Chen Cheng

Biodata

Feature	Detail
Name	Chen Cheng 21 26 41 54 65 66 76 89 107 108 113 138 162 165 166
Alias	None known
Gender	Male 21 66 108
Affiliation	Dragon Mountain Hall (Middle Academy, Outer Hall, later Upper Academy) 21 66 76; Third Branch 89; Talent in Reserve, Martial Guard General Headquarters 166; Shanhai Sect (initially Sea Academy and Fishery Pavilion, later associated with the Sword Pavilion and Fist Pavilion) 172 176 199 223; Northern Emperor Demon-Subduing Sect (outer disciple; Thunder-Holding Peak) 264 266
Status	Alive 225 271 280

Background

Chen Cheng was born into a life of poverty in the slums of Zhao City, the son of Madam Li and Chen Shi. His father was conscripted into military service and eventually joined the Death Squad Camp, a posting that effectively abandoned the family to fend for themselves 1 3. The only tangible legacy Chen Cheng’s father left behind was a letter revealing his fate and a meager ten taels of silver, which did little to lift the family from destitution 3. Chen Cheng and his mother were largely left to survive on their own, reliant on his labor as a day-worker in the city. Their already precarious existence was further threatened by the local criminal underworld, particularly the Black Wolf Gang, which regularly extorted protection money from slum residents 1 3. The turning point came when a gang member named Laitou assaulted Chen Cheng, knocking him unconscious. The attack made clear that without some means of self-defense, Chen Cheng and his mother would remain vulnerable to extortion and violence 1.

Realizing that the law offered no protection to the poor, Chen Cheng resolved to learn martial arts. His mother, Madam Li, supported this decision and revealed that the Chen family—specifically his grandfather—had promised to arrange martial arts training for Chen Cheng, as a legacy from his father 1. The two traveled to the Chen Family Old Residence to claim that promise, only to be met with betrayal. The old master had already given the training opportunity to his other grandson, Chen Hao, and refused to consider Chen Cheng. Chen Hao’s mother further verbally abused them, and the family disowned Chen Cheng and Madam Li on the spot. Only the Third Uncle showed any kindness, offering a modest parting gift 2. This experience of familial rejection and injustice hardened Chen Cheng’s resolve. He severed ties with the Chen clan, determined to forge his own path rather than rely on the goodwill of those who had cast him and his mother aside 2.

The family’s circumstances grew even more desperate in the days that followed. The Black Wolf Gang’s enforcer, Scar Bear, issued an ultimatum demanding protection money, heightening the pressure on Chen Cheng to find a way to survive 3. It was at this low point that Chen Cheng experienced a mysterious awakening: a golden finger mark appeared in his mind, granting him the ability to understand and read the language of this world—a skill he had not possessed in his past life. More importantly, he also recalled a martial arts skill from that previous existence: the Health-Preserving Taiji Fist 2 3. With no formal teacher and little hope of receiving one from his estranged family, Chen Cheng began practicing the technique on his own, demonstrating a natural aptitude for martial arts that would prove crucial in the months ahead 3 4.

His early training was driven by pure necessity. Chen Cheng’s goal was not glory or advancement but the immediate need to defend himself and his mother from the Black Wolf Gang and other threats. He quickly reached the entry level of the Health-Preserving Taiji Fist, though he found the style lacked lethal power in combat 4. Seeking more effective techniques, he learned of the Dragon Mountain Martial Hall’s Lower Academy, which accepted promising slum youths—but at a terrible cost: a six-month commitment and a Death-Pledge Contract that bound disciples to the Hall’s dangerous tasks 4. Chen Cheng visited the Martial Hall and submitted to bone-feeling and comprehension tests, only to be dismissed as “not worth looking at” by a disdainful senior disciple. He failed to gain admission 4. Yet his encounter with a senior brother named Fang Wenhou marked a turning point. Fang Wenhou recognized Chen Cheng’s exceptional comprehension of the Crouching Dragon Stake Technique after a single demonstration, and agreed to take him in as a disciple. Chen Cheng signed the Death-Pledge Contract and joined the Dragon Mountain Martial Hall Lower Academy, finally gaining access to formal martial arts training 5.

Throughout this period, Chen Cheng’s family remained a central motivation. He supported his mother through whatever means necessary, including taking on dangerous, dirty jobs for payment 10. Madam Li, in turn, accepted his choices with understanding, prioritizing their survival over moral qualms 10. Chen Cheng also maintained ties with his uncle, Chen An, and showed concern for his Third Uncle’s welfare, later learning that the Black Wolf Gang had connections to Dragon Mountain Hall, complicating his relationship with that organization 71. As he progressed, Chen Cheng’s sense of responsibility as the head of his household only deepened. He declined a marriage proposal to avoid causing his mother distress, and when the opportunity arose to move into the Inner City, he ensured Madam Li had a comfortable, safe home 71 101. His background as a slum-dweller who rose through sheer grit and talent—without the backing of a powerful family—shaped his pragmatic, independent character and his constant drive to improve, even after achieving notable success 66 67.

After the Zhao City Martial Selection, Chen Cheng left for the northern Shanhai Sect. Although Pang Shixun considered his root bone insufficient for normal sect admission, his comprehension, temperament, combat record, and Silver List merit secured him an opportunity to enter the sect 162 166. At Shanhai, he initially resided in Guanlan Pavilion and was considered for the Sea Academy because of his Natural Iron Lung, but his subsequent accomplishments brought him increasingly close to the Sword Pavilion and its future master, Yuan Feiche 172 174 199. His victories in the Seven Pavilions Grand Competition and the Yunlei Prefecture Seven Sects Grand Competition established him as one of Shanhai Sect’s foremost young disciples 194 221.

After winning a place in the Northern Emperor Demon-Subduing Sect through the Seven Sects Grand Competition, Chen Cheng initially remained wary of using a recommendation quota because he believed the Divine Treasury within his aperture would not meet the sect’s standards 220 248. He later passed the Divine Treasury assessment alongside Ji Jingyou and formally became an outer disciple of the Northern Emperor Demon-Subduing Sect 264. At the sect, he chose the dangerous Black Law Punitive Thunder Scripture and came under the attention of Thunder-Holding Peak Master Lu Mingyang, while continuing to seek methods to strengthen his Divine Apertures and True Fire 266 276.

