Han Feizi tells how a Chu guard bribed Jin’s Shu Xiang to rescue the king’s brother held in Qin. By threatening to build Huqiu’s ramparts, Jin pressured Qin into releasing the prince, winning generous gold from grateful Chu.
Han Feizi depicts Chu’s victory over Wu. After ten days of rain, Yi Xiang foresaw an incoming Wu raid, prompting Chu to form defenses. When Wu retreated, the advisor urged an immediate strike and helped General Ziqi (Zi Qi) crush the resting foe.
Han Feizi recounts Yue sought Chu’s troops to attack Jin post-Wu’s fall. Chu’s minister spotted Yue’s hidden military depletion; Chu followed Yue’s troops. Forced by worn-out forces, Yue yielded vast land to Chu to avoid combat.
Han Feizi records two Wu envoys marked for sacrificial drum blood by Chu’s general. They reasoned killing them would make Wu tighten defenses and curse Chu’s drums, convincing the commander to spare their lives with sharp diplomatic logic.
Han Feizi records strategist Bai Gui’s advice to Song’s prime minister. To avoid being ousted once the young king comes of age, the minister should invite Chu’s envoys to praise the ruler’s filial fame and secure long-term official power.
Han Feizi tells Zangsunzi saw Chu’s false aid promise. Chu aimed to wear down Qi and Song, keeping troops back.
The Old Man on the River was a man from the state of Chu.
Qu Yuan (c. 340–278 BCE) was a statesman and poet of the Warring States period, hailing from the state of Chu. His given name was Ping, and his courtesy name was Yuan. Born into the Chu aristocracy, he initially enjoyed the deep trust of King Huai of Chu and held key offices such as…