Emperor Wu of Liang's seventh son, named Xiao Yi, style name Shi Cheng, also known by his nickname Qi Fu. He was born on the 8th day of the 8th month in the 7th year of the Tianjian era. At the age of thirteen, he was granted the title of Prince of Xiandong, with a fief consisting of two thousand households. He initially served as the General of Ningyuan and the Prefect of Kuaiji, before moving to the capital to take on roles such as Palace Attendant, General of Proclamation, and Intendant of Danyang. In the seventh year of Emperor Wen's reign, he was dispatched as the Commissioner and Commander of military affairs for the six provinces of Jing, Xiang, Ying, Yi, Ning, and Nan Liang, with his official rank continually rising. In the fourth year of Emperor Zhongdaotong's reign, he was promoted to General Who Pacifies the West; in the first year of Emperor Datong's reign, he was promoted to General Who Maintains the West; three years later, he was further promoted to General Who Guards the West. In the fifth year, he returned to the capital to take up the position of General Who Maintains the Right, General Who Guards the Army, and was responsible for the military operations at Shitou Garrison. In the sixth year, he was sent out again to serve as the Commissioner, Commander of military affairs in Jiangzhou, General Who Guards the South, and Governor of Jiangzhou. In the first year of Taiqing, he was appointed Commissioner, Commander of military affairs in the nine provinces of Jing, Yong, Xiang, Si, Ying, Ning, Liang, Nan, and Bei Qin, General Who Guards the West, and Governor of Jingzhou, with an even broader jurisdiction.
In the third year of the third month, Hou Jing captured the capital city of Jiankang. In the fourth month, the Crown Prince's Attendant Xiao Shao arrived in Jiangling, bringing the emperor's secret edict appointing Xiao Yi as the Palace Attendant, Acting General with the Yellow Battle-axe, Commander-in-Chief of all military affairs inside and outside the capital, and Minister of Education, with other official positions remaining unchanged. Later that month, Xiao Yi attempted to recruit soldiers in Xiangzhou, but Governor Wang Yu refused to dispatch any troops. On the sixth day of the sixth month, Xiao Yi sent the Crown Prince Xiao Fang and others to lead the army to attack Wang Yu, which ended in defeat and led to his death. In the seventh month, Xiao Yi sent General Bao Quan to attack Wang Yu. On the ninth day of the ninth month, the Inspector of Yongzhou, Prince Chacha, rebelled and attacked Jiangling, but Xiao Yi defended the city. On that day, Chacha's generals, Du Ye, his brother, and Yang Hun, all surrendered to Xiao Yi. Chacha fled on the ninth day of the ninth month. After Bao Quan's unsuccessful attack on Xiangzhou, Xiao Yi sent General Wang Senbian to take his place and lead another assault on the city. In the year 550 AD, the emperor continued to use the reign title of Taiqing for the fourth year. On the first day of the first month, which fell on the Xinhai day, General Wang Senbian presented thirty oranges with stems to the emperor. In the early days of the second month, the exact date is unclear; the Intendant of Hengyang, Zhou Hong, reported that a phoenix appeared in the Hengyang area. In the fifth month, Wang Senbian captured Xiangzhou, killed Wang Yu, and pacified Xiangzhou. In the sixth month, Prince Dakuan of Jiangxia, Prince Dacheng of Shanyang, and Prince Dafeng of Yidu, they had secretly fled from Anzhou to seek refuge with the court.
In September, the emperor appointed the former Governor of Yingshou, Nanping King Ke, as the General of the Central Guard, Minister of Works, and Supervisor of the Left. The Crown Prince Fangzhu was appointed as the Governor of Yingshou, and Wang Sengbian was appointed as the Commander of the Armed Forces. At the same time, the emperor appointed Da Kuan as the King of Linchuan, Da Cheng as the King of Guiyang, and Da Feng as the King of Runan. In that month, Ren Yue led troops to attack Xiyang and Wuchang. The court sent General Xu Wensheng of the Left Guard, General Yin Zichun of the Right Guard, Prince Xiao Huizheng of the Right Guard, and Governor Xi Wenxian of Sichuan to confront Ren Yue in Wuchang. Nanping King Ke was also appointed as the Governor of Jingzhou, where he was stationed in Wuling.
In November, Nanping King Ke, Da Kuan of Linchuan, Da Cheng of Guiyang, Cavalier Attendant Yuan Zheng, Marquis of Jiang'an, Left Guard General Zhang Wan, Left Chief Historian Tan, Minister of Works, and over a thousand officials from various prefectures and counties jointly submitted a memorial, the contents of which were...
I find Mount Song to be quite lofty, with clouds and mist shrouding the mountains and rivers, and the population of the nation is thriving, with many talented individuals like Shen Fu himself. Is this not a result of the emperor establishing a flourishing dynasty, valuing the throne as a precious treasure, spreading the teachings of sages and wise men throughout the land, and handling titles and artifacts with care? Therefore, the Grand Commandant assists the emperor just as Chonghua receives the yellow jade tally; the Minister of Works aids the Son of Heaven in governing the land just as Dayu receives the jade seal.
I believe that you, Your Majesty, are destined for greatness, endowed with extraordinary intelligence. Loyalty is your virtue, and filial piety is your inherent quality. You have inherited the outstanding qualities of your predecessors, ruling the country with the virtues of the Five Constants and maintaining harmony in society through the principles of the Seven Policies. You have dedicated yourself to the prosperity of the nation, achieving outstanding accomplishments. In the face of foreign invasions, you have demonstrated courage and fought valiantly, defeating enemies and quelling rebellions. Those who once sought rebellion now bow down to you, afraid to act rashly. Just as you did when you quelled the Wu and Chu rebellions, you have achieved victories without shedding blood. The Xiang River no longer floods, not because of the construction of Du Tao's works; the Xian Mountain no longer witnesses rebellion, not because of the capture of Liu Biao's cities. You have pacified the rebellion in Jiujiang, resolved disputes among various factions, and used warships to restore order in Jin County and Huo County. Pursuing the enemy through perilous terrain, while they lurked at the border with cavalry darkening the skies, you devised brilliant strategies to defeat them, scattering their forces and compelling their submission. The Liang and Han regions have submitted to you, as you conquered the Ba and Han regions with your sharp military prowess, demonstrating your valor and tactical prowess in battle. From the south to the Five Ridges, from the north to Liyuan, the eastern tribes no longer harbor resentment, and the western tribes have all submitted. Your influence extends across vast distances, commanding a million formidable soldiers, establishing you as the most revered figure in the realm and the acknowledged leader across the seas.
Nowadays, the sea is shimmering and the clouds are vibrant; the Kunlun Mountains are ablaze with beacon fires. Emperor Wen of Wei sighed at the prosperous era of music and celebration, while Emperor Xuan of Han reflected on the peaceful sights of the day. Under the balcony, people come to pay their respects; the streets are bustling with carriages and horses beside the Dream Lake. The wheat harvest comes from the Nanping area; the sweet dew descends upon Dangyang. Wild silkworms spin their own silk, without the need for imported silk; rice grows in barren fields, comparable to rain-fed corn. Isn't this a scene of prosperity and greatness? How could we not enshrine your achievements in history and display them on your chariot and attire?
In the past, the states of Jin and Zheng submitted to the Zhou Dynasty and were granted the title of ministers; Xiao He and Cao Cao assisted the Han Dynasty and served as prime ministers. A grand ceremony ought to be held to meet everyone's expectations. We have carefully consulted the classics and historical records, and once again, we humbly beseech you to accept the position of prime minister, lead all officials, issue edicts, and conduct ceremonies in accordance with tradition. You will hold a golden axe to eliminate evil, ride a jade chariot to stabilize the state; your merits will shine with the sun and moon, your integrity will merge with heaven and earth. You will resolve the crisis and govern the realm; isn’t this a truly remarkable opportunity? We are but humble servants, daring to present these requests.
