Definition
A cultivator who serves a stronger master in exchange for resources, protection, and access to training and teachings.
Retainer
A cultivator who serves a stronger master in exchange for resources, protection, and access to training and teachings.
Story context
Welcome back, fellow cultivators! Chapter 153 marks a major crossroad for Ji Ning as he finally sets his sights on the legendary Black-White College. This isn’t just another sect visit—it’s the moment where our young genius, fresh off his world-shaking Zifu breakthrough, begins to truly understand the scale of the world he’s stepping into. From learning about the miraculous Black-White Millstone Diagram to getting a first-hand taste of the politics and grudges within the Anchan Beishan clan, this chapter is a masterclass in building anticipation. And if that weren’t enough, we get a tantalizing glimpse of ancient Fiendgod capture operations and a new rival who already looks down on our boy. Buckle up—the real game is about to begin, and the college might be the one place that can keep pace with Ji Ning’s monstrous talent.
Why it matters
This chapter is all about **shifting gears**. Ji Ning is mentally leaving the small pond of his home territory and sizing up the vast ocean of the Grand Xia. Watch how quickly he pivots to asking the right questions and making a firm decision once he sees the Millstone Diagram—this is the same ruthlessly pragmatic, goal-oriented mind that got him through the Zifu tribulation. His calm response to Beishan Xuantang’s condescension is also a clear sign of his Dao Heart; he doesn’t waste energy on anger, he just notes the challenge and moves on.
Quick facts
Source novel
Desolate Era
First appearance
The Black-White College Beckons
Chapter references
6
Type hints
Black-White College, Black-White Millstone Diagram, Anchan City
Guide tags
Worldbuilding, Sect Introduction, Political Maneuvering
Appears in chapters
Jump back into the novel from the exact chapter references used to build this glossary page.
Chapter 153
The Black-White College Beckons
Ji Ning learns of the legendary Black-White Millstone Diagram, meets a condescending rival, and decides that the Black-White College is where he will rise.
Chapter 158
The Darknorth Peak
Ji Ning officially becomes a Black-White College disciple, earns a peak of his own, and gives away nine of ten retainer slots to Beishan Baiwei—keeping one for a wounded friend.
Chapter 159
The Black-White Diagram Unveiled
Ji Ning settles into the Black-White College, negotiates retainer slots with Beishan Baiwei, and gets his first look at the legendary Black-White Diagram – a dangerous treasure that even Celestial Immortals covet.
Chapter 172
Retainers, Rivals, and the Fallen Genius
Ji Ning prepares for the old disciples' retaliation while receiving his new retainers. But his compassion reaches out to a fallen comrade—Meng Yan, whose cultivation is forever broken.
Chapter 183
The Sincere Sword Heart
Ji Ning takes in his crippled friend Meng Yan as a retainer. Then, his master reveals the true nature of the Dao of the Sword: a path of application, sincerity, and an unwavering heart.
Chapter 399
The Missing Brother
Ji Ning returns to the Black-White College, only to learn his sworn brother Mu Northson has been missing for over twenty years with his Dao-companion dead. A quiet but devastating chapter of reunions and loss.
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