With the help of Mergen, Hongjun and Li Jinglong have successfully roused the ghost king from his waking dream—but the danger is not yet over. The group soon learns that the one responsible for entrapping the ghost king is none other than the white deer Mergen seeks, a god of dreams who has fallen under the sway of the mysterious yao king. Worse still, the yao king has used the deer's power to take control of the ghost king's army, and more undead soldiers are on the way.
Before they can formulate a plan, Lu Xu, the fleet-footed scout Mergen rescued on the northern border, sets off alone in the snow. When Hongjun goes after him, he too finds himself snared in a nightmare of the enemy's making—a vision of his own forgotten past that will upend everything he thought he knew about himself, his parents, and even Li Jinglong.
This volume truly put me through the wringer. I was taken aback by how quickly the novel escalated into serious territory. The plot in this volume relied heavily on a trope I absolutely despise: miscommunication/misunderstandings. The way this plot device stretched out for over 200 pages had me ready to scream in frustration. At times, it felt like the author was dragging the miscommunication along just for the sake of creating tension. Most of the conflicts could have been resolved somewhat with a conversation between the characters. What’s more, one of the key issues remained unresolved by the end of the volume, leaving me feeling even more vexed.
Despite my complaints and frustrations, I still found myself deeply invested in the story and the characters. Something was compelling about the journey, and I genuinely enjoyed reading through it.
Hongjung was a character who stirred a whirlwind of mixed emotions within me in this volume. His behavior really tested my patience; at times, I felt like pulling my hair out in frustration. While I could understand his motivations — his personal struggles and fears — many of his actions left me feeling perplexed. I adored him nonetheless, even though I often wanted to give him a swift slap to bring him back to reality. Still, there were moments when my heart went out to him. What he found out was horrific, but I can't help but still feel conflicted about my feelings for him.
Li Jinglong, on the other hand, endured so much in this volume. His unwavering conviction, determination, and the depth of his love for Hongjung were evident throughout. The character development he exhibited was truly impressive.
Mergen, as always, provided a mix of amusement and exasperation. I still found him likable, even if he seemed a bit slow on the uptake when it came to piecing things together. I’m eagerly anticipating how the author will delve into his feelings for Lu Xu in future volumes.
Speaking of Lu Xu, he continues to be my favorite character in this danmei. His transformation after regaining his senses and memories was both surprising and entertaining. The complete shift in his personality had me laughing, and I adored the friendship that blossomed between him and Hongjung, especially after learning about their shared past.
The relationship between Hongjung and Li Jinglong in this volume could be summed up in three words: cute, agonizing, and lovely. Their dynamic started off with a sweet and affectionate vibe, but just as quickly, the angst set in, catching me completely off guard. Once again while I understood the motivations behind Hongjung’s behavior, many of his reactions toward Li Jinglong felt absurd. It was disheartening to witness him seemingly forget all the sacrifices Li Jinglong had made for him, all because of a nightmare in which he was unsure what the truth even was. By the volume’s end, they found happiness again, yet I couldn’t shake off my conflicting feelings about the tumultuous evolution of their relationship. The angst moments overshadowed the emotional and blissful instances in their journey for me.
Mergen and Lu Xu’s relationship took me by surprise. I never anticipated it developing the way it did, but I found it thoroughly enjoyable and amusing. Lu Xu's banter with Mergen was so funny, and it’s delightful to see Mergen now trying to win over Lu Xu while facing the challenges that come with it. I can’t wait to see how their relationship unfolds in future volumes.
I was also thrilled to see A-Tai and Qiu Yongsi return as they brought back some much-needed lightness and carefree moments amid the heavier themes of this volume. Their presence added a refreshing contrast and helped balance the seriousness of the narrative.
In conclusion, I enjoyed this volume despite its few disappointments. I’m looking forward to the release of the fourth volume, eager to see where the story takes me next.
Buckle up from here on to the end of the series. So muchhappens in this volume it's difficult for me to review without spoilers (but no spoilers!). I've been waiting for this part of the story because it is loaded with explanations, reveals, and plot twists. The FTL I read had me confused a few times and this translation cleared everything right up.
