The Making of a False Hero

This flow follows how public stories, flattery, and reputation distort perceptions of Xiao Feng, You TanZhi, and the factions around them.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Outcast's Reputation

A Name Rewritten Accusation travels Stories portray Qiao Feng as a traitor who killed his parents, master, and friends. His identity and actions are reduced to a list of charges. A man hears his own verdict Xiao Feng is pained by how the Central Plains remembers him. The gap between reputation and experience becomes another form of exile.

Praise as a Weapon

Flattery Follows Power Disciples praise the strong Xingxiu disciples alternately glorify Zhaixingzi and condemn him as he loses advantage. Their declarations follow immediate power rather than stable belief. A performance of loyalty The same pattern appears when Ding Chunqiu's followers praise him after a crisis. Speech becomes a survival tactic, making public admiration unreliable as a measure of virtue.

You TanZhi as Hero

A Captive's Borrowed Glory The Beggar Society appeals to him Trapped Xingxiu disciples call You TanZhi a hero and promise riches if he rescues them. Their praise temporarily gives him an identity he has rarely experienced. Recognition evaporates Once the snakes retreat, the disciples credit Ding Chunqiu and ignore You TanZhi. He learns that praise can be opportunistic, though he still longs to believe it.

A Court's Hero

Public Gratitude A rescuer acclaimed Citizens and officials praise Xiao Feng for saving the royal family and stopping the rebellion. Their gratitude is sincere, unlike the rumors that have condemned him in the Central Plains. Recognition without peace The acclaim does not resolve Xiao Feng's identity conflict or make him comfortable with office. Public honor proves as changeable as public disgrace.

An Honor He Did Not Seek

Authority and Reputation Rank bestowed Xiao Feng accepts high office to honor his sworn brother, not because he desires wealth or status. The title makes him a celebrated servant of Liao. Contradictory judgment In the Central Plains, the same identity makes him an enemy; in Liao, it makes him a savior. His life exposes how reputation depends on political community rather than a single moral standard.

After Qiao Feng is expelled from the Beggar Society

During the Xingxiu Sect gathering

During the Beggar Society's battle with Ding Chunqiu

After Xiao Feng suppresses the Liao rebellion

After Xiao Feng is appointed to the Southern Chancellery