Murong Chao, known as Zuming, is the son of Murong De, the King of Beihai. After Fu Jian captured the city of Ye, he made Murong De the Prefect of Guangwu. Several years later, Murong De resigned from his position and moved to Zhangye. When Murong De went on a campaign to the south, he left behind a golden sword as a token and never returned. When Murong Chui raised his banner in Shandong, Fu Chang captured Murong De and his sons and had them executed. Murong De's elderly mother, Lady Gongsun, managed to escape, while his wife, Lady Duan, who was still pregnant at the time, was imprisoned. The jailer, Huyan Ping, a former subordinate of Murong De, who had previously been pardoned for a serious crime, secretly smuggled Lady Gongsun and Lady Duan to the Qiang region, where Murong Chao came into the world.
When Murong Chao was ten years old, his grandma Gongsun passed away. Before her death, she handed him this golden sword and said, "If the world is at peace and you can return to the east, then return this sword to your uncle." Huyan Ping then took Murong Chao and his mother to Lu Guang for help. Later, Lu Long surrendered to Yao Xing, and Murong Chao moved to Chang'an with the people of Liangzhou. Murong Chao's mother said to him, "We survived thanks to the Huyan family's help. Although Huyan Ping has passed away, I still want you to marry his daughter to show our gratitude." So Murong Chao married Huyan Ping's daughter. Murong Chao knew his uncles were all in the east and feared being captured by Yao Xing, so he pretended to be crazy and started begging on the streets. The people of Chang'an looked down their noses at him; only Yao Shao felt that he was different and advised Yao Xing to give him an official position. Yao Xing summoned Murong Chao for a conversation, but Murong Chao was very cautious and said nothing. Yao Xing took a disliking to him and remarked to Yao Shao, "There's a saying: 'Just because someone is good-looking doesn't mean they're smart,' he's just talking nonsense!" So, Murong Chao went about his business freely, with no one paying him any mind.
Later, Murong De sent someone to pick him up, and Murong Chao left without informing his mother and wife. When he arrived in Guanggu, he presented the golden dagger to Murong De and detailed the instructions his grandmother gave him before she passed away. Murong De held him and wept uncontrollably. Murong Chao was eight feet tall, with a nine-foot waist, handsome and elegant. Murong De held him in high regard, named him "Chao," appointed him as an Attendant, General of the Cavalry, and Colonel of the Imperial Guard, granting him the authority to establish his own household and appoint officials. Murong De had no sons and wanted to appoint Murong Chao as his heir, so he had a mansion built for him inside Wanchun Gate and visited him every day. Murong Chao also understood Murong De's intentions, served faithfully at home, and was humble and courteous when going out, earning him praise from all quarters. Before long, Murong Chao was appointed as the Crown Prince.
It is said that Helian Bobo died, and his son Helian Chao seized the throne and proclaimed himself emperor in the first year of Yixi, issuing a general amnesty and renaming the era Taishang. He bestowed the title of Empress Dowager on Bobo's wife, Lady Duan. Then, he promoted Murong Zhong to be the Commander-in-Chief of the national army and the Recorder of the Imperial Secretariat; Murong Fa was appointed as the Grand General of Southern Conquest, overseeing the armies of Xuzhou, Yanzhou, Yangzhou, and Nanyanzhou; Murong Zhen was promoted to be the Chief of the Imperial Secretariat and the Prefect of the Masters of Writing; Fu was appointed as the Grand Commandant; Ju Zhong was appointed as the Minister of Works; Pan Cong was appointed as the Grand Master of Splendid Happiness; Feng Song was appointed as the Deputy Director of the Left in the Imperial Secretariat; and others received their respective honors. Later, he appointed Murong Zhong as the Governor of Qingzhou, Duan Hong as the Inspector of Xuzhou, Gong Sun Wulou as the General of Military Guards, also serving as the Colonel of the Tuns, and participating in court affairs.
Feng Fu said to Helian Chao, "I’ve heard that important officials shouldn’t be assigned to remote areas, and those with average abilities shouldn’t remain at the heart of the court. Murong Zhong is a key pillar of the nation and a vital support for the state; Duan Hong is an imperial relative, well-respected, and should be involved in core decision-making, not sent off to guard remote areas. Now Murong Zhong and the others have been sent to the border, while Gongsun Wulou is assisting you in the court. This really makes me uneasy!" Helian Chao, newly on the throne, was wary of the power held by Murong Zhong and the others, so he asked for Gongsun Wulou's opinion. Gongsun Wulou was eager to seize control of the court and did not want Murong Zhong and the others to stay, so he kept badmouthing them to Helian Chao. But in the end, Feng Fu's advice was ignored. Murong Zhong and Duan Hong were quite unhappy about it, muttering to each other, "I’m worried this yellow dog skin will end up patching the fox fur coat!" When Gongsun Wulou caught wind of this, their rift only grew.
