Lu Chen

Biodata

Feature	Detail
Name	Lu Chen 1
Alias	Known simply as "Chen" among his subordinates; later addressed as Gang Leader Lu and Leader Lu 1 47 129
Gender	Male
Age	Sixteen; described as not yet fully grown by Dongfang Cang and as of marriageable age by Mistress Mei 9 54 111 129
Height	Over two meters following his massive card-draw enhancement 126
Appearance	Initially a poorly dressed South City youth in patched cotton clothing; later becomes an extraordinarily tall, broad-shouldered young man with an almost unnaturally handsome, imposing appearance 6 61 126 132
Cultivation Realm	Five-Seal External Strength martial artist; his physical body and combat power greatly exceed his nominal realm 38 129 144 147
Affiliation	Personal disciple of Mistress Mei and Plum Blossom Martial Hall; leader of the Black Blade Society; member of the Small Knife Society; Martial Patrol Office officer 37 101 116 132
Background	A transmigrated man who arrived in this world impoverished; began collecting "peace money" to survive 1
Notable Traits	Resilient, cunning, calm under pressure, protective of the weak, ambitious, strategic thinker; possesses extraordinary physical strength, resilience, and rapid cultivation that allow him to defeat much higher-realm opponents 1 76 111 144

Background

Transmigration

Lu Chen was a man who had been reincarnated into a harsh and unfamiliar world. Upon waking, he found himself in the impoverished and lawless South City of Wen'an County, inhabiting the body of a sixteen-year-old youth with nothing to his name 1 9. The memories of his previous life were fragmentary, but his new reality was brutally clear: he was a nobody scraping by on the streets, collecting "peace money" from the small vendors of Sheep Pen Street just to survive 1. This transmigration came with no special advantages — no inherited wealth, no family backing, and no martial arts legacy. Instead, he was greeted by a bitter winter, a threadbare padded jacket, and the constant threat of violence from local bullies and opportunists alike 1 6.

His sole extraordinary advantage emerged after he stabbed Yao Dalong in self-defense: the Chronicles of Jianghu Heroes interface, through which he could spend currency to draw cards and strengthen himself 1 2. Though he had once played the game in his prior life, the system's effects in reality—including physical recovery and direct enhancement of his body—were immediately apparent 2 3.

Early Life

Before setting foot in any martial hall, Lu Chen’s life was a daily struggle for survival. He led a small crew of street-level subordinates, most notably the loyal Blind Man and the strong but simple Shuan Hu, relying on his wits and a growing reputation for toughness to carve out a niche in the slums 1 4. When Li Tianrui, a former rival, joined the Green River Sect and his senior sister severely injured Lu Chen, the young man chose a strategic retreat rather than a hopeless fight — a decision that revealed his shrewd, calculating nature 1. Even while recovering from his wounds, he had to fend off betrayal; his neighbor Yao Dalong, feigning kindness, attempted to rob him, only to be stabbed by Lu Chen in a tense confrontation 1.

Determined to rise above his circumstances, Lu Chen devised a lottery scheme that brought a steady stream of copper coins from the desperate poor of South City 4. The business flourished until Han Lao Wu, a notorious usurer, set up a competing stall, but Lu Chen again chose not to escalate immediately, focusing instead on a longer-term solution: enrolling in a martial arts hall to gain real power 6. His motivations were pragmatic. When the mistress of the Plum Blossom Martial Hall later asked why he wished to learn martial arts, Lu Chen answered plainly: “To become strong so I won’t be bullied” 9. This single-minded drive to escape vulnerability defined his early years. He was not interested in fame or legacy; he needed the means to protect himself and the few people who relied on him 9.

Joining the Martial Hall

After scouting several martial halls in the East City, Lu Chen settled on the Plum Blossom Martial Hall, drawn by the legendary reputation of its founder, Mei Guanlan, who had once fought thirty-six bandits single-handedly 4 9. Paying the steep entrance fee of ten strings of copper coins from his lottery earnings, he presented himself to Master Deng, the hall’s master. Deng, a lazy and disdainful man, barely opened his eyes when Lu Chen entered. The sight of Lu Chen’s patched and worn cotton jacket prompted a sneer. After a curt exchange — Lu Chen admitted to being from the South City and “scraping by on the streets” — Deng waved him away, warning only that he must pay his monthly tuition on time to remain 6. The other disciples, dressed in silks and attended by servants, assumed Lu Chen was a new servant and ignored him entirely 7.

Training duties fell to Liu Qi, a servant-like disciple who taught the basic techniques to the hall’s poorer students 7. Lu Chen, however, was not primarily concerned with learning from Liu Qi. His true goal was to unlock the martial arts card pool that he sensed was tied to the hall. Within days, he succeeded, and a surge of heat in his chest heralded the activation of a system that would allow him to draw skills and attributes from a “Proud Snow Cold Plum” pool 6 7. From that point, he threw himself into training with ferocious determination, tying sandbags to his limbs for basic conditioning and quickly learning the first three moves of the Plum Blossom Fist 7. When the disciples were offered Secret Medicine to aid their cultivation, Lu Chen managed to keep a portion for his brother Blind Man, demonstrating both his cunning and his loyalty 10.

