Shi Le, whose courtesy name was Shilong, was from Wuxiang, Shangdang, and belonged to the Jie people. His ancestors were descendants of the Qiangqu of the Xiongnu. His grandfather was named Ye Yiyu, and his father was named Zhou Hezhu, also known as Qiyijia; both were minor leaders in the tribe. When Shi Le was born, the room was filled with red light, and a white mist rose straight up into the middle of the courtyard, which was seen as strange by those who witnessed it.
At the age of fourteen, he went to Luoyang with people from his village to do business. He was whistling at the east gate, with an air of confidence. At that time, a renowned minister named Wang Yan saw him and thought he was extraordinary. He said to the people around him, "That Hu child I just saw, his demeanor is unusual; I fear he may bring calamity to the world in the future!" Wang Yan immediately sent someone to catch him, but Shi Le had already run away. As Shi Le grew up, he grew strong, brave, and full of courage, and enjoyed horseback riding and archery. His father Zhou Hezhu was hot-tempered and rude, disliked by the Hu people, so he often let Shi Le manage tribal affairs instead. The Hu people trusted and liked him very much. They lived at the foot of Beiyuan Mountain in Wuxiang, where the vegetation was as resilient as iron cavalry. Ginseng even grew in their courtyard, with lush leaves that resembled human forms. The village elders and fortune-tellers said, "This child is strange, with extraordinary ambitions and demeanor. His future achievements are immeasurable!" They advised the villagers to treat him well.
At that time, many people did not believe in him; only Guo Jing from Wu County and Ning Qu from Yangqu believed in him and frequently offered assistance. Shi Le was deeply grateful to them and worked diligently in the fields to repay their kindness. Sometimes he heard the sound of weapons and told his mother, who replied, "You're just tired; your ears are ringing. It's not an omen of misfortune."
During the Tai'an years, there was a famine in Bingzhou, creating a mess. Shi Le and some other Hu people fled together and eventually returned to find refuge in Ningqu. However, the North Ze Commandant Liu Jian wanted to catch him and sell him, so he tried to hide him to deal with him quietly. Shi Le managed to slip away.
Later, Shi Le quietly surrendered to Commander Li Chuan. On the way, he met Guo Jing, who cried and collapsed to the ground, saying he was hungry and cold. Guo Jing also shed tears and used his belt as collateral to get him some food, and gave him clothes to wear. Shi Le said to Guo Jing, "I am starving to death now; I really can't hold on. The other Hu people are also very hungry. Why don't we try to lure the army from Jizhou here to take the food, then capture them and sell them, so we can all make it?" Guo Jing thought his idea was good.
Just then, General Yan Cui suggested to Ma Teng, the governor of Bingzhou and the East Yung Company, to capture those Hu people and sell them in Shandong to serve in the army. Ma Teng sent Generals Guo Yang and Zhang Long to arrest the leaders of those Hu people and take them to Jizhou. During the arrest, several Hu people were tied together in one chain. Shi Le, who was in his twenties at the time, was one of those captured, and Zhang Long often made fun of him. Because Guo Jing had entrusted Shi Le to Guo Yang and his nephew Guo Shi (Guo Yang being Guo Jing's clan brother), they often spoke up for Shi Le, and if he got hungry or sick on the way, it was also thanks to their help.
Later, Shi Le was sold as a slave to the Chi Ping people. An old man told Shi Le, "There are already four fish-dragon patterns on your forehead. You're definitely gonna be a ruler someday. In the year of Jiaxu, you can plot against Wang Pengzu (meaning usurping the throne)." Shi Le said, "If what you say is true, I won't forget your kindness." After speaking, the old man just vanished.
Shi Le usually worked in the fields and often heard the sound of drums and bugles. He told the other slaves, who also heard it, and he said, "I often heard such sounds at home when I was young." The slaves went back and told Shi Huan, who also thought Shi Le was remarkable in appearance, so he let him go.
I had a good relationship with my neighbor, who was a horse trainer, and often walked with him and Ji Sang from Wei County. Since I had a talent for horse handling, I joined Ji Sang. Once, while working for someone in Wuan, near the river, I was captured by bandits. Just then, a group of deer ran by, and the bandits went after them, so I seized the chance to escape. Shortly after, I encountered an old man who said to me, "Those deer were transformed by me. You will become the master of Zhongzhou in the future, so I saved you." I bowed to him and accepted his prophecy.
Then I started to gather people and horses and recruited Wang Yang, Kui An, Zhi Xiong, Ji Bao, Wu Yu, Liu Ying, Tao Bao, and Lu Ming, forming a small band of outlaws. Later, Guo Ao, Liu Zheng, Liu Bao, Zhang Yipu, Hu Yanmo, Guo Heilue, Zhang Yue, Kong Tu, Zhao Lu, and Zhi Qu six joined us, and the group swelled to eighteen members. We called ourselves the "Eighteen Riders." We even went to royal horse farms like Chilong Yuan and Luji Yuan, stole horses, and robbed silk and jewelry, then gave these things to Ji Sang as a gesture of gratitude.
King Ying of Chengdu was defeated at Dangyin and forced the emperor to flee to Ye Palace. Wang Jun felt that Ying had insulted the emperor, so he sent Xianbei warriors to attack him. Ying was afraid and fled south with Emperor Hui to Luoyang. As a result, the emperor was again forced by Zhang Fang to move to Chang'an. Rebellions erupted across the eastern regions, all under the banner of killing Ying. Hebei King Yong was afraid of the powerful eastern army and wanted to unite with them, so he submitted a petition to the court to depose Ying.
This year, Liu Yuanhai was proclaimed Han King in Liting. Before this, former generals like Gong Shi Fan from Yangping and others proclaimed themselves generals and rebelled in the states of Zhao and Wei, amassing tens of thousands of troops. Gong Shi Fan and Ji Sang led a few hundred horsemen to support them. Ji Sang initially changed Shi Le's name. Gong Shi Fan appointed Shi Le as the vanguard commander, and they attacked Pingchang Gong Mo in Ye City together. Gong Mo sent General Feng Song to confront them, but he was defeated. Gou Xi, the Prefect of Puyang, campaigned against Gong Shi Fan and killed him. Shi Le and Ji Sang fled to the Yuan region to take refuge. Ji Sang had Shi Le guard at night, raid counties, and capture prisoners, while also recruiting fugitives from the mountains and wilderness. Many people rallied to Shi Le, who led them in support of Ji Sang. Ji Sang declared himself Grand General, claiming to avenge Chengdu King Ying and to avenge himself on East Sea King Yue and East Ying Gong Teng. Ji Sang appointed Shi Le as the vanguard, who achieved many military successes and was granted the title of General of Scouting and the Marquis of Zhongmingting.
Jisang marched to attack Ye City, with Shi Le serving as the vanguard commander, defeating Feng Song, a general of Teng, before marching straight into Ye City. They killed Teng and many others, looted women and treasures before departing. Jisang departed from Yanjin, heading south to attack Yanzhou. The Prince of Donghai, Yue, was fearful and sent Gou Xi, Wang Zan, and others to attack them. Jisang and Shi Le attacked Shi Shao, the Inspector of Youzhou, at Leling, where Shi Shao died in battle. Qihuo army leader Tian Yin led fifty thousand troops to rescue Shi Shao, but Shi Le defeated Tian Yin. They then confronted Gou Xi and others in Pingyuan and Yangping for several months, engaging in over thirty battles with varying outcomes. Yue, fearing defeat, took position at Guandu and sent Gou Xi to support. Jisang and Shi Le were defeated by Gou Xi, suffering tens of thousands of casualties. They regrouped to flee to Liu Yuanhai. Ding Shao, the Inspector of Jizhou, intercepted them at Chiqiao and defeated them. Jisang fled to Mamu, while Shi Le fled to Leping. The imperial army ultimately killed Jisang in Pingyuan. At that time, the Hu leaders Beibao Du and Feng Motu established camp with several thousand troops in Shangdang, refusing to submit to the court. Shi Le was invited by them and quickly formed a friendship. Shi Le told Beibao Du, "Liu Chanyu has rebelled against the Jin Dynasty. If you don’t join him, how do you expect to survive on your own?" Beibao Du replied, "No." Shi Le continued, "Since you can't, your troops must find a backing. Now that Chanyu has bought off and recruited many of your people, with many already planning to betray you and join Chanyu, you should plan ahead!" Beibao Du and his men, lacking the strength to resist, feared their subordinates' rebellion and secretly followed Shi Le back to Yuanhai.
Yuan Hai bestowed the title of Prince of Han upon Bei Bao, appointed Feng Motu as the Grand Commander, and elevated Shi Le to the position of Assistant General of Han and Prince of Pingjin, leading them. Shi Le acknowledged Bei Bao as his elder brother, gave him the surname Shi, and named him Shi Hui, in memory of their encounter. The Wuhuan leader Zhang Fulidu also arrived with two thousand soldiers and camped in Le Ping, but despite Yuan Hai's repeated attempts to persuade him to surrender, he remained steadfast. Shi Le feigned an error and deliberately sought refuge with Zhang Fulidu. Zhang Fulidu was delighted and swore brotherhood with Shi Le, allowing him to raid far and wide, winning every battle. The other Huns feared him and followed him loyally. Once everyone had pledged their allegiance to him, Shi Le seized the opportunity to capture Shi Hui and asked the other Huns, "Now, who is more suitable to be the leader, me or Shi Hui?" All the Huns chose Shi Le as their chief. Shi Le then released Shi Hui and led his troops to join Yuan Hai. Yuan Hai elevated Shi Le to lead the military campaigns in Shandong and put Zhang Fulidu's army under his command.
