Ashes of Time

A former friend of Huang Yaoshi who leaves White Camel Mountain after his brother's wedding and sets up an inn near a desert village. He offers his services as a killer and descends into a psychotic trajectory, ultimately reemerging as the Western Venom. His arc centers on obsession, violence, and a costly withdrawal from his past life.

A close friend of Ouyang Feng who visits the inn yearly to drink with him before heading for White Camel Mountain. He brings a jar that can erase memories, but Ouyang declines to use it; Huang’s romantic entanglement and impulsive behavior trigger the story's emotional currents and conflicts.

A noble from Yan who manipulates relationships through desire and ambiguity. Murong Yang and Murong Yin are revealed to be the same person, blurring identity and intention. Her pursuit of control over marriage and affection drives key confrontations and reflects themes of possession.

A traveling martial artist who crosses paths with Ouyang Feng at the inn, representing the ever-present danger and competition in the martial world. He embodies skill and restraint, adding tension to the inn’s fragile balance of power.

Wife of Huang Yaoshi and a figure central to his past behavior and romantic history. Her presence anchors the emotional stakes of Huang and Ouyang, influencing loyalties and choices in the narrative.

An old friend of Huang Yaoshi who is rapidly losing his sight. He seeks to return home to Peach Blossom and offers his services to protect the village as a last means to fund that journey. He is ultimately overwhelmed and killed in battle.

A down-and-out martial artist who trades his services for a single egg, losing a finger in the process and later becoming the Northern Beggar. His arc illustrates endurance and the harsh survival instincts of the martial world.

A village girl who offers her mule and eggs to the inn in hopes of protection, choosing to stay by the inn after being rejected. Her quiet resilience highlights the human cost of the surrounding chaos.