Despite Master Deng’s neglect, Lu Chen’s diligence and humble demeanor caught the attention of the hall’s true authority: the Mistress, Madam Mei. She was the daughter of the legendary Mei Guanlan and held the final say in all hall affairs 7 9. After Lu Chen delivered rouge to her at an opera house, she questioned him about his background and motives, and his honest answers — mentioning the hall’s reputation and his desire not to be bullied — earned her a faint smile 9. Over the following weeks, his relentless training paid off. He defeated a bully disciple named Wang Ding in a fight, gaining respect from his peers 10. When he was later wanted by the authorities for injuring an officer, the Mistress personally intervened, sending Master Deng to settle the matter and paying the thirty-tael fine on Lu Chen’s behalf — a clear sign of her growing trust in him 17. Lu Chen repaid her by taking on debt and displaying unwavering loyalty, solidifying his place in the hall 17.

Eventually, he became the hall’s strongest disciple, earning the coveted Plum Blossom Pill after defeating four opponents simultaneously 21 22. After confirming his External Strength breakthrough, Mistress Mei formally accepted him as a personal disciple and promised to teach him the final two forms of the Plum Blossom Fist 37. The Mistress came to see him as a son-like figure, and his background — once the mark of a street rat — became the foundation of a rising martial artist’s legend 53 84 91.

Rise in the Underworld and Martial Patrol Office

Lu Chen’s advancement enabled him to expand beyond Sheep Pen Street. After defeating Boss Mo and the Rat Gang, he claimed their territory and resolved to dominate South City 35. He later became increasingly involved with the Small Knife Society, building ties with its leaders Han Qiu and Boss Zou while offering the organization’s support to the Green River Sect amid its conflict with the Witch Sect 77 95.

Following his rescue of the magistrate’s son and his defeat of the Three-Seal Yellow Dragon Daoist, Boss Zou offered him a Martial Patrol Office recommendation quota 76 77. Lu Chen initially declined because he believed he lacked sufficient seniority and merit, but ultimately accepted after learning the position’s obligations and benefits 78. He passed Dongfang Cang’s initial combat trial against the Five-Seal Luo Que, then overcame the Yin Beast’s well illusion in the subsequent assessment 111 116. He was consequently issued an official uniform, a Blood Jade Soul-Linking Idol, a Burning Vein Pill, and a protective token containing a strand of Dongfang Cang’s inner force 116.

During the Knocking Ghost crisis, Lu Chen established the Black Blade Society through a Gang Token, with Blind Man as deputy leader and several of his longstanding subordinates as core personnel 101. When Wen'an became increasingly unsafe, he escorted Mistress Mei, her family, and his followers toward Frostleaf City 101 107. There, the Small Knife Society secured a foothold, while Lu Chen opened a weapons shop on Iron Guts Street and began planning a tavern to complete another system mission 117 132.

Frostleaf City and Later Conflicts

After surviving the disaster at Luo Family Manor and seeing Luo Que crippled, Lu Chen became even more determined to accumulate wealth and strength against the increasingly supernatural dangers of the world 125 131. He spent his available gold and silver on massive card draws from the Plum Blossom Eight Ultimates pool, then secluded himself for five days to assimilate the gains and master the complete set of eight Plum Blossom Sect ultimate arts 126 127.

His explosive growth brought him to the Five-Seal realm. When Li Yafeng assaulted Boss Zou and a Small Knife Society member, Lu Chen confronted and killed him despite the presence of Martial Patrol Office captains, accepting responsibility for the consequences 127 129. He later captured the elusive Shen Lang and killed Du Feng, an Eight-Seal Governor’s Mansion retainer, after Du Feng attempted to seize the prisoner and claim the credit 143 144. While protecting Shen Lang at Master White Willow’s residence, Lu Chen subsequently faced the Ninth Young Master of Lotus Tower and two Nine-Seal experts, refusing to yield his captive despite the enormous disparity in cultivation 147.

Physical Description

Lu Chen possesses a robust and powerful physique, a direct result of his rigorous martial arts training and the continuous enhancement of his physical attributes through secret medicines, cultivation breakthroughs, and card draws 8 10 45 61 126. His physical prowess is so remarkable that it draws comparisons to the renowned “Reincarnated Overlord” Yuan Guiyi, a testament to his exceptional strength and resilience 111 147. He demonstrates incredible speed and strength in combat, capable of punching through significant energy defenses and enduring attacks that should cripple ordinary martial artists 111 144.

His body changed drastically after his large-scale draws. By Chapter 98, he was nearly 1.9 meters tall, muscular, and exceptionally handsome; after his later ten-thousand-draw session, he grew beyond two meters and acquired an almost demonic beauty that repeatedly attracts attention 98 126 132. His bone structure and pulse were initially assessed as ordinary but sound, while his later physical development far surpassed ordinary martial standards 37 126.

• Build: Lu Chen has an enormous, heavily muscled build. His body becomes broader and taller after major breakthroughs, eventually making him appear mountain-like even while wearing the Martial Patrol Office uniform 61 126 129.
• Features: His Appearance attribute rises dramatically through card draws. By the time he reaches Frostleaf City, his features are described as exquisitely proportioned, with deep-set eyes, strong brows, and a high nose; observers frequently find his appearance striking or overwhelming 126 132 139.
• Durability: His skin, flesh, bones, and meridians are extraordinarily tough. Luo Que’s Five-Seal energy was unable to damage Lu Chen’s arm, while Du Feng’s Eight-Seal sword techniques could not penetrate his vajra-like body 111 144.
• Attire: Lu Chen formerly wore patched cotton clothes due to poverty, later purchasing practical martial outfits as his physique outgrew his old garments 6 61 62. As a Martial Patrol Office officer, he wears its distinctive black official uniform, which remains fitted despite his immense physical changes 116 129.

