Lin Ye

Biodata

Feature	Detail
Name	Lin Ye 1 17 69
Alias	Ye 12138 (used during the ranking competition) 69
Other Nicknames	“Madman Brother” and “Groin-Striker Brother,” names associated with the combat style of his Fenglei Tower projection 131
Cultivation Stage	Mid-Stage Blood-Qi Realm 219
Blood Qi Value	1,050 219
Primary Martial Arts Skills	Rolling Stone Fist (Grandmaster level) 17; Mountain-Suppressing Fist (Consummation; comprehended Fist Momentum) 156 220 221; Lost Track Steps (Extreme/Consummation; incorporates the spatial principles of Square Inch and Ripples) 149 156; Thunder Blade (Extreme/Consummation; later advanced to Version 3.0) 131 156 191; Eight Desolations Steps: Dash (evolved form) 185; Heavenly Wind Blade 168 219
Cultivation Technique	Fenglei Breathing Technique, Bone Tempering portion (Great Mastery) 219
Affiliation	Student at Wind-Thunder Martial University (also referred to as Fenglei Martial University) 48 69
High School Teacher	Zheng Huai 1 19 22
University Teacher / Advocate	Zhou Ting 48 82 83 221
Special Status	Special recruit of Wind-Thunder Martial University; selected for the key cultivation resources program 48 19 22
Special Ability	Possesses a proficiency panel and Potential Points, which can temporarily increase cultivation efficiency and raise a martial art’s upper limit 3 156
Notable Achievements	Won four consecutive ranking-competition matches under the alias Ye 12138; defeated Zhou Yan; defeated a Peak Body Forging opponent; cleared the sixteenth floor of Fenglei Tower; created exclusive projections for Fenglei Tower; saved three second-year students from a Star-Mane Wolf pack; defeated Zhou Chong with Mountain-Suppressing Fist and revealed Fist Momentum 69 70 165 187 159 221
Preferred Weapon	Long blade; later exchanged hunting points for a deluxe Thunder-Roar Blade 103 191

Physical Description

Lin Ye is a lean and muscular young man, his physique honed through relentless training in the Gravity Chamber and Martial Arts Hall. In the midst of a session, his training suit is often soaked through with sweat, clinging to his increasingly defined frame, with a small patch of dark sweat stains left on the floor beneath him 26. His movements, though stiff during his early attempts at the Basic Body Tempering Fist, gradually became fluid and precise as his skill level rose, reflecting the dedication he pours into every stance and strike 5. During combat, his posture is composed and calm; his sharp gaze carries an intensity that causes opponents to avoid eye contact, and his presence on the battlefield is marked by a quiet, intimidating aura that sows fear and panic among those who face him 82 85. In virtual arenas and ranking tournaments, where his physical attributes are constrained to the mid-stage of Body Tempering, his body retains the same unyielding efficiency and control, moving with the fluid precision of someone who has mastered his own frame 28 37.

As a Blood-Qi Realm martial artist, Lin Ye’s posture is described as straight as a blade, and even older students initially mistake him for someone of their own age rather than a first-year student 159. When entering the Star Realm, he wears a deep-gray Fine-grade Battle Suit fitted with lightweight alloy plating that protects vital areas without restricting his mobility 157.

• Build: Lean and increasingly muscular, with a body shaped by consistent training in the Gravity Chamber and recovery rooms 26.
• Appearance during training: Sweat-soaked training suit, damp patches on the floor from prolonged practice 26.
• Movement: Initially stiff and stiff (in early practice of Basic Body Tempering Fist), but later becomes smooth, precise, and seamlessly flowing 5 26.
• Facial expression: Composed and calm during fights, showing no emotion even when overwhelming opponents 82 85.
• Gaze: Sharp and intimidating, causing others to flinch or avoid looking directly at him 82.
• Posture: Upright and grounded, reflecting mastery of the Primordial Stance and other foundational techniques 30.
• Combat presence: Appears ordinary at first glance, but when he moves or strikes, his form conveys heavy momentum and brutal efficiency 48 85.
• Star Realm equipment: Wears a Fine-grade Battle Suit and carries a Fine-grade long blade or Thunder-Roar Blade during dangerous field operations 157 191.

Personality and Traits

Lin Ye’s personality is defined by a quiet, unyielding resolve that transforms initial self-doubt into disciplined action. He begins his journey burdened by the weight of an average Blood Qi Value and the suffocating expectations of society, feeling “a deep sense of unwillingness and confusion” about his future 2. Yet rather than surrender to resignation, he channels that frustration into a relentless work ethic. Lin Ye does not rely on talent or resources; he builds his strength through consistent, daily effort—six hours of martial arts training, late-night practice in the Martial Arts Pavilion, and methodical repetition of stances and techniques 61 7 12. His teacher Zheng Huai recognizes this quality, describing him as “the type of spark that can set the entire wasteland ablaze” 19. Underpinning his persistence is a calm, strategic mind: in battle he analyzes opponents, adapts his footwork and blade techniques, and remains composed even when surrounded or facing higher-realm foes 70 82 31. Lin Ye also demonstrates humility and gratitude, respecting his teacher’s guidance and acknowledging the support of peers and family 19 30. He values mentorship and mutual respect, as seen when he exchanges well-wishes with fellow martial artists 30. While initially he hides his training from his mother to avoid worry, he later maintains a caring relationship with her, balancing his ambition with familial duty 7 61. His courage is tested when he chooses to engage Rending Claw Beasts alone, trusting in his blade technique and Lost Track Steps 103. Overall, Lin Ye’s personality is a fusion of perseverance, adaptability, and quiet confidence—a young man who finds his path not in grand declarations but in “the daily steps and blade light” 61.

