical urgency of the Red Pearl situation and the demonic aura within Hu Zi that even Yi Mei Fairy could not suppress. Zhao Xintong then reveals the true reason for her determination: the broken silver spear is actually the "Ci" (female) part of the renowned Ci Xiong Double Spear, a cherished relic from her mother, distinct from her father's "Xiong" (male) spear.
She has been secretly engaging in activities like bounty hunting and needs to repair it before her father discovers its damaged state and her secret endeavors. Hu Zi promises to keep her secret and insists on his offer, arguing that a two-day journey to Fulong Capital will allow enough time for the Red Pearl issue to be resolved by its many experts, making a slight delay for her spear's repair acceptable.
Despite Qi Xiaoxuan's concerns about breaking Yi Mei Fairy's rules, Hu Zi confidently states they will explain the situation to her at Sikong Pavilion the next morning. He compliments her appearance in her female attire, and the plan is settled.
Episode 4 Recap
After a seemingly easy victory achieved through trickery in a public display, Yi Mei assessed Hu Zi, wondering if he was truly the person they sought. A quick test, she concluded, would reveal the truth. Meanwhile, in the Zhao Mansion, Zhao Xintong hid. From her hiding place, she softly spoke to her late mother Yue's memorial tablet, acknowledging she had broken her spear but had also slain a demon and saved lives, just as Yue once did.
She vowed to find a way to repair the spear. Her father, Zhao Haotian, then entered the room, speaking to his deceased wife. He reiterated that, according to Yue's dying wish ten years prior, he had stopped teaching their daughter, Tong, martial arts. He proudly noted that Tong had grown into a fine young woman, proficient in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting, unlike her mother who loved wielding weapons.
He expressed a wish that Yue could see Tong now, and reaffirmed his decade-long commitment to finding Black Wind to avenge her death, no matter how far he had to chase. Overhearing her father's words, Xintong was deeply moved. Hu Zi, having won a good opportunity but given it away, was chided by Eldest Master. Hu Zi explained that he had promised Zhao Xintong to let her have the magical item, valuing his word.
He acknowledged the importance of retrieving the Red Pearl to address the Netherworld Sea issue, but emphasized that Xintong’s spear, her mother’s last memento, was equally crucial. He recounted how she broke it saving him, and having lost his own mother at a young age, he understood her feelings.
Qi Xiaoxuan expressed concern about Hu Zi's excessive Yang energy, fearing he wouldn't even reach the capital, Fulong, where they hoped to find a way to suppress his demon aura, a task Yi Mei, with her five centuries of cultivation, might also struggle with. Hu Zi, however, assured them that the enchantment he had been taught was effective in suppressing his discomfort through meditation, though Eldest Master warned it wasn't a permanent solution.
Ultimately, Hu Zi declared that if no method was found in the capital to remove the Red Pearl, they could dissect him, as he wouldn't delay their important mission. He then dismissed them to rest. Qi Xiaoxuan, however, remained determined to retrieve the Red Pearl the following day, stressing its urgency. The next morning, Zhao Xintong met with Hu Zi and Qi Xiaoxuan.
She had deliberated all night and decided the Red Pearl was indeed more vital, as the Netherworld Sea matter couldn't wait. She would find another time to explain to her father and repair her spear. Hu Zi tried to dissuade her, concerned someone might have influenced her, but Xintong insisted it was her own decision. Together, they went to visit Yi Mei Fairy. They found her gravely injured.
She revealed that Black Wind, the Demon Lord who had disappeared for ten years, had reappeared in Babao Town and attacked her. News of the Zhao Sect's decline had spread throughout Babao Town. At a local inn, Zhao Mansion sorcerers faced ridicule, accused of being an "empty shell" since their leader, Zhao Haotian, retired from the Tiangang Hall. Locals taunted them for not having slain any demons in a decade, claiming Babao Town no longer needed their protection.
Amidst the mockery, one Zhao sorcerer admitted he planned to leave the sect. Suddenly, Black Wind manifested, declaring herself the very Demon Lord the Zhao family had sought for ten years, and vowed to eliminate all Zhao Mansion members present. At the Zhao Mansion, Zhao Xintong confronted her father, revealing she had secretly mastered the Zhao family's spear skills, having memorized the entire spear book except for the final chapter, Yan Ling Shan.
She explained that ever since her mother’s death, her father had changed, forcing her to learn refined arts instead of martial arts, but all she ever wanted was to slay demons, protect peace, and fight like her mother. Zhao Haotian was deeply disappointed, reminding her that her mother died at Black Wind's hands and her dying wish was for Xintong to live a peaceful life, far from their path.
He forbade Xintong from interfering with Black Wind, confining her to her room to reflect on her disobedience, strictly prohibiting her from leaving without his permission. Later, Hu Zi attempted to visit Zhao Xintong but was turned away by a guard who stated she was unavailable. Undeterred, Hu Zi scaled the mansion walls and found Xintong confined. He quickly released her, but they were soon discovered by Zhao Haotian.
Xintong pleaded with her father, asking him to consider her feelings and asserting her capability to fight and protect others as a grown woman. Hu Zi vouched for her exceptional spear skills, but Zhao Haotian remained adamant, ordering his men to drive Hu Zi out and escort Xintong back to her room. As he was being forced away, Hu Zi promised Xintong he would return to save her.
Meanwhile, Black Wind’s demonic energy enveloped Babao Town, signaling an impending major conflict. Eldest Master revealed Black Wind was a Demon Lord who escaped a major battle 500 years ago, explaining that the sorcery world had a rule to retreat when facing a superior being. He admitted that his past injury and current condition made him and Qi Xiaoxuan no match for Black Wind, further complicated by the unretrieved Red Pearl and the delayed Netherworld Sea matter.
He shared his past involvement as a magic weapon maker, having created a twin spear that could have defeated Black Wind long ago if used by Zhao Haotian and his wife, implying it was their failure that led to the current calamity. Eldest Master warned that the black smoke engulfing the town was more than just sorcery; it was a sophisticated formation.
He explained that Black Wind's ambush utilized Babao Town's octagonal layout, with the Azure Dragon, White Tiger, Vermilion Bird, and Black Tortoise city gates each cursed with a Wind Eye, allowing the soul-consuming black smoke to strengthen the formation. Once the smoke dome fully closed, there would be no hope. To break it, they had to uncover the talisman eyes and dispel the dome's danger, with less than two hours remaining.
Zhao Haotian expressed surprise at Black Wind’s increased power, to which Eldest Master solemnly affirmed the severity of the situation, stating that even royal sorcerers from Tiangang Hall would retreat from a prepared Demon Lord. Despite the grave danger, Zhao Haotian declared his resolve to execute Black Wind. Other sorcerers, including Yu Jizi and Zhu Weng, stepped forward, offering their assistance to break the four Wind Eye formations simultaneously.
Zhao Haotian entrusted the town's safety to them, while re-emphasizing the need to keep Xintong confined. Inside, Zhao Xintong again pleaded with Uncle Chen to let her out, desperate to avenge her mother. Uncle Chen refused, citing Zhao Haotian’s strict orders and his concern for Xintong as the last heir of the Zhao Sect. However, Xiaoyun, Xintong’s loyal maid, having lost her own parents to Black Wind ten years prior, understood Xintong’s unwavering determination.
Moved by Xintong’s desperate plea to prevent further suffering, and fearing for Xintong’s peace if she couldn’t avenge her mother, Xiaoyun defied Zhao Haotian’s orders and released her, making Xintong promise to return safely. Outside, the Zhao Army prepared to fight. They knew the black smoke had soul-capturing demonic power, but also that the Zhao Spear could suppress it. After ten years of training, they were ready to guard and save Babao Town.
Eldest Master, having maintained human form for too long, briefly reverted to his true form, weakening him, but still helped cover for Qi Xiaoxuan and Hu Zi as they worked to uncover a talisman eye. Qi Xiaoxuan guided Hu Zi to use the enchantment method, warning him to stabilize his breath to avoid demonic invasion. Meanwhile, Zhao Haotian led a group towards the Azure Dragon Gate, the key to the formation. Zhao Xintong arrived to assist her father.
Though distressed by her presence, Zhao Haotian focused on breaking the talisman eye at the Azure Dragon Gate, which was the key to the formation. As the black smoke intensified and citizens sought refuge, Zhao Xintong helped gather and guide them. With concentrated effort, Zhao Haotian successfully broke the talisman eye, causing the Black Wind Formation to collapse. Even with the formation broken, Black Wind remained in the city.
She appeared before Zhao Haotian, taunting him about their ten-year separation and her increased power, claiming he couldn't conquer the sinister depths of the human heart. Zhao Haotian declared his intention to avenge his wife, Yue, with Black Wind's death. Black Wind callously retorted that she would send him to reunite with his wife. Zhao Xintong, filled with vengeance, also charged forward, vowing to avenge her mother. Black Wind noticed Xintong, remarking on her beauty but regretting her fate.
Zhao Haotian, seeing the tragically fallen citizens, sternly ordered Xintong, as the Sect Leader of the Zhao Sect, to immediately escort the remaining people out of the city, threatening expulsion if she defied. He then commanded the Zhao Army to guard the evacuation and fight Black Wind to the death.
Black Wind continued to mock the declining Zhao Sect, noting that none of Zhao Lingyan's descendants had mastered the ultimate Yan Ling Shan skill, and offered Zhao Haotian a chance to flee. However, Zhao Haotian, upholding his ancestors' legacy and reputation, refused to abandon his duty, stating that a Zhao Sect member would never choose escape, even if it meant shedding every drop of blood.
He then unleashed the Yan Ling Shan ultimate skill, piercing Black Wind with his long spear, leaving her with a look of surprise, though it remained uncertain if this final, desperate act would truly defeat her.
Episode 5 Recap
Sect Leader Zhao Haotian, burning all his spirit essence for a desperate attack, faced Black Wind. Yi Mei Fairy observed that while his courage was commendable, his lingering attachments meant his ultimate move, Yan Ling Shan, lacked the necessary force and would likely fail. Black Wind confirmed this, remarking that Zhao Haotian's attachment would make his fatal blow less potent. As Zhao Haotian’s forces urged him to retreat, Black Wind confronted Hu Zi, expressing curiosity about him.
Yi Mei Fairy, despite the apparent risk, believed this battle would unleash a hidden secret within Hu Zi, betting a silver sycee on it. Meanwhile, Zhao Xintong, instructed by her father, initially escorted the people of Babao Town to safety. However, she soon declared her decision to return and fight, stating that as a descendant of the Zhao Sect, which had protected people for 500 years, she could not abandon her family. Qi Xiaoxuan and Hu Zi engaged Black Wind.
Black Wind easily overpowered Qi Xiaoxuan, mocking his ordinary appearance and referring to him as "Ice Cube," then effortlessly rendered him unconscious, leaving Hu Zi alone to face the powerful demon. Black Wind, the demon, then used her sorcery to infiltrate Hu Zi's mind, seeking to feed on his fears and empower herself. However, she found his inner world utterly calm and devoid of fear.
This unexpected resilience allowed Hu Zi to break free from the illusion, expelling Black Wind from his mind. Enraged, Black Wind vanished from sight. Hu Zi quickly roused Qi Xiaoxuan, but Black Wind reappeared, launching a fatal strike towards Qi Xiaoxuan. Hu Zi immediately threw himself in the path of the attack, shielding his friend. Qi Xiaoxuan, still injured, declared his faith as a sorcerer compelled him to continue fighting Black Wind.
The gravely wounded Zhao Haotian, along with the remaining Zhao Army, fought to buy precious time. Just then, Zhao Xintong returned, riding her horse into Babao Town. She confronted Black Wind, engaging in a desperate battle. Calling upon her mother and unleashing the powerful Zhao spear skill, Yan Ling Shan, she ultimately defeated and killed Black Wind.
With the immediate threat to Babao Town averted, Zhao Haotian, witnessing his daughter's growth and mastery of their family's martial arts, expressed his profound pride and regret for his past actions. He tearfully apologized for not recognizing her talent sooner and for his guilt over her mother's death, sharing fond memories of teaching her the Zhao spear skill. He then succumbed to his severe injuries, passing away peacefully, surrounded by his daughter and the loyal Zhao Army.
Following the battle, the elderly Xing Zhi implored Yi Mei Fairy to save his injured disciple, Hu Zi, who had sustained severe injuries from Black Wind yet miraculously clung to life. Yi Mei Fairy recognized the urgency and used the Phurba, a powerful magical tool that had slain a Demon Emperor 500 years prior, to suppress the demonic aura within Hu Zi and extract the Red Pearl.
During this process, she discovered a protective sealed barrier within Hu Zi's body, hinting at deeper secrets. Meanwhile, the premature rupture of the Red Pearl in Fulong Bay had caused the Netherworld Sea to breach, leading to the destruction of Qingquan Village and the displacement of its people.
Qi Zilu, concerned about the escalating catastrophe, ordered Qi Yanran to quickly retrieve the Red Pearl from Qi Xiaoxuan, expressing frustration over Xiaoxuan's apparent loss of the pearl and its subsequent devastating consequences. At the Zhao residence, a somber atmosphere prevailed as the family mourned the newly deceased Sect Leader Zhao Haotian. Their grief was interrupted by the arrival of Wu Lidan, the Deputy Commander of the Royal Sorcerer Black Camp.
Wu Lidan, revealing a 500-year-old vendetta rooted in Zhao Lingyan's alleged mistake that led to the death of his ancestor, Wu Muyu, used his deadly Nine Domain Golden Silkworm to poison the Zhao family retainers. He then forced Zhao Xintong to publicly insult her revered ancestors, including Zhao Lingyan, and the entire Zhao Sect. Despite the immense humiliation and pain, Zhao Xintong, under duress to save her people, complied, vowing silent revenge.
Back with Hu Zi, despite the Red Pearl's removal, he remained unconscious. Xing Zhi explained that the pearl's roots and the lingering demonic aura had shattered Hu Zi's organs and meridians. Yi Mei Fairy noted Hu Zi's extraordinary vitality and the presence of a rare golden spirit essence, but acknowledged his critical state.
The Phurba's earlier intervention, while extracting the pearl, also inadvertently broke a seal on Hu Zi's memories, causing a flood of fragmented recollections of his mother urging him to forget her and live a peaceful life. However, his primordial spirit hovered on the brink of annihilation. Yi Mei Fairy explained that Hu Zi's primordial spirit was on the verge of collapsing, trapped within a virtual world.
To save him, someone needed to enter this realm using the highly perilous Primordial Spirit Separation Technique. She clarified that as magical tools, neither she nor Eldest Master could perform the technique, leaving Qi Xiaoxuan as the only viable option. Despite the grave risks, Qi Xiaoxuan, feeling responsible for Hu Zi's predicament, volunteered to undertake the dangerous procedure, instructing Eldest Master to deliver the Red Pearl to the capital if he failed.
Yi Mei Fairy warned him that a burning talisman above his head marked his time limit in the virtual world, and he must exit before it extinguished to avoid life-threatening backlash. She also stressed that he must not use his essence power within the virtual world. Entering Hu Zi's mind, Qi Xiaoxuan found him in the form of a young boy, living in isolation with his mother, a powerful ten-thousand-year-old tiger demon.
Young Hu Zi, having no memory of his current reality, did not recognize Qi Xiaoxuan. Qi Xiaoxuan tried to awaken his memories by recalling their recent adventures, including the accidental swallowing of the Red Pearl, and their battles against the blood demon and Black Wind.
When Hu Zi remained unresponsive and sleepy, Qi Xiaoxuan, in a desperate attempt to break the illusion, disregarded Yi Mei Fairy's warning and used his essence power within the virtual world, causing him to experience intense backlash in the real world, as observed helplessly by Eldest Master. Against all odds, Qi Xiaoxuan successfully pulled Hu Zi back from the brink of oblivion and out of the virtual world.
Upon his return, with the internal seal no longer suppressing him, Hu Zi's true form began to manifest, revealing a white tiger tail. Just as Qi Xiaoxuan was recovering, his sister, Qi Yanran, appeared. She announced that she was sent by their father to assist him, and also shared the alarming news that the Red Pearl in Fulong Bay had prematurely failed, leaving Qi Xiaoxuan stunned.
Episode 6 Recap
Qi Yanran, holding the Red Pearl, confidently stated her intention to personally escort it to the capital, yet immediately accused Qi Xiaoxuan of causing the premature failure of the Red Pearl from Fulong Bay. She claimed this led to the Netherworld Sea breaching its levee the day before, flooding all surrounding villages and leaving countless citizens homeless. Qi Yanran asserted that Qi Xiaoxuan’s father was awaiting his return to the capital, but she would now handle the Red Pearl's transport.
Discovering a demonic tail on Hu Zi, Qi Yanran presumed him to be a demon and attempted to kill him, but Qi Xiaoxuan intervened, defending Hu Zi by asserting he was not a demon. Qi Yanran scorned Qi Xiaoxuan for aligning with a demon, reminding him of his status as a Royal Sorcerer and the unique heir to the Qi Sect, while dismissing his explanation that the demonic energy was implanted by an outsider.
Yi Mei Fairy then corroborated Qi Xiaoxuan's account, explaining that Hu Zi had accidentally swallowed the Red Pearl, and during its retrieval, they discovered the implanted demonic tail. Yi Mei Fairy urged Qi Yanran to return to the capital to rebuild the formation, and personally stated she would take responsibility for the Red Pearl's delay before Qi Xiaoxuan's father.
Qi Yanran, though now accepting Hu Zi would not be killed, continued to verbally lash out at Qi Xiaoxuan, mocking his protective instincts and labeling him a cowardly and indecisive person unfit to inherit the Qi Sect, vowing to prove herself the true successor. Eldest Master intervened, emphasizing the urgent situation at Fulong Bay and the importance of resolving the Netherworld Sea crisis. Qi Yanran acknowledged his words and departed with the Red Pearl.
After Qi Yanran's departure, Hu Zi awakened. Eldest Master immediately informed him that Qi Xiaoxuan had risked his life to save him. Qi Xiaoxuan, typically reserved, curtly instructed Hu Zi to pack for the capital. Hu Zi, still disoriented, found Qi Xiaoxuan cold and initially refused, questioning why he needed to go to the capital if the Red Pearl had been retrieved.
Eldest Master explained that while the Red Pearl was removed, the demonic tail in Hu Zi’s body was unstable and could potentially harm the populace. He revealed that Qi Xiaoxuan, during Hu Zi’s near-death state, had entered Hu Zi’s subconscious realm using his primordial spirit and spirit essence, nearly sacrificing his own life. This heroic act had depleted half of Qi Xiaoxuan's spirit essence, requiring half a year to recover.
Eldest Master also prompted Hu Zi to thank Yi Mei Fairy for using an ancient magic tool, the Phurba, to suppress his demonic aura. Yi Mei Fairy then probed Hu Zi about the origin of the demonic tail, suggesting that the Phurba's injection had unsealed his memories. Hu Zi, however, lied, claiming no recollection.
In an internal monologue, Hu Zi revealed his true motivation for agreeing to go to the capital: his mother was a tiger demon, taken by a wolfman wearing a Royal Sorcerer token, and he believed the answers lay in the capital. Later, Hu Zi attempted to thank Qi Xiaoxuan by making turtle soup, but added so many tonic herbs that Eldest Master, who tried it, was overwhelmed, leading to a humorous exchange about Hu Zi's attempts at healing.
Despite the antics, Eldest Master confirmed their departure for the capital later that day. Meanwhile, Zhao Xintong stood at her parents' tomb, deeply missing them and reflecting on her father’s legacy. She recounted his teachings about the Zhao family’s generations of chivalrous and righteous deeds, and his sorrow that the family’s decline began with his generation. Zhao Xintong, however, vehemently disagreed, seeing her father as a hero who bravely protected Babao Town.
She then made a solemn vow: to prevent the Zhao Sect’s downfall, to avenge all the humiliation suffered at the hands of Wu Lidan a thousandfold, and to reclaim everything the Zhao family had lost. Afterwards, back at the Zhao Mansion, Zhao Xintong attempted to disburse the remaining family wealth to the household members, announcing her intention to leave as she was now the sole descendant.
The family members, led by Uncle Chen, pleaded with her to stay, arguing that her departure would dishonor her father’s memory. Zhao Xintong explained that while her Zhao family blood tied her to them, staying confined to Babao Town would prevent her from restoring the Zhao Sect's former glory.
She declared her decision to travel to the capital to take the Royal Sorcerer Exam, believing that only by returning to the Tiangang Hall could the Zhao family’s past splendor be revived. Hearing this, the townspeople of Babao Town and the Zhao family members rallied, apologizing for past misgivings and pledging to join the Zhao Sect to protect the town’s peace.
They urged her to pursue her ambition in the capital, promising to stay and safeguard the Zhao family and its legacy in her absence. Touched by their loyalty, Zhao Xintong agreed, reaffirming her commitment to the Zhao Sect’s future. Separately, Yi Mei Fairy contemplated an ancient painting, her sole memento from five centuries past, reflecting on the countless lives she had witnessed.
Eldest Master questioned her decision to gift the powerful Phurba—once used to slay the Demon Emperor—to the stranger Hu Zi. Yi Mei Fairy explained that the Phurba had been unusable for 500 years and could now effectively suppress Hu Zi's demonic energy, making him a suitable vessel. She expressed concerns about its inherent difficulty to control and the potentially dire consequences if mishandled, entrusting Eldest Master with monitoring Hu Zi.
From a nearby prison, Black Wind, a demonic entity, screamed accusations at Yi Mei Fairy, revealing she had been imprisoned for ten years, her demonic power drained to cultivate artifacts. Yi Mei Fairy offered Black Wind freedom on the condition that she would once again sow chaos in Babao Town to test a young man.
Yi Mei Fairy then confirmed to an unseen presence that they had finally found the most suitable vessel after 500 years, signaling the imminent launch of their grand plan. Soon after, Zhao Xintong, Qi Xiaoxuan, and Hu Zi approached Yi Mei Fairy. Zhao Xintong announced her intention to travel to the capital to take the Royal Sorcerer Exam and reinstate the Zhao Sect's emblem in the Tiangang Hall.
Qi Xiaoxuan offered his assistance, and Hu Zi, now unburdened and having gained a deeper understanding of a sorcerer's purpose from his journey, decided to join them for the exam. Yi Mei Fairy then presented Zhao Xintong with the Ci Xiong Double Spear, which belonged to Zhao Xintong’s parents, explaining she had refined it into a single, size-changing weapon, now returned to its rightful owner.
She also warned Hu Zi against removing the Phurba, as it was crucial for suppressing his demonic energy and its removal would be life-threatening. Before heading to the capital, a commander reported to Qi Xiaoxuan that while the Red Pearl’s premature breach had caused the complete destruction of Qingquan Village, there were fortunately no casualties due to the timely evacuation ordered by Qi Xiaoxuan’s Master. Qi Xiaoxuan instructed the commander to use all his savings to aid the displaced villagers.
He also learned that Qi Yanran had blamed him for the Red Pearl’s delay to the Tiangang Hall, but Qi Xiaoxuan remained resolute, stating he would seek forgiveness after ensuring the villagers were settled. Upon their arrival in the bustling Fulong Capital, Hu Zi, Qi Xiaoxuan, and Zhao Xintong were captivated by the sights. They encountered Wang Yuqian, known as Qian Yu San Ren, selling romance novels.
He boasted that his bestsellers featured Royal Sorcerer Qi Xiaoxuan as the heroic protagonist, describing him as a handsome and accomplished young man, completely oblivious that the actual Qi Xiaoxuan stood beside Hu Zi. Wang Yuqian, eager to share his insights into "girls' hearts," invited Hu Zi to Feifan Tavern. Shortly after, Hu Zi noticed a deceptive "golden jade tree" tossing game.
The vendor claimed the tree was a valuable heirloom obtained from slaying a demon clan and promised it to anyone who could toss a dart into an impossibly inverted, high-placed pot. Recognizing the scam, Hu Zi borrowed money from Qi Xiaoxuan and, after confirming the rules, cleverly bounced his dart off the ground to land it inside the pot.
The distraught vendor, exposed, tearfully confessed his deceit and begged Hu Zi to accept other prizes, explaining he had taken the golden jade tree without his family's knowledge and feared his father's wrath. Hu Zi, playing the righteous hero, demanded the vendor return all the cheated money to his victims and cease his fraudulent activities, which the vendor readily agreed to. Hu Zi proudly gloated about his "heroic" act, much to Qi Xiaoxuan's dry amusement.
Later, while dining at a lively restaurant, they witnessed Wang Yuqian frantically fleeing from a group of angry men. Hu Zi, Qi Xiaoxuan, and Zhao Xintong intervened, demanding an explanation. The men accused Wang Yuqian of being a "liar" and a "con artist" who, claiming medical prowess, had inexplicably used a brick to knock out their master, Master Zhang, who was seriously injured.
A second group then arrived, also pursuing Wang Yuqian, revealing that their master, Master Zhao, had suffered a similar brick attack from Wang Yuqian after drinking at Xinghua Restaurant the previous day. Hu Zi expressed his disbelief, calling Wang Yuqian a "beast with a human face" for such actions. As the two groups began arguing over who had the right to seize Wang Yuqian, Master Zhang and Master Zhao themselves entered the restaurant, fully recovered and in high spirits.
They hailed Wang Yuqian as a "miracle doctor." They explained that they, old friends, had recently engaged in a bitter dispute over the positioning of a wall while rebuilding their mansions, which led to Master Zhang calling Master Zhao's family "three generations of beggars." This verbal exchange escalated, resulting in Master Zhao having his family assault Master Zhang, leaving both men bedridden with physical and emotional wounds.
They both recounted how Wang Yuqian, using his mysterious brick, had "treated" them, causing them to suddenly understand and forgive each other. Master Zhang's injuries healed quickly, and Master Zhao realized the folly of holding grudges against an old friend. They had since reconciled, attributing their renewed friendship and well-being to Wang Yuqian's unusual intervention.
One of the masters then attempted to ask Wang Yuqian for assistance with a personal matter, which Wang Yuqian immediately declined, stating he could not help. Intrigued, Hu Zi and Qi Xiaoxuan pressed Wang Yuqian about his peculiar "medical" methods. Wang Yuqian clarified that his ability was not medical expertise but a unique innate power.
He explained his "borrowing and repaying debts" technique: he could strike a suffering individual with a brick, sealing their pain—a process he called "borrowing"—and then strike the source of their pain, the assailant, dissolving the sealed suffering—a process he called "repaying debts." He likened this complementary exchange to Yin and Yang.
He warned that if the "debt" was not "repaid" to the assailant within seven days, it would backfire and return to the original sufferer in multiplied intensity, affecting even himself. Wang Yuqian lamented that this unusual method, despite its efficacy, was widely misunderstood and unappreciated, forcing him to leave Qianyu State and come to Fulong State to participate in the Royal Sorcerer Exam, hoping for a more accepting environment.
He confessed that he had lost all his money on the journey and had resorted to writing and selling romance novels, with his stories about "Qi Sect's young master, Qi Xiaoxuan," being his most popular. It was then, as he described his fictional hero, that Wang Yuqian finally recognized the real Qi Xiaoxuan sitting before him, his eyes widening in surprise.
Episode 7 Recap
During their return to the Sorcerer's Inn, Hu Zi and his companions encountered Da Changqiang, who was being bullied by the Jinhua sisters trio: Shui Xian, Bai He, and Chu Ju. Despite Da Changqiang's large stature, the three sisters, who introduced themselves as busking triplets from Jinhua Village, had him thoroughly defeated. They accused Da Changqiang of stealing their business by outdoing their street performances.
Qi Xiaoxuan intervened, and his cool and handsome demeanor immediately captivated the sisters, diffusing the situation. Qi Xiaoxuan then invited all aspiring Royal Sorcerer Exam candidates, including the sisters and Da Changqiang, to stay at the Sorcerer's Inn free of charge. Wang Yuqian, who had already joined Qi Xiaoxuan's group due to previous assistance, reaffirmed his commitment to them, offering his unique "brick-slamming" healing skills.
Shortly after, Cheng Jinian, the son of Elder Council Chairman Cheng Shu, arrived at the Sorcerer's Inn in a high-profile and noisy manner, loudly proclaiming his qualification for the Royal Sorcerer Exam. He cemented a poor impression on Hu Zi by discarding a banana peel in public. Shan Cha, a sorcerer who served as the receptionist, greeted the new arrivals and offered them pastries she had personally made.
Cheng Jinian took an immediate interest in Shan Cha and, with malicious intent, accused her of stealing his family heirloom jade pendant, which he had planted in her bag. Xiao Yunzi, a sorcerer from Qianyu State, stepped forward to defend Shan Cha, advising Cheng Jinian to be more forgiving. Cheng Jinian, however, arrogantly offered to drop the accusation only if Shan Cha would "offer herself" to him. As the argument escalated, Qi Xiaoxuan and his group arrived.
Shan Cha tearfully explained how Cheng Jinian had framed her. Hu Zi then presented what he claimed was an ancient, lie-detecting artifact called the Hujia Ruanruan Gourd. When tested, the gourd consistently pointed at Cheng Jinian as the liar. Though Cheng Jinian dismissed it as a trick, Qi Xiaoxuan warned him that falsely accusing someone was a serious offense punishable by disqualification from the Royal Sorcerer Exam and imprisonment if brought before Tiangang Hall.
Fearing the consequences, especially if his own father, the Elder Council Chairman, found out, Cheng Jinian reluctantly backed down, though he refused to apologize to Shan Cha and threatened Hu Zi before leaving. Shan Cha expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the group for saving her. Later, Hu Zi revealed to his companions that the Hujia Ruanruan Gourd was merely a childhood trick he had mastered, capable of pointing wherever he willed it.
Soon after, Qi Yanran, Commander of the Black Camp and Qi Xiaoxuan's older sister, arrived to take Qi Xiaoxuan and Hu Zi away to Tiangang Hall, stating that she had previously informed Qi Xiaoxuan of her intention to have Hu Zi's situation confirmed by their father. Hu Zi openly criticized Qi Yanran's harsh treatment of her brother, prompting her to threaten him with her Lightning Blade.
Meanwhile, Zhao Xintong attempted to follow them into Tiangang Hall to testify on their behalf, but she was stopped by Wu Lidan, a Royal Sorcerer. Wu Lidan cruelly reminded Zhao Xintong of her family's past disgrace, asserting that her Zhao Sect had been removed from Tiangang Hall and that she had no right to enter.
Enraged, Zhao Xintong nearly resorted to violence, but Wang Yuqian intervened, reminding her to control her temper and not jeopardize her mission to restore her family's honor. Inside Tiangang Hall, Chief Commander Qi Zilu sternly interrogated Qi Xiaoxuan for his failure to timely deliver the Red Pearl, which resulted in the destruction of Qingquan Village. Qi Xiaoxuan accepted full responsibility for the incident.
Hu Zi, feeling remorseful for his role in the delay, interrupted, admitting that he had swallowed the Red Pearl, which caused the critical time lag. The Chief Commander argued that Qi Xiaoxuan, as a Royal Sorcerer, should have prioritized the Red Pearl by extracting it immediately, even through force. Hu Zi vehemently countered, questioning the Chief Commander's priorities and accusing the Tiangang Hall elders of being self-serving and ineffective.
He highlighted Qi Xiaoxuan's bravery in defending Ruyun Village and Babao Town against demons while the elders sat idly by. Qi Yanran seized the opportunity to fan the flames, exposing Hu Zi's demonic tail and declaring him a demon, thus accusing Qi Xiaoxuan of protecting a monster and delaying the Red Pearl delivery due to it. Chief Commander Qi Zilu immediately ordered the use of Demon Chains to subdue Hu Zi.
