Zu Junyan, a descendant of the Fan Yang clan, was the son of Zu Xiaozheng, a high-ranking official during the Qi Dynasty. Despite being short in stature and having a stutter, he was talented. In the late years of the Sui Dynasty, he served as a scribe in Dongping County. After Zhai Rang captured Dongping County, it later fell into the hands of Li Mi. Zu Junyan was appointed as a recording officer, responsible for writing military documents and urgent military communications. After Li Mi's defeat, Zu Junyan was killed by Wang Shichong.
Kong Deshao from Kuaiji was a talented individual who achieved the rank of magistrate in Jingcheng. When Dou Jiande declared himself king, he appointed Kong Deshao as the head of the imperial secretariat, responsible for drafting documents and proclamations. After Dou Jiande's defeat, Kong Deshao was executed by beheading.
Liu Bin from Nanyang was a proficient writer who served as a scribe in Xindu County. Dou Jiande appointed him as a secretary in the imperial secretariat. After Dou Jiande's failure, he was appointed as a deputy secretary of the imperial secretariat by Liu Ta. They fled to the Turks together, and their ultimate fate remains unknown.
Historical records say: Emperor Wen of Wei once said, "Most scholars throughout history overlook minor details, and few can establish themselves based on reputation and integrity." This statement rings true! People like Wang Zhou, Yu Chuo, Cui Nao, and Zu Xiaoyi, some are arrogant and indifferent to the affairs of the world, while others, despite their knowledge, end up in low positions, feeling depressed and resentful. They harbor uncertain ambitions, adopt a haughty attitude towards society, and do not care about high-ranking officials. It is evident that those who are eccentric and arrogant are easily marginalized and make enemies, not only Zhao Yi from Hanyang and Ni Heng from Pingyuan. Therefore, they often leave behind regrets and seldom meet a good end. However, their knowledge is extensive, and their writings are magnificent, like a striking bamboo from Denglin or a precious jade from Kunshan. During the unification of the Sui Dynasty, there were only a handful of truly outstanding talents, including the three Zhengxuan brothers, all of whom were exceptionally talented. They were truly rare siblings!
