Li Qiming

Biodata

Feature	Detail
Name	Li Qiming
Alias	None
Species	Human
Gender	Male
Affiliation	Dragon Roar Martial Hall (Registered Disciple, later Chief Elite Disciple) 14 19 72
Status	Alive 118
First Appearance	Chapter 10 10

Background

Li Qiming's early life began in obscurity and poverty, working as a lowly servant at Laifu Restaurant in Dragon Spring City 2 3 4. His circumstances changed dramatically after a mysterious rebirth that left him with the ability to loot corpses, a power he first discovered when a martial artist duel left a body in the restaurant 3. From that first corpse, he gained a "Root Bone" aptitude—the fundamental physical quality determining martial arts potential—which allowed him to move from a mere laborer to a genuine martial artist 3 4. He chose the "Ape Arm Wasp Waist" Root Bone entry, which improved his physique and granted him martial aptitude, and immediately consumed a Fine Essence-Nurturing Pill to break through to the early stage of the Blood Refining Realm in a single day 4. Shortly thereafter, he looted the corpse of Wang Ba, a local thug, and acquired the Tiger Roar Fist entry-level technique, instantly mastering it and experiencing physical changes that earned him a promotion to head laborer at the restaurant 2. Despite his new status, Li Qiming remained humble and dedicated to practice, but he soon realized that his root bone aptitude was still limiting his progress; the advice of Zhang Mingshun, the head chef who had failed in his own martial aspirations, taught him that without a superior root bone, one could only climb so high 3. This drove Li Qiming to seek out the Dragon Roar Martial Hall, the city's premier martial institution, where he could receive proper training 3 10.

He entered the Dragon Roar Martial Hall's assessment as a servant, facing discrimination from disciples like Qi Weiwei, who looked down on his status, but also finding allies in perceptive disciples like Qin Yu, who recognized his martial realm 10. During the assessment, Li Qiming demonstrated exceptional resilience and willpower, withstanding increased pressure from assessor Jiang Daoming and defeating a white-robed young master who had challenged him 12. In the final round, he performed a Tiger Roar Fist at the Perfected level, breaking through to the mid-stage Blood Refining Realm and winning first place 14. This victory secured his position as a Registered Disciple and drew the attention of local gang leaders, all of whom he politely declined 14. As a disciple, Li Qiming continued to hone his skills, practicing the Nine Style Blade Art and the One Blade Style with dedication 18. His reputation grew rapidly as he took on missions and faced increasingly dangerous opponents. A pivotal moment came when he was ambushed by the assassin Shadow Blade; though weaker in realm, Li Qiming turned the tables and killed him, looting a century-level blade talent, Shadow Blade's assassination memories, and ten years of Blood Qi cultivation 25. This encounter shifted Li Qiming's mindset: "He realized the cutthroat nature of the martial arts world, where one must grow stronger quickly to survive. He accepted that he must fight and take risks to progress, marking a shift in his mindset from hiding and training to active pursuit of power" 25.

His motivation for cultivation was further fueled by a combination of survival instinct and ambition. In a world where the strong prey on the weak, Li Qiming understood that only by constantly improving could he protect himself and those he cared about. He showed compassion, lending five taels of silver to Zhang Mingshun to save his daughter from being sold to a brothel 10, but he also embraced the necessity of violence and risk-taking. After unlocking his body's hidden potential during a battle with Demon Sect disciples, he displayed monstrous strength, slaying Bone Refining experts and earning the title of "senior brother" from Qin Yu 33. His feats caught the attention of higher powers: the White-Browed Elder of Kunlun Mountain and Elder Huang of the Dragon Roar Martial Hall both took notice 70 119. Li Qiming learned that the founder of the martial hall, Long Yingtian, had been a prodigy disciple of Kunlun Mountain, and that Kunlun Mountain's True Martial Pagoda held powerful blade intents 70 119. This connection presented both an opportunity and a warning about the dangers beyond Dragon Spring City 119. Li Qiming's talent became undeniable when he comprehended three types of Martial Intent—Dragon Roar Blade Intent, Sword Intent, and Spear Intent—in the True Martial Pagoda, astonishing even the hall's elders 119. His ranking on the Prodigy Ranking as sixth in the world, with the Red Pavilion's evaluation calling him "the greatest talent in history," solidified his status as a peerless prodigy 117 118. However, this recognition came with danger: the Second Prince Gan Chen felt threatened and sent an assassin to eliminate him, while other factions grew wary 118. Li Qiming's motivation thus evolved from simple survival to a desire to master his own fate, to match the expectations placed on him, and to explore the true heights of martial arts—a path that would take him from the back alleys of Dragon Spring City to the legendary Kunlun Mountain 118 119.