Personality

Lu Chen is a pragmatic and resilient individual who, despite a harsh upbringing and repeated betrayals, maintains a calm and composed demeanor. He possesses a sharp strategic mind, often choosing tactical retreat or measured responses over impulsive action. His strong sense of responsibility extends to his subordinates and business, yet he deliberately avoids personal attachments and family, viewing them as liabilities on his dangerous path. While initially bitter and resentful after transmigrating, he quickly demonstrates self-control, maturity, and a willingness to learn from setbacks. His humility is genuine—he refuses rewards he feels he has not earned—yet he harbors a deep-seated ambition to expand his influence and grow stronger through relentless effort.

• Calm and composed under pressure: Whether facing provocations from Li Dehai, learning of Jin Ming’s betrayal, or confronting powerful enemies such as Du Feng, Lu Chen remains unruffled and does not allow anger to cloud his judgment 3 20 144.
• Strategic and calculating: He carefully weighs risks and benefits, choosing to retreat from Han Lao Wu’s competition rather than escalate prematurely, and later devises the lottery scheme to generate income 4 6.
• Humble and respectful of merit: Initially declines Boss Zou’s offer of a Martial Patrol Office quota because he lacks seniority and proper merit, showing that he values earned rewards over shortcuts 78.
• Determined and ambitious: After breaking through to the External Strength realm, he decides to dominate South City and later commits enormous resources to becoming strong enough to survive the growing chaos of the martial world 35 126 131.
• Resilient and adaptable: Despite being severely injured and betrayed by a trusted neighbor, he recovers quickly and adapts his plans, embodying a survivor’s mindset 1.
• Responsible and protective: He shows concern for his business and his brothers, protects the magistrate’s son from Yellow Dragon Daoist, and refuses to abandon Shen Lang despite Lotus Tower’s pressure 54 76 147.
• Fair and loyal leader: When dividing Han Lao Wu’s spoils, he ensures his brothers receive their share, reinforcing their trust and loyalty 14.
• Mature beyond his years: Impresses senior martial artists and even the Mistress with his understanding of social dynamics and his ability to handle himself in formal settings 38.
• Self-controlled in the face of betrayal: Upon overhearing Jin Ming call him a “dog,” he does not confront him immediately but instead absorbs the information and adjusts his strategy, showing remarkable restraint 20.
• Cunning and opportunistic: He uses the card-drawing system to boost his abilities, quickly learns new martial arts, and offers support to the Green River Sect to gain allies, always looking for an advantage 14 95.
• Ruthless toward threats: Lu Chen does not hesitate to kill those who pose a serious danger to him or his people, including Yellow Dragon Daoist, Shi Laohei, Li Yafeng, and Du Feng 76 103 129 144.
• Cautious toward forbidden methods: Although he recognizes the strategic potential of Red Pill Sect medicines and altered soldiers, he distrusts unknown pills and forbidden arts, refusing a suspicious pill offered by the Yin Serpent organization 142 143.

Abilities

Gacha System

Lu Chen possesses a unique golden finger known as the Chronicles of Jianghu Heroes, which manifests as a series of card pools from which he can draw cards using copper, silver, or gold currency. The primary pools include the basic [Entering the Jianghu] pool and the martial arts [Proud Snow Cold Plum] pool, each costing 150 wen for a single draw or 1,350 wen for a ten-pull 1 6 8. The basic pool has no guaranteed pity system and has listed rates of 70% white, 25% green, 4.5% purple, and 0.5% gold 3.

He later unlocks the [Red Pill Secret Technique] pool after completing a Red Pill Sect temple mission, the [Hundred-Refined Bladesmith] weapon pool after purchasing a blacksmith shop, and the [Plum Blossom Eight Ultimates] pool, which contains the Plum Blossom Sect’s highest inheritance 33 79 96 127. Cards provide immediate attribute boosts, martial arts experience, trait cards, weapons, medicines, and mission-related items 8 79 96. Lu Chen has carried out massive drawing sessions, including 740 pulls across multiple pools and a later all-in investment culminating in ten thousand consecutive draws from the Plum Blossom Eight Ultimates pool 45 126.

• Applications: Enables rapid acquisition of martial arts, attributes, and traits far faster than traditional training; allows targeted draws from specific pools to address immediate needs; trait cards can be fused using saved fusion cards to create stronger effects 45.
• Limitations: Dependent on immense financial reserves; costs are high for sustained drawing, and desired high-rarity cards are not guaranteed 3 45. Some cards require specific cultivation conditions before use, as with the Plum Blossom Bone-Tempering Technique 45. The system’s abilities and missions also remain difficult for Lu Chen to explain safely to others.

Physical Attributes and Prowess

Lu Chen’s physical attributes are exceptionally high and continue to grow through card draws and martial arts breakthroughs. Starting with Strength 15, Vitality 12, and Agility 4 in Chapter 8, his attributes rise to Strength 71, Vitality 133, and Agility 54 by Chapter 14 8 14. By Chapter 98, his recorded attributes include Force 3,875, Vitality 4,200, Agility 1,305, Fist Technique 1,180, and Leg Technique 1,205 98. After his later all-in drawing session, his attributes reach unprecedented levels, including Strength 42,625, Vitality 46,200, Force 6,545, Agility 14,355, and Appearance 211 126.

