#tgcf season 2 episode 9

[peacesmovingcabaret]

Hua Cheng using his powers to freeze Xie Lian in place while he beats a confession out of Qi Rong,

“Xie Lian. Honey. Sweetie. Light of my life. I love you so much, but right now I need you to shut up and let me handle this!”

[huachengdaddy]

To be honest I feel a little for Qi Rong.

Like, imagine: you're minding your own evil business in your own evil lair and then two people you absolutely despise break into your house, steal your dinner and THEN they take turns beating the shit out of you as means of bonding romantically.

I would be mad too.

[yeyayeya]

I’m back! Well, not necessarily, but I’m on the road back home. I am mentally exhausted, but my break back in Mexico was fun! I won’t exactly get back to posting normally, but I will in a few days

[robosimp]

I edited this picture out of hatred. I am DEEPLY unsatisfied with his lipstick. I know that bad taste is literally one of the main character tropes for Qi Rong but NOT THE FUCKING PURPLE LIPSTICK. Oh, and what was the problem with giving him sharp teeth? NO, those pathetic fangs DOES NOT COUNT. HIS TEETH MUST BE SHARP. ALL OF THEM. AND NO FUCKING LIPSTICK

Also questions about his light hair colour and WRONG shades of green in his outfit in general. WTF IS EVEN THAT I KNOW THAT HE IS TASTELESS BUT IT DOESNT MEAN THAT THOSE WHO DESIGNED HIM FOR DONGHUA SHOULD AS WELL BE

I refuse to believe that I am the only one unsatisfied with this ugly lipstick and absence of sharp teeth.

Also I will edit more screenshots

And it’s not a hate post, I love Qi Rong since l discovered him in 2019

[missveryvery]

Tgcf Season 2 ep 9 donghua:

I thought the animation in 8 was pretty rough but it's excellent here. I think because half the episode is just talking, mostly still shots with mouths moving, so while qi rong rolls around they could focus on making his expressions and rolling around really good. His facial expressions were so fucking good?!? Their whole budget was animating his overly complicated outfit and make up. He's so pretty?!?!!

The flashback with Lang Qianqiu! With his precious little friend!!!

I love him! He's so cute! "I'll remind him to be good ._.!!" And he DOES ;0;!

I would die for him. I can't believe how much screen time they're giving him whereas An Le is like "yeah there was this other dude around too we didn't mention before".

Ok I think they won't give us a name at this point so it's up to us to name him!

What about Wushuang for a given name? Since Qianqiu is "Thousand Autumns", we could name his little friend after another Meng Xi Shi novel like Peerless? For a family name...idk, Yan? Yan Wushuang?

NEVERMIND IT'S XIAO SHIWEI NOW

[mochithewondercat]

Life hack: Play tgcf season 1 episode 2. Go to 9:16 exactly. Play Ex-Wives from six. You will not be disappointed.

[fallloverfic]

TGCF donghua Season 2, Episode 9 thoughts

This episode T-T Very good ep. Spoilers for the show and the book below.

Qi Rong looks really pretty aldkjaldja I mean yes, he looks like Xie Lian, duh, but also alkdjal he just looks pretty <.< I really like his braided hair :3 I think they did a good job making the two of them similar enough without being identical. It's the little things like his hair style and mouth movements that sell it.

The gentle Xie Lian hand touch on Hua Cheng's back T-T

Hua Cheng like no I am not stopping because there is an injustice here that is hurting you and I refuse to let it slide even if I have to hurt you to do it.

They really got across Hua Cheng's rage at Qi Rong really well. Like obviously he spent last episode beating Qi Rong up and he's doing that again here, duh, but it's just... there's a lot of stuff they do with Hua Cheng's other movements and expressions that's just really excellent.

Okay the angry budaoweng Lang Qianqiu crawling out of Xie Lian's robes and jumping on the ground next to writhing Qi Rong just... the animation is so good. It's a really good-looking scene.

Distracted by Qi Rong bein pretty.

Xie Lian insisting on keeping up the partial lie because it's better than the whole truth T-T

Qi Rong looks so happy to discover it's Xie Lian! His cousin! And of course it's really because he's making the connection between Fangxin and Xie Lian, but like... for a moment you can think about the little boy who loved his cousin who came to his rescue, and idolized him.

Qi Rong's laughter is animated really well. I just love all the details when the characters are all standing together.

Another gentle Xie Lian on Hua Cheng hand touch T-T He really doesn't want Hua Cheng to dirty his hands dealing with Qi Rong. Am I thinking about Qi Rong being used to bullies and scorn and unsurprised this last family member turned their back on him, it's just normal, nope, not at all.

I do like the way Qi Rong's hair pillows over his jacket collar.

aslkdjaldj Qi Rong rolling over in laughter is just alkjdalj

I love this terrible man your honor. Love him.

Xie Lian fightin his own fights against Qi Rong. Love him. I love Hua Cheng always going to Xie Lian's defense and honestly nothing that Xie Lian doesn't typically defend himself (for various reasons), but really, Xie Lian just keeps himself in reserve a lot. He can dish it out as he pleases. The first thing to know about any weapon is when not to use it. And Xie Lian does love his weapons.

Hua Cheng watching Xie Lian slap Qi Rong: -new kink unlocked-

(I mean he's always been into Xie Lian hitting people but the way they framed Hua Cheng's awed expression while the dramatic theme plays made me lol)

Xie Lian... not... stoppin Hua Cheng slowly step towards Qi Rong this time... >:3 (this entire episode is so fun with movement, just love it so much)

I truly love that Xie Lian, who is generally viewed as weak by just about everyone, does not even remotely view Lang Qianqiu as a martial rival. Like he is not even remotely intimidated by this guy. He knows Lang Qianqiu's abilities, that he's a full on god with a lot of power (unlike Xie Lian, who's wearing two cursed shackles). But Xie Lian can and will still take him on. Not using power doesn't make you weak. Knowing when and how to properly use it is what matters, and that's a theme throughout the story, but this episode/arc in particular.

roflmao what did Hua Cheng do to Qi Rong before stepping off of him. Qi Rong's Chinese VA is doing a great job.