However, Yi Mei Fairy appeared, revealing that the Phurba had been planted in Hu Zi's body by her to suppress his demonic tail, asserting that Hu Zi was not a demon but an ordinary person whose demonic energy was being gradually dissipated. She assured them that with the Phurba's suppression, the demonic tail posed no threat. Chief Commander Qi Zilu, though initially wary, allowed Hu Zi to remain under the Phurba's influence.
However, he expressed continued suspicion regarding why Hu Zi uniquely possessed the demonic tail and suggested he be detained and strictly supervised for safety. Qi Xiaoxuan then summoned Eldest Master, who emerged as the Zi Jin Wolf Brush, a sentient ancestral artifact. Eldest Master further corroborated Hu Zi's heroism in battling the blood demon and Black Wind in Babao Town, confirming they even defeated a Demon Lord.
This testimony convinced Chief Commander Qi Zilu to allow Hu Zi to participate in the upcoming Royal Sorcerer Exam, with the understanding that he would be dealt with if any issues arose. However, Qi Yanran insisted that Qi Xiaoxuan's misconduct regarding the Red Pearl could not be overlooked. She had a history of accusing Xiaoxuan to their father, leading to punishments since childhood, fueling her desire to see him fail.
Chief Commander Qi Zilu agreed, sentencing Qi Xiaoxuan to thirty lashes and three days of imprisonment. Qi Xiaoxuan accepted his punishment, though Zhao Xintong protested the perceived injustice. Later, Hu Zi secretly infiltrated the prison to rescue Qi Xiaoxuan, but Qi Xiaoxuan refused, explaining that escaping prison was a capital crime and he would not let Hu Zi risk his life further.
Qi Xiaoxuan used Eldest Master to forcibly remove Hu Zi from the prison, with Eldest Master comically complaining about his "old back." Meanwhile, a commander from the White Camp arrived with new intelligence, reporting that several more sorcerers had gone missing in the capital, leaving no trace. Eldest Master later explained to Hu Zi that Qi Xiaoxuan was highly favored within the Qi Sect, with First Master Jiang Xici herself passing on the Zi Jin Wolf Brush to Xiaoxuan.
This favoritism fueled Qi Yanran's jealousy, leading her to constantly plot against Xiaoxuan, hoping he would make mistakes that would disqualify him from the upcoming Royal Sorcerer Competition for the Tiangang Hall branch commander position. Eventually, Qi Xiaoxuan's mother confronted Chief Commander Qi Zilu, accusing him of excessive harshness towards their son due to his fear of the Yanluo Hall and the Elder Council. The Chief Commander, pressured by his wife, reluctantly agreed to release Qi Xiaoxuan.
After his release, Qi Xiaoxuan was seen with his Grandma, who was healing him. Qi Xiaoxuan shared his concerns about the increasing number of missing sorcerers in the capital, and his suspicion of a larger conspiracy given the recent appearance of Black Wind in Babao Town. He requested that Disha Hall also join the investigation. His Grandma, who is also First Master Jiang Xici, agreed, revealing that Disha Hall was already secretly investigating the disappearances.
She urged him to uncover the truth quickly, warning that if he couldn't resolve the case and prove himself, his relationship with his father would become even more strained. Later, First Master Jiang Xici and the Second Master of Disha Hall discussed the cunning methods of the perpetrators behind the disappearances, acknowledging the urgency as the Royal Sorcerer Exam approached.
Episode 8 Recap
The Royal Sorcerer exam was fast approaching, and Jiang Xici, concerned about potential unrest in the capital, instructed a subordinate to examine recent cases. His aim was to uncover the origins of missing sorcerers, their past associations, grudges, and any demons they might have subdued, hoping to find crucial clues. Meanwhile, Qi Yanran expressed her frustration with Qi Xiaoxuan, lamenting that he always had support and seemed untouchable by even Fulong Law.
She believed their "Grandma" showed him undue favoritism, even paving his way to become the Royal Sorcerer Commander-in-chief. Challenging him, she declared that their true strengths would be revealed on the battleground during the upcoming exam. Amidst this tension, Zhao Xintong revealed that Qi Xiaoxuan, whom she referred to as "Ice Cube," had been punished and was reflecting on his mistakes in prison, a turn of events that greatly worried Hu Zi.
Manzhu Shahua from the Yanluo Hall's Siyin Lineage gathered the sorcerers-in-training to educate them on the institutional structure of the Fulong Capital. She explained that the Tiangang Hall was responsible for maintaining civilian peace and eradicating demonic bandits, while the Disha Hall focused on solving complex cases and gathering evidence. The Yanluo Hall, where she served, was charged with drafting laws, overseeing, and punishing criminals.
Manzhu Shahua emphasized that the Yanluo Hall was also the custodian of the most extensive and complete compendium of all demons and magical artifacts across the three great nations, housed within its Collection Pavilion and accessible only to Royal Sorcerers. This revelation sparked Hu Zi's keen interest in joining the Yanluo Hall to research the origins of tiger demons, particularly the White Tiger and its legendary nine tails, a topic he pressed Manzhu Shahua on.
Later, finding Manzhu Shahua's lecture on the Elder Council tedious, Hu Zi secretly slipped away, intending to visit the Collection Pavilion. Wang Yuqian, like a persistent shadow, followed him. Despite Hu Zi's initial annoyance, Wang Yuqian proved instrumental by incapacitating a guard with a brick to acquire suitable attire, allowing Hu Zi to enter the pavilion while Wang Yuqian kept watch.
Inside, Hu Zi sought the "Collection of Demons across Ten Thousand Years," learning that the Wolf Demon King had been slain five centuries prior, with no wolf demons supposedly remaining. This made him question the identity of a black-robed figure who had summoned a pack of wolves ten years ago.
He also found a brief entry about the nine-tailed tiger demon, noting its bloodthirsty and destructive nature, and that it had been banished into the Netherworld Sea by ancestor Qi Wuji five hundred years ago, its primordial spirit supposedly destroyed. Qi Xiaoxuan soon discovered Hu Zi in the Collection Pavilion, scolding him for trespassing and ordering him back to class. Exiting, Hu Zi angrily blamed Wang Yuqian for failing to spot Qi Xiaoxuan approaching.
Shan Cha, having prepared pastries for Hu Zi, was abducted by an unseen assailant as she left his room. The following day, Cheng Jinian exploited the incident to malign Hu Zi, asserting that he saw Shan Cha enter Hu Zi's room the previous night and implying impropriety.
Cheng Jinian then dramatically revealed that Hu Zi possessed a ten-thousand-year demonic tail and had recently transformed into a demon in the Tiangang Hall, suggesting Hu Zi was the culprit behind Shan Cha's disappearance. Qi Xiaoxuan intervened, confirming Hu Zi's demonic energy but clarifying that the demonic tail was an outside implantation, not inherent to Hu Zi. He explained that he had brought Hu Zi to the capital specifically to cleanse him of this implanted power and clear his name.
Qi Xiaoxuan urged everyone to set aside their suspicions and unite in the search for Shan Cha. Despite an exhaustive search, even extending to a dilapidated temple, Shan Cha remained unfound. Zhao Xintong admonished Hu Zi for his lack of discretion, arguing it had brought trouble upon him, but Hu Zi remained adamant that only by finding Shan Cha could he prove his innocence.
Later, Qi Xiaoxuan received a report detailing the disappearances of several folk and bounty sorcerers, noting their commonality as independent practitioners of magic. When his subordinates suggested the Ghost Market as a potential lead, Qi Xiaoxuan dismissed them, intending to investigate alone. However, Hu Zi, having overheard the discussion, pressed Qi Xiaoxuan for details about the Ghost Market, learning it was a vast underground black market where transactions forbidden by Fulong Law transpired.
Despite Qi Xiaoxuan's initial reluctance to involve them due to safety concerns, Hu Zi, Zhao Xintong, and Wang Yuqian insisted on accompanying him, believing their help could expedite the search for Shan Cha and clear Hu Zi's name. Qi Xiaoxuan eventually relented, but only after securing their promise to strictly obey his commands while in the unpredictable environment of the Ghost Market. The group arrived at a nondescript, seldom-used entrance to the Ghost Market, which initially unsettled Wang Yuqian.
Once inside, they found themselves amidst a bustling, shadowy marketplace where various illicit dealings took place, most notably the widespread trade of Red Pearl powder. Wang Yuqian explained that this powder, ground from stolen and refined Red Pearls, induced hallucinatory states in its users and was strictly forbidden in Qianyu State, yet it thrived in Fulong's black market. Hu Zi questioned why the Three Main Halls did not enforce the law, given that Red Pearl theft was a grave offense.
Qi Xiaoxuan clarified that the Elder Council's policy was to allow merchants to seek out the elusive Red Pearls for profit, with the officials poised to intervene only after the pearls had been located and gathered, a strategy that inadvertently contributed to the Ghost Market's enduring prosperity. Their investigation then led them to Wanchun Pavilion, which Qi Xiaoxuan revealed to be the most well-informed establishment in the entire Fulong Capital, despite its outward appearance as a brothel.
It was a clandestine hub for intelligence, gathering information on everything from royal court intrigues to street-level conflicts, and entry required all visitors to surrender their weapons. Inside Wanchun Pavilion, unbeknownst to them that Shan Cha had already met a tragic end, the renowned courtesan Mu Dan captivated the guests.
She presented a challenge to those seeking her attention: to revive a withered branch of the unique Udumbara flower, also known as the "flower in the mirror, moon in the water." After a flower merchant's attempt with "sweet dew" failed, Qi Xiaoxuan stepped forward. He recounted the Udumbara's legend, explaining that it blossomed from a beautiful woman's tears shed for her fallen husband and only bloomed under moonlight.
Using a bronze mirror to reflect the moon's light, he then added that the flower also required human blood to truly blossom, performing an action that caused the seemingly lifeless branch to bloom spectacularly. Impressed, Mu Dan invited Qi Xiaoxuan to a private meeting. During their conversation, Mu Dan, aware of Qi Xiaoxuan’s reputation and recent release from imprisonment, deduced that a significant case must be at hand.
She challenged his assertion of peace in the capital, revealing her knowledge of the increasing number of missing sorcerers and the resulting public anxiety. When Qi Xiaoxuan offered her money for information, Mu Dan declined, stating her disinterest in wealth and playfully proposing a night together as her condition, though she soon clarified it was a jest and invited him to simply sit and talk. Meanwhile, Hu Zi, observing an old woman who claimed to resolve doubts, approached her, seeking answers to his own troubled mind.
Episode 9 Recap
A fortune teller predicted Hu Zi's inner turmoil, stating that the White Tiger was imprisoned and in grave danger. Hu Zi deduced that a man in a black robe was responsible. Before Hu Zi could press for more information, individuals seeking Commander Qi Xiaoxuan interrupted, and the fortune teller vanished. Hu Zi then agreed to lead them to Qi Xiaoxuan at Wanchun Pavilion.
At Wanchun Pavilion, Mu Dan challenged Qi Xiaoxuan to a game of chess, promising to reveal all clues to the missing sorcerers if he won. The game, a "Quadruple Ko" according to Mu Dan, ended in a draw. Despite her earlier promise, Mu Dan changed her mind, asking Qi Xiaoxuan to return the following night for the information. Though annoyed by her reneging on her word, Qi Xiaoxuan left without further dispute.
He then met Hu Zi and Commander's subordinates, who informed him that the body of test taker Shan Cha had been found in the suburbs and sent to Siyin Lineage for an autopsy. As they prepared to return to the Siyin Lineage, Qi Yanran, accompanied by her subordinates, blocked their path at the entrance of Wanchun Pavilion.
She demanded Hu Zi be arrested, accusing him of being a suspect due to his demonic power and close association with the deceased test taker. Qi Xiaoxuan argued that Hu Zi’s case had already been explained in the hall and that Qi Yanran was merely framing him. To avoid further confrontation, Qi Xiaoxuan agreed to take Hu Zi and the others directly to Tiangang Hall for questioning. Inside Tiangang Hall, Cheng Jinian praised Qi Yanran's decisiveness.
The Chief Commanding Master questioned Qi Xiaoxuan about his night visit to the Ghost Market and his repeated protection of Hu Zi. Qi Xiaoxuan asserted he went to the Ghost Market specifically to find clues, believing Shan Cha's death was linked to earlier sorcerer disappearances. Qi Yanran scoffed at his claims, accusing him of visiting brothels under the guise of investigation.
Qi Xiaoxuan fiercely defended his actions, swearing on the Zhao Clan's name that they were investigating, and accused Qi Yanran of malicious harassment. Qi Yanran dismissed Hu Zi's innocence, citing a rumor that Shan Cha had visited Hu Zi's room before her death. Frustrated by the lack of belief, Hu Zi boldly declared he would find the true culprit and avenge Shan Cha within five days, offering to accept imprisonment if he failed, but pleading that his companions be spared.
The Chief Commanding Master granted him only three days, stipulating that if the murderer was not found by then, Hu Zi would be jailed, the others would be disqualified from the Royal Sorcerer Exam, and Qi Xiaoxuan would be stripped of his Commander position. Hu Zi accepted the terms, much to the dismay of his worried companions. With only three days, their immediate priority was to examine Shan Cha's body at the Siyin Lineage.
There were no external injuries, but all of Shan Cha's spirit essence had been completely drained. Qi Xiaoxuan suspected the perpetrator was a demon of at least Demon Lord level. A mane found in Shan Cha's hand led Manzhu Shahua to consult the Collection of Demons across Ten Thousand Years.
She identified the mane as belonging to a creature called Bo, or Horse Demon, a dangerous beast resembling a horse with a white body, black tail, and curved claws, whose cry sounded like a drum. She revealed that Horse Demons are attracted to Nine-color Birds, whose rainbow-like feathers under sunlight have a captivating effect on them. Manzhu Shahua then provided a small magic tool that could attract Nine-color Birds.
They attempted to use a whistle to lure a Nine-color Bird, but the bird was too cautious and evaded capture, breaking the whistle in the process. Despite the setback, Hu Zi devised a new plan. He found a chicken shed and took a chicken, leaving some money behind, much to the dismay of Qi Xiaoxuan who maintained Royal Sorcerers don't steal.
Hu Zi then instructed Wang Yuqian to attach Nine-color Bird feathers to the chicken and paint it to resemble a Nine-color Bird, hoping to fool the Horse Demon. After their preparations, the four went to Zuihua House for dinner.
Over the meal, Qi Xiaoxuan outlined his strategy: he had already arranged for the open-air theatre owner to spread news throughout the capital about a public display of the Nine-color Bird, confident that this would lure the Horse Demon, as it was its primary weakness.
They assigned roles for the next day's operation: Xintong would guard the front entrance disguised as a flower seller, reporting any suspicious individuals; Wang Yuqian would manage the seating inside the theatre, also reporting on Xintong's signal; Qi Xiaoxuan would lead the capture; and Hu Zi would secure the back exit, ensuring the demon could not escape. They all understood that this was their only chance.
Meanwhile, Mu Dan waited for two hours at Wanchun Pavilion, but Qi Xiaoxuan did not appear. The next day, many people gathered at the theatre, eager to see the "divine bird." The four companions were strategically positioned, but the cunning Horse Demon sent a scout. The scout quickly detected the deception and fled. Hu Zi, sharp-eyed, immediately pursued the scout but failed to apprehend him.
Realizing their ruse had been exposed and could not be repeated, the group felt at a loss. It was then that Mu Dan arrived, informing Qi Xiaoxuan that the Horse Demon was concealed among the Royal Sorcerers themselves. Qi Xiaoxuan, initially dismissive of her source, a "homeless beggar," was challenged by Mu Dan, who asserted her network of such individuals were her most reliable informants.
Qi Xiaoxuan decided to return to Tiangang Hall to report this crucial development, but Hu Zi, impatient with official procedures, slipped away and ventured into the Ghost Market alone. In the Ghost Market, Hu Zi encountered the Horse Demon and was knocked unconscious. The Horse Demon attempted to drain his spirit essence but found Hu Zi's body peculiar and his essence impossible to absorb.
Yi Mei Fairy and Xing Zhi then appeared, revealing that Hu Zi possessed the Phurba and was an indispensable part of their grand scheme. Yi Mei Fairy warned the Horse Demon not to target Hu Zi again and commanded it to inform its master to expedite the collection of spirit essences.
She outlined the three stages required to activate the Phurba within Hu Zi: the first, the Material Stage, would require Hu Zi to slay a demon of Demon Elder level or higher; the second, the Bodhicitta Stage, would involve Hu Zi overcoming inner demons and obsessions; the final stage remained a secret.
She also mentioned that Hu Zi would be trained by the Eldest Master, and the first activation would take place on a full moon night, when the Phurba's energy was at its peak. Meanwhile, Qi Xiaoxuan and his companions searched for Hu Zi throughout the night, only to find him lying unconscious at the inn's entrance the following morning.
Hu Zi recounted his encounter with the Horse Demon in the Ghost Market, expressing bewilderment as to why the demon had returned him unharmed instead of taking his essence. Qi Xiaoxuan questioned Hu Zi’s decision to act alone without waiting for news. Hu Zi countered that waiting for the official process would waste precious time. Cheng Jinian then appeared, taunting Hu Zi and suggesting that his unharmed return implied a connection with the demon. Hu Zi reacted aggressively, but Qi Xiaoxuan intervened, preventing a public brawl and reminding them of the consequences of fighting in broad daylight.
Episode 10 Recap
Cheng Jinian, convinced that Hu Zi was involved in Shan Cha’s death and perhaps even collaborated with a demon, publicly ridiculed and confronted him, warning Zhao Xintong not to be swayed and risk her Royal Sorcerer Exam. Qi Xiaoxuan stepped in to defend Hu Zi, urging Cheng Jinian not to jump to conclusions before the truth was known.
Cheng Jinian, however, remained aggressive, accusing Qi Xiaoxuan, a descendant of the Qi Sect and commander of the Royal Sorcerers, of blindly defending Hu Zi, who had caused much trouble since arriving in the capital, leading to Qi Xiaoxuan’s corporal punishment and now dragging him into Shan Cha's demise. Hu Zi, angered by the accusations, was ready to fight, but Qi Xiaoxuan restrained him. Wang Yuqian intervened, advising Cheng Jinian to leave before things escalated.
Zhao Xintong also tried to de-escalate the situation, acknowledging their limited time. Wang Yuqian then distracted Cheng Jinian by mentioning a promised "sensual art book" which turned out to be misleading sacred texts, effectively deflecting his anger and convincing him to depart, albeit with a threat to see what Hu Zi could accomplish. Hu Zi insisted that Zhao Xintong and Wang Yuqian prioritize their Royal Sorcerer Exam and not get involved in the horse demon case.
However, both refused to step aside, asserting that catching demons was the responsibility of all sorcerers, not just Hu Zi's. They pointed out that Hu Zi's return to the inn was suspicious and that given the time constraints, splitting up was the most efficient plan. Qi Xiaoxuan and Hu Zi decided to retrace Hu Zi's steps to the ghost market, suspecting the horse demon had a specific purpose for being there.
Meanwhile, Zhao Xintong and Wang Yuqian would question shops that were open around dawn, hoping someone had seen the horse demon send Hu Zi back. High in a mountain hollow, Yi Mei and Xing Zhi surveyed the entirety of Fulong Capital. Xing Zhi updated Yi Mei about Hu Zi’s involvement in the sorcerer murder case, mentioning he was a primary suspect and that Qi Xiaoxuan's group had only one day left of the three-day deadline set by Qi Zilu.
Yi Mei remained indifferent, stating there was no need to intervene unless the Phurba was threatened. She believed the opposing faction had exposed themselves and that strategic sacrifices might be necessary. She then instructed Xing Zhi to decorate their garden with camellias, a flower her Master particularly favored. At the ghost market, Qi Xiaoxuan and Hu Zi investigated the alley where Hu Zi was attacked, looking for any clues about the horse demon's activities.
They questioned a local vendor who hadn't seen any demons but mentioned singers from the Wanchun Pavillion performing with demon masks. Suddenly, they spotted a suspicious individual running. After a chase, they apprehended him, only to discover he was not the horse demon but a child trafficker. They immediately arrested him for daring to sell children under the Tiangang Hall's jurisdiction.
Elsewhere, Zhao Xintong and Wang Yuqian found little success in their inquiries, showing shopkeepers a rough drawing of Hu Zi and a furry demon, but getting no useful information. Feeling frustrated, Zhao Xintong excused herself to investigate other areas alone. While questioning beggars in the slums with her drawing, a scream alerted Zhao Xintong to the presence of a demon. She sent someone to alert other sorcerers and confronted the horse demon herself.
In the ensuing fight, she managed to stab its left arm. By the time Qi Xiaoxuan and Hu Zi arrived, the horse demon had already escaped. Zhao Xintong informed them of the injury and suggested that a quick, one-by-one search of all Royal Sorcerers would surely reveal the horse demon.
Qi Xiaoxuan acknowledged the urgency but highlighted the bureaucratic hurdle: such a search required the full cooperation and approval of the Three Main Halls—Disha Hall (managed by his grandmother, who was more approachable) and Yanluo Hall, which strictly adhered to procedures and required the Council of Elders' consent. Hu Zi became impatient, arguing that following such a lengthy process would allow the horse demon to escape. Qi Xiaoxuan agreed, concluding that desperate times called for desperate measures.
Qi Xiaoxuan then declared that they would immediately begin a comprehensive search of all Royal Sorcerers from the Three Main Halls, requesting Yanluo Hall's cooperation but stating they would proceed regardless. He promised to apologize to Senior Zhi Xie, the chief of Yanluo Hall, later, emphasizing that missing this opportunity would lead to more sorcerer deaths. Inside Yanluo Hall, Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong searched, but found no sorcerer with an injured left arm.
They realized that Old Zhang, a senior member from the Demon Burning Pagoda, was missing. Other sorcerers tried to dissuade them from investigating him, citing his long service. However, just as they insisted on checking, Old Zhang appeared, apologizing for his delay in catching an escaped water spirit. He displayed his left arm, which showed no trace of injury.
The Yanluo Hall officials immediately seized on this, reprimanding Qi Xiaoxuan for his unauthorized and unproductive inspection, questioning his authority, and mocking the Tiangang Hall's reputation. Despite Qi Xiaoxuan's explanation that strict adherence to procedure would allow the horse demon to escape, his father, Qi Zilu, ordered Qi Yanran to confiscate Qi Xiaoxuan's Fulong Token, temporarily stripping him of his commander rank and control over Tiangang Hall sorcerers.
He gave them until midnight to solve the horse demon case, threatening imprisonment for all involved if they failed, and assigned Qi Yanran to take over the case afterward. Later, Qi Xiaoxuan's grandmother, Jiang Xici, comforted him, expressing regret for not intervening sooner due to the Tiangang Hall's reputation, but promised to support him now that his father was pressuring him. She assured him that Disha Hall would assist, sending all case documents their way.
Despite his suspension, many sorcerers voluntarily continued to follow Qi Xiaoxuan. While distributing porridge to beggars in Fulong City, Mu Dan encountered Qi Xiaoxuan. She explained that her widespread network among the commoners and beggars provided her with valuable information. Qi Xiaoxuan shared his frustration that despite injuring the horse demon, they found no injured sorcerers.
Back at Disha Hall, after reviewing lists of recently captured demons, Qi Xiaoxuan discovered a crucial pattern: a sorcerer consistently went missing within a day or even hours after a demon was captured and sent to the Demon Burning Pagoda. This strong correlation led them to suspect foul play within the Demon Burning Pagoda itself, suggesting the killer might be hiding there.
However, they recognized that investigating the Demon Burning Pagoda, a crucial stronghold for imprisoning demons and under the jurisdiction of Yanluo Hall, would be exceedingly difficult, especially after Qi Xiaoxuan's recent reprimand. With the midnight deadline fast approaching, waiting for official approval was not an option. Understanding the urgency, Qi Xiaoxuan immediately went to Tiangang Hall with his grandmother, Jiang Xici, hoping to persuade his father, Qi Zilu, to authorize an immediate investigation into the Demon Burning Pagoda.
Meanwhile, back at the inn, Cheng Jinian continued to taunt Hu Zi, accusing him of being the killer and threatening him with imprisonment if he failed by midnight. Zhao Xintong tried to mediate, and Hu Zi assured everyone he would not give up before the deadline. Privately, Hu Zi grew impatient, wondering if his own mother might be imprisoned in the pagoda. He declared that if Qi Xiaoxuan didn't return within the hour, he would act independently.
At the Demon Burning Pagoda, Hu Zi found Qi Xiaoxuan already attempting to enter, having failed to secure his father's cooperation. Despite the guards, Qi Xiaoxuan was determined to break in. Zhao Xintong soon arrived and selflessly engaged the guards, allowing Hu Zi and Qi Xiaoxuan to proceed into the pagoda. Inside, Old Zhang confronted them.
Qi Xiaoxuan apologized for their unauthorized entry, explaining the gravity of the sorcerer murders and their suspicion that an escaped demon from the pagoda was responsible. Old Zhang, feigning indignation, eventually granted them permission to search, claiming he had nothing to hide and full control over the imprisoned demons. During their search, they encountered a snake demon that used seduction. A moment later, a leaf fell from Old Zhang's person.
Old Zhang quickly threw it into a fire, dismissing it as a common weed. However, Qi Xiaoxuan detected a unique herbal scent and suspected it was more than just a weed, noting Old Zhang's haste in burning it. They questioned Old Zhang about having seen a horse demon or tiger demon, but he vehemently denied it, claiming intimate knowledge of every demon within the pagoda. Leaving the pagoda, they concluded Old Zhang was highly suspicious.
Hu Zi noted that Old Zhang's physique resembled the suspicious figure he had followed in the ghost market. Qi Xiaoxuan believed the leaf was significant, perhaps a healing herb, and suggested Zuisheng Hall in the ghost market might hold answers. After leaving the pagoda, Old Zhang proceeded to absorb the essence of another sorcerer.
He then met with his Master, who warned him that Tiangang Hall was already suspicious and that no mistakes could be tolerated before their grand plan was fully implemented. Old Zhang reassured his Master that it was almost complete. Later, Qi Xiaoxuan, Hu Zi, Zhao Xintong, and Mu Dan converged on Old Zhang's residence, seeking concrete evidence, as Old Zhang's seniority in Yanluo Hall prevented them from acting without proof.
Inside, they discovered Old Zhang's paranoid nature: he used Fragrant Soul Herb as incense to conceal his demonic aura, a scent Hu Zi recognized from his fight with the horse demon. As they searched, Old Zhang unexpectedly returned. The four quickly hid, waiting for an opportune moment. They considered confronting him directly but recognized his formidable strength, realizing they would need more than just brute force.
Episode 11 Recap
After an intense search of Zhang's room, Qi Xiaoxuan, Hu Zi, and Zhao Xintong found no trace of the Soul Devouring Herb, noting that Zhang had thoroughly cleaned the place. Despite Hu Zi's desire to immediately apprehend Zhang, Qi Xiaoxuan urged caution. They did, however, discover two tufts of horse mane, which Qi Xiaoxuan confirmed belonged to a Horse Demon. At Tiangang Hall, Zilu, the Chief Commander, and Jiang Xici, the First Master, discussed the grave situation.
Jiang Xici revealed that this particular Horse Demon, a Demon Elder, had previously escaped a Royal Sorcerer and now mysteriously reappeared in the capital. The recent emergence of a Demon Lord and numerous sorcerers found with their spirit essences drained added to the complexity, making it clear this was no simple matter. Although Hu Zi vehemently insisted Zhang was the culprit, citing past encounters where the demon appeared in a full mane, he admitted never seeing Zhang's true face.
Zhao Xintong, however, confirmed the scent of Fragrant Soul Herb, which was present in Zhang's room, was also detectable on the Horse Demon she fought. Jiang Xici noted Zhang's meticulous nature and his use of Soul Devouring Herb for healing, but no such herb was found in Zhang's room. Hu Zi argued the mane was sufficient evidence.
Zhi Xie, the senior in charge of Yanluo Hall, initially defended Zhang's forty years of loyal service at the Demon Burning Pagoda, but conceded that if Zhang truly was the Horse Demon, Yanluo Hall would not tolerate it. Qi Xiaoxuan requested the Demon Burning Pagoda be sealed, and Zhi Xie entrusted the investigation to Tiangang Hall. Later, at the Demon Burning Pagoda, Zilu and Jiang Xici confronted Zhang.
Zhang, aware of their suspicions regarding the missing sorcerers, confidently denied the accusations, finding it preposterous to be called a demon after decades of service. He dismissed the two tufts of horse mane as insufficient proof. Zhao Xintong pressed him about the Fragrant Soul Herb scent, suggesting he used it to mask his demonic aura.
Zhang retorted that he used Fragrant Soul Herb daily to remove the lingering stench of demons he dealt with at the pagoda, a practice known by many. He then turned the tables, accusing Qi Xiaoxuan and Hu Zi of framing him by planting the mane in his residence, questioning their authority to search his home without proper orders. To prove his innocence, Zhang offered to undergo any investigation but refused to admit to false accusations.
He even challenged them to find any Horse Demon hair on his body. Wang Yuqian then proposed a legendary flame test, explaining that any demon exposed to it would burn with a green flame, while non-demons would not affect its color. Zhang bravely extended his hand into the flame, and it remained unchanged. Convinced by the test, Zilu ordered Qi Xiaoxuan and Hu Zi arrested for failing to catch the real culprit and for falsely accusing Zhang.
He apologized to Zhang, promising a full explanation for the day's events. Left alone, Zhang smirked, revealing to himself that no one knew the water spirit's bone could alter the legendary flame's color. In jail, a frustrated Hu Zi argued with Qi Xiaoxuan about Zhang's obvious guilt. Qi Xiaoxuan's grandmother and Jiang Xici visited them. Grandma informed them that Zilu would hold them accountable tomorrow.
Hu Zi pleaded with Jiang Xici to release them, certain they could expose Zhang, but Jiang Xici reminded them Zhang had cleared his name publicly and promised to plead for a lighter sentence for them. Meanwhile, Mu Dan received news of Qi Xiaoxuan's imprisonment and his unhealed wounds. She immediately dispatched all the kites in the capital to search for any clue, no matter how small, related to the Horse Demon.
Zhang, meanwhile, mused about "cutting the grass to root out the problem." Wang Yuqian, as part of a new plan, deliberately got drunk at the Sorcerer's Inn, loudly proclaiming Zhang was the murderer and that the Soul Devouring Herb was the evidence.
Mu Dan found Wang Yuqian and gave him detailed records of Zhang's daily whereabouts, asking him to cross-reference them with the times sorcerers went missing, hoping it would provide the undeniable proof needed to save Qi Xiaoxuan and Hu Zi. As Wang Yuqian headed towards Tiangang Hall with the records, Zhang ambushed him. Zhang confessed to being the Horse Demon, mocking Wang Yuqian's legendary flame test and his recent provocation with the Soul Devouring Herb.
He revealed that the water spirit's bone was how he manipulated the flame's color, calling Wang Yuqian and others foolish for not noticing. Wang Yuqian, unfazed, retorted that the records would expose Zhang's movements and connect him to the missing sorcerers. He threatened to expose Zhang's crimes to Tiangang Hall. Enraged, Zhang moved to kill Wang Yuqian, but Zhao Xintong, Hu Zi, and Qi Xiaoxuan suddenly appeared. Wang Yuqian loudly declared Zhang was the murderer.