Chen Cheng later returned to Zhao City after his rise in cultivation and reunited with Madam Li, Zhuang Zhuang, and Fang Wenhou, finding the latter two and his mother reduced to hardship in his absence 271. His return quickly developed into open conflict with the Patrol Office and the Pang Family after he killed a Ti Cavalryman harassing Madam Li and subsequently slew Pang Wanhe and six Five-Qi Divine Treasury grand masters dispatched against him 271. These events demonstrated that Chen Cheng no longer possessed the limited strength of the impoverished youth who had once been powerless before local gangs 271.

Physical Description

Chen Cheng is a young man of average height and modest build, initially appearing ordinary and unremarkable in his features and bearing. However, as he advances in martial cultivation, his physique becomes increasingly robust and his posture more upright, reflecting the rigorous training and tempering he undergoes. His demeanor is typically calm, composed, and unreadable, with a focused, steady gaze that betrays little emotion. He often wears the training uniforms of the Dragon Mountain Hall—first the Middle Academy attire and later the Upper Academy’s—and his overall vitality and spirit are notably improved, giving him a healthy, vigorous presence that contrasts sharply with his earlier frailty 21 66 134 174.

By the time of his later Shanhai Sect campaigns, Chen Cheng is described as a tall, lean youth with a sharp, cold countenance and unusually fair, newborn-like skin. His body-tempering has made his physique extraordinarily durable, capable of resisting powerful sword qi and attacks that would ordinarily break through black-iron-grade defenses 205 221. His continued cultivation of Taiji and body-tempering arts further improves his vitality, recovery, sensory acuity, stamina, and physical strength, while the Endless trait maintains his youthful, pristine appearance 245 247.

• Enhanced Senses: His cultivation, particularly the Health Preservation trait, grants him highly honed senses, allowing him to perceive the flow of blood energy in opponents and strike with extraordinary precision 82.
• Blood Energy Aura: After condensing multiple wisps of blood energy, his presence becomes more imposing, radiating an aura that commands respect and fear from other disciples 65.
• Perfect Harmony State: Achieving Perfect Harmony further refines his physical and mental efficiency, reducing energy consumption and enhancing his overall performance in both training and combat 61.
• Robust Physique: His physical strength and stamina are exceptional for his rank, enabling him to clash directly with powerful demons and defeat multiple opponents through sheer force and endurance 91 134.
• Calm Demeanor: He maintains a composed, unreadable expression even in high-stakes situations, whether sparring with a superior or facing a deadly adversary, demonstrating exceptional self-control and mental focus 61 174.
• Natural Iron Lung: Chen Cheng possesses a Natural Iron Lung, granting him exceptional breath control, underwater endurance, and swimming ability. He surpassed both Chai Liang and Li Li during an underwater test 181.
• Exceptional Physical Defense: Through continued body-tempering, Chen Cheng’s body becomes capable of withstanding Jingchao Sword Qi and the attacks of peers at higher cultivation without serious injury 221 224. By his later campaigns, even a black-iron treasure weapon wielded by a Six-Qi expert could not scratch his forehead 228.
• Strong Mental Strength: His mental endurance is markedly superior to that of ordinary martial artists, allowing him to resist Spirit Sound arts and maintain intricate combat calculations under pressure 191 225.
• Five Extremes Potential: Chen Cheng’s five-pole constitution is unusually balanced at the average-high level. Tang Xian’en identifies the possibility that further improvement could eventually form the rare Five Extremes Riding Together constitution 194.
• Rapid Recovery: His Heart-Strengthening and Spirit Healing traits permit injuries and numbness that would cripple an equal-ranked martial artist to fade quickly, while the Endless trait continually supports his vitality and renewal 203 215 247.

Abilities and Skills

Vertical Eye Mark

The Vertical Eye Mark is Chen Cheng’s mysterious golden-finger ability and the foundation of his extraordinary comprehension. It first enabled him to understand the language of his new world and immediately bestowed the entry-level Health-Preserving Taiji Fist 2 3. By observing a martial art performed flawlessly or reading its complete manual, Chen Cheng can attain perfect entry-level mastery, including the art’s movements, mental method, true intent, and theoretical details 6 176.

• Instant Entry: The Mark allows Chen Cheng to gain entry-level mastery of martial arts he observes or studies, including the Moon Step of Impermanence, Thunder-Stepping Technique, Heart-Chain Spirit-Control Art, Dragon-Elephant Tyrant Body Art, and Still Sea Tide-Rising Palm 85 118 203 223 233.
• Trait Solidification: As a skill advances, the Mark records and solidifies traits that alter Chen Cheng’s body, senses, blood qi, and cultivation 15 17.
• Perfect Comprehension: Chen Cheng’s acquired entry-level arts are free of ordinary technical flaws, enabling him to comprehend and reproduce profound martial principles that normally require a master’s instruction 176 201.
• Limits: The Mark does not remove every prerequisite of cultivation. The Black Law Punitive Thunder Scripture, for example, requires a special oral entry condition that could not be learned merely from its written introduction 266.

Crouching Dragon Fist

The Crouching Dragon Fist is a mid-tier martial art that focuses on spiraling, twisting force designed to break hard styles and pierce armor. Chen Cheng mastered the technique quickly after witnessing a demonstration by Fatty Fang, demonstrating exceptional comprehension 7. The art incorporates both external striking power and internal force techniques, allowing for explosive damage that penetrates deeply into a target. Chen Cheng later modified the Crouching Dragon Fist to exceed the power of standard secret techniques, a feat that shocked observers and drew the attention of higher authorities 159.

• Armor Piercing Trait: Grants a 10% fixed bonus to destructive power, making each punch more effective at breaking through defenses and armor. This trait was derived and solidified by the Vertical Eye Mark upon Chen Cheng’s successful condensation of blood energy 15.
• Crushing Thunder Trait: An internal force technique that improves internal force by approximately 20%. It causes the force to penetrate deeper and creates a more violent internal explosion. Chen Cheng used this trait to pierce a vat wall and detonate within a charcoal fire, triggering a three‑zhang fire dragon 89.
• Defeat of Xing Xiong: Chen Cheng used his enhanced senses (sharpened by the Health Preservation trait) to perceive Xing Xiong’s blood energy path and deliver a precise strike to an old injury, killing him 81.
• Killing Kuang Yifeng: In the third round of a tournament, Chen Cheng executed a modified Crouching Dragon Fist that surpassed secret‑technique power, killing Kuang Yifeng and impressing the audience and Qin Zhao 159.

Crouching Dragon Stake Technique

This is a foundational martial arts training method that involves assuming a stake‑holding posture while coordinating specific breathing techniques and mantras. Chen Cheng learned the technique from Senior Brother Fang and mastered the breathing and mantra components perfectly after a single demonstration, despite his poor initial foundation 5. The technique places severe physical strain on the body; Chen Cheng suffered significant toll after performing it, although he continued to train with determination 6.