Aww the Hualian animal masks. With matching red pearl earrings. Cute.

Xie Lian catching the plates just alkjdlaj That straight left leg. Love him.

I also still really love how much of Fangxin's outfit is butterflies.

Qi Rong comin in to spoil everything :/ Terrible man. Love him tho.

Also I didn't realize but a couple episodes ago the ending credits animation changed a little, and it's very pretty!

A wonderful episode! Had some more bad English sub moments, but it wasn't the worst. The beautiful animation, character movements, little character moments and interactions, everything happening just... It was really good. Loved it.

Also wanna boost this really good post-coffin scene Hualian fic I read ages ago.

Other episode thoughts for season 2 (didn't start till episode 3):

S02E03

S02E04

S02E05

S02E06

S02E07

S02E08

S02E09 (you are here)

S02E10

S02E11

S02E12

[sidecharactersdomatter]

Thoughts I had during TGCF S1 Ep 9

-Previously on TGCF…

-He’s gonna jump into the pit, he’s jumping into the pit, he jumped into the pit! (My quick recap of the previous Ep, also slight Flushed Away reference if you squint)

-Wait, one of the Ban Yue soldiers put Tian Sheng down while watching San Lang seemingly sacrifice himself into the pit

-Welp this confirms Xie Lian is pretty ride or die

-Kemo caught him

-Xie Lian’s like: Well I am going down there, but I won’t go down alone!

-Thanks Ruoye

-She’s awake

-She freed herself

-There go the Ban Yue soldiers

-Dang Kemo is strong

-Well Xie Lian wasn’t wrong

-The pit’s entrance is sealed!

-*Gasps!*  This scene people!

-Trust fall!  TRUST FALL!  (I told you it was gonna happen in this ep, told ya~!)

-Yes he caught his man

-Is that the same guy from Mt. Yujun?

-Oh San Lang is so secretly touch starved people!  I am weak in the knees!

-Xie Lian: Thank goodness.  Alright, put me down.  San Lang: No.  Valid San Lang *nods and smiles*

-Oooh he brought him in closer!!!! AAAAAHHH!!!

-He touched his throat!

-So many dead Ban Yue people

-There’s your answer Xie Lian

-So much blood

-Ooooh Dance fight!  Dance fight!

-You go San Lang respectfully manhandle Xie Lian like a boss!

-Oooh right in Kemo’s face

-Yeah San Lang would totally carry him all day

-Hi E Ming  (I’ve seen the first three episodes of Season 2, remember)

-E Ming:  I’ll handle him master, go support your man!

-More dance fighting!

-Woah how was San Lang able to do all of that???

-Woah Woah wait Xie Lian, you’re just gonna excuse the mass murder San Lang committed in the pit?????

-He’s asking if you know he’s a ghost, man

-Woah Xie Lian has good standards people, and he respects boundaries

-And now Xie Lian helps out in the fight

-There’s a way out of the pit???

-Let me just find somewhere that isn’t covered in blood

-Oh yeah you’re grateful for San Lang carrying you

-There’s San Lang

-Oooh he stopped him from falling again!

-Thank you San Lang

-San Lang’s so protective

-Yeah the murdering part was all San Lang man

-The faces they made when he called them out for jumping into the pit XD Xie Lian’s eyes are wide and blank while San Lan has a cat face! XDXDXDXDXD

-The noise that’s made when their faces returned to normal XD

-Oooh that’s a good bargain

-Oh backstory on the Ban Yue perceptor

-Real parent of the year award

-Her poor mother did not deserve it

-They really do look like they’re from an ancient Islamic time

-We never get to see any other spells the state perceptor uses other than those violet slashes and the scorpion tailed cobras

-Aww Kemo had sympathy for her

-I think that made it worse

-Uh oh!  A cave in and a sandstorm!

-She saved them

-That explains a lot

-Oh she looks so sad as an imperial perceptor

-That sounds bad

-That explains the betrayal

-She came down!

Episode 9 lowkey fed us Capiche?  3 Eps left to react to!

[reivanteal]

Reincarnate Into #HeavenOfficialsBlessing

Have you ever thought about reincarnating into TGCF/Heaven Official's Blessing? Now's your chance!

Mr. Truck is ready for your express ride. Just comment below what your results are.

[Spoilers ONLY thru S2 E1 of donghua; nothing further in books. I'm trying to keep this spoiler free with only the donghua content shared. I'm working on another TGCF book based one with all the spoilers if people are interested.]

Time to Reincarnate!

Your phone's battery % says who:

0% Xie Lian

1-8% Shi Qingxuan

9-12% Feng Xin

12-16% Mu Qing

17-26% Lan Qianqiu

27-34% Ling Wen

35-38% Jun Wu

39-46% Pei Ming

47-56% Pei Xiu

57-60% Fu Yao

61-70% Ban Yue

71-75% Ming Yi

76-85% Lan Chang

86-89% Nan Feng

90-99% Xuan Ji

100% Hua Cheng

Your weather says when:

Snowy: Season 1, Episodes 1-3

Windy: Season 1, Episodes 4-5

Cloudy: Season 1, Episodes 6-8

Stormy: Season 1, Episodes 9-11

Rainy: Season 1, Episode 12

Sunny: Season 2, Episode 1

Note: I had to work in some fengqing among all the lovely hualian

Mr. Truck is sending you off with a bonus based on the time of day for you:

00:01-06:00 Can Tell No One

06:01-12:00 System Assistant

12:01-18:00 Must Keep Story Intact

18:01-24:00 Hero/Villain Flags

[garland-on-thy-brow]

Highlights of the week.

