| NAME | |
|---|---|
| Chinese Name | 薛永, 薛永, Xuē Yǒng |
| Nickname | 84 - Earthly Nether Star - 地幽星 (Dìyōu Xīng) - Địa U Tinh; Sick Big Insect (病大蟲, Bìngdàchóng, Bệnh Đại Trùng) |
| Other name | Tiết Vĩnh |
| INFORMATION | |
| Birth Place | Xiezhou (解州; Giải Châu) |
| Death Reason | Fell ill and passed away from epidemic in Hangzhou (杭州, Hángzhōu, Hàng Châu) during the Fang La (方腊, Fāng Là, Phương Lạp) campaign |
| FAMILY | |
| Father | |
| CAREER | |
| Allegiance | Liangshan Marsh |
| Battles | Battle of Gaotang, Campaign against the Liao Dynasty, Campaign against Tian Hu, Campaign against Wang Qing, Campaign against Fang La |
Life and Background of Xue Yong
Xue Yong, nicknamed “Sick Tiger,” stands as a compelling martial figure in the classic Chinese novel Water Margin. Set against the turbulent backdrop of the Northern Song Dynasty, his character represents the wandering warriors who survived through street performances and traditional medicine sales. Although his moniker might deceptively imply physical weakness, it actually signifies the brooding, quiet menace of an apex predator waiting to unleash devastating force.
Martial Journey and the Liangshan Cause
Earning his living across various provinces with dynamic staff displays and herbal plasters, Xue Yong arrives in Jieyang Town, where his exceptional prowess attracts the attention of Song Jiang. When a local bully named Mu Chun attempts to intimidate him and forbid townspeople from tipping him, an intense street fight ensues. The wanderer easily bests his challenger with swift footwork and counterattacks, proving his authentic lineage as the descendant of elite imperial military instructors.
After participating in the high-stakes rescue at Jiangzhou, he officially joins the 108 Stars of Destiny at Mount Liang. Designated as the 84th chieftain and aligned with the Earth Concealment Star, he serves diligently as an infantry commander. Throughout subsequent imperial pacification campaigns against the Liao state and southern rebels, he demonstrates unwavering loyalty. His journey reaches a tragic yet heroic climax during the Fang La campaign at the Battle of Muzhou, cementing his place in classical folklore.
Historical and Literary Timeline
The Encounter at Jieyang
He performs martial arts in the streets of Jieyang Town, defeats the bully Mu Chun, and forms an unbreakable bond of loyalty with Song Jiang.
Grand Assembly of Heroes
During the ranking ceremony at the Hall of Loyalty and Justice, he is recognized as the 84th hero, taking up command among the infantry vanguard.
The Fall at Muzhou
He meets an honorable end on the battlefield during the brutal campaign to suppress Fang La’s rebellion.
Key Relationships
- Song Jiang: His benefactor and visionary leader who recognized his hidden talent and welcomed him into the brotherhood.
- Mu Chun: An initial regional rival who later became a fellow comrade-in-arms under the Liangshan banner.
- Xue Ba: His grandfather, a distinguished military martial instructor whose ancestral teachings shaped his mastery of weaponry.
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