As his strength rises, Lin Ye remains practical rather than reckless. He refuses to challenge Fenglei Tower’s eighth floor after defeating a difficult seventh-floor guardian because he sees no reason to risk his life merely for points 165. Conversely, when he does decide to challenge the sixteenth floor, he consciously chooses to confront the danger rather than yield to fear, believing that martial challenges must be met with courage and relentless advance 187. He is also cooperative with the university when his projections cause widespread distress, accepting the school’s request to give advance notice before clearing new levels 126.

• Diligent: Lin Ye devotes himself to a fixed routine of training, often the last to leave the Martial Arts Hall, and practices for hours even on the eve of major exams 12 89. He breaks through to Mastery and Perfection grades of techniques through sheer repetition 61 30 31.
• Humble: Despite rapid progress and recognition—ranking 7th in his class and becoming a priority cultivation candidate—he remains calm and polite, accepting congratulations without arrogance 21 19.
• Strategic: In combat, he adjusts his tactics based on opponents’ styles, using Lost Track Steps to create openings and Thunder Blade for decisive strikes 70 82 31. He also plans his resource use and training priorities carefully 30 89.
• Resilient: Facing self-doubt and the difficulty of the Lost Track Steps, he pushes through with determination, declaring “So What If It Is Difficult?” 27. He persists through six failed attempts at the Primordial Stance until reaching Proficient 7.
• Courageous: He volunteers to engage dangerous beasts alone to protect his group, showing confidence in his abilities 103. On the Wasteland, he stands his ground against multiple opponents, intimidating them into retreat 82.
• Focused: Lin Ye prioritizes his martial path, choosing to eat nourishing meals and forgo distractions 4. He is self-aware, knowing when to shift focus between training and academics 31.
• Patient: He approaches the Fenglei Tower with a methodical mindset, expecting to face the phantom version of himself repeatedly, and does not rush for instant gratification 92.
• Grateful and Respectful: He expresses sincere thanks to his teacher Zheng Huai for advocating for him and respects peers like Chen Mo and Li Weiwei 19 27 30. He also maintains a supportive friendship with Wang Tao and Zhang Zhen 12 61.
• Adaptable: Whether against a higher-realm opponent like Night Rain Sword North or a group of Rending Claw Beasts, Lin Ye modifies his strategies on the fly, demonstrating combat flexibility 70 103.
• Pragmatic: He balances ambition with risk, declining unnecessary Tower challenges while committing fully when a challenge is meaningful to his martial path 165 187.
• Responsible: He agrees to cooperate with Fenglei after his projection’s combat behavior affects other students and accepts advance-notice arrangements for future tower challenges 126.

Background

Lin Ye grew up in a lower-middle-class household in Linjiang District, where financial constraints were a constant undercurrent in daily life. His mother, Wang Xiulan, worked hard to provide for him and often expressed quiet regret that they could not afford proper celebrations for important milestones—she apologized to him on his eighteenth birthday for being unable to hold a proper celebration 2. His father, Lin Jianguo, was determined to support Lin Ye’s ambitions despite the family’s limited means, quietly taking on extra shifts at work even at the cost of his own health, a sacrifice that underscored the family’s pride and sense of responsibility 23. The financial strain meant that every resource for martial arts training—medicinal baths, nutritional supplements, even extra practice time—came at a real cost, and Lin Ye was acutely aware of the burden his pursuits placed on his parents 23. That awareness shaped his choices: he hid his early martial arts training from his mother, claiming he was studying late at school rather than practicing stances, because he did not want her to worry about the physical strain or the hidden costs of his dedication 7.

Society in Lin Ye’s world placed a premium on Blood Qi Value—a metric that determined not only academic and career prospects but also social standing. By his final year of high school, Lin Ye’s Blood Qi was stubbornly average, a reality that his classmates had already accepted as their lot. Most of them planned to take the liberal arts track in the upcoming college entrance exam, resigned to the idea that without a high Blood Qi Value they could never hope to enter a competitive martial arts university 2. Lin Ye himself felt the weight of that expectation; he watched students training late into the night in the Martial Arts Pavilion with a pang of envy, and at home he studied past midnight, his mind churning with confusion about his future and the growing sense that he was being left behind 2. Yet he could not bring himself to give in to the same resignation his classmates displayed. Inside, he harbored a deep unwillingness to accept that his path was already set in stone—a spark of ambition that would soon find its fuel.

That spark ignited on his eighteenth birthday. During morning martial arts practice at school, as he held the Primordial Stance—one of the most basic and grueling foundational postures—Lin Ye suddenly perceived a proficiency panel floating before his eyes, a strange phenomenon he had never encountered before 3. The panel displayed the stance’s proficiency level, and he realized that by maintaining the correct posture he could actively increase that proficiency, turning what had been an abstract and painfully slow grind into a measurable, trackable process 3. That discovery felt like a lifeline. For the first time, Lin Ye saw a concrete, step-by-step path to improving his martial arts skills, a way to overcome the mediocrity of his initial Blood Qi through sheer, persistent effort. The panel gave him hope and a quantifiable goal.

That same day, he made the decision: he would train. He would dedicate himself to martial arts with everything he had, using the panel as his compass. He began practicing the Primordial Stance obsessively, enduring the burning discomfort of maintaining the correct alignment for extended periods, determined to push through to mastery 3. He returned home late that evening, lying to his mother about studying to conceal his newfound regimen, a small but necessary deception born of his desire to shield her from worry while he pursued what he believed was his only chance 7. Over the following weeks, he labored through six failed attempts at the stance before finally breaking through to the Proficient level, an achievement that deepened his understanding of blood and qi circulation and made subsequent stance training feel noticeably easier 7. Each small gain reinforced his resolve, and he began to see a world of possibility beyond the constraints of his average beginnings.

After enrolling at Fenglei Martial University, Lin Ye’s potential panel develops further following his first kill of a Rending Claw Beast. He gains Potential Points, which can either temporarily unlock his physical potential to improve training efficiency or raise the upper limit of a martial art beyond its original limit 156. This discovery becomes central to his subsequent rapid advancement in cultivation, footwork, and blade techniques.