Appearance

• Always clad in flowing white robes that stand out against the darkness.
• Wears a bronze mask that entirely conceals her facial features, adding an air of mystery.
• Identifiable as female based on descriptions as a “woman in white.”

The woman in white presents an enigmatic and forbidding figure. Her stark white garments and the expressionless bronze mask create a striking, almost spectral appearance, leaving observers with no clues to her identity or intentions beyond the cold, unyielding surface of the mask 33 36.

Personality

• Kind and Compassionate: Li Qiming demonstrates genuine kindness and compassion, as when he lends five taels of silver to Zhang Mingshun, the head chef of Laifu Restaurant, to save his daughter from being sold to a brothel, showing moral integrity even in a treacherous world 10. He also shows concern for Qi Weiwei's well-being when she follows him, allowing her to accompany him despite his own preoccupations 81.

• Humble and Low-Key: Despite his extraordinary talent and rapid growth, Li Qiming consistently tries to keep a low profile and avoid drawing attention. When Elder Huang and others express astonishment at his comprehension of Dragon Roar Sword, Blade, and Spear Intent, he feels a desire to remain modest 119. He also modestly attributes his progress to luck when Luo Wen notices his advancement to Organ Refining 81.

• Determined and Stubborn: Li Qiming displays fierce determination and stubbornness, especially in his martial arts path. He chooses to learn the One Blade Style despite Elder Huang's discouragement, indicating a strong-willed refusal to be swayed by authority 17. He also shows perseverance by practicing the One Blade Style and the Nine Style Blade Art daily, dedicating himself to improvement even when other disciples are skeptical 18.

• Ambitious and Impatient with Slow Progress: Li Qiming is driven by ambition and a desire to grow stronger quickly. After briefly attempting to comprehend the stone steles at the Martial Hall, he shows impatience with the slow pace of progress and decides to seek faster methods of improvement 81. Following his counter-kill of Shadow Blade, he consciously decides to take greater risks and aggressively pursue power, recognizing that the martial world demands rapid growth 25.

• Confident and Composed Under Adversity: He maintains confidence and composure even when faced with disdain or threats. When Qi Weiwei initially looks down on him due to his servant status, Li Qiming remains calm and unfazed 10. Later, when he fights Zhan Yue, a prodigy ranked sixth on the Prodigy Ranking, he adapts mid-battle and defeats him despite being outmatched on paper 103.

• Respectful of the Strong and Fair-Minded: Li Qiming respects those who acknowledge ability over status. He responds politely to Qin Yu's recognition of his martial arts realm 10. At the Yamen, he treats Head Constable Yan Wu and other officials with respect, and in turn gains their admiration 81. He also acknowledges his own limitations and accepts mentorship from Long Wuhui, showing he values guidance from the strong 119.

• Calculating and Pragmatic: Li Qiming is highly pragmatic, often taking calculated risks to advance. He loots corpses repeatedly to gain entries and cultivation resources, systematically fusing root bones to increase his power 72 103. After killing an opponent, he reflects on the consequences but prioritizes his own growth, accepting the necessities of a cutthroat world 25.

• Indifferent and Detached at Times: Toward individuals he sees as irrelevant or competitors, Li Qiming can be indifferent. He feels no strong emotional response to Mo Su's rivalry, treating it with an air of unconcern 17. Later, when Qi Weiwei's family is destroyed, Li Qiming shows empathy for Murong Canghai but remains largely detached from her plight, focusing on his own path 72.

• Adaptable and Quick-Witted: Li Qiming demonstrates remarkable adaptability in combat and investigation. During his battle with Zhan Yue, he learns a new technique mid-fight and uses it to turn the tables 103. He also displays sharp investigative skills when examining corpses, deducing causes of death and finding crucial evidence, even using his Innate Divine Pupils to explain his perception of demons 51.

