Lu Chen

Biodata

Feature	Detail
Name	Lu Chen 1
Alias	Known simply as "Chen" among his subordinates; a small-time gang leader on Sheep Pen Street 1
Gender	Male
Age	Youth, described as "not even grown up yet" by Dongfang Cang; considered of marriageable age by the Mistress 54 110
Height	Not specified
Appearance	No detailed description provided in the available context
Cultivation Realm	External Force (External Strength) realm; First-Seal martial artist 35 36 61
Affiliation	Leader of a small gang on Sheep Pen Street; member of the Small Knife Society; later a candidate for the Martial Patrol Office 1 42 77
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 and resilience that allow him to defeat higher-realm opponents 1 51 76

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.

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 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. 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, even earning the coveted Plum Blossom Pill after defeating four opponents simultaneously 22. 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.

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 various means, including secret medicines and card draws 8 10 14 22 45 61. 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. He demonstrates incredible speed and strength in combat, capable of punching through significant energy defenses 111. His bone structure and pulse are noted to be strong, confirming his advancement in martial arts 37. This physical development allows him to withstand powerful attacks and deliver devastating blows, making him a formidable opponent 111.

• Build: Lu Chen has a robust and powerful build, which is consistently enhanced through his martial arts progression and the use of various strengthening methods 8 10 14 22 45 61. His physical attributes and energy volume significantly increase after forming his first Seal, allowing for more powerful and precise attacks 61. His bone structure is noted to be strong 37.
• Attire: Lu Chen typically wears new clothes, which he acquires after significant advancements or when his old ones become unsuitable 61. He has been observed ordering new clothes for himself, indicating a practical approach to his appearance 61.

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 or learning of Jin Ming’s betrayal, Lu Chen remains unruffled and does not allow anger to cloud his judgment 3 20.
• 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 Martinal 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 Force realm, he decides to dominate South City and later sets his sights on settling old scores with Li Tianrui, demonstrating a relentless drive for growth and power 35 60.
• 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, and when the Mistress suggests marriage, he firmly refuses because he does not want to subject a family to the dangers of his path 54 78.
• 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.

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 silver 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 8. Later, he unlocks additional pools: the [Red Pill Secret Technique] pool (after completing a quest at the Red Pill Sect temple) and the [Hundred-Refined Bladesmith] weapon pool (after purchasing a blacksmith shop and completing a mission) 33 79. The drawing process yields cards of varying rarity—white, green, purple, and gold—with white and green cards being most common 8. Cards provide immediate attribute boosts (e.g., Strength, Vitality, Agility), martial arts experience, trait cards, and sometimes unique items such as the Slave Pill or Ascension Powder 96. The draw rates for the [Proud Snow Cold Plum] pool are identical to those of the basic pool 8. Lu Chen has performed large-scale drawing sessions—for instance, 740 pulls in one session across multiple pools 45—and uses accumulated silver to rapidly enhance his abilities.

• Applications: Enables rapid acquisition of martial arts, attributes, and traits far faster than traditional training; allows targeted draws from specific pools (e.g., martial arts, weapons, secret techniques) to address immediate needs; trait cards can be fused using saved fusion cards to create stronger effects 45.
• Limitations: Dependent on silver reserves; costs are high for sustained drawing (e.g., 1,200 taels for 1,100 pulls); randomness of draws means no guarantee of desired high-rarity cards; some cards require specific cultivation conditions (e.g., the Plum Blossom Bone-Tempering Technique golden card could not be used immediately due to level requirements) 45; limited draw pools per category until unlocked.