Abilities and Skills

**Primordial Stance and Spirit-Nurturing Stance**

Lin Ye's foundational stance training begins with the Primordial Stance, a basic but essential technique for regulating blood and qi circulation. He initially struggles with the posture, requiring six attempts before breaking through to the Proficient level, after which he gains a profound understanding of how blood and qi flow through his body 7. This breakthrough makes subsequent stance training more efficient. Over the following month, Lin Ye reaches the Proficient level consistently 11. His dedication leads him to train late into the night at the Martial Arts Hall, where he practices the Primordial Stance alongside other fundamentals 5. Ultimately, Lin Ye breaks through to the Perfection stage of the Primordial Stance, at which point he also learns the Spirit-Nurturing Stance, a more advanced posture that builds upon the same circulatory principles 30.

The Spirit-Nurturing Stance later reaches Consummation, becoming one of Lin Ye’s completed foundational arts 156.

• Stance Levels Achieved: Proficient (Chapter 7), Perfection (Chapter 30).
• Spirit-Nurturing Stance: Learned immediately after reaching Perfection in the Primordial Stance; later reaches Consummation 30 156.
• Primary Effect: Deepens understanding and control of blood and qi circulation, improving overall cultivation efficiency 7.
• Training Context: Practiced at home and in the school Martial Arts Hall, often during extra sessions 5 7.

**Rolling Stone Fist**

The Rolling Stone Fist is Lin Ye’s primary fist technique during his early training. It emphasizes rolling momentum and force deflection, allowing him to compensate for lower raw blood qi by using superior technique 15. Lin Ye first reaches the Mastery level through intense practice, performing the technique repeatedly until it becomes second nature 8. In a sparring match against his teacher, Zheng Huai, he holds his own for several exchanges using his Mastery-level Rolling Stone Fist 10. Within a month, he progresses to the Great Success level, demonstrating consistent improvement 11. During a virtual trial, he executes the technique at Great Success and uses force-deflection to clear the first three stages 15. After another period of focused training, he perfects the Rolling Stone Fist, unlocking a more advanced technique 26. He also touches upon the deeper essence of the fist during a high-pressure trial, landing a powerful blow that impresses evaluators 16.

By the ranking tournament, Lin Ye’s command of the Rolling Stone Fist has reached Grandmaster level, allowing him to defeat a stronger opponent who only possesses a Mastery-level understanding of the same technique 17.

• Technique Levels: Mastery (Chapter 8), Great Success (Chapter 11), Perfection (Chapter 26), Grandmaster (Chapter 17).
• Key Features: Rolling momentum, force-deflection abilities, compensates for lower cultivation 8 15.
• Breakthrough Bonus: Perfecting the Rolling Stone Fist unlocks the Mountain-Suppressing Fist 26.
• Notable Usage: Used in sparring against Teacher Zheng Huai (Chapter 10), in the district mock exam trial (Chapter 15), and in the virtual arena (Chapter 16).

**Mountain-Suppressing Fist**

After perfecting the Rolling Stone Fist, Lin Ye unlocks the Mountain-Suppressing Fist, a more powerful martial art that represents a sublimation of his previous fist technique 26. He first tests this new technique in the virtual combat game Martial Arts, winning all five of his initial ranking matches and earning the Black Iron II rank 28. Opponents react strongly to the technique’s power, indicating its formidable nature 28. In the sixth round of an entrance examination, Lin Ye uses the Mountain-Suppressing Fist to defeat his fifth-round opponent and then employs it against Zhou Lang, a skilled examinee from Linhai City. Although Zhou Lang’s superior Blood Qi and the Nine-Layer Overlapping Wave Palm initially give him an advantage, Lin Ye’s Mountain-Suppressing Fist allows him to hold his own for a significant duration 42. The technique is described as carrying a mountain-like weight and momentum.

Mountain-Suppressing Fist later reaches Consummation. During his match against Zhou Chong, Lin Ye employs the Mountain-Tilting Form and reveals that he has comprehended Fist Momentum, overwhelming his opponent with crushing pressure and force 156 220 221.

• Unlock Requirement: Achieved after perfecting the Rolling Stone Fist 26.
• Combat Applications: Used in virtual ranking matches, the district entrance exam tournament, and against Zhou Chong 28 42 220.
• Power Level: Described as highly impactful, drawing reactions from opponents and audience; effective even against higher-cultivation opponents 28 42.
• Later Development: Reaches Consummation and manifests Fist Momentum through the Mountain-Tilting Form 156 220 221.

**Lost Track Steps**

Lin Ye selects the Lost Track Steps as his primary footwork technique after being accepted into the Key Cultivation Program, which grants him borrowing privileges for D-Grade and below martial arts 24. He chooses this technique specifically for its short-distance maneuvering and erratic footwork, which complement his existing fist techniques 24. After breaking through to the Perfection stage of the Primordial Stance and learning the Spirit-Nurturing Stance, Lin Ye plans to focus the next three days on mastering the Lost Track Steps 30. In practical combat, the footwork proves highly effective: he uses it to dodge and counterattack against multiple opponents on the Wasteland, defeating one in a single strike and causing the others to flee 82. In a ranking tournament, his superior footwork and evasive maneuvers allow him to outmaneuver opponents like Zhou Yan, who has a higher Blood Qi level, and secure victories 69. He also combines the Lost Track Steps with his blade techniques to defeat opponents at the Peak Body Forging Stage 70.

Lin Ye reaches Mastery before the college entrance examination, learning to use visual deception, rhythm changes, and afterimages to mislead enemies 31. The technique later reaches Great Success, then Consummation/Extreme, giving him the ability to act within a “square inch” of space and anticipate opponents’ attacks 103 116 126. During his battle with Li Zhen, teachers identify his understanding of the spatial principles of Square Inch and Ripples, which let him read spatial disturbances and predict attacks outside the technique’s conventional range 149.