• Rapid Mastery: Chen Cheng completed the breathing techniques and mantras for the Crouching Dragon Stake without error after one demonstration, surprising Senior Brother Fang with his comprehension 5.
• Physical Resilience: Despite the extreme physical toll, Chen Cheng persistently practiced the stance, showing resilience and perseverance 6.

Health-Preserving Taiji (Health-Preserving Taiji Fist)

A martial art that emphasizes health and internal cultivation, the Health-Preserving Taiji Fist initially lacks immediate lethality for combat 4. Chen Cheng reached the entry level of this art early on, but he kept its further development hidden as a trump card. By Chapter 89, the art had reached “Break Limit (Available)” status, indicating potential for breakthrough beyond its normal limits 89.

• Entry Level: Chen Cheng achieved the entry level of the Health-Preserving Taiji Fist, gaining a new skill but recognizing it as non‑lethal for direct combat 4.
• Health Preservation Trait: At Minor Achievement, the technique gained the ability to nourish the physique, heal injuries, and warm the spirit and marrow. Its benefits also greatly improved Chen Cheng’s blood energy and senses 17 40.
• Hidden Trump Card: Chen Cheng deliberately concealed his progress in this art, waiting to reveal it when necessary 15.
• Minor Achievement (Potential): Chen Cheng noted that reaching Minor Achievement would grant another trait, deriving from the Vertical Eye Mark’s ability to solidify traits 15.
• Perfect Harmony: Further advancement granted Perfect Harmony, reducing his energy consumption by approximately 30% and supporting his unusual endurance in cultivation and combat 61 126.
• Endless Trait: At perfection, Health-Preserving Taiji unlocked Endless and generated the Taiji Primordial Qi within Chen Cheng’s mind. Endless includes Taiji Primordial Qi, Longevity of Heaven, and Reflective Renewal, providing ongoing vitality, extended health, and continual restoration 130 245.
• Continuous Integration: Chen Cheng continues to integrate Health-Preserving Taiji between other training arts, using it to support recovery, perception, and his long-term bodily development 130.

Foundation Establishment Taiji

A martial art that Chen Cheng practiced regularly. He used it effectively in combat against a demon, cutting through its tough skin. The art also integrates well with his physical body and blood qi control 134. It was derived when Health-Preserving Taiji broke its normal limit, retaining the older art’s progress and traits while creating a new path of physical refinement 90.

• Striking the Cloth‑Wrapping Demon: Chen Cheng used Foundation Establishment Taiji to deliver a strike that cut through the demon’s tough skin, demonstrating its penetrative power 134.
• Body and Blood Qi Integration: The technique allowed Chen Cheng to use his condensed blood qi in a visible vortex, enhancing the strike 134.
• Loose-Penetrating Trait: After reaching Minor Achievement, the art gained Loose-Penetrating, allowing Chen Cheng to compress and explosively release Taiji Force to counter stronger attacks 104 107.
• Constitutional Tempering: The art continuously improves Chen Cheng’s bones, skin, flesh, tendons, and organs, forming an essential component of his long-term constitution-building 157 194.

Inner-Strengthening Taiji

Inner-Strengthening Taiji was derived after Foundation Establishment Taiji reached its limit. Rather than merely strengthening the exterior, it specializes in tempering Chen Cheng’s internal organs one by one, beginning with the stomach 157.

• Stomach-Strengthening: The technique substantially improves Chen Cheng’s digestion and nutrient absorption, allowing him to process high-rank jerky and medicinal resources that would be difficult for ordinary martial artists to assimilate 187.
• Visceral Traits: Continued cultivation produced Stomach-Strengthening, Lung-Strengthening, and Heart-Strengthening, improving digestion, respiration, circulation, recovery, and physical endurance 192 203.
• Innate Martial Art: Together with Health-Preserving and Foundation Establishment Taiji, Inner-Strengthening Taiji nourishes Chen Cheng’s Taiji-based Innate Divine Spirit and remains central to his cultivation 188.

Marrow-Washing Taiji

Marrow-Washing Taiji is a higher transformation of Chen Cheng’s Taiji path, attained after he used the Azure Profound Seven-Leaf Grass. It is his principal cultivation focus during his later Divine Treasury advancement, nourishing his Innate Divine Spirit and strengthening his body from the marrow outward 202 224.

• Innate Divine Spirit Nourishment: As Chen Cheng’s chosen martial art for blood coagulation and essence generation, Taiji enables the Three Taiji and Marrow-Washing Taiji to steadily grow his Yin-Yang Divine Qi 181 188.
• True Fire Development: Chen Cheng’s Taiji Primordial Qi enabled him to harmonize Extreme Yang and Extreme Yin True Fire into Taiji True Fire, which supports his advancement toward the God-Forging Realm 244 252.
• Accelerated Cultivation: By prioritizing Marrow-Washing Taiji and combining it with high-rank Qi-deriving pills and Primordial Qi reserves, Chen Cheng advanced rapidly through the Seven-Qi realm 252.

Internal Force

Internal force is a more advanced energy system beyond mere physical strength. Chen Cheng demonstrated significant improvement in his internal force, surprising Elder Wen during a sparring session. Elder Wen revealed that he used internal force when fighting at 50% strength, and Chen Cheng’s own internal force became pure and formidable 62. The Crushing Thunder trait further amplifies internal force, enhancing its penetration and explosive effect 89.

• Sparring with Elder Wen: Chen Cheng asked Elder Wen to use 100% strength; Elder Wen used 50% and demonstrated internal force, which Chen Cheng was able to withstand and match 62.
• Combined with Crouching Dragon Fist: Chen Cheng’s internal force, boosted by the Crushing Thunder trait, allowed him to detonate a fire dragon inside a vat 89.

Moon Breath of Avici

A breathing technique that affects blood qi circulation. Chen Cheng practiced this art regularly, and it played a key role in suppressing the noise generated by other techniques. When combined with the Hidden Vitality trait, the Moon Breath of Avici allowed Chen Cheng to circulate blood qi quietly, enabling stealth 119.