Zhang realized he had been lured into a trap. With no escape, he transformed into his true Horse Demon form. Zilu and Jiang Xici arrived with guards. Hu Zi revealed that the Horse Demon's mane found earlier in the pagoda was indeed Zhang's, and Zilu then revealed that Qi Xiaoxuan, using his ability to see essence, had found an empty bottle containing residual essence, further implicating Zhang. Overwhelmed and outnumbered, the Horse Demon fled, with Qi Xiaoxuan giving chase.
Mu Dan, witnessing Qi Xiaoxuan's pursuit of the Horse Demon, felt a deep sense of unease and followed them. She found Qi Xiaoxuan struggling against the powerful Demon Elder. The Horse Demon, upon seeing Mu Dan, questioned why a fellow demon would protect a human. Mu Dan responded that good and evil exist in both humans and demons, and despite their different paths, she was committed to protecting Qi Xiaoxuan today.
The Horse Demon then boasted that its immense power came from the refined essence of the sorcerers it had previously captured. Mu Dan quickly created a beautiful barrier of swirling flower petals to distract the Horse Demon and urged Qi Xiaoxuan to escape, apologizing for having lied to him. Qi Xiaoxuan, however, refused her help, telling her to stay out of it, and charged back into the fight.
Qi Xiaoxuan managed to stab the Horse Demon, but the cunning demon feigned death and launched a sneak attack from behind. In a critical moment, Mu Dan intercepted the fatal blow, shielding Qi Xiaoxuan. As she lay dying in the ruined temple, she told Qi Xiaoxuan that this was her first time being so close to him, and she had never intended him any harm.
Qi Xiaoxuan, grappling with the revelation of her true nature, asked himself if he truly understood demons. After Mu Dan's death, her devoted servant fiercely defended her against another person at Wanchun Pavillion who called Mu Dan a "flower demon" and an evil being. The servant insisted Mu Dan was a "good demon" who had never harmed anyone and had used her earnings to help the poor.
Qi Xiaoxuan, who witnessed the exchange, was given a hairpin by the servant, which Mu Dan had left for him. Holding it, Qi Xiaoxuan recalled a memory from years ago when he had unknowingly saved a flower, realizing it was Mu Dan. Meanwhile, at Tiangang Hall, Chief Commander Zilu received an alarming report: all demons imprisoned in the Demon Burning Pagoda had mysteriously vanished, yet their shackles remained intact, indicating no forced escape.
He lamented that the century-long reputation of the Three Main Halls was now in jeopardy. An elder, Chairman Liu, pointed out that Qi Xiaoxuan's capture and killing of the Horse Demon had inadvertently eliminated their last lead to the missing demons. Zhi Xie, taking full responsibility for the escape from Yanluo Hall, volunteered for imprisonment and transferred his authority to Zilu, believing it would facilitate the investigation.
Zilu, in a private conversation with Qi Xiaoxuan, also noted that Zhi Xie had submitted his resignation years prior, suggesting the Council of Elders had only kept him in his position to appease the public with his heroic reputation. Chairman Liu proposed sealing the capital under the pretext of preparing for the Royal Sorcerer Exam to prevent public panic and suggested delaying the report to Di City, hoping they could recapture the demons and make amends.
Zilu agreed but emphasized the need for absolute secrecy. He expressed suspicion of an inside traitor within the sorcerer ranks due to the intact shackles and pledged to initiate a private investigation, cautioning Qi Xiaoxuan to be vigilant. Later, Qi Xiaoxuan informed Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong that the Horse Demon case was solved and their names cleared, urging them to focus on preparing for the Royal Sorcerer Exam.
He vaguely mentioned another urgent case that required him to leave, and despite their protests, he left them to their studies. Back at the Sorcerer's Inn, Cheng Jinian and his companions publicly mocked Qi Xiaoxuan and Mu Dan, calling Mu Dan a "flower demon" and questioning Qi Xiaoxuan's involvement with her.
Hu Zi fiercely defended Mu Dan, asserting that she was far better than Cheng Jinian, whom he called a "rabid dog," and proclaimed that not all demons were inherently evil, almost escalating into a fight.
Episode 12 Recap
Qi Xiaoxuan returned to his residence in the capital, where he carefully planted the roots of Mu Dan, hoping that one day she would blossom again. While a maid brought back Xiaowu, a bird, Qi Yanran arrived to confront Qi Xiaoxuan. She scorned him for tending to flowers and birds amidst the significant events unfolding in the capital.
Qi Yanran blamed him for killing the Horse Demon, which severed crucial clues and caused the Council of Elders to become enraged with the Qi family, deeming him a disgrace to the Qi Sect. She also reminded him of the past, accusing him of taking control of his body and asserting that he would never achieve the position of commander as long as she was around.
It was revealed that Qi Xiaoxuan’s body harbored two distinct personalities: Yan, who was cool and composed, and Qian, who was kind and gentle. They were aware of each other’s existence, coexisted harmoniously, and considered themselves good brothers, with Qian being particularly skilled in healing and having previously helped the parrot Xiaowu. Meanwhile, at the Sorcerer's Inn, Hu Zi, enraged, grabbed Cheng Jinian by the collar.
Ximen Miaomiao, the Captain of Tiangang Hall Team 11, interrupted, asking if anyone had seen her small white cat, Xiaoyao. Cheng Jinian quickly instructed others to search for it, and Xiaoyao was eventually found. Ximen Miaomiao then announced that the details for the Royal Sorcerer preliminary exam would be revealed the following morning at the lecture stage, urging everyone to spread the word and attend on time.
Later, as Zhao Xintong expressed her desire to join Tiangang Hall to focus on capturing demons, Wang Yuqian declared his intention to follow Hu Zi wherever he went. Hu Zi revealed his goal was to enter Yanluo Hall, explaining it was the only way to find clues about his mother, even if it meant dealing with what others considered a boring administrative role involving the collection and organization of centuries-old demon information.
He stressed that regardless of the chosen hall, martial arts training was essential for the exam’s combat segment. In preparation for the exam, Hu Zi needed a suitable weapon. Eldest Master and Yi Mei Fairy discussed the Phurba within Hu Zi. Yi Mei Fairy explained that the Phurba could not indefinitely suppress the demonic tail in his body. If Hu Zi failed to control its power, he risked being consumed by it.
She stressed that activating the Phurba was the only way to fully remove the demonic tail. Eldest Master agreed, revealing his plan to guide Hu Zi in controlling the Phurba. He clarified that only the "shell" of the Phurba would be removed from Hu Zi for training, while its "body" would remain within him to continue suppressing the demonic tail. He noted that if the shell was separated for too long, it would automatically return to its body.
Eldest Master then proceeded to remove the Phurba from Hu Zi's body to begin his training. Concurrently, Qi Xiaoxuan searched the Ghost Market for demons from the Demon Burning Pagoda, but his efforts were fruitless. All the demons from the pagoda bore distinctive marks, and he found none. Since Mu Dan's transformation into a demon, Tiangang Hall had intensified its scrutiny of the Ghost Market, making it difficult to find any suitable demons.
Qi Xiaoxuan pondered whether demons had escaped from Tiangang Hall, as no other demons had made any discernible moves, leaving him without clues. Back at the exam preparations, Mo Guzi, the Captain of Tiangang Hall Team 12, appeared, initially displaying a stern demeanor that softened upon seeing Ximen Miaomiao. Ximen Miaomiao, serving as the preliminary exam supervisor, outlined the rules: the exam would commence in three days at Baihua Mountain.
Contestants were free to form teams, and the first team to collect one hundred Demon Pearls from the Bee Demons would directly qualify for the next round. Cheng Jinian attempted to form a team with Zhao Xintong, but she rejected him, choosing instead to team up with Hu Zi and Wang Yuqian.
Meanwhile, Yi Mei Fairy, unconcerned by the increased personnel at the Sorcerer's Inn, mentioned she had tasked Eldest Master with enlightening Hu Zi and teaching him to control Phurba, aiming to activate its first stage. She subtly implied that their operations would benefit from being discreet while others were in the open. Eldest Master began Hu Zi's training to control Phurba. Hu Zi initially struggled to even hold the heavy weapon, as it required channeling spirit essences.
During this time, Ximen Miaomiao observed and conversed with Mo Guzi, noting his reserved nature and pondering if being a cat would be better. Eldest Master explained that Phurba was a sentient magic artifact, not merely a tool, and Hu Zi needed to treat it as an extension of his own body, aligning his spirit essences with its "breathing."
He instructed Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong to perform a horse stance while holding water buckets, emphasizing the use of spirit essences over brute physical strength. Remarkably, once Hu Zi's golden spirit essence was depleted, holding the Phurba became effortless. Eldest Master explained that exhausting the spirit essence allowed for a better perception of the weapon, akin to muscle training after physical exertion. He mandated that Hu Zi carry the Phurba even while sleeping to fully master its control.
Qi Xiaoxuan continued his diligent search, yet he still could not find any demons bearing the distinctive mark of the Demon Burning Pagoda. All the demons he had encountered and eliminated thus far bore no such branding. On the day of the preliminary exam, Eldest Master advised the examinees to eat meat skewers and save the wooden sticks, suggesting they would be useful against the Bee Demons.
However, due to Cheng Jinian's sabotage, Hu Zi's group received a tampered map, leading them to Xiangnian Shan instead of Baihua Mountain. Upon realizing Cheng Jinian's deception, they understood the main entrance to Baihua Mountain was sealed by a protective formation designed to prevent Bee Demons from harming the populace, rendering it inaccessible. Zhao Xintong, however, devised an alternative, suggesting an old, abandoned path down a cliff face, previously used for descending the mountain.
Despite Wang Yuqian's fear of heights, they resolved to use this perilous route to enter Baihua Mountain. Inside Baihua Mountain, they soon located the Bee Demon's hive, which appeared to contain an abundance of Demon Pearls. When confronted by a swarm of Bee Demons, Hu Zi, remembering Eldest Master's advice, used the saved wooden skewers as effective weapons. At this location, Ximen Miaomiao was monitoring the situation.
Simultaneously, Yi Mei Fairy, with the intention of testing Hu Zi’s progress, released a Thousand-year Bee Demon. Ximen Miaomiao witnessed this act, prompting Yi Mei Fairy to conclude that she could not allow Ximen Miaomiao to leave. At the same time, investigators from Disha Hall, who were tracking demons, discovered that Yi Mei Fairy had illicitly imprisoned demons in Babao Town, including the Black Wind Demon Lord. They immediately dispatched a message bird to inform the Chief of this critical development.
Episode 13 Recap
In the serene setting of Baihua Mountain, Yi Mei confronted Ximen Miaomiao, revealing her true intentions. Ximen Miaomiao attempted to escape using her Cat Ghost Bell, but Yi Mei, a demonologist of treasures, unveiled her Space-splitting Blade, the very nemesis of the Cat Ghost Bell. Despite Ximen Miaomiao's repeated attempts to evade her, Yi Mei proclaimed her efforts futile.
Ximen Miaomiao was ultimately defeated and killed, but before her demise, she managed to release a final firework signal, a last defiant act. Yi Mei, determined not to let her grand plan be ruined on this full moon night, used the remains of a Blood-absorbing Demon, which she had purposefully kept, to transform into Ximen Miaomiao, ensuring her scheme would continue unobstructed. As the remaining smaller bee demons fled, a gigantic Thousand-year Bee suddenly appeared, catching everyone off guard.
The candidates, unable to fight such a massive creature, desperately scattered or feigned death. Hu Zi, Zhao Xintong, and Wang Yuqian found themselves targeted by the colossal bee. Wang Yuqian, with his limited combat ability, quickly feigned death. Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong, realizing the danger to the others, worked together to lure the massive bee away from the group and into a nearby mountain cave. The bee, due to its immense size, became trapped in the cave entrance.
Hu Zi bravely leaped onto the bee's head, gripping its horns tightly. Enraged, the bee pulled Hu Zi out of the cave and swallowed him whole. From a distance, Yi Mei, still disguised as Ximen Miaomiao, observed the unfolding battle, deliberately choosing not to intervene, as this was the precise moment she had been anticipating. Qi Xiaoxuan soon arrived, joining Zhao Xintong in the relentless struggle against the Thousand-year Bee.
They fought late into the night until Mo Guzi, having seen Ximen Miaomiao's earlier firework signal, came to their aid. Even with three of them, they were still at a numerical disadvantage against the monstrous bee. Meanwhile, Hu Zi regained consciousness in a vast, empty space. He saw a large, four-winged crane carrying a Phurba flying towards him. He attempted to grasp the Phurba but was repelled by its immense power. Suddenly, the ground beneath him crumbled.
Instinctively, Hu Zi reached out again, this time successfully seizing the Phurba to prevent his fall. As he clutched the artifact, his entire body glowed with golden light, and the Thousand-year Bee instantly exploded and died. Hu Zi appeared momentarily suspended in mid-air, the golden light fading before he fell unconscious. Witnesses confirmed that a demonic tail had briefly manifested on him.
Following the intense battle, Mo Guzi found the disguised Ximen Miaomiao, who claimed she had been severely injured by the bee's poison, and he helped her detoxify. In the aftermath, the other candidates began to fervently debate Hu Zi's true identity, fueled by the sight of his demonic tail. Cheng Jinian actively stirred discord, leading a movement to expel Hu Zi from the examination.
However, the disguised Ximen Miaomiao, addressing the crowd, announced that the Tiangang Hall had ruled that only candidates who demonstrated unity and fought bravely against the Thousand-year Bee on Baihua Mountain would be directly promoted to the final assessment, while those who panicked and fled would be disqualified. When questioned about Hu Zi's status, she quickly dismissed the concern, stating he had killed the bee and saved everyone.
Hu Zi awoke later, and upon hearing his description of the four-winged crane, the Eldest Master expressed his astonishment, recognizing it as the Demon Emperor, who had supposedly died five hundred years ago. The Eldest Master also revealed that the Phurba, while the Demon Emperor's artifact, was also a powerful tool to suppress demonic energy, and if Hu Zi could fully activate its power, his demonic tail could be entirely removed.
Zhao Xintong, who had been avoiding Hu Zi, was visibly upset. Hu Zi, realizing her anger stemmed from his reckless endangerment of his life during the bee attack, sincerely apologized. Zhao Xintong expressed her frustration, stating she did not want him to sacrifice his life for her, emphasizing that the path of a Royal Sorcerer was perilous, full of dangers from various demonic entities.
She urged him to cherish his life, admitting that she deeply cared for him and would rather not be his friend if he continued to gamble with his life. Hu Zi, touched by her confession, acknowledged her concern. Three days later, the final assessment commenced at the martial arts arena. Twenty-four candidates were randomly assigned to one of four camps by drawing lots.
These camps were led by the commanders of the Tiangang Hall: Tie Lie for the Red Camp, Miao Yin for the Blue Camp, Qi Yanran for the Black Camp, and Qi Xiaoxuan for the White Camp. The objective of the final assessment was for each camp to race against an hourglass timer to retrieve the Long Token located at the top of a central dragon pillar.
The first camp to secure the Long Token would be declared victorious, its candidates automatically promoted to Royal Sorcerers, and its commander elevated to the esteemed position of commander-in-chief of the four camps. Hu Zi initially drew a lot for the Black Camp. However, Wang Yuqian, eager for them to be in Qi Xiaoxuan's White Camp, approached Xiao Yunzi and successfully persuaded him to swap lots, explaining that he needed to protect Hu Zi due to his supposed weakness.
Thus, Hu Zi, Zhao Xintong, and Wang Yuqian all ended up in the White Camp. The competition began, quickly escalating into a fierce melee. Hu Zi found himself surrounded and attacked by four opponents. Zhao Xintong engaged Wu Lidan, who resorted to poisoning her. Despite being afflicted, Zhao Xintong managed to stab Wu Lidan and knock him off the dragon pillar before she collapsed. Meanwhile, Qi Yanran fiercely pursued Qi Xiaoxuan.
Hu Zi, combining the power of the Phurba with the enchantment, experienced a surge of power, making him significantly stronger. He quickly overwhelmed and defeated both Tie Lie and Miao Yin, forcing them to concede from the fight. With a clear path, Hu Zi ascended the dragon pillar and secured the Long Token. Just as victory seemed certain for the White Camp, Qi Xiaoxuan, exhibiting a sudden and disturbing change in demeanor, brutally stabbed Hu Zi.
Hu Zi, wounded, plummeted from the pillar, and Qi Yanran seized the opportunity, snatching the Long Token. The unexpected turn of events left everyone in the arena, including the other commanders, stunned and confused by Qi Xiaoxuan's shocking betrayal.
Episode 14 Recap
During the Royal Sorcerer Exam, Qi Xiaoxuan's demeanor drastically changed, and he violently attacked Hu Zi, leaving him with no pulse. Amidst the shock, Wang Yuqian quickly used a brick to revive Hu Zi. Following the rules of the examination, Qi Yanran was declared the winner, securing her position as Commander-in-chief, and all candidates from Black Camp were promoted to Royal Sorcerers. Later, Wu Lidan, now promoted to Camp Commander, confronted Qi Yanran.
He questioned her about Qi Xiaoxuan's sudden betrayal, accusing her of using forbidden soul-capturing magic on a colleague, an offense punishable by permanent expulsion under the Fulong Law. Wu Lidan stressed his duty to report such a transgression to Yanluo Hall. Qi Yanran denied using any evil magic, claiming Qi Xiaoxuan's actions were voluntary, part of a "deal" they had made.
She then shrewdly appealed to Wu Lidan's ambition, highlighting his desire to achieve something for the Wu family and congratulating him on his promotion, implying his complicity. Meanwhile, Jiang Xici returned to the Qi family's secret room, discovering that the mirror, which had long confined Yan, Qi Xiaoxuan's other primordial spirit, was shattered.
Qi Yanran appeared, brazenly admitting she had shattered the mirror and had previously used the Spirit Assassination Pill to consume Fei, her own primordial spirit, making her completely disappear. Jiang Xici confronted her, expressing profound disappointment in these despicable acts. Qi Yanran argued she had merely freed Fei from an eternal, dark imprisonment, claiming it was a form of liberation.
She dismissed Jiang Xici's accusations of breaking ancestral rules, asserting she had already suffered retribution (due to the pill's effect on her lineage), and sarcastically questioned when Jiang Xici, who had "indulged" the Qi family's numerous tragedies, would receive her own, even threatening to expose the Qi family's secrets if Jiang Xici continued to interfere. After asserting her role as the true successor to the Qi Sect, she departed.
Separately, Yan, now fully in control of Qi Xiaoxuan's body, was confronted by Jiang Xici, who urged him to return the body to Qian. Yan defiantly refused, stating his determination to always return, recalling his eight years of imprisonment where he endlessly counted the bricks in the secret chamber to affirm his existence. Back at the Sorcerer's Inn, candidates who had failed the exam discussed Qi Xiaoxuan's inexplicable betrayal, questioning his character and motives.
Wu Lidan, acting on Qi Yanran's orders, then arrived and commanded all unselected candidates to vacate the inn immediately, giving them only one day. He sternly dismissed their protests of unfairness, declaring that rules were made by the victors, and warned of imprisonment for any who dared to defy him. Hu Zi sought out Qi Xiaoxuan, demanding to know why he had attacked him.
Yan, still possessing Qi Xiaoxuan's body, coldly stated he had no friends and saw everyone as fake. He then moved to attack Hu Zi again, but Zhao Xintong intervened, realizing Yan's intent to kill. She pulled Hu Zi away, promising to save the real Qi Xiaoxuan. Yan taunted Hu Zi, labeling him a demon and vowing to destroy everything he held dear.
A flashback revealed the inherent nature of Qi Sect members: they are born with twin primordial spirits, but one body cannot sustain two. The ancestral Crane Beast Longevity Lock is given at birth and worn until the Spirit Lock Ritual at age twelve, when one primordial spirit is chosen to fully inherit the body. During Qi Yanran's ritual years ago, Fei was the intended inheritor.
However, the other primordial spirit, Jiang, had secretly consumed the Spirit Assassination Pill, gradually eliminating Fei. During the ritual, Fei failed to open the lock, and Jiang proclaimed her victory, taking over the name Qi Yanran and declaring Fei's fragile spirit was meant to vanish. Jiang later advised a young Qi Xiaoxuan that to survive with two primordial spirits in one body, one must inevitably eliminate the other.
Continuing the flashback, Qi Yanran (the primordial spirit Jiang) encouraged Yan to use the Spirit Assassination Pill on Qian, arguing for the survival of the fittest. Qian, unknowingly consuming the pill from Yan believing it to be healing medicine, soon collapsed as his primordial spirit began to fail. Jiang Xici discovered Qian's critical condition and immediately suspected Yan. Despite Yan's vehement denial and claims of being framed by Qi Yanran, Jiang Xici bound him, accusing him of merciless cruelty.
To save Qian, Jiang Xici placed his weakening primordial spirit in a "spirit well." This act of clear favoritism intensified Yan's resentment towards Jiang Xici. Trapped in the spirit well, Yan pleaded with Qian, attempting to convince him of his innocence. However, Qian, swayed by Jiang Xici's accusations and Qi Yanran's earlier lessons on self-preservation, began to doubt Yan and internalize the idea of relying only on himself.
Witnessing Qian's lost faith and the deteriorating situation, Yan declared he would never again relinquish control of the body. As Jiang Xici attempted to extract Qian from the spirit well, asserting it was Yan's rightful place, Yan defiantly resisted, asserting control over his own destiny even within the spirit mirror world where Jiang Xici's powers were limited. The spirit well began to close, threatening all within.
Back in the present, Jiang Xici successfully repaired the shattered mirror and, using an incantation, returned Yan's primordial spirit to its confinement, allowing Qian to fully regain control of Qi Xiaoxuan's body. Upon regaining consciousness, Qian found a cryptic message left by Yan, presumably written in blood. Following this, Qi Yanran conversed with the re-imprisoned Yan, praising his strength compared to the "cowardly and incompetent" Qian and promising to help him escape again with a new plan.
Hu Zi then confronted Qi Yanran, accusing her of casting a spell on Qi Xiaoxuan. Qi Yanran dismissed his claims, asserting that Qi Xiaoxuan's aggressive behavior was his true nature, merely unmasked. As her guards prepared to deal with Hu Zi, a summons from the Chief Commander for an urgent meeting at Tiangang Hall provided a timely reprieve.
Before leaving, Qi Yanran ominously warned Hu Zi about the "demonic tail" within him and vowed to execute him if they ever met again. Shortly thereafter, Hu Zi encountered Qi Xiaoxuan on the street, who seemed to have returned to his former self. However, Qi Xiaoxuan coldly declared that Hu Zi was a demon and that he, as a Royal Sorcerer, could never be friends with such a being, ordering him to leave the capital.
He confessed that their past friendship, including the red bead and the exam, was a manipulation, and Hu Zi was nothing more than a pawn, then discarded a jade pendant as a symbolic gesture. Despite Zhao Xintong and Wang Yuqian's heartbroken protests and attempts to appeal to their past bond, Qi Xiaoxuan remained unyielding. Deeply wounded by his words and actions, Hu Zi, Zhao Xintong, and Wang Yuqian turned and walked away. Once they were gone, the cold facade on Qi Xiaoxuan's face crumbled, revealing his profound anguish.
Episode 15 Recap
A routine patrol took a terrifying turn when the sorcerer in charge was suddenly possessed. He violently killed two of his subordinates, his voice chillingly muttering, "Sacrificing souls, it will never end." Meanwhile, Qi Xiaoxuan found himself in a solemn chamber with his Grandma, contemplating a large, ancient barrier, which he then realized was a ship's bow.
His Grandma revealed it was the bow of a legendary ship that, five hundred years prior, carried the sorcerer army to safety, escaping the Dianfeng Valley. The ship itself was crafted from the very bones of the Demon Emperor; their ancestor's slaying of the Demon Emperor had tragically triggered the widespread overflow of the Netherworld Sea. Upon their return to the mainland, the ship was dismantled, with only its bow remaining under the protection of the Qi family.
When Xiaoxuan questioned why their ancestor did not return with the others, his Grandma, feeling weary, instructed him to release the Eldest Master. From within a mirror, the Eldest Master explained that during the Netherworld Sea's devastating overflow, the Legendary Ship had to set sail prematurely to evade the rampant evil spirits. The ancestor, to protect everyone, ensured others boarded but was unable to board himself.
The crack on the mirror was left when the ancestor threw the mirror onto the ship. Fortunately, the ancestor's child, along with Ye Kongming's child, were safely brought back, marking the first individual in the Qi Sect to possess two primordial spirits. The weight of this legacy filled Qi Xiaoxuan with complex emotions as he gazed at his own reflection. Back at the Sorcerer's Inn, the atmosphere was tense.
The inn worker informed Hu Zi, Zhao Xintong, and Wang Yuqian that they had to vacate the premises by midnight, as ordered by the Tiangang Hall, despite their earlier agreement to move the next morning. Most of the unsuccessful candidates had already left, even the injured carried out on stretchers. Wang Yuqian expressed disgust at the situation, but Hu Zi, disheartened by Qi Xiaoxuan's earlier actions, dejectedly agreed to move, advising against confronting them immediately.
While Wang Yuqian and Zhao Xintong began packing, Hu Zi stepped out briefly. Determined to fight for her sect's honor, Zhao Xintong secretly made her way to Fame Hall, a place where her Zhao Sect once held a rightful position but had been expelled after her father chose to leave the Tiangang Hall. There, she confronted Wu Lidan, accusing him of manipulating the Royal Sorcerer Exam into a farce.
She defiantly declared her resolve to ensure the Zhao Sect's return to Fame Hall. Though initially ordered to be apprehended for trespassing, Wu Lidan surprisingly ordered her release. After an arduous night, the trio struggled to find new lodging, as every inn they approached refused to accommodate them. Wang Yuqian suspected Qi Yanran might be behind the widespread refusal.
Eventually, they stumbled upon an abandoned mansion in the suburbs, which, despite its disheveled appearance, Wang Yuqian optimistically declared a potential "heaven" after a good cleaning, having already brought an excessive amount of everyday items, including a pickling jar, a special barbecue grill, and other peculiar necessities, much to Zhao Xintong's amusement. Meanwhile, in Fulong City, a clandestine meeting took place between Yi Mei and a black-robed man at a humble noodle stall.
The black-robed man ominously reported that his "wolves" had been unleashed, stating that everything was ready and they just needed to wait. He predicted that within five days, these "wolves" would devour the capital's faith in sorcerers, turning them into public enemies. Yi Mei, in turn, assured him she had her own arrangements for Hu Zi, expressing a wistful attachment to the noodle stall, which she lamented she would soon no longer be able to visit.
Later, gathered around a crackling fire in their new, temporary home, Hu Zi, Zhao Xintong, and Wang Yuqian discussed their future. Wang Yuqian, burning his written work, declared that Qi Xiaoxuan no longer deserved to be his protagonist, having lost faith in him. Zhao Xintong, however, remained resolute in her ambition to enter the Tiangang Hall, believing in its underlying noble origins despite recent disappointments and the disheartening recent conduct of the Tiangang Hall officials.
It was then that Hu Zi, mustering his courage, made a startling confession: he believed he might truly be a demon. He revealed that a demonic tail in his body was inherited from his mother, a tiger demon, and he was only recently recalling memories that linked him to it. He admitted his fear of their reaction and his reluctance to share this secret earlier. To his surprise, neither Zhao Xintong nor Wang Yuqian were afraid.
In fact, Wang Yuqian, having hunted countless demons, found it hard to believe Hu Zi was one, given his lack of other demonic traces, and even humorously suggested Hu Zi stick to being human. Hu Zi explained he still lacked clarity and intended to visit Yanluo Hall to research tiger demons.
Both Zhao Xintong and Wang Yuqian, unwavering in their friendship, immediately offered to accompany him on his quest to find his mother, affirming their commitment to stay with him in the capital. Back in the city, the investigation into the deranged sorcerer continued. Initial findings, as noted by Qi Xiaoxuan, suggested the cause was not a typical demonic possession, as the sorcerer showed no physical injuries, only a complete loss of sanity and an overwhelming desire to kill.
Qi Xiaoxuan’s Grandma expressed deep concern, fearing the involvement of Wicked Spirits from the Netherworld Sea. She warned that if her suspicions were true, the situation was dire, potentially dooming not just Fulong but all three main states. Qi Xiaoxuan vehemently urged that the Elder Council not suppress such a critical matter, and his Grandma agreed to secretly dispatch messages to Qianyu State and Julun State to forewarn them.
Meanwhile, Mo Guzi paid a visit to Miaomiao, expressing concern for her health and noting a change in her voice. The "Miaomiao" he encountered, who was in fact Xing Zhi in disguise, struggled to recall specific details about their shared past and internal lingo, like "smashing food" meaning feeding cats, leading Mo Guzi to sense something amiss. " Miaomiao" curtly dismissed him, urging him to learn to take care of himself.
The very next day, two more sorcerers from Disha Hall, who were supposedly reliable messengers, went mad in the crowded streets, brandishing their swords and attacking innocent people. Hu Zi, Zhao Xintong, and Wang Yuqian, witnessing the chaos, quickly intervened and bravely subdued the deranged sorcerers. Just as Qi Xiaoxuan and his Royal Sorcerers arrived on the scene, Hu Zi and his friends, perhaps deliberately avoiding any interaction with Qi Xiaoxuan, quickly departed.
The new incidents intensified the conflict within the higher echelons. During a heated meeting, the Elder Council and Commander-in-Chief Qi Yanran prioritized protecting the Tiangang Hall's reputation over publicly acknowledging the threat to citizens' lives. They decided to suppress the truth, labeling the possessed sorcerers as "deranged" and initiating a private investigation into the cause. Qi Xiaoxuan, who held a lower rank and little sway, vehemently protested this decision, arguing that people's lives were far more important than reputation.
However, Qi Yanran sternly rebuked him for overstepping his bounds and ordered the two subdued sorcerers to be taken away. This infuriated Qi Xiaoxuan, who condemned the Elder Council's attempt to cover up such a severe matter. Mo Guzi, meanwhile, found himself increasingly disturbed by Miaomiao’s behavior. Her sudden agreement with the Elder Council's decision, which she had previously opposed, heightened his suspicions. He directly confronted her about how much she had changed.
Later, Mo Guzi secretly observed "Miaomiao" meeting with a black-robed individual. Confronting the black-robed person, whom he recognized, Mo Guzi demanded to know their identity. At that moment, "Miaomiao" appeared and urged the black-robed figure to leave. Mo Guzi, now certain, declared, "You're not her." The confrontation quickly turned violent as Mo Guzi attacked the impostor. Realizing the impostor was not Miaomiao, Mo Guzi declared, "You're not her!" The impostor then revealed herself to be Yi Mei.
Despite her initial attempts to deceive him, Yi Mei admitted her skill at acting and Mo Guzi’s sharp intuition for discovering her true identity. Yi Mei lamented that Mo Guzi, a captain of considerable capability and a man of deep affection, particularly for the real Miaomiao, was now dead, killed by Xing Zhi.
Jiang Xici, meanwhile, instructed the Disha Hall Second Master to discreetly investigate Yi Mei's mysterious activities of raising demons, recognizing her as a respected sorceress across the continent, yet baffled by her involvement in such nefarious practices. Later, Yi Mei sought out Hu Zi, feigning concern over recent events and Qi Xiaoxuan's attack on him.