Yuan Hai dispatched Liu Cong to assault Hu Pass, ordering Shi Le to lead seven thousand soldiers as the vanguard. Liu Kun sent the guard Huang Xiu and others to rescue Hu Pass, but Shi Le overcame Huang Xiu at Bai Tian, resulting in Huang Xiu's death and the fall of Hu Pass. Later, Yuan Hai ordered Shi Le, along with Liu Ling, Yan Pi, and seven other generals, to lead thirty thousand troops to attack the fortresses in Wei and Dunqiu, capturing many strongholds. Shi Le designated the surrendered fortress owners as generals and captains, recruited fifty thousand able-bodied young men as soldiers, and ensured that the elderly, weak, women, and children could live peacefully. The army was strictly forbidden from looting, and the populace expressed deep gratitude towards him.
Once upon a time, Yuan Hai proclaimed himself emperor and sent a messenger to deliver a ceremonial staff to Shi Le, appointing him Grand General of the East and retaining his other titles like Colonel, Commander, and King. Shi Le led his army to attack Ye City, which fell almost immediately. Yu, terrified, fled to the State of Wei. Shi Le captured Wang Cui, the Prefect of Wei County, at Santai. He then attacked Zhao County, killing Feng Chong, the Commandant of the western part of Jizhou. In Zhongqiu, he took Qihuo Sheting and killed Tian Yin. Yuan Hai promoted Shi Le once more, making him Grand General of the East and granting him the authority to establish positions like Left and Right Chief Historians, Commandant, and Central Army Officer.
Shi Le continued his campaign against Julu and Changshan, defeating the defenders of both counties. He seized over a hundred cities and fortresses across Jizhou, growing his army to more than a hundred thousand men. He gathered men of status to form what was called the "Gentleman Camp." Shi Le appointed Zhang Bin as his military strategist, initially giving him the role of Military Secretary. He trusted Diao Ying and Zhang Jing as his closest advisors, Kuian and Kong Chang as his henchmen, and appointed Zhi Xiong, Hu Yanmo, Wang Yang, Tao Bao, Lu Ming, and Wu Yu as his generals. He sent his general Zhang Si to lead cavalry to various counties in the northern mountains of Bingzhou to persuade the Xiongnu and Jie peoples, explaining the benefits of joining him. The Xiongnu heard of Shi Le's reputation, and many of them were frightened, deciding to join him.
Shi Le continued his march to Changshan, sending his subordinates to attack counties such as Zhongshan, Boling, and Gaoyang, leading to tens of thousands of surrenders.
Wang Jun sent his general Qi Hong with over a hundred thousand Xianbei cavalry to attack Shi Le. This resulted in a decisive victory for Qi Hong at Feilong Mountain, resulting in the deaths of over ten thousand of Shi Le's troops. Shi Le retreated to Liyang and then sent his subordinates to attack those who had not surrendered or rebelled, seizing over thirty strongholds and appointing officials to manage these areas and pacify the people. Later, Shi Le attacked Xindu and killed the Governor of Jizhou, Wang Bin.
In response, the General of Chariots and Cavalry Wang Kan and the Northern General Pei Xian led troops from Luoyang to punish Shi Le. Shi Le set fire to his camp and supplies, then established his camp at Huangnoulei. The Prefect of Weijun, Liu Ju, surrendered Weijun to Shi Le, who then appointed Liu Ju to lead the troops at Huangnoulei as the left wing of his central army. When Shi Le reached Liyang, Pei Xian deserted his troops and fled to Huainan, while Wang Kan retreated to a fortress. Later, Yuan Hai conferred upon Shi Le the title of Grand General of the East, awarded him the title of Duke of Jizhou, and allowed him to hold military command as before. However, Shi Le adamantly refused the title of Duke of Jizhou.
Together with Yan Pi, Shi Le launched assaults on and captured the strongholds of Quan and Yuan Shi. Yan Pi was shot and killed during the battle, and Shi Le took over his army. Shi Le stealthily crossed the Yellow River at Shiqiao, captured Baima, and executed over three thousand men, women, and children in the city. He then launched an attack on Juancheng to the east, killing the Inspector of Yanzhou, Yuan Fu. Next, he attacked Cangyuan, broke through, and killed Wang Kan. He then crossed the Yellow River again, attacked Guangzong, Qinghe, Pingyuan, Yangping, and other counties, with over ninety thousand troops surrendering to him. He then crossed south over the Yellow River, and the Prefect of Xingyang, Pei Chun, made his escape to Jianye.
At this time, Liu Cong launched an attack on Henei, and Shi Le led his cavalry to support him, jointly assaulting Wude, where Champion General Liang Ju was stationed. The Jin Huai Emperor dispatched troops to aid Liang Ju. Shi Le left his generals behind to defend Wude, and he and Wang Sang pursued Liang Ju in Changling. Liang Ju wanted to surrender, but Shi Le refused to accept, so Liang Ju climbed over a wall to escape, but was captured by soldiers. Shi Le quickly returned to Wude, ordered the execution of over 10,000 surrendered soldiers, then enumerated Liang Ju's crimes before executing him. The Jin army retreated, leaving the various forts in Hebei in a state of fear, all requesting to surrender and pledge allegiance to Shi Le.
After Yuan Hai's death, Liu Cong designated Shi Le as Grand General of the East, Inspector of Bingzhou, Duke of Ji County, granting him authority and command, with the same official titles as previously held. Shi Le firmly declined the position of general, and Liu Cong relented.
Liu Can commanded an army of forty thousand to assault Luoyang, leaving the logistics at Chongmen, leading an additional twenty thousand cavalry to rendezvous with Liu Can in Dayang. They achieved a decisive victory against the court army at Mianchi, pushing forward to Luochuan. Liu Can emerged from Huanyuan and subsequently launched an attack on Chenggao Pass, laying siege to Wang Zan, the Prefect of Chenliu, at Cangyuan, but was ultimately defeated by Wang Zan, forcing him to retreat to Wenshijin. He intended to march north to confront Wang Jun, but Wang Jun's general Wang Jia led over ten thousand Xianbei cavalry to defeat Zhao Gu in the north of the ferry, thus, Liu Le was compelled to burn his camp, abandon his ships, and retreat towards Baimen to secure the logistics at Chongmen. Upon reaching Shimen, he crossed the Yellow River and launched an attack on Cui Kuang, the Prefect of Xiangcheng, ultimately killing him in Fanchang.
Previously, Wang Ru, Hou Tuo, Yan Yi, and others who had fled Yongzhou rebelled in the Jianghuai region. Hearing that Liu Le was coming, they were terrified, so they sent 10,000 troops to defend Xiangcheng. Liu Le defeated them, capturing all their soldiers. Liu Le arrived in Nanyang and camped at Wannorth Mountain. Wang Ru feared that Liu Le would assault Xiangcheng, so he sent treasures to reward his troops and also became sworn brothers with Liu Le, which Liu Le gladly accepted. Wang Ru was at odds with Hou Tuo, so he advised Liu Le to attack Hou Tuo. That night, Liu Le ordered his army to march at dawn, and at daybreak, they attacked the gates of Wancheng; after a siege lasting over ten days, they broke through. Yan Yi led his troops to rescue Hou Tuo, but arrived too late and was forced to surrender to Liu Le. Liu Le killed Hou Tuo and imprisoned Yan Yi, sending them to Pingyang and significantly strengthening his own forces.
Liu Le headed south to attack Xiangyang, capturing over thirty camps in Jiangxi, leaving Diao Ying to guard Xiangyang while he personally led thirty thousand elite soldiers to attack Wang Ru. Fearing Wang Ru's strength, he hurried to Xiangcheng. When Wang Ru found out, he sent his brother Wang Li to lead twenty-five thousand cavalry, pretending to reward the troops but actually planning to ambush Liu Le. Liu Le counterattacked, destroying Wang Li's army, and then stationed in Jiangxi, likely aiming to dominate the Jianghan region. Zhang Bin believed this strategy was flawed and advised Liu Le to return north, but Liu Le ignored the advice and appointed Zhang Bin as a military officer, while also taking on the role of secretary, with a rank above that of a Sima, to oversee military operations.
The emperor was worried that Shi Le would continue to cause trouble in the south, so he sent Wang Dao to lead troops to attack him. Shi Le's army lacked supplies, and many people died from the plague. He adopted Zhang Bin's strategy, burned their supplies, moved swiftly, crossed the Mian River, and attacked Jiangxia. Yang Ju, the governor of Jiangxia, took off without a second thought. Later, Shi Le attacked Xinchai and killed Sima Que, the ruler of Xinchai. A number of officials surrendered to Shi Le, including Lord Langling He Xi, Lord Guangling Chen Zhen, Governor of Shangdang Yang Zong, Governor of Guangping Shao Zhao, and others. Shi Le advanced all the way to Xuchang and killed General Wang Kang.
