A Record of a Mortal’s Journey to Immortality [Episode 175]

“A Record of a Mortal’s Journey to Immortality Episode 175: The Nascent Soul That Broke Bilibili”

Let’s cut straight to the chaos: when Han Li finally ascended to Nascent Soul in Episode 175, Bilibili crashed. Over 450,000 fans flooded the stream, and if the site hadn’t died for an hour, we’re talking 1 million viewers easy. That’s the kind of hype we’re dealing with here—this episode wasn’t just another chapter; it was a cultural moment for donghua fans.

First off, the animation. Let’s be real: how many shows actually animate the celestial phenomenon of a Nascent Soul forming? The sky splitting into four glowing orbs, the energy swirling like a cosmic storm, and then—boom—Han Li’s tiny, chibi-style Nascent Soul popping into existence? It was equal parts epic and adorable. Fans were losing it over that little guy (“so adorably cute!” one commenter gushed), and honestly? Same. The way the four orbs merged—specific to Han Li’s rare 4x false root—was a visual flex no one saw coming. Even the elders, Cheng Tiankun and Lu Luo, couldn’t keep their cool; their over-the-top reactions (“comically funny!”) had fans cackling between gasps.

But the real star? The slowed-down remix of the “Extraordinary” opening theme. When that music hit as Han Li’s soul stabilized? Chills. Literal chills. “I had goosebumps again watching it the second time,” one fan wrote—and who can blame them? The score turned a milestone into a masterpiece, making every second feel like a victory lap for Han Li’s 156-episode grind (four seasons! Four!).

Let’s talk about that grind, though. Han Li’s journey hasn’t been easy—false roots, near-death fights, losing his sect 200 years back. So when he finally crossed that line? Fans lost their minds. One viewer admitted to pausing mid-episode to “punch air” out of joy; another said it “made my whole day.” This isn’t just a power-up—it’s validation. After all the setbacks, Han Li’s still here, climbing higher.

And then there’s the sect drama. The Fallen Cloud Sect just went from two Nascent Soul elders to three (if Han Li stays, that is). The other sects? Shook. The Fiery Dragon Boy from Ancient Sword Sect looked like he’d seen a ghost when he realized Han Li’s potential. Fans are already speculating: will Han Li take the grand elder spot? How will the sect leader react? (“Where even is the sect leader?” one confused fan asked—relatable.)

But let’s not forget the cliffhanger: next week, the heart demon. Han Li’s come this far, but the hardest test is still ahead. Will he face his past? His regrets? Fans are already counting down the days (“can’t wait for the next episode!”).

If you’re new to the series, Episode 175 is the perfect example of why A Record of a Mortal’s Journey to Immortality works. It’s not just about flashy fights (though there are plenty); it’s about the wait. The years of grinding, the small wins, the moments when you think, “Is this guy ever gonna catch a break?” And then—boom—he does. And you’re right there with him, screaming at your screen.

So yeah, this episode was peak. Bilibili crashing? Worth it. Replaying the opening 10 times? Worth it. Losing sleep over the heart demon tease? Absolutely worth it. Han Li didn’t just reach Nascent Soul—he reminded us why we love underdog stories.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m gonna go rewatch that chibi Nascent Soul scene. For the fifth time.

(And yes, someone already asked: Han Li’s waifu? Still 70 chapters away. Patience, weebs.)