🦚Lu Xu my baby ❤ One of my favorite friendships in all of danmei- Hongjun and Lu Xu 🥰 🦚Love Hongjun's confidence in Li Jinglong- reminds a little of Xie Lian and Hua Cheng 🦚New character introduced with a little bit of a name change but I think it's more accurate- quite the flirt 😂 🦚Another one of my favorite female characters in danmei is finally here! Fiesty and fierce 💪🏽 🦚Found family in full effect and growing 🦚Ruthie/kkcoocool did not disappoint with the illustrations 🔥🔥🔥
By the end of this novel, you will have a good understanding of Mara, resentment, the six artifacts of Acalantha, gray wolf/white deer, the different types of yao, and so much more
Here’s a list of all the novels in the Exorcism universe in publication order with approximate dates of when they take place just in case someone wants more than what's officially published so far...
1) Post Training Notice National First-Class Registered Exorcism/Ming Wang (modern supernatural, 2012) . FTL available on chickengege site 2)Legend of Exorcism/Tianbao (historical, Tang Dynasy 750 AD) 3) Dinghai Fusheng Records (Jin Dynasty, 350 AD) 4) Wan Wu (modern supernatural, 2022) . Available on jjwxc will have to use Google translate but it’s very easy to follow. 5) Qingping (historical, Song Dyndasy 1120 AD) Available on jjwxc will have to use Google translate, I’m only 10 chapters in and it’s easy to follow. * A sixth novel is planned around the Xia to Shang Dynasty, 1600 BCE.
I would definitely wait to read Wan Wu and Qingping after finishing LoE, DFR, and Ming Wang
My eyes are puffy, my orfaces have yet to dry, my heart flutters at the title of the chapter: I Love You So. I'M DED! _(:3」∠)_
But before that, to discover the biggest plot twist that will shape the rest of this novel is insane! I was not expecting it. People were saying this volume is sad, and I was honestly scared! I was telling myself, "it can't be that bad!" IT. WAS!! 😭
I think what hurt the most is Hongjun experiencing betrayal and heartache. His heart is so pure and he has only his infectious kindness to offer. Yet, the author throws us a twist and rips out heart out. QAQ
Li Jinglong is left in the dark. He's such a gentle and loving person, despite being grumpy and shy sometimes. He's so insecure sometimes, but he feels so hurt when the unexpected happens. He's so confused. So lost. His heart aches and he doesn't know what he did wrong. 。°(°.◜ᯅ◝°)°。
Finally, we get that scene I mentioned in my updates (which I will quote once more, but I will quote it at the very bottom of this review.) A scene that had my face drenched in snot and tears, staring into the abyss as I had to put the book down for a minute—on the train, mind you!
Every scene was incredible! The turmoil of fearing the unknown, but trusting that it'll be okay as long as we're together:
⚠️ Spoiler from here down ⚠️ (🔹underlined🔹) = theories * * * * * * * * * * (ㅅ˶´ ˘ `˶(⋆❛ ہ ❛⋆)!♡
"I didn't want to lose you," Li Jinglong said, taking Hongjun's hand. He leaned in and tenderly pressed their noses together. "I'm sorry, Hongjun. I hurt you with what I said earlier today. But facing our fears head-on is the only way to defeat them."...
"You're right," Hongjun murmured. "It's true—I have to face it, one way or another. Maybe this is the trial fate has set me." Li Jinglong flashed him a relieved smile.
"I'll face it with you. We'll do it together."
If he wanted to free himself of this burden, he first had to face himself and his fate. Yet Li Jinglong's words were also a promise: No matter when or where Hongjun fought this battle, he would be at Hongjun's side. . . . "The chief said he likes me. He wants to face my tribulations with me. We'll survive together -or else we'll be ground to dust together."