• Suppression of Thunder‑Stepping Technique: Chen Cheng used the Hidden Vitality trait first, then circulated Moon Breath of Avici to mask the loud resonance of the Thunder‑Stepping Technique’s blood qi fluctuations 119.
• Regular Practice: Chen Cheng practiced Moon Breath of Avici as part of his daily cultivation regimen 91.
• Reconnaissance: He later used Moon Breath of Avici while scouting Wangyou Valley, concealing his presence during his search for resources 198.
• Iron Lung Trait: The art eventually developed the Iron Lung trait, which contributes to Chen Cheng’s extraordinary underwater endurance and breath control 174 181.

Moon Step of Impermanence

A heretical movement art that Chen Cheng learned by observing a Red Moon Nunnery remnant during a banquet. Through the Vertical Eye Mark, he instantly grasped the entry level of this art, greatly enhancing his combat mobility 85.

• Instant Mastery: Chen Cheng watched the remnant use the Moon Step and immediately acquired the entry level via the Vertical Eye Mark 85.
• Combat Enhancement: The art provides rapid, unpredictable footwork suitable for combat, though it carries the dangers associated with heretical arts 85.
• Health Preservation Countermeasure: The Health Preservation trait can mitigate the meridian alienation caused by the heretical art, allowing Chen Cheng to continue improving it without suffering its usual crippling effects 85.
• Instant Displacement: Chen Cheng used the art’s unnatural short-range shift to evade a Four-Qi Divine Treasury opponent’s attack at a critical moment 203.

Thunder-Stepping Technique

A mid-tier martial art focused primarily on footwork. Chen Cheng read the manual and instantly mastered it to the Entry level through the Vertical Eye Mark 118. Unlike the Crouching Dragon Fist, the Thunder-Stepping Technique can break its limits, allowing for further improvement beyond normal mastery. However, its blood qi circulation is violently loud, which can expose the user’s position.

• Instant Comprehension: Chen Cheng completed reading the manual and the Vertical Eye Mark seared the art into his mind, achieving Entry level immediately 118.
• Break Limit Potential: The technique has a “Break Limit (No)” status at Entry, but Chen Cheng understood it could be advanced further 118.
• Noise Issue: The technique produces a loud resonance from blood qi fluctuations, making it unsuitable for stealth without suppression (e.g., using Hidden Vitality and Moon Breath of Avici) 119.

Cloud Roc Leg Technique

The Cloud Roc Leg Technique is a Secret Chapter martial art Chen Cheng acquired after Qin Zhao displayed it flawlessly in battle. It is a lower-body cultivation art well-suited to strengthening and condensing his eighth and ninth wicks of blood qi 161.

• Perfect Entry: The Vertical Eye Mark granted Chen Cheng immediate entry after observing Qin Zhao’s complete performance of the art 161.
• Whirlwind Trait: At Minor Achievement, the technique gained Whirlwind, increasing Chen Cheng’s agility in leg-technique combat by 10% 169.
• Blood Qi Advancement: Chen Cheng used the art and the Great Roc Soaring Clouds Map to support the rapid condensation of his Eighth-Wick Blood Qi while journeying north 169.

Four Gods Profound Body

The Four Gods Profound Body · God-Rearing Chapter is a superior martial art gifted to Chen Cheng by Zhuang Zhuang. It greatly tempers his body and strengthens the first four wicks of blood qi, but requires considerable resources to prevent overexertion 94 103.

• Four Gods Trait: At Minor Achievement, the first four blood qi divine shadows become more substantial and grant a 30% enhancement to the corresponding blood qi 134.
• Profound Body Trait: At Major Achievement, the art increases Chen Cheng’s physical strength by 30% at the locations of the first four blood qi divine shadows and protects his vital points 169.
• Defensive Application: The Profound Body trait was crucial to Chen Cheng’s ability to endure a direct strike to the heart from Han Chou with little need to adjust his stance 175.

Secret Six-Harmony Great Spear and Six-Harmony Return to Simplicity Art

The Secret Six-Harmony Great Spear is a supreme secret martial art created by a Sword Pavilion ancestor. Chen Cheng mastered its spear form immediately through the Vertical Eye Mark while concealing this achievement to avoid being forced into the Sword Pavilion before he could join the Fishery Pavilion 177. Its profound internal blood-circulation method, Six-Harmony Return to Truth, later became the foundation of Chen Cheng’s Six-Harmony Return to Simplicity Art.

A high-level Sword Pavilion art that Chen Cheng eventually cultivated to Great Completion. Its ultimate attack, Six-Harmony Return to Truth, concentrates overwhelming force into a single decisive strike 216 219.

• Exceptional Blood Qi Generation: The Secret Six-Harmony Great Spear generates far more blood qi than ordinary martial arts, helping Chen Cheng prepare for the Nine-Wick Blood Qi and Divine Treasury Realm 177.
• Six-Harmony Return to Truth: This internal refinement method circulates blood energy through the meridians to unleash force exceeding that of peers, and it became one of Chen Cheng’s strongest decisive attacks 181.
• Great Completion: Chen Cheng revealed to Yuan Feiche that he had reached Great Completion in the Six-Harmony Return to Simplicity Art following two months of secluded cultivation 216.
• Killing Yan Benchu: Chen Cheng used the art’s ultimate move to kill Yan Benchu with a single punch during the Seven Sects Grand Competition 219.
• Founder’s Inheritance: Chen Cheng absorbed the Essence of Sword Qi from the Shanhai Sword Pavilion founder’s broken sword, further strengthening his cultivation and connection to the art 218.

Ten Directions Thunder Movement

A peerless Sword Pavilion movement and sword art discovered by Yuan Feiche in the ruins of a northern sage. Yuan Feiche granted the manual to Chen Cheng as a personal inheritance, and Chen Cheng rapidly mastered it through the Vertical Eye Mark and his own training 199 200.

• Afterimages: At high output, the art creates realistic afterimages that confuse opponents and allow Chen Cheng to attack from unexpected angles 200 211.
• Defeat of Su Chang'an: Chen Cheng used the art’s afterimages in a spar against fellow Three-Qi Divine Treasury cultivator Su Chang'an, defeating him decisively 200.
• Combat Against Higher Realms: Chen Cheng used the technique’s speed and illusory movement to kill the peak Five-Qi Divine Treasury expert Tu Yuan despite their cultivation disparity 209.
• Thunder Illusion Step: Chen Cheng refined the art’s core Thunder Illusion Step to a level that even other pavilion masters regarded as exceptional 222.

Mysterious Yin Palm

A palm art used by Chen Cheng during the North Foothill Mine conflict. He combined it with Qi Force to eliminate enemies surrounding the gravely wounded Qu Lingsha 205.

