The Healer's Discarded Apprentice: An Ancient Physician Returns

In today’s medical landscape, where Western medicine reigns supreme, the title of “doctor” seems to belong almost exclusively to its practitioners. The treasures of traditional Chinese medicine, passed down through our land for five thousand years, appear to be in danger of fading from view. With cancer rampant and chronic illnesses of old age, such as coronary heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension, widespread, many conditions have become stubborn ailments that are hard to cure. Even when they are not fatal, they often require lifelong medication, placing a heavy burden on both body and mind.

I have personally watched a family member suffer from coronary heart disease, so I feel this deeply. Having also spent some time in the field of traditional Chinese medicine and gained a glimpse of its depths, I have come to appreciate how profound and time-honored its theories are. Its wisdom of harmony between humanity and nature and balance between yin and yang is a brilliant jewel of Chinese civilization, one that people today urgently need to rediscover and promote. So, despite my limited knowledge, I have written this novel. I do not presume to transform the medical world; I only hope to plant a few seeds of understanding through my modest perspective. May it encourage more discerning readers to learn about the breadth of traditional Chinese medicine, accept its principles and methods, and perhaps even study and pass on its essence.

If that comes to pass, the future will be bright. May our cities and countryside be graced with great doctors like the protagonist of this book, who heal the sick and save lives with compassionate hearts. With benevolence as their guiding light and ancient methods as their vessel, they protect the health of those around them amid the clamor of the world. Only then will we honor the true meaning of a medical tradition passed down through the ages.

This story follows an ancient miracle doctor who tested medicines on himself, died in an accident, and was reborn in the body of a modern-day good-for-nothing. From then on, he uses that worthless body to heal the sick and promote the quintessence of ancient Chinese medicine. Through one case after another, the male lead helps people reclaim their lives and serves up face-slapping to the ignorant people of the modern world.