Dean Zhu

Biodata

Background / History

Dean Zhu oversees the Junior Soul Master Academy of Martial Soul Academy. After Qian Xunji places Lin Fan at the academy, he entrusts Dean Zhu with handling Lin Fan's needs and reporting on his progress. Zhu personally explains the academy's regulations, class schedule, and cultivation arrangements to the new student. 4

At Lin Fan's request, Dean Zhu purchases Whale Rubber before its body-tempering properties become known to Qian Xunji. 10

When Lin Fan and Bibi Dong prepare to acquire their first soul rings, Zhu devises potential spirit-beast targets and leads them through the Martial Soul Forest. He recommends numerous thunder-attribute spirit beasts, including the Thunder Fang Wolf, and recognizes the potential compatibility of the Thunder Pattern Tiger, Thunder Roc, and Golden Thunder Bamboo. 12

Zhu guides the group efficiently through the forest using his familiarity with its terrain and spirit-beast habitats. He identifies a roughly 1,300-year-old Golden Thunder Bamboo as an ideal match for Lin Fan, incapacitates it for Lin Fan to deliver the final blow, and stands guard during the absorption of its soul ring. 13

He continues directing the search for Bibi Dong's first soul ring, locating a Human-Faced Demon Spider estimated at 1,000–1,300 years old. After the hunt, he confirms that Bibi Dong and Lin Fan's level-thirteen strength makes them unsuitable for ordinary first-year practical-combat lessons. 14 15

Abilities & Skills

Spirit-Beast Knowledge

Dean Zhu possesses extensive practical knowledge of spirit beasts and their compatibility with martial souls.

• Can recommend suitable lightning-attribute spirit beasts based on Lin Fan's cultivation path. 12
• Identifies the Golden Thunder Bamboo's age and suitability from its physical characteristics. 13
• Estimates the Human-Faced Demon Spider's age by the length of its legs. 14
• Recognizes the value and limitations of a millennium-grade soul bone. 15

Martial Soul Forest Navigation

Zhu frequently leads Junior Soul Master Academy students into the Martial Soul Forest and is highly familiar with its terrain.

• Avoids unnecessary encounters while tracking suitable spirit beasts. 13
• Knows the general locations of spider-type spirit-beast habitats. 14
• Serves as a guide during Lin Fan and Bibi Dong's first soul-ring hunt. 12 14

Combat Capability

Although only identified as a Soul King, Zhu is capable of subduing a millennium-level spirit beast for a student to finish.

• Beats the thousand-year Golden Thunder Bamboo to the brink of death without destroying its soul ring. 13
• Remains on guard while Lin Fan and Bibi Dong absorb their respective soul rings. 13 14

Equipment / Items

• Machete — Used by Lin Fan to deliver the final blow to the Golden Thunder Bamboo after Dean Zhu weakens it. 13
• Academy uniform — Worn while serving as the Junior Soul Master Academy's dean. 4

Relationships

• Lin Fan — Academy administrator and guide. Zhu explains the academy routine, purchases Whale Rubber at Lin Fan's request, and plans and leads his first soul-ring hunt. 4 10 12 13
• Bibi Dong — Guides her during the search for a suitable first soul ring and later assesses her advancement beyond first-year practical-combat classes. 12 14 15
• Qian Xunji — Entrusted by Qian Xunji to assist Lin Fan at the Junior Soul Master Academy; accompanies him on the first soul-ring expedition. 4 12

Story Role / Major Arcs

• Academy enrollment — Receives Lin Fan after Qian Xunji's departure and introduces him to the Junior Soul Master Academy's rules and schedule. 4
• Whale Rubber matter — Obtains Whale Rubber for Lin Fan before Qian Xunji questions its use. 10
• First soul-ring hunt — Prepares spirit-beast recommendations, guides the party through the Martial Soul Forest, and assists in securing Lin Fan's Golden Thunder Bamboo soul ring. 12 13
• Bibi Dong's first soul ring — Leads the continued search that results in the discovery of the Human-Faced Demon Spider and supports the group during her absorption. 14 15