Series & First Appearance
Xiaoshi Cheng hails from the anime series "Tian Guan Ci Fu" (Heaven Official’s Blessing), adapted from the web novel by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu. His character first appears in Chapter 1 of the source material and makes his anime debut in Episode 1. The adaptation is produced by the studio BILIBILI, which is well-known for bringing popular manhua and light novels to the screen.
Profile at a Glance
Xiaoshi Cheng is a 21-year-old protagonist and the manager of Time Photography Studio. Known for his impulsive nature and unrefined exterior, he has a broader mission to save the studio from impending bankruptcy. His signature abilities include photography, basketball, and martial arts, with a unique power that allows him to enter the world inside a photograph and temporarily possess the photographer’s body.
Personality & Motivations
Xiaoshi is characterized by his rough demeanor but possesses a good heart, often acting on impulse rather than careful consideration. He dislikes solitude, math, and rainy weather—showcasing a more vulnerable side to his personality. His motivation primarily revolves around saving his photography studio, which reflects his determination and loyalty. A notable quirk is his penchant for games, which often serves as his method of stress relief. He aims to keep his friends and business afloat while also seeking to create meaningful interactions through photography.
Abilities / Powers
Xiaoshi Cheng boasts a set of impressive skills that reflect his diverse interests. His primary abilities include:
- Photography: This is his main livelihood and the core of his power.
- Superpower: He can enter the world within a photo, allowing him to control the actions of the photographer temporarily. This unique ability has various applications, such as fulfilling client requests and capturing elusive moments.
- Martial Arts: Xiaoshi is proficient in martial arts, which adds depth to his character during confrontations.
- Basketball: An avid player, his skills in basketball often highlight his competitive spirit and teamwork.
However, his powers are not without limitations. The time he can spend within a photograph is finite, and controlling others requires a significant emotional or narrative connection.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Xiaoshi’s character undergoes significant development throughout the series. Early in the narrative, his impulsiveness often leads to chaotic situations, affecting both his team and the studio. A pivotal moment occurs when he realizes the importance of collaboration with his ally, Lu Guang, who helps him refine his abilities. Together, they navigate through various client requests that confront them with moral dilemmas and emotional challenges, enhancing Xiaoshi’s understanding of responsibility and the impact of his powers on others.
As the story progresses, Xiaoshi learns to trust his instincts while balancing his spontaneous nature with a sense of responsibility. His budding relationship with Lu Guang serves to ground him, revealing a deeper side to his character and motivating him to be more thoughtful in his actions.
Notable Relationships
Significant relationships define Xiaoshi Cheng’s character arc:
- Lu Guang: His primary ally and partner at Time Photography Studio, Lu Guang balances Xiaoshi’s impulsiveness with his analytical approach, making their relationship a focal point of the series.
- Clients: Their interactions with various clients allow Xiaoshi to explore different facets of human emotion and connection, shaping his growth throughout the story.
- Family Ties: Although less is known about his family background, the narrative hints at his desire for supportive relationships, contrasting his fear of loneliness.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable scene occurs in Chapter 10, where Xiaoshi first uses his power to enter a photograph. The moment encapsulates his initial thrill and fascination, revealing the potential for both creativity and chaos. His reflection during this scene—“Every picture tells a story, but what’s the story behind the story?”—captures his dual role as an artist and a seeker of deeper truths.
Another poignant moment happens in Episode 13, where, during a critical basketball match, Xiaoshi’s camaraderie with Lu Guang shines through. He shouts, “We’re in this together!” emphasizing the importance of teamwork and friendship, resonating deeply with fans.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Xiaoshi Cheng has garnered considerable popularity, reflected in approximately 2,478 member favorites on various anime databases. His voice is brought to life in the Japanese version by voice actor Yuuichi Nakamura, known for his expressive performances in multiple series. The character embodies a blend of contemporary and traditional themes, appealing to a wide demographic and sparking discussions around mental health, relationships, and the nature of art itself. He continues to resonate with fans, both for his depth and the relatability of his challenges.
With rich personality traits and evolving storylines, Xiaoshi Cheng remains a memorable character within the rich tapestry of "Tian Guan Ci Fu," making him an essential figure for fans and scholars of anime alike.