• Technique Type: Short-distance maneuvering footwork with erratic, unpredictable movement 24.
• Acquisition: Borrowed under the Key Cultivation Program’s martial arts privilege 24.
• Combat Role: Primarily used for dodging, evasion, prediction, and creating counterattack opportunities 69 70 82 149.
• Mastery-Level Features: Visual deception, rhythm deception, afterimages, rapid directional changes 31.
• Consummation-Level Features: Square Inch spatial principle and predictive combat movement; later identified as also containing Ripples 116 149.
• Notable Achievements: Allowed Lin Ye to defeat higher-realm opponents, clear Fenglei Tower’s eighth floor, and overcome Li Zhen’s Wind-Thunder Palm combination 70 116 149.

**Thunder Blade**

Thunder Blade becomes Lin Ye’s principal blade art after high school. He reaches Mastery Grade through six hours of daily martial arts practice and continues to prioritize its advancement alongside Lost Track Steps 61. The technique develops into a decisive weapon in the university ranking competition, where Lin Ye uses it with Lost Track Steps to defeat Night Rain Sword North, a Peak Body Forging Stage opponent 70.

Thunder Blade later reaches Great Success, enabling Lin Ye to cut down first-order Rending Claw Beasts while maintaining mobile combat through Great Success Lost Track Steps 107 116. After breaking its limit, it reaches Extreme/Consummation and grants Lin Ye the finishing move Instant Prison Thunder Mark 131. Lin Ye subsequently raises its upper limit to Thunder Blade Version 3.0 through Potential Points, continuing to advance its proficiency and deepening his understanding of thunder principles 191 196.

• Technique Levels: Mastery (Chapter 61), Great Success (Chapter 116), Extreme/Consummation (Chapter 131).
• Advanced Form: Thunder Blade Version 3.0, unlocked by raising its upper limit with Potential Points 191.
• Named Moves: Thunderbolt Emergence, Lightning Flash, Thunder Splits the Mountain, and Instant Prison Thunder Mark 116 131.
• Combat Role: High-speed offensive blade technique, especially effective when paired with Lost Track Steps 70 116.
• Notable Achievement: Instant Prison Thunder Mark defeats the peak Blood-Qi Realm guardian on Fenglei Tower’s sixteenth floor 187.

**Fenglei Breathing Technique**

As part of Fenglei Martial University’s special-recruit benefits, Lin Ye gains access to breathing technique resources after entering the Blood-Qi Realm 49. He cultivates the Fenglei Breathing Technique, initially focusing on Tendon Refining. Upon reaching Mastery Grade in the tendon-refining portion, his breathing transitions become fluid, his meridians circulate energy more freely, and his Blood Qi rises past 630 142.

After breaking through to the Mid-Stage Blood-Qi Realm, Lin Ye begins the Bone Tempering portion. Through continued training, it reaches Great Mastery and helps raise his Blood Qi to 1,050 184 219.

• Tendon Refining: Reached Mastery Grade, elevating Lin Ye’s Blood Qi beyond 630 142.
• Bone Tempering: Began after his Mid-Stage Blood-Qi Realm breakthrough; later reached Great Mastery 184 219.
• Primary Effect: Strengthens the body through systematic tendon and bone refinement while improving blood-qi circulation and cultivation progress 142 184.

**Eight Desolations Steps: Dash**

Lin Ye acquires and trains the Eight Desolations Steps after advancing beyond Lost Track Steps. By dividing his time between it and Heavenly Wind Blade, he reaches Great Mastery after half a month, extending his effective movement range to approximately thirty meters 168. He later reaches Consummation after returning from the Astral Rift 184.

Using Break Limit, Lin Ye witnesses a gale carving a path through the void and evolves the technique into Eight Desolations Steps: Dash. This evolved form improves his short-distance dodging and instantaneous directional changes 185.

• Technique Progression: Great Mastery (Chapter 168), Consummation (Chapter 184), evolved into Eight Desolations Steps: Dash (Chapter 185).
• Primary Effect: Enhances movement range, rapid movement, close-range dodging, and directional changes 168 185.
• Development Method: Accelerated through intensive practice and Potential Point-assisted cultivation 184.

**Heavenly Wind Blade**

Lin Ye purchases the C-Grade Heavenly Wind Blade for 1,800 points because it is a prerequisite for the A-Grade Heavenly Wind Thunder Prison Blade 168. He trains it in tandem with Eight Desolations Steps, later making it one of his central training priorities during preparations for major competitions 184 196. By the later stages of the Rising Star Cup, it stands just short of Great Mastery 219.

• Grade: C-Grade martial art 168.
• Acquisition Cost: 1,800 points 168.
• Purpose: Prerequisite for the A-Grade Heavenly Wind Thunder Prison Blade 168.
• Progress: Near Great Mastery during the Rising Star Cup period 219.

**Potential Points**

Potential Points are acquired through killing Fierce Beasts in the Star Realm. Lin Ye gains his first point after killing a Rending Claw Beast and discovers that they serve two primary functions: temporarily increasing martial arts cultivation efficiency by unlocking personal potential, and raising the upper limit of a martial art 156.

He uses these points to advance his arts beyond their original limits, including Thunder Blade Version 3.0. In the military Star Realm, he also encounters the Evil God Aura system, which awards double Potential Points under certain conditions; collecting 3,000 Evil God Aura would allow his Potential Activation state to be maintained permanently 190 191.

• Acquisition: Earned through Fierce Beast kills in the Star Realm 156.
• Function One: Temporarily increases cultivation efficiency through potential activation 156.
• Function Two: Raises a martial art’s upper limit beyond its original limit 156.
• Related System: Evil God Aura can provide double Potential Points; 3,000 aura can permanently maintain Potential Activation 190.

