Zhi Gou

Name: Zhi Gou
Race: Inu
Gender: Male
Age: 61
Height: 6’0”
Weight: 330 lbs
Eye Color: Brown
Hair Color: Reddish Brown
Birthplace: Teda Changshi
Current Residence: Teda Changshi
Family: None Known
Occupation: Owner of the Mountainside Tavern
Personality: The first impression that Zhi Gou makes with anyone is that he is a jovial and easy going individual who always greets everyone with a smile. It’s extremely difficult for for anyone to upset him, as he usually manages to find a way to deflect any threats and verbal attacks that get under his skin. Not only that, but Zhi Gou is always happy to give sagely advice. As a result of this, many have taken keenly to his good manners and personality, which in turn makes his tavern a popular resting spot.

In spite of his relaxed temperament, Zhi Gou does have a breaking point. If anyone were to actually threaten the stability of his bar or customers, Zhi Gou would be sure to put down any offenders. For that, even the meek are welcome at his bar.

Yet, for all his advice and defense of the weak, Zhi Gou is a man of little ambition. Many presume this comes from a jaded past where he was disgraced. Whatever the reason, Zhi Gou’s lips are sealed.
Appearance: Zhi Gou is a large and stout man with long, messy reddish brown hair. He has brown eyes, but they’re often not seen due to his squinting. His beard is quite hairy, and extends down to his stomach.

Zhi Gou tends to wear simplistic clothes, most often loose and comfortable gis. He’ll wear sandals with ankle socks most times. On his sash, he’ll always be carrying a gourd of some sort.
Backstory: There are many things that can be said about Zhi Gou. Some say that he traveled the world and learned the fine things in life. Some say that he was a former adventurer who slayed a powerful cosmic entity. The most popular prevailing theory though is that he was a former champion of Teda Changshi.

Zhi Gou does, in fact, bear resemblance to a young martial artist from forty years ago. This prodigy of the fist won the tournament with flying colors that year and ruled peaceably for some time. However, without a clan, effective rule was difficult, and many enemies sought to undo him. However, Zhi Gou couldn’t have been that man… that figure was assassinated halfway through his reign.

What is certain is that Zhi Gou has owned a quaint yet popular tavern located in the business district of Teda Changshi. He has seen many faces of would-be marital artists come and go. Yet, he remains ever present, always happy to give advice and offer a drink.
Powers and Abilities: Zhi Gou’s fighting prowess has diminished over the years, but he is by no means a slouch. The few times that Zhi Gou has shown himself to fight to defend his home, he has shown himself to be a master of the bo staff. Not only that, but even unarmed and improvised combat comes naturally to him.

Not only this, but Zhi Gou has an incredible sense of strategy and diplomacy. Many people come to him for advice on the tournament, both personal and practical.

Zhi Gou is also adept at fire magic in certain forms. This includes spewing flames from his mouth after engorging alcohol and even conjuring flames from spirits.