Chinese Title: (献鱼 / Xiàn Yú)
English Title: When Destiny Brings the Demon
Also known as: Offering Fish, Long for Fish, Offering Salted Fish to Master, Xiang Shi Zu Xian Shang Xian Yu
Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Xianxia, Historical
Episodes: 33
Director: Wen Deguang (The Legend of Heroes)
Screenwriters: Jin Lu, Yan Wen
Based on: Offering Salted Fish to Master (向师祖献上咸鱼) by Fu Hua
Production Companies: Youku, Galaxy Cool Entertainment, Bentu Pictures
Plot Synopsis
Liao Tingyan is an ordinary modern office worker who unexpectedly finds herself transported into a world of spiritual cultivation, awakening in the body of a sect disciple. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she is assigned to serve Sima Jiao, a powerful immortal master who has been sealed within a mountain for 500 years due to his dangerous past.
Initially cold, isolated, and driven by resentment, Sima Jiao has long abandoned emotional connections and personal purpose. However, Liao Tingyan’s easygoing nature and unconventional outlook gradually begin to soften his hardened personality. Through her patience and compassion, she becomes the catalyst for his emotional healing and rediscovery of meaning.
As their relationship deepens, the pair face threats from powerful enemies, hidden identities, and conflicts spanning multiple realms. Unknown to many, Liao Tingyan herself carries secrets tied to the demonic world, complicating their fate even further.
Together, they confront supernatural dangers, navigate betrayal and sacrifice, and ultimately fight to protect their love and restore peace across the immortal, demonic, and human realms.
Main Cast and Characters
LEAD CAST
- Arthur Chen (Chen Feiyu) as Sima Jiao
- Wang Ying Lu as Liao Tingyan / Zou Yan
Supporting Cast
- Wang Yi Ting as Ye Ruling / Hong Luo
- Gao Han as Hei Nian Ju
- Wu Yu Heng as Fengqi
- Wang Ya Jia as Zhi Ming
- Zhao Shun Ran as Mingli
- Qi Pei Xin as Chi An He
- Bao Jian Feng as Shi Qian Lu
- He Zhong Hua as Yuan Che
- Chen Shun Jun as Mu Ni Sheng
- Zeng Li as Sima E [Empress Dowager]
Production Details
The drama is adapted from the popular web novel Offering Salted Fish to Master by Fu Hua, a widely praised xianxia story known for blending humor, emotional depth, and unique character dynamics.
Produced by Youku alongside Galaxy Cool Entertainment and Bentu Pictures, the series features high production values, elaborate costume design, and visually rich digital effects that bring mythical creatures and spiritual realms to life.
The production emphasizes immersive world-building, combining traditional fantasy aesthetics with modern storytelling elements.
Episodes and Airing Information
- Total Episodes: 33
- Episode Length: 45 minutes
- Premiere Date: August 16, 2025
- Final Episode: September 1, 2025
- Original Platform: Youku
Where to Watch
China – Youku (Official domestic streaming platform)
International – Rakuten Viki (available with subtitles in supported regions), and Youku International App (availability varies by region)
Why Watch When Destiny Brings the Demon?
Compelling Storytelling – The drama offers a fresh take on xianxia storytelling, blending humor, emotional growth, and multi-realm conflicts into a meaningful narrative.
Strong Lead Performances – Arthur Chen and Wang Yinglu deliver emotionally nuanced performances, portraying characters whose relationship evolves through healing, sacrifice, and mutual trust.
Immersive World-Building – Detailed fantasy environments, visually stunning effects, and intricate lore create a vibrant and immersive cultivation world.
Emotional and Thematic Depth – The drama explores themes of redemption, personal transformation, love across lifetimes, and the struggle between fate and free will.
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