Da Yi is a mortal man living in the Era of Emperor Yao, a farmer who works the land under the ten suns. He has a speech difficulty, speaking unclearly, and appears simple and kind. He finds Du Yu collapsed at the edge of his village and offers him water and shelter, despite the severe drought. He is married to the beautiful Heng'e. He is called "Yi" by himself and others, but later Du Yu learns that he is the legendary figure expected to shoot down nine suns, though Da Yi is completely unaware of any destiny. He is skeptical when Du Yu mentions shooting down the suns, thinking Du Yu is either an immortal or a madman. He represents the unpreparedness of the legend; without immortal guidance, he remains an ordinary man. His character embodies the central problem of the legend deviation.
