Contents
Biography & Historical Record
Li Li (李立, Lý Lập) is a fictional character in the classic Chinese novel Water Margin (Shui Hu Zhuan, Thủy Hử). He is one of the 108 Stars of Destiny, ranking as the 96th member and holding the title of the Earth Slave Star (Địa Nô Tinh). Originally an innkeeper situated at the foot of Jieyang Ridge, he operated a notorious establishment that served as a front for robbery and murder. Li Li was infamous for drugging weary travelers with ‘Meng-Po’ soup (a potent sedative) to steal their belongings and process their bodies into meat buns.
Role in Romance of the Three Kingdoms
His role is confined to the universe of the Water Margin; he does not appear in the Three Kingdoms period. In the narrative, he is instrumental in the recruitment of Song Jiang (宋江, Tống Giang) to the Liangshan cause.
Li Li — Historical & Literary Timeline
Chapter 37
The Encounter at Jieyang Ridge
Li Li attempts to drug Song Jiang (宋江, Tống Giang) and Li Jun (李俊, Lý Tuấn), but is prevented by the timely intervention of Li Jun, who recognizes the traveler.
Chapter 119
Death at Qiantang
During the final campaign against the rebel Fang La (方臘, Phương Lạp), Li Li is severely wounded in the battle at Qingxi and subsequently drowns while trying to cross the Qiantang River.
Key Relationships
- Liangshan Marsh Allies
- Li Jun (李俊, Lý Tuấn): The individual who saved Li Li from committing a grave error against Song Jiang and later recruited him to join the outlaws of Liangshan.
- Song Jiang (宋江, Tống Giang): The leader of the Liangshan heroes whom Li Li served with loyalty after his induction into the brotherhood.