This physical might allows him to punch through or bypass the energy protection of higher-Seal martial artists. As a lower-realm fighter, he wounded Four-Seal Mei Sheng through his protective qi; as a Two-Seal fighter, he forced Five-Seal Luo Que back and endured his energy-infused Eagle Claw strikes unharmed 88 111. At Five Seals, he kills the Eight-Seal Du Feng, whose refined Heartbreak Sword techniques fail to penetrate Lu Chen’s body 144. His raw strength is compared to the “Reincarnated Overlord” Yuan Guiyi by Dongfang Cang and Lotus Tower’s Ninth Young Master 111 147.

• Applications: Overpowers opponents through sheer force, as seen against Shi Jingang and Mei Sheng; endures attacks that would severely injure others; breaks energy defenses; moves at extreme speed; and employs his immense bite force to snap Luo Hongying’s sword in half 51 88 111 118.
• Limitations: Physical strength alone does not erase realm disparities. Against coordinated Nine-Seal experts, Lu Chen can breach their combined barrier but still faces their superior projected-force techniques and experience 147. His direct, brutal combat style is less refined than the orthodox techniques of established masters 111 144.

Martial Arts Techniques

Lu Chen learns and masters several martial arts through card draws, personal instruction, and fusion. The first is the Plum Blossom Fist, a basic fist technique of the Plum Blossom Martial Hall. He learns only the first three forms initially and practices diligently; his proficiency increases from zero to Rudimentary 0.1% after an afternoon 7 8. After card draws, it reaches Rudimentary 46.1% 8. Later, after fusing it with his movement technique Treading Snow Seeking Plum, he creates the Plum Blossom Quick Fist, which gains a special “Double Strike” effect allowing two rapid consecutive punches 33. He subsequently develops the Plum-Breaking Snow-Treading Style, which possesses the effects Double Strike, Tenacity, and Snow-Treading Step 95.

The Treading Snow Seeking Plum is a movement technique he obtains early 8 14. He also learns the Falling Red Petal Blade, one of the Plum Blossom Eight Ultimates. Its ten-level cultivation system differs from standard four-stage martial arts; its first ultimate move, Flying Red Blade Qi, projects energy outside the body to strike enemies from up to two meters away 95.

After his massive later draw session, Lu Chen masters all eight ultimate arts of the Plum Blossom Sect: Cold Plum Jade-Congealing Art, Plum Blossom Nine-Section Sword, Wind-Thunder Startling Plum Palm, Hidden Fragrance Drifting Shadow Step, Defiant Snow Extinction Formation, Heavenly Plum Life-Extending Finger, Iron-Bone Coiling Dragon Whip, and the perfected Falling Red Petal Blade 127. Completing the Eight Ultimates also grants him Blood Plum Divine Descent, an ultimate move that greatly amplifies his abilities at the cost of life essence and future potential 127.

• Applications: Plum Blossom Quick Fist provides rapid offensive combinations; Plum-Breaking Snow-Treading Style combines offense with mobility; Falling Red Petal Blade provides ranged blade qi; and the Eight Ultimates give Lu Chen access to internal arts, swordsmanship, palm, movement, formation, finger, whip, and blade techniques 95 127.
• Limitations: Early martial arts such as the incomplete Plum Blossom Fist were rudimentary and weak 8. Falling Red Petal Blade consumes significant energy per projected strike, while Blood Plum Divine Descent has the severe cost of consuming life essence and potential 95 127. Lu Chen’s preferred combat method remains direct twin-blade aggression rather than refined technical swordplay 144.

Special Traits and Passive Abilities

Lu Chen collects numerous trait cards that grant passive bonuses. Notable early traits include Cold Plum Bone-Piercing Force (purple), Cold Plum Force (green), and Cold Resistance (white), which allows resistance to extreme cold while circulating external techniques 8 14. He also gains Plum Branch Trembling Shadow (purple), Durability (white), Hard Skin (white), Grass Root Stomach (white), Night Owl (green), and Nimble Hands (green) 14.

Through fusion, he develops stronger traits including Ice Soul Bone-Eroding Force, which increases attack speed, inflicts frostbite and continuous cold damage, and can penetrate some protective energy; and Frost-Breaking Mountain Golden Body, which reduces damage, accelerates healing, and reflects part of the damage he receives 45. His gold-rarity Plum Bone trait increases his base defense by 100%, doubled in cold, snowy, or icy conditions 45. By Chapter 61, his three equipped traits are Ice Soul Bone-Eroding Force, Frost-Piercing Mountain-Breaking Golden Body, and Plum Bone 61.

Lu Chen additionally possesses offensive effects such as Qi-Breaking, which lets his attacks bypass portions of protective energy, and cold-based effects that cause freezing pain even through an opponent’s defenses 111. The Martial Arts Fusion card drawn from the Red Pill Secret Technique pool allows him to merge compatible martial arts into a new technique 33.

• Applications: Cold and qi-breaking traits let Lu Chen injure opponents through ordinary energy defenses; defensive traits make his body extraordinarily difficult to damage; Night Owl improves low-light vision; and fusion creates stronger compound traits and techniques 45 111.
• Limitations: Trait slots are limited, initially to one and later to three, requiring careful selection 14 61. Trait fusion consumes rare fusion cards and cannot be performed on arbitrary combinations 45. Environmental traits such as Cold Resistance and Plum Bone’s doubled defense are most effective under particular conditions 8 45.

Unique Techniques and Items

Beyond standard martial arts, Lu Chen acquires special items and techniques. The Ghost-Head Blade, drawn from the Hundred-Refined Bladesmith pool, possesses a special effect that allows it to break through protective qi, as demonstrated when it cut through Four-Seal Mei Sheng’s energy defense 79 88. He also obtains a powerful crossbow and a wooden sword with evil-suppressing properties from the same pool 79.