And not to mention the incredible love confession using such a romantic poem! This has got to be one of the sweetest confessions I've ever read!! Furthermore, in front of everyone for that matter! XD The second hand embarrassment was real!! Omg! Too funny! Everyone literally was teasing them! Not Mergen cheering the gayness! >\\\<
(˘͈ ᵕ ˘͈♡)˚๐*˟♡ I drift down the river on my boat. This blissful night, my prince beside me; oh, what a sweet day is today. I deserve neither his kindness nor his grace... Since meeting him, my heart is in disarray... I love you so, and yet you do not know. By the heavens, I want nothing more than to fall in love with you for our love to never cease. When the mountains crumble and the streams run dry; when the thunder rumbles in winter and the snow. Falls in summer; when the heavens and earth merge into one— only then shall I cease to love you." (˚ ˃̣̣̥⌓˂̣̣̥ )づ.。✧・゚:* ~♡
I CAN'T!!!! Send help!
I need not to say more! This was amazing! The trust and such gentle and frágil love they have... Wow! 🔹 I theorize that the six artifacts will be found, and Li Jinglong is going to go through space and time thanks to the artifacts power, and using his heart lamp, he will have giving up his seven emotions and six desires and only then, being able to use the heart lamp to cleanse the malign energies infecting Hongjun's body. I suspect this because in the dream Li Jinglong was shaking when he pointed the fused artifacts together. He must already know him and let go of every desire.🔹
The temptation to read further is going to eat at me for weeks! I must prevail! I must prevail!
Scene that absolutely destroyed me! (chapter 70, pages 222-223)
" You hate me, don't you?" LJL's voice was shaking. "I've always treated you well... But you hate me. Why?!... You want to kill me?... Then do it! Go ahead! Stab me right here! You can take the heart lamp back! Take it!".. Tears streamed down his face... Pressing the knife to his own chest... HJ threw his arms around him, burying his face... As he burst into hysterial tears.
🤯 Volume 3 Review Recap 😭 This volume was truly a whirlwind of emotions! I could barely wrap my head around everything that happened at first, but damn that reveal—I was not expecting it! I also wasn't expecting how sad this volume was; it's been so happy and funny with plenty of action, so the angst just hit me differently this time.
Hongjun, my boy, I want to hold you and let you know how much we all love you! Your emotions and feeling are valid, your anxiety's and worries. Li Jinglong, the care you have for Hongjun is absolutely heartwarming. Everyone just cares for each other, and I love it so much!
I don't think I'm going to say much more about my review on Volume 3. It has a lot of spoilers and big plot points I don't want to share, as I want others to be shocked and surprised just like I was. If anyone wants to talk about it with me, I'm 100% down! Happy reading! 🥰🤍
Staying up past 3am was so worth finishing this book. Another one that proves why FTYX & TBFYL are my favorites.
I knew that the confessions were coming soon as I listened to it through the audio drama. But the way it was translated was beautiful. Getting through the angst & confusion was sometimes difficult.. but Li Jinglong & Hongjun have been my most favorite danmei couple since I’ve started reading the genre.
I love how open LJL became towards the end of the book with just flat out (playfully) calling Hongjun out. “You like, Gege?” 🙈 the way LJL talks to Hongjun.. about Hongjun.. taking responsibility for Hongjun. powering through until the second half of the novel is truly worth it. Not only because of the main couple, but with LX & Mergen. LX is a damn spitfire 😅 I also adore that Hongjun has found LX to be his personal confidant. I can’t wait to see them grow through the last two novels!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This volume was packed full of twists, lore drops, and feelings of longing. The Department of Exorcism members are once again reunited, with the addition of new members.
We have not one, but two relationships in the making within the department. One of which has been set in stone for centuries: the grey wolf and the white deer. Only this time Mergen is shocked to find out that the white deer isn’t a woman as it usually is, and is instead a man: Lu Xu. He struggles a little with this newfound information, and so far Lu Xu doesn’t seem fully interested in exploring a relationship yet. I don’t think it’ll take long before they get together. Let’s go gays!
Our other relationship in the making is none other than Hongjun and Li Jinglong.
“The young Li Jinglong was the first friend he’d made after coming to Chang’an last year—the only friend he’d ever had.”
It turns out that Hongjun and Li Jinglong had met in childhood, but had their memories erased after an incident occurred. This put some tension in their relationship throughout this volume on Hongjun’s behalf.
