| NAME | |
|---|---|
| Chinese Name | 朱富, 朱富, Zhū Fù |
| Nickname | 93 - Earthly Concealed Star - 地藏星 (Dìzàng Xīng) - Địa Tàng Tinh; Smiling Tiger (笑面虎, Xiàomiànhǔ, Tiếu Diện Hổ) |
| Other name | Chu Phú |
| INFORMATION | |
| Birth Place | Yizhou (沂州; Nghi Châu) |
| Death Reason | Survived the war, became a merchant in Muzhou (睦州, Mùzhōu, Mục Châu), and lived to old age |
| FAMILY | |
| Relatives | |
| CAREER | |
| Allegiance | Liangshan Marsh |
| Battles | Campaign against Fang La |
Biography of Zhu Fu: The Smiling Tiger
Zhu Fu is a notable fictional hero from the monumental Chinese classic Water Margin. Originating from Yishui County within Shandong province, he initially lived as a quiet innkeeper and brewer. Despite his pleasant appearance and polite speech, he possessed great shrewdness, earning the evocative moniker “Smiling Tiger” (笑面虎). Ranked 93rd among the 108 Liangshan heroes and holding the Earth Hidden Star (地藏星), his calm intellect allowed him to resolve perilous predicaments without resorting to brute force.
His defining moment occurs when the impetuous hero Li Kui is captured by government forces in Yishui. Teaming up with his martial arts teacher Li Yun and his brother Zhu Gui, he orchestrates a brilliant rescue by intoxicating the local constabulary with potent drugged wine. After successfully liberating his comrade, he persuaded Li Yun to defect, and they journeyed together to seek refuge at the marshland fortress.
Logistical and Intelligence Role in the Northern Song Era
Operating during the tumultuous late Northern Song Dynasty, the Liangshan insurgency depended heavily on tradecraft and discreet outposts. Upon formal induction, Zhu Fu was assigned to manage the western reconnaissance tavern alongside other specialists. In this capacity, he intercepted enemy communications, investigated incoming travelers, and provided covert logistical support for the band’s campaigns. Furthermore, his administrative talents made him instrumental in overseeing grand banquets, food distribution, and supply management for thousands of rebel warriors.
Zhu Fu — Literary Timeline
The Rescue of Li Kui
Using cunning strategy and drugged liquor, he outwits the local constables to free Li Kui, subsequently convincing his former mentor Li Yun to join the Liangshan brotherhood.
Demise at Muzhou
During the expedition against Fang La, he stays behind in Hangzhou to nurse his ailing brother Zhu Gui. Sadly, both brothers contract a deadly epidemic and pass away at Muzhou.
Key Relationships and Allegiances
- Zhu Gui: His elder brother who served as an intelligence operative and recruited him into the Liangshan brotherhood.
- Li Yun: His martial arts instructor whom he cleverly convinced to join the outlaws following the tavern rescue.
- Li Kui: The fierce warrior rescued by his sharp mind, establishing a lasting bond of camaraderie.
- Song Jiang: The grand leader of the marshland rebels, whom he served faithfully through multiple military campaigns.
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