Left the house.

Treats (especially onion waffles, they are delicious).

Read Philippics 8 and 9.

Watched some of TGCF donghua season 2.

Watched The Pharmacist's Monologue episodes 1-16.

Dedicated time to studying Italian.

Wrote some words for the fanfiction.

[quirefeast]

TGCF DONGHUA LITERALLY MAKING ME CHOKE BLOOD /pos

SPOILERS FOR EP 9 SEASON 2

THAT WAS SO GOOD!!!!!! THE NEW CONTENT??? ADDING CONTEXT TO YONG’AN AND XIANLE??? SHOWING HOW XIE LIAN LIKED THAT QIANQIU WAS LOOKING AT HIS PEOPLE WITH LOVE AND INTEREST! KINDNESS! XIE LIAN WANTING THE BEST FOR HIS DISCIPLE!!!! HE WANTED PEACE SO BAD!!! I CANT WAIT FOR THE NEXT EPISODE AUGHGHUGHH

ALSO I LOVE THAT THEY TRIED TO MAKE THE LITTLE SYMBOL ON THE FOREHEAD AS A SIGN OF XIANLE! I THOUGHT THAT WAS EPIC AND SWAG! PLUS THE LITTLE ADDITION OF CULTURAL DIFFERENCES AGHHGH AAAAAAAAA

[life-rewritten]

THE DIFFERENT FORMS OF HUACHENG; TGCF SEASON 1

TGCF just ended, and I just wanted to cry because I'm going to miss this show for a while until we're ready for season 2. Good news Season 2 has been announced and is in production so maybe end of this year? Hopefully? One can hope. Anyways because we're saying goodbye for a while, I decided to focus my review on Hua  Cheng this time. The many ways he has shown up in Season 1, the many encounters he had with Xie Lian who doesn't even know how long he's been by his side, the many forms he used to stay and help Xie Lian. In TGCF, Hua Cheng's appearances in Xie Lian’s life is essential because of his constant devotion and ambition to ensure that Xie Lian is protected, safe and happy. Hua Cheng shows up each time to an oblivious Xie Lian who only has been introduced to the knowledge of one form of him, San Lang in season 1. But what about us the audience, we've seen Cheng as a child in the first episode, in the intro, we've seen him as San Lang, and we've also been introduced slightly to his natural form, the Hua Cheng Ghost King form. So let's look into it more, how has each state been connected to Xie Lian and what have we been shown or told so far about the building relationship between our ghost king and our god. 

The Different Versions of Hua Cheng

So the first thing we need to break down is the similarities of each of his forms and their different meanings to his character dynamic and arc concerning his and Xie Lian's love story. So as mentioned before there are three different versions of him we're introduced to:

The Child: We see him in a desolated state, with bandages surrounding his face, blood and he's in tears looking forlorn at Xie Lian who also has given up on something throwing away his umbrella and face darkened and walking away, probably to a small shack. We also see this child more importantly connected to our story because he's the first version of Hua Cheng in our origin of these two's meeting. He's saved by Xie Lian who completely stuns him and gives him the meaning to life again. We see snippets of this version of him in flashbacks and in the opening intro because TGCF is a story that is planning to unveil the years of Hua Cheng's devotion to  Xie Lian, the reasons, the actions made, and the consequences created from it in the past. 

San Lang: Number two we get to see San Lang, he's the version we spend the most time within season 1, knowing and having suspicions that he's Hua Cheng. San Lang is a mortal and meant to be a teen; he's wise for his age, aloof, and sly. And he's made it an aim to accompany  Xie Lian on his journey to getting followers again. There's more to San Lang that meets the eye, he has a convoluted back story (which is backshadowing the truth of his past) he tells Xie Lian, and he's very loyal and protective of Xie Lian. Xie Lian gets to become close to this version of Hua Cheng; this is the version he trusts the most and is the person who becomes someone he cares a lot about unconditionally.

Crimson Rain Sought Flower/ Ghost King the most dangerous and scariest and wealthy demon/devastation ghost in the story.  Xie Lian is first warned away from him because the gods are not on good terms with him. But  Xie Lian can't help but wonder if he's more than meets the eye because they meet under a blood rain as bride and groom. Hua Cheng shows up in his real form to guide  Xie Lian to safety. This version shows up again in the Sinner's pit in the Banyue arc in episode 9. After San Lang jumps in a sacrificial move, Hua Cheng eliminates everybody ruthlessly in the Sinner's pit and shows up again to fight Pei Xu to protect  Xie Lian in episode 11. This version is the real Hua Cheng, he has one eye, he is cold, ruthless, but also he's made it clear he wants to protect and is on the lookout for Xie Lian. By the end of season 1, Lian chooses to ignore the rumours and become close with him despite the warnings. 

Age, Status, and Love; The growth of Hua Cheng

The first thing to notice about these versions of Hua Cheng is that they all have a way of shadowing how he's grown and his journey to Xie Lian. From a child who's naive and innocent and is traumatised by events in the world, to a teen who is not taken as seriously, is wiser and mature and able to fend for himself, to the Ghost King who is who he is at present, his real self after many years, who is now powerful, in control and older but also not alive.