Power Progression

Stage	Chapter/Time	Details
Mid-Stage Blood Refining	Chapter 14	After demonstrating a perfected Tiger Roar Fist and winning first place in the Dragon Roar Martial Hall assessment, Li Qiming breaks through to the mid-stage of the Blood Refining Realm 14.
Bone Refining	Chapter 47	Li Qiming visits the Scripture Pavilion, receives a fragment of the Kunlun Mountain Demon Extermination Blade Manual from Elder Huang, and picks up the Discarded Blade from the Weapon Hall. Shortly after, he breaks through to the Bone Refining realm 47.
Late Bone Refining Stage	Chapter 51	Investigating corpses from an incident, Li Qiming activates six-tenths of his essence and reaches the Late Bone Refining Stage. He also comprehends Perfected Blade Momentum 51.
Bone Refining Perfected	Chapter 58	After killing the Soul-Devouring Rat and obtaining the Vajra Demon-Subduing Art, Li Qiming fuses root bones to gain the Indestructible Golden Light Dragon Bone. He then activates all his essence—a feat never before accomplished—and reaches the Perfected stage of Bone Refining 58.
Early Organ Refining Stage	Chapter 72	Looting corpses from recent chaos in the city, Li Qiming fuses root bones to obtain the Succubus Buddha Dragon Bone (a superior root bone). This breakthrough pushes him into the early stage of Organ Refining 72.
Mid-Stage Organ Refining	Chapter 86	After slaying the Dog Demon King and fusing his Blade Dao talents to create the Generation Blade Hero entry, Li Qiming breaks through to the mid-stage of Organ Refining 86.
Late Stage of Aperture Refining	Chapter 116	Following the events of the Gods and Devils Secret Realm and continued cultivation, Li Qiming breaks through to the late stage of Aperture Refining. He only needs to open the Heaven Gate Spirit Point to reach the Perfected stage 116.

Abilities & Techniques

Tiger Roar Fist

The Tiger Roar Fist is a foundational martial technique that Li Qiming first acquired by looting the corpse of Wang Ba, instantly mastering it at the entry level 2. The technique produced immediate physical changes and granted him sufficient combat prowess to defeat Wang Ba's former subordinates, solidifying his new status at Laifu Tavern 2. Later, during the Fist Technique Assessment at the Dragon Roar Martial Hall, Li Qiming demonstrated his mastery of this technique, outperforming the white-robed young master who had challenged him 12. The technique serves as a basic but effective means of close-quarters combat.

• Provided Li Qiming with his first martial ability, allowing him to rise from a laborer to a head laborer 2.
• Used to win the Fist Technique Assessment round, showcasing comprehension and control 12.
• Remained a reliable technique for low-level engagements during his early cultivation.

One Blade Style and Thunder Breathing Method

The One Blade Style is a blade technique that Li Qiming chose to learn at the Dragon Roar Martial Hall, despite Elder Huang's initial discouragement 17. Embedded within the style was the Thunder Breathing Method, a powerful breathing technique created by the founding master Long Yingtian 17. This combination allowed Li Qiming to develop a unique internal energy regulation that enhanced his blade attacks. Elder Huang later tested Li Qiming's progress by demanding he strike him with the One Blade Style within his Domain, indicating the old master's interest in Li Qiming's development 46.

• Selected as his primary blade technique, demonstrating Li Qiming's determination 17.
• Incorporated the Thunder Breathing Method, which provided a foundation for internal energy control 17.
• Tested by Elder Huang, showing its potential to challenge a domain-level expert 46.

Feather Blade Momentum

The Feather Blade Momentum is a blade momentum prototype that Li Qiming obtained by looting a Demon Sect disciple 32. The epic-level entry granted him instant comprehension of the Feather Blade Momentum Prototype, increasing the power of his blade techniques 32. The description estimated that with his existing Level 5 Blade Technique comprehension, he could perfect the true Feather Blade Momentum within five years of diligent practice 32. This ability represented a significant step forward in Li Qiming's blade mastery.

• Granted immediate enlightenment on momentum, enhancing all blade techniques 32.
• Provided a path toward perfecting true blade momentum through continued practice 32.
• Used in combat to gain an advantage over opponents who lacked such momentum.

Strength of an Elephant

The Strength of an Elephant is a hidden talent that Li Qiming awakened after a fierce battle, discovered when he accidentally sent Qin Yu flying with a gentle touch 28. This talent allowed him to punch a Bone Refining Realm martial artist to death with a single blow, astonishing onlookers 28. The immense physical power it granted was a direct enhancement to his raw combat capability.

