Xiongshao Yuan is the eldest son of Emperor Wen. Shao was born after Emperor Wen ascended the throne. At that time, the emperor was still in a relatively low-profile position, so this matter was kept hidden. It wasn't until the third intercalary month of the third year that Shao's birth was officially announced. From the past to the present, there has never been a case of an empress giving birth to a crown prince after her husband ascended the throne. The only exception was Emperor Yi of the Yin Dynasty, whose queen gave birth to King Zhou after his ascension, and now there is Shao. Shao grew up to be quite handsome, and Emperor Wen was very pleased.
At the age of six, he was appointed as the Crown Prince, with the Chief Eunuch leading the guards in Yongfu Province. A palace was specially built for him, grand and beautifully decorated. At the age of twelve, he moved to the Eastern Palace and married the daughter of the Minister of the Imperial Court, Yin Chun, as his Crown Princess. At the age of thirteen, he held his coming-of-age ceremony. He enjoyed reading historical books, especially excelling in archery. When he grew up, he was strikingly handsome, with large eyes, a square jaw, and stood seven feet four inches tall. He personally handled palace affairs, received guests, and the emperor would always grant his wishes. The Eastern Palace was also equipped with an army, similar to the Imperial Guard. In the seventeenth year, Shao was appointed as the King of Jingling, and the Grand General, King Yikang of Pengcheng, King Dan of Jingling, and the Marquis of Guiyang, Yi Rong, all followed him, while the Minister of State, King Yigong of Jiangxia, also rushed from Jiangdu to meet at Jingkou.
In the twenty-seventh year, the emperor wanted to launch a northern expedition. Shao and Xiao Sihua strongly advised against it, but the emperor did not listen. The Northern Wei army reached Guabu, and the capital was thrown into panic. Shao was sent to guard Shitou City and command the navy. He was highly skilled in both pacifying and commanding troops. When the emperor arrived at Shitou City, his face was worried, and Shao said, "Without killing Jiang Zhan and Xu Zhan, it wouldn't be sufficient to justify to the people." The emperor said, "The northern expedition is my decision, and it has nothing to do with either of them."
The emperor at that time focused all his attention on agricultural production, promoting farming and sericulture. Even the people in the palace raised silkworms, hoping to inspire the common people. There was a witch named Yan Daoyu, from Wuxing, who claimed to have spiritual abilities and could command spirits. Her husband committed a crime and had his property confiscated to serve as a slave to the government. Princess Dongyang, the sister of Prince Shao, heard from her palace maid Wang Parrot that "Yan Daoyu is spiritual and has extraordinary magic." The princess told the emperor that she was skilled in sericulture and requested to summon her to the palace, which the emperor agreed to. After Yan Daoyu entered the palace, she claimed to have taken an elixir, and both the princess and Prince Shao believed her. Prince Shao, who had always flattered the emperor, and they both made many mistakes and were afraid that the emperor would find out, so they asked Yan Daoyu to pray, hoping the emperor would remain unaware of their mistakes. Yan Daoyu assured them, "I will report to the heavens and ensure it remains confidential." Shao and the others served her very respectfully and called her the Celestial Master. Later, they used witchcraft to harm people, crafting a jade effigy in the likeness of the emperor and burying it in front of the Hanzhang Hall.
At first, Princess Dongyang had a servant named Chen Tianxing, who raised a parrot and treated it like a son, even engaged in intimate activities. This parrot, Chen Tianxing, and Huang Menqingguo, who was presented by Ningzhou, were all implicated in the witchcraft. Later, Xiao Shao promoted Chen Tianxing to the position of team leader. After Princess Dongyang died, the parrot was to be married off, and Xiao Shao was worried that this matter would be exposed, so he consulted with Xiao Jun. At that time, Shen Huaiyuan, a man from Wuxing, was a subordinate in Xiao Jun's mansion, and Xiao Jun treated him especially well, so he married the parrot to Shen Huaiyuan as a concubine, keeping it from the emperor. Xiao Shao was afraid that the matter would be revealed in the future, so he discreetly mentioned it to Princess Linhe.
The emperor later learned that Chen Tianxing had become the squad leader, so he sent a eunuch, Xie Chengzu, to question Xiao Shao: "There was a servant in Princess Linhe's mansion who wanted to get married before. I also heard that this servant raised another person's slave as her own son. You actually promoted her to squad leader. Isn’t that a bit too fast? Are all your supervisors and deputies just slaves? What have you arranged for the servant who wanted to get married?" Xiao Shao replied, "Previously, Chen Tianxing managed the South Division (the Dongyang Princess's residence). She asked me to let her work, and I joked, 'As long as you can fight, you can join the squad.' It was just a casual remark at the time, and I forgot about it. Later, Chen Tianxing asked me for a position on the road. Thinking of the past, I felt too embarrassed to go back on my word. Seeing that she was strong and capable, I made her the director of ceremonies and deputy squad leader. Although I value old employees in my hiring, I also consider ability. I have already reported the personnel list. As for the servant who wanted to get married, I haven't found a suitable match for her yet." In fact, at that time, the parrot was already married to Shen Huaiyuan. Worried, Xiao Shao quickly wrote a letter to Xiao Jun, and also asked Xiao Jun to tell Princess Linhe: "If the emperor asks where the parrot has gone to get married, just say it’s still not settled."
Xiao Jun replied, "I follow orders, but I was terrified. I told you about this a long time ago; now you're asking me about it, someone must have leaked information, and I don't know who. Princess Linhe definitely cannot change her stance; otherwise, she will be in trouble herself. This old woman (referring to Princess Dongyang) has offended both sides, making it very difficult for her to be protected. You should go ask Princess Linhe yourself to uncover the truth. If the Emperor inquires, just play it off. I’m not sure if there are any records of her there, so check quickly. Have you had an audience with the Emperor? You should bring this matter directly to his attention. If he (referring to the Emperor) doesn't let it go, then we may have no choice but to expedite her (referring to Princess Dongyang) demise, and perhaps we could even receive a significant reward for it." Xiao Shao and Xiao Jun corresponded using code names in their letters, referring to the Emperor as "that person" or "the one"; Prince Yigong of Jiangxia as "Ninger"; Princess Dongyang's residence outside the Xiyemen Gate was referred to as "South House"; "Wang" refers to the parrot's surname, and reporting to the Emperor personally means reporting to the Jade Emperor and the heavenly deities.