• Rescue of Qu Lingsha: Chen Cheng used the Mysterious Yin Palm and Qi Force to kill the remaining Immortal Bone Sect and Rebel Army enemies after Qu Lingsha was severely injured 205.

Heart-Chain Spirit-Control Art

A spirit-control technique that establishes a mental connection between its user and a spiritual beast. Chen Cheng gained entry-level mastery immediately after reading the manual through the Vertical Eye Mark 203.

• Howling Sky Eagle Link: Chen Cheng uses the art to strengthen his mental link with his Howling Sky Eagle, improving coordination and control 203.
• Tracking Application: He employed the eagle to follow Qu Lingsha during the pursuit after the North Foothill Mine attack 205.
• Howling Heaven: By his return to Zhao City, Chen Cheng’s spiritual beast is a third-rank Spirit Raptor named Howling Heaven, capable of killing elite pursuers from the Patrol Office 271.

Water Manipulation

A water-based ability Chen Cheng acquired by the time of the Seven Sects Grand Competition rewards. He used it offensively against an Immortal Bone Sect vessel 222.

• Destruction of Enemy Vessel: Chen Cheng used water manipulation to destroy a large ship carrying an Immortal Bone Sect elder and kill its occupants 222.
• Water Swords: Chen Cheng can form water into precise sword-like projectiles that pierce hearts, slit throats, and kill enemies beneath the sea with remarkable accuracy 223.
• Enhanced Current Perception: Entry-level Water Control sharpens his awareness of surrounding currents, allowing him to detect living beings concealed within submerged vessels 223.

Immortal Bone Golden Body Art and Azure Horn Golden Body Art

The Immortal Bone Golden Body Art is a Divine Treasury-level hard-body martial art that uses Innate Divine Spirit to refine the body from within. Chen Cheng initially trained it to Great Achievement, making ordinary black-iron weapons unable to cut even his hair 182 207. At perfection, its physical defense was comparable to master-crafted black-iron treasures, and it developed the Spirit Healing trait 215.

The Azure Horn Golden Body Art is a later body-tempering art associated with the Azure Horn Dragon Rhinoceros beast bone. It further increases Chen Cheng’s physical power and defense 224 225.

• Immortal Bone and Golden Body: These traits gave Chen Cheng exceptional physical resilience before he completed the art 207.
• Spirit Healing: At perfection, the Immortal Bone Golden Body Art granted significantly increased bodily self-healing 215.
• Rhinoceros Armor: The Azure Horn Golden Body Art’s Rhinoceros Armor trait raised Chen Cheng’s bodily defense to the equivalent of fourth-tier treasure armor, with the potential to eventually reach sixth-tier treasure armor 225.
• Bare-Handed Defense: Chen Cheng blocked Jiang Shuqin’s sharp flying blades with his bare hands without injury and later endured a black-iron weapon strike to the forehead without a scratch 224 228.

Dragon-Elephant Tyrant Body Art

The ultimate body-tempering art of the Fist Pavilion. Chen Cheng gained entry-level mastery immediately after reading the manual provided by Pavilion Master Chang Songbai 223.

• Physical Supremacy: The art contributes to Chen Cheng’s extraordinary physical force and resilience, enabling him to defeat Jiang Shuqin without using conventional martial techniques 224.
• Resistance to Spirit Sound Arts: His physique proved impervious to all three of Jiang Shuqin’s Spirit Sound arts 225.
• Fist Pavilion Support: Chang Songbai gave Chen Cheng access to the art, personal instruction, and the Fist Pavilion’s Geothermal Valley medicinal baths 223.

Archery

Chen Cheng developed archery from Novice proficiency into a formidable long-range combat art. By his voyage toward Northern Star Port, his arrows were described as godlike in precision and lethality 91 234.

• Divine Archery: Chen Cheng defended a vessel against sea bandits and Yin Chi through long-range archery, saving the ship and earning payment and respect from the Hai Family 234.
• Practical Instruction: He can explain martial principles through archery and combat mechanics, helping Hai Yunnuan gain insight into her palm art 234.

Still Sea Tide-Rising Palm

A palm art demonstrated by Hai Yunnuan aboard ship. Chen Cheng acquired perfect beginner mastery when he watched her complete the routine 233.

• Instant Acquisition: The Vertical Eye Mark recorded the art’s moves, mental method, and core essence after a single complete demonstration 233.
• Instruction: Chen Cheng used his understanding of the art to guide Hai Yunnuan into mastering it 234 235.

Imperial Apex Divine Edge Art

The Imperial Apex Divine Edge Art is a superior Secret Treasury-grade sword-qi martial art offered as a prize at a banquet hosted by Fourth Prince Yuwen Xun. Chen Cheng obtained and practiced it despite being warned that its copy had been altered 253 256.

• Sword Qi Manifestation: Chen Cheng can form crimson-gold sword qi from the Sword Pavilion founder’s inheritance and silver-blue sword qi from another broken sword, wielding both through the art 256.
• Mental Strength Synergy: The art’s sword qi is born from mind and spirit; Chen Cheng’s unusually powerful mental strength grants him a major advantage when using it 256.
• Questioning the Heart of Heaven and Earth: Its God-Slaying move attacks an enemy’s mental defenses and state of mind rather than their physical body, enabling invisible spiritual harm 256.
• Armor-Piercing Potential: Chen Cheng estimates that Minor Achievement would allow its sword qi to pierce seventh-grade armor, while perfection could shatter ninth-grade armor 256.

Black Law Punitive Thunder Scripture

The Black Law Punitive Thunder Scripture is a powerful and difficult martial art Chen Cheng selected after joining the Northern Emperor Demon-Subduing Sect. Its entry conditions are normally imparted only orally by a Sect Master or Peak Master 266.

• Thunder-Holding Peak Art: Chen Cheng chose the art despite Qiu Xueman’s warning and Peak Master Lu Mingyang’s expectation that he would fail to enter its path 266.
• Entry Level: Chen Cheng had reached Entry Level in the scripture by the time he continued advancing at the sect 276.
• Thunder Preparation: He tempered Ten Directions Thunder Movement in preparation for cultivating the Scripture 266.

No-Thought Moon Eye

The No-Thought Moon Eye is an ocular martial art Chen Cheng had reached Entry Level in by his later Northern Emperor Demon-Subduing Sect cultivation 276.

• Entry Level: Chen Cheng’s skill panel records the No-Thought Moon Eye at Entry Level 276.

