Tang

Biodata

Background / History

The Tang have worshipped the great serpent of Hangzhou as a god since ancient times. Known to outsiders chiefly through legend, the serpent is regarded as the city’s guardian and is associated with West Lake 201. Tang Yue says her people have guarded the Totem Black Snake for generations, while it has protected the region—first a village, and later Hangzhou 467.

Tang Yue grew up in lakeside villages outside the Safe Zone, where residents trusted the serpent’s protection. As a child, she was saved by it from a rogue Fang Beast; that experience shaped her determination to protect it in return 466 478.

Story Role / Major Arcs

• The shedding crisis — The Totem Black Snake becomes vulnerable during its once-a-decade shedding. Suspecting that someone within the clan is cooperating with outsiders, Tang Yue recruits Mo Xie to help protect it 468.
• Threat of elimination — After deaths are attributed to the snake, Councilor Zhu Meng demands its destruction. Tang Zhong secretly arranges for Tang Yue and Mo Xie to move it while it is too weak to defend itself 476 478.
• Return to Hangzhou — The snake survives its shedding and returns to West Lake. Tang Yue condemns Councilor Luo Mian for his actions against it 507.

Relationships

• Totem Black Snake — Ancient guardian worshipped by the Tang; their people have protected it for generations 201 467.
• Tang Yue — A guardian who entrusts Mo Xie with the secret of the snake’s shedding and works to keep it safe 468 478.
• Tang Zhong — Tang Yue’s uncle and Chief Judge of the Lingyin Temple Judgment Hall; covertly helps move the snake beyond Zhu Meng’s reach 478.