If that wasn’t hard enough for Hongjun to grapple with, finding out that the demon seed of Mara has been inside him all along was the cherry on top. We’re led to believe that Li Jinglong’s Sword of Wisdom is fated to kill Hongjun, but I think we all know that Li Jinglong won’t have any of that. He has sworn to protect Hongjun and has stated that he’s the most important person to him. Instead I think we will see Li Jinglong do something self-sacrificial. The question is what will he do and can any of this benefit Hongjun since the demon seed is ingrained in his very being?
“Li Jinglong’s mouth was scorching and soft at once. The moment their lips touched, the world around them fell silent on that spring night. A ray of white light seemed to pierce the darkness to illuminate Hongjun’s soul.”
“Hongjun finally understood the appeal of kissing. It was like every flower in the moonlit city was blooming at once, a bursting vitality that swirled through the air around them.”
Alas the love confession we have all been waiting for had come to be through a song played by Li Jinglong followed by a kiss (which the entire department watched with interest).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
“The way snow melts into water that seeps into the soil; the way a drop of water falls into a stream, which feeds into a river, a lake, or an ocean. After death, you will no longer distinguish between yourself and the world.”
Sevenseas doesn't always get it right with danmei covers, but this one is a knockout. In fact, every cover in the Legend of Exorcism series so far has been gorgeous, and Vol. 4 is no exception—lush, dramatic, and totally frame-worthy. It’s a fitting face for a volume that feels like a creative high point. Where earlier entries (especially Vol. 2) had moments that felt uneven, this one tightens its grip, balancing myth-heavy plotlines with real emotional payoff. There’s an elegance to how the story builds—layer by layer, not in leaps—and it rewards you for staying with it.
The emotional depth here is quietly stunning. Kong Hongjun continues to be one of the most vulnerable, brave, and emotionally complex leads in fantasy, and his growth never feels forced. Li Jinglong remains a calm, grounding force, his quiet loyalty and restraint giving their bond real texture. Their relationship is still slow-burn, but it’s no longer just subtext—it’s charged with mutual care, quiet longing, and moments that land with actual weight. It’s romance that speaks in silences and stares, one that aches more than it declares, and that’s exactly what makes it work.
The writing hits a sweet spot between lyrical and sharp, moving between brutal flashbacks, emotional reflection, and tense action with control and clarity. There are still pacing dips—especially when switching between the more surreal or court-heavy scenes—but they’re brief. The prose carries an emotional rhythm that feels both poetic and grounded. This series doesn’t shout to be heard; it lingers, insists, and finally lands with a quiet punch. Vol. 4 might not be perfect, but it’s beautifully told, emotionally rich, and easily the strongest entry so far.
Well I'm officially in love with this series. So much happens in this volume that's genuinely shocking and heartbreaking. We've spent so much time getting to know these characters that when the angst hits, it hurts deeply.
There are still light moments, but the overall feel of this volume is much more intense than the previous ones. It all culminates in some decisions that will inevitably shape the rest of this series.
One of which is the most adorable love confession scene between Li Jinglong and Hongjun, a scene so perfectly them. They go through a lot in this volume but they repeatedly affirm their loyalty and devotion to each other. They are so in love and deserve only good things. Of course with five volumes left, I'm sure it will not be all good things, but I know we'll get there in the end.
Oof, the first part of this story was heavy. No more carefree Hongjun 😩 Don't let the nightmares take your beautiful soul. We have a lot more battles and perils in this one, but I know Hongjun and Li Jinglong will make it through somehow because, yay, that ending!! 👀
I’m not sure exactly what’s wrong with me—but, I believe this story can fix me.
I LOVE everything about this series!
This is one of my most delightful and magical danmei—or, really, just fantasy series—I’ve ever read. The world is so immersive and the mythology so expansive—it’s just captivating in every way!
Plus, I SO appreciate that this is a danmei with an actual, coherent plot. (It can be done, girlies.) There are stakes that actually matter and elevate the reading experience here.
And, OF COURSE, the romance is EVERYTHING.