Earlier, Prince Sima Yue of Donghai led more than 200,000 troops from Luoyang to attack Shi Le, but Sima Yue died in the army. Everyone elected Grand Commandant Wang Yan as the leader and continued to lead the army eastward in retreat. Shi Le pursued with light cavalry. Wang Yan sent General Qian Duan to fight Shi Le, but Qian Duan was defeated and killed, and Wang Yan's army fell apart. Shi Le surrounded them and rained arrows down on them, and no one escaped. Shi Le captured Wang Yan, as well as Prince Xiangyang Sima Fan, Prince Rencheng Sima Ji, Prince Xihe Sima Xi, Prince Liang Sima Xi, Prince Qi Sima Chao, and others, and questioned them about the state of the Jin Dynasty. Wang Yan and Sima Ji, fearing for their lives, desperately pleaded, only Sima Fan remained calm and composed, even rebuking Shi Le. Shi Le found him intriguing. Later, Shi Le took these princes and officials outside and killed them, leading to numerous deaths. Shi Le found Wang Yan eloquent and Sima Fan extraordinary, so he couldn't bring himself to execute them. That night, he ordered the walls to be torn down and buried them alive.
Left Guard He Lun and Right Guard Li Yun heard that Sima Yue had died, so they escorted Sima Yue's wife Pei Shi and Sima Yue's son Sima Pi out of Luoyang. Shi Le intercepted Sima Pi at Weicang; the army was defeated again and captured Sima Pi along with other royal ministers, leading to a high number of casualties. Then, Shi Le led thirty thousand elite soldiers into Luoyang through Chengao Pass. Just as Liu Yao and Wang Mi were attacking Luoyang, after the city was breached, Shi Le attributed the credit to Liu Yao and Wang Mi, then departed from Huan Yuan and set up camp in Xuchang. Liu Cong appointed Shi Le as General of the Eastern Conquest, but Shi Le firmly refused the position.
Li Hong from Pingyang had a few thousand troops stationed in Wuyang, and Gou Xi took advantage of Li Hong's power to become the Governor of Yongzhou. Then, Shi Le led troops to attack Guyang, killed Champion General Wang Zi, and then defeated Wang Zan, capturing him in Yangxia and appointing him as an Attendant. Afterwards, Shi Le launched a surprise attack on Grand General Gou Xi in Mengcheng and defeated him, capturing Gou Xi and appointing him as Left Sima. Finally, Liu Cong appointed Shi Le as General of the Eastern Conquest and Governor of Youzhou, but Shi Le refused the general's position.
First, Wang Mi fell for Liu Lun's scheme and planned to eliminate Shi Le first, then take over Qingzhou for himself. He even sent Liu Lun to attack the Qi general Cao Yi. As a result, Shi Le's cavalry captured Liu Lun and seized letters exchanged between Wang Mi and Cao Yi. Shi Le then killed Liu Lun and started thinking about how to deal with Wang Mi. At this time, Wang Mi's general Xu Miao left him with his troops, weakening Wang Mi's power. Later, Shi Le captured Gou Xi, which greatly displeased Wang Mi. He then put on a humble front and said to Shi Le, "General, you captured Gou Xi but let him go. You are truly extraordinary! Let Gou Xi be your right-hand man, and I’ll be your left-hand man. Isn't it easy to conquer the world?" Shi Le said to Zhang Bin, "Although Wang Mi has a high status, he speaks humbly. I’m concerned he might be up to something behind my back." Zhang Bin said, "I think Wang Mi wants to occupy Qingzhou; that's just human nature, isn’t it? General, don’t you want to occupy Bingzhou? Wang Mi hasn’t acted yet because he’s afraid you might outshine him later. He has long wanted to deal with you; he just hasn’t found the right moment yet. Now's the time to take him out; otherwise, Cao Yi may come again, and if they team up, it’ll be too late to backtrack! Xu Miao has already left, Wang Mi's forces have weakened, but he still has his sights set high. We can manipulate him and then eliminate him." Shi Le thought Zhang Bin made sense.
At that time, Shi Le was engaged in battle against Chen Wu in Pengguan, while Wang Mi was also fiercely fighting Liu Rui. Wang Mi sought help from Shi Le, but Shi Le did not agree. Zhang Bin said, "General, you have always been worried about not getting the chance to deal with Wang Mi, and now the opportunity has come to you! Chen Wu is just a minor figure and not a threat; Wang Mi is the one we should be concerned about, as he will eventually become our enemy." Shi Le then turned to attack Liu Rui and killed him. Wang Mi was overjoyed, believing that Shi Le genuinely supported him and no longer doubted him. Shi Le led his troops to attack Chen Wu in Feize. Li Tou, the Prefect of Shangdang under Chen Wu, said to Shi Le, "General, you are naturally brave and should pacify the world. The people look to you, hoping you can save them from danger. If someone is vying for the world with you and you don't deal with him early, instead coming to attack us common people, eventually our fellow villagers will support you. Why force us?" Shi Le found this reasoning compelling and withdrew his troops the next day.
Shi Le feigned an invitation to Wang Mi for a banquet at Yiwu. Wang Mi's Chief of Staff, Zhang Song, advised Wang Mi not to go, fearing there might be an assassination like Zhu Zhu or Sun Jun, but Wang Mi did not listen. After Wang Mi went, after three rounds of toasts, Shi Le personally killed Wang Mi and absorbed his army, then reported to the court that Wang Mi had rebelled. The court appointed Shi Le as the Grand General of the Eastern Garrison, Supervisor of Military Affairs in Youzhou and Yanzhou, Governor of Bingzhou, and other titles, with his rank remaining unchanged.
Gou Xi and Wang Jun plotted to assassinate Le, but Le eliminated them instead. He then appointed Zuo Fusu as the Vanguard Captain, leading troops to raid and pillage various counties in Yuzhou. After reaching the Yangtze River, they returned and stationed at Gebei, capturing the barbarians and defectors from the Chu region. He appointed officials holding the rank of two thousand stones and collected their food supplies for the army.
Initially, Shi Le was sold to the plains and became separated from his mother, Lady Wang. At this time, Liu Kun sent Zhang Ru to deliver Shi Le's mother to him and wrote him a letter, saying: "General, you have risen to prominence in the Hebei region, swept through Yanzhou and Yuzhou, horses drink from the Yangtze and Huai rivers, and your army's might reverberates along the Hanshui and Mianshui rivers. Even the ancient famous generals cannot compare to you. However, you cannot maintain control over the people in the cities you conquer, nor can you control the land you occupy; you gather many people at once, only to scatter them later. General, do you not see the reason for this? The key to survival is in choosing the right leader, and the key to success lies in choosing the right object of attachment; choosing a just master is righteous, while aligning with rebels is akin to banditry. Even if the righteous fail, their contributions will ultimately be recognized; even if the bandits succeed, they will eventually be eliminated. The reason why the Red Eyebrow Army and Yellow Turban Army quickly failed in the past was that their uprising had no justification; they rebelled just for the sake of rebellion. General, given your exceptional talent and the fame you have garnered across the land, you should choose to attach yourself to virtuous people, adapt to the times, and submit to them. Your achievements and virtuous actions will shine brightly, and you will enjoy a long-lasting prestigious position. Betraying wise men will eliminate disaster, while attaching to a wise lord will bring happiness. You should heed my advice, change your thinking; what in the world cannot be settled? What is a small rebellion in comparison? I now bestow upon you the titles of Palace Attendant, Grand General of Chariots and Cavalry, Commander of the Xiongnu Guards, and Duke of Xiangcheng, overseeing both internal and external affairs, bearing the titles of both the Han Chinese and barbarians, appointing you as Duke of a great commandery to recognize your exceptional abilities. General, please accept this; it will also fulfill the expectations near and far. Throughout history, no barbarian has ever ascended to the throne, but there have been many renowned officials who have accomplished great feats. I am advising you in this way because the world is in chaos and needs someone with your talents and strategies. I have heard that your sieges and field battles are well-timed; even if you do not consult military texts, you are following the strategies of Sun Wu. This truly embodies the concept of 'those who are born knowledgeable'! As long as you can get five thousand elite soldiers, with your abilities, what place cannot be conquered by you! All I have said comes from the heart, and Zhang Ru can attest to this."
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Shi Le replied to Liu Kun, saying, "The way we achieve success is different, something that scholars cannot understand. You should perform well in the court, I have my own plans, and it's not easy for me to serve you." Then Shi Le gave Liu Kun some famous horses and treasures, warmly received his envoy, and declined his invitation as a way to sever ties with Liu Kun.
Shi Le built houses in Gebei, trained farmers to build ships, and prepared to attack Jianye. As a result, heavy rain fell for three months without stopping, so Emperor Yuan ordered all the generals to assemble their armies in Shouchun. Shi Le's army suffered from hunger and plague, resulting in the deaths of over half of its soldiers. Imperial orders continued to arrive, and Shi Le summoned the generals to discuss. Right Chief Historian Diao Ying advised him to first offer tribute to the emperor, request to pacify the Hebei region, and think of a way slowly after the army withdrew. Shi Le sighed and let out a long sigh after hearing this.
Mid-level officer Kui An advised Shi Le to find higher ground to escape the flood. Shi Le said, "General, what's wrong with you? Why so timid?" Kong Chang, Zhi Xiong, and more than thirty generals stood up and said, "While the Wu army hasn't assembled yet, we ask each general to take three hundred infantry, board more than thirty ships at night, climb the city walls, kill the Wu generals, seize the city, and take their supplies. This year, we must break through Danyang, pacify Jiangnan, and capture all the young Sima heirs!" Shi Le chuckled and replied, "This is the strategy of brave generals!" So he rewarded each of them with a set of armor and a war horse.
