A young boy who goes everywhere with Dao Ma, Xiao Qi was taken out of Chang'an by the escort when he was just a baby.
Personality
Lively, curious and endearing, Xiao Qi brings a little lightness to Dao Ma's harsh world. He admires his protector and follows him without hesitation.
Powers & abilities
Still a child, he does not really fight, but he learns from Dao Ma.
History
His origins are said to be tied to the Sui court, which explains why Dao Ma had to flee the capital with him. Their almost paternal bond is the emotional heart of the work.
Relationships
Dao Ma is his protector and almost his father.
Key moments
- His travelling life alongside Dao Ma.
- The moments when he is in danger.
- The clues about his origins.
In the adaptations
The donghua and manhua emphasise his relationship with Dao Ma, which softens the story's brutality.
Did you know?
- His presence humanises Dao Ma and gives the story its family dimension.
- His origins are one of the series' mysteries.
Our take
Xiao Qi is the childhood in a world of blades. He reminds us why Dao Ma fights.
— Spidermas, for Donghua Fan