Tian Jianxiu (simplified: 田见秀, traditional: 田見秀, pinyin: Tián Jiànxiù, jyutping: tin4 gin3 sau3) was a member of Shanzong (山宗 — Shānzōng), a secret organisation formed by Yuan Chonghuan’s (袁崇焕) former subordinates who rescued and raised Yuan Chengzhi (袁承志) in Sword Stained with Royal Blood.
Biography
Tian Jianxiu was one of Yuan Chonghuan’s former subordinates who remained loyal to the general after his wrongful execution by the Chongzhen Emperor in 1630. Following Yuan Chonghuan’s death, Tian Jianxiu joined other loyal followers to form Shanzong, a secret organisation dedicated to avenging Yuan Chonghuan’s death and protecting his son.
As a member of Shanzong, Tian Jianxiu participated in rescuing the seven-year-old Yuan Chengzhi after his father’s execution. The members of Shanzong took the young boy under their care and raised him, teaching him to read, write, and establish a foundation in martial arts, all with the goal of preparing him to avenge his father.
Tian Jianxiu and the other Shanzong members continued to support Yuan Chengzhi throughout his life, providing guidance and assistance in his various operations against the corrupt Ming government.
Relationships
Allies
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Yuan Chonghuan — Tian Jianxiu’s former commander, whom he remained loyal to after the general’s wrongful execution.
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Yuan Chengzhi — The son of Yuan Chonghuan, whom Tian Jianxiu and other Shanzong members rescued and raised.
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Other Shanzong members — Tian Jianxiu worked alongside other members of Shanzong, including Ying Song, Luo Daqian, Zhu Anguo, Sun Zhongshou, and Cui Qiushan.
Legacy
Tian Jianxiu’s character represented the loyalty and dedication of Yuan Chonghuan’s former subordinates, who continued to serve their commander’s memory by protecting and raising his son. His participation in Shanzong demonstrated the strength of loyalty and the importance of honouring those who had been wrongfully treated, even at great personal risk.