Overall, this opening did its job. It introduced the protagonist, the stakes, the world, and a bunch of hooks. I want to know what happens next. The writing could use a little polish in places, but the pacing and character decisions kept me reading.
Mu Fenghua’s past life backstory about sacrificing herself with the remaining cultivators to save mortals and her spirit pets seals her as a hero for me. The reason she’s so desperate to cultivate again—to awaken her spirit pets from their deep sleep—adds an emotional layer that goes beyond just survival. She’s fighting for her family, both her new mother and brother and her old companions. The way she views her brother as having potential but needing discipline shows her maturity and hope. I really want to see her spirit pets later.
I like that the writing doesn't shy away from gross details. The pig manure, the blood at the stall, the "puddles of urine" insult—it makes the story feel grounded. Sometimes historical stuff is too sanitized, but this is gritty in a fun way.