Initially, Helian Chao set out from Chang'an to Liangfu. At that time, Murong Fa was serving as the Inspector of Yanzhou, and when Southern General's Assistant Yue Shou returned, he said to Murong Fa, "I have met the Prince of Beihai (referring to Helian Chao) before. He is smart, dignified, and impressive in presence. This made me see just how many talented people there are in the royal family, just like how a jade forest is full of treasures." Murong Fa replied, "In the past, Cheng Fang Su falsely claimed to be the Crown Prince, and people could not distinguish between truth and falsehood. Is Helian Chao also a royal?" Helian Chao heard this and was furious, his anger clearly showing on his face. Murong Fa was also angered and sent Yue Shou to live in an outside mansion, which created a lasting grudge between them. After Helian Bobo's death, Murong Fa did not attend the funeral, so Helian Chao sent messengers to scold him. Murong Fa was constantly worried about trouble, so he conspired with Murong Zhong, Duan Hong, and others to rebel. When Helian Chao found out about this, he sent troops to deal with them. Murong Zhong pretended to be ill and did not go, so Helian Chao arrested his associates: Murong Tong, the Palace Attendant; Murong Gen, the Right Guard; and Duan Feng, the Cavalry Commandant, killing them all. He also had Minister Feng Song executed by being torn apart by chariots outside the east gate. The General of the Western Guard, Feng Rong, managed to escape to Wei.
Chao commanded Murong Zhen to launch an attack on Qingzhou, Murong Yu to attack Xuzhou, and Murong Ning and Han Fan to assault Liangfu. Murong Yu captured Jucheng, and the Xuzhou governor, Duan Hong, fled to the Wei Kingdom. Feng Rong led a band of bandits to assault Shisai City, where they killed the Grand General of the West, Yu Yu, and the people of Qingzhou and Yanzhou were terrified, filled with anxiety and gossip. Murong Ning plotted to assassinate Han Fan before launching a surprise attack on Guanggu. Han Fan found out and attacked Murong Ning, who then fled to Liangfu. Han Fan absorbed Murong Ning's forces, attacked Liangfu, captured it, and Murong Ning fled to Yao Xing, while Murong Fa also fled and went to the Wei Kingdom. Murong Zhen seized Qingzhou, where Zhong Shi murdered his wife and children. Murong Zhen escaped via a tunnel and rode alone on horseback to Yao Xing. At that time, Chao was utterly neglecting state affairs, only enjoying hunting and playing, causing suffering to the people. His advisor, Han Zhuo, earnestly urged him to change his ways, but Chao turned a deaf ear. Chao also intended to reinstate corporal punishment and establish a nine-rank peerage system, issuing a proclamation throughout the realm that stated:
Ah, the calamities surrounding the Yangjiu are endless; the Yongkang era was indeed fraught with disasters! Ever since the fall of the Northern Capital, the laws and regulations have all been destroyed, not a single one remains. Governing the realm is the fundamental task; if moral persuasion fails, then we must resort to criminal law. Even great sages like Yu Shun had Jiu Yao draft the criminal laws, which shows that punishment is unavoidable! In the early days of Emperor Jixing's reign, the nation was newly established and embroiled in constant warfare; there was no time to revise laws and regulations. As for me, lacking in virtue and having inherited the throne, I governed the country improperly, resulting in chaos in the court and even wars, while neglecting laws and rituals. Now that the realm is at peace, it is time to reform the laws. Shangshu, quickly summon the officials and ministers for a discussion! Those disloyal and unfilial scoundrels, like Feng Song, cannot be satisfied even with beheading; they should face cruel punishments such as boiling and flaying, and these should be codified as capital offenses.