The parrot, this parrot, seems to miss someone from afar. Worried that its secret relationship with Tianxing would be revealed, it asked Shao to take care of Tianxing. Shao secretly sent someone to kill Tianxing. Qingguo figured he would be next since only these two had been close normally, and with Tianxing dead, he reported the whole matter to the emperor. The emperor was both surprised and saddened when he heard this, and immediately ordered the capture of the parrot and sealed off the owner's house. As a result, hundreds of letters exchanged between Shao and Jun, all filled with curses and sorcery, were found, along with their buried puppet of the emperor discovered in the palace. Daoyu had escaped and remained elusive. The emperor was furious, investigated the matter thoroughly, and sent many eunuchs to search in various counties in the east, but still could not find him. The emperor confronted Shao and Jun, and the two of them turned pale with fear, unable to utter a word, and could only apologize repeatedly. Daoyu disguised himself as a nun and hid in the Eastern Palace, while Jun ran to Jingkou and fled with Daoyu, occasionally staying at the home of a commoner named Zhang Wu.
Prince Yigong of Jiangxia returned to the court from Xuyi. The emperor questioned him about the witchcraft, saying, "I've read about such things in books before and thought they were mere fantasies, but I never expected to see it with my own eyes. Although Shao's behavior is improper, it doesn't necessarily mean the downfall of the country. The emperor's position won't be our concern moving forward. You have many sons, so if they ever face such misfortune, don’t take it too hard."
Earlier, in the twenty-eighth year of his reign, a comet appeared from the constellations of Pi and Maobu, entered the Taiwei Palace, passed by the emperor's seat and the front gate, and also passed by the Yi and Zhen constellations. In the twenty-ninth year, Mars retrograded and stayed in the Di constellation. Starting from November, it rained continuously, accompanied by snow, and the sun rarely appeared. In the first month of the thirtieth year, strong winds picked up, hail fell, and thunder rumbled. The emperor was worried that someone might rebel, so he increased Shao's military power and unusually stationed ten thousand soldiers in the East Palace. Whenever the emperor went out, Shao was required to personally guard him and even had the White Direct Guard follow along.
In February of that year, Jun returned from Jingkou to the capital to attend court. Originally, he was supposed to be sent to guard Jiangling, but ended up traveling back with Dao Yu to the East Palace, preparing to head west to Luoyang. Someone informed the emperor: "In Jingkou, there is a commoner named Zhang Ping, whose home has a nun who consumes immortal pills and miraculous medicine, and frequently visits the residence of the Northern Expedition General, appearing to be Yan Dao Yu." Initially, the emperor was skeptical, so he secretly sent someone to investigate and caught the nun's two maidservants, who confessed: "Dao Yu followed the Northern Expedition General back to the capital." The emperor believed that since Shao and Jun had already resolved to eliminate Dao Yu, yet still secretly communicated with him, he felt a mix of anger and fear, truly puzzled and astonished.
So the emperor sent agents by boat from Jingkou to bring Dao Yu's two maidservants for a thorough investigation. Then, the emperor dismissed Shao from his position, had Jun executed, and informed him of the matter. Lady Pan Shufei, Jun's mother, was also informed. Jun quickly sent someone to inform Shao. As a result, Shao reconsidered and hosted nightly banquets for the soldiers, sometimes even raising a toast himself, secretly strategizing with his trusted aides Chen Shuer, Zhan Shuer, Zhaishuai Zhang Chaozhi, and Ren Jianzhi.
Goodness, Dao Yu's daughter is coming soon, on the evening of the twenty-first. She even forged an imperial edict, declaring, "Lu Xiu is planning a rebellion. Guard the palace gates tomorrow morning and lead the troops in to put down the rebellion!" Then she had Zhang Chao and the others gather the over two thousand soldiers they usually had on hand, fully armed. She also summoned the captains and deputy captains of the inner and outer troops, arranged the troops in advance, and said they were going to suppress the rebels. That evening, she also summoned the former Zhongshuzi, Xiao Bin, and in the middle of the night, she called Xiao Bin, left guard leader Yuan Shu, middle chamberlain Yin Zhongsu, and left archer general Wang Zhengjian into the palace, informing them that things were looking grim. She even cried in front of them, frightening Xiao Bin and the others. This incident is noted in Yuan Shu's biography.
The next day, before dawn, Sima Shao, dressed in red, donning armor, rode in a grand carriage and entered the palace with Xiao Bin, accompanied by the usual procession. The gatekeepers didn’t stop them as they went straight through Wanchun Gate. By the old rules, the troops from the East Palace were not allowed to enter the city, but Sima Shao informed the gatekeepers, "This is following the imperial edict to suppress the rebels!" He then urged the troops behind to follow quickly, and Zhang Chao and the others rushed through Yunlong Gate, Donghua Gate, and Zaige, drawing their swords and charging toward the main hall. That night, the emperor and the Minister of Works, Xu Zhanzhi, were locked in a room discussing secretly until dawn, and the soldiers on guard were still asleep. Zhang Chao and the others seized the opportunity to kill Xu Zhanzhi.
Sima Shao rushed into the Hall of Supreme Harmony. By this time, the Emperor had already passed away. Sima Shao took a seat in the Eastern Hall, with Xiao Bin standing guard beside him, knife in hand. He then called for Gu Ju, the imperial secretary. Gu Ju was terrified and didn’t dare to come out for a long while. When he finally mustered the courage to come in, Sima Shao asked him, "Do you want to go down with me? Why didn't you tell me earlier?" Before Gu Ju could respond, Sima Shao killed him. He also dispatched someone to Chongli Gate to eliminate Jiang Zhan, the Minister of Personnel. One of the Emperor's guards, Bu Tian, clashed with Sima Shao in the Eastern Hall and was slain. Sima Shao then sent his men to storm the East Pavilion and kill Lady Pan Shu, along with many other close aides of the Emperor—around dozens! He quickly dispatched someone to summon Sima Jun, the Prince of Shixing, to position troops in the central hall. He also called for the Grand Commandant, King of Jiangxia, Sima Yigong, and the Prefect of the Masters of Writing, He Shangzhi. That kid Xiao Daocheng outright usurped the throne, and even issued an edict declaring, "Xu Zhanzhi and Jiang Zhan, these two are simply rebellious villains! I stormed into the palace with my troops, but sadly, it was too late. I am utterly heartbroken! The criminals are captured, the masterminds are dealt with, and now I can grant amnesty to the whole world! Let’s change the 30th year of Jia to the first year of Taichu! All civil and military officials will be promoted two ranks, and everything else will follow the rules of Dingmao year!"