Power Progression

Stage/Value	Chapter	Notable Achievement
Primordial Stance: Proficient	7	Breakthrough after six attempts, gained profound understanding of blood and qi circulation
Rolling Stone Fist: Mastery	8	Advanced Rolling Stone Fist to Mastery level after dedicated practice in the martial arts hall
Blood Qi: 138 → 218	13	Improved Blood Qi Value from 138 to 218 in just over a month; late Body Tempering Stage reached
Rolling Stone Fist: Great Success	15	Executed Rolling Stone Fist at Great Success level during Virtual Combat trial, scoring 180 total
Blood Qi: 322	14	Achieved highest Blood Qi in class; school average was 257
Blood Qi: 275 (mid-stage Body Tempering)	26	Reached mid-stage Body Tempering after 20 days of training using Gravity Chamber and consistent practice
Rolling Stone Fist: Perfection	26	Perfected Rolling Stone Fist, unlocking the new martial art Mountain-Suppressing Fist
Mountain-Suppressing Fist: Learned	26	Unlocked after Perfecting Rolling Stone Fist; later used to defeat opponents in tournament
Blood Qi: 335	38	Reached sixth stage in afternoon challenge, demonstrating improvement from earlier failures
Ranking Tournament: Rank improved	70	Advanced from rank 1,410,000 to 1,394,287; defeated Peak Body Forging opponent Night Rain Sword North
Blood Qi: 361 → 365	68	After consuming Tier 2 Beast Meat, Blood Qi increased by 4 points in two hours of Thunder Blade practice
Thunder Blade: Proficiency (402/1500)	68	Gained 10 proficiency points in Thunder Blade; Blood Qi increased concurrently
Blood Qi: 373	74	Rose 4 points in 4.5 hours after using Foundation-Building Blood-Qi Pill; residual medicinal power remained
Lost Track Steps: Progression	74	Gained 17 proficiency points in Lost Track Steps during training session
Blood Qi: 402 (Late Body Tempering)	91	Reached Late Body Tempering Stage; cleared sixth floor of Fenglei Tower
Fenglei Tower: 6th floor cleared	91	Defeated guardians with Great Success Grade fist technique; exclusive projection generated for first to third floors
Lost Track Steps: Mastery	31	Mastered visual deception, rhythm changes, and afterimage-based maneuvering
Thunder Blade: Mastery	61	Reached Mastery Grade through six hours of daily practice
Lost Track Steps: Great Success	103	Teachers identify Great Success footwork as the foundation of Lin Ye’s confidence against Rending Claw Beasts
Peak Body Forging Stage	116	Entered the Peak Body Forging Stage and easily surpassed his earlier Fenglei Tower projection
Lost Track Steps: Consummation / Extreme	116	Used Square Inch predictive movement to clear Fenglei Tower’s sixth through eighth floors
Thunder Blade: Great Success	116	Defeated a Blood-Qi Realm seventh-floor guardian through Great Success blade technique and consummate footwork
Thunder Blade: Extreme / Consummation	131	Broke the technique’s limit and obtained Instant Prison Thunder Mark
Fenglei Breathing Technique: Tendon Refining Mastery	142	Reached Mastery Grade and raised Blood Qi beyond 630
Blood-Qi Realm: Initial Stage (635/750)	156	Panel records his entry into the Blood-Qi Realm after Fenglei Breathing Technique advancement
Mountain-Suppressing Fist: Consummation	156	Panel records the fist art at Consummation
Fenglei Tower: 16th floor cleared	187	Defeated a peak Blood-Qi Realm guardian with Instant Prison Thunder Mark
Mid-Stage Blood-Qi Realm	184	Broke through from the initial stage and began Bone Tempering cultivation
Eight Desolations Steps: Consummation	184	Perfected the movement technique after returning from the Astral Rift
Eight Desolations Steps: Dash	185	Broke the technique’s limit, evolving it into a stronger short-range movement art
Thunder Blade Version 3.0	191	Raised Thunder Blade’s upper limit with Potential Points
Fenglei Breathing Technique: Bone Tempering Great Mastery	219	Greatly accelerated cultivation during Rising Star Cup preparations
Blood Qi: 1,050 (Mid-Stage Blood-Qi Realm)	219	Reached 1,050 Blood Qi, only 100 points from the mid-stage limit
Fist Momentum: Comprehended	220	Used Mountain-Suppressing Fist: Mountain-Tilting Form to overwhelm Zhou Chong
Zhou Chong defeated	221	Defeated Zhou Chong in three moves after revealing Fist Momentum

Relationships

Zheng Huai

Zheng Huai, Lin Ye’s martial arts teacher in high school, served as his most active mentor and advocate. He first noticed Lin Ye’s diligence during late-night practice sessions at the Martial Arts Hall, where his skepticism about Lin Ye’s potential was gradually replaced by approval 5. After Lin Ye performed well in the Ranking Tournament, Zheng Huai spoke with the principal to secure key cultivation resources for him, believing Lin Ye was “the type of spark that can set the entire wasteland ablaze” 19. He publicly praised Lin Ye when announcing the final selection list for intensive training and encouraged other students to emulate his dedication 22. However, when Lin Ye failed the expert panel’s assessment for Canglan Martial Arts University due to his low Blood Qi Value, Zheng Huai felt regret and a sense of helplessness, wishing he could do more 47. He later struggled with guilt over Lin Ye’s decision to attend Fenglei instead, until his colleague Sun Hao helped him see the generosity of Fenglei’s offer and the impracticality of Canglan’s resource allocation for commoner students, leading him to feel relief and gratitude 59 60. Throughout, Zheng Huai’s relationship with Lin Ye was marked by genuine care, high expectations, and a willingness to go out of his way for his student’s future.