Shi Le asked Zhang Bin again, "What strategy do you have?" Zhang Bin said, "General, if you capture the imperial capital, imprison the emperor, kill the nobles, and plunder the concubines, even if you were to pull out every single hair on your head, your sins cannot be counted. How can you ever go back to being a subject? After you executed Wang Mi last year, you shouldn't have built fortifications here. Such heavy rain has fallen, flooding hundreds of miles around; this is a hint that you should not stay here! Ye City has three solid strongholds, connected to Pingyang in the west, surrounded by mountains and water; it's in a highly strategic location. You should move north and station there. Once the Hebei region is pacified after suppressing the rebellion and calming the people, no one will be more powerful than you, General. The reason why the Jin Dynasty stationed troops in Shou Chun was because they were afraid of you attacking. Now that they suddenly hear you want to withdraw, they'll be pleased to hear the enemy is retreating; they will not expect you to use a surprise attack. The supplies can go north; the army can first advance on Shou Chun. After the supplies pass through, the army can slowly retreat; are you afraid of having no room for maneuver?"
Shi Le rolled up his sleeves, stroked his beard, and said, "Bin's plan is good!" Then he reprimanded Diao Ying, saying, "You should assist each other and plan for the success of the great cause together; how can you advise me to surrender! In theory, you should be executed. But you are timid and afraid of trouble, so I will spare you." He then dismissed Diao Ying from his general position, promoted Zhang Bin to Right Chief Historian, and appointed him as the General of the Central Barracks, titled "Right Marquis."
It is said that Shi Le set out from Gebei and sent Shi Jilong with two thousand cavalry to attack Shou Chun. Coincidentally, the boats from Jiangnan carrying dozens of ships filled with rice and cloth arrived. The soldiers all rushed to grab them, completely neglecting their battle preparations. As a result, the ambushed troops from the Jin army suddenly emerged and defeated Shi Jilong at Julingkou, with over five hundred soldiers drowning in the river. The remaining troops fled over a hundred miles before finally reaching Shi Le's main army.
The army was thrown into chaos, believing that the main force of the Jin army was arriving, and quickly lined up to prepare for battle. The Jin army, fearing an ambush, retreated from Shou Chun. Along the way, the civilians had cleared the area, leaving nothing behind to loot. The army began to suffer from famine, and the soldiers resorted to cannibalism. Upon reaching the border of Dong Yan, word came that Xiang Bing, the Prefect of Ji County, had led thousands of troops to build a camp at Fangtou. Shi Le planned to cross the river at Jijin, but was worried about an ambush by Xiang Bing, so he gathered his generals to strategize.
Zhang Bin suggested, "I heard that all of Xiang Bing's ships are still in the river and haven't been moved to the camp at Fangtou yet. We can select a thousand strong and brave soldiers to secretly cross the river from a hidden path, attack and seize his ships, and then use these ships to ferry the troops across. Once the army crosses the river, Xiang Bing will definitely be captured!" Shi Le accepted his suggestion and sent Zhi Xiong, Kong Chang, and others to secretly make the crossing from Wenshijin using bound rafts, while he himself led the army from Suanzao to Jijin.
Upon hearing that Shi Le's army had arrived, Xiang Bing tried to bring the ships to shore. However, Zhi Xiong and his men had already made the crossing, seized control of the entrance to Xiang Bing's camp, captured over thirty ships to transport their troops, and even sent the registrar Xian Yu Feng out to issue a challenge, while secretly ambushing three groups of soldiers to await Xiang Bing. Enraged, Xiang Bing immediately led his troops into battle, but was attacked from all sides, losing his supplies, which boosted the morale of Shi Le's troops. Shi Le pressed on with his campaign, attacking Ye City and the three strongholds defended by General Liu Yan of the North, who, along with his generals Lin Shen and Mou Mu, surrendered to Shi Le along with tens of thousands of troops.
At that time, it was said that all the generals were discussing how to capture San Tai and then claim it for themselves. Zhang Bin stood up and said, "There are still thousands of troops under Liu Yan, and San Tai is of strategic importance. It is difficult to seize in the short term. We might as well give it up and let them fall apart on their own. Wang Pengzu and Liu Yueshi are the true formidable foes! We should take advantage of their unpreparedness, quietly plan to take Hancheng, transport a large supply of food and supplies, request assistance from Pingyang to the west, clear out Bingzhou and Jizhou, and achieve the same feats as Emperor Huan Wen. Furthermore, now that the world is in turmoil, the war has just begun, everyone is running around, people's hearts are unsettled, gaining absolute control over the world is very challenging. As the saying goes, 'those who gain land thrive, while those who lose land perish.' Handan and Xiangguo were the ancient capitals of the Zhao Kingdom, situated near mountains and rivers, boasting a superior geographical location. We can choose these two places as our capitals, then order the generals to attack everywhere, formulate unique battle strategies, defeat the enemy, strengthen our own power, and dismantle them one by one, so we can remove those treacherous ministers and establish our rule." Le listened and replied, "The Marquis of the Right (Zhang Bin's official title) is right!" So they moved to Xiangguo. Zhang Bin said to Le again, "Now that we’ve set our capital here, Yueshi and Pengzu will surely be cautious. They may come to challenge us before our city is fully fortified. I've heard that the autumn harvest in Guangping and nearby areas is plentiful, so we can send generals to gather supplies. We also need to send envoys to Pingyang to explain why we need to be based here." Le agreed. So they sent a report to Liu Cong, sent generals to assault the counties of Jizhou, constructed fortifications, and many places surrendered, with supplies sent to Le. Liu Cong appointed Le as the Envoy, Cavalry Attendant, Commander of the four provinces of Ji, You, Bing, and Yi, Commander of various military operations, Governor of Jizhou, and also elevated him to Duke of Shangdang County, with a fief of fifty thousand households, while retaining his previous titles of Governor of Youzhou and Colonel of Dongyi.
Shi Le, the Prefect of Guangping, had You Lun and Zhang Chai under his command, leading tens of thousands of troops and occupying Yuanxiang with false orders from Wang Jun. Shi Le ordered seven generals, including Kui An and Zhi Xiong, to attack them, breaching the outer fortifications. Wang Jun then sent Commander Wang Chang, as well as Xianbei generals Duan Jiuliu, Mo Bai, and Pi Di, leading over 50,000 soldiers to attack Shi Le. At that time, the city walls were still under construction, so Shi Le constructed temporary walls and barricades in Xiangguo, establishing defensive positions to await the enemy.
Duan Jiuliu and his troops were stationed in Zhuyang. Shi Le sent his generals to challenge them in rotation, but they were consistently defeated by Duan Jiuliu. Shi Le learned that the enemy was mass-producing siege weaponry, so he addressed his generals, "Now the enemy is drawing nearer; they outnumber us. I'm afraid we won't be able to win the siege battle, there are no reinforcements outside, and the food in the city is running out. Even if Sun Wu were to rise again, we still couldn't hold out! I want to choose elite soldiers and formidable generals to engage them in a decisive battle; what are your thoughts?" The generals replied, "We should hold our ground, wear down the enemy's strength, and wait for them to tire before striking; we can surely defeat them!"
Shi Le asked Zhang Bin and Kong Chang again, "What do you think?" Zhang Bin and Kong Chang both said, "I've heard that the Six Guardians will be executed in the first ten days of next month in the northern city. Their army has come from far away and has been engaged in continuous fighting and defense for several days. They must think that our forces are weak and dare not engage in battle, so they must be feeling relaxed. The soldiers of the Duan clan are very brave now, especially Mo Bei, who is the fiercest. The most elite soldiers are under Mo Bei's command. We can hold off on fighting for now and intentionally appear weak. Let’s quickly dig out over twenty passages in the northern city wall. When the enemy has set up their formation and their defense isn’t stable yet, we’ll catch them off guard and charge straight at Mo Bei's camp. The enemy will definitely freak out and won’t have time to react; this is what they call 'swift as lightning.' Once we capture Mo Bei, then we’ll have our time figured out." Shi Le smiled and accepted their suggestion, immediately appointing Kong Chang as the commander of the attack, and started digging passages on the northern city.
The Xianbei army entered the northern camp and set up their base. Before their formation had stabilized, Shi Le personally led the soldiers to shout and cheered from the city walls. At this time, Kong Chang urged the ambush troops at each passage to launch a coordinated attack, capturing Mo Bei, causing the armies of Liu Ju and his allies to scatter. Kong Chang pursued the victory, with bodies piling up for over thirty li, capturing five thousand war horses and armor. Liu Ju regrouped the remnants of the defeated soldiers, stationed at Zhuyang, and sent envoys to negotiate peace, along with armor, war horses, and gold and silver. He took Mo Bei's three younger brothers as hostages, requesting the release of Mo Bei. The generals advised Shi Le to execute Mo Bei to weaken the enemy, but Shi Le said, "The Xianbei in Liaoxi is a powerful country. We originally had no grievances; we were merely pawns of Wang Jun. Killing one person now will make an enemy of a country, which is not a good idea. Let him go; he will surely be grateful to us, and he will not serve Wang Jun again in the future." So Shi Le accepted the hostages, sent Shi Jilong and Liu Ju to ally at Zhuyang, and became sworn brothers, and Liu Ju and others retreated. Shi Le sent his staff officer, Yan Zong, to report the victory to Liu Cong.