Initially, he asked Xiao Bin to draft the edict, but Xiao Bin declined, saying that he wasn't skilled at writing and couldn't manage it. So, Xiao Daocheng had the attendant Wang Sengchuo write it instead. The era was renamed to Taichu, which had already been agreed upon by Xiao Daocheng and Dao Yu. Xiao Bin remarked, "Changing the era within a year doesn't seem appropriate, does it?" Hearing this, Xiao Daocheng readily agreed. Only a few dozen officials came to pay their respects, so Xiao Daocheng quickly ascended the throne. After the coronation ceremony, he claimed he was ill and returned to Yongfu Province, later relocating to the front hall of Taiji. On that day, he appointed Xiao Bin as Cavalier Regular Attendant, Left Supervisor of the Masters of Writing, and General of the Army; He Shangzhi as Minister of Works; Tan Hezhi as Administrator of Shitoucheng; Dao Hou Yiqi as General Who Conquers the Caitiffs, stationed in the capital; and Yin Zhongjing as Attendant and Central Guard Commander. When the late Emperor was buried, Xiao Daocheng claimed illness and did not dare to show his face. All weapons previously distributed to the princes and regions were recalled to the arsenal. He also executed the confidants of Xu Zhanzhi and Jiang Zhan, including the newly appointed Interior Minister of Shixing, Xun Chisong, the newly appointed Deputy Secretary of the Left, Zang Ningzhi, the Prefect of Shanyin, Fu Sengyou, the Prefect of Wu, Jiang Hui, the former Military Advisor to the Northern Expedition, Zhuge Xu, and the Right Guard Sima Jiang Wengang. He promoted Yin Zhongsu to Gentleman of the Yellow Gate, Wang Zhengjian to General of the Left Army, Zhang Chaozhi, and those literati who participated in the rebellion, such as Wenzhi Wenzi, Xu Xingzu, Zhan Shuer, Chen Shuer, Ren Jianzhi, and officials from Colonel to General of the Dragon Cavalry, each receiving two hundred thousand coins. He also sent a message to Lu Xiu: "Xu Zhanzhi has always wanted to harm you; I've taken care of him for you," and appointed Lu Xiu and the Commandant of the Stables, Pang Xiuzhi, to jointly command the army. Wang Sengchuo was appointed as Minister of Personnel, and He Yan was appointed as Attendant.
When Xiao Daocheng officially donned mourning attire, he went to the palace to mourn the late emperor, weeping inconsolably. He also sought the opinions of officials and ministers, soliciting advice on governance, alleviating taxes and corvée labor, and curtailing various expenditures on entertainment. The royal lands, parks, and mountains and marshes that could be transferred were all distributed to the poor.
In March, the emperor sent envoys to various places to carry out tasks. Five counties east of Zhejiang were placed under the jurisdiction of Huizhou, Yangzhou was abolished, and the office of Prefect of the Masters of Writing was created, with Yin Chong appointed to the position. Prince Yigong of Jiangxia, the Grand General, was appointed as Grand Preceptor, Minister of Works King Yixuan of Nanqiao was appointed as Grand Commandant, and Prince Jun of Shixing, the Guard General and Inspector of Jingzhou, was promoted to General of Chariots and Cavalry. Wang Sengchuo was executed for his role in the emperor's deposition. Prince Jin of Changsha, Jin's brother Kai, Prince Ye of Linchuan, Marquis Ji of Guiyang, and Marquis Qiu of Xinyu were all imprisoned and executed as a result of past enmities. The officials, mindful of the emperor's wishes, were cautious not to employ overly laudatory language when posthumously honoring the Emperor Taizu, ultimately bestowing upon him the title of Emperor Jing of Zhongzong. Zang Zhi was appointed as Intendant of Danyang, promoted to General Who Subdues the South, and given the additional title of Cavalier In Regular Attendance; General Who Fosters Valor Prince Shuo of Nanping was appointed as General of the Central Army; and Governor of Kuaiji Su Wangdan was appointed as Inspector of Huizhou. Prince Yigong of Jiangxia served simultaneously as Grand Preceptor and Grand Master, handling consultations and reports, a system that adhered to the precedent set by the Prince of Fufeng during the Jin Dynasty.
Emperor Shizu, along with regional military and political leaders, including King Yixuan of Nanqiao and King Dan of Sui, all rose up in rebellion. When Liu Shao heard that the rebel forces were mobilizing on a large scale, he gathered all the princes and ministers in the city and relocated King Yigong of Jiangxia to a residence beneath the Ministry of Personnel, while his sons resided in accommodations below the Palace Attendants. Before the first year of the Yongchu era, the matters of fasting, preaching, envoys, and other affairs of the Prime Minister's Office were all overseen by Xue County in Nanpengcheng. Liu Shao issued orders stating that he would raise troops from the middle reaches of the Yangtze River, personally lead six armies, monitor the situation in Jiangzhou and Jianye, and convene all subordinate officials and generals. He also elevated the military ranks of the Taishou in the Sanwu region and appointed deputy generals and soldiers. In April, Liu Shao declared Lady Yin as the Empress. Emperor Shizu issued a proclamation to the capital, declaring:
Alas, there's no such thing as eternal good fortune. There are always great disasters and difficulties. Since the previous generation, whether it was due to not enjoying enough benefits or simply bad luck, or because of incompetence and cruelty that led to chaos in the world, in the end, it is all due to a lack of understanding and broken bonds of trust between monarch and ministers. Therefore, like ice meeting fire, it will inevitably melt away. I've never seen anyone manage the world with the right principles, educate the people, and end up being consumed by it. It is truly unpredictable!
My father, the late Emperor, during his reign was wise, virtuous, and benevolent; his achievements spread throughout the world, his radiance shone upon all nations, and his teachings resonated deeply with the people. His influence reached far and wide, even the desolate and remote places felt his grace; his compassion touched everyone, making even stones and wood seem alive. However, that scoundrel Shao, relying on his royal lineage and spoiled since childhood, actually seized the throne and disrespected the Empress, cruel and brutal since childhood, becoming even more treacherous and vicious as he grew up. That rogue Jun, even more violent and lawless, colluded with one another from childhood through adulthood, committing all kinds of misdeeds together.
My father had long anticipated that the royal family was bound to face disaster, with the nation in peril. Therefore, he had been patient, not exposing their crimes, hoping that through education and admonition, they could reform their ways. Unexpectedly, these arrogant and evil individuals not only refused to repent but also colluded, using witchcraft to create chaos and ultimately committing regicide and usurping the throne! My father was tragically poisoned, the country faced destruction, and people were in panic. Both mortals and deities were in deep mourning. Such a calamity has never been seen from ancient times until now! Upon hearing this terrible news, we were struck with terror, our hearts heavy with grievances and rage, with nowhere to turn. The Grand Marshal and the princes were imprisoned, their fates hanging in the balance. Xu Pushe, Jiang Shangshu, and Yuan Zuoshuai were all the backbone of the nation at that time, loyal and steadfast. Some spoke out in court, some refused to go along with the traitors' conspiracy, and all were killed, their severed heads displayed for all to see in the city. The royal family was exterminated, and the suffering extended beyond a single surname. This calamity has spread, and we are left wondering when it will finally cease.
