Brief Summary
This episode of "Tale of Herding God" centers on the clash between traditional and innovative approaches to martial arts and cultivation. The Imperial Advisor's lectures inspire new perspectives and techniques, leading to a contest between Qin Mu from the Imperial Academy and Lin Xuan from the Daoist Sect. Qin Mu's victory highlights the potential of the new methods, but also raises questions about the future of talent development and the role of established sects.
- The Imperial Advisor introduces innovative sword techniques that challenge traditional forms.
- A contest of doctrine ensues between Qin Mu and Lin Xuan, representing the Imperial Academy and the Daoist Sect, respectively.
- Qin Mu's victory signifies the potential of the Imperial Advisor's teachings, but also sparks debate about the value of traditional methods and the cultivation of true talent.
Intro
The episode is adapted from "Tale of Herding God" by Zhaizhu, and the story is entirely fictional. The episode is titled "Young Sect Leader and the Daoist." The intro includes a call to action for viewers to like, comment, and subscribe to support the series.
Imperial Advisor's Teachings
The Imperial Advisor lectures on the Wandering Sword Style, emphasizing adaptability and freedom from fixed forms. He suggests that this approach can reshape not only swordsmanship but also all battle tactics, potentially ushering in a new era. Danyangzi notes the Imperial Advisor's exceptional talent and influence, recalling that the Daoist Master hoped he would become a sage. However, Danyangzi also expresses concern that the Imperial Advisor might turn to evil, destroy the sects, and spread the teachings of the Heavenly Demon Sect, posing a threat to the righteous path.
Critique of the Imperial Academy
Danyangzi questions the effectiveness of the Imperial Academy's approach, suggesting that while it offers more opportunities for cultivation, it may stifle true talent. He argues that the uniformity of the scholars' skills, like "mooncakes made from the same mold," hinders the spark of talent necessary for Mystic Arts to grow. Danyangzi implies that the Daoist Sect will oppose the Imperial Advisor if he cannot recognize the value and purpose of the existing sects.
Drilling Sword Style and Reflections
The Imperial Advisor demonstrates the Drilling Sword Style, which focuses on rapid spinning of the sword tip to break through defenses. Meanwhile, the Cowherd is seen sleepwalking and diligently cultivating, inspiring others to learn from his dedication. The Imperial Advisor expresses his intention to resign from office, stating that he doesn't have long to live and doesn't care for power. He tells the Grand Libationer that only one or two scholars grasped his swordsmanship.
Patriarch's Perspective
The Patriarch acknowledges the Imperial Advisor's solid foundation and his ability to think the unthinkable. He admits that he still has much to learn, emphasizing that while learning has limits, creativity is limitless. The Patriarch invited the Imperial Advisor to impart doctrine and encourages Qin Mu to challenge the Imperial Advisor if he must, but to respect his mystic arts and not limit his vision.
Contest of Doctrine Begins
Qin Mu from the Imperial Academy and Lin Xuan from the Daoist Sect introduce themselves and prepare to engage in a contest of doctrine. Qin Mu is at the Five Luminaries Realm, while Lin Xuan is at the Liuhe Realm but has sealed his Liuhe Divine Treasury to match Qin Mu's level. They agree to use only Vital Energy and no weapons.
Coiling Sword Style vs. Foundational Sword Technique
Qin Mu uses the new Coiling Sword Style created by the Imperial Advisor, which is unpredictable. Lin Xuan responds with the Daoist Sect's Foundational Sword Technique, Fourteen Chapters of the Daoist Sword, wielding the Celestial Cycle with righteous sword intent. His skill in Arithmancy is highlighted as he divides the two polarities with complex calculations.
God-Slaying Sword Art
Qin Mu uses the God-Slaying Sword Art, which he learned from Grandpa Village Chief. He explains that one must hold no god in their heart to become a god and slay a god. Lin Xuan traces Qin Mu's sword aura and identifies his left shoulder as a fatal weakness.
Qin Mu's Victory and Aftermath
Qin Mu defeats Lin Xuan by exploiting his focus on Qin Mu's left shoulder. Lin Xuan admits defeat and acknowledges that his swordsmanship falls short of Qin Mu's. The Daoist Sect leaves the Imperial Academy, and the scholars celebrate the victory. However, Baishan points out that the victory was due to the Imperial Advisor's lecture and not their own efforts, emphasizing the need for a long journey to shape true geniuses.
Daoist Sect's Unique Seal and Divine Treasury
The episode explains the Wheel Sigil, the Daoist Sect's unique seal inspired by Zhuangzi's "Heavenly Way," and the concept of sealing Divine Treasury for fair duels. It also describes the various realms of cultivation, including Spirit Embryo, Five Luminaries, Liuhe, Seven Stars, Celestial Being, Life-Death, and Divine Bridge.