 And the second thing to notice is the difference of status and wealth depicted with his versions;  as a child even though we aren't shown the details, we can see that he's not rich, he's dressed in rags, and he's bandaged poorly and looks like he has nothing. As San Lang, he's able to fend for himself and Xie Lian by collecting scraps and rebuilding their first place together, and with Ghost King, you can tell he's wealthy, he's dressed in the finest of robes, silver dangling from everywhere you look, and we know from Ling Wen; he's affluent. So another observation to notice. 

The last thing to notice with these versions is the one common motif, Xie Lian. Xie Lian is also seen in different versions/ forms to us each time Hua Cheng shows up.

 We see  Xie Lian in the child's eyes as a prince; golden, lavish and beautiful, he's dressed in the finest attire but also we see that Lian is the person who flies to save this child from either falling or jumping to his end. (still, we can't be sure why he was falling), 

But then with San Lang, Xie Lian is undercover as a mortal (though it's pretty apparent to guess he's not) without power, followers or any self-esteem (from his comments) and wealth. But with San Lang, Xie Lian is vulnerable and shown to be more lonely and filled with self-deprecation but is determined to protect everyone he comes across, which makes him more self-sacrificial. 

As Ghost King, we see Xie Lian on a mission as a god, untrusting, capable, and very cunning and intuitive, he wears a mask (literally wearing a veil) of happiness, ease,  but he's alert and ready to defend and knows how to avoid being caught by his enemies. 

Unconditional Devotion; The Love of Hua Cheng

In all versions, Hua Cheng shows us that he has with Xie Lian some kind of devotion and love:

As a child: His eyes light up for the first time, he follows after him (inferred from the intro and episode 1) and watches helplessly as he can't do anything to protect him at that moment. You can feel the determination, the longing, and the urgency in each scene he's shown watching after  Xie Lian as Xie Lian gives up on himself. 

As San Lang: He guides and protects Xie Lian, he stays by his side loyally and prevents Xie Lian from getting into harm's way using information that he knows. You can feel that he knows how Xie Lian is self-sacrificial, and he's here to protect and keep Xie Lian from being puppeteered or played around by others.

 As Ghost King: He is deadly when it comes to Xie Lian, he kills and destroys and doesn't waste time with others, he's also protective of where Xie Lian touches, he doesn't want him soiled by blood or anything ( using either an umbrella to protect him when they first meet, or cradling him to ensure his foot doesn't meet the ground). He's determined to get rid of anything that could hurt Xie Lian or make him suffer, and he does it through violence. 

And even though Xie Lian doesn't have any recognition of who he is yet in his life, in every version Xie Lian has also shown protection and care for Hua Cheng unconditionally which is embedded in his personality.

 He saves his life as the child, (just like he positively affects other children like Banyue who look up to him), he is determined to protect and make sure San Lang is safe. It terrifies him to think otherwise, and he accepts Hua Cheng unconditionally after realising who he is. 

He also shows awe and intrigue with all things, Hua Cheng, whilst others call him terrifying  Xie Lian says his name suits him because it's pretty when he sees his butterflies he's in awe and automatically wants to follow them because they make him feel at ease despite the fact that those butterflies can probably without his knowledge kill and maim. When he notices others may notice who Cheng is at the pit, he's worried but at ease to see him hidden as San Lang again, and he finally tells him; he doesn't care who he is because he's a friend.

 Xie Lian; The Goal of Hua Cheng

For Xie Lian he's realised there's unconditional care and like and reliance for Hua Cheng, it's automatic and he can't stop feeling safe and at ease with him. Despite his first time meeting San Lang and being suspicious, it took him an ox ride to find out he liked and was intrigued by San Lang even if he was Hua Cheng. He liked how he spoke, he liked his wisdom, and he enjoyed spending time with him. It became natural to rely on his protection, his touch, and his information each journey they went on. 

 And with Hua Cheng in all his versions there's that unconditional need to protect, devotion and determination to stay by Xie Lian's side. After all, that's where this started, him being affected by Xie Lian saving his life. We can guess he took it literally and made it a reality, though now we wonder how he went from a human child to being dead yet a mighty ghost king. 

 In a way we see Hua Cheng show up and start making Xie Lian find reasons for living too. Not that it's apparent that he doesn't want to live; that he's full of self-loathing and self-sacrificial tendencies. Hua Cheng seemed to be as San Lang, one of the first people who showed Xie Lian unconditional loyalty and support despite not seeing himself as deserving of it. Hua Cheng may not be his reason for living, but Hua Cheng is his reason for why he gets to live; many times Hua Cheng's protection is to keep Xie Lian from being hurt; the snake scorpion venom, the Sinner's pit, the Pei Xu and snakes, the head on the ground filled with demonic energy and Xuan Ji. Hua Cheng shows up as groom the first time we see him, and he leads Xie Lian to protection to the place he needs to go to know what's going on with the brides. With his determination, experience (giving Xie Lian information) and power Hua Cheng protects and pushes Xie Lian to keep staying safe and alive knowing someone does not see him as worthless or a misfortune. 

Ghost vs Human: The Disguise of Hua Cheng

It makes you wonder this need of why Hua Cheng does hide in many forms; why does he not make Xie Lian know that they've known each other for so long? why does he hide as San Lang and not his true form since Xie Lian doesn't know who he is, and why does he keep his true form out of sight from Xie Lian. He's determined to hide his natural form because showing it would lead to opportunities of weakness.

 As we can see from just his child self Hua Cheng was determined to do something, to become more so he could be of help, payback Xie Lian for saving his life, and become his reason to live. So he probably can not let any weakness affect him; he probably has built up protection of himself so no one can reach him so that no one can reach Xie Lian. His aim is to be a safeguard for Xie Lian, an impenetrable, protective and robust protection. People seeing his real form is a lead way to vulnerability and weakness. Him protecting how he looks makes him even more of a scarier person to deal with because you don't know his real self or strength fully.