Back in the days of the Zhou Dynasty's decline, the states of Qi and Jin had both rallied to the king's aid. The Han Dynasty also experienced internal strife, with loyal ministers, such as Xu and Mou, who sacrificed their lives for the nation. Our current officials in the government bear the same responsibility as the loyal ministers of ancient times, their loyalty comparable to that of king and subjects. Therefore, we are all on edge, struggling to survive, all in the effort to bring the culprits to justice and restore honor to our nation.
Now I command Champion General Liu Yuanjing to lead the Zhongzhi army, and General Ma Wengong, the Ning Shuo General, to command thirty thousand elite soldiers to swiftly advance to Shitoucheng before splitting their forces to attack Baixia; General Zong Que, the Fuguo General, commands twenty thousand soldiers, and General Shen Qingzhi, the Zhenlu General, leads fifty thousand elite soldiers, both also set off quickly; other troops also act separately, with some burning ships and marching from Gushu; while others are taking fast boats from Wuhu to occupy Yunyang. These generals are all brave and resourceful, renowned throughout the Central Plains, with achievements recognized far and wide. The elite soldiers directly commanded by the headquarters number over one hundred thousand, all sharpening their swords and gearing up for battle, with troops continuously heading to the front lines. The wise and decisive Lord Situ launched an attack, mobilizing the armies from eight provinces and rapidly advancing towards Jingzhou and Yingzhou; Champion General Zang Zhizhong is exceptionally brave and is also responding proactively, with a formidable presence in the army; Champion General Zhu Xiuzhi is loyal and reliable, also going all out. The million-strong armies of Jingzhou and Yongzhou are also setting out in succession, and the Shu Han army has already crossed the borders.
General Andong's birthday, General Zunkao of Pingxi, former Fumou General Xiao Sihua, General Lu Shuang of the Expeditionary Army, and former Ning Shuo General Wang Xuanmo all sent secret messages, and all regions responded to the call, issuing military orders across the Three Wu regions, and the troops rushed to the capital. Armies from all over, near and far, have mobilized, with banners flying for miles around. Warships race across the river, shrouded in mist; the army marches through the wilderness, trampling everything in their path. We have strategists with outstanding plans and brave soldiers who are ready and waiting, with hearts filled with righteous fury. The blessings of the former sage are gathered in the hearts of the people, in accordance with the will of heaven. This is the natural order of things. Without a homeland, there can be no world. The military orders have been issued, and various regions have responded. With such a vast army, who can stand against us? In such a righteous cause, how can we possibly lose? Moreover, the enemy has no popular support; both heaven and earth are outraged. They are merely a rabble, few in number and insignificant. Compared with the Zhou dynasty, they are not worth mentioning at all. Those wise men will look down on them. It's like using the water of the sea to extinguish fireflies, using mountains to crush eggs. What do the powers of the Shang and Zhou dynasties even matter? All of you, some of you are loyal for generations, receiving the emperor's grace; some of you have distinguished yourselves through loyalty and service. Regardless of the past, now we should all unite. Now that the enemy is approaching and the situation is critical, we should seize the opportunity to make contributions and wash away shame; if we cannot succeed, it may still be wise to abandon the enemy and return to the court; but if you persist in your wrong ways and continue to collaborate with the enemy, you will face severe punishment, and your entire family will be implicated. Rewards and punishments are as clear as day and night. I hope this great fire will reduce all opposing forces to ashes, and everyone will be safe and sound, without regrets. Once this decree is issued, it should be clear to all.
Shao considered himself well-versed in military affairs and told the courtiers, "You just need to help me with the paperwork; don't worry about military deployments. If the enemy attacks, I will personally lead the battle to ensure they dare not act recklessly!" The Chief Clerk Yin Chong was responsible for handling paperwork, General Yin Hong was in charge of military equipment, Xiao Bin was responsible for overall coordination, and strict security measures were implemented both inside and outside the palace. The Emperor's son was protected in the Lower Palace, while the sons of Prince Yixuan of Nanqiao were sheltered in an empty house in Taicang. Shao sent a letter to the Emperor saying, "I heard that you suddenly rebelled, taking up arms against the court. The courtiers are all outraged, and the people are furious. Historically, rebellions within royal families have always been crushed. Having read so many books, don't you grasp this principle? Now the Emperor is wise and martial; since ascending the throne, his grace has spread throughout the world, and the people are willing to sacrifice everything for him. You have been favored by the Emperor since childhood; the joyful days in the Eastern Palace feel like they were just yesterday, yet you have fallen for the slander of treacherous men, forgetting this favor. This is unjust, and both mortals and deities are outraged! The army and navy are fully prepared; the Emperor himself commands the army, while the Grand Preceptor leads additional troops to support. I and Prince Nanping Shuo are about to set off. The reason for not deploying troops earlier is in the hope that you will repent. These are just my thoughts, not fully expressed. The Emperor's favor towards you is very heavy. Now the Crown Prince (nickname Fashi) is in the palace; I thought you’d be interested in him, so I brought it up casually." The "Wuyang" mentioned in the letter refers to Prince Nanping Shuo, and "Fashi" is the milk name of the Emperor's heir.
Shao wanted to kill all the common people in the three towns. Jiangxia Wang Yigong and He Shang advised him, "Those who accomplish great things do not concern themselves with the affairs of ordinary families. Moreover, most of those common people are in a desperate situation. If you suddenly kill their families, it will only strengthen their determination to resist." Shao thought they made sense and ordered that no further questions be asked. Then he sent Chu Zhan to guard Shitou City, and Liu Sikao to guard Dongfu.
Jun and Xiao Bin advised Shao to lead the navy to launch a decisive battle from upstream. If that didn't work, they should defend Liangshan. Jiangxia Wang Yigong believed that the insurgent forces were hastily assembled, with crude ships unsuitable for naval warfare. He suggested, "The enemy is led by young generals who are inexperienced in battle. They are already exhausted from the long journey. We should wait for them to tire themselves out. If we venture too far from Liangshan, our capital will be left defenseless, and enemy forces from the east might exploit the situation. If our forces are spread too thin, they will lose cohesion. It is better to build up strength and wait for the right moment, waiting for their weaknesses to show." Shao accepted his advice. However, Xiao Bin sternly said, "The young Nan Zhonglang has accomplished such significant feats, which is truly difficult to estimate. The three forces are colluding, occupying the upstream. Shen Qingzhi is very knowledgeable in military affairs, and Liu Yuanjing and Zong Que have made significant contributions in battle. The situation is dire, and these are no ordinary foes. We should take advantage of the people's support while we still have it, and fight to the death. If we simply remain passive in the city, how can we survive? The commander and ministers have lost their will to fight; this is a sign from heaven!" Shao did not listen to him.