She subtly reminded him of their differing identities – his as one with a demonic tail, and Qi Xiaoxuan's as a Royal Sorcerer, implying they were on different paths. Yi Mei then began guiding Hu Zi toward activating the Phurba's second stage, known as the Bodhicitta Phurba (Enlightenment Level). She explained that to achieve this, he would need to relinquish his "most important thing."
Hu Zi entered a deep meditative state, experiencing vivid illusions of his past: childhood games, his grandmother patching his clothes, villagers ostracizing him as a "jinx," and tender moments with his ailing mother, who promised to always stay by his side. He saw a gateway, tempting him to stay in this peaceful illusion with all his loved ones. Witnessing Hu Zi's trance-like state, Wang Yuqian and Zhao Xintong became concerned, fearing he was losing himself to a dangerous illusion.
Just as Wang Yuqian contemplated seeking a physician, he seized his Brick and, in an act of desperation, slammed it onto Hu Zi's head. The sudden impact jolted Hu Zi from the illusion. He broke free, realizing the falsehood of his dream and reaffirming his commitment to his path in the outside world, telling his loved ones in the vision that he would find them.
When he fully awoke, he asked Wang Yuqian if he had hit him with the Brick, which Wang Yuqian confirmed was his action, prompted by Zhao Xintong's idea. Remembering Yi Mei's earlier warning about the capital's special situation, Hu Zi decided against revealing the Phurba's activation, simply stating he had been "practicing some mental methods" to avoid drawing unnecessary attention.
Episode 16 Recap
Over two days, a fifth sorcerer-related incident of violence occurred in the capital. Upon receiving the report, Qi Xiaoxuan immediately rushed to the scene. There, his subordinate, Wang Wen, suddenly went mad without warning, killing people in the street. To protect the citizens, Qi Xiaoxuan was forced to personally kill him. As Wang Wen perished, he repeatedly muttered, "Sacrificing souls, it will never end." Later, Hu Zi complained that his clothes kept tearing.
Zhao Xintong, who claimed her father had trained her in needlework, offered to mend them, but she ended up stitching the sleeves together, much to Hu Zi and Wang Yuqian's amusement. Wang Yuqian returned with a large basket of wild mushrooms, but Hu Zi immediately declared them poisonous, jokingly warning that eating them would lead to a funeral. Hu Zi then confidently offered to cook, boasting of his "Divine Tiger's private dishes," the best from Ruyun Village.
However, his cooking was so unappetizing that Wang Yuqian and Zhao Xintong struggled to eat, eventually making excuses about being full and needing to digest, quickly escaping the scene. Outside, they encountered Yu Qian and the Jinhua sisters trio, who had been directed by Xiao Yunzi to find them.
From their friends, Hu Zi, Zhao Xintong, and Wang Yuqian learned that the demons from the Demon Burning Pagoda had gone missing, and sorcerers were mysteriously losing their minds and killing people. They also discovered that the official reason for the city's lockdown – ensuring the smooth running of the Royal Sorcerer Exam – was a cover for the Three Main Halls secretly hunting down these escaped demons, a fact the Council of Elders was suppressing.
The friends relayed that Qi Xiaoxuan was suffering, having been forced to kill Wang Wen, his loyal subordinate of many years, who had suddenly gone mad. They also mentioned that Commander-in-chief Qi Yanran, upon her ascension, had transferred many of Qi Xiaoxuan's subordinates and assigned key cases to Uli Dan, causing Qi Xiaoxuan to repeatedly challenge the Council of Elders.
Despite their outward appearance of indifference, particularly given Qi Xiaoxuan had once exiled Hu Zi and stabbed him, both Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong privately expressed concern for him, acknowledging that Qi Xiaoxuan might have been trying to protect Hu Zi from Qi Yanran's temper. Meanwhile, in Tiangang Hall, Qi Xiaoxuan, still reeling from Wang Wen's death, was consoled by his grandmother, the First Master, who affirmed he did the right thing.
The Second Master returned to report that despite searching extensively within a ten-mile radius of Fulong Capital, no trace of Yi Mei had been found. The First Master, understanding Yi Mei was a highly skilled demonologist of treasures, acknowledged that finding her would be difficult if she wished to remain hidden. Qi Xiaoxuan suggested visiting Senior Zhi Xie in prison, believing that as the long-time head of Yanluo Hall, he might possess crucial information about past events.
The First Master agreed but reminded her grandson to treat Zhi Xie with utmost respect, given his venerable status and past heroism in saving countless lives during the Netherworld Sea spread. The First Master and Qi Xiaoxuan met Zhi Xie in his prison cell, who welcomed them politely but was direct. The First Master explained the strange occurrences in the capital and the evidence found at Yi Mei's Sikong Pavilion, indicating she was raising demons from the Demon Burning Pagoda.
Zhi Xie admitted his poor judgment in recruiting Old Zhang, but claimed he had reported everything and suspected a hidden mastermind behind Yi Mei, as she alone couldn't have released all the demons. He suggested they investigate the Three Main Halls and the Council of Elders privately.
Upon hearing about the sorcerers' sudden madness, Zhi Xie recalled an ancient "Netherworld Sea Resentful Spirit Black Magic" from about two hundred years ago, a spell capable of taking control of a person's mind. He asserted that the skill was thought to be extinct, and now only Yi Mei, who ironically had helped defeat the original practitioner of this very magic, would know it.
Zhi Xie concluded that Yi Mei was likely orchestrating all these events, including Old Zhang's actions and the sorcerers' possession. However, Qi Xiaoxuan expressed skepticism, questioning how Zhi Xie, being in prison, could be so certain. The First Master, knowing Zhi Xie for years, agreed, noting his uncharacteristic decisiveness. They both deduced that with all clues pointing to Yi Mei, finding her was the key to unraveling the mystery.
Around this time, Commander-in-chief Yanran sent orders for Qi Xiaoxuan to search for Captain Mo Guzi, seemingly to redirect him from the current sorcerer investigation. Recognizing Yanran's true intent to sideline Qi Xiaoxuan, the First Master intervened, instructing Qi Xiaoxuan to continue his current investigation while she personally undertook the search for Mo Guzi. On the streets, one of Qi Xiaoxuan's subordinates found himself surrounded by an enraged mob, who blamed him for the sorcerers' killings.
Just as the situation threatened to turn violent, Hu Zi, Zhao Xintong, and Wang Yuqian appeared. Hu Zi stepped forward to calm the crowd, explaining that the killings were too strange and likely the work of a demon, urging them not to be manipulated into fighting the Royal Sorcerers who had protected the city for centuries. He even offered to fight them himself to prevent bloodshed, causing the crowd to disperse.
The grateful subordinate later reported the incident to Qi Xiaoxuan, who felt a pang of guilt. Still haunted by Wang Wen's dying words, "It will never end," Qi Xiaoxuan spent the night pondering their meaning, secretly watching Hu Zi from outside his bamboo hut, nearly giving himself away by stepping on a dry branch.
With the Royal Sorcerers in Fulong City preoccupied with their own issues, Hu Zi, Zhao Xintong, and Wang Yuqian decided it was the perfect opportunity to infiltrate Yanluo Hall, believing it would be easier now. Meanwhile, the First Master, searching for Mo Guzi, visited Miaomiao at the Collection Pavilion. She subtly tested Miaomiao, asking about Mo Guzi.
Miaomiao claimed ignorance, but her failure to recall the taboo surrounding Mo Guzi's father's alcoholism, a well-known fact to those close to him, immediately raised the First Master's suspicions. Furthermore, she detected a faint herbal scent of dahurian angelica and beefsteak plant on Miaomiao. Following the faint herbal scent she detected on Miaomiao, the First Master and the Second Master embarked on a search through the forest.
After some time, the First Master precisely located a burial spot using a magic item. The Second Master dug, revealing Mo Guzi's body. The First Master deduced that he had taken "Soul Losing Powder," putting him in a state of false death, and swiftly used a spell to revive him. Mo Guzi, regaining consciousness, gasped out that Yi Mei was responsible for killing Miaomiao and had then impersonated her using her corpse.
He further revealed that Zhi Xie was Yi Mei's co-conspirator, admitting he had witnessed them secretly meeting in the capital. Mo Guzi, filled with vengeful resolve for Miaomiao, warned that their combined efforts were designed to unleash a far greater crisis. Back at Tiangang Hall, a revived Mo Guzi dramatically exposed Yi Mei's deception and her murderous alliance with Zhi Xie.
He accused them of orchestrating the disappearance of the demons and Miaomiao's death, and immediately proposed a three-hall trial for Zhi Xie. However, the Elders expressed hesitation about publicly confronting Yi Mei due to her revered status from five hundred years prior, fearing it would tarnish the Three Main Halls' reputation and incite public discontent. Despite their concerns, the First Master insisted on a full investigation, emphasizing the dire threat posed by the missing demons.
Ultimately, she suggested that the Chief Commanding Master, Zhi Xie's former student, personally interrogate him to discreetly ascertain the truth, leveraging their master-disciple bond. The Chief Commanding Master agreed and went to Zhi Xie's cell. Without prompting, Zhi Xie immediately began to speak, initially accepting blame for the missing demons.
However, he quickly revealed a cynical, long-held philosophy: the true reason the Three Main Halls had endured for five centuries was not their demon-slaying and protection of the people, but the ingrained human-demon rivalry, which fostered public fear and imperial dependence, thereby ensuring the Halls' power and status.
He concluded that demons were the very foundation of their power and success, and with his age, he felt compelled to finally share this "truth," questioning the unquestioned five-hundred-year-old narrative of human-demon animosity.
Episode 17 Recap
Eunuch Liu arrived at the Three Main Halls, where an elder had already been waiting for Chief Commander Qi Zilu for some time. A subordinate informed them that Qi Zilu was on his way back from investigating a case in the prison and would arrive shortly. Upon Qi Zilu's arrival, Eunuch Liu presented an imperial decree. The edict stated that the recent demon escapes and sorcerers going berserk in the capital were due to Tiangang Hall's dereliction of duty.
Therefore, Qi Zilu was ordered to lead two camps of Tiangang Hall sorcerers to Di City to protect His Majesty, leaving two camps behind to guard the capital. The investigation into the demons was to be handed over to Disha Hall, and Qi Zilu was to depart immediately without delay.
Qi Zilu attempted to refuse, explaining that Di City already had the elite sorcerer army and military forces of Fulong State to protect the Emperor, so His Majesty's safety was assured. He argued that the capital was currently in dire need of manpower, and dispatching all the elites would make it difficult to defend against demons if the situation escalated.
Eunuch Liu accused him of disobeying the imperial edict, reminding him of the Three Main Halls' elevated status and suggesting that transferring the sorcerers out of the capital would also offer an explanation to the public regarding the rampaging sorcerers. Qi Zilu reiterated his concern about the capital's safety due to Di City's distance, fearing a major disaster if support couldn't reach them.
Eunuch Liu firmly stated that both cities belonged to His Majesty and if Qi Zilu couldn't fulfill his duty to protect the Emperor, other troops could be chosen, implying that Tiangang Hall could be destroyed. Faced with this threat, Qi Zilu reluctantly complied with the decree. Grandma Jiang Xici mused that a massive thunderstorm seemed to be brewing in Fulong State, though she couldn't pinpoint its cause. Her grandson, Qi Xiaoxuan, inquired about any progress with Zhi Xie.
Jiang Xici admitted there was no direct evidence to implicate him, leading Qi Xiaoxuan to suggest investigating Yi Mei instead. Later, Hu Zi expressed his deep unease to Zhao Xintong, revealing his worry that the capital's anomalies might be connected to his mother, a tiger demon. He had read in the "Collection of Demons across Ten Thousand Years" that Nine-tailed Tiger Demons were bloodthirsty and cruel, bringing endless disasters.
He wondered if his mother had escaped from the Demon Burning Pagoda. Zhao Xintong reassured him, reminding him that his mother was gentle and kind, unwilling to harm even an ant, completely unlike the book's description. She urged him to trust his own heart and not be swayed by external opinions. Jiang Xici then ordered all Disha Hall sorcerers to launch a full-scale search for Yi Mei.
She also instructed her Second Master to contact civilian sorcerers across Fulong State to gather intelligence on Yi Mei and report any clues. To Qi Xiaoxuan, she emphasized that with two Royal Sorcerer camps transferred, the capital was vulnerable. She tasked him with gathering the city's sorcerer army for round-the-clock patrols to ensure the safety of the populace. Qi Xiaoxuan promised to do his utmost.
Meanwhile, the First Master recalled that the master had previously split spirit essence with Yi Mei. By holding their breath and concentrating, they could locate each other. Using this ability, the First Master found Yi Mei and questioned why she was opposing Fulong State and its countless citizens. Yi Mei claimed to have difficulties but refused to reveal them.
She then returned the spirit essence to the First Master, ending their friendship, stating that their next meeting would be a fight to the death. However, Qi Yanran, the Commander-in-Chief, confronted Jiang Xici, accusing her of nepotism for openly entrusting the capital's defense to Qi Xiaoxuan, despite Qi Yanran being the one responsible. Jiang Xici retorted by questioning the integrity of Qi Yanran's rise to power, declaring she would never trust someone so immoral.
Qi Yanran asserted that Jiang Xici's oppression only strengthened her and hinted that pushing her too far might lead to regrettable actions from which Jiang Xici would suffer. Jiang Xici firmly vowed that as long as she lived, she would prevent Qi Yanran from harming Qi Xiaoxuan, to which Qi Yanran reminded her that she was also her granddaughter. Yi Mei then sought out Qi Yanran, even though she was a wanted person.
She proposed a deal, which Qi Yanran initially rejected, citing Yi Mei's collusion with demons and her own position as a Royal Sorcerer Commander-in-Chief. Yi Mei countered by revealing her knowledge of Qi Yanran's unscrupulous methods to gain her position and the true circumstances behind Qi Xiaoxuan's actions during the finals.
She claimed to be the creator of the Qi family's Spirit Locking Ritual and offered to "save" Qi Xiaoxuan by permanently changing the "Qian" within him to "Yan," making the spirits irreversible. Yi Mei asserted that this "spirit-switching secret art" was unique to her and irreversible. She highlighted how Jiang Xici had always underestimated Qi Yanran, limiting her achievements and status.
As part of the deal, Yi Mei demanded that Qi Yanran constantly report Jiang Xici's plans and movements, in exchange for Yi Mei clearing the path for Qi Yanran to solidify her command, including killing Jiang Xici. Yi Mei pressed Qi Yanran for a decision. Subsequently, Qi Yanran tried to enlist Wu Lidan, informing him that she had made a deal with Yi Mei.
Wu Lidan, while admitting he wasn't a "gentleman hero," stated he had principles and wouldn't engage in actions that violated the core tenets of a Royal Sorcerer. Qi Yanran attempted to persuade him by reminding him of his past defeat and slow career progression, promising him prestige within the Royal Sorcerers if he helped. Wu Lidan asked for the specifics of the deal.
Qi Yanran revealed her part: providing information to Yi Mei, who would then kill the First Master, Jiang Xici. Wu Lidan was appalled, calling it an act that would make him a "thousand-year sinner" of the Three Main Halls and questioning how Qi Yanran could contemplate such an unfilial act against her own grandmother. He declared that he had clearly underestimated her. Separately, Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong were trying to fish, with Wang Yuqian nearby.
Zhao Xintong playfully teased Hu Zi about his lack of fishing skill. As they got closer, she abruptly complained about his smell, asking how long it had been since his last shower and calling him dirty. She told him to stay away. Hu Zi, taking her words to heart, went to their bamboo house to bathe, hoping that Zhao Xintong would no longer find him smelly.
After the Tiangang Hall sorcerer army's transfer, incidents of attacks on citizens in the capital decreased. However, the Royal Sorcerers' reputation had plummeted, causing many people to avoid them like demons, fearing to leave their homes. To alleviate public anxiety, Jiang Xici ordered Royal Sorcerers to patrol in plain clothes.
Meanwhile, Manzhu Shahua reported to Jiang Xici her findings from inspecting the sorcerers' corpses: their primordial spirits had dispersed during the attacks, confirming they were merely walking corpses possessed by wicked spirits. This pointed to the forbidden skill of controlling wicked spirits, which was supposed to be sealed in Fulong State. Jiang Xici questioned Manzhu Shahua if anyone had accessed the Collection Pavilion's secret room, as only the Chiefs of the Three Main Halls had such authority.
Manzhu Shahua denied it, but Jiang Xici mused that a Chief could potentially access the forbidden skills. Although Manzhu Shahua instantly suspected Jiang Xici was hinting at Zhi Xie and vouched for him, Jiang Xici insisted they check for themselves. They found the seals intact. However, Manzhu Shahua recalled seeing someone resembling Zhi Xie touching a forbidden book on the day of the Royal Sorcerer Exam finals.
She later went to the prison to question Zhi Xie directly about his whereabouts that day. Zhi Xie vehemently denied having been at the Collection Pavilion, stating he was in prison, which seemed to put Manzhu Shahua's doubts to rest. She apologized for her rudeness and reminded him to guard the Collection Pavilion diligently now that the Chief Commander was gone. The streets of the capital remained quiet and deserted due to the public's fear of Royal Sorcerers.
Hu Zi, Zhao Xintong, and Wang Yuqian decided to seek clues at the bustling Ghost Market. There, they encountered an individual dressed as a Royal Sorcerer who was robbing people but not harming them. The trio apprehended the robber, who admitted to impersonating a "deranged sorcerer" to exploit the Royal Sorcerer's notorious reputation for financial gain.
Discovering Red Pearl powder hidden under the robber's bracelet, Hu Zi decided against returning the stolen money, opting instead to distribute it among the impoverished citizens of the slums. At Yanluo Hall, Manzhu Shahua continued her duties, where she uncovered a disturbing discrepancy: the actual number of captured demons was several times higher than recorded, and the count of sorcerers whose spirit essences had been drained also far exceeded official records.
Pondering the whereabouts of the excess demons and the purpose of the drained essences, Manzhu Shahua realized Yanluo Hall harbored deep secrets. As she resolved to inform Jiang Xici, Zhi Xie suddenly appeared and attacked her, forcibly draining her spirit essences. Later, at their lodging, a deranged sorcerer attempted to strangle Hu Zi. Wang Yuqian intervened, subduing the sorcerer by hitting him twice with a brick. The sorcerer immediately quieted down and began walking directly towards Yanluo Hall.
Puzzled by his behavior, the trio followed him. Inside Yanluo Hall, they discovered a hidden mechanism leading to an underground area. Wang Yuqian left a distinctive mark on the mechanism for a potential future rescue. As they descended, they heard eerie chanting: "Sacrificing souls, it will never end." They found Zhi Xie performing a ritual, surrounded by what appeared to be controlled, seemingly joyous figures.
Hu Zi recognized a golden accessory on Zhi Xie, realizing he was the black-robed man who had taken his mother years ago. As they tried to retreat, Zhi Xie sensed their presence and revealed himself. Meanwhile, Qi Xiaoxuan received a report from his informant guarding Yanluo Hall that three individuals—Hu Zi, Zhao Xintong, and Wang Yuqian—had secretly entered. Qi Xiaoxuan immediately led a search, but they found nothing inside the main hall.
However, he soon discovered Wang Yuqian's mark on the hidden mechanism. Following the mark, Qi Xiaoxuan entered the underground secret area. He confronted Zhi Xie, who acknowledged Qi Xiaoxuan's sharp intellect. Zhi Xie cynically stated that the Three Main Halls had devolved; its elders, once heroic demon slayers, were now bureaucrats obsessed with power and status.
He claimed that this human flaw had persisted for sixty years, describing the so-called "prestige" of the era as an empty illusion built on the corruption of human hearts and the expansion of desires. When Qi Xiaoxuan demanded to know why Zhi Xie had done all this, Zhi Xie countered by questioning why demons were fated to be slaughtered and stripped of dignity by sorcerers who measured their achievements by the number of demons killed.
He argued that just as humans possess both good and evil, so too do demons. Qi Xiaoxuan then retorted that this moral complexity did not justify Zhi Xie's actions of killing people and sorcerers.
Episode 18 Recap
There are both good and bad people, as there are good and bad demons. However, this fact does not justify Zhi Xie's brutal slaughter of common people and sorcerers. A group of individuals confronts Zhi Xie, proclaiming their steadfast commitment to upholding the mission and dignity of a Royal Sorcerer. Zhi Xie scoffs at their resolve, challenging them to demonstrate how they will protect their so-called mission and dignity.
As their confrontation escalates, Zhi Xie quickly disengages, and the collapsing Yanluo Hall compels them to quickly evacuate. Cheng Jinian urgently informs his father, Cheng Shu, that Zhi Xie is indeed a demon, as numerous witnesses saw him transform into a massive demonic form, leading a horde of demons from Yanluo Hall. Cheng Shu initially dismisses his son’s panic, reminding him of his duty as a royal sorcerer.
Nevertheless, Cheng Shu privately acknowledges that Fulong City is on the verge of a significant upheaval. After the narrow escape, Zhao Xintong and Wang Yuqian depart, leaving Hu Zi and Qi Xiaoxuan to converse privately. Qi Xiaoxuan apologizes to Hu Zi, who confronts him for withholding information, feeling it indicated a lack of trust. Qi Xiaoxuan then reveals a long-guarded secret of the Qi family: the 500-year-old curse of twin primordial spirits.
He explains that one primordial spirit, Qian (who is Qi Xiaoxuan), remains, while the other, Yan, is locked within a Spirit Mirror via a Spirit Locking Ritual. He clarifies that the individual who attacked Hu Zi at the arena was Yan, not himself, as Qi Yanran had deliberately broken the Spirit Mirror, allowing Yan to possess his body.
Qi Xiaoxuan explains that given the complex situation and Qi Yanran's potential to harm Hu Zi after her promotion, advising Hu Zi to leave the capital was the safest option. Hu Zi admits he had sensed Qi Xiaoxuan's feigned coldness that night and never believed he would betray a friend, but the intricacies of the Qi family's situation truly surprised him. Qi Xiaoxuan assures him that Yan has since been sealed.
In turn, Hu Zi confides his own secret: he is the son of a tiger demon, a fact he only fully grasped after Yi Mei instilled the Phurba into him, triggering forgotten memories. Qi Xiaoxuan, however, reveals he already knew, having seen Hu Zi transform into his tiger demon form while Qi Xiaoxuan himself was trapped in the Spirit Mirror during the exam.
He reaffirms their bond, stating that, like Mu Dan who sacrificed herself for him, Hu Zi is a friend he would go through life and death with, and his demonic nature does not change their friendship. Zhao Xintong and Wang Yuqian then rejoin them, playfully teasing Hu Zi about his earlier frustration and debating whether Wang Yuqian’s possession is a crane or a goose. The group discovers that Yi Mei and Zhi Xie are conspiring.
It is revealed that the Second Master had previously found Yi Mei raising demons in Babao Town, and that she killed Ximen Miaomiao to assume her identity in Fulong Capital. This leads them to conclude that Yi Mei was also responsible for the Black Wind incident in Babao Town. Hu Zi recalls that Yi Mei approached him after the exam, offering to help him activate Phurba to enhance his power, which indeed proved effective.
Discussions among the Eldest Master, Jiang Xici, and Hu Zi's group reveal that Phurba possesses three stages—Material, Bodhicitta, and Wisdom—all of which must be completed to unlock its full power to destroy all demons. They deduce that Yi Mei intends to activate Phurba through Hu Zi's body, suspecting that the ten-thousand-year demonic tail within him is the crucial element for its final activation. To thwart Yi Mei's mysterious plan, they resolve to disrupt her scheme by attempting to remove Phurba.
However, they acknowledge the immense risk, as Phurba has already reached its second stage and is deeply integrated with Hu Zi's spirit essences' blood vessels, making extraction life-threatening. At Hu Zi's insistence, Jiang Xici and the Eldest Master reluctantly proceed with the Phurba extraction, despite the clear dangers. Hu Zi, believing his enhanced abilities and "gifted physique" would protect him, urged them forward, driven by the urgency to prevent a potential disaster Yi Mei might unleash.
As the separation skill commences, Hu Zi struggles, and the Phurba inside him actively resists, causing him to become disoriented and hallucinate. Jiang Xici attempts to halt the procedure, confirming that Phurba has become an integral part of Hu Zi's body, akin to an organ. Just then, Yi Mei appears, revealing she came to prevent the Phurba's removal before its final stage could be activated.
Jiang Xici activates the Spirit Locking Formation, a powerful array designed to drain all powers and trap even immortals. Yi Mei’s devoted companion, Xing Zhi, rushes in to save her, sacrificing his life to shield her from the formation. Overcome with grief, Yi Mei blames Jiang Xici for Xing Zhi's death and defiantly refuses to disclose any information.
Hu Zi, recalling his earlier encounter with Yi Mei in a virtual world where she showed him a vision of a broken formation, deduces that her ultimate plan involves using the Netherworld Sea to submerge all living beings. Recognizing Yi Mei's cunning, Jiang Xici dispatches the Second Master to order the Chief Commander to immediately return to Fulong Capital to guard the formations, even if it means defying an imperial edict.
Qi Xiaoxuan is tasked with strictly guarding the imprisoned Yi Mei. Despite these measures, Qi Yanran, having stolen the Space-splitting Blade, successfully breaks the Spirit Locking Formation and frees Yi Mei. Exhausted, Wang Yuqian is encouraged by Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong to rest. Upon returning to the bamboo house, he discovers a bowl of warm osmanthus porridge. After drinking it, he awakens to find Xiao Yunzi.
Initially suspicious of Xiao Yunzi's constant presence and unexpected gesture, Wang Yuqian confronts him. Xiao Yunzi reveals he is a guard from Qianyu State, dispatched by the King to ensure Wang Yuqian's safety. Wang Yuqian expresses his long-standing frustration with his royal upbringing, feeling like a "useless man" confined to the palace and denied martial arts training.
Xiao Yunzi explains that his actions, including stopping Wang Yuqian during the exam, were for his protection, acknowledging Wang Yuqian's current lack of combat skills against sorcerers. He also conveys the King's desire for Wang Yuqian's swift return to Qianyu State, citing the unrest in Fulong Capital, a suggestion Wang Yuqian firmly rejects, unwilling to abandon his newly found friends for a restrictive life. It is revealed that the porridge was personally picked by the King.
Meanwhile, Qi Yanran guides Yi Mei past a formation set by Jiang Xici and her father into a secret room, where Yi Mei takes the Spirit Mirror containing Yan's primordial spirit. Yi Mei then mentions that she was the one who brought back the Qi family's first child with twin primordial spirits many years ago. Jiang Xici arrives moments too late, realizing the mirror is gone.
She implores Qi Xiaoxuan to recover the Spirit Mirror, stressing the dire consequences if he fails. In a separate conversation, Hu Zi, Zhao Xintong, and Wang Yuqian discuss Yi Mei's mysterious escape and impending next move, speculating on her whereabouts. Hu Zi recalls Yi Mei's promise to reveal his mother's location if he helped activate the Phurba. Zhao Xintong then suggests that the seemingly ruined Yanluo Hall, being their former conspiracy ground, might still harbor undisclosed secrets.
The sorcerer army conducts a widespread search for Yi Mei across the city and beyond, but she remains elusive. Meanwhile, Qi Xiaoxuan spots Yi Mei and follows her to a mountain, where he is lured into a courtyard at Yuyang Mountain and trapped by a collection of specialized puppets. Yi Mei appears and taunts him, revealing that these puppets, much like herself, were painstakingly created 500 years ago. Qi Xiaoxuan demands to know her motives for stealing his Spirit Mirror.
Yi Mei responds with philosophical riddles about life and death. Simultaneously, the Commander-in-Chief of Tiangang Hall reports Yi Mei's location to Jiang Xici. Jiang Xici, however, expresses suspicion, questioning his ability to find such an elusive target and implicating him in Yi Mei's escape and the theft of Qi Xiaoxuan's Spirit Mirror, implying he might be an "internal mole." The Commander-in-Chief, maintaining his innocence, warns her that Qi Xiaoxuan is in imminent danger.
This news immediately alarms Jiang Xici, prompting Qi Yanran to sarcastically note that only Qi Xiaoxuan's peril truly captures Jiang Xici's attention. Upon learning Yi Mei's location is a courtyard on Yuyang Mountain in the capital's northwest, Jiang Xici instructs Qi Yanran to inform the Second Master to lead a team there while she and Qi Yanran rush to the location, fearing for Qi Xiaoxuan's life. As they depart, Qi Yanran makes a chilling, sarcastic remark about collecting Qi Xiaoxuan's "silly brother's corpse," highlighting her true intentions.
Episode 19 Recap
Jiang Xici, the First Master, confronted Yi Mei in the Yuyang Mountain courtyard, immediately questioning her about stealing Xiaoxuan's Spirit Mirror. Yi Mei admitted to taking it for her own purposes and mentioned that she was the creator of the Spirit Locking Ritual and Spirit Mirror 500 years ago, questioning why her plan was delayed by the Qi family’s interference. As Yi Mei refused to explain further, Jiang Xici and Yi Mei quickly began to fight.
A prior conversation between Qi Yanran and Wu Lidan was then revealed: Qi Yanran explained her collaboration with Yi Mei was merely a ruse to claim credit for Yi Mei’s capture. She outlined a plan for Wu Lidan to ambush Yi Mei and First Master, then for her and Wu Lidan to team up and take Yi Mei down after the two had weakened each other.
Wu Lidan expressed concern for First Master, but Qi Yanran emphasized the necessity of a decisive approach to achieve great things. Despite this ambush plan, Qi Yanran joined the battle alongside her grandmother, Jiang Xici, with Wu Lidan also fighting on their side, leading to Yi Mei facing all three. The battle erupted. Yi Mei mocked their efforts, scoffing at their perceived weakness. Qi Yanran, despite her complicated feelings, expressed her deep disdain for Yi Mei.
As the fight intensified, First Master Jiang Xici was gravely wounded and urged Qi Yanran to inform the Three Main Halls. Qi Yanran, wanting to stay and fight, delegated this crucial task to Wu Lidan, telling him to go while she remained. Shortly after, First Master fell off a cliff, her fate uncertain. Yi Mei then targeted Qi Yanran, declaring her hatred for two-faced traitors and attempting to kill her.
Just as Qi Yanran faced defeat, the Second Master of Disha Hall arrived with reinforcements. Seeing this, Yi Mei unleashed a multitude of demons towards Fulong City before vanishing. The Second Master led a search down the cliff, discovering only a few drops of blood and a hairpin, leaving First Master's survival unknown.
Sixty years prior, a weary guard named Zhi Xie, frustrated by his grueling shifts at the Legendary Sea and his superior's corrupt demands, stumbled and fell into the sea. He was rescued by a mysterious figure who introduced himself as Wolf. Zhi Xie offered Wolf some mushroom-cabbage buns, his mother's specialty. Wolf claimed to have swum across the Legendary Sea, a feat Zhi Xie found impossible due to its destructive fires.
Wolf described the other side as desolate and expressed his desire to become "the best," free from bullying. He then revealed his true identity as the Wolf Demon King from Peak Valley and offered to help Zhi Xie achieve his ambition. Wolf then deliberately caused a breach in the Legendary Sea's formation, creating an opportunity for Zhi Xie to heroically warn and evacuate twelve nearby villages, saving thousands of lives.
Zhi Xie was lauded as a hero and an exemplary Royal Sorcerer, earning him a permanent position in the capital, Fulong City, where he served in Yanluo Hall. Wolf later visited Zhi Xie, who boasted about his newfound influence. Wolf discovered that Zhi Xie had imprisoned the former general who once bullied him at the Legendary Sea, even though the general had diligently protected the formation during the crisis.