 It also gives him a way to be by  Xie Lian's side without anyone knowing his goals; he does this as San Lang, shows a different version of himself which is more acceptable and less conflicting to be by Xie Lian's side. A mortal can be seen as a worshiper, a friend and a helper. But a ghost king by a god side is more looked down upon. We see this when Fu Yao and Nan Feng try to uncover who he is. Xie Lian has been warned that he should stay away from Ghost King version, and maybe Hua Cheng also thinks that version should not be known, or seen or met. With how scary and dangerous he seems, (he's known for his harmful actions, he also took out his own eye as he puts it because of insanity, he has incredibly deadly weapons and he's someone heaven is terrified of). Hua Cheng may think Xie Lian won't give him a chance to know him. But of course, he discovers that  Xie Lian doesn't care about that. 

Ghost King: The Past of Hua Cheng

The different forms of Hua Cheng we see as the audience showcases other assets to his mindset, we've seen him weak, vulnerable, and lost without Xie Lian when he was a child, there was a time where he was the most scared of everything,  a time where he probably had no control over whatever he wanted, a time where he was filled with despair and obliqueness, but Xie Lian showed up as a light, the same way Hua Cheng shows up in Xie Lian's life in season 1 as a guide, they both shift their mindsets and determination to be better and succeed.  

That's why his growth to becoming Ghost King is fascinating; he's become the opposite of his childhood self, he's no longer mortal and human, ( as we see with his other two versions) he's seen as ruthless and cold to anyone who bothers him or Xie Lian. It's not an easy feat; it must have taken a lot of pain, and suffering to get to who he is, for him even to become a devastation he would have needed to be filled with resentful energy, this means that he also is someone full of grief and suffering as  Xie Lian who hides his behind his mask of an easygoing and cheerful nature. 

Hua Cheng hides his behind strength and power, they both have scars and secrets hidden needed to uncover to know why they have become this way, but one thing stays for sure, and that's that Xie Lian and Hua Cheng both become healing to each other from their past scars. Xie Lian becomes Hua Cheng's sole reason to live, devoting himself to Xie Lian is what's making him good and not broken. Xie Lian on the other hand, Cheng becomes someone who makes him want to accept himself, Hua Cheng is someone who becomes a healing presence to him, he's happier, comfortable and safer by his side, and he knows this. Hence, he lets himself be pulled to him, carried and protected by him, he's shocked by it, but you can see it affects him each time Hua Cheng does something to protect him as San Lang. 

In a world where we are focusing on gods and demons and ghosts, Xie Lian and Hua Cheng seem oddly incompatible; the gods look down on the ghost kings because of their actions and because they're closer to evil or immoral actions. Xie Lian as a god is meant to be moral, just and higher than others, including mortals, and so being with the most powerful ghost king and slowly falling for him probably isn't a great idea. What matters now is how long these two have been near each other, how has both the journey of them affected the other, Hua Cheng is entirely devoted to Xie Lian even after his passing and resurrection as a ghost king, and that's interesting, he has been watching and keeping an eye on Xie Lian who's oblivious and has more things to focus on than that, Xie Lian has a past which he feels guilt, self-hatred and fear from, it's slowly being revealed, and it's fascinating to watch it. 

Hua Cheng also has many interesting actions he's made that also need a reason or explanation, like why he has one eye, what made him become a ghost king, why he aimed for an attack at the gods, and his real purpose with Xie Lian? It's been an amazing time watching this season. I can't wait to find out more about these two's journey and love story. The undying loyalty and devotion to each other despite being so far apart for time is fascinating. I can't wait to see season 2. 

[razberryyum]

TGCF donghua Episode 9 Thoughts (SPOILERS! for episode and novel)

I've heard of the words Sinner's Pit a while back, probably when I first heard of TGCF, but it wasn't until a couple weeks ago when I started reading the book that I finally understood what they meant, and why it was an event in the saga of HuaLian. Even though I've only been acquainted with it for such a short period of time, I still teared up when watching the scene, so I can only imagine how much more emotional this moment was for fellow fans who have been waiting years to see it. I really hope it lived up to everyone's expectations cuz it kinda blew my mind.

When the episode was delayed in its broadcast I actually felt dread, since I immediately assumed that the HuaLian Sinner's Pit scenes didn't pass the restrictions and it was going to be edited to death or worse yet, completely cut out. Thank God that was not the case. I was looking forward to much groppage of Hua Cheng from Dianxia, and that's exactly what I got...with an extra large dose of romance too thanks to the amazing score. If anything was left out in the scene I sure couldn't tell nor did I feel anything was missing.

I've watched countless fall and rescue scenes in cdramas, to the degree that sometimes it feels like it's a required element in romance cdramas, and of course it's usually the woman in the couple falling from somewhere and the man coming to her rescue and catching her. And they're usually so poorly done that I either eyeroll so hard my eyes feel like they're gonna pop out of their sockets or I feel almost nauseated from the cheesiness.

But the donghua did it PERFECTLY. Those stupidass cdramas should learn from them. HuaLian's fall and catch scene was paced just right, scored just right, shot just right...simple PERFECTION. Not at all cheesy or cringey, utterly sublime...and everything that followed between them was utterly sublime as well.

Talk about another perfectly captured scene. I loved this line. So sweet and wonderful. No wonder Hua Cheng's in love with this man.

Btw, I know it says friendship, but just in case anyone's worried the donghua is trying to friendzone HuaLian, those Chinese characters can just be a general way of saying getting along, usually in a friendly way, but it's not as friend zone-y as it sounds. Although, I doubt anyone actually watching the show and paying attention to it would even think Hua Cheng only wants to be bro-friends with Xie Lian.