The emperor asked, and I said, "It's been so many years; time passes by so quickly! Those evildoers have not been eliminated yet, and I have felt deeply troubled all this time. From the Grand Historian of the Zhou Dynasty to the Prime Minister of the Qin Dynasty, the jurisdiction extends east to the sea, west to the Yellow River, south to Zhu Yuan, and north to the frontier. As a lowly official, how could I dare to speak of promoting great virtues? How can I possibly compare to wise rulers like Duke Huan and Duke Wen? My ultimate goal is to bring some stability to the world, and then properly honor my ancestors. Although the words I say are based on the situation at that time, every sentence is true. The examples recorded in history are all about humility, and the Book of Changes advises humility and caution. Thinking of the examples of the predecessors, my heart is truly filled with a mix of emotions!"
On the day of Renchen in December, the emperor appointed Xiao Bo, the Prefect of Dingzhou, as the General of Zhen Nan and the Inspector of Guangzhou. He also dispatched Generals Yinyue, Wang Xun, and Du You'an to lead troops to Wuchang in support of Xu Wensheng.
In the year 550 AD, Emperor Wu of Liang, Xiao Yan, was still using the reign title of Taiqing for the fifth year, when it was actually already the second year of Dabao. On the day of Jihai in February, Northern Wei sent envoys to offer tribute to the Liang court. In March, Hou Jing led all his troops westward to join forces with Ren Yue's troops. On the day of Bingwu in the intercalary fourth month, Hou Jing sent his generals Song Zixian and Ren Yue to attack Yingzhou, capturing Xiao Fangzhu, the Inspector of Yingzhou. On the day of Wushen in the intercalary fourth month, Xu Wensheng, Yin Zichun, and others fled back to the imperial court, while Wang Xun, Yinyue, and Du Duo'an surrendered to Hou Jing. On the day of Gengxu in the intercalary fourth month, General Wang Sengbian stationed his troops at Baling. On the day of Jiazi in the intercalary fourth month, Hou Jing pressed on with his attack on Baling.
On the 19th day of the fifth month, Emperor Wu of Liang dispatched General Hu Sengyou and Governor of Xinzhou Lu Fahe to lead troops to support Baling. Ren Yue was defeated in battle, causing Hou Jing to flee. Emperor Wu of Liang appointed Wang Sengbian as General of the East, Chief of the Imperial Secretariat, Prefect of the Masters of Writing; Hu Sengyou as General of the Armed Forces; and Lu Fahe as General of the Guard. He ordered Sengbian to lead the troops to pursue Hou Jing, winning battles along the way. On the 7th day of the eighth month, Sengbian arrived near Pengcheng. On the 22nd day of the eighth month, Emperor Wu of Liang appointed General of the Southern Campaign, Governor of Xiangzhou Xiao Fangju as General of the Guards; Grand Commandant, General of the Southern Campaign, Prince of Nanping Xiao Ke was promoted to General of the Southern Campaign, retaining his position as Governor of Xiangzhou. On the 9th day of the ninth month, Emperor Wu of Liang appointed General of the East, Chief of the Imperial Secretariat, Prefect of the Masters of Writing Wang Sengbian as Governor of Jiangzhou, with other positions remaining unchanged. The Panpan kingdom presented a trained elephant. On the 25th day of the tenth month, the first day of the month, purple clouds appeared like a canopy, enveloping the sky above Jiangling city. In this month, Emperor Wu of Liang, Xiao Yan, passed on. Grand Preceptor, General of the East, Chief of the Imperial Secretariat, Governor of Jiangzhou, Prefect of the Masters of Writing, Marquis of Changning Wang Sengbian and others submitted a memorial.
Ah, as our army marched on, when we reached Jiushui, Lincheng County sent word that Hou Jing, that vile scoundrel, had actually killed the emperor and also the crown prince. The imperial family and their relatives are all at the mercy of the bandits, all enduring great suffering. Upon hearing this news, all the soldiers wept inconsolably; the stars in the sky seemed to have shifted, this is truly a catastrophe! Reflecting on our Great Liang Dynasty, from Emperor Wenzu to the present, we have followed the teachings of Yao and Shun, and inherited the foundation of the Shang and Tang dynasties. Emperor Wenzu unified the Qi region and established the foundation of the six provinces; Emperor Wu, wise and martial, pacified the world, governing the country with the regularity of the sun and moon, controlling the world as stable as mastering the six directions. The nation has remained prosperous and peaceful, all thanks to the virtues accumulated by our ancestors! But now, this Hou Jing, this vile scoundrel dares to rebel! In the past, the humiliation suffered by Chang He of the Han Dynasty, and the suspicion faced by Xiang Wei of the Wei Dynasty, were nothing compared to what is happening now; the palace has suddenly faced such a great disaster, the noble lineage has all turned into restless spirits! Oh heavens, what is going on?
Your Majesty, it is said that after the loss of a monarch, a new ruler must be established, as recorded in the Spring and Autumn Annals; to govern the country with virtue for a long time has always been the teaching of the ancient kings. After Shaokang took the throne, he pacified the people and performed sacrifices to Heaven and Earth, allowing the Xia Dynasty to continue; after King Ping moved east, the legacy of the Zhou Dynasty was able to endure. Emperor Guangwu of Han revived the Han Dynasty by punishing the wicked; Emperor Zhongzong stabilized Jiangdong by not going against the opinions of the people. Looking back on history now, we only have these two paths to take. I earnestly implore Your Majesty: you are filial, kind, wise, and decisive. You can bear the heavy responsibility for the country in times of crisis, create a prosperous era of wise rule, and become the leader of all kings. You must take decisive action to quell rebellion, even if the path is fraught with difficulties; you must follow the ancient ways, organize the army, and govern the country. With the state and family affairs reaching this critical point, Heaven will surely bless Daliang, and we shall find a new monarch! The Xuanyuan clan has only two heirs left: our ancestor Gaozu and you, the rightful heir! Like Qu Wan of the past, you can unite the feudal lords; like Ziwu, you can inherit the great throne. Your achievements spread throughout the world, your virtues can aid the people; who else but you can inherit the great achievements of the late emperor?
I have heard that the sun and moon shine brightly, and the sun cannot fail to shine even for a day; the laws of heaven and earth are clear, and the way of Heaven cannot remain in turmoil for long. The Emperor's yellow palace and left banner are noble for the sake of the millions; the Emperor's phoenix carriage and dragon banner are magnificent for the purpose of honoring Heaven and Earth. Precious items must be placed in the safest place, and important stones must be handled carefully and should not be moved lightly. How can the common people survive without a ruler? How can the ancestral temple be without a master even for a day?
