Zhu Tao
Liu Ji himself visited the capital Chang'an in his youth and passed the imperial examinations. In 785, after Zhu Tao died, Liu Peng succeeded him. Liu Ji served as the prefect of Mo Prefecture (莫州, in modern Cangzhou, Hebei) under his father. Later in 785, when Liu Peng grew ill, Liu Yong was by Liu Peng's side, and he quickly summoned Liu Ji back from Mo Prefecture and supported him to succeed their father. The emperor at that time, Emperor Suzong's grandson Emperor Dezong, thus made Liu Ji acting military governor. Liu Peng died soon thereafter, and Liu Ji succeeded him.