Shao suspected that the old officials of the court were not in his favor, so he promoted Wang Luohan and Lu Xiu, entrusting them with military matters and rewarding them with numerous treasures and beautiful women to curry favor with them. Luohan used to be the Right Army Captain of the Southern Ping King Shuo, and Shao held him in high regard for his military talent. Some advised Shao to hold onto the Stone City, but Shao replied, "The reason people held the Stone City in the past was to wait for the princes to come to their aid. If I stay here, who will come to my aid? We must fight with all our might; otherwise, we are doomed!" He personally inspected the camp every day, encouraged the soldiers, supervised the repair of ships by the water officials, set fire to the southern bank of the river, and drove the common people to the northern bank.
Then, he ordered the relevant departments to submit a report to appoint Zi Wei as the Crown Prince, appoint Chu Zhanzhi as the Grand Marshal, Dan Yang Yin, and establish a historian; appoint the General of the Cavalry, Shixing Wang Jun, as the Attendant, the Director of the Palace Library, the Minister of Works, and the Recorder of the Six Ministers; appoint the General of the Central Army, Southern Ping Wang Shuo as the Envoy, the Commander of the Southern Yanzhong, Yanzhong, Xu, Ji, and five states, the General of the Northern Expedition, the Chief of the Imperial Household, and the Governor of Southern Yanzhong; appoint the newly appointed General, Dan Yang Yin Jianping Wang Hong as the Cavalier, the Garrison General, and the Governor of Jiangzhou.
Pang Xiuzhi was the first to flee south from Stone City, which sent everyone into a panic. The court quickly appointed General Yiqi, also known as Yingdaohou, as the Governor of Xiangzhou, and Assistant General Tan Hezhi as the Western Zhonglang General and Governor of Yongzhou. The stage was set for a final confrontation with the rebels. On the nineteenth, the rebels arrived at Xinlin, and Liu Shao climbed the beacon tower of Stone City to observe the enemy from afar. On the twenty-first, the rebels advanced to Xinting. Meanwhile, Lu Xiu was stationed at Baishi, and Liu Shao summoned Lu Xiu and Wang Luohan to jointly guard the Vermilion Bird Gate. Xiao Bin led the infantry, Chu Zhanzhi led the navy, and the forces were deployed in a tight formation.
On the 22nd, Liu Shao sent Xiao Bin to lead ten thousand elite troops, including Lu Xiu and Wang Luohan, to attack the camp at Xinting. He himself also ascended the Zhuque Gate to personally oversee the battle. The soldiers knew that Liu Shao had invested heavily in rewards, and each of them fought to the death. Just as they were about to capture the camp, Lu Xiu suddenly withdrew his troops, giving Liu Yuanjing and his allies an opportunity to exploit the situation, leading to a complete defeat. Liu Shao then led his trusted followers to attack the camp, but was again defeated by Liu Yuanjing. Liu Shao hurriedly fled back to Tai City, while Xiao Bin was shot in the arm by a stray arrow. Chu Zhanzhi surrendered to Tan Hezhi with his two sons. Liu Shao was so terrified that he fled back to Tai City. That night, Lu Xiu also fled south.
At this time, Prince Yigong of Jiangxia wanted to occupy Shitou City, but Liu Shao had already instructed Jun and Xiao Bin to prepare for defense. Liu Shao also burned the military records in the capital, established new counties, and placed them all under the control of the Inspectorate, claiming it was for the people, but in reality, it was to solidify his rule. He appointed Wang Luohan, who was previously the General of the Front Army and Assistant General of the State, as the Left Guard General, with the title of Assistant General remaining unchanged. Wang Zhengjian, the Left Army General, was appointed as the Prince's Left Guard Commander, all aimed at winning the people's loyalty and securing his position. On the 25th, Yigong fled south alone, riding a horse, leaving through the Dongye Gate and crossing the Huai River at Yezhu. Wu Daoxing, the captain of Dongye Gate, was a student of Zang Zhi, and the military master of Yezhu, Yuan Zhisun, was an old subordinate of Emperor Song Shizu, which allowed Yigong to escape successfully. Liu Shao dispatched cavalry to pursue him, but by the time they arrived at Yezhu, Yigong had just crossed the Huai River. Yigong's aides and more than two thousand subordinates fled south together, many of whom were killed by the pursuing forces. Liu Shao also ordered the execution of several of Yigong's sons.
Liu Shao invited Jiang Hou's statue into the palace, kowtowed for blessings, and was then appointed as Grand Marshal, Prince of Zhongshan County, with a food estate of ten thousand households, and was also given the ritual axe. Su Hou was appointed as the General of Cavalry. Liu Shao also had Prince Nanping, Shuo, write a memorial condemning the crimes of Emperor Song Shizu, which was a complete inversion of the truth!
Jia Jun was appointed as the Governor of Nanxu and Kuaiji, overseeing military affairs, and also served as the Grand Tutor of the Crown Prince, Governor of Nanxu Province, with twenty sword-bearing guards assigned to him. General Who Conquers the North and Governor of Nanyan Province, Prince Nanping, Shuo, was promoted to General of Cavalry and collaborated with Jia Jun on official matters. On the 27th day, the Emperor officially proclaimed Xi Wei as the Crown Prince in the imperial palace, with all officials in military attire, except for Shao, who was dressed in civilian robes. A decree was then issued granting amnesty to all except for Shizu, Liu Yigong, Liu Yixuan, and Liu Dan, with no repercussions for their followers.
Previously, the court had sent Grand Tutor Yudao and Cavalry Attendant Zhu Hezhi to the east to resist Liu Dan. In May, the Grand Tutor Gu Binzhi and Liu Dan's vanguard forces arrived at Qu'a and clashed with Yudao, resulting in a major defeat for Liu Dan's army. Shao ordered the destruction of the Duoshui West Workshop and Left Imperial Factory, as well as the disruption of the Baigang Fangshan Dam, severing the eastern army's supply routes. He gathered all able-bodied men from the city and surrounding alleys to build war vessels along the Huai River, equipped with many large crossbows. He also sent the Commandant of Langye County, Yang Xizha, to block the waterways at Bandu and Baishi. By this time, all young men had been conscripted, resulting in women being conscripted for labor as well.
On the third day of the third month, Lu Xiu and his men recruited five hundred warriors to attack Dahang (shipyard on the Yangtze River), and indeed captured a large ship! Wang Luohan and his deputy Yang Shide were sent to recapture the ship, but Luohan was drunk on the ship, enjoying himself, when he suddenly learned that the government forces had crossed the river. In a panic, he quickly fired the cannons and surrendered. The flags and troops on Dahang scattered one after another, and weapons, war drums, and banners littered the streets and alleys.