From the Red Pill Secret Technique pool, he draws Exclusive Secret Medicines, Ascension Powder, and a Slave Pill 96. The Slave Pill is intended to produce obedient medicine slaves, while the unpredictable transformation caused by Red Pill Sect medicines makes Lu Chen aware both of their military potential and their horrific risks 90 96 142. He later receives a Blood Jade Soul-Linking Idol, a Burning Vein Pill, and a token containing Dongfang Cang’s inner force upon entering the Martial Patrol Office 116.

Lu Chen commonly fights with twin blades: the Ghost-Head Blade in one hand and the gold-patterned Blood Drinker in the other 134. With these blades and his overwhelming physical strength, he can tear through an Eight-Seal martial artist’s protective inner force and even destroy treasured weapons such as Du Feng’s Heartbreak Sword 144.

• Applications: The Ghost-Head Blade and Qi-Breaking effects help bypass energy defenses; the crossbow offers ranged combat; the wooden sword is suited to evil or supernatural threats; the Blood Jade Soul-Linking Idol permits communication with Dongfang Cang; and Dongfang’s token offers emergency protection 79 116 144.
• Limitations: Crossbows require ammunition, secret medicines are dangerous and ethically fraught, and the consequences of relying upon Red Pill Sect creations remain unpredictable 90 96 143. The protection within Dongfang Cang’s token is finite and should not be treated as a substitute for Lu Chen’s own strength 116.

Power Progression

Realm	Chapter	Details
External Force	Chapter 34	Lu Chen breaks through to the External Force realm, gaining enhanced physical strength and energy control. He immediately decides to confront Boss Mo, demonstrating newfound confidence. 34
External Strength	Chapter 35	Following his defeat of Boss Mo and the Rat Gang, Lu Chen breaks through to the External Strength realm, a further refinement of his external cultivation that allows him to dominate South City. His breakthrough is later verified by Mistress Mei and Ji Chuan. 35 36 37
First Seal	Chapter 61	Lu Chen successfully forms his first Seal, officially entering the First-Seal realm. His physical attributes and energy volume increase significantly; he gains smoother, more delicate energy control and can condense energy into a single point for increased power. The breakthrough solidifies his foundation and marks a major milestone in his martial path. 60 61
Second Seal	Chapter 106	Less than three months after beginning martial training, Lu Chen reaches the Second-Seal realm. His speed of advancement shocks the Small Knife Society, particularly Ah Qi, who has remained at First Seal for years. 106
Five Seals	Chapter 129	After spending all available wealth on the Plum Blossom Eight Ultimates pool and assimilating the resulting gains in seclusion, Lu Chen reaches Five Seals. His cultivation and physical transformation alarm even his allies, while his combat power allows him to kill Eight-Seal Du Feng soon afterward. 126 127 129 144

Equipment

• Crossbow: A powerful ranged weapon drawn from the Hundred-Refined Bladesmith card pool. 79
• Wooden Sword: A wooden sword with evil-suppressing properties, also obtained from the Hundred-Refined Bladesmith card pool. 79
• Ghost-Head Blade: A formidable blade with a special effect that assists in breaking protective qi; Lu Chen uses it as one of his twin blades. 79 88 134
• Blood Drinker: A gold-patterned blade wielded in Lu Chen’s other hand during his twin-blade fighting style. 134
• Ascension Powder: A rare secret medicine obtained as a purple card from the Red Pill Secret Technique card pool. Lu Chen recognizes that it may be connected to immortal-seeking or altered-human methods, but its effects are dangerous and uncertain. 96 142
• Slave Pill: A secret medicine from the Red Pill Secret Technique pool intended to produce completely obedient medicine slaves. 96
• Exclusive Secret Medicine: One of two exclusive secret medicines drawn from the Red Pill Secret Technique card pool. When tested on Wen Liangyu, it induced a grotesque bodily transformation, demonstrating its unpredictable and dangerous effects. 89 96
• Blood Jade Soul-Linking Idol: A living blood jade communication item issued by Dongfang Cang after Lu Chen passes the Martial Patrol Office assessment. 116 130
• Burning Vein Pill: A pill awarded to Lu Chen upon becoming a Martial Patrol Office officer. 116
• Dongfang Cang’s Token: A protective token containing a strand of Dongfang Cang’s inner force. 116
• Martial Patrol Office Uniform: Lu Chen’s distinctive black official uniform, issued after he passes the Martial Patrol Office assessment. 116 129

Relationships

Blind Man
Blind Man is Lu Chen’s most trusted subordinate and closest comrade, a bond forged in the harsh underworld of Wen'an County. From the earliest chapters, their relationship is defined by deep mutual trust and a shared understanding of ruthlessness. When Yao Dalong and his son pose a future threat, Blind Man orders their deaths without hesitation, and Lu Chen’s men carry it out, showing Blind Man’s authority and Lu Chen’s implicit approval 2. Lu Chen values Blind Man’s counsel and treats him as an equal, even entrusting him with his life. In return, Blind Man considers Lu Chen his family, a sentiment Lu Chen reciprocates by distinguishing his “brothers” from blood relatives 81. This loyalty extends to practical acts: Lu Chen secretly keeps some of the Secret Medicine for Blind Man to aid his training, demonstrating his willingness to risk exposure for his brother’s benefit 10. When Lu Chen’s relatives from Lu Family Town arrive with false claims of kinship, Blind Man and Er Gou stand firmly beside him, reinforcing the primacy of chosen family over blood ties 80. Their partnership is also operational: Blind Man is tasked with finding a storefront for a blacksmith shop mission and works with Lu Chen to investigate Mei Dai’s elopement 72 84. After Lu Chen establishes the Black Blade Society, Blind Man becomes its deputy leader with loyalty recorded at ninety-five, confirming his position as Lu Chen’s foremost lieutenant 101. He remains reliably responsible for handling finances, retrieving stored silver, and carrying out Lu Chen’s instructions during the Frostleaf City period 126.