• Used to instantly defeat a Demon Sect expert in the Bone Refining Realm 28.
• Allowed Li Qiming to dispatch opponents with overwhelming force, saving Brother Wang from danger 28.

Strength of a Tiger

The Strength of a Tiger is a talent entry that Li Qiming chose when facing the second of the Big Iron Towers, who possessed exceptional physical strength 27. This entry provided a temporary increase in strength, enabling Li Qiming to match and defeat his opponent 27. The choice demonstrated his strategic thinking, prioritizing immediate combat power over other options like money or intelligence.

• Selected from looted entries to counter a physically powerful enemy 27.
• Used to overcome the second Big Iron Tower after the first had been killed by Qin Yu 27.

Innate Divine Pupils

Li Qiming revealed that he possessed Innate Divine Pupils, a rare ocular ability that allowed him to see demons and other hidden phenomena 51. He used this as an explanation for his investigative skills when examining corpses, deducing causes and times of death that others could not perceive 51. The ability also aided in his cultivation advancement and comprehension of momentum, as he could perceive subtle details of energy flow.

• Used to investigate the demon-related deaths and uncover crucial evidence like a Buddhist Bead 51.
• Served as a cover for his looting ability, allowing him to explain his uncanny perception 51.

Succubus Buddha Dragon Bone

The Succubus Buddha Dragon Bone was a superior root bone physique that Li Qiming fused from three high-grade root bones: a succubus bone, a Buddha bone, and a dragon bone 72. The fusion significantly boosted his attributes and granted him a charm talent that made him more appealing to women 72. This root bone also allowed him to break through to the Early Organ Refining Stage, increasing his overall cultivation base.

• Enabled breakthrough to Early Organ Refining Stage 72.
• Increased Li Qiming's charm, causing others—like Old Yuan—to notice a change in his presence 72.
• Provided a foundation for further physical enhancement and cultivation.

Fallen Leaves and Wind Flower Snow Moon Blade Intents

These are two distinct blade intents that Li Qiming comprehended and mastered, later using them in combination 103. The Fallen Leaves and Wind Flower Snow Moon Blade Intents were obtained from looting the legendary prodigy Zhan Yue 103. Li Qiming demonstrated remarkable adaptability by learning the technique mid-battle and integrating it with his own Void Blade technique 103 113.

• Used to counter and defeat Chen Shuang's Fear Blade Intent 113.
• Stacked with the Void Blade technique to deliver a killing blow 113.
• Demonstrated Li Qiming's ability to learn and apply high-level techniques under pressure 103.

Void Blade Technique

The Void Blade technique is a combined strike that layers multiple blade intents for devastating effect 113. Li Qiming used it by stacking his Fallen Leaves and Wind Flower Snow Moon Blade Intents, creating a unified attack that overwhelmed Chen Shuang's Fear Blade Intent 113. The technique reflects Li Qiming's growing mastery of intent and his ability to synthesize different powers.

• Used to kill Chen Shuang, a powerful opponent wielding Fear Blade Intent 113.
• Showed the synergistic power of combining multiple blade intents into a single technique 113.

Dragon Roar Sword Intent, Blade Intent, and Spear Intent

Within the True Martial Pagoda, Li Qiming successfully comprehended the Dragon Roar Sword Intent, Blade Intent, and Spear Intent left by the Founder 119. The event was marked by the manifestation of three Azure Dragon phantoms, astonishing witnesses like Shen Changsheng and Jiang Wu 119. This achievement demonstrated Li Qiming's extraordinary talent across multiple weapon disciplines.

• Comprehended all three intents in a single session within the True Martial Pagoda 119.
• Earned the recognition and awe of the Divine Weapon's guardian, though it remained hesitant 119.
• Provided Li Qiming with a versatile arsenal of martial intents for different combat scenarios.

Kunlun Mountain Demon Extermination Blade Manual General Outline · Volume One Fragment

This divine blade technique was bestowed upon Li Qiming by the witch A-Lian after he demonstrated exceptional sword talent using a Limit-Breaking Technique 40. The manual was extremely complex, and Li Qiming initially struggled to understand it. He decided to use his "Centennial Swordsman" trait as a cheat to aid comprehension 40. The technique held immense potential but required deep study.