Then You Lun and Zhang Chai requested to surrender and pledge allegiance. Shi Le planned to attack Youzhou, but needed to recuperate, so he temporarily accepted their request and appointed them as generals. Later, Shi Le dispatched troops to attack Xindu, killing Wang Xiang, the Inspector of Jizhou. Wang Jun then appointed Shao Ju as the Inspector of Jizhou and stationed him in Xindu.
In 313 AD, Shi Le attacked the three platforms of Ye City, which fell. Liu Yan fled to Bingqiu. Generals Xie Xu, Tian Qing, Lang Mu, and others surrendered to Shi Le with the people of the three platforms. Shi Le appointed Tao Bao as the Prefect of Weijun to pacify the local people. He also adopted Duan Mobei as his son, appointing him as General of Pacification, General of the North, and Duke of Beiping, and sent him back to Liaoxi. Duan Mobei was grateful for Shi Le's kindness, bowing south three times along the way, and from then on, the Duan family fully submitted to Shi Le, and Wang Jun's influence gradually diminished.
Shi Le continued to attack Yuan Township, captured You Lun, and made him his clerk. Later, he attacked Li Yun, the leader of the Qihuo Army, at Shangbai, killed him, and was about to kill all the surrendered soldiers when he saw Guo Jing. Recognizing him, he said, "Isn't it fate that we meet today!" Guo Jing bowed and said, "Yes." Shi Le dismounted, held his hand, and cried, saying, "Isn't it fate that we meet today!" He rewarded Guo Jing with garments, chariots, and horses, appointed him as a general, pardoned all surrendered soldiers, and let them follow Guo Jing. Shi Le's general Kong Chang attacked Dingling and killed the inspector of Yanzhou, Tian Zheng. The Wuhuan leader Bo Sheng captured Liu Ji, the Governor of Bohai, and surrendered to Shi Le with five thousand households. Liu Cong appointed Shi Le as the Palace Attendant, Grand General of the East, with no change in other positions, and also appointed Shi Le's mother, Lady Wang, as the Lady of Shangdang, and his wife, Lady Liu, as the Lady of Shangdang, rewarding them with decorations identical to those given to Lady Wang.
Duan Mohe's brother escaped back to Liaoxi, infuriating Shi Le, who ordered all county officials along the way to kill him. The Wuhuan leaders Shen Guang, Jian Shang, and Hao Xi betrayed Wang Jun, secretly sent envoys to surrender to Shi Le, who welcomed them warmly. Jizhou and Sizhou gradually stabilized, and the people began to pay taxes. Shi Le also established an academy, selecting officials proficient in classics and calligraphy as literary officials, and educating three hundred children of generals and officials. Shi Le's mother, Lady Wang, passed away, and he secretly buried her in a valley, with no one knowing the exact location. Later, in accordance with the Nine Rites, he constructed a tomb for his mother in the south of Xiangguo City.
Shi Le asked Zhang Bin, "Ye City is the old capital of Wei, and I plan to build a palace there. However, the local customs are intricate, and we need a person of high virtue and reputation to pacify the people. Who do you think would be suitable?"
Zhang Bin replied, "Before the Jin Dynasty, the Prefect of Donglai, Zhao Peng from Nanyang, was loyal, honest, diligent, and efficient in his work. He is a good official who can assist in the current situation. If the General appoints him, he will definitely be able to carry out your plans very well." So Shi Le sent someone to invite Zhao Peng and appointed him as the Prefect of Weijun. After Zhao Peng arrived in Ye City, he cried and resigned to Shi Le, saying, "I was registered in the Jin Dynasty before, receiving the salary of the Jin Dynasty. Just like a loyal dog or horse serves its master, I truly cannot forget it. Although I know the ancestral shrines of the Jin Dynasty lie in ruins, like the waters of a great river flowing eastward, never to return again. You have received the Mandate of Heaven, which is a tremendous opportunity. But accepting others' favors and serving two masters again is something I cannot do, and I'm afraid it's something you wouldn't want to see either. If you would allow me to live out my remaining years in peace and grant me a small wish, it would be a tremendous act of kindness." Shi Le fell silent upon hearing this. Zhang Bin continued, "Since the arrival of the General's banner, not a single person of high status has remained loyal. No one has been able to prioritize righteousness and act freely. Someone as virtuous as Zhao Peng sees you as the founding emperor and himself as one of the four ministers assisting the founding emperor, which reflects the mutual understanding between a ruler and his subjects. This could lead to unparalleled success for you, so why stick to official positions?" Shi Le was very pleased and said, "You, Lord You, have expressed exactly what I was thinking!" He then rewarded Zhao Peng with a lavish carriage and four fine horses, provided him with a minister's salary, and appointed his son Zhao Ming as a military officer. Later, Shi Le appointed Shi Jilong as the Prefect of Weijun, assigning him to oversee the three towers of Ye City. This marked the beginning of Shi Jilong's usurpation.
Wang Jun became an official and started to live extravagantly, acting high-handed and indulging in luxury, with ambitions of seizing power. He first sent people to investigate the situation. Everyone suggested, "We should correspond like Yang Hu and Lu Kang did." At that time, Zhang Bin fell ill, and Shi Le summoned him for a discussion. Zhang Bin said, "Wang Jun, leveraging the strength of three armies, proclaimed himself emperor. Although he claims to be a vassal of the Jin Dynasty, in reality, he has long been thinking of rebellion, certainly trying to recruit talented individuals for his grand ambitions. General, your reputation is far-reaching; your presence or absence is crucial for our survival, and your location will dictate the balance of power. Wang Jun wants to win you over, just like the State of Chu did with Han Xin. Now he sends people to probe with no genuine intent. If any doubts arise or his schemes are uncovered, even the most brilliant plans will come to nothing. Those aspiring to greatness must start with humility and should present themselves as vassals; why wouldn’t he trust it? I believe what Yang Hu and Lu Kang did is not the way to go." Shi Le said, "Your plan, Right Marquis, is spot on."
Therefore, Shi Le sent his aides Wang Zichun, Dong Zhao, and others, bringing many treasures and a written decree, proclaiming Wang Jun as the emperor. The decree stated: "I, Shi Le, was originally a humble Hu man, born into the Rongdi tribe. As the Jin Dynasty declined, famine spread across the land, displacing the people. I fled to Jizhou, where we came together to survive. Now, the Jin Dynasty has fallen apart, with its power now confined to the Wu Hui region. The Central Plains lack a leader, leaving the people helpless. I have heard of Your Highness's esteemed reputation throughout the provinces; you are admired by all. Who else could possibly be worthy of the throne but you? I have risked my life and raised an army to clear the path for Your Highness. I hope you will ascend the throne as destiny intends. I will support you as if you were my own parent, and I hope you will recognize my sincerity and treat me as your own son." Shi Le also penned a letter to Zao Song, along with many gifts.
Wang Jun said to Wang Zichun and others, "Shi Le was once brave, occupying the old capital of Zhao and establishing a tripod-like power. Why would he submit to me? Is this believable?" Wang Zichun replied, "General Shi is indeed as valiant as the imperial edict describes. But you are well-known across the provinces, come from a prestigious lineage, guard the borders, and have a reputation that extends far and wide. The barbarians and Yue people admire your demeanor; the northern tribes sing your praises. What small official would dare not bow to you? Did Chen Ying look down on the princes who didn’t claim kingship? Did Han Xin disdain being emperor without being proclaimed as such? They only knew that the emperor's throne can't be won through cleverness alone. General Shi honors you as emperor, like a dim star next to the sun, or rivers next to the ocean. The failures of Xiang Yu and Ziying are evident; this is General Shi's understanding. Moreover, while there have been skilled ministers among the barbarians, none have ever become emperor. General Shi didn’t give up the throne because he disliked being emperor, but because the position of power in the world isn't determined by fate. I hope you do not doubt." Wang Jun was very pleased and appointed Wang Zichun and others as marquises, sending envoys to inform Shi Le and deliver some gifts.
Wang Jun's general, Sima You Tong, was stationed in Fanyang at the time, secretly betraying Wang Jun and sending envoys to surrender to Shi Le. Shi Le killed the envoys and sent their bodies to Wang Jun to demonstrate his sincerity. Although Wang Jun chose not to punish Sima You Tong, he grew even more convinced of Shi Le's loyalty and no longer doubted him.
Shi Le sent a messenger to meet Wang Jun, secretly hiding elite troops and deliberately presenting a façade of weakness to Wang Jun. Then they bowed northward in reverence to the messenger, accepting Wang Jun's letter. Wang Jun sent a deer tail to Shi Le, and Shi Le feigned reluctance to accept it, hanging it on the wall and bowing to it every morning and evening, saying, "Though I cannot meet the Duke in person, seeing the items he sent is just like meeting him." Shi Le also sent Dong Zhao with a memorial to see Wang Jun, indicating that he would soon visit Youzhou in person to present a title. He also wrote to Zao Song, requesting to be appointed as the Governor of Bingzhou and the Duke of Guangping, to demonstrate his sincerity.
