In the world of the Three Kingdoms, alongside deep strategies and life-changing battles, the image of heroic steeds always occupies a special place. A good horse is not just a means of transport but also a “comrade” that determines the survival of generals in the line between life and death.
Below are four legendary steeds that have left the most profound mark in history and literature.
Dich Lu – The “Master Slayer” Turned Savior
Dich Lu is famous for its unique appearance: white eye rings and a white spot on its head. According to ancient beliefs, this is a “master-slaying” horse, bringing misfortune to its rider. In fact, its first owner, Zhang Yu, died on the battlefield, further fueling the terrifying rumors.
However, the bond between Dich Lu and Liu Bei created a legendary tale: “Dich Lu Jumps the Dan Khê Stream”. When pursued by Tai Mao to the edge of a wide stream, Liu Bei shouted: “Dich Lu! Dich Lu! Will you slay me today?” Understanding his heart, the horse suddenly leaped across to the other bank, saving Liu Bei from death in the nick of time, shattering the prejudices against a horse of ill omen.
O Van Dat Tuyet – Fierce as the Dark Clouds
Closely associated with the hot-tempered and upright image of “The Three Heroes” Zhang Fei is the horse O Van Dat Tuyet. This is a rare breed with an extremely impressive appearance: its entire body is jet black like the night, but its four legs are pure white like snow, creating a strong contrast and majesty on the battlefield.
The tale associated with the duo Zhang Fei – O Van Dat Tuyet is their dominance at Chang Ban Bridge. Zhang Fei’s thunderous roar, combined with the fierce appearance of the jet-black steed, terrified tens of thousands of Cao’s troops. The endurance and muscular strength of O Van Dat Tuyet is considered the perfect complement to its owner’s explosive and fearless fighting style.
Chieu Da Ngoc Su Tu – The Majestic White of “The Martial God of the Three Kingdoms” Zhao Zilong
Closely associated with the image of “The Ever-Victorious General” Zhao Zilong is the pure white horse named Da Chieu Ngoc Su Tu. Its remarkable feature is that its entire body is devoid of any blemish, white as snow and capable of shining in the dark, resembling a magnificent jade lion.
Its most glorious achievement is during the Chang Ban battle. Amidst the countless Cao soldiers, Da Chieu Ngoc Su Tu fought alongside Zhao Zilong, protecting the young lord A Dau. There is a legend that when Zhao Zilong fell into a deep pit dug by the enemy, the extraordinary strength of this horse helped him leap up from the ground, creating a miraculous escape that entered the annals of history.
Xich Tho – The Champion Steed of the Three Kingdoms
When mentioning rare horses of the Three Kingdoms era, one cannot forget Xich Tho – “the steed among steeds”. Described with fiery red fur, able to travel a thousand miles a day, climbing mountains and crossing rivers as if walking on flat ground, Xich Tho is a symbol of power and valor. The people of that time still passed down the saying: “Among men, there is Lu Bu; among horses, there is Xich Tho” to affirm its unique status.
After Lu Bu’s death, Xich Tho came into the hands of Cao Cao and was later given to Guan Yu. The most touching story about this horse is its absolute loyalty. In the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, after Guan Yu’s sacrifice, Xich Tho was captured by the Eastern Wu army but refused to eat, eventually dying to follow its master. This image elevated Xich Tho from a rare pet to a symbol of loyalty and righteousness.