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 skyrocket after repeated draws—reaching Strength 71, Vitality 133, Agility 54 by Chapter 14 14. By Chapter 98, after extensive draws and cultivation, his stats become extraordinary: Force 3875, Vitality 4200, Agility 1305, Fist Technique 1180, Leg Technique 1205, and many others 98. This physical might allows him to punch through the energy protection of a Five-Seal martial artist (Luo Que) despite being at a lower realm 111. His raw strength is compared to the “Reincarnated Overlord” Yuan Guiyi by the military supervisor Dongfang Cang 111. He can lift heavy objects with one arm (e.g., a cabinet that previously required great effort) and feels light as a swallow 8. His resilience is demonstrated when he takes Shi Jingang’s punches head-on during a life-or-death duel and counters with a powerful blow 51. His bodily size also increases, reaching nearly 1.9 meters tall with well-defined muscles and improved appearance 98.

• Applications: Overpowering opponents through sheer force, as seen against Shi Jingang and the Four-Seal martial artist Mei Sheng (where brute strength overwhelms refined technique) 88 51; enduring attacks that would severely injure others; performing feats of strength such as punching through energy shields; enhanced speed and agility enables swift movement and unexpected strikes.
• Limitations: Physical prowess is dependent on continuous card draws for attribute growth; without forming Seals (External Force milestones), raw physical power is limited compared to realm-based energy defenses; late-game enemies with high internal energy or advanced techniques can still match or surpass pure physical might.

Martial Arts Techniques

Lu Chen learns and masters several martial arts through card draws 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 also acquires the Plum-Breaking Snow-Treading Style, which reaches Great Success 59% and has three special effects: Double Strike, Tenacity, and Snow-Treading Step 95. The Treading Snow Seeking Plum is a movement technique he obtains early 14. Additionally, he learns the Falling Red Petal Blade, a unique blade technique with a ten-level cultivation system (each level unlocks a new ultimate move) rather than the standard four realms; the first-level ultimate move “Flying Red Blade Qi” projects energy outside the body to strike enemies from up to two meters away 95. He also obtains the Cold Plum Nineteen Forms sword technique used by his opponent Mei Sheng, but context does not indicate he learns it 88.

• Applications: Plum Blossom Quick Fist with Double Strike allows rapid offensive combos; Plum-Breaking Snow-Treading Style provides both offense (Double Strike, Tenacity) and mobility (Snow-Treading Step); Falling Red Petal Blade enables ranged attacks from a distance, useful for cutting wood or striking enemies safely; fusion of martial arts creates new, enhanced techniques.
• Limitations: Early martial arts (Plum Blossom Fist) are rudimentary and weak; advanced blade techniques like Falling Red Petal Blade consume significant internal energy per strike (e.g., first-level strike “hollowed out” a small portion of dantian energy) 95; the ten-level system means full power is only reached after mastering all levels; fusion requires specific fusion cards and cannot combine all martial arts (e.g., Plum Blossom Quick Fist could not be fused with Plum Blossom Bone-Tempering Technique) 45.

Special Traits and Passive Abilities

Lu Chen collects numerous trait cards that grant passive bonuses. Notable traits include: Cold Plum Bone-Piercing Force (purple), Cold Plum Force (green), Cold Resistance (white) which allows resistance to extreme cold when circulating external techniques 8 14. He also has Plum Branch Trembling Baleful Intentdow (purple), Durability (white), Hard Skin (white), Grass Root Stomach (white), Night Owl (green), and Nimble Hands (green) 14. He uses trait fusion cards to combine weaker traits into stronger ones, eventually upgrading his trait slots to accommodate three active traits 45. His physical attributes also imply passive bonuses: high Arm Strength is a prerequisite for superior fist and palm martial arts; Appearance (Charisma stat) commands respect without anger and provides intimidation in combat 8. His Root Bone is at 30, Luck at 15, and Perception at 600 98. The Martial Arts Fusion card (drawn from the Red Pill Secret Technique pool) allows merging two existing martial arts into one, which he used to create the Plum Blossom Quick Fist 33.