Therefore, Your Majesty, we hope you can ascend the throne quickly and change the current situation. The situation is urgent and dangerous now; the realm is in chaos. There's no need for a decree from the Minister of Rites or the selection of an auspicious day by the scholars. All you need to do is sit facing south to claim your noble status, and stand facing west to showcase your virtue. Once the realm knows that you have ascended the throne, the eight hundred lords can celebrate together. The remaining rebels are hiding, their weapons concealed among the people. The Qian hexagram has fallen, and the Kun hexagram has been overturned; the realm is in chaos. Hurry to eliminate the reckless men, burn down the rebels' camps, completely pacify the realm, build a mausoleum for the late emperor, and clear the palace of its gloom, so that the royal family's prosperity can continue. "The millet is scattered, what can be said about it?" this sight is truly heartbreaking! Your Majesty, inheriting the great achievements of the late emperor and continuing the glory of the ancestors, you should return to the former capital of Chu. The system of the Left Temple and Right Shrine can be temporarily retained; the ceremonies of the Five Rites and Six Music can be held on time. Auspicious signs frequently appear in the palace, with golden stalks and nine stems, and three ridges of jade thatch. Strengthen the defense; let the guards and officials coordinate with each other. You can receive foreign envoys in the temple hall, observe the celestial phenomena on the Lingtai, participate in the Chanrang at Liangfu Mountain, the Fengshan at Mount Tai, and the sun worship at the East Sea. Then, you can discuss city and local affairs with the three great officials. The left bank of Luoyang is the Chan River, the right bank is the Jian River, with the Luo River in between; it is a good place to live. The palaces in the old capital are magnificent; only the emperor is worthy of residing there. Why bother to build another capital? We are deeply grateful and moved, and thus we present this report to Your Majesty.
The emperor has passed away, and the court will be suspended for three days. All officials are dressed in white mourning attire. The emperor said: "I lack the ability, and heaven has sent down calamities. I find it hard to eat or sleep, filled with sorrow and regret. This blow is too great, and the past is too painful to look back on; the current grief is a multitude of sorrows. I heard about the misfortune that has befallen Bosheng (Wang Sengbian), and I am even deeper than the sorrow of Zhongmou (Zhuge Liang). Now that those rebellious individuals have been eliminated, I am thinking of emulating Yanling Jizi and retiring to let others take over, learning from Zizang's noble character. Why would I need a grand coronation or care about the stones that symbolize the throne? Hou Jing is akin to Xiang Yu, while Xiao Dong resembles King Zhou of Shang. Liu Bang called himself the King of Han before he became emperor, and King Wu of Zhou called himself the Crown Prince before becoming emperor. Who would dare claim they can easily achieve such a supreme position? My followers are all engaged in heated discussions. Ministers, you need to understand my intentions clearly; please do not misinterpret them!"
Nanping King Ke, with over fifty royal family members, General Hu Sengyou with over two hundred officials, and Zhang Yi, the deputy magistrate of Jiangzhou, with over three hundred commoners, all submitted petitions urging the emperor to ascend the throne. The emperor continued to refuse. On the 11th of November, Wang Sengbian once again submitted a memorial:
The Purple Palace stands empty, the world is without an emperor, and all sorts of birds are fluttering anxiously, while all countries hope for the emperor's return. Although everyone supports each other, returning together to Jingbo, singing praises, and heading to Tang Jiao, they are still worried that Your Majesty will bow down and weep, humbly declining the throne. The emperor's chariot is on its way, so proceed with caution; do not follow the example of Song Chang, who rebelled. The emperor's retinue is prepared, and you must not be like Geng Chun, who offered misguided counsel. The people eagerly await Your Majesty's return. I heard that when the stars fade, the lightning flashes and thunder roars, that is heaven; when the mountains are towering and the clouds are swirling, that is the earth. Everything in heaven and earth is created by the changes of yin and yang, and it is the sage who can create all things! So it is said that "the highest virtue of heaven and earth lies in nurturing all beings, and the greatest treasure of the sage is the throne." Living in the imperial palace was not something you wanted; occupying a lofty position is a response to destiny and a call to duty. I hope Your Majesty will seriously consider history and have foresight like the heroes of ancient times. If compared to Zhou Dan, he is the son of King Wen; if compared to Fang Xun, he is the heir of Emperor Zhi. The rise and fall of a thousand years are right in front of us. The palace lies in ruins, and the ceremonial vessels are upturned; it is Your Majesty's rightful claim to inherit the throne! How can we let the Red Eyebrow Army establish another little emperor and let Kui Xiao occupy the high temple? Your Majesty should now accept the throne calmly and remain humble. Those rebels forge documents and slander the rightful authority, waiting for an opportunity to act; their intentions are very clear. Without divination, without looking at tortoise shells, you can know their conspiracy. Recently, the court officials have been derelict in their duties, disasters have struck, Hou Jing has rebelled, treacherous officials are in power, and rebellions are everywhere, with voices advising the emperor to kill the emperor of the Jin Dynasty. At night, the sound of drums and the blaze of fires fills the air. The court officials looked at each other, all filled with sadness; the righteous forces from Liangzhou gaze eastward, weeping bitterly; the common people do not know what to do! Your Majesty is wise and martial, with deep foresight; you have shed tears and wielded your sword. You have the strategies to govern the country and will surely formulate plans that can win thousands of miles from within the tent. Sound the spirit turtle's drum, raise the flag of the Cuihua, lead the troops of the six states, and attack the Jiubo; even if there are dangers from all directions, one battle can dominate. Kill the rebels and achieve great victories; those rebels are all treacherous villains, and there are countless examples in history, with rebellions occurring every month. Since the waves were calmed on Dongting Lake and the waters of Penglai Lake settled down, Wen Zhao and Wu Mu's merits are as fragrant as pepper and orchids. The enemy countries surrendered, and peace is like relatives; the world returns to the heart, all paths advance together, and national disgrace and family hatred will soon be avenged. The state will not decline; all rely on Your Majesty's wisdom. Now is the time, and you should not follow the example of Emperor Ku's humility. When the danger has reached this point, you should not follow the example of Tai Bo's retreat. The country has loyal ministers; who dares to obey the decree? The world belongs to Emperor Gaozu of Han; Your Majesty is the hope of the people. How can the world be without a monarch? How can Gaozu abolish sacrifices? The five stars are shining brightly, the winds are coming from all directions, the clouds are swirling, the sun and moon shine brightly, and the officials are acting in an orderly manner, with military and political affairs in order. The warships are floating on the water; the iron horses and silver saddles are crossing mountains and ridges. The valiant soldiers spur one another on; in order to repay the emperor's grace, they are even prepared to sacrifice their families. They all hold shields, majestic and imposing, waving axes, charging into battle, unstoppable, annihilating the enemy. Now we await Your Majesty to pray to the earth, sincerely worship the gods, widely issue decrees, set out with a name, the five elements return to their positions, and the army sets out. You should fully exert the power of the judge, thoroughly eliminate the enemy, capture Shi Zhao, recover the imperial seal, eliminate Yao Qin, recover the bells and tripods, repair the tombs, and welcome the ancestral temple. How can Your Majesty turn a blind eye to the nation's pressing matters and not listen to the people's requests? After Emperor Xuan of Han ascended the throne, he sent troops to attack the Pu class; after Emperor Guangwu ascended the throne, he achieved victory in Chang'an. From these examples, there is precedent. We, the courtiers, some have received the emperor's grace for generations, some have been entrusted with heavy responsibilities; we share weal and woe, life and death. If we are loyal, we dare to defend the country with our lives. We are grateful and in tears; we humbly submit this petition.
