A member of a modest branch of the Lin clan in the small town of Qingyang, Lin Dong sees his father, Lin Xiao, live every day with the after-effects of a fight lost years ago to Lin Langtian, the prodigy of the main branch. The day he finds a mysterious stone at the bottom of a stream, he finally has a way to restore his family's honour.
Personality
Stubborn, brave and deeply attached to his loved ones, Lin Dong never backs down from someone stronger. He can also be cunning and patient when needed, and his generosity earns him loyal allies.
Powers & abilities
The Ancestral Stone speeds up his cultivation and houses several spirits, including Little Marten, a mischievous demon who becomes his companion. Lin Dong also masters Emblems, seals of power, and gathers techniques throughout his travels.
History
Leaving Qingyang to challenge the Lin clan's main branch, he travels through ever larger realms. He discovers that the Ancestral Stone is tied to an ancient war against the Yimo, demons from beyond, and finds himself at the heart of the fight to protect the world.
Relationships
His father, Lin Xiao, is the first reason for his fight. Ling Qingzhu is his great love, and Ying Huanhuan a dear ally. Little Marten is his most loyal friend, while Lin Langtian, his father's rival, becomes his own.
Key moments
- Finding the Ancestral Stone at the bottom of a stream.
- His first fight against Lin Langtian, finally avenging his father.
- The revelation of the Yimo threat, which raises the stakes to the whole world.
In the adaptations
The drama Martial Universe (2018), starring Yang Yang, brought the story to a wide audience. The 3D donghua, launched in 2021, adapts Tian Can Tu Dou's novel more faithfully.
Did you know?
- Martial Universe (Wu Dong Qian Kun) is by Tian Can Tu Dou, author of Battle Through the Heavens and The Great Ruler.
- Lin Dong's name (林动) echoes the Chinese title, Wu Dong Qian Kun, "the martial art that shakes the world".
Our take
Lin Dong is a solid hero who fights for his father's honour before fighting for the world. His pairing with Little Marten brings welcome lightness to an epic saga.
— Spidermas, for Donghua Fan