• Given by A-Lian as recognition of Li Qiming's talent 40.
• Required the use of a cheat (Centennial Swordsman) to begin comprehension 40.
• Represented a rare divine-grade technique that could elevate Li Qiming's blade skills 40.

Wise Brain

The Wise Brain is a rare intellect entry that Li Qiming considered but did not choose from a looted corpse 27. It granted a pure heart and incredible focus, allowing the user to learn any martial art with half the effort. However, the drawback was that it limited focus to one thing at a time, making the user "slightly dull regarding other matters" 27. This trade-off influenced Li Qiming's decision to prioritize different entries.

• Presented as an option when looting, but Li Qiming chose Strength of Two Oxen and One Tiger instead 27.
• Highlighted the importance of weighing benefits and drawbacks when acquiring new abilities 27.

Centennial Swordsman

The Centennial Swordsman is an epic-level Blade Dao talent entry that Li Qiming obtained from looting a Demon Sect disciple, alongside the Feather Blade Momentum 32. This talent significantly enhanced his blade aptitude and was later used as a cheat to help comprehend the Kunlun Mountain Demon Extermination Blade Manual 40. It represented a major boost in his blade technique mastery.

• Looted from a Demon Sect disciple along with the Feather Blade Momentum 32.
• Used to accelerate comprehension of the divine blade technique given by A-Lian 40.

Fear Blade Intent

The Fear Blade Intent was an ability belonging to Chen Shuang, which Li Qiming looted after killing him 113. This intent specialized in instilling fear in opponents, but Chen Shuang's attack was deflected by Li Qiming's white lotus in his Sea of Consciousness 113. After looting the entry, Li Qiming gained the ability to use Fear Blade Intent himself.

• Looted from Chen Shuang's corpse after defeating him 113.

Relationships

Li Qiming and Zhang Mingshun

Li Qiming’s earliest and most steadfast ally is Zhang Mingshun, the head chef of Laifu Restaurant. Their relationship begins when Zhang kindly explains the concept of “Root Bone” aptitude to Li Qiming, revealing his own failed martial arts aspirations 3. This creates a friendly, mentor-like rapport. When Li Qiming witnesses a gruesome execution and demonic possession, he prioritizes Zhang’s safety, fleeing with him and later tending to his illness 6. Their bond deepens when Li Qiming, upon learning Zhang’s daughter is about to be sold to a brothel, lends him five taels of silver without hesitation, demonstrating both kindness and moral integrity 10. Throughout these early chapters, Zhang is a grounding figure who benefits from Li Qiming’s protection and generosity.

Li Qiming and Long Wuhui

Long Wuhui is a senior figure in the Dragon Roar Martial Hall and becomes Li Qiming’s mentor. After Li Qiming comprehends three types of Martial Intent left by the Founder, Long Wuhui is overjoyed and proud, but he also worries about Li Qiming’s safety in the outside world 119. Their relationship is one of genuine concern and guidance: Long Wuhui hopes that Li Qiming and Shen Changsheng will look out for each other when they join Kunlun, and he warns Li Qiming about the harshness of the world beyond Dragon Spring City 119. This mentor–disciple dynamic is marked by Long Wuhui’s pride in Li Qiming’s talent and his protective instincts.

Li Qiming and Qin Yu

Qin Yu, a disciple of the Dragon Roar Martial Hall, first encounters Li Qiming during the servant martial arts assessment. When Qi Weiwei looks down on Li Qiming due to his status, Qin Yu intervenes, acknowledging Li Qiming’s martial arts realm and predicting they may become fellow disciples 10. This respectful recognition establishes a foundation of mutual respect. Later, Qin Yu kills one of the Big Iron Towers, an enemy with exceptional physical strength, and Li Qiming subsequently defeats the other brother 27. Though their direct interactions are limited, Qin Yu is an early ally who treats Li Qiming as an equal despite his servant background.

Li Qiming and Wang Jie

Wang Jie, the grandson of Shopkeeper Wang, becomes Li Qiming’s guide when he joins the Dragon Roar Martial Hall. Wang Jie patiently explains the hall’s tasks, contribution points, and facilities, showing kindness and respect despite Li Qiming’s higher cultivation realm 15. He leads Li Qiming to the Scripture Pavilion and helps him choose his first martial art, acting as a friendly and helpful presence 16. Their relationship is one of sincere assistance, with Wang Jie providing essential orientation and camaraderie in the early days of Li Qiming’s martial arts career.