Emperor Shizu replied: "I understand; let me add a couple more points. I’ve heard that Heaven created the people and appointed monarchs to show its grace and govern them. Before the times of Sheti and Heluo, and beyond Lulu and Lili, no written records have been passed down, so we can’t verify it. From the Battle of Banquan demonstrating military achievements to the region of Danling showcasing literary virtues, the people have been there, the state has existed, either becoming the subject of songs and praises or receiving the blessings of Heaven. I have experienced many family difficulties; the great shame has yet to be avenged, the traitor Chiyou has not been eliminated, and the Hushi clan, who share our surname, has not submitted. I often lie awake in bed, pondering how to respond to Heaven's grace and how to carry on the great legacy of our ancestors. Once the rebellion is quelled and the criminals are punished, we can make sacrifices to Emperor Yu and offer to Heaven, then we can discuss the matter of ascending the throne." At that time, powerful enemies still existed, and Emperor Shizu did not plan to ascend the throne immediately, but officials from all corners kept coming to urge him to ascend. So Emperor Shizu ordered: "The Da Zhuang hexagram rides on the Qian hexagram, while the Ming Yi hexagram hangs its wings; the stars change rapidly, the laws have changed several times, vassals from all directions have sent envoys multiple times to advise, and ministers in the court have also submitted memorials. Qiao County and Pei County have not yet been recovered, the tombs of our ancestors are still there forever. I can’t sleep at night and I’m anxious all day; what right do I have, what face do I have, to enjoy this peace and prosperity? From now on, all memorials urging my ascension will be halted, and anyone who dares to submit such a memorial will face the consequences." That day, the traitor Sikong, Liu Shenmao, the Grand Master of the Southeastern Road, led Yitong Liu Guiyi and Liu Yiyi to request surrender.
In the third year of Dabao, the Emperor continued to use the sixth year of the Taiqing era. On the Jiaxu day of the first month, the Emperor ordered: "The country is facing many challenges, and the war has not yet ceased. Although the army is strong, the people need to feel secure. Now is a time marked by auspicious celestial signs that promise good fortune for the year ahead; spring has also arrived, and all things are reviving. Moreover, agricultural production is at a critical period, with peach blossoms in full bloom and apricot flowers falling, the people need peace of mind to focus on farming. It is urgent to change customs and comfort the people; we must also encourage ourselves in farming and combat. Do we want to hoard food like swallows storing up for winter in the cold valleys? Do we want to just sit back and eat what we have without planting, waiting for the cicadas to sing in autumn? We should actively promote thorough and careful farming practices, let the people farm in peace, we must not waste labor and should allocate land resources wisely. All provinces and counties must implement this strictly." The Emperor appointed General Zhiwu and Intendant of Nanping, Wang Bao, as the Minister of Personnel.
In the second month, Wang Sengbian led a large army from Xunyang. The Emperor quickly issued orders to inform all directions:
It is said that the world is in turmoil, with disasters following one after another, like a fierce struggle between dragons and tigers. Only by standing for justice can we ultimately prevail and suppress the rebellion. Those who indulge in pleasure and disrupt the court will ultimately meet failure; while those who are loyal and righteous can accomplish great deeds. This is why Yi and Jiao from the Xia Dynasty met their demise, and Wang Mang and Liu Xiu from the Xin Dynasty were also executed. This is why Huan and Wen of the Zhou Dynasty could restore their power, and Wen and Tao of the Jin Dynasty were able to realize their grand ambitions.
The Liang Dynasty ruled for more than fifty years, unified the country, and its grace and favor spread across the realm. They nurtured the people with benevolence, punished the disobedient with justice. From the Yi River to the Chan River, everyone admired the teachings of the Liang Dynasty; the Zhuo and Wei Rivers flowed in accordance with the Liang Dynasty. The Liang Dynasty army raised the Green Phoenix flag high, six dragons exuding a formidable aura; the sound of the Lingtuo drum commanded the respect of all spirits. Wise ministers such as Feng, Mu, Fang, and Shao, and renowned generals like Wei Qing, Huo Qubing, Xin Qiji, and Zhao Yun, along with elite troops like the Feathered Forest Army and the Tiger Elite Army, their might shook the very mountains and rivers.
From north of Tongbai Mountain to south of Guzhu Country, from east of Jieshi Mountain to west of Liusha, everyone bowed down and pledged allegiance. The nomads dared not let their horses graze, the Qin people dared not bend their bows and shoot arrows. The world was peaceful, the people lived in peace and contentment, even ten Yao and Shun figures could not rival the prosperity of the Liang Dynasty. However, the traitorous minister Hou Jing, this Xiongnu rebel, cruelly incited war, the sound of battle drums echoed incessantly. He occupied the empty city of Xuanhu, then captured the important strategic location of Shou Chun, taking cities and lands in the span of just a month. He opened the granaries of Hailing, aided the people, yet squandered the national treasury, displaying greed and excess. He audaciously raised troops in rebellion, posing a threat to the capital.
The treacherous minister Hou Jing impeded the army, cruel and tyrannical. He had grievances with the officials in Jiangzhou and fled to the Khan's territory. His crimes were recorded, and the soul of Peng Sheng (the wronged person) has not found peace; his insatiable greed has drawn the same condemnation as that of Jing Qing (the criticized person). He is like a tiger that has sprouted wings, recruiting soldiers and horses everywhere, harming the people, and separating brothers. Therefore, I led elite soldiers, clad in armor, wielding frosty blades. At sunrise, our army set out, the dragon riders covering the plains, our momentum surged like a rainbow, our determination rushing like a river, our anger chilling like a cold wind.
The enemy was intimidated by our momentum, surrendering one after another, begging for their lives. After the fighting had subsided, we returned to the capital to regroup the army. However, Hou Jing remained unrepentant, mobilizing troops once more to attack Wangwu Mountain and Xiangwei. The Zongzhang Pavilion had ceased to be a place of justice, and the Ganquan Palace was no longer a summer resort. Hou Jing was overbearing, controlling the court, falsely claiming the mandate of heaven, forging documents, increasing taxes, plundering the people, causing them to be displaced, corpses strewn across the fields, travelers on the road exchanging glances, officials remaining silent. He indiscriminately killed the innocent, arbitrarily rewarded and punished, leaving the elderly, weak, women, and children destitute, the people struggling to survive. Slaves could be rewarded for five generations, while high-ranking officials were executed for three generations. Food prices soared, and the people turned on each other. The common people suffered unbearable pain, mourning everywhere. In Yanshi to the south, the scene of abundance was no longer there, while Mongolian tents appeared in Heyang to the north. The bamboo on the southern mountain and the rabbits on the western mountain could not capture the extent of his evil.
Chen Ying from the outer watch reported that the late emperor has died, and the palace is filled with grief. I am heartbroken, my insides feel shattered. Hou Jing's crimes are countless, and I am ashamed. His atrocities have led to severe famine, and the people have been displaced. He invaded our Pengli Marsh, seized our Yingdu, occupied our Jiangxia, and attacked our Baqiu. Therefore, I led the soldiers bravely to fight the enemy, in loyalty to our country. The number of enemies we killed is countless, and blood flowed like rivers on the battlefield. Ren Yue surrendered in Annan, Hua Ren surrendered in Hankou, Zi Xian begged for surrender in Yanying, and Xi Rong was defeated in Chaisang. Hou Jing fled in all directions, like ten mice scrambling for a hole. Guo Mo, Qing Yi, and Jin Xi all surrendered to us, and Hou Jing was ultimately defeated and killed. Bi, Yuan, Feng, Xun, and other places have been liberated from the chaos of war, and Fan, Jiang, Xing, Mao, and other places have also been pacified. Can this be tolerated?
Our army has occupied the upper reaches of the Yangtze River, a key area separating the north and south. The soldiers are eager to fight to the death. The Zhou Dynasty relied on the Jin and Zheng states, while the Han Dynasty relied on the Xu and Mou clans. Those were just small vassal states, yet they could do this, let alone our powerful Liang Dynasty. As subjects and citizens, it is our duty to protect our homeland. Everyone believes that the banner of righteousness has been raised; we must unite, elect a commander-in-chief, and stand together against the enemy. Although I am not capable, I must shoulder this heavy responsibility. In times of national crisis, I cannot afford to slack off for even a moment. I will do everything in my power to punish the traitors, risking my life to battle courageously.