Shi Le planned to deal with Wang Jun, so he discussed it with Zichun. Zichun said, "Last year, there was a flood in Youzhou, and the common people were starving. Wang Jun hoarded a million stones of grain, yet he refused to provide any relief. His laws were harsh, taxes were heavy, he harmed the virtuous, executed advisors, and the people could no longer endure it and began to flee and rebel. The Xianbei and Wuhuan tribes were also disloyal, Zao Song, Tian Jiao, and other officials were greedy and cruel, the people's morale was shattered, and the soldiers were exhausted. But Wang Jun still built high towers and pavilions, projecting an image of a fully staffed administration, even boasting that he surpassed both Emperor Gaozu of Han and Emperor Wu of Wei. Moreover, ominous rumors circulated throughout Youzhou, and everyone who heard them was filled with fear, yet Wang Jun was still very pleased, not afraid at all; this is clearly a sign of his impending downfall!" Shi Le laughed and said, "This old man Wang Jun, he can really be caught!"
When the messenger sent by Wang Jun arrived in Youzhou, he reported in detail to Wang Jun about Shi Le's feeble power and sincere intentions. Wang Jun was thrilled to hear this and believed that Shi Le was genuinely surrendering.
Shi Le was preparing to lead his troops to attack Wang Jun, but he was having second thoughts, worried that Liu Kun and the Xianbei and Wuhuan tribes might be plotting against him, so he hesitated to take action. Zhang Bin stepped forward and said, "In battle, you need to catch the enemy off guard and strike only when your troops are at the city gates. The army is all prepared, so why delay, regardless of any enemies behind us?" Shi Le said, "Yes, what should we do then?" Zhang Bin said, "Peng Zu secured his position in Youzhou with the support of three armies. Now, these three armies have all turned against him and become enemies. This means that there is no external help for Youzhou to resist us. Youzhou is now poor and hungry, the people are reduced to eating wild vegetables, morale is low, and the army is weak, meaning there is no strong army inside Youzhou to resist us. If our army advances, Youzhou will definitely collapse immediately. Although the three sides have not been pacified yet, General, you can lead a light and fast attack on Youzhou, which will take less than twenty days for a round trip. Even if the three sides do make a move, we can pull back in time. So we should seize the opportunity, take immediate action, and not delay!" "Furthermore, although Liu Kun and Wang Jun both hold positions in the Jin Dynasty, they are actually archenemies. If we send a letter to Liu Kun along with hostages to show goodwill, Liu Kun will certainly be happy to have us on his side and will be pleased to see Wang Jun destroyed. He certainly won’t come to Wang Jun's rescue, much less attack us." Shi Le said, "I've been struggling to understand something all along, but you’ve helped me see it clearly, Right Marquis. So what’s left to hesitate about?"
Shi Le easily captured Youzhou with his troops and set the city on fire in the middle of the night. Upon arriving in Bairin County, he executed the registrar You Lun because his brother You Tong was in Fanyang, and he feared that You Lun would betray military secrets. Shi Le also sent Zhang Lu to write a letter to Liu Kun, saying that he deeply regretted his sins and wanted to redeem himself by attacking Wang Jun. Liu Kun, who already harbored a dislike for Wang Jun, ordered all states and counties to declare that Wang Jun must recognize his wrongdoings. He should now reclaim Youzhou to atone for his misdeeds. He agreed to Shi Le's request and allowed him to suppress the rebellion.
When Shi Le's army reached the Yishui River, Wang Jun's guard, Sun Wei, hurriedly dispatched someone to intercept Shi Le, and You Tong also attempted to stop him. Wang Jun's generals all requested to attack Shi Le, but Wang Jun angrily said, "Shi Gong is here to make me submit to him. Whoever dares to talk about fighting will be killed!" He then ordered a feast to entertain Shi Le. Early in the morning, Shi Le arrived at Jicheng and shouted, and the defenders opened the gates. Suspecting an ambush, Shi Le first sent several thousand cows and sheep as a deceptive tribute, intending to block the streets and prevent Wang Jun's army from coming out. Wang Jun was visibly anxious, alternating between sitting and standing. Shi Le entered Wang Jun's official residence, commanded his soldiers to seize Wang Jun and bring him before him, and had Xu Guang accuse Wang Jun, saying, "You occupy a high position as Yuan Tai and hold the title of Shang Gong, controlling the rich land of Youzhou, the elite cavalry of Yan State, and commanding a powerful army. Yet you watched the capital being breached without going to rescue the emperor, but instead wanted to declare yourself king. You have employed treachery, executed loyalists, indulged your personal desires, and brought suffering to the people of Yan State. You have brought this upon yourself!" He then dispatched Wang Luo to escort Wang Jun to Xiangguo for execution in the marketplace.
Next, Shi Le sent the exiles back to their hometowns, promoted Xun Chuo and Pei Xian to higher positions, and provided them with carriages, horses, and clothing. Shi Le also executed Zhu Shuo, Zao Song, Tian Jiao, and others for corruption and misrule, and killed You Tong for disloyalty to Wang Jun. Shi Le relocated the Wuhuan leaders Shen Guang, Jian Shang, Hao Xi, Jin Shi, and others to Xiangguo and set fire to Wang Jun's palace. Shi Le appointed Liu Han, the Shangshu of the Jin Dynasty, as the General of Ning Shuo, acting governor of Youzhou, stationed at Jicheng, and after arranging for good defenders, he returned. Shi Le also appointed his East Cao Yuan Fu Gu as the Left Changshi and delivered Wang Jun's severed head to Liu Cong. After returning to Xiangguo, Liu Han betrayed Shi Le and sought refuge with Duan Pidi. Xiangguo suffered from famine, where two liters of grain cost two catties of silver, and one catty of meat cost one tael of silver. Liu Cong appointed Shi Le as the Grand Commander of the Shaanxi Military, the General of Cavalry, the Eastern Chanyu title, the Attendant, Imperial Envoy, Kaifu, Colonel, and Governor of two provinces, retaining the same titles, and added a golden gong, a yellow axe, and two sets of musical bands, as well as twelve more fiefdoms. Shi Le firmly declined, accepting just two fiefdoms. Shi Le appointed the Left Changshi Zhang Jing and eleven others as nobles, sons, and counts, and officials were promoted based on their merits. Shi Le led his troops to attack Liu Yan but was defeated by Liu Yan at Linqiu. Liu Yan sent his subordinates Han Hong and Pan Liang to launch a surprise attack on Dunqiu and killed the prefect Shao Pan, whom Shi Le had appointed there. Shi Le pursued Han Hong and his men and defeated Pan Liang in Linqiu. Liu Kun sent Jiao Qiu, the Prefect of Leping, to assault Shi Le's forces in Changshan and killed Shi Le's prefect, Xing Tai. Liu Kun's Sima Wen Qiao went west to attack the Mountain Hu, and Shi Le's general, Lu Ming, intercepted him and defeated Wen Qiao at Lucheng.
Shi Le felt that Youzhou and Jizhou were nearly pacified, so he began counting the population and wealth of the prefectures and counties. Each household was required to pay two bolts of cloth and two measures of grain. Shi Le's general, Chen Wu, rebelled in Xunyi, betraying him. Lu Ming attacked Ninghei and subdued it at Chiping, then defeated the army of Dong Yan at Guanzao, bringing back more than 20,000 surrendered households to Xiangguo. Shi Le sent his general Ge Bo to attack Puyang, capturing it and killing the governor Han Hong.
Liu Cong sent his messenger Fan Gan to deliver orders to Shi Le, along with bows and arrows, promoting Shi Le to the title of Earl of Shandong, granting him the authority to wage war independently, appointing him as governor, general, magistrate, and marquis, and mandating that he report to the court annually. Shi Le's eldest son, Shi Xing, was named the heir of Shangdang State, promoted to Wing Army General, and appointed as the deputy to the General of Chariots and Cavalry.
Liu Kun sent Wang Dan to attack Zhongshan, driving away the governor Qin Gu, who had been placed there by Shi Le. Shi Le's general Liu Wen confronted Wang Dan, defeating and capturing him at Wangduguan. Shi Le then launched a surprise attack against Shao Xu in Leling. Shao Xu fought fiercely with all his forces but was ultimately defeated and fled in disgrace.
Wang Shen of Zhangwu rebelled at Kedoulei, disrupting Shi Le's authority in Hejian, Bohai, and other regions. Shi Le appointed Yang Wu and Zhang Yi as governors of Hejian and Bohai, respectively, sending three thousand infantry and cavalry to restore order. He also stationed Cheng Xia, the governor of Changle, in Changting to bolster morale.
Finally, Shi Le relocated over 30,000 households from the Wuhuan tribe and other tribes from Pingyuan to Xiangguo.
Shi Le sent Shi Jilong to Liangcheng to attack King Liu Ping of the Qihuo faction, but he was defeated and returned in disgrace. He then turned his attention to attacking Liu Yan in Lingqiu. Meanwhile, Zhi Xiong and Lu Ming defeated Ning Hei in Dongwuyang, which drove Ning Hei to commit suicide by jumping into the river. They also relocated more than 10,000 soldiers loyal to Ning Hei to Xiangguo. Shao Xu sent Wen Yang to rescue Liu Yan, so Shi Jilong ran to Luguanjin to avoid Wen Yang. Wen Yang had no option but to set up camp in Jingteng. Some local warlords from Yanzhou and Yuzhou, such as Zhang Ping, also organized troops to rescue Liu Yan.