Corporal punishment is a system left by the ancient sages, an unchangeable code of law. Although Emperor Wen of Han attempted reforms, he struggled to manage their severity. Nowadays, more and more people are committing crimes, and more and more people are being executed. Corporal punishment has proven effective in educating the populace, and the punishment is severe. During the reigns of Emperor Guangwu and Emperor Jianwu, our ancestors contemplated reinstating corporal punishment, but unfortunately they passed away before they could do so. You should have officials above the rank of Doctor consult the ancient texts, "Lv Xing," as well as the laws of the Han, Wei, and Jin dynasties, make modifications and additions, and formulate a new set of laws. There are approximately three thousand forms of punishment associated with the Five Punishments, but the gravest offense remains unfiliality. Confucius said, "Without being a sage, one cannot establish laws; without being filial, one cannot have family affection. This is the root of disorder in the world!" The brutal tortures of dismemberment and boiling, although not among the Five Punishments, have existed since ancient times. Qu Mi was subjected to dismemberment, recorded in the "Spring and Autumn Annals"; Duke Ai was boiled to death, also happening in ancient times. During Emperor Shizong's reign in the Qi state, he found it difficult to find peace due to concerns about improper punishments. For rulers, punishments are as vital as one's left and right hands. Therefore, Confucius said, "If punishments are not fair, people will have no one to rely on." So Xiao He was ennobled for establishing laws, and Shusun Tong was ennobled for establishing rituals. Establishing achievements and systems has been crucial throughout history. You should discuss thoroughly, make additions and modifications, and formulate a set of laws suitable for our era. The Zhou dynasty and the Han dynasty both had the system of tribute students, while the Wei dynasty established the Nine Ranks of Officials system. You should also deliberate on which of these two systems is superior. The ministers had differing opinions, so the issue was set aside for the time being. Murong Chao's mother and wife had been detained by Yao Xing in Chang'an for some time. Yao Xing forced Murong Chao to declare himself a vassal and demanded a hefty ransom, threatening to attack Wukou and kill a thousand people if he refused to comply. Upon receiving the letter, Murong Chao promptly convened his ministers to discuss countermeasures.
Left Supervisor Duan Hui said, "Back in the day when King Huai of Chu was imprisoned, Emperor Gaozu Liu Bang did not bow down. Now Your Majesty has inherited the ancestral legacy; you cannot lower the dignity of the emperor because of personal matters! Furthermore, those musicians from the Taile music troupe are just actors; we cannot yield to them. What if they tarnish our customs and traditions? I suggest we directly attack Wu's borders and kill them all!"
Minister Zhang Hua, however, said, "If we go to attack Wu's borders, we will surely offend them, and they will come to attack us as well. The consequences of a war between our two countries would be dire, and there will be no benefit to the country. Back in the day, Sun Quan submitted to Wei for the sake of the people's lives; Hui Shi abandoned his aspirations for the sake of his son's life and honored the state of Qi. Your Majesty, for your mother's sake, you are now in turmoil, so why not temporarily set aside your pride and show filial piety? This is called weighing the benefits and drawbacks, a method used by emperors throughout history. Han Fan and Yao Xing were both colleagues of the Crown Prince of Qin, and they are eloquent and persuasive. Sending Han Fan to negotiate with Yao Xing, lowering the national status and asking for the release of the prisoners. Although this means temporarily submitting to another, it will preserve the country and enhance its reputation globally."
Murong Chao, upon hearing this, happily said, "Minister Zhang really speaks to my heart!" So he sent Han Fan to negotiate with Yao Xing in Chang'an. When Han Fan arrived in Chang'an, Yao Xing asked him, "When Feng Kai came, the King of Yan and I sat on equal footing, but you are so humble. Is this in accordance with the etiquette of 'small states serving large states'? Or is it to show filial piety to your mother?"
Han Fan replied, "During the Zhou Dynasty, noble titles were divided into five ranks, with different levels for dukes and marquises, hence the etiquette of great and small states. Your Majesty, you are thriving in the Western Qin, restoring the ancestral legacy, while our emperor is inheriting the ancestral will, establishing the Eastern Qi, and the country is strong and prosperous, proclaiming himself emperor. We come to you in friendship, with a humble attitude. If we are too aggressive, it could harm our relationship, just like the alliance between the Wu and Jin states or the territorial disputes between Teng and Xue states, resulting in mutual harm. This would damage the reputation of your Western Qin and our Yan state, which concerns me greatly."
Yao Xing became angry upon hearing this, "Are you saying that discussing the etiquette of small and large states is meaningless?" Han Fan replied, "Although it is about the etiquette of small and large states, it is also because our emperor is filial to his mother, surpassing Emperor Shun's devotion to Empress Huang, hoping Your Majesty can understand his filial piety and show mercy by releasing the prisoners."