Zheng Huai continues to follow and praise Lin Ye’s later competition performances, and Lin Ye remains pleased by his former teacher’s approval 216.

Zhou Ting

Zhou Ting is Lin Ye’s university advocate, teacher, and one of the first people to recognize his exceptional potential. He identifies an embryonic form of True Momentum in Lin Ye’s performance and recommends him for Fenglei Martial University’s Special Potential Talent Recruitment Program 45 46. At Fenglei, he continues to monitor Lin Ye’s progress, provides training guidance, and arranges institutional support when Lin Ye needs to prioritize practical cultivation and the Rising Star Cup 196.

Zhou Ting is repeatedly astonished by the speed of Lin Ye’s progress. He confirms that Lost Track Steps has reached Consummation and remarks that Fenglei has not seen comparable martial-art progress in nearly a decade 126. He later explains to Lin Ye that his victory over Zhou Chong demonstrated the comprehension of Fist Momentum 221. The two also travel together to Star Realm garrisons, where Zhou Ting remains attentive to Lin Ye’s safety after his first kill 156.

Zhang Zhen

Zhang Zhen was one of Lin Ye’s close friends and classmates. Their camaraderie included discussing martial arts news, such as the identity of the spear user who defeated Lin Ye in the Ranking Tournament 22. With the college entrance exams approaching, they exchanged notes about their university plans and Lin Ye’s progress in martial arts, showing mutual respect and friendly competition 30. After the exam results were released, Zhang Zhen scored 803, and he displayed maturity and careful consideration when choosing his university. He also understood the significance of Lin Ye’s score of 749 and the benefits Lin Ye had received from Fenglei Martial University, and their interaction reflected a deep mutual respect and understanding 56.

Wang Tao

Wang Tao was a liberal arts student who nevertheless remained a supportive friend to Lin Ye. After Lin Ye’s dramatic improvement in the grand exam—from 24th to 7th in the class—Wang Tao recognized his progress and expressed a desire to improve himself as well 21. On the last day before the college entrance exam, Wang Tao shared his envy of Lin Ye’s martial arts achievements and was inspired by Lin Ye’s suggestion that liberal arts could also contribute to the martial world, sparking a newfound determination in him 29. When Lin Ye received his exceptional score of 749, Wang Tao was enthusiastic and supportive, expressing shock and admiration 56.

Wang Tao remains stunned by the widening gap between himself and Lin Ye when he later witnesses Lin Ye’s overwhelming strength against Zhang Zhen, reflecting on how drastically Lin Ye has changed in a year 171.

Chen Mo

Chen Mo was another top student selected for the school’s key cultivation program alongside Lin Ye 22. Both showed dedication and persistence in training, often practicing late in the Martial Arts Hall. They encountered each other at the Martial Arts Pavilion and exchanged well-wishes for the college entrance exams and prosperity on their martial paths, demonstrating humility and mutual respect despite being rivals 30.

Fang Hao

At Fenglei Martial University, Lin Ye formed a friendship with fellow student Fang Hao, as well as Luo Yang. The three would have meals together, discussing topics such as the Villa Contention Battle and the upcoming Ranking Tournament. Lin Ye encouraged Fang Hao to increase his training time, and Fang Hao agreed, showing Lin Ye’s positive influence. When Fang Hao ran out of points, he turned to Lin Ye for a loan, indicating a level of trust and open reliance in their friendship 89.

Fang Hao later becomes one of Lin Ye’s closest companions during competitions. He watches Lin Ye’s matches with Luo Yang, congratulates him on victories, and recognizes that Lin Ye often conceals his full strength 205 216 221. He also ensures Lin Ye takes time away from training by inviting him to sightsee in Ningchuan before the New Year 168.

Luo Yang

Luo Yang was another classmate in Lin Ye’s circle at Fenglei. He remained calm and collected, providing a steady presence during their group interactions and meals. His demeanor contrasted with Fang Hao’s more emotional nature, but the three maintained a supportive friendship 89.

Luo Yang continues to support Lin Ye and Fang Hao during later competitions, offering level-headed observations about Lin Ye’s tendency to conceal his true capabilities 205 216.

Zhao Qiang

Zhao Qiang began as a skeptical classmate. In the early days, he watched Lin Ye practice at night and expressed doubt about his potential 5. After Lin Ye’s rapid rise in the grand exam rankings, Zhao Qiang felt a sense of crisis but initially struggled to acknowledge it, choosing to step back rather than offer congratulations 21. However, after Lin Ye was formally selected for key cultivation, Zhao Qiang did congratulate him, showing a change in attitude from dismissal to reluctant recognition 22.

Zhou Qian

Zhou Qian was a classmate who showed ambition and a pragmatic outlook. She observed Lin Ye’s practice and discussed his efforts with Zhao Qiang 5. Later, when Lin Ye was selected for key training, she expressed a desire for his help once he became successful, hinting at her own aspirations and a willingness to leverage his future success 22.

Zhou Yan

Zhou Yan harbored a grudge against Lin Ye from earlier events. When he spotted Lin Ye in the arena during a competition, he immediately decided to settle their old scores, leading a group of his allies toward Lin Ye. This prioritization of personal vengeance over the competition’s main objective highlighted the antagonistic nature of their relationship 83.

Zhou Yan later defeats Zhang Xudong in an elimination tournament, a result Fang Hao finds amusing in light of both men’s past antagonism toward Lin Ye 142.

Zhou Chong

Zhou Chong first becomes associated with Lin Ye through Fenglei Tower, where he encounters Lin Ye’s projection on multiple floors and is eliminated. Embarrassed, he falsely tells Zhang Xudong and Li Yan that the projection is a system bug 92. During the Star Realm exercise, he hesitates in fear when Lin Ye chooses to engage seven Rending Claw Beasts alone 103.

