The Story in 3 Sentences

Han Li, a mortal with an unremarkable spiritual root, claws his way through the cultivation world not by talent, but by caution, cunning, and relentless survival instinct.

After ascending to the Immortal Realm, he loses his memories and power, rebuilding from nothing—mastering the Law of Time, joining the Candle Dragon Dao, and confronting ancient Dao Ancestors.

He cuts off his three corpses to reach Da Luo, defeats the Chaos Dao Ancestor, and ultimately chooses seclusion over dominion—proving true immortality lies not in rule, but in freedom.

Why It Stands Out

1. The Prudent Protagonist — A Rare Archetype

Han Li doesn’t charge into battle. He observes, plans, and survives. Unlike typical overpowered MCs, he: Hides his strength Fights only when victory is certain Values talismans, escape routes, and resources over glory “Better ten years of hiding than one second of recklessness.” This survival-first mindset makes his rise feel earned, not inevitable.

2. A Realistic, Grueling Cultivation System

The path to immortality is long and brutal: Mortal Realm: Qi Condensation → Foundation Establishment → Core Formation → Nascent Soul → Deity Transformation → Void Refinement → Integration → Mahayana Immortal Realm: True Immortal → Golden Immortal → Grand Unity → Grand Luo → Dao Ancestor. Each breakthrough risks heart demons, celestial tribulations, or fatal miscalculations. Progress takes centuries—no shortcuts, only patience and preparation.

3. The Law of Time — One of the Supreme Laws

Han Li’s mastery of time becomes his ultimate edge. Through the Mantra Wheel Sutra and Time Dao Pill, he: Slows or accelerates time in combat Reconstructs shattered realms Influences fate and reincarnation This isn’t just a skill—it’s a cosmic advantage few can comprehend.

Characters That Leave a Mark

There’s Han Li — not a chosen one, but a cold, calculating survivor. His power comes not from destiny, but from relentless discipline. He seeks not fame, but safety and autonomy.

You’ll meet Nangong Wan, who begins as a Daoist companion and equal. After recovering her past, she reaches Da Luo. Their reunion after millennia is quiet, yet profound.

Then there’s Qi Lingzi, not just a mysterious elder, but the Reincarnation Hall Lord tied to Han Li’s fate and the Palm Heavenly Bottle. His sacrifice alters destiny, revealing deep cosmic ties.

And Zi Ling? She’s the one who chooses loyalty without dependence — a loyal ally who leaves to grow stronger, mirroring Han Li’s belief: no one is a burden.

And the Golden Boy? She’s the one who defies form and expectation — a mythical beast in a child’s body, devouring spiritual energy and fighting beside Han Li through every era.

The Flaws Fans Debate

Pacing: Over 3,000 chapters. Mid-series arcs can feel repetitive: gather, hide, breakthrough, escape.

Romance: Subtle and understated. Some praise the lack of harem tropes; others miss deeper emotional beats.

Power Scaling: The leap to Da Luo via three corpse-cutting rituals is immense and abstract.

Ending: Han Li retires in peace—a quiet close that feels earned, but underwhelming to some.

Must-Experience Arcs

Vol. I: The Heavenly South Region – Han Li’s early struggles, resource gathering, and slow rise in the mortal world.

Vol. II: The Inhuman Realm – His journey to the Spirit World, mastering new techniques and surviving deadly trials.

Vol. III: The Immortal Realm – Memory loss, rebirth, and re-entry into the cosmic hierarchy. Joining the Candle Dragon Dao begins his true ascent.

Vol. IV: The Chaos World – Escaping the Gray Realm, battling the Dao Ancestor of Space, and advancing toward Da Luo.

Vol. V: The Great Way Returns to One – The final war against the Chaos Dao Ancestor, the fall of an ancient evil, and Han Li’s quiet withdrawal from power.

Killer Quotes

“In the world of cultivation, there is no good or bad, only strength.”

“Of course it is to take you away! I want you to become my wife! No matter who it is that wishes to take away the one I cherish, they will have to go through me first!”

Cultural Impact

Originally by Wang Yu, this xianxia masterpiece redefined the genre.

Praised for its realistic, slow-burn progression—no instant power-ups, just strategy and survival.

Inspired countless “prudent protagonist” stories. Adapted into manhua and audio dramas, with a global fanbase.

“Han Li style” is now synonymous with quiet mastery and underdog resilience.

Final Verdict

Start Here If You Want:

A protagonist who wins with strategy, not brute force

A detailed, believable cultivation system

A journey that feels earned, not handed

Study If You Love:

The “slow burn” to godhood

Time manipulation and cosmic laws

Survival-driven storytelling

Avoid If You Prefer:

Fast-paced action without buildup

Overpowered, flashy heroes

Minimalist world-building or comedy-heavy tone