Mistress Mei
Mistress Mei, the matriarch of Plum Blossom Hall, acts as Lu Chen’s mentor and surrogate mother figure. She takes him under her wing, explains advanced martial concepts such as External Strength seals, and expresses genuine pride when he breaks through to the External Force realm – a milestone that surprises even her 36 38. After Ji Chuan verifies Lu Chen’s cultivation, she formally accepts him as her personal disciple and teaches him the final inheritance of the Plum Blossom Fist 37. Her concern for his well-being is evident when she tends to his injuries after his life-or-death match against Shi Jingang, though she also worries about the secretive nature of his martial arts progress 53. Beyond training, she attempts to arrange a marriage between Lu Chen and her daughter Mei Dai, seeing him as a suitable match, but Lu Chen firmly refuses, stating that his dangerous path in the martial world leaves no room for family attachments 54. Despite this rejection, Mistress Mei does not withdraw her support; she continues to treat him as a favored disciple and entrusts him with the critical mission of retrieving the stolen secret medicine formula after Mei Dai elopes with Wen Liangyu 84. When the Knocking Ghost crisis forces her family to flee Wen'an, Lu Chen invites them to travel with him to Frostleaf City and assures her they are not a burden 101. She later trains members of Lu Chen’s group, including Blind Man, as their martial mother 130.

Mei Dai
Lu Chen’s relationship with Mei Dai is largely indirect and defined by tension over marriage and betrayal. Mistress Mei explicitly suggests that Lu Chen marry Mei Dai, praising his bravery and responsibility compared to Wen Liangyu’s cowardice, but Lu Chen declines, citing his unwillingness to take on family obligations in a dangerous life 54. Mei Dai herself is infatuated with Wen Liangyu and shows no reciprocal interest in Lu Chen; her heartbreak over Wen’s abandonment during a crisis only confirms her romantic fixation 53. Later, Mei Dai elopes with Wen Liangyu, stealing the secret medicine formula of Plum Blossom Hall – an act that forces Lu Chen to intervene on behalf of Mistress Mei 84. He is tasked with retrieving the formula, making Mei Dai a target of his investigation rather than a personal connection. After Wen Liangyu’s transformation into a monster and defeat, Mei Dai apologizes for her actions and returns home with Lu Chen, who treats her with understanding rather than vengeance 90.

Mei Ying
Mei Ying is Mistress Mei’s younger daughter and Mei Dai’s sister. She initially treats Lu Chen with a mixture of playfulness and class-conscious calculation, endorsing him as a superior alternative to Wen Liangyu while privately considering him unsuitable for the wealthy life she desires 54. After Lu Chen’s drastic transformation in Frostleaf City, however, she becomes noticeably more attentive and openly eager for his company 117 132. Lu Chen remains protective of her well-being and considers the possible consequences of Master Deng’s illegitimate family for the Mei household, but he does not encourage her romantic interest 117.

Han Qiu
Han Qiu, a key member of the Small Knife Society, emerges as an important ally and contact for Lu Chen in the broader martial world. They first meet at a private banquet hosted by the County Magistrate, where Han Qiu and Boss Zou acknowledge Lu Chen’s power and influence, and Lu Chen shows deference to their seniority 81. Their relationship develops as Han Qiu becomes a source of intelligence: he invites Lu Chen to an underworld gathering and briefs him on the reward offered by the Witch Sect for capturing Su Xiaoxiao, revealing his ambition and knowledge of the wider pugilistic world 55. In a more personal exchange, Han Qiu asks Lu Chen to locate the County Magistrate’s illegitimate son, who has gone missing on North Mountain, indicating that Han Qiu trusts Lu Chen with sensitive tasks that bridge official and underworld circles 72. Their bond is one of mutual benefit – Lu Chen gains access to networks and information, while Han Qiu leverages Lu Chen’s growing reputation and skill – and it is marked by cordial respect rather than deep personal affection. Han Qiu remains an important Society leader during the move to Frostleaf City and expresses concern for Luo Que after the Luo Family Manor disaster 125 129.

Boss Zou
Boss Zou is a senior Small Knife Society leader and one of Lu Chen’s most significant patrons in the underworld. Recognizing Lu Chen’s potential after the magistrate’s-son incident, he offers Lu Chen a Martial Patrol Office quota and later formally assigns him the Society’s recommendation place 77 78 106. Zou’s confidence in Lu Chen grows as the youth’s cultivation accelerates, and he sees him as a vital asset to the Society’s future in Frostleaf City 106 132. Lu Chen reciprocates this investment with open loyalty, declaring that the Small Knife Society’s affairs are his own 132. When Li Yafeng injures Boss Zou, Lu Chen kills the attacker in retaliation, demonstrating the seriousness with which he takes this alliance 127 129.