Yao Xing said, "I haven't seen Jia Yi for a long time. I thought I was better than him, but now I see I'm not!" Yao Xing then took on the demeanor of an old friend, chatted with Han Fan, and said, "I have met the King of Yan; he looks dignified, but he still has a long way to go when it comes to eloquence." Han Fan replied, "Great wisdom appears foolish; that's the nature of sages. Besides, you are currently keeping your talents under wraps. If you shine as bright as the sun and moon, how can you accomplish anything significant?" Yao Xing laughed heartily, "You are truly a smooth talker!"
Han Fan seized the opportunity to continue persuading Yao Xing, who was quite pleased and rewarded him with a thousand gold coins, promising to send back Murong Chao's mother and wife. At that moment, Murong Ning ran from Liangfu to Yao Xing and said, "The King of Yan's submission is not sincere at all; he is only doing it for his mother. Ancient emperors would raise troops to demand hostages; how can we just hand his mother back to him? If we give his mother back to him, he definitely won't submit to you again. We should first have him hand over the musicians, and then return his mother to him."
Yao Xing changed his mind after listening to Murong Ning's words and sent envoys to negotiate with Murong Chao. Murong Chao sent Zhang Hua and Zong Zhengyuan to Chang'an, sending Yao Xing one hundred and twenty court musicians. Yao Xing was very happy and hosted a banquet for Zhang Hua. After three rounds of toasts, music filled the air, and Yao Xing's chamberlain Yin Ya said to Zhang Hua, "When the Yin dynasty was about to perish, the musicians fled to the Zhou dynasty; now the Western Qin state is strong, and musicians from Yan state also come to pay tribute. The signs of prosperity and decline are all around us!" Zhang Hua said, "Throughout history, different emperors have their own governing philosophies, and the effectiveness of strategies often becomes clear only after they bear fruit. That's why Laozi said, 'To obtain something, one must first give something.' Now that the envoy from Western Qin has arrived and the envoy from Yan state has returned, the signs of fortune and misfortune are present!" Yao Xing angrily said, "In the past, the states of Qi and Chu argued endlessly and eventually went to war. How dare you, a mere official from a small state, challenge the ministers of the court!" Zhang Hua humbly said, "I was sent on a mission to establish friendly relations with your country. Since your country has allowed officials from a small state to come to court, insulting our nation's honor, how can I not do my best to reciprocate!" Yao Xing was quite pleased and sent Murong Chao's mother and wife back.
In the year 407 AD, Liu Yu posthumously honored his father with the title of Emperor Mu, appointed his mother Duan as Empress Dowager, and his wife Hu Yan as Empress. During a sacrificial ceremony at the southern outskirts, as he was about to ascend the altar, a large, rat-like beast, entirely red and roughly the size of a horse, suddenly appeared next to the round mound. After a while, the beast disappeared. Immediately after, a huge storm arose, darkening the sky and the earth, causing the sacrificial implements to be blown away. Terrified, Liu Yu discreetly asked the Grand Astrologer Cheng Gong Sui about what was happening. Cheng Gong Sui replied, "Your Majesty, you trust treacherous officials too much, and have killed loyal subjects, and imposed heavy taxes along with harsh labor, which is why this is happening." Frightened, Liu Yu quickly ordered a general amnesty and condemned Gong Sun Wulou and others. However, not long after, he reinstated these individuals to their former positions. That year, an earthquake occurred in Guanggu, the Tianqi River overflowed, well water overflowed, the female waters ran dry, the Yellow River and Ji River froze, but the Mian River did not freeze.
One day, Liu Yu received the courtiers' homage in the Dongyang Hall, and upon hearing the music, he felt that the orchestra was performing poorly. Regretting that he had given the musician to Yao Xing, he decided to launch an attack. His general Han Zhuo advised him, "The late emperor only recovered the land of Sanqi because the old capital fell. Even a wise man wouldn’t act rashly if the timing isn’t right. Your Majesty has inherited the foundation of the late emperor; you should keep a low profile and recuperate, waiting for the right time to send troops again. You absolutely cannot provoke enemies in the south and make enemies everywhere!" Liu Yu said, "I have made up my mind, no need for you to say more." So, he sent Hu Gu Ti, Gong Sun Gui, and others to lead the cavalry in an attack on Suyu, captured the Sunping Prefect Liu Qianzai and the Jiyin Prefect Xu Ruan, looted a substantial amount of goods, and captured 2500 men and women, handing them over to the Imperial Music Office for training in singing and dancing.