Li Qiming and Qi Weiwei

Qi Weiwei, a disciple of the Dragon Roar Martial Hall, initially regards Li Qiming with disdain because of his servant status 10. She is only silenced when Qin Yu points out Li Qiming’s realm. Later, Qi Weiwei’s character undergoes a dramatic change when her family is threatened by the Three Swordsmen. After her father’s death and betrayal by her uncle, she agrees to marry the Three Swordsmen on the condition that they kill every member of the Qi Family, including herself, a decision born of trauma and resolve 73. While Li Qiming is not directly involved in this later event, this trajectory shows the harsh world Li Qiming navigates, and the potential for former adversaries to become cautionary examples.

Li Qiming and Shen Changsheng

Shen Changsheng is a fellow martial artist who, like Li Qiming, is about to join the Kunlun faction. Long Wuhui expresses hope that they will look out for each other 119. In the Secret Realm, Shen Changsheng is part of the group following Li Qiming’s lead, trusting his decisions to safely reach the Heaven and Earth Pagoda 100. He supports Li Qiming’s strategic thinking and works alongside him, contributing to the group’s cohesion. Their relationship is that of comrades-in-arms, built on mutual respect in dangerous circumstances.

Li Qiming and Han Tianjun

Han Tianjun emerges as a significant companion during the Secret Realm expedition. After accepting the Ancient Sword Dao Inheritance, he expresses gratitude to Li Qiming and shows intention to repay him 96. He leads the group toward super inheritances and later supports Li Qiming’s decision-making, following his guidance to avoid Yin Soldiers 100. Li Qiming suspects Han Tianjun might be the Child of Destiny, a being of extraordinary luck, which creates a mix of admiration and wariness 96. Nonetheless, their relationship is cooperative and mutually beneficial, with Han Tianjun’s inheritance complementing Li Qiming’s overwhelming strength.

Li Qiming and Jiang Wu

Jiang Wu initially views Li Qiming as a competitor. When Li Qiming comprehends three types of Martial Intent, Jiang Wu feels unwilling and despairing, but he later accepts the gap in talent and comes to admire Li Qiming 119. This evolution from rivalry to respect highlights the theme of recognizing one’s limitations. While they are not close friends, Jiang Wu’s change in attitude demonstrates the impact of Li Qiming’s extraordinary abilities on those around him.

Li Qiming and Chen Shuang

Chen Shuang is a persistent enemy who harbors a deep hatred for Li Qiming. After failing to control the Yin Soldiers like Li Qiming did, Chen Shuang nearly dies while Li Qiming sails to safety 106. Chen Shuang obtains an Inheritance Power that allows him to grow stronger through slaughter, making him an ongoing threat 106. In the Secret Realm, he manipulates young experts alongside Gan Duoduo, using his knowledge of maps to his advantage 97. Their interactions are marked by Chen Shuang’s obsessive quest for revenge and Li Qiming’s dismissive attitude toward him.

Li Qiming and A-Lian (the Demoness)

A-Lian is a mysterious and powerful figure who has left behind a marked route through the Yin Soldier Wilderness specifically for Li Qiming 100. Her token allows him to command Yin Soldiers and navigate safely 106. Li Qiming demonstrates loyalty and determination to help her, leaping onto a Tower Ship to reach her 106. The group discusses her past struggles and mental state, indicating a complex history 100. Their relationship is one of distant yet significant connection: she has aided him from afar, and he in turn is willing to risk his life for her.

Li Qiming and Shadow Blade (Enemy Relation)

Shadow Blade is an assassin who pursues Li Qiming through a forest after Li Qiming flees from an earlier confrontation. Li Qiming initially fears for his life, using his Swallow Skimming Grass technique to evade, but his blade breaks against Shadow Blade’s superior weaponry 24. Through endurance and the Flood Dragon Bloodline’s recovery ability, Li Qiming outruns and eventually turns to confront Shadow Blade, overwhelming the exhausted assassin 24. The dynamic shifts from predator–prey to reversal of fortune, showcasing Li Qiming’s resourcefulness and resilience against a determined enemy.