Hongjun and Li Jinglong are my babies—I wish that nothing bad ever happens to these precious boys. They deserve so much love and tenderness—and I hope they find it in each other. Their relationship in this volume has me by the THROAT.
Chapter 78 renewed my soul. I need it tattooed on my heart.
Also, Mergen and Lu Xu are lowkey growing on me. I really enjoy their dynamic—this venomous-tongued deer and a conciliatory wolf. It’s so funny. Hope they work things out.
Anyway.
This is an easy 5-star read for me.
I HIGHLY recommend this series not only to danmei fans but to fantasy readers, especially those who want an epic queer fantasy read. I think this series is such a great introductory one for readers just starting to dip their toes into danmei.
It’s very much a Chinese story—but, it has some approaches and humor that I think will be very welcome and familiar to a broader audience.
This is a story with broad appeal—and I hope more people discover it soon~
Son tan caoticos y divertidos, no importa cuantas veces lo lea, siempre me generan la misma emoción que tgcf😭🤍 Y las portadas son una adicción, de las mejores que existe🤧🛐
“We’re destined to be together!” Mergen blurted. “Oh? Why didn’t I know about it, then?” Lu Xu looked Mergen up and down. “Who’d want to be destined to be with you?”
Aqui ya empiezan los problemas matrimoniales de Morigen y Luxu jajaja🤣 bueno su “relación” un caos, siempre mis favoritos, son igual de estúpidos 😭 los amo mucho aunque me hicieron (y me hacen) enojar el tira y afloja que tienen en toda la historia
“Hongjun, tell me you like me,” Li Jinglong said with a grin, “and we’ll be together. You’ll never leave me, and I’ll never leave you.”
Jinglong llevandole serenata a Hongjun para confesar su amor?😭 los amo mucho, es una relación TAN sana y bella (con muchos problemas sí, pero no por ellos) y siempre se tienen el uno al otro😭
También aquí aparece la reina, mi mujer ✨ Turandokht ✨ que vino a recuperar a su macho jaja amo a estos dos😭🤍
It was a very exciting and interesting read, a true page turner, but oh boy was Hongjun frustrating throughout a huge chunk of the book.
I understand that all the reveals were a huge shock for him, but damn, he didn't need to punish Jinglong for it.
Oh and Jinglong... Jinglong... what a Saint you are! You didn't deserve the cold shoulder you received. Jinglong is so patient and understanding and caring, my heart broke with him upon his utter hurt and confusion.
The end really made up for the unnecessary heartbreak constructed by MISCOMMUNICATION and ASSUMPTIONS (my pet peeves in books to create drama).
Hongjun... Jinglong deserves to know. It affects him just as much as it affects you... 3.95 stars in total.
vou dar uma pausa na novel nesse volume.. acho que não foi a minha melhor escolha ter começado uma tão extensa assim. eu tive um bom tempo lendo e pretendo revisitar mais pra frente, mas no momento não é o que estou buscando.
ela é bem diferente das outras novels que já li, é simpatica e claramente voltado para um público mais jovem. aliás, se alguém me perguntasse por onde começar nesse mundo, eu recomendaria justamente essa, já que é bem friendly (até a pessoa descobrir que tem mais de 200 capítulos <3)
"Stay, talk to me. We haven't seen each other in so long. Didn't you miss me?"
totalmente obsesionado con la forma de describir el afecto entre los amigos: se abrazan y duermen juntos y se dicen que se quieren todo el rato y me ha dejado el corazón super calentito
2.3 ⭐️ This instalment was alright in some aspects and kind of flopped in others. Li Jinglong and Hongjun had some really cute moments but a good chunk of their interactions were the consequences of a drawn out miscommunication trope that wasn’t resolved as much as it was forgotten. The whole novel but especially the first half felt like it was rushing from plot point to plot point, which killed the stakes since conflicts were being resolved immediately after they came up (especially the heart demon part, holy crap). I like these characters, I like the lore and whatnot, but this could’ve been another 150 pages.
this volume was my favorite so far and I was already loving everything that was happening. The found family trope continues to bless us!! I love all of them, they're all my family.