Their relationship becomes less hostile over time; Zhou Chong later greets Lin Ye warmly before the final exams 142. However, they eventually meet as opponents in a formal match. Lin Ye defeats him decisively using Mountain-Suppressing Fist and Fist Momentum, while Zhou Chong acknowledges Lin Ye’s strength 220 221.

Zhang Xudong

Zhang Xudong was a fellow student from Lin Ye’s hometown who contacted him by phone, expressing enthusiasm for building a support network among students from the same region. Lin Ye remained cautious and reserved during the conversation 74. However, when Lin Ye later faced Zhou Yan’s confrontation, Zhang Xudong chose not to intervene, displaying indifference and a focus on his own interests rather than any sense of hometown solidarity 83.

Zhang Xudong is later defeated by Zhou Yan in the elimination tournament 142.

Lin Ye’s Parents

Lin Ye’s parents were mentioned only briefly but with clear emotional significance. When Lin Ye shared his exceptional exam score of 749 with them, they expressed pride and joy, indicating a supportive family background that valued his achievements 56.

His mother Wang Xiulan later accepts the intensity of his chosen path, supporting his six-hour daily training regimen despite her concern for his health 61. Lin Ye also remains mindful of his family and plans to return home for the New Year even while pursuing demanding martial training 168.

Major Plot Arcs

1. Early Progression and Mock Exam
   Lin Ye’s rapid improvement during his final months of high school forms the foundation of his martial arts journey. After a month of intensive training, he reaches the Proficient level in the Primordial Stance and Great Success in the Rolling Stone Fist 11. His progress catches the attention of his teacher Zheng Huai, who spars with him and acknowledges his growth, while classmates like Li Weiwei and Zhang Zhen note that his technique has improved by an entire tier 10. The district-wide mock exam is announced, comprising academic tests, martial arts assessments, and a ranking tournament—a structure that mirrors the real college entrance exam 11. This arc establishes Lin Ye’s dedication and the competitive landscape he must navigate, highlighting that skill can compensate for lower blood-qi values at this stage.

2. High School Entrance Exam Ranking Tournament
   The citywide ranking tournament narrows hundreds of candidates to just 50–60 participants 17. The matchmaking system pairs similar-strength opponents in the first round, then randomizes subsequent rounds 17. Lin Ye demonstrates his growing mastery by easily defeating an opponent who also uses the Rolling Stone Fist—albeit at Mastery level—while Lin Ye himself wields it at Grandmaster level, proving that technique can overcome higher blood qi 17. In the official entrance exam ranking tournament, Lin Ye wins his first two matches in the Virtual Combat System, further solidifying his reputation as a skilled fighter 39. These early tournament performances are critical for Lin Ye’s eventual recognition by universities and set the stage for his special recruitment.

3. Special Recruitment by Fenglei Martial University
   This arc marks a decisive turning point. Zhou Ting, a special guest reviewing exam performances, spots an embryonic form of intent (True Momentum) in Lin Ye’s fist techniques 45. However, Lin Ye’s blood-qi value of 335 is deemed too low for special admission at top regional universities like Canglan 46. Recognizing his potential, Zhou Ting recommends Lin Ye to Fenglei Martial University—ranked dead last in the region—for their “Special Potential Talent Recruitment Program.” The admissions director, Xu Mingde, immediately initiates the process, determined to snatch talent before other schools 46. Fenglei’s offer is comprehensive: regular Foundation-Building Blood-Qi Pills, free access to D-grade martial arts, breathing technique resources upon reaching the Blood-Qi Realm, and a reserved spot in the Grade B Star-Power Body Tempering Pool once Lin Ye reaches the Mortal Shedding Realm 49. After some deliberation, Lin Ye accepts, scoring 749 overall on the entrance exam—a result that surprises even his friends, who expected him to attend more prestigious schools 55 56. This arc underscores the theme of potential over current metrics: Fenglei invests in Lin Ye’s future growth while other universities overlook him due to his low blood qi.

4. Transition to University Life and Initial Ranking
   Departing his hometown for Ningchuan City, Lin Ye boards a high-speed train and is escorted to Fenglei Martial University by a senior student via a Tier-2 aircraft—a symbol of the school’s resources despite its low ranking 64. Upon arrival, he creates an account on the University Regional Network under the alias “Ye 12138,” starting with an initial ranking of 1,472,389 68. In the virtual ranking competition, he wins four consecutive matches using his Thunder Blade and Lost Track Steps, then faces Zhou Yan, a fellow Fenglei student with a higher rank (1,368,571). Lin Ye defeats him through superior footwork and a counterattack after playing “hide and seek” to exhaust his opponent’s composure 69. These matches demonstrate Lin Ye’s adaptability and strategic thinking, while his encounter with a schoolmate foreshadows the internal competition ahead.

5. Daily Training and Resource-Driven Growth
   University life revolves around a rigorous schedule: mandatory courses in Blood Qi Refining Studies, Star Power Overview, and Earth Cave War History, supplemented by at least eleven hours of daily martial arts practice in Thunder Blade and Lost Track Steps 71. Lin Ye’s discipline contrasts with his roommate Fang Hao, who struggles to train more than four hours 71. Over the course of a month, Lin Ye’s blood qi increases significantly—from around 335 to 402—due to the resources provided by Fenglei, such as high-purity blood-qi pills and access to the training facilities 89. He also learns about the Fenglei Tower, a venue where students can earn points by dueling 89. This arc highlights how the university’s investment accelerates Lin Ye’s physical growth, closing the gap that once held him back.