At that time, Gongsun Wulou served as the Imperial Attendant and Minister, and also held the title of General of the Left Guard, consolidating significant power over court politics. His older brother, Gongsun Gui, was a Champion General and the Duke of Changshan, while his uncle, Gongsun Jue, held the title of General of the Martial Guards and Duke of Xingle. Gongsun Wulou's family and relatives gathered in the court, and no one, whether inside or outside the court, dared to defy him. Liu Yu was rewarded for his achievements in the campaign against Suyu by granting titles of county dukes to Hugu Ti and others. Murong Zhen stepped forward to offer counsel, saying, "I’ve heard that rewards should reflect the scale of one’s achievements, and without achievements, one cannot be appointed as a marquis. Now Gongsun Gui leads troops to fight and harm the people, yet Your Majesty chooses to reward him. Isn’t that a bit inappropriate? Truthful advice is often hard to swallow, and only close relatives will speak frankly. Though my abilities are modest and my status low, I must speak my mind, hoping that Your Majesty will consider it carefully." Liu Yu became angry upon hearing this and dismissed him. Since then, the court ministers fell silent and no longer dared to speak. There was a person named Wang Yan who was a small official in the Ministry of Personnel at that time. Wang Yan was particularly skilled at flattering Wulou, going out of his way to curry favor. As a result, he rose through the ranks quickly, first becoming a Ministerial Clerk, then being appointed as the Prefect of Jinan, and eventually attaining the high rank of Deputy Minister of Personnel. People at the time coined a catchy phrase, saying, "If you want to become a marquis, you’ve got to flatter Wulou!"
This "Five-story figure" does not refer to a tall building, but to a powerful figure who held immense power over the court and society at the time. The specific identity is not explicitly mentioned in historical records, but judging from Wang Yansheng's promotion experience, this "Five-story" was undoubtedly a person of high status and power, capable of elevating a minor official like Shi Yuan to great heights, highlighting their immense influence. Therefore, the saying "To gain a title, serve the Five-story" became a reflection of society back then, showing how easy it was to rise through the ranks by cozying up to the powerful back then. Wang Yansheng's story became a popular topic of discussion for later generations, serving as a reminder for people to stay on the right path and not sacrifice their principles for petty gains.
Gongsun Wulou sent three thousand cavalry to attack Jinan, captured the governor Zhao Yuan and abducted thousands of men and women before making their escape. Liu Yu readied his troops to confront them, while Liu Chao gathered the ministers to strategize against the enemy.
Gongsun Wulou said, "The Wu army is light, quick, and loves to engage in battle. They're fiercely aggressive in the initial charge, and we can't take them on directly. We need to take Daxian Mountain, block their entry, stall their advance, and sap their morale. We can also select two thousand elite cavalry to move south along the coast, cutting off their supply line; and order Duan Hui to lead the army from Yanzhou to advance south from Shandong. This pincer strategy is our best bet. We can also command the local defenders to hold onto strategic positions, burn everything but the essentials, wipe out the crops, and cut off the enemy's supplies. Fortifying our defenses and waiting for the enemy to show weaknesses is a solid plan. Letting the enemy into Daxian Mountain and then fighting them outside the city would be the worst move."
Liu Chao said, "Jingdu has a large population and is wealthy. We can't just evacuate everyone at once. We can't harvest the crops in time. I can't bring myself to destroy the crops just to protect our lives and defend the city. Now we have the advantage of controlling five states, taking advantage of the natural defenses provided by the mountains and rivers, possessing tens of thousands of war chariots, and countless cavalry units. Even if the enemy crosses the Daxian Mountain and reaches the plains, we can still chase them down with our elite cavalry and capture them all." Helailu pleaded with him not to, but Liu Chao did not listen. Helailu withdrew and said to Gongsun Wulou, "The emperor does not listen to our strategies; our doom is near!"
Murong Zhen said, "If we follow the emperor's orders, we must fight using cavalry in the plains. We should go out and confront the enemy; even if we are defeated, we can always fall back. We should not let the enemy enter the Daxian Mountain and get ourselves into a tight spot. In the past, Cheng Anjun did not defend Jingxing Pass and was eventually defeated by Han Xin; Zhuge Zhan did not occupy the crucial Shuma Valley and was eventually captured by Deng Ai. I believe that timing is less important than having the right terrain, so defending the Daxian Mountain is the best strategy." Liu Chao still did not listen. After Murong Zhen left, he said to Han Zhuo, "The emperor cannot destroy the crops and defend the dangerous terrain, nor is he willing to relocate the people to avoid the enemy, just like Liu Zhang did. The country is doomed this year; I am sure to die, and you scholars from the Central Plains will be branded as slaves." Liu Chao was furious when he heard this, and he had Murong Zhen thrown in prison. Then, Liu Chao called up the troops in Juxian and Liangfu, reinforced the city walls, selected soldiers and warhorses, and built up our forces to wait for the enemy.