Power Progression

Stage	Chapter/Achievement	Details
First Blood Energy Condensation	Chapter 15	Chen Cheng successfully condenses blood energy on his first attempt, causing a stir in the martial arts hall. This breakthrough demonstrates his latent talent and enables him to dissolve his Death-Pledge Contract by either paying a fee or signing on as a Martial Guard. 15
Second Wisp of Blood Qi	Chapters 34–36	Chen Cheng completes training in Crouching Dragon Fist and condenses a second column of blood and qi, marking a significant breakthrough. He later reports this progress to Senior Sister Zhuang, who confirms the condensation of the second wisp and grants him a Silver-Letter Waist Badge, entitling him to daily Venison Medicinal Meals, monthly guidance from Master Ye, and job recommendations. 34 36
Perfect Harmony	Chapter 61	Through diligent practice, Chen Cheng achieves Perfect Harmony, a state that reduces energy consumption and enhances both physical and mental activities. He subsequently requests to test his strength at fifty percent output during training with Elder Wen. 61
Third Wisp of Blood Energy	Chapter 64	Despite facing provocation and inferior food rations from Xiao Yi's faction, Chen Cheng visits the Inner Hall to report his successful condensation of a third wisp of blood energy, qualifying him for the Inner Hall. News of this achievement spreads quickly, causing other disciples to treat him with deference. 64 65
Fourth Pillar of Blood Energy (Hidden Force)	Chapter 88	During his fight with Yan Huaiqing, Chen Cheng condenses his fourth pillar of blood energy and manifests Hidden Force. Though he has not yet tamed or consolidated his new realm, the newly condensed blood energy is exceptionally powerful, allowing him to suppress Yan Huaiqing and create a massive fire dragon with a single punch. 88
Fifth-Incense Blood Qi & Foundation Establishment Taiji (Minor Accomplishment)	Chapter 104	After a month of tempering Foundation Establishment Taiji, Chen Cheng reaches Minor Accomplishment and gains the characteristic 'Loose-Penetrating'. Simultaneously, he has condensed the Fifth-Incense Blood Qi, marking continued growth in his martial arts and blood energy. 104
Decision to Condense the Ninth Wick	Chapter 177	Chen Cheng masters the Secret Six-Harmony Great Spear technique, which generates more blood qi than ordinary martial arts. He resolves to condense the ninth wick of blood qi within three or four days, aiming to reach the Divine Treasury realm. 177
Nine-Wick Blood Qi (Divine Treasury Realm)	Chapter 181	Chen Cheng successfully condenses his Nine-Wick Blood Qi and defeats Dong Chuo, earning significant resources. He later demonstrates exceptional underwater speed and endurance, surpassing Chai Liang and Li Li, with his Natural Iron Lung noted as a key advantage. 181
Peak Two-Qi Divine Treasury	Chapter 198	Chen Cheng reaches the peak of the Two-Qi Divine Treasury realm after continued cultivation, resource gathering, and combat in the Dark Reef Forest. 198
Three-Qi Divine Treasury Realm	Chapter 200	After mastering Ten Directions Thunder Movement, Chen Cheng breaks through to the Three-Qi Divine Treasury realm. He demonstrates the new art’s afterimages and defeats Su Chang'an, another Three-Qi cultivator, in a spar. 200
Four-Qi Divine Treasury Realm	Chapter 216	Following two months of seclusion, Chen Cheng breaks through to Four-Qi Divine Treasury and reveals that he has cultivated the Six-Harmony Return to Simplicity Art to Great Completion. 216
Mid-Stage Four-Qi Divine Treasury	Chapter 218	Chen Cheng absorbs the Essence of Sword Qi from the Sword Pavilion founder’s broken sword, advancing his cultivation to the middle stage of Four-Qi. 218
Five-Qi Divine Treasury Realm	Chapters 218–224	During the Yunlei Seven Sects Grand Competition, Chen Cheng displays combat power beyond ordinary Five-Qi practitioners. He later reaches the middle stage of Five-Qi after tempering his body at Abyss Grotto-Heaven. 218 224
Six-Qi Divine Treasury Realm	Chapter 225	Chen Cheng breaks through to the Six-Qi Divine Treasury realm amid the Shanhai Sect crisis, unlocking new traits in Marrow-Washing Taiji and Azure Horn Golden Body Art. 225
Seven-Qi Divine Treasury Realm	Chapter 252	After concentrating for months on Marrow-Washing Taiji, high-rank Qi-deriving pills, and the Primordial Qi within the Yin Chi Pearl, Chen Cheng reaches the Seven-Qi Divine Treasury realm and quickly advances to its middle stage. 252 253
Peak Nine-Qi Divine Treasury Realm	Chapter 260	Chen Cheng reaches the peak of the Nine-Qi Divine Treasury realm before the Northern Emperor Demon-Subduing Sect entrance selection, possessing combat strength sufficient to dominate opponents beneath the God-Forging Realm. 260
Nine-Qi Divine Treasury Realm Confirmed	Chapter 267	The ninth-rank Cloud-Climbing Pill supplies enough Innate Divine Spirit Qi for Chen Cheng to condense his ninth strand of Two-Forms Divine Qi, stabilizing him in the early Nine-Qi Divine Treasury realm and revealing the shackles of his first Divine Aperture. 267
First Divine Aperture / God-Forging Advancement	Chapters 276–279	Chen Cheng opens and cultivates his first Divine Aperture at an extraordinary speed through multiple True Fires. The Divine Treasury within that aperture becomes extraordinarily bright, indicating immense potential beyond ordinary sect standards. 276 279

Relationships

Madam Li

Chen Cheng’s mother is his closest familial bond and a constant source of emotional support. From the earliest days of his martial arts journey, Madam Li worries about his safety and finances, but her pride in his achievements grows as he advances 66. She transforms alongside him, adopting the demeanor of a lady of a prominent household while still cooking for him and worrying over his sacrifices 129 108. She also helps prepare rare ingredients like the Green-Silver Dragon for his consumption, showing her willingness to assist his cultivation even in unpleasant tasks 116. Her love is demonstrated through making clothes and shoes for him before he departs for the Shanhai Sect 166.

Upon Chen Cheng’s later return to Zhao City, Madam Li is overjoyed to be reunited with him and resolves to trust his decisions fully rather than add to his burdens. His killing of the Ti Cavalryman who harassed her and his subsequent confrontation with the Pang Family underscore the extent to which he remains determined to protect her 271.