I led a vast army of elite troops from Jing Mountain, crossed Pengli Marsh, advancing by water and land, and set our sights on Jianye from the south and north. People from all walks of life rallied to our cause, providing us with supplies. The thunder boomed and the winds howled as our army aimed straight for Jianye. I roared in fury, making the rivers run backwards; I waved a long spear, dimming the sunlight. Our unstoppable army charged into Jianye from all directions, scattering the enemy. Our soldiers were incredibly brave, galloping like steeds, soaring like eagles. We were invincible, unstoppable. Even if the enemy were as venomous as a bee, fighting to the end, our strong army was bound to win. Furthermore, with the right timing and favorable circumstances, we had the absolute advantage; therefore, our military campaign is just and righteous—what wrong have we committed?
I am now dispatching envoys to appoint Wang Sengbian as Grand Commander, General Who Conquers the East, Supervisor of the Palace Library, Governor of Jiangzhou, Prefect of the Masters of Writing, and Marquis of Changning County, leading a hundred thousand troops straight to Jinling. The war drums thundered and weapons clashed, while crimson flags fluttered high in the sunset, as magnificent as the dawn; warships moved at night, surging like the sea. The remnants of Hou Jing's forces pose no threat. The virtuous are sidelined while the wicked hold power; we will swiftly eliminate them. We will completely destroy the enemy; it is only a matter of time. Hou Jing will face severe consequences; the common people are innocent; we will not blame them.
Ministers, some of you are loyal and upright, holding high positions, enjoying wealth and honor; some of you serve in the royal court, yet you stand by helplessly while Hou Jing commits his atrocities—do you not feel ashamed?
In March, Wang Sengbian and his men quelled the rebellion of Hou Jing and sent his head to Jiangling. On Wuzi day, the court held sacrificial rites at the Mingtang and Taishé, announcing the good news of the rebels' defeat. The next day, Jichou, Wang Sengbian and his men submitted another memorial to the court.
The following is the text of the memorial submitted by Wang Sengbian and his men, but the specific contents are not provided, so it cannot be translated into modern spoken Chinese. The content of the memorial should have detailed the process of quelling the rebellion of Hou Jing, the achievements in the battle, and the subsequent actions taken, etc. In short, they reported the results of the war to the court again.
The troops gathered in Jiankang on Wuzi day this month. The enemy was driven into a corner like trapped animals; we attacked them repeatedly and defeated them time and again. They exhausted all their tricks and deceit and could only shrink behind their fortified positions. We divided our forces and launched attacks from all sides, with cavalry, infantry, shields, weapons, and a million-strong army, unstoppable like King Wu of Zhou in his campaign against King Zhou of Shang, like Xiang Yu during his siege; the enemy was routed, and the bandits were vanquished. The people in the capital cheered, and food and drink prices in Chang'an skyrocketed. Peace was restored throughout the country, the realm enjoyed peace, and the people rejoiced with joy!
I hope Your Majesty can bear this sorrow and rise above the anger. Since the fires of war have erupted near the Forbidden City and the Imperial Palace, with relentless battles along the borders, we have been training our troops through our tears, swearing to take revenge. However, the states of Wu and Chu have colluded with seven others in rebellion; the slanders from Guan Shu, Cai Shu, and others have incited chaos among the Three Supervisors. The rebel forces in Xiliang are blocked by the formidable Qin army, unable to advance; the refugees from Bianzhou crossed Feihu Mountain, but have vanished without a trace. We face numerous formidable enemies; this turmoil has persisted for five years. Having finally achieved victory, avenged our wrongs, and restored our honor after this protracted campaign, words cannot capture the enormity of it! In accordance with tradition, we have restored the ancestral temples and dispatched envoys to the ancestral tombs across the nation. After Your Majesty's passing, with the coffin still not buried, the court is enveloped in darkness, leaving everything uncertain. We are fully prepared for the funeral rites. The entire nation is engulfed in deep mourning, with soldiers from all six armies weeping. Your Majesty, ever filial and benevolent, must be utterly devastated.
Recently, all officials have been praying for Your Majesty's wisdom. Your achievements in bestowing jade and returning to the right path, the rituals associated with jade should rightfully belong to a wise ruler; however, your edicts are humble and unassuming, making it difficult to grasp. A flying dragon can ascend to the sky, and the fourth line of the hexagram Qian is also there; the gates of heaven are tightly shut, yet the palace gates remain unopened. We have offered songs and tributes repeatedly, yet we can only wait in anticipation. Therefore, the Yue people persistently seek their king, and the Zhou people gladly return. If the Han king does not declare himself emperor, he cannot recognize his loyal subjects; Emperor Guangwu ceased the posthumous honors for King Xiao, is it merely to uphold the ancestral temples and altars? The Yellow Emperor traveled to Xiangcheng to inspect the ways of governing the country; the Yao Emperor toured Mount Gushan to ensure orderly sacrificial activities. These unforeseen events are not what the sages desire, yet they are inevitable for the emperor. We have read your edicts, pondered your intentions, but it is difficult to fathom your thoughts. Your Majesty's regal presence was evident during the pacification of the Qi state; auspicious signs arose in due course. Your vast knowledge is unmatched, your profound insights are admirable. Your loyalty and filial piety move heaven and earth, combined with your wisdom and martial prowess; if you were to give the order, the Battle of Danpu could be averted, and if you paid attention, the Battle of Banquan could be quelled. When the earth's axis breaks and reconnects, and when the heavenly pillar falls and is raised once more. You carved a river at Mengmen, allowing the hundred rivers to flow freely once more; you mended the celestial phenomena with five-colored stones, and life began to flourish again.
Even if you want to take off your court robes, travel to Mount Guangcheng, climb Mount Tai, and head east, who can the courtiers appeal to? To whom should the people turn for peace? Not to mention the worship of the gods; the ancient rites have been reinstated, and the fasting palace and the purification temple have not displayed the sacrificial items. We look up to the imperial carriage, day and night hoping, eagerly longing for your presence; we are already desperate for your presence. How can we prolong the people's concerns and violate the etiquette? The ancient rites have been reinstated, Hangu Pass and Luoyang have been pacified. Gaonu and Liyang, though the palaces lie in ruins, the Wei River is clear, and the auspicious spirit still lingers. Gaomen is magnificent, Ganquan Palace is open, using a soil gnomon to measure the sun's shadow, and the immortals receive the sweet dew. This is the center of the Nine Provinces, the heart of the realm. The scholars return with their books, moving slowly, and the Ministry of Rites has completed the arrangements for the ceremonies. How can we not raise the flag of Qingming and go to the capital, riding in a magnificent carriage to the palace? After the Eastern Zhou relocated its capital, Haojing never recovered; when chaos befell Chang'an, Luoyang was left in ruins forever. The Xia Dynasty was revered by vassal states from across the realm, and King Wen of Zhou stabilized the world with six states. We occupy a hundred miles of land, hold a three-foot sword, and use the broken Chu land to resist the nine tribes; with a single army, we vanquished three rebel factions. The world is peaceful, and we return to the Eastern Capital in a royal carriage. We rest the army in Jizhou and feed the war horses in Qiaojun. Reflecting on history, how many have achieved this? We are in accordance with the will of Heaven; what is there to lament? All of the above is true; we humbly request your approval, Your Majesty.
The Prime Minister replied, "After reading the memorial, I have added some further details. All the officials and ministers, as well as the hundreds of millions of people, believe that this is a gift from heaven, and the people's loyalty has returned, so they have entrusted the throne solely to me. Wen Shu's appointment as the General of the Jinwu Guard is in line with his previous wishes; Mengde's appointment as the General of the West Expedition also fulfills the previous prophecy. Although the formidable enemy in the Huaihai region has surrendered, the rebel army in Xiangyang has not been completely quelled. In this time of peace and prosperity, we still need everyone to discuss together."
