Old He's statement that "the Immortal Children never returned" after being taken by Taoists makes me think of organ harvesting or human experimentation. The red-robed woman's mention of "Elder's immortal technique progress" where people are needed as sacrifices? That's dark and intriguing. It moves the story away from typical cultivation into survival horror territory. I'm all for it. Gives the narrative stakes beyond just "getting stronger."
1 can we talk about Liang Yuxin? She’s the sister we all need. She instantly defends Xie Fanxing, calls her brother out for his stupidity, and even spills the truth about the wine. In a sea of terrible men and mean women, she’s the loyal girl best friend. I hope she gets her own side-plot later because her blunt personality has great comic relief and drama potential. She’s also the voice of reason which balances the heavy angst.
I’m glad the story doesn’t shy away from Gu Qingyin’s flaws. She acknowledges that her argument with Huo Yunjing was partly her fault—she left without telling him, didn’t contact him, and ended up trapped. That self-awareness makes her more likeable. She’s not a victim; she’s a person who made a bad call. And when she says she doesn’t have deep feelings for Huo Yunjing, it feels honest rather than cold. She’s practical about her heart. I can respect that even if I want more romance.