Zhi Xie dismissed this, asserting that the general was simply fulfilling his duty and deserved to experience what it felt like to be bullied. News of a wolf demon appearing in the capital and preying on other demons quickly spread, even reaching the Tiangang Hall. Speculation about the demon's connection to Yanluo Hall arose after it was seen nearby. Zhi Xie, feigning camaraderie, shared a meal with Wolf and offered him aged Shaoxing wine.
During their conversation, Wolf revealed he knew Zhi Xie had poisoned the wine, stating that Tiangang Hall's investigation into Wolf would soon expose Zhi Xie's own involvement, threatening his hard-earned status. Zhi Xie, desperate not to lose everything he had achieved, had plotted to kill Wolf. Wolf, however, revealed that the poison and wounds were ineffective against him due to centuries of intense cultivation in the Legendary Sea.
He stated that he had repaid Zhi Xie's initial kindness but expressed profound disappointment in humans due to Zhi Xie's betrayal. Declaring their connection severed, Wolf killed the real Zhi Xie and assumed his identity. In the collapsed underground secret room of Yanluo Hall, Wang Yuqian, Hu Zi, and another companion investigated.
Hu Zi spotted tiger claw marks on a stone pillar, wondering if his mother had left them, and identified a nearby hole as a possible escape route for demons. Before they could investigate further, an alarm blared from outside. Fulong City was suddenly overwhelmed by demons.
Hu Zi spotted Xiaoxuan, his former disciple, and pursued him, accusing him of orchestrating the chaos, including the murder of sorcerers, the taming of demons, and a plot to erode public trust in the Three Main Halls. Xiaoxuan, seemingly controlled by Red Flame, admitted to these actions. Red Flame, speaking through Xiaoxuan, stated that their shared destiny had ended and that while he would not harm Hu Zi directly, he could not allow him to endanger the world.
Red Flame then destroyed the head of the Legendary Ship and the Qi family's Spirit Mirror, which held Qian's primordial spirit, shattering it completely. Hu Zi, realizing the person was not Qian but Xiaoxuan controlled by Red Flame, desperately tried to salvage the remnants of the Spirit Mirror, but Wang Yuqian pulled him to safety from the encroaching flames.
Red Flame further taunted Hu Zi, indicating that Xiaoxuan's body had been a "hell" trapping Red Flame for eight years, and now there would only be one Xiaoxuan in the world. With demons outnumbering humans in Fulong City, Zhao Xintong instructed the Jinhua sisters trio to escort civilians to the Tiangang Hall, which was guarded by sorcerers. Despite Xiao Yunzi's attempts to deter him, Wang Yuqian insisted on rescuing people, prioritizing the safety of Fulong citizens.
He ordered those under his command to protect the populace. Outside the Legendary Sea formation, some sorcerers desperately struggled to maintain the protective barrier against the Demon King, while others were entangled in fierce battles with the encroaching demons. The Chief Commander rallied his sorcerers to defend the Legendary Sea formation at all costs against the Demon King's onslaught.
Despite the Chief Commander's warnings that they were outmatched, Tie Lie and Miao Yin volunteered to confront the Demon King, believing that dying in battle was a warrior's highest honor. Miao Yin supported Tie Lie with her string music, but they were ultimately defeated and killed by the Demon King, who was Zhi Xie in Wolf's form. Meanwhile, the Council of Elders, led by Chen Jinian, attempted to flee the devastated capital.
Trapped, they sought refuge in Tiangang Hall, but Chen Jinian ordered the resident sorcerers to deny entry to all others, citing higher orders and the need to secure the hall. Zilu then confronted Zhi Xie, who was still possessed by Wolf. Zhi Xie (Wolf) taunted humans for their inherent weakness and for trapping demons in Peak Valley, claiming their current suffering was a just consequence. Zilu, however, countered that humanity was full of individuals who bravely confronted their weaknesses.
Using the bone whip his former master, Zhi Xie, had once given him—a weapon from their very first demon hunt—Zilu bound himself and Zhi Xie (Wolf) together. Zilu declared his resolve to prevent Zhi Xie from destroying the capital, reminding him of the lessons about fighting to the last moment. With his final ounce of spiritual energy, Zilu pulled them both into the depths of the Legendary Sea.
At the Tiangang Hall, Zhao Xintong vehemently argued against the elders' decision to bar entry, highlighting the plight of the wounded, women, children, and elderly civilians. She passionately asserted that the true duty of the Royal Sorcerers was to protect the people, not just the physical structure of the hall.
With the support of the grateful civilians they had saved, Zhao Xintong and others committed to bearing any consequences, ultimately persuading the guards to open the gates and allow the refugees inside. Elsewhere in the ravaged city, Qi Yanran returned to witness countless civilian casualties, her face contorted with rage as she screamed Yi Mei's name.
Episode 20 Recap
Wu Lidan found himself in a dire situation, exhausted after all his subordinates had perished. He was confronted by a demon he had personally imprisoned in the Demon Burning Pagoda, who bore a deep grudge and threatened to kill him in retaliation for past actions. The demon boasted about absorbing sorcerers' spirit essences to gain power. Just as the demon was about to strike, Zhao Xintong appeared and swiftly ended its life, saving Wu Lidan.
Hu Zi once again encountered Qi Xiaoxuan, who was possessed by Yan. Hu Zi angrily demanded that Qi Xiaoxuan be returned, but Yan only mocked his loyalty to Qian. When Hu Zi praised Qian's virtues, Yan challenged him to denounce Qian as a hypocritical villain. Hu Zi complied, only for Yan to attack him, declaring his intention to kill Hu Zi.
Hu Zi fell into a virtual world where he witnessed the deaths of Zhao Xintong and Wang Yuqian, and was horrified to see Qi Xiaoxuan as their killer. When Hu Zi demanded an explanation, Qi Xiaoxuan accused him of being the true demon and the root of all calamity, claiming Hu Zi himself was responsible for their deaths. Overwhelmed by despair but still resisting the manipulation, Hu Zi collapsed but then struck back at the illusionary Qi Xiaoxuan.
After eliminating the figure of Qi Xiaoxuan in the virtual world, Hu Zi was shattered to discover he had attacked Qian's primordial spirit. Overcome by grief and despair, he lashed out, stabbing his own demonic tail with the Phurba. This act caused him to abruptly awaken in reality, where he saw Qi Xiaoxuan walking away. Enraged and filled with a desire to kill, Hu Zi summoned the Phurba and launched himself towards Qi Xiaoxuan.
The power of the Phurba overwhelmed Qi Xiaoxuan, who was forced to vomit blood and told Hu Zi that if he wanted to find Yan, he should go to the Black Water Pool to collect Yan's body. As Hu Zi prepared to deliver a fatal blow, Yi Mei suddenly materialized behind him, seizing the activated Phurba. She declared that with the Phurba fully activated, Hu Zi had served his purpose and was no longer of any use to her.
With a single powerful strike, she sent Hu Zi flying onto the rafters, leaving him severely injured. As Yi Mei departed, taking Qi Xiaoxuan with her, Hu Zi fell from the rafters. However, his fall was cushioned by the sudden appearance of the Ten-Thousand-Year Tiger Demon, his mother, who manifested in her true form to break his impact.
Cheng Jinian seized this opportunity to incite other sorcerers, falsely accusing Hu Zi of colluding with the White Tiger, claiming the White Tiger was responsible for bringing endless calamities five hundred years prior. Wang Yuqian, attempting to protect Hu Zi and his mother, led them to a dilapidated temple for refuge. However, Cheng Jinian then ordered the sorcerers to surround the temple and set it ablaze.
Zhao Xintong arrived and confronted Cheng Jinian, arguing that they should prioritize helping the displaced civilians and dealing with the rampant demons instead of engaging in internal conflict. She reminded them that Hu Zi had been helping people and that the White Tiger had saved Hu Zi from Yi Mei, refuting Cheng Jinian’s accusations. Her impassioned plea resonated with many, and they decided to assist the suffering populace. Seeing his support wane, Cheng Jinian reluctantly retreated.
Meanwhile, Qi Yanran fiercely confronted Yi Mei, seeking vengeance for her grandmother, but Yi Mei effortlessly overpowered her. Yi Mei then revealed that all answers regarding the Qi Family's centuries-old curse lay beyond the Netherworld Sea, on Peak Valley. With her intentions clear, Yi Mei summoned the Ancient Dragon of Mount Kong, a mythical beast she had cultivated for centuries, and departed with Qi Xiaoxuan.
As they flew, Yi Mei spotted the White Tiger below and, despite acknowledging its loss of divine powers, deemed it useful and captured it into a bottle. Following these harrowing events, Hu Zi was found in a deep coma, his spirit seemingly shattered by the recent ordeal and the renewed separation from his mother. The Fulong Capital bore the scars of widespread death and destruction.
Though the demons had temporarily retreated, the surviving populace was left to mourn countless losses and nurse their wounds. In the Tiangang Hall, elders convened to address the catastrophic situation. Reports confirmed that the Chief Commanding Master Qi Zilu had perished alongside the bandit leader Zhi Xie in the Netherworld Sea, and Jiang Xici, Chief of the Disha Hall, was murdered by Qi Yanran and Yi Mei.
Additionally, the commanders of the Red and Blue Camps, Tie Lie and Miao Yin, had sacrificed their lives, while Qi Xiaoxuan, now controlled by Yan, had defected, fleeing with Yi Mei on the Ancient Dragon. The elders were bewildered by the betrayal of such esteemed figures and distressed by the complete decimation of the Three Main Halls' elite forces.
Faced with the immediate crisis of the four camps and 12 teams being leaderless, they resolved to inform the Emperor and urgently devise a plan to restore order. To fill the critical leadership void, the Elder Council convened a meeting, summoning numerous Royal Sorcerers to the Tiangang Hall.
They announced the appointment of new camp commanders: Wu Lidan was named Commander of the Black Camp, the Jinhua sisters trio were jointly appointed as Commanders of the Blue Camp, Xiao Yunzi became Commander of the Red Camp, and Chang Daqiang was assigned Commander of the White Camp.
Despite Zhao Xintong's significant contributions and the praise she received for her bravery in Fulong City, she was merely presented with a reward of silver and silk, without being assigned any official position or real authority. The Elder Council then declared a devastating loss: Chief Commanding Master Qi Zilu had heroically died stemming the Netherworld Sea, and the Chief Steward was also killed by Yi Mei.
They announced a new acting commander-in-chief was needed, praising Cheng Jinian for his bravery in defending the Tiangang Hall and appointed him to the position. However, this decision was met with immediate and strong opposition from the newly appointed camp commanders. They deemed Cheng Jinian unqualified. Although Wu Lidan abstained from the vote, the other commanders firmly rejected Cheng Jinian's appointment.
Wang Yuqian, citing his extensive knowledge of the Fulong Law, stated that if the Chief Commanding Master's position was vacant, the commander-in-chief should be recommended by the four camp commanders. Faced with such unanimous objection, the elders conceded, reluctantly appointing Zhao Xintong as the temporary acting commander-in-chief, with the caveat that her suitability would be re-evaluated later.
Following her appointment, Zhao Xintong was approached by Wu Lidan, who thanked her for not opposing his abstention from the vote regarding Cheng Jinian's appointment. Zhao Xintong clarified that her actions were solely based on her principles, not a favor, and sternly warned Wu Lidan that if he ever committed unlawful acts, she would personally eliminate him. Cheng Jinian's father, Cheng Shu, and Uncle Zhou secretly advised Cheng Jinian, who was furious about Zhao Xintong's temporary promotion.
They suggested that Zhao Xintong, by taking the leading role, would become an easy target and pave the way for Cheng Jinian's eventual ascension. Meanwhile, Zhao Xintong, determined to resolve the crisis at its root, proposed a bold plan to the elders: to gather all Royal Sorcerers within seven days and lead them across the Netherworld Sea to Peak Valley to capture Yi Mei.
She explained that Yi Mei's actions and the destruction of the Red Pearl Formation had already led to the complete inundation of the low-lying State of Julun and severe damage to the high-terrain Qianyu State, warning that the entire continent would eventually be submerged if the source of the problem was not addressed. However, the elders strongly disagreed with her plan, viewing it as too risky and premature.
They argued that their immediate priorities should be settling refugees, rebuilding the capital, and repairing the damaged formations in Fulong Bay, rather than embarking on a perilous offensive. Despite their rejection of Zhao Xintong's proposal, the elders remained cautious. Cheng Jinian then seized the opportunity to approach them with a "shocking secret."
He falsely accused Hu Zi of being the offspring of the Ten-Thousand-Year Tiger Demon and alleged that Hu Zi had secretly learned martial arts from Yi Mei, implying he was complicit in the chaos that had engulfed Fulong City and was colluding with Yi Mei. Convinced by Cheng Jinian's fabricated claims, the Elder Council immediately ordered him to lead sorcerers to arrest Hu Zi and imprison him.
Episode 21 Recap
Hu Zi woke from his unconscious state to find Cheng Jinian and his guards forcibly arresting him, accusing him of rebellion and massacring the capital's citizens. Meanwhile, Commander-in-Chief Zhao Xintong was denied entry to the prison to see Hu Zi. As she attempted to force her way in, Wang Yuqian intervened, explaining that the Elder Council had explicitly forbidden visitors, especially her, fearing her close relationship with Hu Zi would lead to impropriety and disgrace the Royal Sorcerers.
Wang Yuqian revealed that the Council saw Zhao Xintong's appointment as commander-in-chief as a direct affront, and they were deliberately setting a trap, hoping she would make a mistake. Breaking into the prison now would not only fail to rescue Hu Zi but also jeopardize their larger plan to capture Yi Mei. Hu Zi, though imprisoned, was safe for the moment, and a different strategy was needed to free him.
In his prison cell, Hu Zi was determined not to succumb to despair. He knew he needed to escape to rescue his mother, White Tiger, from Qianyu and Peak Valley. He lamented his lack of knowledge, wishing he had studied more. Meanwhile, the Elder Council deliberated on Hu Zi's fate, facing public outrage over their perceived failure to protect the city. Some argued for his immediate execution, citing the Chief Commander's stance that all demons must die.
Cheng Shu, son of one of the elders, suggested keeping Hu Zi imprisoned indefinitely, hoping to lure his accomplices into a trap for a mass arrest. However, the elders, wanting to eliminate future threats, ultimately decided against prolonged imprisonment. Shortly after, an assassin from the Elder Council's guards attempted to strangle Hu Zi in his cell. This attack triggered a protective mechanism within Hu Zi, causing him to exhibit overwhelming power, nearly killing his assailant.
Zhao Xintong and Wang Yuqian, having arrived at the prison, found Hu Zi in a trance-like state, his enhanced power making him mistake them for enemies. Zhao Xintong's persistent calls, however, eventually broke through his disorientation, restoring his clarity. The assassin quickly returned to Tiangang Hall to report his failed attempt to the elders, claiming Hu Zi became "possessed" and overwhelmingly powerful. Moments later, Zhao Xintong and Wang Yuqian arrived with Hu Zi, directly confronting the elders.
Zhao Xintong accused the Council of using private force, presenting the rope the guard used to try and kill Hu Zi. Wang Yuqian, having observed that the assassin's boots matched those of the Elder Council's guards, further questioned why all the prison guards had withdrawn when they arrived, suggesting a pre-arranged plot. When the elders demanded proof, the assassin, visibly terrified by Hu Zi's mere presence, confessed to attempting murder.
Elder Cheng Shu immediately distanced the Council from the assassin's actions, calling it a personal vendetta, then turned to reiterate Hu Zi's alleged crimes of conspiracy. Zhao Xintong fiercely defended Hu Zi, highlighting his past heroic deeds in Ruyun Village, Babao Town, and the capital, asking why he would save people if he harbored ill intent.
She dramatically declared that if the Council continued to listen to rumors and harm the loyal, she would not accept her position as acting commander-in-chief. Hu Zi then spoke, acknowledging his lineage as the son of a tiger demon, but firmly stating that he was raised among humans in Ruyun Village and had never harmed anyone.
Despite an elder's skepticism about his future intentions, a multitude of sorcerers from Yanluo Hall, Disha Hall, and Tiangang Hall, whom Hu Zi had previously aided, flooded the hall to vouch for his character and plead for his release. Faced with such overwhelming public support, the Elder Council relented, agreeing to release Hu Zi, though one elder privately expressed concern about "storing up trouble for the future" by setting him free.
After his release, Hu Zi thanked the sorcerers who had come to his aid. Outside the hall, Xiao Yunzi approached Wang Yuqian, urging him to return to Qianyu State, citing the king's concern over his involvement in Fulong's chaos. Wang Yuqian, secretly a Prince, reiterated his need to stay, stating Hu Zi's unstable condition and nearly transforming.
Hu Zi, deeply troubled by his momentary loss of control and the demonic blood flowing within him, asked Zhao Xintong to promise to kill him if he ever fully succumbed and harmed innocent people. Haunted by a voice he recalled, seemingly from Yan, telling him to retrieve Qi Xiaoxuan's body from the Black Water Pool, Hu Zi immediately set off. Meanwhile, Qi Yanran awoke, having been saved by a mysterious woman.
She learned from her rescuer that Yi Mei had escaped, splitting open the Netherworld Sea and heading towards Peak Valley. Despite her injuries, Qi Yanran immediately declared her intention to return to the Qi Mansion. Arriving at the Black Water Pool, Hu Zi discovered a wooden puppet that surprisingly spoke, revealing itself to be Qi Xiaoxuan. His primordial spirit had been sealed within it by Yi Mei.
Qi Xiaoxuan explained the "choose between two" destiny of the Qi Sect, where one sibling was destined to disappear, and this time it was his turn. Hu Zi refused to accept this, declaring there was still hope and he would help Xiaoxuan break his fate with Yan. Hu Zi then brought the puppet back to the bamboo house, where Zhao Xintong and Wang Yuqian, though initially startled, quickly accepted the extraordinary truth.
Xiaoxuan, in his new form, inquired about Qi Yanran, his father, and his grandmother, Jiang Xici. Hu Zi's friends revealed that Qi Yanran had defected to Yi Mei's side, and that Xiaoxuan's father and the First Master were recuperating from minor injuries sustained in the recent conflict. However, they deliberately concealed the truth about Jiang Xici's uncertain fate to spare Xiaoxuan distress. Qi Xiaoxuan attempted to control his new puppet body, struggling initially.
He also expressed a sense of responsibility for Yan's current state, believing his choices may have led to their predicament. Wang Yuqian offered to find someone from Qianyu State to teach him telekinesis, encouraging him to start with basic movements. Hu Zi further motivated Xiaoxuan by likening his own journey from a "loser" to Xiaoxuan's current situation, emphasizing that "We're the masters of our own fate."
As Qi Yanran attempted to return to her family's manor, she found it being looted by opportunistic thieves. Servants had fled, and she was quickly discovered and relentlessly pursued by sorcerers, now a notorious fugitive. Cornered and at her wits' end, she was rescued once more by the mysterious woman.
This woman, who was Jiang Xici in a rejuvenated form, confronted Qi Yanran about her betrayal, reminding her that her actions had led to the Qi family's downfall and her current plight. Jiang Xici severely criticized Yanran's arrogance and recklessness, stating that her resentment towards her grandmother and her desperate attempt to prove herself had only brought disaster. She urged Qi Yanran to atone for her mistakes and become the Qi family's last hope.
Later, this rejuvenated Jiang Xici met with Mo Guzi, who confirmed that his Mo family's forbidden medical art had saved her life after her fall, "reversing her meridians and bringing her back to the original state," thereby restoring her youthful appearance. Mo Guzi also admitted this was his first time using the secretly learned forbidden art. This transformation ensured no one would recognize her.
Jiang Xici, now appearing as a young woman, cautioned Mo Guzi against revealing her true identity, especially to Qi Yanran, due to the widespread unrest and many prying eyes. She also mused on the state of affairs in the capital, noting the corruption of the Elder Council and expressing a desire to connect with Zhao Xintong, whom she saw as a promising new leader capable of revitalizing the stagnant power structure.
Episode 22 Recap
At the tombstone erected for Jiang Xici, the First Master of Disha Hall, the Second Master recalls how decades ago, Jiang Xici defied her family to become a Royal Sorcerer in the capital. He, a parentless servant, followed her, willing to endure any hardship. He continues to view her as more than just the First Master; she was the noble lady who vowed to eradicate injustice.
He remembers her teaching him that men should not cry easily, which is why he has never shed tears. He solemnly promises to avenge her death by confronting Yi Mei. Wang Yuqian then proposes a bold plan to construct a long suspension bridge over the Netherworld Sea, connecting Fulong Bay and Peak Valley, to safely transport sorcerers. He claims this method successfully links Qianyu State and Fulong State.
However, the Second Master swiftly dismisses the idea, explaining that the Netherworld Sea's intense flames would incinerate any bridge. He also points out that Wang Yuqian's drawing inaccurately portrays the distance between Fulong Bay and Peak Valley as far shorter than reality. Soon after, Mo Guzi arrives, stating he has recovered from past injuries. He introduces his distant niece, Mo Lingzhi, a skilled practitioner of demon-subduing magic who has extensively studied ancient texts, including those concerning Peak Valley.
Zhao Xintong expresses her admiration for Mo Lingzhi’s vast knowledge. The Second Master observes Mo Lingzhi’s striking resemblance to a young Jiang Xici and subtly inquires if she has any Southern relatives named Jiang. Mo Lingzhi gracefully denies this, clarifying that their surnames are homophones but spelled differently. Zhao Xintong mentions her unsuccessful attempt to persuade the Council of Elders to launch an expedition to Peak Valley.
Mo Lingzhi affirms Zhao Xintong’s initiative, stressing that Yi Mei’s grand scheme necessitates their immediate action to breach the Netherworld Sea and stop her, even with limited sorcerers. She explains that 500 years ago, the sorcerer leader Qi Wuji used the divine Phurba to slay the Demon Emperor, whose blood formed the Netherworld Sea.
Yi Mei, having activated the Phurba, intends to use it to create a path through the sea, so they, too, must retrieve the Phurba from the Netherworld Sea to advance to Peak Valley. Everyone agrees this is the crucial first step. The group proceeds to Fulong Bay, initiating the search for Red Pearl fragments around the Netherworld Sea, hoping to assemble a miniature formation capable of withstanding the sea’s fiery assault and retrieving the Phurba.
The task is recognized as perilous, given the scarcity of complete Red Pearls and the inherent danger of venturing into the Netherworld Sea. In their downtime, Hu Zi patiently helps the puppet, Qian, practice walking, affectionately calling him "Ice Cube." He diligently cleans Qian after a fall, treating him with the same care as a human.
Despite Hu Zi’s unwavering encouragement, Qian feels profound despair, believing himself useless without a dantian, meridians, or true Chi, asserting that without a physical body, his existence is meaningless. His frustration peaks when he spots a snake nearing Hu Zi but is powerless to warn or defend him. Hu Zi carries the dejected puppet back to the inn, where they encounter Mo Lingzhi. Hu Zi defends Qian, asserting he is his friend and was harmed by demons.
He then asks Mo Lingzhi for help, noting her vast knowledge. Mo Lingzhi, after a brief examination, discerns Qian’s primordial spirit is incredibly faint and warns that without a suitable physical vessel, his existence will soon fade. Hu Zi attempts to lift Qian’s spirits by presenting him with new clothes, identical to his old ones, reminding him that despite his current form, he is still Qi Xiaoxuan, a proud descendant of the Qi family and a Royal Sorcerer commander.
However, Qian remains deeply despondent, withdrawing from everyone, including Zhao Xintong and Wang Yuqian, preferring to be left alone. Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong worry about his pervasive negativity, noting that as Qi Xiaoxuan, he is accustomed to leadership and is struggling with his inability to contribute in his puppet body. Hu Zi stresses the urgency of their mission to retrieve Qi Xiaoxuan’s body from Peak Valley, as Mo Lingzhi confirmed his primordial spirit is weakening.
News then reaches Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong that Xiao Yunzi, the commander of the Red Camp, and Wang Yuqian, whom Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong affectionately call "Brick," have departed without a word. Hu Zi defends Wang Yuqian, convinced he would not abandon them, while Zhao Xintong speculates he might have a compelling, unspoken reason for his sudden departure. They agree that finding the Phurba remains their immediate priority.
Their spirits lift when Wang Yuqian and Xiao Yunzi unexpectedly return, bearing seven high-quality Red Pearls—a miraculous discovery given the general scarcity of fragments. Wang Yuqian then reveals his true identity: he is the Prince of Qianyu State.
He clarifies that he had written to his father, who dispatched the Red Pearls to the border, and he and Xiao Yunzi, who is actually Guard Yun sent by the King to protect him, had gone to retrieve them, not to desert their allies. The group expresses their gratitude for Qianyu State's crucial assistance, lightheartedly warning Wang Yuqian against any future unannounced departures.
The urgency of their mission intensifies as Mo Lingzhi highlights that Qian’s puppet body has limited time, prompting Mo Guzi to begin constructing the Red Pearl formation with the Thousand Thread. Qian, still withdrawn, overhears a conversation among the group discussing the tragic fall of the Qi Sect: Jiang Xici, the First Master, was killed by Yi Mei, and Qi Zilu, the Chief Commander, along with Zhi Xie, perished in the Netherworld Sea.
Overwhelmed by this devastating news, Qian cries out in disbelief, demanding to know if his father and grandmother are truly gone. Mo Guzi presents the completed micro formation, composed of the seven Red Pearls. He explains that entering it will protect one from the Netherworld Sea’s flames, but the formation’s integrity can only be maintained for approximately an hour. Failure to exit within this timeframe will cause the formation to shrink and collapse, leaving the person vulnerable.
Zhao Xintong expresses deep concern over the brief duration and asks if it can be extended, but Mo Guzi confirms it is the absolute limit. Both Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong volunteer to enter the Netherworld Sea to retrieve the Phurba. Hu Zi asserts his agility and small stature make him the ideal candidate for controlling the miniature formation, which he practices with, despite its erratic movements.
Meanwhile, at Jiang Xici’s tomb, Qi Yanran confronts the headstone with bitter words, accusing Jiang Xici of dying too easily, despite her legendary power. She recalls Jiang Xici’s preference for Fei and the two blades Jiang Xici had gifted them.
Qi Yanran laments Jiang Xici’s disapproval of her "domineering" nature and her own relentless efforts to defy Jiang Xici’s wishes, yet rising through the ranks to become Commander-in-Chief, all without ever receiving a word of praise, feeling overshadowed by Qi Xiaoxuan. She states her life, saved by Jiang Xici, will be a debt she repays. The Second Master appears, confirming that Jiang Xici’s body was never found, suggesting it may have been consumed by demons or destroyed.
Qi Yanran expresses disbelief, speculating that Jiang Xici might still be alive and challenging her to appear. The Second Master urges her to be calm, stating that if Jiang Xici were alive, she would have returned to Disha Hall. He tells her that she took a wrong step that led to the downfall of the Qi Sect and Jiang Xici’s death.
Despite the capital’s hunt for Qi Yanran, the Second Master refuses to arrest her, acknowledging her as the last remaining bloodline of the Qi family. He urges her to leave the capital, but Qi Yanran defiantly refuses, declaring she has her own path to follow. The Second Master arrives to provide support for the perilous mission. As Hu Zi prepares, exhausted from practicing with the formation, they suddenly discover the Red Pearl formation is gone, along with Qi Xiaoxuan.
A frantic search confirms their fears: Qi Xiaoxuan, in his puppet form, has taken the formation and bravely entered the Netherworld Sea alone. Rushing to the Netherworld Sea, they witness the Phurba surface, but Qi Xiaoxuan remains submerged. Realizing Qi Xiaoxuan sacrificed himself to retrieve the Phurba, Hu Zi is consumed by a desperate urgency.
Despite Zhao Xintong's pleas not to commit suicide by entering the now almost destroyed formation, Hu Zi, unwavering in his resolve to save his friend, plunges into the fiery depths of the Netherworld Sea. Moments later, he emerges, clutching Qi Xiaoxuan’s barely discernible primordial spirit. Mo Lingzhi immediately intervenes, temporarily stabilizing Qi Xiaoxuan’s precarious primordial spirit. She warns that his puppet body is now useless, and without a suitable new vessel, his spirit will dissipate.
Qi Xiaoxuan, overcome with despair, questions why Hu Zi risked his life for him, believing himself utterly useless and only wanting to perform one final act of contribution. Hu Zi vehemently rejects his self-pity, reminding Qi Xiaoxuan that they never gave up on finding his body and that he has no right to quit.
Qi Xiaoxuan admits he believed he was a burden, especially after the loss of his father and grandmother, and feared his limited time would only hinder them. At this crucial moment, Mo Guzi tearfully reveals the stunning truth: Mo Lingzhi is none other than Jiang Xici, Qi Xiaoxuan’s grandmother. He explains that after Yi Mei injured her, he used a forbidden Mo family technique to revive her, though it reversed her meridians, causing her to de-age to eighteen years old.
A stunned Qi Xiaoxuan now understands Mo Lingzhi’s striking resemblance to his younger grandmother. With Jiang Xici herself now present and alive, everyone, including Jiang Xici, rallies around Qi Xiaoxuan, urging him to hold onto hope. They assure him that if Jiang Xici could be saved, anything is possible, promising to find him a new body and reminding him of their shared promise to visit Zuihua House. Jiang Xici sternly tells her grandson that she saved his life, and he must live. Despite the renewed hope, Qi Xiaoxuan’s primordial spirit continues to weaken.
Episode 23 Recap
Xiaoxuan's primordial spirit was rapidly dissipating, and the assembled group watched helplessly as it faded. Suddenly, Eldest Master burst in, using spirit essence given to him by Qi Wuji to protect Xiaoxuan's primordial spirit. Eldest Master explained that five hundred years ago, his master, Qi Wuji, infused this power into both him and Yi Mei, and recently, Yi Mei had transferred it from her body to his.
Eldest Master then revealed a blue Soul Lamp on Xiaoxuan's chest, which was the location of his primordial spirit. This method, Eldest Master warned, could only sustain Xiaoxuan for forty-nine days. After that period, the Soul Lamp would extinguish, and if Xiaoxuan's primordial spirit had not returned to his physical body by then, it would completely dissipate and cease to exist forever.
Later, Jiang Xici expressed her doubts to Eldest Master, questioning if he had been tricked by Yi Mei again. Eldest Master vehemently denied it, stating that the golden spirit essence was indeed Qi Wuji's, an authentic transfer. He explained that he had been captured by Yan after Yan took over Xiaoxuan's body. When Eldest Master refused to join their plans, Yan grew furious and abandoned him in a valley after leaving on a dragon.
Eldest Master then traveled back to the capital, only learning about the recent events at the Qi Mansion. Upon hearing that they were recovering the Phurba from Fulong Bay, he rushed over. Eldest Master confessed that he only knew Yi Mei harbored a deep obsession with her master, Ye Kongming, not returning to the mainland. He had no idea what she was plotting or why she went to Peak Valley, noting she had been conspiring for five centuries.
He recalled their departure from the island, where Yi Mei boarded the ship first with the child of Qi Wuji and Ye Kongming, while Qi Wuji and Ye Kongming, protecting everyone, did not successfully board the ship, throwing Eldest Master onto the ship at the last moment. He further explained that Yi Mei was originally Ye Kongming's doll, only taking human form in Peak Valley, and had no known external grievances or secrets.