In the year of Xin Mao, General Xuanmeng Zhu Maichen secretly killed the Crown Prince Dong of Yuzhang, along with his two younger brothers Qiao and Jue; this was at the behest of Emperor Shizu.
In early April, the Governor of Yizhou and newly promoted Grand Commandant, Prince Wuling Ji, usurped the throne in Shu and renamed the era Tianzheng. Our Emperor sent the Minister of Works Xiao Tai and the Minister of Rites Le Zi Yun to pay their respects at the imperial tomb and restore the ancestral temple. A few days later, the Emperor ordered, "Military affairs should not interfere with court politics, and court politics should not interfere with military affairs. Just like when Zichan returned victorious from battle and still wore his military uniform to see the monarch, Zhou Yafu did not bow to him. This illustrates the principle that soldiers should concentrate on warfare." Now that the rebellion has been quelled and peace has been restored, the court should resume its normal rituals, and everyone should return to normal life, so martial law can be lifted. This month, the Emperor appointed Zhang Biao as the General of the East.
In early May, Sikong Nanping Wang Ke and other royal family members, nobles, and generals once again petitioned the emperor to assume the throne, but the emperor firmly refused. A few days later, the emperor appointed Wang Ke as General of the Eastern Garrison and Governor of Yangzhou, with his other positions remaining unchanged. Later, Wang Sengbian was appointed as Minister of State and General Who Guards the Town. Then, in Jiangling City, the traitors: Zuo Pushe Wang Wei, Chief Secretary Lv Jilue, Assistant Minister Zhou Shizhen, and Attendant Yan Dan were publicly executed. That day, the emperor ordered again, saying, "A gentleman forgives the mistakes of others, as noted in the Book of Changes; a sage puts down punishment, as recorded in the edict of King Tang. Since the rebellion of Hou Jing, the world has been in chaos, and the people have suffered. I have lost sleep over thoughts of revenge. Hou Jing has been killed, Wang Wei was his confidant, Zhou Shizhen also betrayed the court, now they have all been executed as a warning to others. However, because the war has lasted for a long time, many people have been forced to participate, including well-dressed old nobles and brave warriors forced to survive. We cannot hold them entirely accountable for their mistakes. Now the court grants a general amnesty, but those who deserve punishment will still face it. For crimes committed before dawn on May 20 in the sixth year of Taiqing, all past offenses will be pardoned, allowing everyone to start afresh!" That month, Northern Wei dispatched Pan Le, Xin Shu, and others to attack Qin County, and Wang Sengbian sent Du Er to lead the troops to resist. The emperor appointed Chen Baxian as Grand General of the Northern Campaign, Supervisor of the Palace Library, holding the same rank as the Three Excellencies, and Governor of Southern Xuzhou. That month, Northern Wei also sent envoys to congratulate the suppression of the rebellion of Hou Jing. In August, Xiao Ji led the army from the Bashu region, sailing downriver in great numbers. He stationed troops under Lu Fa in Baxia, preparing to confront the enemy there. At the same time, he sent Ambassador Xu Ling, who also served as Attendant Cavalry of the Palace Library, to Ye City to deliver a state letter to the Emperor of Wei.
Xu Ling arrived in Ye City, met the Emperor of Wei, and then headed back. Upon hearing the news of the death of Emperor Wu of the Liang Dynasty, Xiao Ji was extremely shocked, feeling all mixed up about what to do. He originally wanted to take advantage of the chaos in the Liang Dynasty to benefit himself, but now that Emperor Wu had died, things got more complicated, and his plans went up in smoke. In a bit of a panic, he started thinking about his next move.
After much consideration, he figured he should hold his ground for now and see how things played out. After all, he also had a considerable army under his command, not someone to mess with. So he decided to wait and observe the situation, waiting for the right moment to strike. He knew this was serious business, and one wrong move could be disastrous.
They say Tang Yao was a wise ruler who took over the throne from Emperor Ku; Yu of Xia was also a wise ruler who eventually inherited the throne from the Yellow Emperor. They governed their countries without deliberate effort, getting great results, which doesn't happen often in history. The revival of the Jin Dynasty originated from Dongguan, while the rise of the Southern Song Dynasty originated from Nandun. How could they possibly downplay the accomplishments of the Yellow Emperor and Zhuanxu? Both of them took the throne after going through a ton of hardships.
Your Majesty, just like the ancient King Cheng of Zhou and King Wu of Zhou, you have inherited the legacy of your ancestors, taken on the mantle of leadership, governed the world, and your palace is supported by wise and virtuous empresses. You are blessed by the heavens, which is not only signaled by the auspicious omens of Mount Taishi; you have gained the world, which is also a testament to the blessings of the Yao Emperor’s lineage. You possess the benevolence of a great filial sage and the qualities of a nobleman, using these to educate the people and influence scholars. You manage countless affairs with expertise in both civil and military matters. You handle all kinds of affairs excellently; your accomplishments are truly remarkable.
In the past, due to the incompetence and cruelty of rulers, the country gradually weakened, disasters occurred frequently, and the people were displaced. Later, Emperor Wu rose to power, yearning to restore the nation’s glory, but sadly passed away. Family grievances were settled, symbolized by the yellow bird flag granted by heaven; the country's crisis was resolved, represented by the black fox talisman bestowed by heaven. Duke Teng stood tall and formidable, while General Zhang Xiu fought valiantly. Their loyalty and filial piety moved heaven and earth. Like thunder and fierce tigers, they bravely fought and defeated their enemies. Some were killed in the west, some were killed in the east. Chi You was killed; that was a severe punishment; Wang Mang was killed; that was a just punishment. The Qiang and Di tribes were exterminated, the barbarians were also conquered, the nation's borders were secured, allowing the people to live in peace and prosperity.
From the dawn of chaos to the Xia and Shang Dynasties, throughout history, all emperors unified the nation through warfare. Emperor Yao and King Tang of Shang both established their achievements through war. Later, after wars, the nation was unified, and peace reigned across the land. Then auspicious signs emerged, sweet dew fell, and lingzhi mushrooms flourished, and everywhere you looked, there was a scene of prosperity; the border’s minority ethnic groups all came to pay tribute, and the world was at peace. Your civil and military achievements are intertwined, showcasing the greatness of your accomplishments.
You should cast a wide net for talent, consult courtiers, govern the country carefully, and develop the economy. You don’t need to personally appease the royal family members. The country is peaceful, and Chang'an City is harmonious. You should graciously accept the officials' congratulations and the blessings from above. You are chosen by destiny; who could possibly challenge you?
On the 20th of last month, ministers like Liu Hui came to Ye City, obeying orders humbly and cautiously, not daring to act on their own. Some say Jingyang is still not recovered, and Hangu Pass is still not repaired. You should return to Jinling and accept the blessings of heaven. I believe that the ancient emperors Yao and Shun, from the Xia and Shang dynasties, did not have fixed capitals. You could go to Mount Tai for the Fengshan ceremony, hold sacrifices in the Mingtang, and tour various places, all of which are reasonable. You don't have to build a royal palace in a dangerous place, or a heavenly gate on Niutou Mountain.
I heard that although you accepted tribute offerings, musical instruments have not been used for a long time. Isn't this regrettable? I hope Your Majesty can empathize with the people's suffering and save them from peril; do not decline, do not evade responsibility.
Ancient Su Qin and Zhang Yi, although they betrayed their hometown, could persuade the princes and serve Zhao and Qin. Moreover, we, as ministers, are commissioned by Your Majesty, sent to various places to serve the country. Though we’ve faced hardships, we’re eager to serve the country. We are just limited in ability, hoping Your Majesty can understand.