In the summer, the imperial army was stationed in Dongguan. Murong Chao sent out six generals including Duan Hui and He Lailu, leading fifty thousand soldiers to occupy Linqu. Not long after, the imperial army crossed Xianshan, which made Murong Chao panic. He rushed to Linqu with forty thousand soldiers to join Duan Hui and the others. Murong Chao said to Gongsun Wulou, "We should quickly occupy Chuanyuan. If the Jin army arrives there and has no water to drink, they won't be able to fight." Gongsun Wulou quickly rode to occupy Chuanyuan. However, Liu Yu's vanguard general Meng Longfu had already arrived there, defeating Gongsun Wulou, who then had to retreat.
Liu Yu then sent the consultant Tan Shao to lead elite soldiers to break through Linqu. Terrified, Murong Chao fled on horseback alone to the south of the city in search of Duan Hui. Unfortunately, Duan Hui's army was also defeated, and Liu Yu's army immediately killed Duan Hui. Murong Chao fled back to Guanggu, moved the palace residents to a small city for safety, and sent Secretary Zhang Gang to request help from Yao Xing. Murong Chao pardoned Murong Zhen, promoting him to the position of Minister and Commander-in-Chief of all military forces. Murong Chao then summoned his officials, apologizing to them, "I have inherited my ancestors' legacy, but I have failed to appoint talented individuals and utilize good people. Instead, I have been stubborn and made decisions on my own. Now, it’s too late for regrets! Wise individuals will always display their talents in times of crisis, and loyal ministers will show their integrity in times of danger. You ministers must work together to find ways to overcome our current difficulties."
Murong Zhen continued, "The people's hopes rest solely on you. Your Majesty personally led the army but suffered a defeat. The ministers are all disheartened, and the people's morale is low. We can no longer rely on the situation, both inside and out. I’ve heard that Xiqin is also dealing with internal strife, so they may not have the resources to send troops to rescue us. We need to resolve to fight one more battle for the mandate of heaven. There are still tens of thousands of soldiers who have scattered back to the city. We can gather all the gold, silver, treasures, and palace maids to motivate them to fight again. If the heavens bless us, we can defeat the enemy. If we fail, it's better to die fighting than to starve to death trapped. We can’t just sit back and wait to die!" Situ Murong Hui said, "That's not the way to think. The Jin army is riding high on morale and fierce. What can we possibly do to resist them with defeated generals? Although Xiqin and Houqin are mutually restraining each other, it’s not something to worry about. Moreover, when we’re in trouble, Xiqin will surely come to help us. However, historically, if we don’t send high-ranking officials, we won’t get the heavy reinforcements we need. Zhao sent envoys three times to seek help, but the Chu army did not send troops. When Pingyuan Jun sent an envoy, reinforcements arrived immediately. The Minister of Works, Han Fande, is well-respected in both Yan and Qin, so we should send him to ask for help to get through this tough spot." So, Murong Chao sent Han Fande and Wang Pu to ask Yao Xing for help.
Not long after, Helian Bobo surrounded Guanggu City, sealing off all sides. Someone secretly told Helian Bobo's army, "If we can get Zhang Gang to be the commander of the siege equipment, the city can be captured." This month, Zhang Gang returned from Chang'an and chose to ally with Helian Bobo. Helian Bobo ordered Zhang Gang to shout from atop the city walls, "Bobo has defeated the Qin army; no one is coming to save you!" Murong Chao was furious when he heard this. He picked up a crossbow and shot at Zhang Gang, who then retreated. Zhang Hua, the Right Minister, and Feng Kai, the Minister of the Center, were both captured by Helian Bobo's army. Helian Bobo ordered Zhang Hua and Feng Kai to write a letter to Murong Chao, urging him to surrender quickly. Murong Chao then wrote a letter to Helian Bobo, requesting to become his vassal, with the Great Xian Mountain as the border, and offering a thousand war horses for peace, but Helian Bobo refused the offer.