• Applications: Cold Resistance protects against cold-based environments or techniques; Hard Skin and Durability increase survivability in combat; Night Owl may improve dark vision; Nimble Hands enhance dexterity; Martial Arts Fusion creates novel techniques with unique effects; Appearance helps in social interactions and intimidation.
• Limitations: Trait slots are limited (initially 1, later 3 after fusion), requiring careful selection; many low-rarity traits are discarded as they “take up space” 45; trait fusion consumes fusion cards (saved up over time) and cannot be applied arbitrarily; some traits are context-specific (e.g., Cold Resistance only useful in cold environments).

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 in his battle against Mei Sheng where it eventually cut through the Four-Seal martial artist’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 can create obedient medicine slaves, and the Ascension Powder can potentially drive an immortal to seek ascension, but the context implies Lu Chen considers using them strategically 96. The Filth Mud Rejuvenation Armor is an item used by Luo Que, not directly obtained by Lu Chen, but it represents a defensive and healing item type 111. Additionally, Lu Chen forms his first Seal in Chapter 61, officially becoming a First-Seal martial artist, which increases his energy volume and control, allowing him to condense energy into a single point for enhanced power 61.

• Applications: Ghost-Head Blade bypasses energy defenses, ideal for fighting armored or high-realm opponents; crossbow provides ranged attack options; wooden sword useful against evil or supernatural beings; Slave Pill and Ascension Powder can be used to control others or gain powerful allies; Seal formation increases energy density and control, enabling more precise and powerful attacks.
• Limitations: Items require maintenance or replenishment (e.g., crossbow bolts); Slave Pill and Ascension Powder are rare and may have ethical or practical risks (not detailed); Seal formation is only the first step—further Seals are needed to compete with high-realm opponents; the Ghost-Head Blade’s special effect is not unlimited and may depend on the wielder’s strength.

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. 35
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

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, drawn alongside the crossbow and wooden sword from the same card pool. 79
• Ascension Powder: A rare secret medicine obtained as a purple card from the Red Pill Secret Technique card pool; Lu Chen considers using it to create obedient, driven medicine slaves or to locate an immortal. 96
• Slave Pill: Another 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

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. This relationship is the emotional anchor of Lu Chen’s early career, providing him with both a confidant and a ruthlessly capable lieutenant.

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. 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 later entrusts him with the critical mission of retrieving the stolen secret medicine formula after Mei Dai elopes with Wen Liangyu 84. Her relationship with Lu Chen is thus one of conditional affection – she wants him as both a protégé and a son-in-law, but respects his choice and relies on his loyalty when the hall is in crisis.

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. Their interaction is thus one of missed potential: Lu Chen is the responsible suitor she rejects, and she becomes the root of a mission that tests his loyalty to the hall.

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.

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. Their interaction is brief but significant, illustrating Lu Chen’s ability to win over peers through martial prowess. Ah Qi’s eagerness to prove himself in the wider world contrasts with Lu Chen’s measured demeanor, yet the sparring session establishes a mutual respect that strengthens Lu Chen’s standing within Han Qiu’s circle.

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.

Lin Wei'er and Ji Chuan
Lin Wei'er and Ji Chuan, also disciples of Plum Blossom Hall, mirror the initial 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. Unlike Zhou Lan and Zheng Tie, however, there is no subsequent evidence of Lin Wei'er or Ji Chuan forming a closer bond with Lu Chen; their relationship remains one of grudging acknowledgment rather than mentorship or friendship.

Blind Girl (A-Qing)
Lu Chen’s interaction with the blind girl, later revealed to be A-Qing of the Golden-Clad Divine Catchers, is minimal but notable for its absence of deference. When they share a table at a restaurant, Lu Chen initially suspects her of having ulterior motives but shows no particular interest, behaving with indifference – a reaction that A-Qing finds rare and refreshing, as she is used to sycophants 55 56. No direct conversation or bond develops; Lu Chen remains oblivious to her true identity as a high-ranking agent from the capital. The relationship exemplifies Lu Chen’s lack of social ambition toward powerful figures and his tendency to treat everyone with the same pragmatic caution.

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