Zhou Mu (simplified: 周牧, traditional: 周牧, pinyin: Zhōu Mù, jyutping: zau1 muk6) was a member of the Golden Saber Stronghold and An Fengtian’s subordinate. He was skilled in Eagle Claw techniques and participated in the attack on Wu Daotong.
Biography
Attack on Wu Daotong
Zhou Mu participated in the Golden Saber Stronghold’s attack on Wu Daotong at Houjianji. He was described as a short, thin old man who was skilled in Eagle Claw techniques. During the fight, Zhou Mu used his finger techniques to attack Wu Daotong’s vital points.
Defeating Wu Daotong
Zhou Mu was able to strike Wu Daotong in the chest with his palm techniques, breaking several of Wu Daotong’s ribs and causing him to fall from the roof. This was a crucial blow that contributed to Wu Daotong’s eventual death.
Searching for the Mysterious Iron Token
After Wu Daotong’s death, Zhou Mu searched his body and found a package, which he took. However, when Shi Qing and Min Rou caught up with him, they discovered that the package only contained three copper coins, not the Mysterious Iron Token.
Personality and characteristics
Skill and determination
Zhou Mu demonstrated skill and determination in the attack on Wu Daotong. He was able to contribute significantly to Wu Daotong’s defeat, showing his martial arts abilities.
Loyalty to the Golden Saber Stronghold
Zhou Mu was loyal to An Fengtian and the Golden Saber Stronghold, following orders and participating in missions to retrieve the Mysterious Iron Token.
Martial arts abilities
Zhou Mu was skilled in Eagle Claw techniques, which he used to attack vital points. He was capable of using finger techniques with great speed and precision, as demonstrated in his fight with Wu Daotong. His palm techniques were also powerful enough to break ribs.
Behind the scenes
Zhou Mu represents the theme of loyalty and duty in Ode to Gallantry. His character demonstrates how subordinates serve their leaders and organizations, even when the missions are dangerous.
The character’s name, “Zhou Mu” (周牧), combines the surname “Zhou” (周) with “Mu” (牧), meaning “to herd” or “to tend,” suggesting a character who serves and follows orders. His role in the novel’s opening helps establish the conflict surrounding the Mysterious Iron Token and the various factions competing for it.