Despite Yi Mei's complex motives, Eldest Master urged them to focus on reactivating the Phurba. The next morning, Hu Zi, Yuqian, and Ice Cube discovered Xiaoxuan was missing from his room and worried about him. They soon found him practicing sword skills outside. Xiaoxuan explained he had gone out alone to train, not wanting to disturb them. He acknowledged that while he was more comfortable than when he was a puppet, this body was still temporary.
He described his time as a puppet as depressing and helpless, feeling trapped and unable to act despite seeing and hearing the outside world. He expressed his gratitude for their support, affirming his commitment to living each day well for their sake, and asked them to join him in overcoming future challenges. Everyone was relieved to see Xiaoxuan recover, but he reminded them to keep the temporary nature of his body a secret.
Meanwhile, First Master, who was still unable to appear publicly, tasked Second Master with continuing to manage Disha Hall affairs. First Master and Second Master then summoned Zhao Xintong, informing her that the Emperor had decreed that the Three Main Halls nominate a new Chief Commanding Master. They both strongly suggested she contend for the position.
While acknowledging her capabilities and her past efforts in protecting the people and Tiangang Hall during the chaos, they emphasized the critical importance of the role. First Master explained that only the Chief Commanding Master could command armies and forge alliances with other states like Qianyu and Julun to confront their enemies. He stressed that if the Elder Council, who were power-hungry, seized the position, their plans would be thwarted. Convinced by the strategic necessity, Zhao Xintong agreed to try.
Separately, Cheng Shu brought his son, Cheng Jinian, to Yangming Hall. Cheng Shu informed Cheng Jinian that he and the other Elders had decided to nominate him for Chief Commanding Master. Cheng Jinian, however, expressed concern about Zhao Xintong's rising popularity among Royal Sorcerers. Cheng Shu advised him to suppress her influence before it grew too strong.
Meanwhile, Eldest Master observed Xiaoxuan's rapid recovery and movements, noting that they were beyond what a normal person could easily achieve, attributing it to his ancestor's divine power. However, he warned Xiaoxuan that excessively using his temporary body would accelerate the dissipation of his primordial spirit. Eldest Master promised to teach him mental methods to stabilize his primordial spirit, urging him not to be too hasty, and added that their journey to Peak Valley would need to be expedited.
First Master called for Hu Zi, explaining that despite various attempts, the Phurba remained inert. He asked Hu Zi to try activating it again, noting that Hu Zi no longer possessed the demonic tail but had previously reached the three levels of Phurba techniques. Hu Zi's attempt, however, also failed, confirming that the Phurba's spiritual power was completely drained. First Master expressed his confusion as to why Yi Mei would leave it there.
In Peak Valley, Yi Mei and Yan finally arrived. Yi Mei acknowledged that it had been five hundred years since she was last there. They soon encountered White Demons, whose weakness, Yi Mei revealed, lay in their hearing. They fought their way through, as Yi Mei stated that Peak Valley was the birthplace of demons and the key to the secret of Twin Primordial Spirits.
During their fight, a black-clad figure, identical in appearance to Moguzi but without albinism, emerged from behind the white demons. Back at the capital, First Master lamented the Phurba's unresponsiveness, noting that even Yi Mei had failed to activate it for five centuries until Hu Zi, with his immense demonic energy, successfully did so. He worried that no one else on the continent could serve as a suitable vessel, emphasizing that Xiaoxuan was running out of time.
Jiang Xici tried to activate the Phurba with captured demons but failed to awaken it. Therefore, First Master instructed Jiang Xici and Second Master to search for other secret methods in the Collection Pavilion. Meanwhile, Zhao Xintong and Xiao Yunzi continued to lead demon hunting patrols in the surrounding areas, questioning whether ordinary demons would be useful for activating the Phurba, although clearing them was deemed necessary. During a demon hunting patrol, Xiao Yunzi and Zhao Xintong encountered an ambush.
Xiao Yunzi reported that they were hit by poisoned needles, and when he regained consciousness, Zhao Xintong was gone. The attackers were masked, and their faces were unseen. Yuqian was instructed to care for the injured while Hu Zi and Xiao Yunzi set off to find Zhao Xintong. At the Tiangang Hall, the Elder Council convened a meeting of the camp commanders to discuss the nomination of the Chief Commanding Master.
When Xiao Yunzi was noted as absent, they proceeded without him, announcing their unanimous decision to nominate Cheng Jinian, citing his public efforts in providing relief to refugees. However, several camp commanders, including Wu Lidan, strongly disagreed, arguing that Cheng Jinian was merely campaigning for himself. They pointed out that Zhao Xintong had done much for the capital during the war and had been acting commander-in-chief, recommending her instead.
Debates arose, with some elders questioning a woman's capability to lead the state's sorcerer armies. Wu Lidan intervened, emphasizing that Zhao Xintong held the Commander-in-Chief Dragon Token, making her the legitimate acting commander-in-chief, and that her opinion should be consulted. After much dispute, the Elder Council, aware that Eunuch Liu from Di City was awaiting their decision, reluctantly agreed to wait until Shen Shi (3-5 PM).
If Zhao Xintong could return to the Tiangang Hall by then, they would reconsider the nomination. Cheng Jinian presented a recommendation letter, purportedly signed by the common people, to the Elders. He had obtained these signatures by forcing people to provide fingerprints after receiving his aid. The Elders were eager to use this to quickly confirm Cheng Jinian's appointment, suggesting they directly report to the Emperor without waiting for Zhao Xintong.
Wu Lidan, however, reminded them of their agreement to wait for Zhao Xintong until Shen Shi, pointing out that it was not yet time. The Elders reluctantly agreed to wait. Meanwhile, Hu Zi and Xiaoxuan, after finding evidence that the ambush was orchestrated by the Elder Council, deduced that Zhao Xintong was likely held by Cheng Jinian's people. They infiltrated a location filled with guards and successfully rescued Zhao Xintong.
Xiaoxuan instructed Hu Zi to take Zhao Xintong to the Tiangang Hall but chose not to accompany them himself, reasoning that his appearance with Yan and Yi Mei in the past would cause undue complications. At the Tiangang Hall, the Elders were growing impatient as Shen Shi approached. Wu Lidan continued to stall them, maintaining that it was not yet the appointed time. Just as the Elders were about to force the announcement of Cheng Jinian, Eunuch Liu arrived.
He revealed that Zhao Xintong had already informed him of all the Elder Council's illicit activities, including their scheme to harm the acting commander-in-chief and usurp the position of Chief Commanding Master. He presented witnesses who, under Hu Zi's interrogation, had confessed. Cheng Shu attempted to take full responsibility to protect his son, Cheng Jinian, but Eunuch Liu declared that all involved would face severe consequences, including the punishment of their entire families.
Eunuch Liu then formally congratulated Zhao Xintong on her promotion to Chief Commanding Master, marking her as the first woman to hold the position in a hundred years. As they departed, Hu Zi warned Cheng Jinian of retribution if Zhao Xintong had been harmed. Zhao Xintong, overwhelmed by the new responsibility, expressed her uncertainties, but her friends reassured her, promising to be her unwavering support in all future endeavors.
Episode 24 Recap
Zhao Xintong was appointed the new Chief Commanding Master of Fulong State, a decision met with well-deserved approval from her companions. On a rare occasion, Zhao Xintong, Hu Zi, Qi Xiaoxuan, and Wang Yuqian sat together, enjoying the serene landscape and discussing their aspirations for a peaceful future, free from conflict between humans and demons. Hu Zi dreamed of opening a restaurant to attract unique individuals from all over the world and offer all kinds of delicacies.
Wang Yuqian, tired of his royal upbringing, wished to become a ranger and travel the world, inviting his friends to join him. Qi Xiaoxuan, concerned with his family's Curse of Twin Primordial Spirits, hoped to quickly break it to free future generations from suffering. Zhao Xintong, in a more contemplative mood, desired to become a tree, reminiscent of a hibiscus tree from her childhood that held her fondest memories.
Their conversation, filled with laughter and shared dreams, marked their first truly relaxed moment since the chaos that engulfed Fulong Capital. Meanwhile, at the Collection Pavilion, Jiang Xici meticulously searched through ancient texts. She remarked that if records on activating the Phurba existed, they would likely have been discovered by Yi Mei and Zhi Xie, who colluded previously.
While searching, Jiang Xici stumbled upon a painting titled "The Beginning of the World," which depicted scenes on its front and detailed the founding history of Qianyu State on its back. Wang Yuqian had heard legends of Qianyu State being established with eternal divine power five hundred years ago but was unsure of their truth.
Xiao Yunzi elaborated, confirming the legend that five hundred years ago, the founding emperor of Qianyu State built the nation with the assistance of Qiling God, a deity rumored to possess boundless power capable of turning stone into gold and trash into treasure. Consequently, for five centuries, the people of Qianyu State worshipped only Qiling God. If Qiling God indeed existed, the eternal divine power should still reside within Qianyu State.
Despite the possibility of it being merely an ancient tale, Zhao Xintong proposed they investigate in Qianyu State. She reasoned that Fulong State currently offered no other sufficiently powerful demons to reactivate the Phurba, and with the Legendary Sea crisis imminent and Qi Xiaoxuan's condition worsening, seeking divine power was their last resort. As Qi Xiaoxuan's spirit essences were rapidly dissipating, his companions unanimously agreed he should remain at the inn to rest, despite his desire to join them.
Hu Zi, Zhao Xintong, and Xiao Yunzi, accompanied by Wang Yuqian, set off for Qianyu State. During their journey, they heard a local ballad reflecting the Fulong people's philosophy of finding contentment anywhere, even if they couldn't reach the fabled Qianyu State. Upon arriving at Mount Buyu, Wang Yuqian explained its name, which means "silence," derived from the practice of traveling merchants who remained quiet to conserve energy and gain an advantage in the market.
He described Qianyu State as a rich land, abundant in minerals, where gold-built temples and jade paths adorned the prosperous capital, a depiction that revitalized Hu Zi, making him forget his weariness. However, as they neared the border, they found the bridge connecting the two states inexplicably severed and the border outpost deserted, a situation Wang Yuqian found unusual as the bridge had been intact during his last visit.
Using his flying sword, Wang Yuqian ferried them across the chasm, an act that remarkably helped him overcome his long-standing fear of heights. They noted that the bridge appeared intentionally cut, though no signs of a struggle were present. Coincidentally, at the same time, Cheng Shu was being exiled to the frontier.
His son, Cheng Jinian, hastily met him, receiving a solemn instruction to faithfully serve as the Royal Sorcerer, as this was the only hope for the Cheng family to regain its standing. Cheng Jinian vowed to bring his father back. Upon reaching the gates of Qianyu City, Wang Yuqian's group, along with other Julun people, found themselves barred from entry. The Qianyu State guards, mistaking Wang Yuqian for an imposter prince, arrested them all.
Inside the makeshift prison, Xiao Yunzi, a Qianyu native, expressed his disdain for the Julun people, recalling their status as Qianyu's slaves a century ago and asserting that the two nations could never truly be friendly, despite Hu Zi's attempt to bridge the divide. Soon, the Imperial Preceptor arrived, recognizing Wang Yuqian as the true prince and ordering their release.
Wang Yuqian, showing his compassionate nature, then insisted that all the imprisoned Julun people be set free, stating that Qianyu State never unjustly detains innocents. Back at the Fulong Bay Inn, Jiang Xici continued her exhaustive research, poring over ancient texts while Qi Xiaoxuan diligently worked to stabilize his mind. Jiang Xici informed him of her findings on Dianfeng Valley, a place teeming with formidable demons, emphasizing the need for early preparation.
She observed Qi Xiaoxuan's significant improvement, noting his body had become lighter and he could now perform moves previously impossible. Jiang Xici proposed a new combat strategy: once Qi Xiaoxuan fully adapted to his transformed body, he would combine his unique abilities with Mo Guzi's Thousand Thread technique, believing this synergy would create an unprecedented offensive mechanism. Led by the Imperial Preceptor, Wang Yuqian and his friends were escorted to meet the King of Qianyu State.
The King's stern demeanor unnerved both Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong. After the Imperial Preceptor left, Wang Yuqian humbly apologized to his father for his long absence. Surprisingly, the King, who usually urged his son to stay, instructed him to entertain his friends for a few days and then leave, explicitly telling him not to concern himself with Qianyu State's affairs, a stark contrast to his usual expectations.
During dinner, Zhao Xintong expressed her gratitude for the Red Pearls Qianyu State had previously provided, which had helped them in an urgent situation. She then explained their purpose: to seek reinforcements for the escalating Legendary Sea crisis and to inquire about borrowing the eternal divine power to reactivate the Phurba for their journey to Dianfeng Valley.
The King expressed his willingness to help but regretfully stated that Qianyu State, still reeling from recent demon attacks and focused on reconstruction, was unable to spare any troops. When the eternal divine power was mentioned, the King dismissed it as a mere legend, asserting that it did not exist, a fact he claimed to have taught Wang Yuqian since childhood.
He explained that while Qianyu State revered Qiling God as a spiritual belief, no one had ever truly seen the deity. Zhao Xintong tried to explain their reliance on the "Beginning of the World" painting for their belief, but the King, appearing weary, ended the discussion. After dinner, Wang Yuqian confessed his father's displeasure with him and his own disinterest in inheriting the throne, despite Zhao Xintong's attempts to remind him of his royal destiny.
Later, a strange, bloody scent led the group to a palace guard's chamber, where they discovered he had been killed. The Imperial Preceptor arrived, confirming that demons had infiltrated the palace multiple times recently, stealing jewels, gold, and silver ornaments, and even killing a maid named Lan. Wang Yuqian went to investigate the scene alone, finding an unidentifiable object.
A palace maid revealed that Lan had been delivering precious balsam, the last of a tribute, when she was attacked and the balsam stolen. She also recounted how concubines had been battling for rare balsams to win the King's favor, leading to widespread thefts now linked to this demon. Realizing the concubines were in danger, Wang Yuqian proposed using his extremely valuable Yuning Incense, which mimicked the scent of a phoenix in courtship, to lure the demon out.
The incense attracted a small red bird, which they followed to the demon's lair. However, the demon proved invisible, making it difficult to capture despite Hu Zi's efforts to grab it. After consulting ancient texts, Xiao Yunzi identified the demon as a "balsam thief" (Qiezhi), known for its love of rouge, fragrances, and hoarding women's treasures, as well as its enjoyment of song and dance, and its ability to turn invisible.
Since the demon was arrogant and always succeeded in its thefts, Zhao Xintong devised a new strategy: they would hold a grand song and dance feast in the imperial garden, ostensibly to celebrate the recovery of the stolen treasures, thus tempting the proud balsam thief to reveal itself.
Episode 25 Recap
Wang Yuqian and Hu Zi disguised themselves as alluring dancers, using their performance to entice Xie Zhi (the balm thief) into appearing. They seized the opportunity to capture the demon. As Qianyu State lacked the 'eternal divine power' they sought, Hu Zi and his companions decided to return to Fulong State.
During their emotional farewell, the Imperial Preceptor and the King expressed their reluctance to see Wang Yuqian depart, with the King even granting his son a rare smile for the first time. As they prepared to leave Qianyu City, Zhao Xintong felt a growing sense of unease. She found the events since Xie Zhi's capture suspiciously smooth.
Recalling the night of the capture, she realized she hadn't detected any scent of blood from Xie Zhi, yet during their recent farewell, she vaguely caught the scent of blood from the Imperial Preceptor. Deepening her suspicions, Zhao Xintong concluded that the Imperial Preceptor was complicit and feared for the King's safety. They immediately rushed back to the palace, where they encountered a demon actively feeding on human blood.
As the four prepared to apprehend the demon, the Imperial Preceptor suddenly appeared and stopped them. He revealed that the demon was, in fact, the King. He explained that days earlier, the King had personally led troops to battle invading demons but was unfortunately wounded by a Gudiao demon. Since then, every night during the 'zi shi' period (approximately 11:00 p. m. to 1:00 a. m.
), he would transform into a blood-sucking demon, only regaining his human form and calming down after consuming human blood. The Imperial Preceptor had sought help from several skilled doctors, hiding the King's identity, but all had declared the King's condition had penetrated his primordial spirit and bone marrow, making it beyond cure. Overcome with guilt, Wang Yuqian stayed by his father's bedside until the King awoke.
The King, aware of his son's medical knowledge, asked for an honest assessment of his condition, and Wang Yuqian did not hide the truth: the demon poison had spread throughout his body, threatening to fully transform him into a demon within days without a cure. The King then invited Wang Yuqian to walk with him through Qianyu City. Once a bustling hub, the city now appeared desolate, prompting the King to express shame at his inability to protect his people.
Wang Yuqian reassured him, praising his reign of peace and prosperity, suggesting that Yi Mei, who released the demons, was truly to blame. The King reminisced about Wang Yuqian's two-year absence and admitted that he had previously encouraged the messenger to conceal his own injuries from Wang Yuqian. He confessed that he too had once yearned for freedom and escaped the palace in his youth, but eventually accepted his destiny to rule.
He revealed that his strict upbringing of Wang Yuqian was to prepare him for kingship, but he also cherished Wang Yuqian's desire for freedom. As they strolled, Wang Yuqian bought a pair of new, comfortable shoes for his father, personally helping him put them on. He began affectionately calling his father "Dad," a term that deeply moved the King, who recalled the last time his son used it was when he was only two or three years old.
From atop the city walls, the King shared a long-held secret: the legend of the Qiling God was true. Five hundred years ago, their ancestor, Wang Qianyu, formed a contract with the Qiling God. The deity helped him establish the kingdom, and in return, all descendants of the Wang family were destined to become vessels for the Qiling God's divine consciousness. This divine power, passed down through their bloodline, was the lifeblood of Qianyu State's prosperity.
However, once released, the vessel would lose self-consciousness and be replaced by the divine consciousness, similar to how Wang Qianyu passed away shortly after using it. The King then revealed that this divine power resided within Wang Yuqian himself, explaining his talent for healing. He had kept this truth hidden to protect Wang Yuqian from being exploited. Though a blessing, it was also a curse, trapping the Wang family as prisoners of God for generations.
Wang Yuqian, realizing the profound responsibility, immediately thought of using this power to cure his father, but the King urged him to live his own life and pursue happiness. Meanwhile, Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong, wanting to alleviate Wang Yuqian's worries, discussed quickly locating Yi Mei in Peak Valley to find a way to cure the King's demon poison.
Upon returning to the palace, Wang Yuqian, now fully aware of the great burden he carried, searched for a solution with Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong. He discovered an ancient method known as "blood for blood, life for life," but learned that while it could save the afflicted, it would exhaust the life force of the one giving blood, leading to their demise. Both Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong vehemently opposed this method for Wang Yuqian.
That very night, rather than consume human blood, the King chose to end his own life, leaving Wang Yuqian utterly devastated and in profound grief, having lost his father so suddenly. Meanwhile, Qi Xiaoxuan's body was recovering rapidly, though his speed still needed improvement for actual combat.
With the help of Mo Guzi and the Thousand Thread, Qi Xiaoxuan could connect his consciousness with Mo Guzi's and utilize Mo Guzi's spirit essences, significantly enhancing his strength and enabling him to perform complex movements seamlessly. Wang Yuqian ascended to the throne, but his rule was met with widespread skepticism. Numerous ministers resigned, and citizens began migrating, doubting the newly crowned King's capabilities.
With the Imperial Preceptor, Hu Zi, and Zhao Xintong present, Wang Yuqian revealed the truth about the Qiling God and the divine power within him, explaining that releasing it would lead to him losing his self-consciousness as his body would be occupied by the deity. Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong adamantly refused to let Wang Yuqian sacrifice his life for the divine power.
Unexpectedly, the Imperial Preceptor took an uncharacteristically forceful stance, vehemently demanding that Wang Yuqian sacrifice his life and allow the Qiling God to govern Qianyu State, claiming it was the only way to save the nation from its current crisis and restore morale. Wang Yuqian, feeling inadequate as a ruler, considered abdicating in favor of the Imperial Preceptor, whom he believed was more competent.
He prepared an edict of abdication and attempted to leave Qianyu State with Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong. However, they were intercepted at the city gate by Xiao Yunzi and other guards. When Wang Yuqian insisted on leaving, the Imperial Preceptor arrived and used Xiao Yunzi as leverage, threatening him.
Faced with this coercion and the Imperial Preceptor's impassioned pleas for him to fulfill his destiny and save the nation, Wang Yuqian was left with no choice but to remain and participate in the sacrificial ceremony the following day, where he was to offer his life to the Qiling God. The Imperial Preceptor then scorned Wang Yuqian, calling him unfilial and lacking the virtue of a benevolent ruler for attempting to abandon his country during a time of national mourning.
Episode 26 Recap
The Imperial Preceptor, asserting his duty, approached Wang Yuqian in the dead of night, explaining that Qianyu State faced a severe catastrophe and that if Wang Yuqian could save the people from their misery, the late emperor would be proud. Wang Yuqian expressed his lifelong confusion, questioning his identity and purpose, to which the Imperial Preceptor responded that true understanding lies in knowing one's desires and pursuing them steadfastly.
He detailed the widespread famine and chaos gripping Qianyu State, urging Wang Yuqian not to ignore the suffering. Though acknowledging that forcing Wang Yuqian to release his divine power was a gamble, the Imperial Preceptor insisted it was a necessary one. Wang Yuqian, suspicious of the Imperial Preceptor's true intentions, was met with the Imperial Preceptor's feigned sleeplessness and a casual visit.
The Imperial Preceptor then invoked the principle that people adore their ruler when they live in peace, suggesting that the nation's fate would soon rest on Heaven's will. Wang Yuqian challenged this, asking what would happen if he defied Heaven's will. The Imperial Preceptor reminisced about the late king's virtuous reign and his decision to release the Qiling God to save the people, hailing it as a blessing.
Wang Yuqian curtly dismissed their long-standing relationship, but the Imperial Preceptor reminded him of the lessons from his youth, including the three cardinal guides and five constant virtues. Wang Yuqian countered by reminding him of the reciprocal duties of ruler and subject, to which the Imperial Preceptor stressed the sage's teaching that "the people come first, the country second, and the ruler last." He warned that without this sacrifice, Qianyu State would descend into a living purgatory.
Wang Yuqian declared he would die for the cause if it could truly save the people but not if it merely led to failure and mockery. The Imperial Preceptor reassured him of his divine protection and swore that if Wang Yuqian perished, he would follow him in death. Wang Yuqian surmised that in the Imperial Preceptor's heart, their lives were insignificant compared to the survival of Qianyu State, a point the Imperial Preceptor readily affirmed.
Wang Yuqian, however, asserted his desire to live his own life and pursue his own interests, feeling no need to become an immortal, a sentiment the Imperial Preceptor dismissed as selfish. The next day, as the ritual commenced, the Imperial Preceptor ordered Wang Yuqian to be tied to the Lightning Pillar. Meanwhile, in the prison, Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong speculated about the Imperial Preceptor's treachery, wondering if he was responsible for Wang Yuqian's father's fate.
Xiao Yunzi, also imprisoned, dismissed their theories, pointing out the Imperial Preceptor's past loyalty and refusal to usurp the throne. They overheard guards discussing Wang Yuqian being led to the Lightning Pillar. Xiao Yunzi explained that the Lightning Pillar was a sacred artifact of Qianyu State, used to attract or repel lightning, and that the Imperial Preceptor intended to forcefully extract Wang Yuqian's divine power. Realizing the grave danger, Zhao Xintong feared Wang Yuqian would be killed.
With urgency, Xiao Yunzi used Zhao Xintong's hairpin to pick the lock, allowing them to escape and rush to save their friend. Wang Yuqian, suspended from chains on the Lightning Pillar, somberly addressed the onlookers, expressing a hope that his death might at least grant him a semblance of kingly dignity, leaving his judgment to history. Hu Zi, Zhao Xintong, and Xiao Yunzi burst into the ceremony.
Xiao Yunzi, identifying himself, apologized for his delayed arrival, while the Imperial Preceptor angrily demanded the "outsiders" leave. Xiao Yunzi retorted, calling the Imperial Preceptor a fool for blindly trusting in gods and forgetting that humans can conquer nature. The Imperial Preceptor branded Xiao Yunzi a heretic, defending Wang Yuqian's sacrifice as a righteous act. Hu Zi, however, vehemently declared that Wang Yuqian's life was more important than any perceived righteousness and vowed to protect him.
Despite Wang Yuqian's pleas for them to flee, Hu Zi stubbornly refused, even reminding Wang Yuqian of a small debt. Hu Zi demanded Wang Yuqian be released, but the Imperial Preceptor remained resolute, proclaiming he would see the ceremony through even as a ghost. As Hu Zi continued to press, lightning struck the Lightning Pillar, and a brilliant golden lotus shape emerged from Wang Yuqian's body.
Amidst the gasps of the crowd, the lotus transformed into the Qiling God, prompting collective reverence and welcoming cries from the assembled people. The Qiling God then cast a spell, causing everyone present to fall into a deep slumber, save for Hu Zi, whose unique constitution allowed him to remain conscious. Hu Zi immediately confronted the deity, pleading for his friend's life and questioning how a true god could demand such a sacrifice.
The Qiling God explained that by borrowing a mortal body, it could fulfill the desires of the people of Qianyu State. Hu Zi vehemently rejected this, asserting that Wang Yuqian's life belonged to him alone and that the Qiling God had no right to decide his fate. The deity dismissed mortal emotions as illusions, arguing that sacrificing one life to save a nation and its people was a greater value.
Hu Zi scorned this notion of value, declaring the Qiling God unworthy of its title for such actions. Unfazed by warnings of divine wrath, Hu Zi defiantly proclaimed his belief that human will could triumph over fate, vowing to strike down any god or Buddha who stood for injustice. The Qiling God, calling Hu Zi arrogant, then scoffed at his challenge, but reacted with surprise when Hu Zi produced the Phurba.
Hu Zi declared that just as the Phurba slew the Demon Emperor five centuries ago, it would now avenge Wang Yuqian by killing the "fake god." Despite his valiant efforts, Hu Zi was ultimately overwhelmed and knocked unconscious. After Hu Zi's confrontation, the Qiling God seemed to come to a profound realization and re-entered Wang Yuqian's body. Wang Yuqian slowly regained consciousness within a virtual world, initially disoriented and calling out for his father, Hu Zi, Zhao Xintong, and Xiaoxuan.
A small, childlike figure materialized, revealing itself as the Qiling God, which had resided within the Wang family for generations. Wang Yuqian, surprised by its appearance, inquired about other shadowy figures surrounding them, which Qiling God explained were the manifestations of people's desires, the very root of human suffering and sin. Wang Yuqian demanded to know why the Qiling God had continually inhabited the consciousness of the Wang family.
The deity revealed a 500-year-old contract with Wang Qianyu, the founder of Qianyu State, who sought to establish a lasting nation and protect its people. In exchange for its aid in founding the state, the Qiling God's consciousness would pass down through the Wang family, choosing a vessel in each generation, which consequently shortened their lifespans, ensuring none lived past sixty.
Wang Yuqian expressed his indignation at being a "prisoner" of this contract, but Qiling God questioned what would become of Qianyu State and its ancestors' wishes without this divine protection. Wang Yuqian then highlighted the contradiction of being told people worshipped their own desires while his family supposedly relied on divine consciousness for governance. The Qiling God confessed that for the past five centuries, it had remained in secluded cultivation, merely observing the world and never actually intervening.
The so-called "divine blessings" were merely a spiritual comfort for the people. The true prosperity of Qianyu State over five hundred years, it asserted, was due to the diligent efforts and wise governance of the Wang family and the tireless labor of its countless citizens; it was human effort, not divine power, that achieved it, as the power of humans is truly infinite. The Qiling God then formally terminated its ancient contract with the Wang family, declaring Wang Yuqian free.
It imparted a final piece of advice: no matter the circumstances, he must always follow his heart, for human effort can achieve anything. The deity then departed, leaving Wang Yuqian to find answers to other questions on his own. Wang Yuqian awakened and immediately roused a groggy Hu Zi, who, having believed his friend dead, boasted about fighting a god for him.
Wang Yuqian then revealed that the termination of the contract meant he had lost his divine powers, including his ability to heal with his brick. Meanwhile, the other people who had fallen asleep during the ceremony also began to stir, all recounting vivid dreams where the Qiling God had enlightened them, revealing that Qianyu State's prosperity was born from their own collective strength, not divine intervention.
The Imperial Preceptor, filled with remorse, fell to his knees, confessing his folly in coercing Wang Yuqian and begging for forgiveness. Wang Yuqian, understanding his genuine concern for the state, helped him rise, declaring that they would rebuild Qianyu State through their united efforts. He then asserted their duty to contribute to resolving the escalating crisis of the Netherworld Sea, which threatened the entire continent. The people and officials enthusiastically pledged their unwavering support.
Hu Zi remarked that the Phurba had been activated during his brief clash with the Qiling God, prompting Xiao Yunzi to acknowledge that the deity still harbored some care for mortals. Recalling Qiling God's final words, Wang Yuqian entrusted the care of Qianyu State to the Imperial Preceptor during his absence, promising to return triumphantly after addressing the crisis at its source.
As Wang Yuqian prepared to depart, Xiao Yunzi and a group of Qianyu State's most capable warriors stepped forward, volunteering to accompany him, Hu Zi, and Zhao Xintong on their perilous journey, swearing their unwavering loyalty despite the foreseen hardships. Meanwhile, Qi Xiaoxuan reported to Eldest Master that his primordial spirit was stable and his power had grown significantly through combined training. Eldest Master, appearing frail, invited Xiaoxuan for a walk.
He asked Xiaoxuan to consider his future encounter with Yan, urging reconciliation and emphasizing the profound tragedy of sibling conflict, which would leave deep regrets if unresolved. Xiaoxuan promised to discuss the matter with Yan. Eldest Master then spoke of his own impending end, having lived for over five hundred years as a magical weapon and seen too much of life and death to fear his own demise.
Xiaoxuan initially dismissed his master's words as a jest, but Eldest Master revealed that it was the seventh day since Xiaoxuan's human body had been restored, marking the time for their farewell. Xiaoxuan realized with anguish that Eldest Master had sacrificed his own life force seven days prior to save Xiaoxuan's primordial spirit from complete dissipation.
Eldest Master gently comforted a grieving Xiaoxuan, explaining that he was merely returning the life given to him by the ancestors to their descendant, thus completing his purpose. His final counsel to Xiaoxuan was to remain loyal to his original aspirations, embody righteousness, and forge ahead fearlessly, ensuring that Eldest Master's sacrifice would not be in vain. Overwhelmed with profound sadness and gratitude, Xiaoxuan vowed to cherish his master's teachings and live well.
As Xiaoxuan tearfully pledged to carry on, Eldest Master transformed back into his true form, a purple-gold brush, losing all consciousness and life, while a silent figure bowed in solemn respect. As Wang Yuqian's group continued their journey, they were temporarily delayed by Hu Zi's stomach issues.
Passing through a valley nearing Fulong territory, Wang Yuqian suggested a stop at Xiangyang Ancient Town for provisions, but a warrior informed him the town had long been deserted, its inhabitants having migrated to other states. Suddenly, they were ambushed by a group of bandits. Zhao Xintong bravely fought back against the assailants, whom a bandit identified as "Qianyu State sorcerers," but she was ultimately overpowered and abducted.
Upon learning of Zhao Xintong's capture by individuals from the State of Julun, Hu Zi, now recovered, suspected the bandits might have set up camp in the abandoned Xiangyang Ancient Town. He cautioned against a rash pursuit, knowing the bandits were familiar with the local terrain, and they decided to cautiously approach the town. Meanwhile, Zhao Xintong regained consciousness to find herself bound and confined, utterly bewildered as to her captors' identities and their reasons for bringing her to this unknown location.
