What happens when a loyal follower starts defending their idol's greatest rival? In the Wuxia drama The Journey of Legend (赴山海), the complex relationship between Song Mingzhu (宋明珠) and her master Liu Suifeng (柳随风) takes an unexpected turn when she shows admiration for his sworn enemy Xiao Qiushui (萧秋水). This character dynamic reveals much more than simple conflict—it shows how genuine chivalry can change someone's worldview.
Different Loyalties
Song Mingzhu stands out among Liu Suifeng's followers. She possesses exceptional martial skills and unwavering devotion to her master. Growing up in the competitive Jianghu world where strength determines survival, she has learned to be both powerful and obedient. Her eyes betray deep emotion whenever she looks at Liu Suifeng, yet she maintains proper distance, nurturing unspoken feelings she dare not reveal.
When White Phoenix confronted her about these hidden emotions, she reacted with shy confusion rather than anger. This moment revealed her softer nature beneath the tough exterior required by her position. Unlike others in the martial world, she finds ways to comfort herself even when neglected, always hoping for just a glance of recognition from the person she respects most.
Her character shows that true strength doesn't require complete hardness. Even within the demanding environment of martial arts society, she maintains human warmth and capacity for growth. This balance makes her particularly compelling as she navigates the complicated relationships and expectations surrounding her.
Unexpected Respect
The crucial test came when Xiao Qiushui faced death from the overpowering Yang Dan energy. Rather than take advantage of her vulnerability, he chose to preserve her dignity at the risk of his own life. This act of true chivalry deeply moved Song Mingzhu, planting seeds of respect and admiration in her heart. It demonstrated a moral character completely different from what she had known.
When Liu Suifeng discovered she had concealed that Xiao Qiushui consumed the Wuji Xian Dan (无极仙丹), his anger wasn't primarily about the complicated feud between them. Instead, he felt betrayed that his most loyal follower seemed to be showing sympathy toward his rival. His reaction revealed deeper personal investment in her loyalty than purely strategic concerns.
Song Mingzhu's response to Liu Suifeng's questioning revealed her changing perspective. She cautiously explained that Xiao Qiushui seemed different from anyone she had previously encountered. Being near him made her feel that perhaps there existed another way to live beyond constant conflict and survival struggles.
Changing Perspectives
Viewers who suggest Song Mingzhu should learn from Jiao Liqiao (角丽谯) misunderstand her fundamental nature. While both women serve powerful masters in the martial world, their approaches differ completely. Jiao Liqiao's love manifests as possession and destruction if unmet, while Song Mingzhu's devotion expresses itself through quiet companionship and emotional restraint.
The true significance of Xiao Qiushui's influence lies in how it expands her understanding of what constitutes genuine strength. His chivalry provides emotional comfort she hadn't experienced in her harsh environment. This exposure to different values creates internal conflict but also offers new possibilities for how she might live.
Liu Suifeng's confusion stems from recognizing this shift in his most trusted follower. Her growing appreciation for his rival's values challenges his own worldview and their relationship. The drama skillfully explores how encounters with true righteousness can transform even the most hardened hearts, suggesting that real martial virtue isn't about defeating opponents but about inspiring change through moral example.