Reinforcements from Jiangnan arrived one after another. Minister Zhang Jun returned from Chang'an and also decided to surrender to Helian Bobo. He suggested to Helian Bobo, "The reason why the people of Yan are holding out is because they rely on Han Fan outside and hope for assistance from Qin. Han Fan's reputation is currently high, and he has a good relationship with Yao Xing. If Bobo defeats the Yan forces, Qin will definitely come to Yan's aid. We should secretly write to Han Fan, enticing him with promises of great rewards. Once Han Fan arrives, the people of Yan will lose hope and naturally surrender." Helian Bobo accepted his suggestion, appointed Han Fan as a Cavalry Attendant, and wrote a letter to surrender him. Meanwhile, Yao Xing dispatched his general Yao Qiang to lead ten thousand infantry and cavalry to accompany Han Fan to Luoyang in search of his general Yao Shao, and they joined forces to come to the rescue. Just as Helian Bobo was achieving victory over the Qin army, Yao Xing summoned Yao Qiang back to Chang'an. Han Fan sighed and remarked, "Is heaven really going to bring about the downfall of Yan?" At that moment, he received a letter from Helian Bobo and then surrendered to him. Helian Bobo said to Han Fan, "If you wish to achieve the same kind of merit as Shen Baoxu, why return empty-handed?" Han Fan replied, "Since my ancestors were favored by the Yan country, I have wept bitterly in the Qin court, hoping to save Yan from the brink of destruction. In this tumultuous time for the Western Zhou, my loyalty has not made a difference; it seems that heaven intends to bring down this declining country to aid Your Excellency. Wise men seize opportunities; how could I not do my utmost?"
The next day, Helián Bóbó inspected the city walls with Han Fan, causing the people to panic and abandon their resolve to defend. Helián Bóbó told Han Fan, "You should go to the city below and inform them of their fate." Han Fan replied, "Although I have received your special favor, I still cannot bring myself to harm the Yan Kingdom." Helián Bóbó admired him and chose not to pressure him. His advisors advised Helián Bóbó to kill Han Fan's family to prevent future betrayals. Mùróng Chāo knew that the situation was hopeless, and his brother Mùróng Dé had always been loyal, so he did not punish Han Fan. That year, Donglai experienced a bloody rain, and the gates of Guanggu wept in the night.
On the first day of the first month of the following year, Shí Chāo ascended to Tiānmén, summoned his ministers to the city wall, slaughtered horses as a reward for the soldiers, and promoted all civil and military officials. Shí Chāo's concubine Lady Wèi followed him to the city wall, saw the formidable army and began to cry as she held Shí Chāo's hand. Hán Zhuó quickly advised, "Your Majesty is currently in a critical situation of life and death. It is a difficult time, yet you allow women to cry like this. How can this be appropriate?" Shí Chāo wiped his eyes and thanked him. His chief secretary Dǒng Ruì advised him to surrender, which infuriated Shí Chāo, leading him to imprison him.
Then, Helailu, Gongsun Wulou, and others dug a tunnel to break out, but failed. The Hejian man Xuan Wen advised Murong Yu: "When the King of Zhao attacked Cao Yi, astrologers believed that the Mian River surrounded the city and was difficult to conquer. They suggested blocking the Wulongkou first, so that the city would eventually fall. Shi Jilong accepted this suggestion, which led to Duan Kang's surrender. Shortly after their surrender, they were attacked again. The old foundation is still there, so we can block it." Murong Yu followed his advice. At this time, most of the men, women, and children in the city were suffering from beriberi (a disease caused by vitamin deficiency). Shi Chao rode a carriage to the city tower, and Shangshu Yueshou said to him: "Heaven and Earth are not benevolent, helping the enemy to do evil. The soldiers are getting sick and dying every day. Defending this beleaguered city without any external support, the timing, location, and support are all against us. If the situation is already lost, like Yao and Shun abdicating, it would be wiser to avert disaster and surrender early with dignity. We should follow the examples of Xu and Zheng, preserving the honor of our ancestors." Shi Chao sighed: "Rise and fall, success and failure, are all determined by fate! I would rather die in battle with my sword than bow down and seek survival!"
Therefore, Zhang Gang constructed a siege tower for Murong Yu, which was covered with wooden planks and leather on the outside, equipped with numerous ingenious mechanisms, which could withstand the stones and arrows fired from the city walls; he also made flying towers, hanging ladders, wooden screens, and other siege weapons, advancing directly towards the city walls. In his fury, Shi Chao hanged and dismembered Zhang Gang's mother. The city’s inhabitants surrendered en masse. Murong Yu launched a multi-pronged assault, causing heavy casualties among the enemy forces, and Yue Shou ultimately opened the city gates to welcome the royal army. Shi Chao fled with several dozen cavalry but was captured by Murong Yu's army. Murong Yu accused him of treason for refusing to surrender, but Shi Chao remained composed, saying nothing, and entrusted his mother to Liu Jingxuan. Ultimately, Shi Chao was escorted to Jiankang City and executed by beheading at the age of twenty-six, having ruled for six years. From Shi Le's usurpation in the fourth year of Long'an to the downfall of Shi Chao the Second, a total of eleven years elapsed, and he was extinguished in the sixth year of Yixi.
