Yang Qianhuan, determined to defeat the Buddhist manifestation, engages in battle but fails miserably after several rounds. Humiliated and covered in dirt, he storms off to confront the Supervisor at the Si Tianjian, only to be unceremoniously thrown out for his incessant complaints.
The Grand Gathering
A few days later, Xu Pingzhi receives an invitation to attend the prestigious duel gathering, an opportunity rarely extended to someone of his low rank. Excited, he brings his entire family to the banquet. At the event, Xu Pingzhi’s wife encounters Lady Xiuhe, who had previously mocked the Xu family during Xu Qi’an’s imprisonment. Now, seeing Xu Pingzhi’s family seated in more prominent positions, Xiuhe’s smug demeanor evaporates, and her face turns green with envy.
For Xu Pingzhi, this is the first time meeting prominent court officials, including Wei Yuan. Seizing the chance to build connections, he eagerly offers tea to Wei Yuan, but Wei Yuan merely responds with a polite smile, prompting Xu Pingzhi to retreat in embarrassment.
Meanwhile, Xu Qi’an’s youngest sister, Lingyue, sneaks under Wei Yuan’s table, drawn by the array of fruits and candied snacks. Charmed by her innocence and cuteness, Wei Yuan lifts her onto his lap and begins peeling fruit for her. Seeing this, Xu Pingzhi grows nervous about his daughter’s boldness, but his eldest daughter reassures him, pointing out Wei Yuan’s fondness for Xu Qi’an and his likely tolerance for the family.
Strategic Seating and Rising Tensions
The seating arrangements, thoughtfully designed by Wang Simo, place Wang Zhenwen’s table near Xu Pingzhi’s. Seizing the opportunity, Xu Pingzhi approaches Wang Zhenwen, naively asking which guest is the Grand Secretary and boldly suggesting that his son would make a great match for the Grand Secretary’s daughter. Wang Zhenwen, experienced in courtly matters, is both amused and bemused by Xu Pingzhi’s straightforwardness.
As the crowd outside grows restless, eagerly anticipating the duel, the tension in the air intensifies. Xu Qi’an feels the weight of the city’s expectations, knowing that failure would bring shame upon himself and his family. Fortunately, Lin’an is present to offer support, gifting him a collection of poetry and advising him to recite verses during the duel to project confidence. Taking her advice to heart, Xu Qi’an steps onto the stage, reciting poetry with poise. His composure and charisma captivate the audience, who cheer him on with enthusiasm.
Xu Qi’an Faces the Manifestation
Upon approaching the manifestation, Xu Qi’an is pulled into an illusionary realm. In this alternate reality, he experiences an entire lifetime in modern society, from being a crying infant to enduring a failed romantic relationship during high school, a midlife filled with overwhelming pressure, and finally a frail old age on his deathbed.
Within this vision, a voice questions him about the meaning of life and whether his existence holds any value.
Though aged and weary, Xu Qi’an affirms that life is meaningful, despite its failures and sorrows. He realizes that the essence of life lies in the experiences themselves—the joys, struggles, and lessons that make up the journey. This revelation strengthens his resolve.
Cliffhanger
As Xu Qi’an emerges from the illusion, the manifestation looms before him, its immense energy pressing down like a mountain. The gathered crowd holds its breath, waiting to see if Xu Qi’an can truly accomplish the impossible.