On the ninth day of the ninth month, Sikong, Zhen Dong General, and Governor of Yangzhou, Wang Ke, died.
Alas, what sad news.
On the sixth day of the tenth month, the former governor of Liangzhou, Xiao Xun, ran from Northern Wei to our Jiangling, and the emperor appointed him as the General Who Pacifies the North and the Supervisor of the Palace. This promotion is quite the quick turnaround!
On the ninth day of the tenth month, the emperor arrested Wang Lin, the Governor of Xiangzhou, in the imperial palace. Wang Lin's deputy general, Yin Yan, was also imprisoned and eventually died. Poor Wang Lin, he must have really messed up.
On October 12, the emperor once again appointed his son Fanglue as the Governor of Xiangzhou, replacing Wang Lin. Truly a case of nepotism!
On October 15, Wang Lin's chief of staff, Lu Na, along with his generals, including Pan Wulei and others, rebelled and launched a surprise attack to seize Xiangzhou. This is just adding to the chaos!
This month, ministers, generals, and nobles from across the country began urging the emperor to ascend the throne and take on a more exalted title. However, the emperor humbly declined their requests several times before finally agreeing.
On the day of Bingzi in the eleventh month of the first year of Chengsheng, Emperor Shizu ascended the throne in Jiangling. He issued a decree saying, "Governing a country is like planting trees; one must take good care of the people. Emperor Yao did not aspire for the luxury of the imperial palace, but took on the role of emperor out of necessity. My imperial ancestor, Emperor Wen of the Taizu dynasty, accumulated virtues and benevolence, his benevolence extended to Qishan and Liangzhou, his teachings spread throughout the Jianghan Basin, his merits benefited the people, and everyone admired him. My father, Emperor Wu of the Gaozu dynasty, had achievements as radiant as the sun and moon, his merits spread throughout the world, in accordance with the will of heaven, deeply loved by the people; he was truly a wise and holy ruler. The merits of Emperor Jianwen of Taizong are comparable to those of Yao and Shun, and his governance is also similar to the rule of Wen and Jing. Previously, the Jie tribes invaded; the situation was dire and perilous. I labored diligently to quell the rebellion and restore our ancestral legacy. All ministers and officials believe this to be the blessing of heaven, and that heaven has entrusted me with a great task. The mandate of heaven does not last forever, nor can the throne remain vacant indefinitely. Looking back at the past, I adhered to the laws of my ancestors and revered the majesty of heaven, so I could obtain the divine artifact of the world. In the past dynasties of Yu, Xia, Shang, and Zhou, the emperors did not change the era when ascending the throne; the same is true for the dynasties of Han, Wei, Jin, and Song, which endured for many years. Although I have quelled the rebellion, I am not the founding monarch; I must uphold our ancestral legacy and benefit the people, so I have decided to change the sixth year of Taiqing to the first year of Chengsheng. All previous unpaid taxes and old debts are allowed to be repaid at a later date; filial sons and righteous grandsons shall all be granted titles; soldiers who have committed offenses shall all be pardoned; those who have been imprisoned or stripped of their official positions shall all be released." On that day, Emperor Shizu did not enter the main hall; instead, he held the ceremony in the presence of his ministers.
On the second day, Dingchou Day, Xiao Xun was appointed General of Chariots and Cavalry and Governor of Xiangzhou, while his other titles remained the same. On the day of Jimao, Prince Wang Fangju was named Crown Prince and renamed him Yuanliang; Prince Fangzhi was established as the Prince of Jin'an County, and Fanglue was established as the Prince of Shi'an County; his birth mother Ruan Xiurong was posthumously honored as Empress Wenxuan. That month, General Pan Wulei and other commanders sent by Lu Na attacked and defeated Ding Daogui's army at Luku, forcing Ding Daogui to flee to Lingling.
On the day of Renzi in the twelfth month, Lu Na divided his troops to attack Baling, but was defeated by Xiao Xun, the Xiangzhou Governor. That month, Li Hongya, Governor of Yingzhou, led his troops from Lingling to prepare to confront Lu Na. Lu Na's generals, including Wu Zang, attacked and defeated Li Hongya, who retreated to fortify Kongyuncheng.
On the second day of the first month in 552 AD, the court ordered Wang Sengbian to lead an army against Lu Na. On the same day, Wang Bao was appointed Right Deputy Minister of Personnel, and Liu Jue was appointed Minister of Personnel. The Western Wei dispatched General Yuchi Jing to attack Yizhou.
On a day in March, the emperor issued a decree saying, "The livelihoods of the common people are of paramount importance; agriculture is the foundation of the country. For thousands of years, emperors have prioritized seasonal farming and have personally labored in the fields. The 'Book of Songs' celebrates the joys of farming, and the 'Spring and Autumn Annals' also documented instances of crop failure. The Qin State had laws to encourage agricultural production, and the Han Dynasty established the system of garrison farming. In recent years, the country has been too preoccupied with war to focus on agriculture; orders to promote farming have not been implemented locally, and there have been issues with military conscription. Now that the wars have subsided and the country is unified, we should protect the common people well and rescue them from peril. If even one household neglects its farmland, it can lead to significant losses. Only with a strong, prosperous nation and just laws can every household thrive. Therefore, those who personally work in the fields should be exempt from taxes. All regions must effectively communicate my directives." On another day of the same month, Li Hongya surrendered to the rebel forces in Kongyun City, where he was subsequently executed. Before this, Ding Daogui sought refuge with Li Hongya in Lingling, who instructed him to gather the remaining soldiers and surrender together. After Li Hongya surrendered, the rebel army killed Ding Daogui. A few days later, rebel leaders, including Wu Zang, took control of Chelun. And a few days later, two dragons emerged in the Xijiang River in Xiangzhou.
On a certain day in April, Wang Sengbian's army arrived in Chelun. On a certain day in May, the army attacked the rebels and won a decisive victory. The following day, Wang Sengbian's army arrived in Changsha. Days later, Yuchi Jing advanced towards Baxi, and the Governor of Tongzhou, Yang Qianyun, defected to Yuchi Jing. Days later, Xiao Ji's forces arrived in Xiling. On a certain day in June, Xiangzhou was pacified. In this month, Yuchi Jing surrounded Yizhou. On a certain day in July, the Ba people Fu Sheng and Xu Zichu killed the rebel leader Gongsun Chao and opened the city gates to surrender. Xiao Ji's forces suffered a defeat, and many soldiers died in battle. A few days later, Wang Sengbian returned to Jiangling, and the court commanded all troops to return to their posts. On a certain day in August, Yuchi Jing captured Yizhou. That same month, the emperor issued a decree saying, "From ancient times to the present, emperors have established their capitals and will not easily change the ancestral capital. In recent years, the turmoil of war has settled, and the borders are peaceful. I have always been concerned about the southern military situation. Now that the Jiang and Xiang regions have been pacified, and the rebellion in Bashu has also been quelled, the army is triumphant, and the world is at peace. The supplies transported from the Jiang and Xiang regions, the vessels are linked together, there are many warships in the Ba and Xia regions, the army will first advance to Jianye, then return to the capital, and then worship the ancestral shrine and repair the ancestral shrine. Relevant departments should handle it according to the old rules." On a certain day in September, the Minister of Works, Wang Sengbian, returned to his garrison. On the same day, Lu Faheng was appointed as the Governor of Yingzhou; Prince Jin'an Fang Zhi was appointed as the Governor of Jiangzhou. In this month, the Wei Kingdom sent Guo Yuanjian to organize the navy in Hefei, and also sent generals Xing Gaoyuan, Bu Liu Hansa, and Dongfang Lao to join forces. On a certain day in November, Wang Sengbian arrived in Gushu and stayed to guard it. He sent the Governor of Yuzhou, Hou Tian, to guard the East Gate, and also called upon the Prefect of Wuxing, Pei Zhiheng, to lead troops to reinforce. A few days later, Wang Bao was appointed as the Left Deputy of the Ministry of Personnel, and Zhang Wan was appointed as the Right Deputy of the Ministry of Personnel. In December, the local people of Suyu, Dongfang Guang, occupied the city and submitted to the court, and the counties and prefectures of Jiangxi in the Wei Kingdom rallied in response.