Episode 27 Recap
Hu Zi and Wang Yuqian, observing the Julun people's camp, found their position to be highly defensible. Wang Yuqian initially suggested a sneak attack after dark, as the Julun people's vision would be weaker then. Meanwhile, Xintong, held captive, attempted a softer approach with Xiu Damen. She feigned affection, praising him and agreeing to be his wife, hoping to buy time. She first convinced him to untie her, claiming she needed to use the toilet.
Xiu Damen, flattered and touched by her apparent change of heart, indeed untied her, believing her sincerity. Xintong then further stalled by insisting on a proper wedding ceremony, including bowing to heaven and earth, drinking Hejin Wine, and tying strands of hair, which were customs from her homeland. However, before she could gain full control or escape, a commotion outside the camp, caused by Wang Yuqian's protective detail launching a diversionary attack, alerted Xiu Damen's men.
They quickly subdued Xintong and secured her. As Wang Yuqian's detail engaged the Julun people in a fierce fight, Hu Zi, Wang Yuqian, and Xiao Yunzi attempted to sneak into the main camp to rescue Xintong. They were soon confronted by Julun warriors, who taunted them, claiming Xintong was already marrying their chieftain. Hearing this, Hu Zi, distraught, insisted on finding Xintong immediately.
He and Wang Yuqian withdrew from the direct confrontation and sought another path, only to run directly into Xiu Damen. Outnumbered, Wang Yuqian quickly pulled Hu Zi away, but in the chaos, neither of them noticed a subtle resonance between Hu Zi's Phurba and Xiu Damen's large machete. Meanwhile, Xintong, while being guarded by Ya, cleverly deduced that Ya harbored feelings for Xiu Damen.
Xintong engaged Ya in conversation, even pretending to consider becoming a concubine to Xiu Damen to further distract her. Seizing the opportunity, Xintong broke free, restrained Ya, dressed her in a red wedding gown, and placed her on the bed. When Xiu Damen returned, mistaking Ya for Xintong on the bed, Xintong appeared from the shadows and held a knife to his neck.
Wang Yuqian, who had been caught by the Julun warriors during the earlier skirmish, was identified by one of Xiu Damen's men as the "prince of Qianyu State." Xintong, holding Xiu Damen hostage, demanded Wang Yuqian's release. Just then, a nearby structure collapsed, and Xiu Damen, despite being held captive, instinctively saved Xintong from the falling debris, injuring his arm in the process.
Xintong's guard lowered, and Xiu Damen then explained his people's custom regarding his unique mask: if a woman touches it, he must marry her. He also revealed that his Julun State was devastated by the overflowing Legendary Sea, and their attempts to seek refuge in Qianyu State were rejected, leading them to become bandits out of desperation. Xintong, in turn, confessed that she was not from Qianyu State, but Zhao Xintong, the Chief Commander of Royal Sorcerers of Fulong State.
Recognizing their shared plight and Xiu Damen's honorable nature, Xintong proposed they become sworn siblings, a bond she felt would unite them as family while respecting her existing commitment. Xiu Damen agreed, and they performed the ritual. Unaware of these developments, Qi Xiaoxuan and Hu Zi arrived at the Julun camp, expecting to find a battle or a trapped Xintong. To their surprise, the camp seemed empty, but joyful laughter emanated from the main tent.
Cautiously, they entered, only to find the Julun people celebrating, with Xintong happily dancing among them. Xintong then explained the situation, much to the initial shock of Hu Zi and Qi Xiaoxuan. Xiu Damen and his brothers, noticing Hu Zi's clear affection for Xintong, playfully teased him, which prompted Hu Zi to challenge Xiu Damen to an arm-wrestling contest.
During the match, Xiu Damen's ancient machete began to hum, and an unexplained surge of divine power allowed Hu Zi to unexpectedly win. Later, Xiu Damen revealed that his machete, a family heirloom, was crafted from the bone of the Demon Emperor. Wang Yuqian explained that Hu Zi's Phurba was the very weapon used to slay the Demon Emperor, thus explaining the resonant connection between the two artifacts.
Wang Yuqian then arranged for a message to be sent to the Imperial Preceptor of Qianyu State, urging them to accept the Julun refugees, emphasizing the shared threat of the Legendary Sea. After an emotional farewell, where Xiu Damen entrusted Xintong's safety to Hu Zi, the group departed.
However, their journey back brought tragic news: upon returning to their post, they found only the purple-gold wolf brush, the original form of Eldest Master, indicating he had sacrificed himself to protect Qi Xiaoxuan. Qi Xiaoxuan, heartbroken, resolved to find a way to revive Eldest Master, recalling his master's words that he was born in Peak Valley and a solution might be found there. Following this revelation, the group prepared to venture to Peak Valley.
They tested the Phurba's ability to split the Legendary Sea, but Jiang Xici confirmed it could only keep the sea open for a mere half an hour, far too short for their large group to cross. Traditional boats were deemed unsuitable as they could not withstand the Legendary Sea's flames. Just as they pondered their limited options, Xiu Damen and his brothers arrived in a massive "Julun vehicle," a migratory transport used by their people.
Xiu Damen explained that the Julun people, renowned skilled craftsmen, could modify the vehicle's internal power system to significantly increase its speed, allowing it to traverse the Legendary Sea within the brief window the Phurba could create. He explained they would need more Demon Emperor's bones and special Red Pearls for the modification.
Qi Xiaoxuan then recalled that the Legendary Ship's bow, a source of Demon Emperor's bones, had been kept in his family's ancestral hall, and Wang Yuqian revealed he had a supply of Red Pearls. With this new hope, the Julun people pledged to help modify the vehicle for their perilous journey.
Episode 28 Recap
The Qianyu people held a longstanding disdain for the Julun people. This tension escalated into an open conflict when the Julun people, known for their large appetites, consumed all the food, leaving nothing for the Qianyu. This triggered a heated argument, with Xiao Yunzi of Qianyu and Ben Shanxian of Julun engaging in a fierce physical altercation.
Hu Zi intervened, urging them to stop fighting over something as trivial as food, but the animosity between Xiao Yunzi and Ben Shanxian continued to simmer, marked by mutual accusations of vulgarity and arrogance. Despite attempts at mediation, their resentment was palpable. Meanwhile, Qi Xiaoxuan led a group to the Qi family ancestral hall, where they successfully unearthed the long-lost ship's bow. With collective effort, the Julun people constructed the magnificent Chenghuang, an ingeniously designed vehicle.
A Julun representative explained that they had significantly improved its power system and weight, allowing it to travel several times faster than its predecessors. Though its exterior appeared compact, the Chenghuang was equipped with the legendary Xuanhuang Universe Formation, a centuries-old technique that expanded its interior space, enabling it to comfortably accommodate up to one hundred people, far exceeding initial estimates. Even Xiao Yunzi, previously critical of the Julun people, acknowledged their impressive feat, expressing his gratitude for their ingenuity.
To foster unity between the two factions, Zhao Xintong arranged a banquet. She appealed to Xiao Yunzi and Ben Shanxian to set aside their differences, emphasizing the importance of cooperation. However, their deeply entrenched animosity resurfaced, leading them to overturn the feast. Everyone present recognized the dire implications of this continued discord; if the sorcerers of both nations could not unite against external threats, they would surely face devastating defeat at Peak Valley against Yi Mei and the demons.
Jiang Xici proposed a solution, suggesting that the chieftains of Julun and the kings of Qianyu should temporarily relinquish their authority. He advocated for the appointment of a single commander-in-chief to unify all sorcerers. Zhao Xintong was unanimously deemed the most suitable candidate due to her widespread reputation and the fact that her leadership would not favor one nation over the other.
Though initially hesitant, citing her unfamiliarity with the customs of both the Julun and Qianyu sorcerers, Zhao Xintong accepted the critical role with the support and assurances of Wang Yuqian and Ben Shanxian, along with others. Zhao Xintong then addressed the crucial matter of personnel for the journey to Peak Valley. She explained that due to the Chenghuang's capacity limits, only one hundred individuals could embark.
These chosen few would need to be elite, capable of fighting ten demons simultaneously, given the vast number of demons inhabiting Peak Valley. She urged those who would not be selected for the dangerous expedition not to be disheartened, emphasizing that safeguarding their families in the capital and maintaining the weakening magical formations along the Netherworld Sea were equally vital contributions to their nations.
She stressed that whether on the front lines or defending the homeland, everyone would be a hero. Before their departure, Qi Xiaoxuan's grandmother instructed him to show no mercy to Yan at Peak Valley. She reminded him of Yan's past collusion with Yi Mei in the destruction of the capital, asserting that such grave errors were unforgivable.
Qi Xiaoxuan, still burdened by past guilt towards Yan, solemnly vowed to remain resolute, strengthened by the sacrifices made by Hu Zi and others to save his life. Meanwhile, Qi Yanran arrived and was visibly surprised to encounter Mo Lingzhi, raising questions about their presence together. Wu Lidan also stepped forward, resolute in his desire to join the expedition, stating his intention to complete his ancestors' unfinished work, though clarifying his motives were not rooted in old grudges.
Cheng Jinian, who had previously caused significant trouble, also sought to join. Despite initial skepticism from Hu Zi, Zhao Xintong believed in Cheng Jinian's sincerity, recognizing his determination to redeem himself and secure his father's release from exile. She granted him permission to enlist, hoping this perilous journey would inspire a genuine change in him. Zhao Xintong and Hu Zi then went to purchase ingredients for a pre-departure feast.
Upon recognizing Zhao Xintong as their commander-in-chief, the local citizens enthusiastically offered their produce for free, eager to contribute to the grand farewell banquet. Zhao Xintong expressed heartfelt gratitude for their generosity but insisted on paying, promising that she would remember their kindness and return safely from Peak Valley. In the midst of preparations, Ben Shanxian and Xiao Yunzi, true to form, engaged in a competitive chicken-catching contest, their rivalry persisting even in trivial tasks.
Qi Yanran, wishing to remain out of sight, helped discreetly in the back kitchen. Hu Zi, eager to assist with the cooking, was gently but firmly dissuaded by Zhao Xintong, who was well aware of his dismal culinary skills. That night, Zhao Xintong gathered everyone for the solemn farewell banquet. She reminded them of their ancestors' unity five centuries ago, when they crossed the Netherworld Sea to defeat the Demon Emperor.
She declared their unified goal: to block the Netherworld Sea and protect the continent, asserting that while the future journey was uncertain, inaction would lead to certain death. Inspired by her words, the crowd chanted their shared objective. Under the camaraderie of the feast, Xiao Yunzi and Ben Shanxian, after a spirited drinking contest, finally reconciled, acknowledging each other as brothers and letting go of their past prejudices.
Zhao Xintong also shook hands with Wu Lidan, signaling an end to their past conflicts and a new beginning as comrades. Qi Yanran, also present, privately desired to join the expedition, realizing her only way to board the Chenghuang was to incapacitate one of the selected individuals and take their boarding token. Mo Lingzhi, among the company, declined alcohol, stating her sole focus was to reach Peak Valley and personally avenge the loss of Miaomiao by defeating Yi Mei.
Later, under the starlit sky, Qi Xiaoxuan, Hu Zi, Wang Yuqian, and Zhao Xintong shared their thoughts on the impending journey, expressing a mixture of calm and excitement. Wang Yuqian spoke of his father's guidance, while Hu Zi reflected on the passage of time and the idea of fallen souls becoming stars. He tried to express a deeper sentiment to Zhao Xintong, but she gently deferred the conversation, suggesting they save it until after their safe return from Peak Valley.
The following day, with everyone assembled, the Chenghuang embarked on its journey. Zhao Xintong, leading the expedition, utilized the Phurba with the aid of a companion to maximize its power. After traveling for about three hours, the vehicle unexpectedly halted. With the Netherworld Sea rapidly closing behind them, Ben Shanxian and Xiao Yunzi volunteered to investigate the issue at the rear of the vehicle, where Red Pearls provided acceleration.
Despite the grave danger, both insisted on going, acknowledging the critical situation and their respective expertise in the Chenghuang’s mechanics. Upon reaching the rear, they discovered that simply placing the pearls was insufficient; each required the precise guidance of spirit essence to function. Working together, they channeled their powers to activate the Red Pearls, racing against time as the Netherworld Sea continued to close.
Episode 29 Recap
As the Netherworld Sea rapidly encroached, Ben Shanxian helped Xiao Yunzi onto the Julun vehicle but was tragically swallowed by the sea himself. This significant loss occurred before the group even reached Peak Valley, leaving everyone deeply saddened. After a challenging journey, the group finally arrived at Peak Valley. The landscape was unlike anything recorded in ancient texts, with thick yellow sand and mist obscuring visibility.
The Chief noted that these records were mere fabrications, as no one had set foot there in 500 years. Unable to discern a clear path, the Chief suggested finding a safe camping spot and tasked Biao Damen with securing the Julun vehicle. An exploratory kite was launched, but only one returned, providing no useful information for navigation. Deciding to explore independently, the group split into eastern and western teams. Qi Xiaoxuan partnered with Mo Guzi for one team.
Meanwhile, Zhao Xintong paired with Hu Zi, and they were joined by Ya and Cheng Jinian. The Chief, Biao Damen, the Second Master, and Wang Yuqian (the King) remained at the base camp to manage logistics and set up camp. Soon after, Qi Xiaoxuan's team encountered treacherous quicksand. They noted the sand's unusual behavior, making it difficult to discern safe ground, and decided to return to camp for further discussion.
Hu Zi's group then faced a horde of white demons, which proved incredibly resilient, with bodies as hard as steel. Hu Zi quickly discovered their vulnerability: their ears. Despite this insight, the overwhelming numbers took a toll, and both Ya and Cheng Jinian sustained injuries.
Recognizing that the demons were deliberately exhausting them, Zhao Xintong ordered Wu Lidan to lead the injured and remaining members back to camp for reinforcements, while she and Hu Zi stayed to provide cover for their retreat. During the fight, Hu Zi was ensnared by an illusion, seeing his mother, which left Zhao Xintong fighting alone. She was wounded, sustaining a scratch to her abdomen from a white demon.
After regaining his senses, Hu Zi was filled with regret and vowed to protect her. Soon after, while rescuing Zhao Xintong, both fell into a large, unnaturally carved cave. Meanwhile, back at the base camp, the Second Master noticed something peculiar when an exploratory kite he released became trapped. Upon investigation, Jiang Xici discovered that the entire camp was encircled by an intricate network of fine, sharp threads, distinct from Mo Guzi's.
This was not a mere trap, but a barrier forged from spirit essences, clearly designed to trap and eliminate them. Upon returning to the base camp, Qi Xiaoxuan's team found the area ensnared by Mo Qianchou's "Thousand Silks Break," a lost art of the Mo family, consisting of threads as fine as hair but as tough as steel. Qi Xiaoxuan instructed Mo Guzi to use his own threads to control Qi Xiaoxuan, allowing him to confront Mo Qianchou directly.
When Mo Qianchou's veil was lifted, they were shocked to discover he was Mo Guzi's own ancestor. After subduing Mo Qianchou, Mo Guzi diagnosed him, finding no pulse or heartbeat, concluding he was merely a living corpse, his soul long gone, likely sacrificed 500 years ago and now controlled. Jiang Xici surmised that bone nails, likely from Yi Mei, had been implanted into Mo Qianchou's vital points, enabling this control.
To prevent further desecration, Mo Guzi removed the bone nails, which briefly restored Mo Qianchou's consciousness. After learning about the current era, Mo Qianchou, using his remaining spirit essence, infused a necklace bead, transferring the "Thousand Silks Break" technique to Mo Guzi. Following this, Qi Xiaoxuan and the Chief discussed the unsettling reality of Peak Valley.
The Chief revealed his observations that the island's calm facade was an illusion, as its very location and orientation constantly shifted, rendering compasses useless and the sun's position unreliable. Qi Xiaoxuan's team corroborated this, describing the quicksand they encountered as possessing a life-like, energy-draining quality, making the eastern path impassable.
With an approaching sandstorm threatening to obliterate the camp and still no news from Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong, the Chief, noting that only the Bloody Waterfall remained constant, ordered the entire camp to strike and relocate there. Back in the cave, Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong were confronted by Zhao Lingyan, an ancient ancestor of the Zhao family, who had been trapped for five centuries after being defeated by the Eternal Tiger Demon—Hu Zi's own mother.
Zhao Lingyan, still embittered by her defeat, immediately insulted Hu Zi, calling him a "bastard son" of the tiger demon. A fierce argument erupted between them, which Zhao Xintong struggled to quell, urging them to focus on the greater threat of Yi Mei. Zhao Lingyan claimed she knew how to escape the cave by using her unique "Yan Ling Spike" technique to break through the walls.
However, Zhao Xintong admitted that this art had been largely lost over centuries, with only vague fragments remaining in their family's archives. Zhao Lingyan, in turn, mocked the current generation's incompetence. She offered to teach Zhao Xintong the technique, but only on the cruel condition that Hu Zi remain behind to die with her as a form of posthumous revenge.
Zhao Xintong vehemently refused this demand, which caused Zhao Lingyan to spitefully withhold her knowledge, leaving the two trapped and frustrated by her uncooperative and hostile nature. Concerned for Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong, who had not returned, Qi Xiaoxuan initiated a search after a signal flare, identified as Hu Zi's, was spotted. Qi Xiaoxuan's team located Wu Lidan and his injured group.
Wu Lidan explained that Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong had stayed behind to cover their retreat from a white demon ambush. Confirming that Peak Valley's landscape continued to shift, Qi Xiaoxuan noted Hu Zi's clever use of path markers. He then sent Wu Lidan to guide the injured sorcerers to the main force, which was already relocating to the Bloody Waterfall due to the sandstorm.
Qi Xiaoxuan then pressed on, following the general direction Wu Lidan indicated, to find Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong. Back in the cave, Zhao Xintong's injury worsened. Hu Zi, desperate, offered to stay and die with Zhao Lingyan if she taught Zhao Xintong the Yan Ling Spike to escape. Zhao Lingyan agreed, relishing the thought of Hu Zi's demise as revenge for his mother.
Zhao Xintong, despite her worsening condition, adamantly refused to leave Hu Zi and insisted on staying with him. Hu Zi then unleashed a furious tirade, condemning Zhao Lingyan as worse than a demon for her lack of compassion, despite her hero status. He provoked her by suggesting her legacy would be utterly forgotten if the Zhao family line ended with them.
Infuriated, Zhao Lingyan, in a sudden, almost spiteful act, pointed out a special water source within the cave wall that could replenish spirit essence. Zhao Lingyan then intentionally tricked Hu Zi into a narrow crevice, trapping him with a large rock. Zhao Xintong, despite her injuries, bravely dug to free Hu Zi, denouncing Zhao Lingyan's treachery and stating her unwavering commitment to either escape or die together. Once freed, Hu Zi's first act was to give Zhao Xintong the restorative water.
Episode 30 Recap
Zhao Lingyan prepared to teach Zhao Xintong the Yan Ling Spike, beginning with a lengthy, seemingly irrelevant discourse that frustrated Hu Zi. Zhao Lingyan eventually revealed the core of the technique, guiding Zhao Xintong to grasp its true meaning.
Zhao Xintong struggled to control her spirit essences with the proper mental method, but Zhao Lingyan elucidated that the spear’s fundamental power lies in "change," emphasizing how spirit essences, when transferred to the spear, can turn it into an extension of one's body. Hu Zi later elaborated on the "Feel, Induct, Dissolve, Release" cultivation method, which he learned from the Eldest Master via the Zi Jin Wolf Brush, further aiding Zhao Xintong's comprehension.
Zhao Lingyan demonstrated the enhanced power of the spear imbued with spirit essence, stressing that "the rigid can easily break, but the malleable can survive." As the group traversed Peak Valley, Qi Xiaoxuan noted the strange environment, observing that the vast amounts of withered trees, reefs, and rocks suggested the area was once a flourishing forest.
He deduced that the valley's current barren state was a result of the Demon Emperor’s blood transforming into the blazing Nether Sea after his demise five hundred years prior. The valley’s extreme temperatures—scorching during the day and freezing at night—raised concerns for Zhao Xintong and Hu Zi. Qi Xiaoxuan and Mo Guzi decided to scout ahead, while the main group, continuing their journey, encountered White Demons that could burrow underground and whose weakness was their ears.
Recognizing their overwhelming numbers, the group opted to move silently to avoid waking them. Zhao Xintong’s grasp of the Yan Ling Spike proved exceptional, and Zhao Lingyan declared her ready. Zhao Lingyan realized her lingering primordial spirit had remained precisely to reunite with her descendants five centuries later, and she entrusted Zhao Xintong with the Zhao family's ultimate skill, admonishing her never to let it be lost again. With her mission fulfilled, Zhao Lingyan’s last trace of spirit essence vanished.
Zhao Xintong then channeled all her spirit essence to shatter a stone wall, through which Hu Zi carried her out, comforting the exhausted Zhao Xintong with promises of a future together, including opening a small restaurant and planting hibiscus trees back in Babao Town. Meanwhile, the main group felt they were traveling in circles, despite the changing scenery. Qi Xiaoxuan discovered an arrow mark he had made was now inverted, indicating that the entire island had somehow flipped over.
Faced with quicksand, Xiu Damen, a Julun person experienced with such terrains, explained that areas with vines and lush vegetation often indicated underground rivers, making them unsafe. He advised finding areas with no vines or withered branches, and using a special tool for listening to confirm solid ground. Jiang Xici used the tool and confirmed that the area along a stone wall was stable.
Soon after, Qi Xiaoxuan's group reunited with the main camp, finding Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong, who had collapsed in the sand, and they all proceeded to Udumbara Valley. As they reached Udumbara Valley, Yi Mei, from the shadows, seemed to be orchestrating events, inviting them to enjoy the "scenery." Jiang Xici recognized the valley from ancient texts as the dwelling place of the White Tiger, and the nearby mountain as the Demon Emperor's Twin Mountain.
Wu Lidan expressed deep regret over Zhao Xintong’s injuries, believing she was hurt while protecting them. Mo Guzi provided medicine which significantly aided Zhao Xintong's recovery. Qi Xiaoxuan's Soul Lamp, however, flickered intensely, signaling the rapid dissipation of his primordial spirit. Suddenly, white camellia flowers appeared around their camp, and their vines attacked the guards, confirming Yi Mei’s intent to obstruct their path to the Bloody Waterfall. The elder known as Grandma recognized these flowers as Yi Mei's signature.
Qi Xiaoxuan and Mo Guzi led a team to investigate a light on a mountain peak, suspecting a formation, and encountered Yi Mei, who mocked Qi Xiaoxuan’s use of a new body. Mo Guzi identified the unusual camellias as the Soul Captivating Flower, a variant thought extinct for centuries, which Yi Mei employed as a formation. Yi Mei then unleashed the formation, forcing Qi Xiaoxuan’s team to retreat. Back at the camp, Hu Zi and Zhao Xintong recovered.
Hu Zi apologized for his previous recklessness, and they reaffirmed their promise to survive together. The camellia flowers rapidly advanced, with some emerging at Cheng Jinian's feet and entangling him. Ya rushed to his aid. As dawn broke, the white camellias transformed into red ones, emitting a sweet, soporific fragrance that caused anyone who inhaled it, including Wang Yuqian's companion, to fall unconscious.
Qi Xiaoxuan and Mo Guzi returned, explaining that the Soul Captivating Flower is red by day, releasing gas that induces unconsciousness, and white by night, its roots and vines becoming lethal weapons that drag victims underground. Knowing that the red camellias had no direct offensive capability during the day, Qi Xiaoxuan proposed to go alone to find the formation's eye, as he lacked the sense of smell. Jiang Xici objected, citing Qi Xiaoxuan's weakening primordial spirit.
Mo Guzi, however, suggested using silver needles to temporarily seal their sense of smell, allowing a small group to search for the camellia's "mother plant," believing its destruction would break the formation. While they embarked on this risky search, Jiang Xici and the Second Master set up a barrier to protect the remaining soldiers from the spreading fragrance. When a section of the barrier briefly failed, Ya and Cheng Jinian were exposed to the fragrance and fainted, but Jiang Xici and the Second Master swiftly repaired the breach.
Episode 31 Recap
As night fell, the camellia flowers transformed from red to white, signaling the arrival of Yi Mei, who immediately trapped Hu Zi and his companions. She boasted about cultivating the vast camellia field and knew they had previously used their sense of smell to break her daytime hypnosis formation. Yi Mei taunted them, asking them to consider how they would escape.
Qi Xiaoxuan demanded to know where Yan was, but Yi Mei claimed Yan had followed her willingly and might be waiting for him elsewhere. At the main camp, the situation grew desperate as the camellia vines advanced, threatening to entangle anyone who moved, turning them into "flower fertilizer." The First Master, having expended much spirit essence on previous formations, confirmed no existing magic could counter these vines.
Some disheartened sorcerers at the camp expressed a desire to retreat, claiming their mission to cut off the source of the Legendary Sea was futile, especially with food scarcity. Wu Lidan and Xiao Yunzi vehemently criticized their lack of resolve, reminding them of the sacrifices of others, like Ben Shanxian, who died helping them reach Dianfeng Valley. They urged everyone to stay alert, as the vines would reach them in half an hour.
Yi Mei stated her sole purpose for being there was Qi Xiaoxuan, claiming Dianfeng Valley held "truths and answers here that no one else knows." When Hu Zi asked about his mother, Yi Mei confirmed he would see her but indicated she was currently "useful" to her. Qi Yanran confronted Yi Mei, accusing her of killing a being she referred to as "Eldest Master," who had sacrificed himself to protect Qi Yanran's primordial spirit.
Yi Mei, however, denied intentionally harming him, attributing it to fate, and even threatened to arrange a new body for Qi Yanran. As Qi Yanran fought Yi Mei, Yi Mei noted Qi Yanran's improved combat skills, though still insufficient. During the intense struggle, Mo Guzi utilized his Thousand Thread Break technique to bind Yi Mei. Once Yi Mei was restrained, Qi Xiaoxuan freed the others. Xintong then located the formation's core, successfully dismantling the Camellia Formation.
Cheers erupted throughout the camp as the immediate danger passed. With the Camellia Formation broken, Hu Zi and his companions decided against executing Yi Mei, as they had too many unanswered questions for her. Yi Mei, however, proved too cunning for the Thousand Thread Break. She declared that while her capture was one of their goals, cutting off the source of the Legendary Sea was an "impossible goal."
She then pointed to the Bloody Waterfall, identifying it as the source of the Legendary Sea, challenging them to cut it off. Yi Mei also remarked on Hu Zi's unexpected ability to activate the Phurba's power in a mere few days, a feat that took her five hundred years. Despite being wounded, Yi Mei used the opportunity to escape, mounting a White Tiger and flying away.
Qi Yanran immediately gave chase, vowing to catch Yi Mei to atone for her past sins, including destroying the Qi family and causing her grandma's death, and promising to restore Qi Xiaoxuan's original body upon Yi Mei's capture. Hu Zi watched in a daze, realizing the White Tiger was his mother. Hu Zi, Qi Xiaoxuan, Qi Yanran, and Mo Guzi arrived at the Bloody Waterfall.
Though Yi Mei had claimed it was the source of the Legendary Sea, they were wary of her trickery and recognized the immense difficulty in severing such a powerful flow. Hu Zi was also deeply troubled by his mother's alliance with Yi Mei. They debated returning to the camp to consult the First Master when they suddenly heard a human voice emanating from within the waterfall.
Intrigued, they entered the cave behind the waterfall, where they discovered an elder with white hair trapped within a stone wall—Qi Wuji, the ancient ancestor of the Qi family. Inside the cave, Hu Zi initially claimed to be a descendant of the Qi family. However, Qi Xiaoxuan, ever cautious, questioned the elder's identity despite his youthful appearance with white hair.
Qi Xiaoxuan then, observing a distinct mark, confirmed the elder's identity as Qi Wuji, the ancient ancestor, and knelt, acknowledging his own lineage as the 19th generation of the Qi family. Qi Wuji explained his five-hundred-year entrapment: after slaying the Demon Emperor, he gained an immortal body but was cursed to petrify if he left Dianfeng Valley, leading him to merge with the stone wall over centuries.
With Mo Guzi's Thousand Thread Break, combined with the collective strength of Hu Zi, Qi Xiaoxuan, and Qi Yanran, they successfully freed Qi Wuji. Qi Wuji recounted the five-hundred-year events: he led sorcerers to defeat the Demon Emperor using the Phurba, but the Demon Emperor's blood transformed into destructive legendary flames, devastating the land and creating the Legendary Sea, trapping them on the island.
While some managed to escape on a Legendary Ship built from the Demon Emperor's bones, Qi Wuji and his beloved wife, Ye Kongming, stayed behind to protect others, thus missing their chance to leave. He further revealed that the only way to sever the source of the Legendary Sea was to locate the Demon Emperor's heart, which had transformed into an "ever-beating stone heart." However, five centuries had drastically altered Dianfeng Valley, rendering its current location unknown even to him.
The return of Qi Wuji to the main camp immediately uplifted the flagging morale. Previously, some sorcerers, demoralized by the ongoing dangers, lack of food, and apparent lack of progress, had openly declared their intent to abandon the mission, causing heated arguments that even the First Master and Second Master could not resolve. The First Master, who was revealed to be Qi Xiaoxuan's grandmother and maintained her youthful appearance through a forbidden Mo family technique, greeted him.
They resumed discussions on finding the Demon Emperor's heart, but Qi Wuji confessed his imprisonment had left him unable to locate it in the transformed Dianfeng Valley. However, he provided crucial information: a wetland in the northwest corner of the Twin Mountains served as the island's only water source and harbored edible resources like wild olives and sweet potatoes, enough to sustain the camp.
Hu Zi, still grappling with his mother's alliance with Yi Mei, expressed a desire to find her, but was advised by Xintong to consult Qi Wuji about the five-hundred-year-old events first. The discovery of food greatly boosted the camp's spirits, though Qi Wuji revealed he could no longer taste, accepting it as a minor loss compared to being alive.
Recognizing his own fading life force after five centuries, Qi Wuji resolved to transfer his lifelong cultivation to Qi Xiaoxuan, seeing him as the Qi Sect's last hope. Qi Xiaoxuan then revealed his plight: he suffers from the Curse of Twin Primordial Spirits, with his original body usurped by another primordial spirit named Yan, who was now with Yi Mei.
The body he currently inhabited was a temporary form created by the self-sacrifice of a magic weapon, which Qi Yanran referred to as "Eldest Master." Qi Wuji then dropped a bombshell: the Curse of Twin Primordial Spirits originated five hundred years ago when the White Tiger, assisting the Demon Emperor, killed his twin brother Qi Wushuang and left a distinctive claw mark on Qi Wuji, leading to the birth of children with two primordial spirits in subsequent generations.
Hu Zi, stunned by Qi Wuji's accusation that the White Tiger was a "vicious and despicable" demon responsible for countless deaths, vehemently denied it, asserting the White Tiger was his mother. A heated argument ensued, with Qi Wuji condemning Hu Zi for questioning the sacrifices of ancestors who died in the Legendary Sea. Qi Xiaoxuan intervened, emphasizing that finding Yi Mei and rescuing Hu Zi's mother was their immediate priority, regardless of past grudges.
