Definition
A classic Chinese idiom describing a chain of predation where a hunter is about to be hunted by a hidden, greater power; the structural principle of this chapter.
Mantis
A classic Chinese idiom describing a chain of predation where a hunter is about to be hunted by a hidden, greater power; the structural principle of this chapter.
Story context
Remember how the Nascent Soul big shots agreed to a temporary truce to avoid a disastrous free-for-all before the Void Heaven Cauldron is even in sight? Well, surprise, surprise—that “truce” lasts about as long as it takes for a Core Formation cultivator to annoy Man Brutal Beard. This chapter is a masterclass in the Mortal Stream’s toxic ecosystem: the absolute power gap, the casual slaughter of the weak, the arcane political chess game being played overhead, and our guy Han Li stuck in the middle, running silent calculations while everyone else treats him like furniture.
Why it matters
This chapter is essentially Han Li being shown multiple high-level cards from different hands, none of which he can play. Man Brutal Beard, the Three Yang Old Devil, the Profound Bone Saint’s unknown patron, the hidden Star Palace elders—every one of these is a massive, terrifying piece on the board that Han Li can only observe and file away for future reference.
Quick facts
Source novel
A Record Of A Mortal S Journey To Immortality
First appearance
Stirring the Seas Abroad. The Mantis, the Oriole.
Chapter references
1
Type hints
a record of a mortal's journey to immortality, rmji, chapter 481
Guide tags
A Record of a Mortal's Journey to Immortality, xianxia, rmji
Appears in chapters
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