I mean, I guessss bros can be touchy feely and eyefuck eyelove each other all the time, but I would personally like to meet them bros like that.

Also, not fair of the donghua team to cuteify these boys even more. My poor heart almost couldn't take it. Too adorable!!

Honestly, after that HuaLian-ful sequence, my brain was barely able to register anything else. Doesn't help that I already know how things will resolve in terms of this mystery. I am mostly looking forward to how the "new" characters whom are being introduced to looks and how they will bring to life certain non-HuaLian related events that sounded dramatic or even epic in writing.

For example the Banyue Guoshi...was totally not expecting her to look this adorable. She looks so innocent and pretty, who in their right mind would bully such a beautiful little girl??

Although, when she is on the attack, she definitely does feel like a wraith bringing instant death upon her victims. This was so beautifully animated: it looked both terrifying and truly impressive.

Lastly:

Hiiii puppyyyyy!!!! Nice to finally meet you!! Who's a good boy?? 😂 E-Ming's a total cutie pie and his first appearance was cool AF too. I freaked out a little.

OMG I almost forgot!! I LOVE the new ED theme!!! I hope they release an official MV for it soon!

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NOVEL SPOILERS

Current Reading Progress: finished book 1, currently in book 2, knee-deep in Yong'an famine crisis. Every HuaLian interaction is a treasure, I know I didn't mention them at all last week but pretty much every time they meet up again I scream a bit. The temple scene, when Dianxia told chibi HC to live for him, got me so emotional (I also really want to hug little HC and protect him forever). Seriously felt like I finally reached some kind of important milestone since I read that line somewhere even before I even knew who or what HuaLian was. I don't know how many seasons of the donghua we'll be blessed with, but if we don't get as far as Dianxia's past, then I do hope we at least get to see Ghost City, Gambler's Den, Paradise Manor,and Qi Rong's cave. I can imagine getting into some of that next season but unless it's a long one, I doubt we'd be able to see all of it in one season.

And also, I don't think I love Qi Rong anymore. He really is a bad, bad boy...and not in the sexy way, but more in the holy shit you really are fucked up way.

Finally, the Yong'an thing... I'm already bracing myself. I could be wrong but I already see how that could lead to Xianle's downfall. The knives are probably coming, huh?

TGCF novel translation can be found at: https://tgcfmxtx.carrd.co/

[nyerus]

🌸 Updates and FAQs for Watching the TGCF Donghua! 🌸

✴️First, check out my detailed guide HERE if you want to know how to subscribe to YouTube or Bilibili!

Please read through these if you have any questions first before sending in an ask, as it's probably answered here (or the previous guide)!!! If you don't see it here, or still have confusions afterwards, then feel free to send in an ask or DM me!

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✨Important Notes/Updates✨

Bilibili is allowing non-members to watch for free! No region locks, and you don’t even need to make an account. Free watchers will be one week behind paid members. But this is a legal and free way to support the donghua if you’re unable to pay! (This actually means that you’ll be able to see the episodes faster and for free on Bilibili than you would on YouTube, because YouTube has a two week delay instead of just one week.)

Funimation is broadcasting TGCF in the US, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand. These are some of the regions which are blocked by YouTube, so this is an available alternative for those who don’t want to go through Bilibili. They have also stated they will launch in Mexico and Brazil this winter.

ALL broadcasts are in Chinese with hard-coded/embedded English and Chinese subs. (I.e., they come with the broadcast itself, on top of the image. Nothing to toggle on/off, they are automatically there.) They are the exact same across all the platforms.

Please support official releases so that we can get more seasons, and high quality! This is still niche content, believe it or not!

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✨Frequntly Asked Questions✨

🔹GENERAL FAQs:🔹

1.) "Where is the best place to watch?"

I still reccomend Bilibili's native website/app over all other streaming platforms. This is due to some key points:

Bilibili's website/app gets the episode the very second they drop. There is no delay whatsoever. YouTube and Funimation have been delayed the last two weeks. It's unknown if this is just a hiccup or what, but if watching new episodes ASAP is important to you, going through Bilibili ensures you will not have to worry about any uncertainty.

Price breakdowns: Bilibili's website/app 3-month membership is $10-11 USD. Their YouTube channel's "MBBM Lv2" membership varies by region, but in many places is similar or just a tad more. In the US, the MBBM Lv2 membership and Funimation membership is the same price ($5.99 per month, or $17.97 for 3 months). So you can actually save some cash by going through Bilibili directly.

In the end, this is largely up to personal choice and comfort. Some people may find it difficult to navigate Bilibili's website even with guides and google translate's auto-translate feature. In this case, YouTube or Funimation are fine alternatives. If you also have an existing Funimation sub or plan to use it to watch other shows, then that's perfectly valid too. Similar with the MBBM lv2 sub on YouTube, especially if you want to use it to see other shows (e.g. Legend of Exorcism which is only English-subbed on YouTube).

2.) "Where do I watch for free?"

On Bilibili's website, you can watch episodes for free! You will be one episode behind paid members, but it's a legal way to support the donghua. You don't even need to create an account!

3.) "What episode will be airing when/where?"

Check out the table below for the differences in airing times. Time is 11AM China Time.*

NOTE: Funimation is technically supposed to be the same as Bilibili members/YouTube MBBM Lv2, but the last few episodes have been delayed so I have no clue.... *Additionally, YouTube's episodes have been delayed by a little bit, but they've aired the same day.

4.) "How can I support the donghua?"

Free, on YouTube: Subscribe to Bilibili's YouTube Channel, give likes to TGCF videos/clips, and leave nice comments!