Fatty Fang

Fatty Fang acts as an early mentor and loyal friend to Chen Cheng. He guides Chen Cheng through the Middle Academy, warns him about the dangers of the Inner Hall, and later reveals his own hidden strength of six incense sticks of blood energy 21 83. Their relationship deepens as they spar together, with Chen Cheng demonstrating rapid progress to Six-Wick Blood Qi 137. Fatty Fang also offers protection to Madam Li on behalf of Chen Cheng and suggests a marriage match between his cousin and Chen Cheng, showing his investment in Chen Cheng’s future 65 66. He expresses gratitude when Chen Cheng helps him return to the Inner Hall 84.

Fang Wenhou later reunites with Chen Cheng in Zhao City while emaciated and injured, yet remains loyal to his junior brother and eager for his return 271.

Ye Yang

Ye Yang is initially a stern examiner who finds Chen Cheng “ordinary” after a physical examination, but he later becomes a concerned mentor and ally. He informs Chen Cheng about the Longshan Middle Academy assessment and advises him not to compete with Xiao Yi 66. After Chen Cheng’s bone-reading, Ye Yang drapes his coat over Chen Cheng and hints at a potential farewell as Chen Cheng ascends to the Upper Academy, showing genuine care 108. Ye Yang is also ambushed and injured by an unknown assailant, requiring a long recovery period 83. Before Chen Cheng sought entry into the Nine Altars Sect, Ye Yang also left him the rare Red Heart Ganoderma as a final parting gift 165.

Zhuang Zhuang

Zhuang Zhuang is a young boy from a wealthy family who becomes attached to Chen Cheng. In early chapters, Lu Song detects the scent of precious medicine on Zhuang Zhuang, indicating his background 63. Later, Zhuang Zhuang visits Chen Cheng’s home, bonding with Madam Li over lunch and showing affection toward her 137. She also clears up a misunderstanding with her aunt and invites Chen Cheng to dinner, providing him with information about gifts 114. Her aunt and uncle-in-law, Zhuang Huixian and Yu Feng, host Chen Cheng for a meal where they discuss his background and future plans 113 114.

Chen Cheng later offers Zhuang Zhuang a room and Treasure Fish resources to help prepare for the Martial Selection 142. By the time he returns to Zhao City, Zhuang Zhuang remains loyal to him and is stunned by the vast gap between his former and current strength 271.

Cao Zhao

Cao Zhao is a fellow disciple who becomes a significant ally and friend. He is initially arrogant, engaging in a physical altercation with Fatty Fang that reveals Fatty Fang’s hidden strength 83. Later, he shows generosity by inviting Chen Cheng to the Immortal Pavilion in the Inner City and introducing him to influential figures 84. He also informs Chen Cheng about the Young Qilin Gathering and reveals his own engagement to a descendant of the Pang Family, which will grant him access to secret-transmission techniques 137.

Cao Zhao later visits Chen Cheng’s Zhao City residence with Xia Yingying, but his loyalty to Chen Cheng conflicts with the demands of Xia Zhengxiong and the Pang Family; he ultimately leaves under this pressure 271.

Shi Lei

Shi Lei is an early friend from the Lower Academy who shows aggression and recklessness but also loyalty. He fights Wang Han in the monthly minor competition and is defeated, with Chen Cheng challenging Wang Han afterward 13. As Chen Cheng’s status grows, Shi Lei is reassigned from cleaning latrines to helping in the back kitchen due to Chen Cheng’s influence, and he gains newfound respect and admiration for Chen Cheng’s achievements 65.

Qian Baolu

Qian Baolu is a friend who admires Chen Cheng’s integrity. He expresses admiration when Chen Cheng refuses to associate with Xiao Yi and Liang Guang despite their newfound power, highlighting Chen Cheng’s focus on personal growth over external validation 63. They share a meal, showing a growing bond 65.

Wu Ziyu

Wu Ziyu is a powerful figure from the Wu Family who seeks to build a good relationship with Chen Cheng. After learning of his connections, she agrees to let him spar in her place and gifts him a Green-Silver Dragon Treasure Fish 116. Chen Cheng attends her wedding and causes a stir by gifting 100,000 coins, demonstrating his wealth and status 129.

Zhou Yonglu

Zhou Yonglu is a senior figure who sends gifts to Chen Cheng through his brothers Zhou Ping and Zhou An, including a Treasure Fish and a unique black vat 129. Zhou An acts as a mediator, assuring Chen Cheng there is no ill intent and that the Wu and Zhou families have no enmity 129 116. Zhou An also advises Zhou Yonglu to build a good relationship with Chen Cheng 116.

Xiao Yi and Liang Guang

Xiao Yi is a former acquaintance who tries to maintain a friendship after gaining power, but Chen Cheng declines his invitations to banquets due to principles. Xiao Yi’s reputation is damaged when erotic materials are found in his possession 63. Liang Guang is also part of that circle; Chen Cheng’s refusal to associate with them underscores his integrity 63.

Shen Mi

Shen Mi acts as a contact from the Shen Family, providing Chen Cheng with the Frost Bone White herb and warning him about its value and potential danger 83.

Elder Wen

Elder Wen trains with Chen Cheng, acknowledging his progress and willingness to spar 83.

Zhu Mingyuan

Zhu Mingyuan warns Chen Cheng about the ambush on Ye Yang and the unsolved murder of Xiao Yi, advising cooperation with the Ti Cavalry if questioned 83.

Pang Shixun

Pang Shixun performs a bone-reading on Chen Cheng and is confused by his unusual physical condition (infant-like bones, high-potential tendons). He offers to evaluate Chen Cheng’s talent after three months, hinting at a potential sect recommendation 108. He later judges Chen Cheng’s root bone unlikely to earn ordinary sect admission, but offers to introduce him to a Nine Altars Sect elder and suggests official service as an alternative route 162.

The Pang Family later becomes openly hostile to Chen Cheng after Pang Wanhe attempts to arrest him in Zhao City. Chen Cheng kills Pang Wanhe and six Five-Qi Divine Treasury grand masters sent by the family, turning the relationship into an irreconcilable conflict 271.

Yu Feng and Zhuang Huixian

Yu Feng is Zhuang Zhuang’s uncle-in-law, a stern and authoritative figure who respects Chen Cheng’s connection to the Zhuang family. He invites Chen Cheng to dinner and approves of his humble origins 113. Zhuang Huixian, Zhuang Zhuang’s aunt, is warm and welcoming, asking about Chen Cheng’s background and future plans 114.

Du Wenshun

Du Wenshun is a caravan leader who offers Chen Cheng a ride north to the Shanhai Sect and provides him with Nine Altars Blood-Boosting Pills, showing appreciation and respect 166.