6. The Villa Contention Battle and Long-Term Goals
   Zhou Ting informs Lin Ye that reaching Gold rank in the virtual platform’s ranking tournament would grant the right to live in a detached villa on campus, which offers superior cultivation conditions and privacy 62. Shortly after, the Third Academy announces a Villa Contention Battle for freshmen—a series of online duels where the top 30–50 winners secure villa residence for a semester 63. The format changes yearly, with some faculty arguing for a survival mode over a traditional ranking tournament 71. This arc gives Lin Ye a concrete, high-stakes objective: to earn the best possible environment for his training. It also reinforces the tiered nature of the university system, where rank and achievement directly influence resource access, motivating Lin Ye to push beyond his current limits.

7. Fenglei Tower Advancement and the Projection Incident
   Lin Ye first clears Fenglei Tower’s sixth floor at Late Body Tempering Stage, creating a projection that can appear on the first through third floors and award him a percentage of challengers’ points when it wins 91. After advancing Lost Track Steps and Thunder Blade, he returns and clears through the eighth floor, defeating Blood-Qi Realm guardians despite being lower in raw cultivation 116. His projection’s ruthless Crotch-Striking Blade behavior causes considerable distress among students, eventually prompting the university to ask Lin Ye to notify them before future clearances; in exchange, the school grants him 1,000 points monthly 126. Lin Ye eventually clears the sixteenth floor, overcoming a peak Blood-Qi Realm guardian with Instant Prison Thunder Mark 187.

8. Star Realm Hunting and Potential Points
   Lin Ye enters the Star Realm for practical combat, first demonstrating his courage by confronting Rending Claw Beasts and later saving three second-year students from a Star-Mane Wolf pack 103 159. His first kill grants him a Potential Point, revealing a new layer of his panel’s abilities: Points can accelerate training and raise martial arts beyond their normal limits 156. This arc transforms real combat from merely an examination requirement into a key source of power and allows Lin Ye to advance Thunder Blade into Version 3.0 191.

9. Final Exams and Fist Momentum Revelation
   With his cultivation entering the Mid-Stage Blood-Qi Realm, Lin Ye sets his sights on the final exams’ top three and continues refining Fenglei Breathing Technique, Heavenly Wind Blade, and advanced footwork 142 219. He often suppresses his visible strength during early matches, prompting allies to recognize that he is deliberately concealing his blade techniques 205 210. Against Zhou Chong, Lin Ye chooses boxing gloves rather than his Thunder-Roar Blade and reveals Mountain-Suppressing Fist: Mountain-Tilting Form. The technique manifests Fist Momentum, allowing him to defeat Zhou Chong in three moves and establish himself as a championship-level contender 220 221.

Trivia

• Lin Ye uses the alias "[Ye 12138]" in the ranking tournament, advancing from rank 1,410,000 to 1,394,287. 70

• Lin Ye's first opponent of a higher realm in the ranking tournament is Night Rain Sword North from East Sea Martial University, at the Peak Body Forging Stage, whom he defeats in five minutes and forty-eight seconds. 70

• Lin Ye's Vitality score jumps from 218 to 335 in just two months, shocking teachers from other schools. 35

• At the Gaokao, Lin Ye achieves a score of 749 with a Blood Qi Value of 335. 57

• In the grand exam, Lin Ye scores 725, ranking 7th in his class — an improvement from 24th that is the highest leap in the class and ranks in the top three of the entire school. 21

• Lin Ye is one of four special recruits proposed for Wind-Thunder Martial University, with the offered benefits including weekly Foundation-Building Blood-Qi Pills. 48

• Zhou Chong encounters a phantom resembling Lin Ye on the third floor of the Fenglei Tower, and again on the second floor, leading to his elimination; he later lies to Zhang Xudong and Li Yan that it is a "bug." 92

• Lin Ye's teacher, Zheng Huai, estimates Lin Ye's total score after the ranking tournament to be between 710 and 730, and expresses regret he did not have more time to improve. 43

• After a month of using resources, Lin Ye's Blood Qi reaches 402. 89

• In the Wasteland, Lin Ye is surrounded by three opponents; he uses Lost Track Steps and Thunder Blade to defeat one in a single strike, causing the other two to flee. 82

• During a battlefield competition, Lin Ye's brutal efficiency causes his fleeing opponents to disrupt the Qingjiang group's formation, resulting in a chaotic battle royale; only two survivors hide behind a boulder. 85

• In the Star Realm, Lin Ye decides to engage seven Rending Claw Beasts alone while Fang Hao and Zhou Chong hesitate in fear. 103

• Lin Ye defeats Zhou Yan in a ranking match using superior footwork and a tricky unexpected move, implying they may have crossed paths before. 69

• Zhou Yan later sees Lin Ye in the arena and leads a group of allies to settle their grudge, while Zhang Xudong, who also holds a grudge, chooses not to intervene. 83

• Lin Ye's teacher Zheng Huai advocates for him to receive key cultivation resources, citing his ordinary family background, significant progress, and actual combat potential. 19

• Lin Ye’s Fenglei Tower projection is notorious for using the Crotch-Striking Blade, causing many students to develop fear of encountering it. 126

• Fenglei Martial University compensates Lin Ye with 1,000 points per month after asking him to provide advance notice before future tower clearances. 126

• Lin Ye clears Fenglei Tower’s sixteenth floor by using Instant Prison Thunder Mark against a peak Blood-Qi Realm guardian. 187

• Lin Ye’s panel records Mountain-Suppressing Fist, Spirit-Nurturing Stance, and Lost Track Steps at Consummation. 156

• Lin Ye’s Lost Track Steps incorporates the spatial principles of Square Inch and Ripples, allowing him to anticipate attacks through spatial disturbances. 149

• Lin Ye purchases Heavenly Wind Blade for 1,800 points because it is required for the A-Grade Heavenly Wind Thunder Prison Blade. 168

• Lin Ye’s Blood Qi reaches 1,050 while he is in the Mid-Stage Blood-Qi Realm. 219

• Lin Ye defeats Zhou Chong with Mountain-Suppressing Fist: Mountain-Tilting Form and learns that he has comprehended Fist Momentum. 220 221