Free, on Bilibili: Everyone can follow the official TGCF account and page, plus leave likes on videos. All this following stuff requires you to have passed the Bilibili quiz to unlock levels: If you are lv2+, you can leave comments and give coins to offical TGCF videos. (Log in daily to get 1 coin/day if you're lv1+!) If you are lv4+, leave a good 5-star review!

Paid: Buy subscriptions to watch the donghua! Also, merchhhhh~

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🔸YOUTUBE-RELATED FAQs🔸

1.) "What's the difference between Bilibili's YouTube Channel's MBBM Lv1 and Lv2 memberships?"

MBBM Lv2 allows you to watch the episodes on the same day as Bilibili's website broadcast.

MBBM Lv1 has new episodes delayed by one week, meaning you will be one episode behind the others. There actually is zero point in subscribing to MBBM Lv1 (unless you want to watch other subbed donghua) because you can watch the same content on Bilibili for absolutely free, since Bilibili is allowing non-members to watch TGCF one episode behind paid members.

You can also watch two episodes behind on YouTube.

2.) "If I have YouTube Premium/Red, do I still need a membership on Bilibili's YouTube page?"

Yes. YouTube premium is completely separate from the channel-specific memberships.

3.) "Are episodes simulcast on YouTube?"

While originally stated as being simulcast, there actually seems to be a bit of a delay on YouTube as of now. It's unclear if this will change with future episodes.

4.) "Do I need a VPN?"

If you are from one of the restricted countries, then yes, you'll need to use a VPN. You can still pay for the subscription as normal, and then use a VPN to watch the donghua. It will not affect payment.

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🔹BILIBILI-RELATED FAQs:🔹

1.) "Do I need to take that 100-question quiz to sign up for Bilibili or the membership?!"

No, it's totally optional! You do not need it to either watch the free episodes or to buy a membership. It's only if you want to comment and stuff. It might make you think you gotta do it, or enter a code, but it's actually not needed. Check out THIS post for more info!!! (However, you may still want to do it in order to level up and eventually leave a nice review for the donghua!)

2.) "I'm only able to watch 6min on Bilibili's website when I watch from my phone. Do I need the app?"

You do not need the app. Switch your browser to Desktop Mode in order to watch the video in full.

Be sure to download a browser like Google Chrome, Firefox, etc that supports this mode if your native browser doesn't allow for it.

3.) "Can I get the app on iPhone/iOS?"

This depends on if you are in a country where the app is not region locked in the app store. If you're able to download it that way, great! If not, try using a VPN and setting your region to mainland China. It may work. APKs are not useable on iPhones, so unless you know how to sideload apps onto your device, you may be stuck with the app store only.

Do note that you might be unable to pay for a Bilibili membership through the app, depending on version, but you can always simply pay through the website and then use the app as normal. It will apply account-wide on all devices.

4.) "Why are there two versions of the app?"

One seems to be the international version, which is more basic and lets you pay via GooglePay/ApplePay. The other one seems to be made for mainland China, and allows you to even buy merchandise through it (Chinese address/bank acc required). Mostly, both have to be downloaded via APK on Android. But some iOS users have reported different versions of the app being available for them through the app store (namely the int'l ver, and some have said they can use a VPN to get the mainland one).

5.) "Is there any benefit to having the app over just using the website?"

Not really, no. With the app you can buy very cute hualian themed skins for your profile, though (if you have the mainland version of the app). Plus you can save videos for offline viewing.

6.) "Do I need to enter my area code for Bilibili when signing up/in?"

NO, you do not enter your area code in the phone number field. Select your country from the drop-down list and it will automatically consider your area code. (E.g. if you're in America, select 美国 and enter in your number like 5557779999.)

7.) "I didn't get to set a password when signing up, so how do I log into my Bilibili account after being logged out?"

Use the same phone number you did to sign up. Instead of a password, you'll enter in a one-time key that is sent to your phone via text message. (NOTE: some people have reported not receiving these messages, which may vary by phone carrier!)

As mentioned above, don't include your area code when filling out your number.

Also, if you are signed in on the app on your phone, you can scan the QR code on the log-in page through the app.

8.) "How do I turn off the barrage comments filling up the video I'm watching?"

Select the little button that reads "弹" under the video:

(Website vs App)

9.) Is the Bilibili subscription auto-renewing?

No, the 1-month (¥25), 3-month (¥68), 1-year (¥168) subscriptions will not automatically renew. They are a one-time payment only!

Notice that the renewing payments all say "连续" in front of them, which means "continuing" or "successive" types of subscriptions. They are also cheaper than the one-time payment. (E.g. the renewing 3-month sub is ¥45 instead of ¥68.) Moreover, the renewing types are not even available to purchase with PayPal, afaik. You need Alipay or WeChat Pay, etc.

10.) "Can I use the app/membership to read the manhua too?"

Unfortunately, not quite! Your Bilibili account is universal, but you'll need to download the manhua app seperately and topping up M-coins to pay for the manhua. (One-time purchases, either by volume or by chapter as per your choice.)

11.) "What resolutions are available?"

You can watch up to 480p as a free member. Paid members can watch at 1080p and high-bit-rate 1080p. It's possible to chromecast it to TV, too. (I haven't tried it, but others have!)

12.) "Can I watch across multiple devices?"

Yes, you can!

13.) "Do I need a VPN?"

No, Bilibili is not region-locked. However, some particular countries may have Chinese apps blocked.... :(

14.) "I want to leave a comment/review. How do I level up on Bilibili?"

Log in daily, watch at least one video per day, give coins (attained by logging in) to your fave videos, etc! It will definitely take a while haha.

15.) "Will I be able to watch other donghua like MDZS or SVSSS with my membership on Bilibili?"

