Water Margin Ruan Xiao Er

Ruan Xiao Er (阮小二), nicknamed the “Tai Sui of the Standing Firm” (立地太歲), is one of the heroic outlaws in Water Margin (Shuihu Zhuan). Alongside his younger brothers, Ruan Xiao Wu and Ruan Xiao Qi, he comes from the waterside community of Shijie Village near Liangshan Marsh. A tough and experienced fisherman, Ruan Xiao Er is skilled in navigating waterways and fighting on the water, making him a valuable member of the Liangshan brotherhood.

As one of the 108 Stars of Destiny, Ruan Xiao Er is ranked among the 36 Heavenly Spirits, embodying the courage and rugged determination of Liangshan’s waterborne warriors. He plays an important role in the plot to seize birthday gifts intended for the Grand Tutor Cai Jing, helping the outlaws resist corrupt officials and join the Liangshan cause. For Water Margin fans, Ruan Xiao Er represents the loyalty, boldness, and fighting spirit of the marsh heroes who challenge injustice together.