Old Jack

Biodata

Background and History

Old Jack found Chu Chen as a baby and raised him as his grandson in impoverished Holy Soul Village. He often ate less so the boy would have enough, and accepted food that neighbors quietly contributed to help raise him 1 2. For Chu Chen’s sixth birthday, he served meat porridge, gave the boy most of the meat, and claimed a rabbit had conveniently run into a tree rather than admit he had bought it 2.

As village chief, Jack arranged the children’s Martial Soul awakening and took pride when Chu Chen proved to have Innate Full Soul Power 4 6 9. He initially reserved the village’s only work-study place at Notting City Junior Soul Master Academy for Chu Chen. The decision troubled him because Tang San also had Soul Master potential, and Jack had long helped the Tang family with food 9 14 16.

After Tang San rejected his help, Jack defended the promise made to Chu Chen when Tang Hao returned to demand the place. He ultimately handed over the enrollment certificate following Chu Chen’s bargain with the Tangs 17 20 22. Jack then traveled to neighboring villages, secured an unused work-study place, and persuaded the academy to admit Chu Chen. He told his grandson that he did not have to attend, but Jack could not leave him without the chance 28. Jack accompanied Chu Chen to Notting City and departed after his admission was confirmed 29 31.

Appearance

Old Jack is an elderly, thin man with gray hair, a graying beard, cloudy eyes, and a hunched back 4 9 20 28.

• Usually wears patched linen clothes; for the village awakening, he changed into a faded long robe and combed his hair neatly 4.
• Is past sixty by the time Tang Hao confronts him over the academy place 20.

Personality

Jack’s affection is practical and sometimes stern: he scolds Chu Chen for fighting or taking risks, but puts the boy’s food, safety, and future before his own comfort 2 4 14. He is proud of Chu Chen’s talent without demanding greatness from him 4 17.

His concern extends beyond his household. He tries to help Tang San despite the boys’ conflict and openly condemns Tang Hao’s treatment of his son 16. Jack is also stubborn about keeping the village’s word, even when Tang Hao threatens him 20. Although he recognizes that Chu Chen has unusual abilities and secrets, he does not press for an explanation; he asks whether they put his grandson in danger 23.

Relationships

• Chu Chen — Adopted grandson. Jack raised him from infancy, sought an academy place for him, and worries more about his safety than his achievements 1 17 23 28.
• Tang San — A village child whose family Jack helped feed. Jack tried to protect his chance at an education and was deeply hurt when Tang San rejected his concern 16 17.
• Tang Hao — Village blacksmith. Jack condemns his treatment of Tang San and later resists his demand for the work-study place 16 20.
• Su Yuntao — Spirit Hall representative whom Jack welcomes for the village awakening. Jack takes offense when Su Yuntao warns that Chu Chen’s Martial Soul may limit his future 4 7.

Notable Quotes

“Don't set your sights too high. Staying safe comes first.” 4

“This is the best thing Grandpa can give you... You don't have to go, Little Chen, but Grandpa couldn't let you be left without the chance!” 28