That night, Xiao Daocheng closed the city gates, dug trenches, and erected barricades within the city gates, and even converted open-air carts into watchtowers. The city was in complete disarray. The magistrate of Danyang, Yin Hong, former general Meng Zongsi, and other officers all scaled the walls. Xiao Daocheng ordered the burning of his official carriage and the emperor's garments. When Xiao Bin heard that Dahang had fallen, he was at a loss and ordered his soldiers to disarm and surrender, sent people to the imperial palace to apologize, and then surrendered himself with a white flag, only to be executed on the spot.
On the fourth day of March, General Jiangxia Wang Yigong mounted the Zhuque Gate, leading the generals and dispatching Lu Xiu, Xue Andu, and Cheng Tianzuo directly to Xuanyang Gate. Xiao Daocheng's subordinates, including Xu Xingzu, Luo Xun, and Yu Qiu Yao'er, also surrendered with their troops. Xiao Daocheng had previously sent General Longxiang Chen Shuer to the east for a campaign, but he recalled him due to the urgent situation. On this day, Xiao Daocheng had just arrived at Jiangyang Gate when he spotted the imperial army in the distance, and his soldiers dropped their weapons and ran away. Xiao Daocheng's confidant Bai Zhi and other rebels initially camped outside the Changhe Gate, but later retreated back into the palace. Cheng Tianzuo, Xue Andu, and Deputy General Tan Jin seized the opportunity to rush in and successfully enter the palace. Xue Andu and military commanders Wu Nian, Song Yue, and others successively attacked the palace, as Zang Zhi's army stormed in through the Guangmo Gate. Everyone gathered in front of the Taiji Hall and immediately executed the Left Guard of the Prince, Wang Zhengjian. The seven princes, including Prince Jianping and Prince Donghai, all rushed out in tears. Xiao Daocheng fled to the well in the armory through a gap in the west wall and was captured by Deputy Gao Qin. Xiao Jun, along with dozens of subordinates, escaped from Ximing Gate with Prince Nanping, Xiao Shuo, and headed south. They met Jiangxia Wang Yigong in Yuecheng, and Xiao Jun dismounted and asked, "What are you planning to do now, Southern Commandant?" Yigong said, "There is no ruler in the world; all the officials are calling for the enthronement of a new ruler, and the emperor has heeded the people's will and is ready to take charge." He added, "Did you arrive too late?" Yigong said, "Indeed, it is too late." Xiao Jun asked again, "Is there still a way for me to avoid death?" Yigong said, "You can go to the palace to plead guilty." Xiao Jun asked, "I was wondering if you could offer me a position to serve?" Yigong said, "That's hard to say." So Yigong compelled Xiao Jun to return with him and killed him along the way. Xiao Jun, whose courtesy name was Xiuming, was born on a night when a hawk landed on the roof and called out.
When he was eight years old, in the thirteenth year of the Yuanjia era, he was appointed as the Prince of Shixing, a true little prince! By the sixteenth year, his career took off, and he directly became the military commander of Xiangzhou, also serving as the General and Governor of Xiangzhou—impressive, right? Not long after, he was promoted again, this time to an even higher rank: the military commander overseeing the five provinces of Nanyu, Yuzhou, Sizhou, Yongzhou, and Bingzhou, while still retaining his General duties.
In the seventeenth year, he was promoted to the Governor of Yangzhou, with his General position still intact, and he was also given subordinates to lead troops—a pretty impressive sight! However, the good times didn't last; in the nineteenth year, his mansion was taken away. But no need to worry, two years later, in the twenty-first year of Yuanjia, he was appointed as a Cavalier Attendant, and his official position rose to the General of the Central Army. The ups and downs of his career were quite a ride!
Next year, Jun reported to the emperor: "Wu Xing County, under my jurisdiction, is surrounded by mountains, with low-lying and wet land, where numerous springs converge. The slow progress and frequent blockages of flood control projects have caused floods shortly after a little rain. Some farmers are forced to halt planting in the spring, while others have their crops submerged in autumn. The people are suffering immensely and have no means to protect themselves. The land in Wu Xing is fertile and has a large population, and a year of good harvest can supply the capital with grains. However, if there is a flood, several counties will be affected. In recent years, poor harvests have outnumbered good ones. While the court's disaster relief efforts have been substantial, it has also depleted a large amount of national treasury reserves. The losses to the country and the people have not ended yet. The people of Wu Xing, represented by Yao Qiao, who has a good understanding of the situation, believe that Wu Xing, Kuai Ji, Jin Ling, and Yi Xing all flow into Taihu Lake, but the Songjiang and Hu Du rivers are blocked, causing widespread flooding. He suggested digging a canal from the Zhu Xi in Wu Kang to Taihu Lake, all the way to the mouth of the sea, about a hundred miles, to keep the waterways open. He personally surveyed and measured for more than twenty years. During the flood in the eleventh year, he had already mentioned this proposal to the former governor, Shen Yikang, and sent his registrar, Sheng Yantai, to survey with Yao Qiao, but they disagreed and the matter was shelved. Since this involves such great interests, it should be studied carefully. Therefore, the court sent the official Shi Yuchangsun and the governor of Wu Xing, Kong Shanshi, to conduct a field survey, examine the topography, evaluate the elevation changes, and the source and flow direction of the rivers. They conducted on-site surveys, drew maps, and performed detailed calculations, and after their investigation, they believed that this plan was feasible. These four counties are all suffering from the same water disaster, not just Wu Xing County. If this waterway is opened, many places will benefit. While it may be challenging initially, it will ultimately lead to lasting peace. However, this project is huge and difficult to start. Now, it is suggested to initially open a small canal to test the water flow, and immediately arrange for the people near Wucheng, Wukang, and Dongqian counties to start construction. If feasible, the scale will be expanded later, with a detailed report to follow. In ancient times, the proposals made by the generals Shi Qi and Bi Zhong of the State of Zheng benefited future generations. Although Yao Qiao's suggestion seems ordinary, if it is indeed feasible, it can benefit the region." The emperor approved his proposal; however, the project ultimately did not succeed.