Lin Fengxiao

Lin Fengxiao promises to inform Chen Cheng of any news regarding the use of human heads in medicine, demonstrating loyalty and gratitude 166.

Li Wenrou

At the Shanhai Sect, Li Wenrou shares her concerns about her family members fighting in the northern war, and she and Chen Cheng share a moment of understanding and connection over missing family members 172. She is from the Sword Pavilion. She later explains the advantages of becoming a pavilion master’s personal disciple and continues to provide Chen Cheng with practical guidance about sect resources 198.

Li Wenrou also explains the requirements for selecting a martial art to condense blood and generate Innate Divine Spirit, helping Chen Cheng confirm his decision to use Taiji as his foundational innate martial art 177.

Other Disciples at Shanhai Sect

Upon arriving at the Shanhai Sect, Chen Cheng bonds with Su Bing, Ding Lu, Ning Chong, Ma Song, and Lu Shang over dinner, discussing the different pavilions. Ning Chong shows deference to Chen Cheng, acknowledging his superior status 172.

Yuan Feiche

Yuan Feiche is the future Sword Pavilion Master and becomes one of Chen Cheng’s principal supporters at Shanhai Sect. He grants Chen Cheng the peerless Ten Directions Thunder Movement, personally evaluates his sword arts, and grows increasingly convinced that Chen Cheng is vital to the sect’s future 199 201 216. He publicly supports Chen Cheng during the Seven Sects Grand Competition and presents him with a Divine Physiognomy Sect selection token on the condition that he reach Seven-Qi Divine Treasury 221 222.

Geng Yuliang

Geng Yuliang is a Fist Pavilion elder who recognizes Chen Cheng’s exceptional combat instincts and personally seeks to recruit him after watching him defeat Qian Hai and Zhou Cunfeng 190. He later feeds Chen Cheng moves in sparring, admires his mental resilience, and advocates nurturing him as one of Shanhai Sect’s most promising disciples 191 225.

Jiang Yujiao

Jiang Yujiao is a powerful Shanhai Sect figure whose relationship with Chen Cheng becomes increasingly close. She initially oversees the evaluation of his character for Sea Academy entry 174. Later, Chen Cheng discovers a Gu Insect egg in a Dragon Marrow Pill and realizes that she carries a Gu Insect within her; the two agree to keep the matter secret and help one another 222. Chen Cheng subsequently removes Yin-attributed Sha Qi from her injuries and suppresses the Gu Insect, earning her complete trust and deepening their bond 225.

Li Li

Li Li is a Shanhai Sect disciple who becomes a close ally of Chen Cheng. She observes his unmatched underwater endurance, warns him against dangerous figures such as Shen Wanqing, and later accompanies him on missions 181 221 203. Chen Cheng heals her injury using his innate essence, further strengthening their relationship 203.

Song Linwei

Song Linwei is an influential supporter who recognizes Chen Cheng’s potential and assists him during the Seven Sects Grand Competition 218. Chen Cheng later accepts her challenge arrangement with Jiang Shuqin in order to demonstrate his value, winning sixty pieces of fourth-rank Strange Tiger Jerky and securing her continued admiration and support 224.

Song Linwei later learns that Chen Cheng was responsible for slaying the demonic Yin Chi and continues to provide him with support, intelligence, resources, and invitations connected to his advancement in Emperorfall City 264.

Qu Lingsha

Qu Lingsha initially regards Chen Cheng with hostility because of his ties to Li Li and Li Jinge. During the North Foothill Mine conflict, however, Chen Cheng saves her after Mo Wuya’s final attack severely injures her, eliminating the surrounding enemies with his Mysterious Yin Palm and Qi Force 205.

Ji Jingyou

Ji Jingyou was initially a formidable rival whom Chen Cheng defeated in the final of the Seven Sects Grand Competition. After Chen Cheng dispersed Ji Jingyou’s Mysterious Heaven Wandering Dragon with a single crimson-gold Sword Qi, Ji Jingyou conceded and recognized Chen Cheng’s superiority 220.

Their relationship later changes substantially when Chen Cheng teaches Ji Jingyou the Mysterious Heaven Dragon Swimming technique and helps him break through his cultivation bottleneck. Ji Jingyou becomes deeply grateful, performs a formal kowtow, and accepts Chen Cheng as a martial teacher 256. He thereafter views Chen Cheng as a supreme prodigy deserving of the respect and resources he receives 261.

Qiu Tongtian

Qiu Tongtian is a venerable of the Northern Emperor Demon-Subduing Sect who notices Chen Cheng during the Seven Sects Grand Competition and selects him as a promising entrant for the sect 219 220. He continues to recognize Chen Cheng’s rapid advancement, accompanies him during his later travels, and provides cultivation resources including a ninth-rank Cloud-Climbing Pill 253 266.

Yuwen Xun

Yuwen Xun, the Fourth Prince of Great Shang, initially publicly praises Chen Cheng and attempts to cultivate a relationship with him during a banquet 253. However, after Chen Cheng defeats him and other powerful challengers, Yuwen Xun develops a deep hatred for Chen Cheng and intends to seek revenge when an opportunity arises 256 264.

Yuwen Min

Yuwen Min is connected to the imperial faction and initially appears helpful toward Chen Cheng. She warns him that the Imperial Apex Divine Edge Art has been altered and offers to assist in correcting it 256. Her true motives remain uncertain, making Chen Cheng cautious of her apparent goodwill 256.

Lu Mingyang

Lu Mingyang is the Peak Master of Thunder-Holding Peak in the Northern Emperor Demon-Subduing Sect. He becomes interested in Chen Cheng after witnessing his performance and later intervenes to spare Yuwen Xun after Chen Cheng defeats him 263 264. Though initially disappointed by Chen Cheng’s choice of the Black Law Punitive Thunder Scripture, Lu Mingyang is positioned to oversee his development within Thunder-Holding Peak 266.

Hai Yunnuan

Hai Yunnuan is the eldest daughter of the Hai Family. After Chen Cheng saves her ship from sea bandits through his divine archery, she sincerely seeks his guidance in martial arts 234. Under Chen Cheng’s instruction, she gains insight into and ultimately masters the Still Sea Tide-Rising Palm, developing considerable respect for him 234 235.

Ning Shuangxu

Ning Shuangxu is a blind young woman among the civilians rescued by the Black Armor Alligator Turtle. She asks Chen Cheng for help performing a zither piece left by her mother and offers herself as a slave in exchange 235. Her unusual request establishes a tentative connection with Chen Cheng during his journey toward Northern Star Port 235.