In January of the year 554 AD, Hou Jian was promoted and became the governor of Nan Yu Province, General of the Northern Expedition, and was bestowed the rank of 'Three Excellencies,' reaching a high position. At this time, Chen Baxian led troops to attack Guangling City. Yan Chaoda, the governor of Qinzhou, besieged Jingzhou from the Qinzhou side, while Hou Jian and Zhang Biao set out from Shiliang to provide support. A few days later, Chen Baxian sent Du Sengming with troops to assist Dongfang Guang's forces.
In March, Wang Sengbian was promoted to Grand Commandant and Grand General of Chariots and Cavalry, with his rank continuing to rise. The Wei army sent Wang Qiu with seven hundred men to attack Suyu, but they suffered a major defeat at the hands of Du Sengming. A few days later, Lu Fai was promoted to Minister of Public Works. In April, Chen Baxian was also promoted and became Minister of Public Works. In June, the Wei army sent Bu Liu Hansa with troops to rescue Jingzhou. That night, a dragon-shaped black mist appeared in the palace, which was quite frightening. In July, Zong Min became the Minister of Personnel. In September, the Emperor delivered a lecture on the 'Laozi' in Longguang Hall, with Wang Bao providing explanations. The Wei army sent Wan Niu Yu Jin with troops to attack.
In October, the Wei army reached Xiangyang, and Xiao Cha led troops to meet them in battle. That day, a strong wind blew, toppling trees, prompting the court to declare martial law and the Emperor to move to the temporary palace. The Emperor ordered the mobilization of Wang Sengbian and others' troops. In November, the court assigned Hu Sengyou, Zhang Wan, Wang Bao, and Yuan Jingliang to oversee the defense of the east, north, west, and south of the city respectively, with civil and military officials each performing their duties and standing ready. The Emperor personally inspected the defensive works, the Crown Prince also inspected the city walls, and even mobilized the local populace to assist in transporting stones and water. The Wei army reached the city. The court urgently summoned Wang Lin for reinforcement. That day, a fire broke out in the city, compounding the difficulties. Hu Sengyou was promoted, and Pei Ji became the Commander-in-Chief. Xu Shipu and Sima Renyue's troops arrived at Matou'an.
Hu Sengyou and Zhu Maichen led troops into battle, but Zhu Maichen suffered a crushing defeat with heavy losses. Wang Bao was demoted. The Wei army launched a fierce attack, with the Emperor personally commanding the troops. Hu Sengyou was shot by a stray arrow and died in battle. The army was defeated; some soldiers opened the west gate and surrendered to the Wei army, leading to the breach of the city. The Emperor was captured and escorted in a manner similar to Xiao Cha, but was later returned to the city. In December, Xu Shipu and Sima Ren agreed to withdraw their troops to Baling. The Western Wei killed the Emperor, who passed away at the age of forty-seven. The Crown Prince Yuanliang and Prince Fanglue were also killed. The Western Wei captured tens of thousands of civilians as slaves, taking them back to Chang'an, where the elderly, sick, and disabled were all killed. In April of the following year, he was posthumously honored as Emperor Xiaoyuan, with the temple name Shizu.
Shizu was intelligent and handsome from a young age, with exceptional talent and wisdom. At the age of five, Emperor Gaozu asked him, "What books do you read?" He replied, "I can recite the Book of Rites." Emperor Gaozu said, "Recite a passage for me." He recited the first part right there, astonishing everyone present. He had a slight eye problem as a child, which Emperor Gaozu personally looked into, but it resulted in him losing sight in one eye, causing Emperor Gaozu to love him even more.
As he grew up, he was eager to learn, well-versed in many books, his writings were marked by eloquence, his speech clear and logical, and his eloquence and debating skills were unmatched at the time. Emperor Gaozu once asked him, "How old was Sun Ce when he was in Jiangdong?" He replied, "Seventeen." Emperor Gaozu said, "That's your age now!" At that time, He Ge served as a consultant in the prefecture, and Emperor Gaozu even ordered He Ge to teach him the Three Rites. Shizu did not like extravagance; he was known for his integrity and had an excellent reputation. He was friends with Pei Ziye, Liu Xian, Xiao Ziyun, Zhang Zuan, and other talented young people at the time. Many of his works have been passed down through generations.
Once, while in Xunyang, he dreamed that someone said to him, "Chaos will soon engulf the world, and you will be able to pacify it." He also had a black mark on his back, which a witch saw and said, "This is a sign of great wealth and prosperity; this is something that must remain unspoken." Initially, He Ge was going to the west for a new post, feeling quite discontented. He said goodbye to Deputy Imperial Censor Jiang Ge and shared his thoughts with him. Jiang Ge said, "I once had a dream where the Emperor met with all his sons, and when he reached the Prince of Xiangdong, the Emperor took off his hat and handed it to him. This person is destined to achieve great things in the future; you should go!" He Ge listened to his words and went. Later, during the Taiping Rebellion, he was indeed able to pacify the rebellion, so people from all around rallied behind him, and he eventually successfully inherited the throne.
His works include: "The Biography of Filial Piety" in thirty volumes, "The Biography of Loyal Ministers" in thirty volumes, "The Biography of Dan Yang Yin" in ten volumes, "Annotations on the Book of Han" in one hundred and fifteen volumes, "Zhouyi Commentary" in ten volumes, "Essentials of the Inner Canon" in one hundred volumes, "Lianshan" in thirty volumes, "Donglin" in three volumes, "Yutao" in ten volumes, "Buquezi" in ten volumes, "Laozi Commentary" in four volumes, "Complete Virtue Annals," "Nostalgia Annals," "Jingnan Annals," "Jiangzhou Records," "Gongzhi Tu," "Ancient and Modern Homonym Records" in one volume, "Shijing" in twelve volumes, "Shizan" in three volumes, and a collection of fifty volumes.
Historians say that during the late years of the Liang Dynasty, the disasters, those big villains relied on strong fortresses. Our Emperor Taizu had a prominent position at the time, with a strong army at his command, fully capable of preserving the Chu region. He personally led the vassal armies, charging ahead in battle. At first glance, it appeared he was seeking external help, but in reality, it was very different from the ancient scenarios of loyalists rushing to the rescue. Emperor Taizu's intention was to personally lead the expedition, with no intention of a long journey. Later, he eliminated those treacherous figures in the rear, stabilized the country, and sat in the south, marking the beginning of a prosperous era. This was all thanks to Emperor Taizu's strategic vision, inheriting and expanding upon the prosperous times and landscape.
However, he was naturally suspicious, regardless of whether the other party was close or distant; he was suspicious of everyone and would not trust people, acting recklessly, with no regard for danger. Therefore, although he earned credit for defending the capital, he could not, like those wise emperors in history, maintain a clear and prosperous domestic policy. Consider this: Emperor Taizu was so intelligent, and he valued politics so much, and he did not believe in those twisted arguments, yet he chose to relocate the capital to Jinling, right next to a formidable enemy. What could he have been thinking? Therefore, fate did not change its intention to punish him, ultimately resulting in his demise and the fall of the country, which is indeed a tragic outcome.