Murong Zhong, known by his courtesy name Daoming, was the younger brother of Murong De. He had insight and courage from a young age, displaying neither joy nor anger, intelligent and quick-witted, with clear reasoning and strong expressive skills. Especially in critical moments against the enemy, he demonstrated both wisdom and courage, devising numerous brilliant strategies which Murong De successfully adopted. Thus, Murong De entrusted him with all political matters, big and small, making Murong Zhong his trusted aide, despite not having accomplished any significant feats. Later, Gongsun Wulou, fearing that Murong Zhong's influence would overshadow him, persuaded Murong Chao to kill Murong Zhong. Consequently, Murong Zhong plotted a rebellion. After its failure, he fled to Yao Xing, who appointed him as the Prefect of Shiping and the Marquis of Guiyi.
Feng Fu, courtesy name Chudao, was from Zexian, Bohai. His grandfather Feng Quan was a General of Zhenwei, and his father Feng Fang was Minister of Personnel under Murong Wei. Feng Fu was intelligent, gentle, and generous since childhood, exuding the qualities of a noble gentleman. After Murong Bao usurped the throne, Feng Fu rose through the ranks and eventually became the Minister of Personnel. After Lan Han usurped the throne, Feng Fu fled south to Bi Lunhun, who recommended him for the position of Governor of Bohai. Upon Murong De's arrival at Jucheng, Feng Fu surrendered. Murong De said, "I have pacified Qingzhou, but what truly brings me joy is having you!" Feng Fu often participated in handling political affairs and secret planning. Although he held a high position, he was humble, cautious, receptive to counsel, and embodied the qualities of a great minister. After Murong Chao took the throne, he began to favor treacherous individuals; many actions contradicted the established norms, the laws decayed, and cruelty escalated. Feng Fu offered him counsel repeatedly, but Murong Chao did not listen. Later, at court, Murong Chao asked Feng Fu, "Which king in history can I be compared to?" Feng Fu replied, "A tyrant like Jie and Zhou." Murong Chao was filled with shame and anger. Feng Fu calmly exited without altering his expression. Sikong Ju Zhong, alarmed, said to Feng Fu, "How can you be so strong when speaking to the emperor? You ought to apologize!" Feng Fu said, "I am seventy years old this year, about to die, merely seeking a place to rest." Ultimately, he chose not to apologize. Three years later, Murong Chao passed away, and Feng Fu also died in the same year at the age of seventy-one. He left behind numerous writings that have been preserved through the ages.
Historians commented that Murong De appointed his uncle, Murong Zhong, to important positions. However, during the national crisis, Murong Zhong did not perform well. After Murong De's death, Murong Zhong seized the throne. Is this how people typically behave? Nevertheless, Murong De had a commanding presence and a grand vision for strategy. During the period of national division, he had the means to vie for power, occupying the entire Qingzhou, taking the imperial throne, wielding his sword against Qin and Wei, organizing the army, with the goal of pacifying Jingzhou and Wudi, promoting Confucianism to enhance social customs, and actively seeking out honest advice to motivate himself. From his governance of the country, there are still many commendable aspects.
This guy inherited his ancestors' legacy, hoping to become a dominant ruler. However, he completely ignored the plight of the common people, only indulging in eating, drinking, and playing all day long. He marginalized loyal ministers and generals, favoring villains and sycophants instead. The emperor believed the slander, which drove a wedge between him and his loyal relatives and ministers. The solid legacy his ancestors left quickly fell apart, and the family's prestige plummeted. In the end, he plunged the country into chaos, losing territory, attracting enemies, and eventually both the emperor and ministers were captured, and the imperial ancestral temple became a ruin. Upon careful consideration, this wasn't just bad luck; it was all his own fault.
In conclusion, this guy was nothing more than a villain in hero's clothing, manipulating schemes and deceit to turn his failures into victories. Although he occupied a lot of territory, his reputation was terrible. He took over an illegitimate imperial throne, dragging the country into chaos. The court lost good strategists, and the whole court was in deep sorrow and despair.
"A deceitful villain, turning defeat into victory; occupying Qing soil, infamous in the realm; inheriting a false reign, disrupting the nation's path; the temple has lost its wise counsel, the court mourns in sorrow."
