Lin Xiaojiu is the primary protagonist of the story. In his past life he was a 28-year-old national first-class chef from modern China. He dies in a plane crash and is reborn into the body of a 17-year-old ge'er of the same name in an unfamiliar dynasty. He possesses the original Lin Xiaojiu's memories and quickly adapts. He is hardworking, optimistic, and pragmatic. Using his culinary skills, he starts a small food business by first preparing braised dishes and lunch boxes to earn a living. He takes care of Shen Lian, his nominal husband, by hiring a doctor and preparing medicine. He also shows kindness to his neighbor Aunt Wang Er by offering free food for her sick grandson. His cheerful personality and determination to succeed despite poverty make him the central figure in the narrative. He is also cunning in business matters, aware of the value of the items he pawns and the importance of building goodwill with the neighbors.
