Lying on a stretcher, with no arms or legs, the village chief seems the frailest of the elders. Yet he is the one who holds this extraordinary community together, and who teaches Qin Mu the art of the sword.
Personality
Wise, mischievous and naturally authoritative, the village chief knows how to lead the other elders. Behind his calm lie an iron will and great love for Qin Mu.
Powers & abilities
A legendary sword master, he passes on to Qin Mu a technique of exceptional depth despite his mutilated body. His knowledge far exceeds what his appearance suggests.
History
A refugee in the Great Ruins with the other elders, he runs the village and organises Qin Mu's education. His founding lie, which pushed the whole village to invest in the boy's upbringing, is one of the story's most touching mainsprings.
Relationships
Qin Mu is his pupil and almost his grandson. He is the chief and pillar of the village elders.
Key moments
- His sword lessons, given from his stretcher.
- His advice before Qin Mu leaves.
- The revelation of his founding lie.
In the adaptations
The donghua highlights the contrast between his apparent frailty and real power. The novel details his past further.
Did you know?
- He is often cited as one of xuanhuan's most original mentors.
- Teaching the sword with no arms or legs is one of the series' strongest images.
Our take
The village chief is an unforgettable mentor whose strength is measured by what he passes on. He embodies the spirit of Tales of Herding Gods.
— Spidermas, for Donghua Fan