Fang Bi

Fang Bi served as a Palace-Guard General under King Zhou of Shang and, together with his brother Fang Xiang, was a giant several zhang tall. When King Zhou sought to execute his two sons, Princes Yin Jiao and Yin Hong, Fang Bi and Fang Xiang—moved by compassion—rebelled against the court in Zhaoge and escorted the princes into exile. Later, they entrusted the princes to the care of ministers such as Chao Tian before wandering as fugitives; Fang Bi was subsequently persuaded by Huang Feihu to join the Western Qi forces. Fang Bi perished during the Battle of Mianchi and other calamitous campaigns. During the Investiture of the Gods, both brothers were enfeoffed as deities. In folk tradition, owing to their immense stature, martial ferocity, and steadfast loyalty in protecting the young and resisting tyranny, they are venerated as Divine Pioneers who lead funeral processions and dispel evil spirits—often appearing at the head of ceremonial processions alongside Fang Xiang.