He reassured Hu Zi that he would help him retrieve his original body, no matter the cost. Hu Zi, deeply troubled, drifted to sleep, still wrestling with the disturbing revelation about his mother. That night, while the sorcerers patrolled, yearning for the glory of their mission and the hope of returning home, the White Tiger suddenly appeared. The patrolling sorcerers quickly spotted her, recognizing an opportunity for great achievements.
One immediately went to report, while others rallied to capture the White Tiger, declaring their intent to kill the tiger demon as retribution for the five-hundred-year-old tragedy and to honor their ancestors. Meanwhile, Mo Guzi was using Thousand Thread Break to stabilize Qi Xiaoxuan's spirit essence, whose Soul Lamp was nearing its limit, hoping to buy him a few more days until Yan could be found.
Hearing the commotion, Mo Guzi went to investigate and found Hu Zi standing protectively before the White Tiger, his mother, who was now surrounded and under attack by numerous sorcerers. The sorcerers, seeing Hu Zi defend the "tiger demon," turned their aggression on him, accusing him of siding with their enemy and abandoning his kin.
Episode 32 Recap
Xintong and Hu Zi's allies quickly joined him, attempting to calm the agitated sorcerers. They argued that White Tiger, despite being a demon, was Hu Zi's mother. The Ancestor, seemingly filled with intense hatred for White Tiger, appeared. He used his essence power to forcefully hurl Hu Zi and Xintong aside, then trapped White Tiger within an iron cage. Although the Chief was present, he could only bide his time, waiting for an opportune moment to act.
The Ancestor vehemently declared that White Tiger had caused the deaths of numerous sorcerers and intended to execute her to honor the deceased. However, Xintong bravely pointed out that these were merely his unsubstantiated claims, a crucial detail that greatly enraged the Ancestor. Undeterred by reason, the sorcerers, blinded by their desire for glory, continued to clamor for White Tiger's death, leaving Hu Zi and his allies in a precarious position.
The Ancestor seized the Phurba from Hu Zi's grasp and, before everyone's eyes, set White Tiger ablaze. Hu Zi watched in utter despair, unable to comprehend his mother's agonizing death before him. Qi Xiaoxuan pleaded with the Ancestor to spare Hu Zi, but the Ancestor vehemently rebuked him, asking how a descendant of the Qi Sect could align himself with the son of a tiger demon.
Qi Xiaoxuan, however, firmly asserted that Hu Zi was his friend, declaring that he cared nothing for being expelled from the Qi Sect. In a defiant act, he deliberately destroyed the spiritual essence that the Ancestor had previously instilled in him to protect his primordial spirit. After the tragic event, Xintong and Mo Guzi discovered Hu Zi had disappeared.
Together with Qi Xiaoxuan, who had returned, they embarked on a search and eventually found Hu Zi unconscious and dehydrated from prolonged exposure to the sun on the sand. They quickly provided him with water, carried him to a nearby cave, and stayed by his side, offering comfort and support. Qi Xiaoxuan spoke to Hu Zi, urging him not to give up, no matter what difficulties he faced, and to never abandon his friends.
Later, due to the inherent connection between twin primordial spirits, Qi Xiaoxuan experienced recurring dreams of a particular cave and vivid images of Yan. Awakening from these visions, he followed the guidance of his primordial spirit, located Yan, but inadvertently walked into a trap set by Yi Mei. The following morning, as the friends were lighting a fire outside the cave to cook, Hu Zi, hearing their conversations, finally began to open up.
However, they soon realized that Qi Xiaoxuan was missing. His Soul Lamp was exceedingly dim, and coupled with the fact that his essence had been withdrawn after his heated argument with the Ancestor, everyone grew deeply concerned for his well-being. Jiang Xici voiced her disapproval of the Ancestor's decision to burn White Tiger in front of Hu Zi, though she did not overtly challenge his authority.
The Second Master arrived, reporting a sudden surge of demonic aura originating from the peak of Twin Mountain. Before departing to investigate with a small contingent, the Ancestor instructed the remaining forces to concentrate their efforts on locating the Demon Emperor's heart in a specific direction he indicated. Meanwhile, Qi Xiaoxuan regained consciousness, finding himself bound by iron chains. He desperately urged Yan to leave with him, insisting their current location was perilous.
Yet, Yan, still consumed by resentment over the blow Qi Xiaoxuan (whom he referred to as Qian) had struck him years ago, was deeply prejudiced and refused to heed his warnings. Outside, the four friends began their search for Qi Xiaoxuan, fanning out in four directions, each carrying a Thousand Thread Break. Their plan was that if any of the threads resonated, it would indicate Qi Xiaoxuan's proximity.
Upon reaching the vicinity of the Bloody Waterfall, the Ancestor intentionally left Jiang Xici and her group there, tasking them with suppressing the demonic aura. He then proceeded alone behind the waterfall to search for the Demon Emperor's heart. Elsewhere, another group, including Xiu Damen, struggled through a blinding sandstorm, making their progress incredibly difficult. Among the group, two distinct viewpoints emerged: some supported the Ancestor's merciless actions against White Tiger, while others found his methods excessively cruel.
After a considerable amount of time, the Ancestor's prolonged absence sparked suspicion in Jiang Xici. She instructed the Second Master and Xiu Damen to maintain their position and went to investigate herself, only to discover that they had fallen into a meticulously planned trap. Inside the cave, as Yi Mei prepared to merge Qi Xiaoxuan's primordial spirits, Qi Xiaoxuan, having unexpectedly broken free from his chains, struck Yi Mei. Yan then cooperated with Qi Xiaoxuan to fight Yi Mei.
At that moment, the true Qi Wuji suddenly appeared. Yan, recognizing him, declared that this Qi Wuji was a demon. He further revealed that he and Yi Mei had encountered this Qi Wuji upon their arrival at Peak Valley, recognizing his abnormal identity even then.
The newly revealed Qi Wuji, trapped in Peak Valley for 500 years, demanded to know why it took him so long to return, reminding him that he had stolen the Phurba and left him confined in the valley for centuries, suffering immense despair. The imposter, the one Yan had called a demon, explained that the Phurba had lost its power after leaving the island.
He detailed how the Wolf Demon King, whom the original Qi Wuji inquired about, had died fighting sorcerers to split the Legendary Sea. He further explained that he had used White Tiger's demonic tail, found within a young man's body after her death, to temporarily reactivate the Phurba and complete the task. However, the Phurba had once again lost all its power and had been discarded into the Legendary Sea.
The imposter Qi Wuji then declared his plan to retrieve the fully empowered Phurba, stating that with the Red Pearl Formation destroyed and the Legendary Sea now a pressing threat to the mainland, those on the continent would inevitably return, and for Qi Xiaoxuan's sake, they would bring the reactivated Phurba with them. The original Qi Wuji then confirmed Qi Xiaoxuan's identity as a descendant of the Qi family.
He recounted that he had killed the Demon Emperor but had subsequently been cursed, losing his heart and senses, and suffering immense pain from his heartless existence. He stated that he could now be reborn with Qi Xiaoxuan's help. However, upon examining Qi Xiaoxuan, he realized only one primordial spirit was present. He then demanded the heart of the "Twin Primordial Spirits" and asked where the other one was. Yi Mei offered to help him acquire it under a specific condition, mentioning "Ye Kongming."
Episode 33 Recap
Qi Wuji, imprisoned for five centuries, described himself as a prisoner slowly consumed by despair and time. He lamented his existence, feeling neither truly human nor ghost-like, experiencing a world devoid of color, scent, or taste. He explained that a curse had left him without a heart, depriving him of human sensation and warmth. He sought the hearts of the Twin Primordial Spirits to achieve true rebirth and become a complete human.
While Qi Wuji pursued his goals, Hu Zi and his companions used a resonant thread to track him, eventually locating an entrance to his hidden lair, undeterred by the vanishing thread signal. After inhabiting Qi Xiaoxuan's body, Yan observed that Qian had kept various mementos related to him in his room, realizing the depth of his brother's feelings and that Qian had not forgotten him.
Later, Yan conversed with Eldest Master, who confirmed the past misunderstandings surrounding the Spirit Lock Ritual. Eldest Master explained that Qian had matured from a timid child into a brave and responsible individual, becoming the Royal Sorcerer and Commander of the White Camp, burdened by eight years of guilt. Eldest Master emphasized that the curse, not the brothers, was the true source of their suffering, urging them to mend their bond as they were the closest kin in the world.
Yan also shared his initial hatred for Qian's betrayal and for Jiang Xici's unfair treatment, but also the profound joy of experiencing life's simple wonders after inhabiting Qi Xiaoxuan’s body. He revealed that he had come to Peak Valley to end the five-century-old Twin Primordial Spirit Curse that had tormented the Qi family for generations. Inside a mysterious realm, Qian and Yan, the two primordial spirits, reconciled.
Qian apologized for his past actions concerning the Spirit Lock Ritual, admitting he later discovered Qi Yanran’s involvement in the Spirit Assassination Pill incident. He expressed deep remorse for not trusting Yan and for allowing Yan to be trapped while he remained. Yan, having recently experienced a similar dark solitude through occupying a puppet, further understood the profound despair of the Soul Mirror world.
Having observed Qian’s growth and realizing the depth of his brother's feelings, Yan decided to make the ultimate sacrifice. He told Qian that he had lived eight years longer, and it was now Qian's turn to truly live. Yan sacrificed his own primordial spirit, leaving the physical body of Qi Xiaoxuan to Qian, and urged him to live his own life, not anyone else’s.
Hu Zi and his group finally located Qi Xiaoxuan, interrupting Qi Wuji’s attempt to consume Qi Xiaoxuan’s primordial spirit, thus revealing Qi Wuji's true, treacherous nature. During the chaotic confrontation, it became clear that Qi Wuji and Yi Mei were collaborating, an alliance that surprised the group. One of the companions confronted Yi Mei, vowing vengeance for Miaomiao, to which Yi Mei responded cruelly.
Recognizing they were outmatched by Qi Wuji's divine power, Mo Guzi, recalling a tender memory, made a selfless decision. He channeled all his vital energy into a silk thread, ensnaring Qi Wuji in a cocoon-like binding, creating a diversion for the others to escape. Mo Guzi perished in his act of sacrifice as the cave collapsed around them. The Jinhua sisters trio returned to the main camp, reporting no success in their search through the sandy terrain.
Jiang Xici, the Second Master, and Xiu Damen also returned from Twin Mountain, confirming that the demonic aura there had vanished and Qi Wuji was nowhere to be found. Concerned, Jiang Xici alerted everyone that Qi Wuji was a dangerous anomaly and urged them to swiftly locate Qi Xiaoxuan and the others. Meanwhile, Yi Mei, after secretly rescuing White Tiger from Qi Wuji's burning attempt, healed her with Millennium Ice.
White Tiger's human form would only last a few days, but she honored her promise to Yi Mei. She guided Yi Mei through a deceptive formation to her master, Night Kongming’s, hidden coffin. Yi Mei recounted her own origin, created as a puppet by Night Kongming, with whom she grew up happily. Their bond was shattered when Night Kongming fell deeply in love with Qi Wuji, following him to Peak Valley.
There, Yi Mei gained a physical body from a spiritual pearl bestowed by Night Kongming. Yi Mei witnessed Night Kongming's profound sadness as Qi Wuji's affections lay elsewhere. Everything changed after Qi Wuji killed the Demon Emperor. To Yi Mei's shock, Qi Wuji turned against Night Kongming in the ensuing battle, hunting her down, only to then declare his love and marry her.
They lived in Peak Valley for nearly a year, during which Night Kongming gave birth to the first child with Twin Primordial Spirits in the Qi family. Just before their planned departure from Peak Valley on a ship built from the Demon Emperor’s bones, a panicked Night Kongming entrusted Yi Mei with the Phurba and the child, urging her to escape while she desperately attempted to prevent Qi Wuji from boarding the ship.
For five centuries, Yi Mei had been tormented by these unanswered questions, believing her master's actions hid a deeper truth. White Tiger finally revealed the "500-year lie" to Yi Mei. Separately, Qi Yanran learned from Mo Lingzhi about Qi Xiaoxuan’s rapidly fading primordial spirit. Commander Wu also expressed urgent concern, mobilizing a search party for Qi Xiaoxuan and the others.
Qi Yanran, having learned of Qi Xiaoxuan’s critical condition, confronted Yi Mei, expressing her determination to take responsibility for her past actions and find him. Armed with the devastating truth of the past and fueled by a desire to avenge her master, Yi Mei confronted Qi Wuji, declaring that only one of them would survive their final battle.
Episode 34 Recap
After a fierce confrontation, Qi Yanran engaged Yi Mei in battle, seeking to avenge her grandmother. However, Yi Mei's devotion to her master, whose corpse she fiercely protected, became a point of leverage for Qi Yanran, allowing her to strike Yi Mei. Enraged, Yi Mei retaliated, striking Qi Yanran. As the fight intensified, Mo Lingzhi, who had appeared in the form of Jiang Xici, intervened to shield Qi Yanran, though her spirit essence was already depleted.
She tried to warn Qi Yanran against reckless action, but Qi Yanran, driven by vengeance, charged forward, only to be struck down again by Yi Mei. Mo Lingzhi, despite her weakening state, bravely used her own body to protect Qi Yanran from a fatal blow. Seizing an opportunity when Yi Mei was distracted, Qi Yanran fatally wounded Yi Mei with a flying knife. Together, Qi Yanran and Mo Lingzhi finally defeated Yi Mei.
As Yi Mei fell, she continued to express her unwavering loyalty to her master. Qi Yanran, observing Yi Mei's profound, tragic devotion to what she realized was merely a puppet, began to question the true events of five hundred years ago. Before leaving the scene, Mo Lingzhi, out of respect for the deeply affectionate Yi Mei and Ye Kongming, instructed Qi Yanran to carefully place both the puppet and Ye Kongming’s body back into the crystal coffin.
Mo Lingzhi, severely weakened from the battle, revealed to a shocked Qi Yanran that her time was at an end. Qi Yanran was stunned to discover that "Jiang Xici," her comrade in battle, was in fact her grandmother, Mo Lingzhi. Mo Lingzhi confessed that after she was knocked off a cliff by Yi Mei and rescued by Mo Guzi, her meridians reversed, causing her to take on a different appearance.
She tearfully apologized for her past harshness and resentment towards Qi Yanran, admitting her stubbornness and lack of genuine care, despite Qi Yanran and Qi Xiaoxuan being her own blood. She acknowledged Qi Yanran’s excellence and regretted giving up on her so easily. As Mo Lingzhi spoke her final words, calling Qi Yanran by her nickname, she perished, her primordial spirit condensing into a luminous bead. Qi Yanran, devastated, cradled the bead and wept.
Afterward, Qi Yanran returned to the main camp, bringing the primordial spirit bead. Upon learning it was his grandmother's condensed spirit, Qi Xiaoxuan broke down in tears. News of Mo Lingzhi's disappearance, along with Qi Wuji's, quickly spread through the main camp. Meanwhile, Hu Zi, Qi Xiaoxuan, Xintong, and Cheng Jinian returned, bringing alarming revelations about Qi Wuji.
They declared that Qi Wuji was a 500-year-old demon, whose elaborate conspiracy with Yi Mei was designed to obtain the heart of the Qi family bloodline, a scheme that tragically led to Mo Guzi's death. Many sorcerers initially scoffed, accusing them of slandering their revered ancestor and savior, even calling Hu Zi a demon's son. However, Xiu Damen urged for calm, allowing the group to present their case.
Xintong recounted Qi Wuji's suspicious disappearances and how his misleading guidance regarding the Netherworld Sea's outlet had nearly caused disaster. Commander-in-chief Zhao corroborated that Qi Wuji's directions for finding the Demon Emperor's Heart had been intentionally false, leading them into perilous quicksand. Qi Xiaoxuan, asserting his own Qi family lineage, passionately argued against blind faith in Qi Wuji, reminding them of his consistent absence during critical moments.
Gradually, swayed by the logical arguments and the proven integrity of Hu Zi, some sorcerers laid down their weapons, choosing to trust their comrades over the deceitful ancestor. As the discussions continued, a massive sandstorm descended, far more intense than any previous one, threatening to engulf the camp. Just as everyone prepared to evacuate, a magnificent White Tiger appeared, effortlessly calming the raging winds. Hu Zi, recognizing his long-lost mother, rushed into her embrace.
The White Tiger revealed that Yi Mei had once saved her life, and in return for restoring her human form, she had promised to reveal the truth of five hundred years ago. She explained that everything they believed was a lie and that finding the Demon Emperor's Heart was paramount to stopping the growing Netherworld Sea from engulfing the continent.
Although previous searches in the treacherous Peak Valley had failed, the Second Master offered his unique paper cranes, which could scour every corner of the valley. Despite the risk to his dwindling spirit essence, he persisted, and with the White Tiger's aid, who imbued the cranes with her power by dipping them in her blood, they successfully pinpointed the Demon Emperor's Heart's location.
The Second Master, his spirit essence completely depleted, bid a final, heartfelt farewell to Qi Yanran, lamenting his inability to properly accompany his "Young Miss" (Mo Lingzhi) on her last journey, before collapsing. The White Tiger then led Hu Zi, Qi Xiaoxuan, and the others into the core of the Demon Emperor's Heart. There, they witnessed visions of Peak Valley's past, a place of stunning beauty, resembling a fairyland.
The White Tiger revealed that Peak Valley was not the birthplace of demons but the sacred home of Mountain Gods and auspicious animals, divine beings who protected the peace of the Four Seas and sustained all life. She then showed them the arrival of Ancestor Qi Wuji, accompanied by his brother Qi Wushuang and Ye Kongming, seeking a cure for Qi Wushuang's leg ailment. While searching for food, Qi Wuji inadvertently entered the White Tiger's sacred cave.
As a playful challenge, the White Tiger tasked him with plucking hair from the fearsome ancient beast, Taotie, to create a special brush. To her astonishment, Qi Wuji bravely undertook the dangerous task, succeeding where no ordinary human could. The White Tiger used Taotie's hair to craft the renowned Zi Jin Wolf Brush, which would eventually become the revered Eldest Master in the Qi family.
During this time, a deep connection formed between them, symbolized by a token of love Qi Wuji gave her, and the White Tiger revealed the location of the Mountain God Cave, anticipating Qi Wuji's return for their union. Hu Zi, hearing this, realized that Qi Wuji was his true father, a fact that contradicted the Qi family's official genealogy.
The White Tiger recounted how, pregnant with Hu Zi, she later rushed to Twin Mountain to share the news with Qi Wuji. Instead, she found him after he had brutally murdered the Mountain God, whom the world would later mistakenly call the "Demon Emperor." This heinous act unleashed devastating Netherworld Flames from Twin Mountain, first engulfing Peak Valley, then flowing into the sea to create the destructive Netherworld Sea.
Miraculously, the auspicious animals and people suddenly lost their memories, turning on each other in inexplicable violence. A transformed, heartless Qi Wuji then manipulated the confused masses, falsely blaming the White Tiger for the catastrophe. Despite her pleas, she was branded an "evil demon" and attacked.
Shot down by Qi Wuji into the nascent Netherworld Sea, the White Tiger, though severely injured and stripped of her divine power and eight tails by the legendary flames, managed to swim to the mainland. To protect her unborn child, she sealed Hu Zi within herself, spending five hundred years recovering until she could finally give birth to him. This complete, tragic truth revealed Qi Wuji as the true orchestrator of the devastating Netherworld Sea and the architect of the five-century-long deception.
Episode 35 Recap
The truth about the Legendary Sea's expansion began to unfold as it was revealed that Qi Wuji was the true culprit, and the long-held belief that Peak Valley was the birthplace of evil was a deception.
White Tiger admitted that while the exact details of what happened to Qi Wuji in the Mountain God Cave were unknown, he did erase the memories of the people and auspicious animals overnight, perpetuating the false narrative that Qi Wuji was a hero who slayed the Demon Emperor 500 years ago.
Zhao Xintong observed that the Bloody Waterfall was formed by Legendary flames flowing from a spring on the shadowy cliff of Twin Mountain, suggesting that destroying the spring could cut off the source of the Legendary Sea. However, White Tiger explained that this spring, originally the source of the Four Seas, was once protected by the Mountain God using a Phurba.
After the Mountain God's death, the spring transformed into the Legendary Sea, and the Phurba, essential for severing its source, was now in Qi Wuji's possession, making his demonic power even stronger. As the Legendary flames intensified, threatening to engulf the mainland, White Tiger's mother used her remaining essence to temporarily suppress the flames.
She revealed that she had transformed into human form solely to see Hu Zi one last time, expressing her joy at seeing him grown before she peacefully passed away. A grief-stricken Hu Zi was urged by his dying mother to remember his divine lineage as the son of a god, urging him to awaken his latent divine power and fulfill the mission of saving the world. He vowed to clear her name.
Qi Wuji then broke free from his constraints, revealing his demonic form to everyone. He demanded that they kneel before their ancestor and openly admitted his intention to take Qi Xiaoxuan's heart, lamenting that Qi Xiaoxuan only possessed one primordial spirit, making him a less potent "medicinal ingredient." Hu Zi and his companions confronted Qi Wuji, explicitly exposing him as the true Demon Emperor and the actual ancestor of the Qi family.
They revealed that 500 years ago, Peak Valley was not a birthplace of evil but a sacred abode of gods, which Qi Wuji desecrated by killing the Mountain God and contaminating the source of the Four Seas, leading to the Legendary Sea's overflow. He had orchestrated the conflict between humans and auspicious animals through sorcery, and the hero legend of the demon-slaying ancestor was a fabrication designed by Qi Wuji himself. Qi Wuji acknowledged their revelations, stating they were irrelevant.
He confirmed that he had no heart and was cursed, unable to leave Peak Valley without suffering petrification. This was why he devised elaborate traps to lure people there, his true objective being to obtain the heart containing the Qi family's two primordial spirits to escape his confinement. He boasted that with the Phurba, he could summon countless demonic beasts, ensuring their demise and allowing his "hero legend" to persist on the mainland.
He defiantly rejected the idea of Heaven's punishment for his missing heart, declaring that he would reclaim it and restore everything to how it once was. As the battle commenced, Hu Zi and Qi Xiaoxuan directly confronted Qi Wuji, while the other sorcerers engaged the demonic beasts. Hu Zi and Qi Xiaoxuan were quickly overwhelmed and trapped. From behind, Wang Yuqian launched an attack on Qi Wuji, but Qi Wuji, claiming to be an immortal god, was impervious to blades.
Wang Yuqian was struck down, spitting blood, as Qi Wuji mocked his naivety. As Qi Wuji moved to attack Qi Xiaoxuan, Zhao Xintong arrived, freeing Hu Zi and Qi Xiaoxuan. Mortally wounded, Wang Yuqian died in Hu Zi's arms. Before his last breath, the golden lotus planted within him by the Qiling God emerged, providing a protective aura to the sorcerers and aiding them in defeating the demonic beasts, fulfilling his mission to save the world.
Zhao Xintong then managed to obtain the Phurba and threw it to Hu Zi, but in doing so, she was fatally stabbed by Qi Wuji with her own spear. Dying in Hu Zi's embrace, she urged him to take everyone back safely, asking him to plant a seed from her, which she desired to become a tree near the hibiscus tree where he had promised to open a tavern. Hu Zi, heartbroken, watched her pass away.
Qi Xiaoxuan, still reeling from the events, felt a profound internal shift as his primordial spirit activated, making him feel alive again. In a spiritual vision, he met the Mountain God, who revealed the origin of the Qi family's two primordial spirits curse. It was placed by the Mountain God 500 years ago after being slain by the Qi family ancestor.
The curse dictated that whenever twins were born in the Qi family, one would be stillborn, and the two primordial spirits within the survivor would perpetually fight until one emerged victorious, sending the other into endless darkness. The Mountain God explained that Qi Xiaoxuan's elder brother, Yan, had willingly sacrificed himself, ending the internal conflict of the two primordial spirits within Qi Xiaoxuan. This act ended the curse entirely, which was in fact a test that contained infinite divine power.
Now that Qi Xiaoxuan had passed this test, his divine power was fully awakened, manifesting as wings on his back. With his newfound divine powers, Qi Xiaoxuan confronted Qi Wuji, declaring that the curse was indeed caused by Qi Wuji but would end with him. He stated that the 500 years of sin were finally coming to an end.
Qi Wuji, however, refused to accept his defeat, desperately proclaiming that he could not die, and denying the concept of sin or justice. Joined by Hu Zi, who wielded the Phurba and had also awakened his divine powers as the son of a god, they prepared for the final strike against Qi Wuji.
Combining their powers, resembling the White Tiger and Twin Cranes, Hu Zi plunged the Phurba into Qi Wuji's chest, while Qi Xiaoxuan also struck him, finally vanquishing the long-standing antagonist. Despite Qi Wuji's demise, his immense resentment enveloped the entire Peak Valley, preventing the resolution of the Legendary Sea crisis. Recognizing that the lingering malevolence needed to be addressed, Hu Zi and Qi Xiaoxuan decided to enter Qi Wuji's body to understand the source of his resentment.
They found themselves transported to the Qi Mansion from 500 years ago, witnessing the difficult birth of Qi Wuji and his twin brother, Qi Wushuang. Their mother endured a prolonged labor, and after Qi Wuji was born healthy, she delivered Qi Wushuang, who was born with severe disabilities and a "bad omen" mark on his face. The midwife, horrified, declared him a jinx, and their mother died shortly after his birth.
Blamed for his mother's death, Qi Wushuang was immediately deemed a "jinx" and taken away, confined and mistreated, with only his elder brother, Qi Wuji, showing him compassion and secretly bringing him food and comforting him. Qi Wuji promised to find a doctor for Qi Wushuang's legs and take him to see the world. Hu Zi and Qi Xiaoxuan were astonished by Qi Wushuang's tragic childhood, realizing the profound suffering that must have fueled Qi Wuji's transformation into a demon.
Episode 36 (Ending) Recap
Master Qi, ill and bedridden, cruelly ordered his ten-year-old son, Qi Wushuang, to be abandoned outside their family home, blaming the boy for his mother's death and his own illness. Servants, following these harsh commands, left Qi Wushuang to fend for himself against a pack of ferocious wolves. Fortunately, Qi Wuji arrived just in time, shielding his younger brother.
Qi Wuji apologized to Wushuang for failing to protect him and declared to their father that if Wushuang were cast out, he would leave with him. He comforted Wushuang, promising to heal his legs so they could travel the entire world together. For the first time, Wushuang experienced warmth and hope, contrasting with the harshness he had known since birth.
Qi Wuji then confronted his father, who vehemently disowned Wushuang, labeling him a "scourge" who had brought nothing but misfortune to the Qi family. Qi Wuji firmly defended Wushuang as his brother, refusing to give up on him. Determined to find a cure for Wushuang's legs, Qi Wuji decided to leave home and seek a legendary divine island, Peak Valley, rumored to hold remedies for incurable diseases. On their journey from a small town's dock, they met Ye Kongming.
She purchased an accessory for a doll, and Hu Zi and Qi Xiaoxuan recognized the doll itself as the true form of Yi Mei. Ye Kongming expressed her desire to join their arduous journey to the legendary divine island, insisting she could help Qi Wuji care for Wushuang, despite Qi Wuji's reservations about the dangers ahead for a young woman. As they continued, they encountered a disturbing sight: numerous sick individuals.
Among them was Wang Qianyu, who introduced himself as the founding emperor of Qianyu State. Hu Zi and Qi Xiaoxuan also noted Wang Qianyu's striking resemblance to Wang Yuqian. He explained that a rapidly spreading epidemic, causing fever, fatigue, and death within three months, was ravaging several towns and threatened to engulf the entire continent. Wang Qianyu himself had fallen ill and could no longer journey to the divine island.
He humbly pleaded with Qi Wuji and Ye Kongming to seek medicine for the suffering people on the island. Qi Wuji, in turn, reassured the desperate crowd that he would indeed seek an elixir from the deities once they reached the divine island. Finally, the group arrived at Peak Valley, a place Qi Wushuang had only heard of in legends. Upon arrival, Ye Kongming was deeply saddened to discover that Qi Wuji and Baihu (White Tiger) were in love.
There, Qi Wushuang sensed Ye Kongming's distress, who confessed the pain of unrequited love. Misunderstanding her words, Qi Wushuang, who had developed feelings for Ye Kongming due to her perceived kindness, bravely confessed his affection, noting her uniqueness and how she, unlike others, did not shun him. However, Ye Kongming immediately rejected his advances, bluntly stating that her affection and care were solely for Qi Wuji, his brother, and not for Wushuang himself.
She admitted she only approached him because she wanted to be with Qi Wuji. This devastating revelation intensified Wushuang's deep-seated feelings of abandonment and loneliness, a sentiment noted by Hu Zi. Despite this profound emotional blow, Qi Wuji continued to reassure Wushuang that everything would get better and that he could change his own destiny. Together, they finally reached the Mountain God.
Qi Wuji first pleaded for the healing of his brother's legs, then, moved by compassion, also requested the Mountain God to save the people suffering from the epidemic. The Mountain God, acknowledging Qi Wuji as the only one to wish for the common people, offered him a single choice: heal Wushuang's legs or eradicate the epidemic. Without hesitation, Qi Wuji chose to eradicate the epidemic. This decision shattered Qi Wushuang. Feeling utterly betrayed and abandoned, he cried out, "Why?
Why did you abandon me too? You lied to me! You all lied to me!" Overwhelmed by hatred for his fate, his crippled legs, and everyone around him, Wushuang's immense resentment caused him to transform from a human into a fearsome demon. He seized the Phurba, slew the Mountain God, then mercilessly consumed Qi Wuji's body and soul, taking on his brother's form.
Proclaiming himself the world's only god, Qi Wushuang, now the Demon Emperor, unleashed a torrent of destructive legendary flames, transforming the Peak Valley into the desolate Netherworld Sea. Hu Zi and Qi Xiaoxuan finally understood the profound source of Qi Wushuang's five centuries of resentment. They confronted him, explaining that while he saw the evil inflicted upon him, he failed to see the devastating consequences of his actions for the world.
They challenged his assertion that Qi Wuji had abandoned him, proposing a re-enactment of the fateful choice. In this recreated moment, Qi Wuji once again prioritized the common people, but this time, he added a heartfelt promise to his brother: he would still find a way to heal Wushuang's legs, even if it meant sacrificing his own, and would be Wushuang's legs until then.
Hearing these words, Wushuang's heart, burdened for five hundred years, was finally unburdened, and his resentment vanished like the wind. With the resentment dispelled, Hu Zi and Qi Xiaoxuan used their divine powers to purify the legendary flames, causing the waters of the Netherworld Sea to clear. Far away in Fulong Bay, soldiers and common people cheered joyfully as they witnessed the purification of the sea.
With Peak Valley restored to its former glory, Hu Zi chose to remain there, dedicating himself to guarding the spirits of the heroes who had fallen. He bid a heartfelt farewell to Qi Xiaoxuan, Xiao Yunzi, and the others as they boarded the Chenghuang, acknowledging the vast distance and uncertain future of their reunion. Back on the mainland, Changdaqiong and the Jinhua sisters trio became pillars of the Royal Sorcerer corps for Fulong State.
Qi Yanran continued to honor her grandmother's memory, while Wu Lidan placed Zhao Xintong's memorial tablet in the Yangming Hall. Cheng Jinian and Ya were together, with Ya rigorously pushing Cheng Jinian through training. An elderly fortuneteller, using runes, told Qi Xiaoxuan that his story with Hu Zi was not yet over, and they would surely meet again. She also mentioned that while Peak Valley could grant any wish, it was difficult to find, though people were already recruiting to embark on new voyages to seek it.