mergen and li jinglong truly graduated from the same school... of boy failures <3 I adore them. All the moments between both couples had me kicking my feet and screaming, I want MORE and I want it NOW.
continuing with my trend of loving a side character who stops appearing soon, I'm so sad that
also I'm going to need a spin off about chong ming and qing xiong because everytime they appear I keep hoping those chapter never end.
hongjun clung to him without speaking. suddenly he understood the joy and sorrow, the desolation, anger, and myriad other emotions that had crowded his heart these past days. all of them sprang from his desire to stay with li jinglong always, and his fear of losing what he had. he didn’t know why or how he’d come to feel this way, but the realization was inescapable, like soft feathers covering heaven and earth, landing gently on the most vulnerable part of his heart.
what the hell… this was amazing. i really loved this volume - i devoured this in a few hours randomly this morning. the plot was super interesting and the worldbuilding got even better. the plot twist was a little predictable but, that didn’t detract from its effect and i love how much…. conflict it’s going to bring soon and just the sheer angst of it.
the main and side characters are great and i’m starting to like some fan-favourites (side characters) that i didn’t see the hype for before. but… the romance… that was too good this volume. i loved this combo of the innocence of a first love and angst that comes with what their surroundings are. it had me smiling throughout and i really, really enjoyed it.
i feel like this could become a favourite of mines which is great (especially cause if it does… i can’t wait to collect these beautiful volumes with its beautiful covers). i feel like it’s so rare to see a novel concerning teenagers that’s actually nuanced with proper writing and world building and literally every important element concerning literature (i don’t mean manga, manhua, comics, or manhwa or whatever else - just pure words) and this has it all! which i really like. i can’t wait for the rest of the volumes and can’t believe we are only on 3 of 8... this is highkey addicting and i would’ve just finished it after finishing the very first volume and i wanted to…. if i liked the unofficial translation….
here are my other favourite quotes from this:
hongjun looked up hazily at li jinglong. the rims of li jinglong’s eyes were red; tears were streaming down his face. he tore his robes open with one hand to bare his chest and grabbed hongjun’s wrist with the other, pressing the knife to his own heart.
heaven and earth, the wild landscape, the snowy field, the galaxy spinning above—all was silent save for the sound of their breaths, gentle as the eternal tide.
hongjun stared at the tattoo that marked the left side of his chest: a peacock with its wings elegantly outspread. the tattoo was fucking insane. i don’t know how the mc couldn’t tell the ml’s feelings after the peacock….
mergen shrugged silently. “it has nothing to do with me. sometimes when i see them, i feel happy; other times, i feel sad.” his voice grew softer and softer. “do you understand that feeling? he has someone like hongjun following him around every day, looking at him…with a smile on his face. just like this… look…”
mergen smiled, his eyes shining with affection. “a look like that says, ‘you hold me in your heart, just as i hold you in mine. it’s wonderful to be alive.’” #peak
“then i’ll go with you,” li jinglong said. “whatever your destination, i’ll go with you.” this is some short one sentence shit, but it still moved me…. they’re so devoted to each other in such a pure way.
just another incredible installment in the legend of exorcism series. actually, this is probably my favourite volume so far. the first two are good; they're fun and adventurous and do well to introduce all our main characters. volume 3 is a different beast that I was not prepared for.
we get to explore both hongjun and li jinglong as characters so much more. especially hongjun, who thus far has been a happy-go-lucky young man, always smiling and cheerful. all that gets wrecked with a sledgehammer... he suffers and goes through so much in this book. and it does a really good job of showing how lonely he feels with all the newfound knowledge he has to deal with.
but what I love, and what is important, is that he is not alone. he may feel isolated and scared and confused, but his friends and li jinglong are right there to reassure him that he is loved. they're so sweet and considerate of him. the relationships he has with his friends is genuinely one of the best parts of the book.
while it doesn't help much - he still is dealing with a lot - at the end of this volume, he finally has some peace of mind in facing his turbulent future.
another great part of this book for me was lu xu and mergen - their relationship and bickering and personal conflict. I really do wish they work out in the end.