Paragraph 2: The emperor approved Jun's memorial and approved the plan to first open a small canal as a trial. This is like conducting a small experiment first to see the results before deciding on large-scale construction. This reflects a cautious approach to governance, trying a small experiment first before making large investments to avoid wasting unnecessary resources. This is similar to the ancient saying, "If you fail to prepare, you will fail." Although the final project was not successful, from Jun's memorial, we can see his thoughtful consideration for the people and his serious attitude towards managing water disasters. He not only detailed the severity of the water disasters, analyzed the reasons, proposed specific solutions, but also conducted on-site inspections and justifications. This reflects his sense of responsibility and commitment as an official. The emperor's approval of his proposal also reflects the court's emphasis on the people's livelihood. Although the "work ultimately failed," this memorial alone demonstrates the hardships of managing water disasters at that time and the determination of officials to advocate for the people. This phrase "work ultimately failed" is also worth pondering, reminding us that even the best plans require careful implementation and long-term effort to ultimately succeed.
When I was twenty-three years old, I started to be in charge of the wind band, which involved playing wind and percussion instruments. After three years, at the age of twenty-six, I received several official titles, suddenly becoming the General of the Army, Governor of South Xu and Yanzhou, General of the Northern Expedition, Prefect of the Palace, Governor of South Xu and Yanzhou, while still keeping the position of Palace Attendant. These titles sound impressive, right? Two years later, at the age of twenty-eight, I sent Jun to lead the army to build the city on Guabu Mountain, while also addressing some issues in Nanyanzhou. Another two years passed, and at the age of thirty, I was promoted again! This time, it was even more impressive, as I became the General of the Army overseeing Jing, Yong, Yi, Liang, Ning, and both North and South Qin, General of the Guard, Prefect of the Palace, Governor of Jingzhou, and Commander of the Southern Barbarian Guard. I still retained the positions of General and Palace Attendant as usual. The higher my official position, the more regions I was responsible for, and the greater the responsibility.
Prince Li Jun loved reading from a young age and was also quite handsome. His mother, Lady Pan Shufei, was highly favored, and since there was no empress in the palace at that time, she managed its affairs. Li Jun not only looked good but also had talent. With his mother's favor, the Emperor Taizu paid special attention to him. Prince Jianping Liu Hong, Attendant Wang Sengchuo, and Imperial Secretary Cai Xingzong often exchanged poetry and essays with him.
Initially, Empress Yuan was jealous of Lady Pan Shufei's favor and was very angry, eventually leading to her death. Therefore, Li Shao deeply hated the Pan family and Li Jun. Li Jun was worried about future retaliation from Li Shao, so he deliberately tried to please him, and their relationship became very good. Li Jun later made many mistakes and was repeatedly reprimanded by the Emperor, which made him quite fearful. So, he and Li Shao began to engage in witchcraft together.
Later, Li Jun was sent to guard Jingkou, and he was allowed to bring two thousand civil and military officials from Yangzhou with him, enjoying a carefree life outside the capital. After spending several years there, he lost control of Nanyanzhou and wanted to return to the court. Prince Luling Xiao Shao resigned as governor of Yangzhou due to illness, while Prince Jiangxia Xiao Yigong was stationed outside. Li Jun believed that the position of governor of Yangzhou should rightfully belong to him, but the Emperor gave this position to Prince Nanqiao Xiao Yixuan, which left Li Jun feeling quite disgruntled.
Therefore, he requested to be stationed in Jiangling through Xu Yuan, the Gentleman of the Household Department, and sought help from the Minister of Works, Xu Zhanzhi. However, the Minister of Works, He Shangzhi, and others believed that Li Jun, as the prince's brother, should not be sent to such a distant place. The Emperor believed that such important states should be managed by loyal subjects, so he ultimately appointed Li Jun as the governor of Jiangling. After entering the court, the Emperor asked him to return to the capital and manage the matters before his departure.
A few days after Li Jun returned to the capital, the witchcraft incident came to light in July of the twenty-ninth year of the Zhenguan era. The emperor sighed for several days about this and said to Consort Pan Shu, "The Crown Prince is scheming for wealth and power; he has ulterior motives! 'Hu Tou' is acting like he did before; I really didn't expect this! How can you and your son leave me for even a day?" ("Hu Tou" is Li Jun's nickname). The emperor privately reprimanded Li Jun harshly through his confidant Zhu Fayu, with a tone of great sorrow, and even wrote to him, "You must have heard about the parrot incident; how could you be so reckless? Besides, who is Shen Huaiyuan? How could he possibly help you cover this up?" The emperor had Zhu Fayu scold him in person, then put down his pen, sighed, and lamented. Li Jun was ashamed and afraid, not knowing how to respond.
Li Jun originally returned to the capital just to temporarily leave for a while, but the emperor was angry and did not allow him to go back. In December of that year, the Central Secretariat Minister, Cai Xingzong, asked Prince Jianping Liu Hong, "This year is almost over; when will the General of the Northern Expedition return?" Liu Hong sighed and took a long time to say, "He may not be able to return within this year." During his time in the capital, Li Jun had secret meetings with Shen Huaiyuan, who had been appointed as a military officer in Changhai. Every night, Li Jun secretly opened the side door to meet Shen Huaiyuan. When the emperor learned of this, he executed Li Jun's favored concubine, Yang Chengxian.
In the second year of the first month, the situation in Jingzhou was still unresolved. In the second month, Li Jun returned to the court. On the fourteenth day, he received an imperial decree from the emperor. That day, the case of Yan Daoyu came to light, and the next day Li Jun went to thank the emperor, who looked furious. That night, the emperor sternly questioned him, and Li Jun repeatedly confessed. Lady Pan Shufei held Li Jun and cried, saying, "When the incident of witchcraft and curse was exposed, I hoped you would reflect and repent, but I didn't expect you to hide Yan Daoyu! The emperor is very angry with you; even if I beg on my knees, he will not easily forgive you. What meaning is there in you being alive now? Hurry and have someone bring medicine; I will kill myself first, I can't bear the thought of you suffering!" Li Jun pushed her away and said, "Everything in this world has its own judgment; please don't worry, I will not involve you."
That morning, Shao killed the emperor. Jun was in Xizhou at the time, and his retainer Zhu Fayu hurriedly ran to tell him, "The palace is in complete chaos, the palace gates are closed, and the streets are all saying the Crown Prince is rebelling; we don't know what major events might unfold." Jun was terrified and asked, "What should we do now?" Zhu Fayu advised him to quickly occupy Shitou City. Jun had not received news from Shao and didn't know the outcome of the situation; he was in a panic and didn't know what to do. General Wang Qing said, "There is chaos in the palace now, the safety of the emperor is unknown; as courtiers, we must step forward. We should immediately go to rescue; staying put on the city walls is not what courtiers do!" Jun didn't listen to him; he exited the city through the south gate and went straight to Shitou City, accompanied by over a thousand officials and soldiers. At that moment, Prince Nanping Shuo was stationed at Shitou City, with over a thousand soldiers there.
