In The Ancient Times, I, Hou Yi, Would Never Shoot The Sun

In the crowded landscape of Tiên Hiệp web novels, Fu Yi Da Bai E’s In The Ancient Times, I, Hou Yi, Would Never Shoot The Sun offers a refreshing and subversive take on one of Chinese mythology’s most iconic legends. By flipping the script on the tragic hero Hou Yi, the author transforms a destined suicide mission into an exhilarating game of strategic patience and long-term cultivation.

The story’s primary appeal lies in its brilliant use of the "Goudao" (staying low-profile/avoiding conflict) trope. Instead of falling into the trap of becoming a pawn for the Six Saints, the protagonist, Yang Yi, chooses to prioritize his own survival and his love for Chang’e over the grand narrative of the Lich Catastrophe. Watching the most powerful figures in the prehistoric world—from the desperate Yaochi to the cunning Saints—grovel, scheme, and bribe him to perform a heroic act he has no intention of fulfilling provides endless entertainment. The irony is palpable: while the world expects a hero to sacrifice himself, the hero is busy playing the long game to become a god.

This novel excels at building tension through anticipation. As Yang Yi hides away to cultivate in seclusion, the world slowly unravels around him. The author masterfully balances the comedy of the frustrated gods with the high-stakes pressure of a world destined for cataclysm. It is deeply satisfying to see a protagonist reject the "hero’s burden" in favor of absolute self-preservation. When the climax finally arrives and the gods realize that their puppet has surpassed them all, the payoff is nothing short of legendary. If you enjoy overpowered protagonists, witty subversions of mythology, and high-stakes cultivation journeys, this novel is an absolute must-read that turns the concept of destiny on its head.