No, those two donghuas are produced by TenCent, not Bilibili. You will need either a TenCent/WeTV account, or you can watch them on their YouTube channel (free).

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🔸FUNIMATION-RELATED FAQs🔸

1.) "Is Funimation's broadcast a simulcast?"

It is supposed to be, according to their initial announcements. They seem to be having some technical difficulties, but those may be resolved soon. I suggest keeping an eye on their twitter for updates if you are interested in watching through them!

2.) "Do I have to pay extra on my Funimation sub to watch TGCF?"

No, afaik, the regular $5.99 sub covers TGCF too.

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I hope this helps out people further, so we can all have an easy time watching the donghua! And please do support it legally! 🙏

If you still need help, feel free to send in an ask!

[sidecharactersdomatter]

Thoughts I had during TGCF S1 Ep 11

-Previously on TGCF…

-AAaaaugh there’s so many falling cobras!

-Oooh firebending through blood, not like how it’s done in Atla that’s for sure

-Aaaaugh they’re still here

-Oh yeah, that’s probably it.

-It’s official, Fu Yao is a huge mood

-Too late he already is trusting them

-Oooh a good metaphor to tie in with the cobras

-No he has not lost himself, just wait till we get halfway through the series… oboy that’s spoilers isn’t it

-Yeah the side without snakes really is a valid reason

-Aw San Lang like his joke

-No there goes the flame barrier

-Aiaigasa!  It’s Aiaigasa again folks AAAAAHHH!!!!

-No they will not at all San Lang

-Scorpion tailed cobras why’d they have to be Scorpion tailed Cobras?!?!?!?!?

-This whole episode will trigger everybody’s ophidiophobia…and arachnophobia 

-Oooh!  Good palm strikes!

-I know it isn’t San Lang who’s controlling the snakes and blocking the mana

-Where did Ban Yue go???

-Aiaigasa is the stuff people

-Oooh who was that?

-San Lang gets to fight again!!!

-The animation for that hidden fight

-Oooh Ruoye tensed up for a sec

-We’ve seen how she fought in Ep 9

-Oh Xuan Ji got name dropped!

-Oh! Plot twist again!!!!

-It is all coming together again…

-Oh foreshadowing from Ep 3 again

-At Ban Yue pass!

-Yes he did

-It is all coming together people

-He was keeping up his selfless act

-Man that was a really long cold opening folks

-Pei Xiu protected Ban Yue

-The Yong’An boy

-Aw Ban Yue

-Ban Yue has the answer

-Aw no Ban Yue she’s worn out

-Aw he helped tend to her wounds

-Hi Xie Lia- I mean General Hua

-Oh that was traumatic

-No Ban Yue…

-I think it’ll lead to more war

-They both remembered Xie Lian

-She didn’t want her kingdom to kill themself with dynamite

-Aw San Lang helped supported her when she fainted (It’s official he is also father material)

-That explains the fall of the desert kingdom

-Woah it’s going back and forth between Kemo and Pei Xiu

-“Violence works for me” Never change San Lang, valid

-Ooooh who could that be on top of the pit?

-A cyclone

-He saved Ban Yue!

-Hi Nan Feng

-*Sees Nan Feng’s beat up face* Ahahahahahahaha I’m sorry XD

-Never change Fu Yao and Nan Feng, never change

-Hi Windmaster

-Oh San Lang knows the dark haired woman

-You’ll find about that later

-The truth has come out

-Yep that sums it up

-That explains the sandstorm

-Yeah well he ended up getting involved when Heaven didn’t give him an answer about the ban Yue pass

-Aw he’s protecting Ban Yue again

-Oh good Tian Sheng and the merchants are safe

-Yes heaven is confirmed to be corrupt

-Does anybody know who female!Ming Yi’s English voice actor is? (I’ve tried looking her up but please do answer in the comment section!)

-We’ll see Windmaster again too

-No General Hua!!!!

-Ooooh Pei Xiu army backstory

-He didn’t get assigned

-Ooooh Classism!

-That one scared soldier

-He never got promoted

-Ugh classism really did get explained in this ep

-Hi Ban Yue

-They won a fight with Pei’s strategy

-Ugh Classist general

-No Ban Yue!!!!  She was so young!!! T - T

-Really good instrumental of Bu San people, the first ending song of season 1, whoa it is really moving even without words!  This Donghua by far has the best emotionally stirring music!

-Yeah where will Xie Lian go from here?  (Well we’ll have to find that out next season)

-You know he’ll get involved with reporting to the Emperor too

-Oooh Yizhen got name dropped too!

-I think Pei Ming will verbally harm Xie Lian (yeah I’ve seen the first ep of Season 2 sry)

-I think I have a good reason why Fu Yao left early

-And it spanned about 3 episodes Nan Feng!

-Ban Yue is out cold

-Magic sleeves of holding count: 5 (These are gonna get hard to track folks)

-Uncle Jiang is cured!

-There go the merchants

-Yeah you go make that temple Tian Sheng, do it for Xie Lian best dream ever!!!

-Oooh San Lang has connections

-Oooh Nan Feng’s face turned blue when Xie Lian offered to cook!

-Good excuse Nan Feng valid

-And the way he’s running away from the duo XDXDXD!

-Here’s why Fu Yao left early, as they healed Uncle Jiang he contacted Nan Feng through the telepathic array and Fu Yao’s reason is:  Come on, you know how horrifying his highness’ cooking can be.  This is just my theory, and I’d love to hear your possible ones in the comments!

-He called him by his real name ‘Hua Cheng’!!!!

-And the way Hua Cheng moved in closer and just preferred to be called ‘San Lang’ my freaking heart!!!

-Oooh Hong Jue again!  I guess it plays during the second half of Season 1

Only one episode left to react to!!!