Luo Que
Luo Que is a Five-Seal Martial Patrol Office martial artist who becomes Lu Chen’s mentor, colleague, and friend. During Lu Chen’s first trial, Luo Que initially holds back out of concern for the younger fighter, only to discover that Lu Chen’s body can withstand his Five-Seal energy without injury 111. Their spar establishes mutual respect, and Luo Que later supports Lu Chen after his successful Martial Patrol Office assessment 116. Luo Que invites Lu Chen to assist with the lucrative but dangerous Luo Family Manor assignment, reflecting his trust in Lu Chen’s capabilities 117. After the manor disaster leaves Luo Que gravely wounded and crippled, Lu Chen offers him encouragement and maintains their friendship despite Luo Que’s despair 125 130.

Dongfang Cang
Dongfang Cang is the Martial Patrol Office military supervisor who recognizes Lu Chen’s extraordinary potential. He stops Lu Chen’s spar with Luo Que after judging that Lu Chen has passed the first trial, comparing his physique to that of Yuan Guiyi 111. Dongfang Cang subsequently gives Lu Chen official equipment, a protective token infused with his inner force, and signs of personal favor after Lu Chen passes the Yin Beast assessment 116. Although he later investigates Lu Chen closely following the Luo Family Manor incident to determine whether he has practiced evil arts, his inquiry reflects caution rather than open hostility 131. Dongfang Cang’s backing also influences Master White Willow’s refusal to betray and kill Lu Chen under Lotus Tower’s coercion 144 147.

Ah Qi
Ah Qi, Han Qiu’s guard, initially displays arrogance when he spars with Lu Chen, but their friendly bout quickly reveals Lu Chen’s superior skill and leads to a shift in attitude. When Lu Chen demonstrates that he has broken through to the First-Seal and uses the new technique “Sword Finger,” Ah Qi becomes respectful and admiring, acknowledging Lu Chen’s talent 72. Ah Qi is later shocked by Lu Chen’s rise to Second Seal in less than three months, having personally remained at First Seal for years 106. Their relationship remains one of martial respect within the Small Knife Society and Martial Patrol Office circles.

Zhou Lan and Zheng Tie
Zhou Lan and Zheng Tie are senior disciples under Mistress Mei who initially express skepticism about Lu Chen’s background and aptitude. Zhou Lan questions Lu Chen’s potential due to his poor origins, while Zheng Tie is dismissive – both are surprised when Lu Chen breaks through to the External Force realm 36. However, over time they warm to him. At the Lantern Festival, Zhou Lan and Zheng Tie take Lu Chen under their wings, introducing him to key figures in Wen'an County such as the County Magistrate and various guild heads, mentoring him in the importance of social connections in the pugilistic world 38. Their relationship evolves from skepticism to active support, reflecting Lu Chen’s ability to earn respect through demonstrated growth and maturity. During the Knocking Ghost crisis, Zhou Lan also offers Mistress Mei’s family refuge at the Zhou estate, though she ultimately chooses to travel with Lu Chen instead 132.

Lin Wei'er and Ji Chuan
Lin Wei'er and Ji Chuan, also disciples of Plum Blossom Hall, initially mirror the doubts of Zhou Lan and Zheng Tie. Lin Wei'er expresses skepticism about Lu Chen’s aptitude, and Ji Chuan dismisses his potential outright. Both are shocked when Lu Chen reaches the External Force realm, their disbelief underscoring the prevailing prejudice against low-born martial artists 36. Ji Chuan later verifies Lu Chen’s External Strength breakthrough through an examination of his bones and pulse 37. Lin Wei'er’s attitude becomes increasingly friendly after seeing Lu Chen’s accomplishments; upon encountering him in Frostleaf City, she is astonished by his changed physique and appearance and invites him to attend the City God Temple arena event with the Mei family 132 133.

Blind Girl (Yan Ke)
Lu Chen’s interaction with the blind girl, later revealed as Yan Ke of the Golden-Clad Divine Catchers, begins with wary indifference. When they share a table at a restaurant, Lu Chen suspects she may have ulterior motives but gives her no special deference, a reaction Yan Ke finds rare and refreshing 55 56. Their relationship later becomes openly hostile when Yan Ke attempts to prevent Lu Chen from killing Su Xiaoxiao, but neither gains a decisive victory 135. Subsequently, they form an uneasy alliance to find Yan Ke’s abducted younger sister, A-Yuan, and investigate Shen Lang through the Golden Blade Sect 138. Lu Chen respects Yan Ke’s determination and secret cross-realm technique, though he is deeply wary of her Puppet Eye Technique and consciously suppresses the impulse to turn their association into a feud with the Divine Catcher Gate 138 143.

Shen Lang
Shen Lang is an elusive thief and former associate of the Yin Serpent organization whom Lu Chen captures while investigating Yan Ke’s case. Shen Lang becomes deeply fearful of Lu Chen after witnessing his strength and increasingly attempts to appease him 143 144. Lu Chen refuses to surrender Shen Lang to Du Feng, killing the Eight-Seal retainer who attempts to take the prisoner and claim the reward 144. He continues protecting Shen Lang when the Ninth Young Master of Lotus Tower demands custody, making Shen Lang’s fate the immediate cause of Lu Chen’s conflict with Lotus Tower’s Nine-Seal elders 147.

Blood Relatives (The Uncles and Yao Dalong)
Lu Chen’s relationships with his blood relatives are uniformly hostile and defined by past betrayal and present ruthlessness. His uncles from Lu Family Town approach him claiming kinship and seeking positions in his gang, but Lu Chen coldly recalls their past injustices against him and his family, refusing to be swayed by false affection. He ultimately kills them in cold blood, demonstrating that he values his chosen brothers over blood ties 80 81. Similarly, Yao Dalong, a neighbor who initially appears kind, attempts to rob the injured Lu Chen, leading to a violent confrontation in which Lu Chen stabs him – an act that sets the story’s early events in motion 1 2. These relationships underscore a central theme: Lu Chen’s loyalty is earned, not inherited, and those who betray or exploit him face deadly consequences.