Shi Jilong secretly withdrew his camp in the middle of the night, set up an ambush outside, and deliberately shouted loudly that he was going back to Hebei. Zhang Ping and others believed it to be true, so they ran into the empty camp. Shi Jilong launched a counterattack, decisively defeating them and capturing Lingqiu. Liu Yan fled to Wen Yang's army, while Shi Le managed to capture Liu Yan's brother, Liu Qi, and sent him to Xiangguo. It's worth noting that this Liu Yan is the nephew of Liu Kun. In gratitude for Liu Kun's past kindness to his mother, Shi Le treated Liu Yan well, rewarded Liu Qi with land and a house, and arranged for a scholar to educate him.
At that time, a locust plague struck, which was particularly severe in Zhongshan and Changshan. The Dingling tribe leader Zhai Shu exploited the chaos to rebel against and attack Zhongshan and Changshan. Shi Le personally led his cavalry to quell the rebellion, capturing both Zhai Shu's mother and wife. Zhai Shu fled to Xuguan and ultimately fled to Daijun.
Shi Le attacked Han Ju, the Governor of Le Ping, which resulted in Han Ju being trapped in Dian City. Liu Kun sent General Ji Dan with over 100,000 troops to attack Shi Le. Liu Kun himself was stationed in Guangmu to support Ji Dan. Shi Le's generals advised him, "Ji Dan's army is strong and formidable; we should dig deep trenches and build high walls to sap their morale. This will change the situation of offense and defense, and we will definitely succeed!" However, Shi Le said, "Ji Dan's army has come from a faraway place; they are tired and weak, like a disorganized group, their orders are not unified. We can easily win a battle and capture them! The enemy is almost upon us; how can we give up the fight? Once the army is in motion, how can we easily turn back? If I retreat, Ji Dan will pursue, and we won't have time to build defenses! This would be like inviting our own destruction without even fighting!" After he finished speaking, Shi Le executed the advising general. Shi Le then appointed Kong Chang as the vanguard commander, ordering that anyone who retreats last from the three armies will be beheaded. He set up decoy troops on the mountain and ambushed two more units. Shi Le himself engaged in battle with Ji Dan using light cavalry, pretending to retreat north. Seeing this, Ji Dan quickly led his troops in pursuit. As a result, Shi Le's pre-arranged troops ambushed Ji Dan's army from both sides, leading to a crushing defeat for Ji Dan, and Shi Le captured tens of thousands of war horses. Ji Dan fled to Dai Jun, while Han Ju fled to Liu Kun. Li Hong, Liu Kun's Chief of Staff, surrendered to Shi Le, and Liu Kun was forced to flee to Duan Pidi. Shi Le relocated the residents of Yangqu and Le Ping to Xiangguo, appointed officials before withdrawing his troops. Kong Chang kept pursuing Ji Dan, chasing him all the way to the Sanggan River. Shi Le then sent his Chief of Staff, Zhang Fu, to inform Liu Cong of the victory.
When Shi Le attacked Leping, the southern part of Leping, along with Zhao Ling, the leader from He, united with thousands of households from Guangchuan, Pingyuan, and Bohai and joined the rebellion, defecting to Shao Xu. Xing Jia from Hejian had been summoned multiple times but failed to appear, and he gathered hundreds of followers in rebellion. Shi Le inspected various counties in Jizhou and appointed Cheng Xia as the General of Ning Shuo, responsible for the military affairs of the seven counties in Jizhou.
Shi Le's brother-in-law, General Guangwei Zhang Yue, was playing cards with other generals when Shi Le went to see for himself. Zhang Yue cracked a joke that rubbed Shi Le the wrong way, causing him to fly into a rage. He ordered his executioner to break Zhang Yue's legs and then have him killed.
Kong Chang attacked Daijun County and died in battle. At that time, tens of thousands of refugees from Sizhou, Jizhou, Bingzhou, and Yanzhou were in Liaoxi, plotting together, and the common folk were unable to live peacefully. Kong Chang and his forces besieged Mayan and Fengba for a long time but failed to capture them. Shi Le turned to Zhang Bin for advice, and Zhang Bin said: "Mayan and Fengba are not your archenemies. The refugees in Liaoxi all want to go back. Now we should withdraw our troops, regroup, select outstanding commanders, and let them operate like Gong Sui did, not be bound by convention, show generosity, and assert authority. The bandits in Youzhou and Jizhou will behave, and the refugees in Liaoxi will gradually return." Shi Le said, "The strategy of the Right Marquis (Zhang Bin's title) is very good." So he summoned Kong Chang and his forces back, appointed Li Hui, the county governor of Wusui, as the Governor of Yibei, General Zhenwu, and Prefect of Gaoyang. Many of Mayan's soldiers were originally from Li Qian. Li Hui used to be the Chief Secretary of Li Qian's mansion, and everyone knew Li Hui's prestige, so many people defected from Mayan to join him. Mayan, seeing his soldiers leave him, was terrified and fled to Youzhou, where he ultimately drowned. Fengba and his troops surrendered to Shi Le. Li Hui relocated to Yijing, and thousands of refugees surrendered each year. Shi Le was very happy and appointed Li Hui as Yiyangzi, with a land grant of three hundred households. He also bestowed upon Zhang Bin a land grant of one thousand households, promoting him to the position of General, but Zhang Bin firmly declined the offer. A massive locust plague struck the Hebei region. The locusts initially emerged from the ground and within twenty days morphed into cocoons. After seven to eight days of inactivity, they shed their skin and flew up, covering the sky and devastating the land everywhere. They notably avoided eating soybeans, adzuki beans, and sesame seeds, especially in Bingzhou and Jizhou, which were hit the hardest.
Shi Jilong crossed the Changshou River and attacked the Liang Kingdom, killing Neishi Xun He. Liu Kun, together with Duan Pidi, She Fuchen, Ji Liujuan, Duan Mopei, and others, gathered in Gu'an to prepare to attack Shi Le. Shi Le sent his army officer Wang Xu to bribe Duan Mopei with gold and silver treasures to create discord among them. Duan Mopei, caught between wanting to repay Shi Le's kindness and his own greed, persuaded She Fuchen and others to withdraw their troops. Liu Kun and Duan Pidi also withdrew to Jicheng.
Shao Xu dispatched his nephew Shao Ji to assault Shi Le's territory in Bohai and captured over three thousand people. Liu Cong's general Zhao Gu led the army of Luoyang and surrendered to Shi Le. Fearful of Shi Le's attack, he sent a letter through army officer Gao Shao praising Shi Le and requesting him to attack Liu Cong. Shi Le declined out of a sense of righteousness, which infuriated Zhao Gu, prompting him and Guo Mo to raid Henan and Ji counties.
Duan Mopei killed the Xianbei Chanyu Jiefu Zhen and supported Hulubalang to become the new Chanyu. Duan Pidi led troops from Youzhou to attack Duan Mopei but was caught off guard and fled back to Youzhou. Furious, Pidi even conspired to assassinate Grand Commandant Liu Kun. Liu Kun's subordinates all surrendered to Duan Mopei.
Duan Mopei then sent his brother Qidu to chase after Duan Pidi in Youzhou. Duan Pidi, with several thousand troops, tried to escape to Shao Xu but was intercepted by Duan Mopei's general Shi Yue in Yanshan. After suffering a major defeat, he had no choice but to retreat to Youzhou. During this battle, Shi Yue was killed by a stray arrow, and Duan Mopei held a mourning ceremony for him that lasted three months, posthumously honoring him with the title General of Pingnan, demonstrating how important he was to him.
At first, Cao Yi occupied Qingzhou; he betrayed Liu Cong and declared himself a vassal to the Southern Dynasties' emperor. However, Jianye was far too distant from Qingzhou, and support from the Southern Dynasties could not reach him at all. Cao Yi was afraid that Duan Mohe would come to attack him, so he sent envoys to negotiate peace with Duan Mohe. Duan Mohe gave Cao Yi an impressive title—Grand General of Dongzhou, Governor of Qingzhou, and also bestowed upon him the title of Duke of Langye, which pacified him.
Liu Cong fell seriously ill and hastily dispatched envoys to urgently request Shi Le to become the Grand General to serve as regent. Shi Le firmly declined, prompting Liu Cong to send someone with the imperial staff to formally appoint Shi Le as the Grand General, granting him military power, while allowing him to continue holding the positions of Palace Attendant, Colonel, Governor of two provinces, and Duke, along with an additional ten counties. Yet, Shi Le still refused.
Upon Liu Cong's death, his son Liu Can ascended to the throne. General Jin Zhun then assassinated Liu Can in Pingyang. Shi Le ordered Zhang Jing to lead five thousand cavalry as vanguard to attack Jin Zhun, while he himself led fifty thousand elite soldiers to follow, establishing his camp on the northern plains of Xiangling. A large number of Qiang and Jie tribesmen surrendered to Shi Le, amounting to over forty thousand. Jin Zhun challenged Shi Le several times, but Shi Le held his ground and refrained from engaging in battle, thus defeating Jin Zhun's morale.
Liu Yao made his way from Chang'an to establish himself in Puban, declaring himself emperor! He then appointed Shi Le as Grand Marshal and Grand General, bestowing upon him the Nine Treasures honor, along with an additional ten counties, totaling thirteen counties, and elevating his rank to Duke of Zhao. Shi Le attacked the small city of Pingyang that Jin Zhun was defending, and the magistrate Zhou Zhi and others surrendered to Shi Le, bringing with them six thousand civilian households. The forces from Bazhou and other Qiang and Jie tribes, numbering over a hundred thousand, surrendered to Shi Le, who then resettled them in various counties of Sizhou.