Before long, Shao sent Zhang Chao to ride and summon Jun. Jun dismissed his attendants, asked for details, immediately put on his military uniform, mounted his horse, and left. Zhu Fayu strongly advised Jun against it, but Jun did not listen. When he got to the main gate, Wang Qing tried to persuade him again: "The Crown Prince has rebelled, and everyone in the world resents him. If you just hold the city gates and relax with the food you have, in at most three days, those rebels will disperse on their own. What is the point of leaving now?" Jun angrily shouted, "If anyone dares to say another word against the Crown Prince's orders, you'll be executed!" When he got to Shao's, Jun advised Shao to kill Xun Chisong and the others. Shao informed Jun that Lady Pan Shufei had been killed by the rioters. Jun shockingly replied, "This is what the common folks have been hoping for!" He was so rebellious!
Word has it that Shao was on the verge of death, and someone suggested he make a run for the sea. They then moved many treasures and silk onto the ship and wrote him a note that said, "The ship’s not ready yet. Tonight, all the items must be moved, and you must quickly order to reward the ships! Ni (Yan Daoyu) has already entered the city, and tomorrow we will have a decisive battle with him! I think the Emperor should personally come here to preside over the situation; otherwise, we won't be able to control it!" So, everyone panicked and ignored the plan. The "Ni" they mentioned in the letter is actually Yan Daoyu.
Later, Shao committed suicide by jumping into a well, but he was pulled out by Gao Qin. Shao asked Gao Qin, "Where is the emperor?" Gao Qin replied, "The emperor is near Xinting now." They brought Shao to the palace, where Zang Zhi saw him and cried bitterly. Shao said, "The heavens and earth can no longer bear me; why are you crying, my old friend?" Zang Zhi then revealed the truth about Shao's rebellion, saying, "The late emperor was wrongly killed; you shouldn't be treated like a criminal! I asked Xiao Bin, and it was Xiao Bin who advised me to do this." Shao then asked Zang Zhi, "Can you help me plead for mercy and let me be exiled far away?" Zang Zhi replied, "The emperor is currently in Hangnan; it's up to the emperor to decide." So they tied Shao on a horse and escorted him to the military camp.
At the military camp, Shao surveyed his surroundings from the horse, and General Yigong of Jiangxia and other princes came to see him. Yigong questioned Shao, "I surrendered; what grave crime did I commit to deserve my entire family of twelve children to be killed?" Shao replied, "I am sorry for what happened to your brothers. I apologize to your father." Jiang Zhan's wife Yu Shi sat in the car and scolded him, and Pang Xiuzhi joined in with harsh rebukes. Shao shouted loudly, "Are you people not tired of this?" They first executed Shao's four sons, turning to King Shuo of Nanping and saying, "What is this!" Finally, they killed Shao in the military camp. Before he died, Shao sighed, "I never imagined that as a member of the royal family, I would find myself in such a predicament."
It is said that Shao and Jun, along with Shao's four sons—Weizhi, Dizhi, Binzhi—and an unnamed child... Jun's three sons Changwen, Changren, and Changdao all had their heads chopped off and their bodies thrown into the street for public display. Shao's wife, Yinshi, was sentenced to death by the court. Before her death, she said to the chief jailer Jiang Ke, "Your family has killed each other like this; why do you falsely accuse innocent people of killing them?" Jiang Ke replied, "She was set to become queen; isn’t that a crime?" Yinshi let out a cold laugh, "This is just temporary power; maybe one day even a parrot can become queen!" Jun's wife, Chushi, who was the daughter of the Dan Yang magistrate Zhan Zhi, cut ties with Jun when Zhan Zhi fled south, so she escaped unscathed. The other children and concubines were executed in prison.
The bodies of Shao and Jun were thrown into the river, and their other accomplices, including Wang Luohan, were all executed. Zhang Chao heard news of the mutiny and fled to the ruins of the He Dian, right next to the imperial bed, where he was brutally killed by the mutineers. They sliced open his abdomen, pulled out his heart, dismembered his flesh, and the soldiers even devoured his flesh raw, finally burning his skull. At that time, the imperial seal was missing, so they asked Shao, who told them it was with Yan Daoyu. They found the seal there. Daoyu and the parrot were both whipped to death in the crowded marketplace, then their bodies were burned at the base of Shitou Siwang Mountain, and their ashes were scattered into the river. The building where Shao lived in the East Palace was also demolished, leaving it in a filthy and desolate state.
Gao Qin was appointed as the man of Xinyang County, with a fief of three hundred households. Pan Shufei was posthumously honored as Lady of Changning Garden, and her tomb was maintained for her. The acting commander Yin Chong and the Dan Yang official Yin Hong were both sentenced to death. Yin Chong was the one who drafted the edict for Shao Cao and was also the uncle of Pan Shufei. On the morning of the twenty-first day of the second month, Yin Hong went to court and, upon hearing about the incident in the palace, he led the imperial soldiers from the city to the lower pavilion. Upon hearing that Shao had entered the palace, he quickly reported the incident and requested to be punished. He also helped Shao arrange the soldiers with all his heart. Yin Hong, from Tianshui, Jizhou, was the younger brother of the governor of Sizhou, Yin Chong. He had always been trusted by Emperor Taizu, and during the Yuanjia period, he held various high-ranking positions in the court, arranging all the high and low official positions.
Historians say: Ah, the affairs of the Song family are really difficult! Since the Xia Dynasty, when Emperor Xushi established the country, unified the world, and declared himself emperor, there has never been such a disaster. Only the Jing Kingdom and the Ju Kingdom abandoned the etiquette of the Huaxia people, changed into barbarian clothing, and King Wuling of the Hu people also abandoned the rules and regulations of the Huaxia people. These acts of violence all started from small things, but because the roots of the calamity were deep, they eventually only affected this generation. The rise of calamity is destined by heaven, but the corruption originates from within; the values of filial piety, brotherhood, loyalty, and integrity have vanished in an instant, and the common people did not perish because of this, which is a small mercy! Ah, the things of the Song Dynasty are really hard to describe! Since the Xia Dynasty, how many emperors and generals have established dynasties and dominated one region, yet never have we seen such chaos. Only the Jing Kingdom and the Ju Kingdom, who did not learn well at that time, abandoned our Huaxia traditions, imitated the barbarian's appearance, and King Wuling even practiced barbarian dress and archery, which deviated from the rules passed down by our ancestors. These acts of violence and chaos built up over time, but the roots of the calamity were too deep, and in the end, only this generation was affected, which can be considered fortunate!
Think about it, if this chaos continues, the common people will suffer. This chaos is a divine calamity, but the source of this filth is found within the inner court. Filial piety towards parents and respect for elders—these fundamental principles of respect and duty have vanished. The common people are fortunate to have escaped being consumed by this chaos.
