Qin Yilu

Qin Yilu (秦宜祿) was a minor historical figure during the late Eastern Han Dynasty and Three Kingdoms period of Chinese history. He served under Lü Bu. He is primarily remembered for his wife, Lady Du (杜氏), who was renowned for her beauty.

According to historical accounts, Cao Cao besieged Lü Bu in Xia Pi (下邳). During the siege, Lady Du attracted the attention of both Cao Cao and Guan Yu. Guan Yu repeatedly requested Cao Cao to allow him to marry Lady Du after the city fell. Cao Cao initially agreed but, as the siege progressed and he contemplated Guan Yu's persistence, he became suspicious and decided to see Lady Du for himself. Struck by her beauty, Cao Cao took her as a concubine instead.

Qin Yilu initially surrendered to Cao Cao after Xia Pi fell and was appointed to a minor position. However, he reportedly felt resentful. Accounts differ on his ultimate fate. Some sources indicate that Guan Yu, bitter about Cao Cao's actions, eventually killed Qin Yilu. Other sources suggest that Qin Yilu willingly followed Guan Yu but, after hesitation and further contemplation, was slain by Guan Yu for his perceived weakness.

Qin Yilu is primarily remembered for his unfortunate association with Lady Du and the resulting drama involving Cao Cao and Guan Yu. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of possessing something desired by powerful figures. His son, Qin Lang (秦朗), became a trusted advisor to Cao Rui, the second emperor of the Cao Wei state, due to the Cao family's favor toward him.