Quotes

"You have the strength comparable to the 'Reincarnated Overlord' Yuan Guiyi."
— Chapter 111

"I have no plans to marry or have a family. My path is too dangerous to involve others."
— Chapter 54

"Su Xiaoxiao has seven seals at a young age, achieved through countless battles."
— Chapter 38

"The Iron Fist Martial Hall is nothing but uncultured and boorish."
— Chapter 53

"I cannot accept a reward without proper merit. I haven't done enough to deserve it."
— Chapter 78

"Revenge is my primary motivation for joining the caravan. I will settle my score with Li Tianrui."
— Chapter 60

"I will not hand over the child. He is under my protection now."
— Chapter 76

"Come at me together. I'll fight all four of you at once."
— Chapter 21

"I offer you protection and a share of the profits in exchange for joining my Small Knife Society."
— Chapter 42

"Your son's success does not make you a better man. Stay out of my way."
— Chapter 3

Trivia

• Lu Chen initially ran a lottery business that boomed in South City, attracting many customers and provoking the usurer Han Lao Wu to set up a competing stall. 6
• After enrolling in the Plum Blossom Martial Hall, Lu Chen paid an entrance fee of ten strings of copper coins; the hall’s master, Deng, showed disdain for Lu Chen’s poor appearance. 6
• While distributing a Secret Medicine from the west wing pharmacy, Lu Chen secretly withheld some for his Blind Man brother to aid his training. 10
• Lu Chen used his saved copper coins to draw cards from a “Proud Snow Cold Plum” card pool, gaining various skill and attribute bonuses. 10
• After defeating Wang Ding in a fight, Lu Chen’s reputation intimidated Shopkeeper Wang, Wang Ding’s father, who later apologized with gifts. 10
• Lu Chen challenged and defeated the top four disciples of the Plum Blossom Martial Hall simultaneously in a single round. 21
• The Mistress of the Plum Blossom Martial Hall once suggested that Lu Chen marry her daughter Mei Dai, but Lu Chen refused, citing his dangerous path in the martial world and his resolve to remain unattached. 54
• Mei Ying, the Mistress’s other daughter, playfully urged Mei Dai to consider Lu Chen while subtly indicating her own disinterest in him. 54
• During a sparring match, Lu Chen punched through Luo Que’s Five-Seal energy protection, and Luo Que used a “Filth Mud Rejuvenation Armor” – a defensive and healing item. 111
• Military supervisor Dongfang Cang compared Lu Chen’s physical prowess to that of the legendary “Reincarnated Overlord” Yuan Guiyi. 111
• In a life-or-death duel, Lu Chen withstood Shi Jingang’s punches head-on and landed a “Black Tiger Steals the Heart” blow that injured his opponent despite Shi Jingang’s tough defense. 51
• After forming his first Seal, Lu Chen’s energy control improved so much he could condense energy into a single point; the Blind Man noticed visible physical changes in him. 61
• Lu Chen’s Plum Blossom Quick Fist reached “Great Completion 56%” and he gained a new martial art called “Plum-Breaking Snow-Treading Style” after a card draw session. 61
• When Lu Chen was wanted for injuring an officer and resisting arrest, the Mistress of the Plum Blossom Martial Hall paid thirty taels of silver to clear his case, and he signed an IOU for the hall. 17
• Lu Chen learned the “Falling Red Petal Blade” technique, which allowed him to project energy outside his body to strike enemies from a distance. 95
• Lu Chen offered the Small Knife Society’s support to the Green River Sect during tensions between the Green River Sect and the Witch Sect. 95
• Lu Chen was ambushed by Shi Laohei of the Iron Fist Martial Hall, who sought revenge for his disciple’s death; Lu Chen killed Shi Laohei and his disciples using the Sword Finger technique. 103
• After the ambush, Lu Chen received an “Underworld Letter” threatening his life, and soon after the Knocking Ghost began violently attacking his door. 103
• Lu Chen initially declined Boss Zou’s offer of a quota for the Martial Patrol Office because he felt he lacked sufficient seniority and merit. 78
• At the Lantern Festival, Lu Chen was introduced to the County Magistrate Chen Mingyuan and various guild heads, learning the importance of social connections in the pugilistic world. 38
• Lu Chen passed the Martial Patrol Office’s illusion assessment while Qin Feng, Wang Jing, Dong Dali, and Le Zhengyu failed after becoming trapped in the Yin Beast’s well illusion. 116
• The Black Blade Society’s system-generated name could be changed only if Lu Chen later obtains a Rename Card. 101
• Lu Chen’s later card-draw enhancement increases his height to over two meters and raises his Appearance attribute to 211. 126
• Lu Chen spends five days mastering the eight ultimate arts of the Plum Blossom Sect and gains Blood Plum Divine Descent, a powerful move that costs life essence and future potential. 127
• Lu Chen kills Li Yafeng after Li Yafeng injures Boss Zou and a Small Knife Society member. 127 129
• Lu Chen bites Luo Hongying’s sword in half during a confrontation at Luo Family Manor. 118
• Lu Chen defeats and kills the Eight-Seal Heartbreak Sword Du Feng, destroying Du Feng’s treasured sword in the process. 144
• Despite being only at Five Seals, Lu Chen chooses to face two Nine-Seal Lotus Tower elders rather than surrender Shen Lang. 147