Jin Zhun sent Bu Tai with the emperor's imperial entourage and attire to seek peace. Shi Le and Liu Yao both wanted to win over Bu Tai, so Shi Le gave Bu Tai to Liu Yao to inform Liu Yao that the people of Pingyang City had no intention of surrendering, with the aim of undermining Liu Yao's morale. To Shi Le's surprise, Liu Yao secretly allied with Bu Tai and sent him back to Pingyang to appease the Xianbei people. Shi Le suspected that Bu Tai and Liu Yao had a conspiracy and wanted to compel Jin Zhun to surrender. However, his generals argued, "If we kill Bu Tai now, Jin Zhun will surely refuse to surrender. It would be wiser to allow Bu Tai to announce the alliance with the Han Dynasty in the city, so that we can all launch a joint attack on Jin Zhun. Jin Zhun will undoubtedly be intimidated and surrender swiftly!" After considerable deliberation, Shi Le ultimately consented to his generals' proposal and allowed Bu Tai to depart.
Butai arrived in Pingyang, and along with Jin Zhun's subordinates, Qiao Tai, Ma Zhong, and others, they rose up in arms to attack Jin Zhun, killed him, and proclaimed Jin Ming as their leader. They then sent Butai and Buxuan with the imperial seal to present to Liu Yao. Shi Le, furious, sent Shi Yangsheng to Pingyang to question Jin Ming about Jin Zhun's death. In his rage, Jin Ming killed Yangsheng. Shi Le became even angrier and personally led his troops to attack Jin Ming. Jin Ming engaged in battle but was defeated by Shi Le, with bodies piled up for two miles across the battlefield. Jin Ming quickly retreated into the city to defend it and did not dare to fight again. Shi Le sent his Chief Historian Wang Xiu to report the victory to Liu Yao. Zhou Jian, the Interior Minister of Pengcheng during the Jin Dynasty, killed Zhou Mo, the Interior Minister of Pei County, and then surrendered both Pengcheng and Pei County to Shi Le. Shi Jilong led the troops from Youzhou and Jizhou to assist Shi Le in his attack on Pingyang. Liu Yao sent General Liu Chang to rescue Jin Ming. Shi Le ordered to temporarily abandon the attack on Pingyang and stationed at Puban. Jin Ming led the Pingyang army to flee to Liu Yao, who then fled west to Suyi. Shi Le set the palace in Pingyang ablaze, then sent Pei Xian and Shi Hui to restore the tombs of Liu Yuanhai and Liu Cong, burying over a hundred bodies, among them Liu Can, and finally relocated the celestial globe and musical instruments to Xiangguo.
Liu Yao sent his envoy Guo Si to present the edicts to the Grand Commandant, appointing him Grand General, promoting him to King of Zhao, and expanding his fief to seven more commanderies, in addition to the previous twenty. When he traveled, he had an escort, wore a twelve-tassel crown, rode a golden-axle chariot, and drove six horses, just as Cao Cao did while assisting the Han Dynasty. His wife was entitled Queen, and his son was entitled Crown Prince. Cao Pingle of the Le She remained behind to serve Liu Yao and informed him, "The Grand Marshal sent Wang Xiu to you, appearing very respectful, but in reality, probing the strength of your army. It’s likely that after Wang Xiu returns, he will recklessly strike at your entourage." By that time, Liu Yao’s power had definitely waned, and he was afraid that Wang Xiu would report back.
Liu Yao was very angry when he heard this, so he quickly chased Guo Si and the others back, killed Wang Xiu at Suyi, and stopped the appointment of Grand Chancellor. Liu Mao fled back and told Liu Le about Wang Xiu's death. Liu Le was furious and exterminated the entire Cao Pingle clan, posthumously honoring Wang Xiu with the title of Grand Minister. He also found out that the special rituals and official appointments had been stopped, which made him very angry. He ordered, "My brothers and I have been loyal to the Liu family and have fulfilled our duties as subjects. If it weren't for us, how could you have become emperor in the south! The foundation has been laid, and now you want to plot against me. The heavens do not help evildoers, and you will fall into Jin Zhun's hands. I am loyal to the monarch and should emulate the filial piety of Emperor Shun serving the blind musician. Therefore, I once again support and respect the monarch, seeking reconciliation as before. I did not expect you to be so wicked, killing the messengers who came to welcome me sincerely. The rise of an emperor makes no sense! The titles of King Zhao and Emperor Zhao were both earned by me. How can you limit the size of titles!" He then established the Bureau of Imperial Physicians, the Bureau of Ceremonials, and the Imperial Household, appointing the military advisor Chao Zan to oversee the repair of Zhengyang Gate. Not long after, the city gate collapsed, and Liu Le, in great anger, killed Chao Zan. Later, Liu Le regretted the hasty execution and posthumously honored him with a coffin and mourning clothes, appointing him as Grand Master of Ceremonies. General Zuti attacked Chen Chuan at Pengguan, and Shi Jilong went to rescue Chen Chuan. Zuti retreated to Liangguo to be stationed, and Shi Jilong sent Yangwu Left Attendant Su to attack him. Liu Le also established more than ten elementary schools such as Xuanwen, Xuanjiao, Chongru, and Chongxun near the four gates of Xiangguo, selecting over a hundred generals, aides, and sons of wealthy families to study there, and arranging guards to protect them. He also set up the Bureau of Pottery and Ceramics and minted a large quantity of currency.
The Xianbei rebel Riliuyan in Hexi was defeated by Shi Jilong in Shuofang, resulting in 20,000 enemy soldiers killed, over 30,000 captured, and more than 100,000 cattle and horses seized. At the same time, Kong Chang pacified the rebellions in various counties of Youzhou. Meanwhile, Duan Pidi's soldiers dispersed due to hunger, forcing him to abandon his wife and children and flee to Shao Xu. Cao Yi sent envoys to propose a marriage alliance with Shi Le, bringing numerous gifts and requesting to establish a boundary along the Yellow River. Tao Bao arrived at Pengguan, prompting Zu Ti to retreat to Huainan. Shi Le also relocated over 5,000 households from Chenchuan to Guangzong.
Shi Le, together with Zhang Jing, Zhang Bin, and over 100 other generals, urged him to proclaim himself emperor. In response, Shi Le wrote a letter stating, "My conduct is shallow, and I have received such great favor. I am cautious every day and do not dare to proclaim myself emperor lightly, inviting ridicule from everyone! Although the power of King Wen of Zhou was strong, he still submitted to the Yin Dynasty; even if Duke Huan of Qi dominated one region, he still respected the Zhou Dynasty. Moreover, the current situation of our country is better than that of the Yin and Zhou dynasties. How dare I compare myself to King Wen and Duke Huan! Stop this discussion immediately and do not make a fuss! Whoever dares to mention this matter again will be mercilessly killed!" Thus, the matter of proclaiming emperor was dropped.
Shi Le issued a decree saying, "After the great chaos in the world, the laws are too complex. Important laws should be sorted out and simplified into easy-to-implement regulations." He ordered the legal historian Guan Zhi to compile the "Xinhai System," totaling 5,000 words, which was in effect for over a decade before the new laws were officially adopted. Additionally, Xu Gan, the Prefect of Tai Shan in the Jin Dynasty, defected and surrendered to Shi Le.
Shi Jilong and the other 129 people, including officials like Zhang Jing, Zhang Bin, Zhang Qu Liu, and Cheng Xia, jointly submitted a memorial, stating: "We have heard that in order to achieve remarkable achievements, one must have extraordinary strategies; in order to achieve remarkable achievements, one must do extraordinary things. Therefore, the decline of the Xia, Shang, and Zhou dynasties, the rise and fall of the Five Hegemons during the Spring and Autumn period, and the difficulty of maintaining a peaceful and prosperous era show that only those monarchs who have accomplished great deeds can be compared to enlightened rulers. We believe Your Highness is born wise and has fulfilled destiny. Your governance of the realm and support of the imperial cause have led to a thriving and auspicious environment under your reign, just like the alternating sun and moon. Everyone is eager for you to replace the Liu clan and ascend the throne as emperor, with at least a 90% approval among the populace. Now that the world is peaceful, with no unusual celestial signs and the southern barbarians submitting, both heaven and man await your ascension. It's time for you to ascend the throne as emperor and allow your followers to reap the rewards. We suggest you emulate Liu Bei in Shu and Cao Cao in Ye by establishing the state of Zhao, which comprises eleven counties such as Henei, Weijun, Jijun, Dunqiu, Pingyuan, Qinghe, Julu, Changshan, Zhongshan, Changle, and Leping, along with thirteen counties from the former Zhao kingdom, including Guangping, Yangping, Zhangwu, Bohai, Hejian, Shangdang, Dingxiang, Fanyang, Yuyang, Wuyi, Yan, and Leling, totaling twenty-four counties with a population of 290,000. The original fiefdoms will still serve as internal territories, in accordance with the standards set forth in the 'Tribute of Yu' and Cao Cao's restoration of the Jizhou territory, extending south to Mengjin, west to Longmen, east to the Yellow River, and north to the borderlands. Appoint the Grand Chanyu to oversee the various southern tribes. Cancel the provinces of Bingzhou, Shuozhou, and Sizhou, and set up appropriate departments to oversee them. We humbly urge you to heed the will of heaven and fulfill the people's wishes!" Then, five individuals facing west declined, while four facing south also declined, and all officials bowed and pleaded, before Shi Le ultimately agreed.
