Chen Zhen (Shu)

Chen Zhen (onyomi: Chin Shin) is a high-ranking adviser of Shu whose efforts to reform ties with Wu earned him praise from Zhuge Liang.

Role in Games
Appearing in the Dynasty Warriors series as a generic officer, Chen Zhen is omitted in Dynasty Warriors 4 only to return in the sixth title.

The Romance of the Three Kingdoms series portrays him as a studious officer with decent stats for politics and charisma. He is commonly seen during the early to middle formation of the Three Kingdoms. Initial installments erroneously list his birth year as 144.

Historical Information
A native of Nanyang, Chen Zhen came to serve Liu Bei after the latter had been made governor of Jing Province. Performing official work in various commanderies, he soon rose up in rank and received numerous positions including grand administrator of Wenshan Commandery.

In 225, he was later sent by Liu Shan as an emissary to Sun Quan who had declared himself Emperor of Wu. His efforts to appease Sun Quan involved documenting an inquiry regarding the various laws of Wu and personally congratulating him for his ascension. As a result, Sun Quan agreed to renew the alliance which served to expand their collective territory while keeping Wei in check.

Chen Zhen's success earned him accolades from Zhuge Liang who once wrote a letter about him to Zhuge Jin saying, "The pure and loyal character of Xiaoqi becomes even better with age. His contribution is most invaluable, in praising both the East and the West, causing the two sides to be joyfully at peace together."

Upon returning back to Shu, Chen Zhen became Marquis of Chengyang Commune. He continued to support Liu Shan until his death and was succeeded by his son Chen Ji.

Romance of the Three Kingdoms
The 26th chapter of the novel introduces Chen Zhen as an attendant of Yuan Shao. While initially loyal to his lord, he willingly helps Liu Bei reunite with Guan Yu by alerting the latter by way of a letter. He is later dispatched by Guo Tu to request aid from Sun Ce, but is forced to leave empty-handed after the incident involving Yu Ji. He also advises Liu Bei to speak with the seer Li Yin after the deaths of his brothers.