EPISODE CONTEXT

Coming off Episode 137's focus on Shi Hao's captivity and rescue efforts, Episode 138 broadens the lens to the inter-sect political fallout from those events, showing how the wider world of factions is reacting. Sitting roughly at the midpoint of the series at episode 138 of 286, this is a pivotal bridge episode that transitions from personal conflict to large-scale factional tension. It directly sets up Episode 139, "Reunion with Qingyi," where the story narrows back down to personal relationships and alliances forged against this political backdrop.