Real Histories
The Book of Southern Qi consists of 59 chapters in total, divided into eight volumes of annals, eleven volumes of records, and forty biographies, written by Xiao Zixian, a historian of the Liang Dynasty. Before Jiang Yan, ten volumes of records had already been written, and Shen Yue also wrote the "Annals of Qi," but Xiao Zixian voluntarily requested to write this Book of Southern Qi, specifically recording the achievements of Emperor Wu of Qi. We are responsible for proofreading the errors in the book and then organizing the table of contents, like this:
The purpose of this historical work is to summarize the successes and failures in history, learn from them and warn future generations. In order to achieve this goal, historical facts must be recorded accurately to ensure their lasting legacy. This underscores the significance of writing historical works. However, if qualified individuals are not found to write these records, various problems may arise: either distorting the true intent of history, obscuring the truth of history, lacking logical coherence, or having poor literary style. Therefore, even if the book records some remarkable achievements and virtues, they may appear obscure and unable to be fully displayed due to these problems; while deceitful, malicious, and sinister events may be obscured.
Let's take a closer look at this. The great historians of ancient times must possess a profound understanding of the principles governing the world, their methods must be versatile enough for various contexts, their wisdom must allow them to grasp complex meanings, and their writing must vividly convey complex emotions, to be regarded as qualified historians. Why is that the case?
Think about it, during the times of Tang, Yao, and Shun, they possessed sacred virtues and deep moral refinement. Their actions were indescribable, their virtues were incomprehensible; this serves as the foundation for governing the world. The decrees they issued and the laws they established were extremely concise in language but very comprehensive in content; this is the tool for governing the world. The authors of the two volumes of the "Book of Documents" have clearly explained all of this. Is what they recorded merely the superficial aspects of things? They also conveyed the profound meanings. Major events and minor details, precision and lack of detail—nothing was overlooked; fundamentals and details, sequence of events, nothing was unclear. Those who read these records feel as if they are there; to understand their intentions feels as if facing the parties involved. Is it not fair to say that their understanding encompasses the principles of all things in the world, their methods can adapt to various purposes in the world, their wisdom can comprehend those difficult-to-understand meanings, and their writing can express those difficult-to-express emotions thoroughly? So, in that era, were the officials in power only talented individuals? Those who wielded the pen were also disciples of the sages.
Since the Han Dynasty, historians have significantly lagged behind. Thousands of years after the era of the Five Emperors and Three Kings, after the burning of books and burying of scholars in the Qin Dynasty, Sima Qian collected and organized bit by bit from the remaining classics and biographies of various schools, recorded the traces of good and evil, the reasons for rise and fall, and created his own work, including annals, hereditary houses, tables, books, and biographies; this can certainly be considered quite remarkable. However, did he not obscure the laws of the sages? Are there not places where right and wrong are confused, and mistakes in selection? Is it not accurate to say that his understanding falls short of fully grasping the principles of all things, his methods are insufficient to adapt to various purposes in the world, his wisdom is insufficient to comprehend those difficult-to-understand meanings, and his writing is insufficient to express those difficult-to-express emotions thoroughly?
Since the third generation, people who write history like Sima Qian are undoubtedly regarded as talented and outstanding figures. However, we still have to say that his understanding is insufficient to grasp the complexities of all things in the world, his methods lack the versatility to suit various contexts, his wisdom falls short of uncovering those elusive meanings, and his writing fails to convey those complex emotions effectively. What accounts for this? Because the realm of the sages is too profound; Sima Qian certainly cannot fully understand their thoughts and feelings, nor express them completely, so he cannot reach that height. This encapsulates Sima Qian's successes and failures; what about others? And that's not even to mention the historical books of the Song, Qi, Liang, Chen, Later Wei, and Later Zhou dynasties.
As for Zixian, he particularly likes to freely express himself in his writings, making numerous revisions and embellishing his language. However, the quality of his writing has been declining. Could it be that his talent was inherently limited and could not be forced? Historical records spanning several generations portray him this way, leaving his deeds quite obscure. Although there are some monarchs and ministers who conspired with him for fame and fortune, they failed to make his achievements widely recognized. And those who were greedy, unreasonable, and went against the norm at that time were lucky enough not to leave a bad name in history. Isn't this a result of their poor choices in allies? What a shame!
You see, the purpose of historical books is to elucidate the principles of governing the world, so those who write history must be among the best talents to effectively fulfill this role and clarify events. This cannot be done carelessly! Chen Xun, Chen Baochen, Chen Mu, Chen Zao, Ju Zhu, Chen Jue, Chen Yanruo, and Chen Gong respectfully present the index, risking their lives to submit it.
The Rui Rui are a minority ethnic group from beyond the Great Wall; they wear their hair in braids and their clothing overlaps left over right. During the Jin Dynasty, when Shi Le, a prominent figure, entered the territory within the Great Wall, the Rui Rui people migrated in search of grass and water, occupying the lands previously occupied by the Xiongnu and even conquering the Western Regions. Their homeland experiences early cold weather, and they live in round felt tents. They carve wood for record-keeping but are illiterate. They have many horses, fat cattle and sheep, a large population, and have long been at odds with the Wei Kingdom.
During the Song Dynasty, the Rui Rui had a prime minister named Xi Liyin, who was knowledgeable in astronomy, astrology, and fortune-telling, and was fluent in both Hu and Chinese. He often said that a person with the surname Qi would rise to power in the south. In the second year of Shengming, the regent dispatched General Wang Honggui of the cavalry to establish contact with the Rui Rui and agreed to attack the Wei Kingdom together. In August of the first year of Jianyuan, the Rui Rui king led three hundred thousand cavalry southward, coming within seven hundred li of Pingcheng, and the Wei Kingdom's army did not dare to engage in battle. After hunting at the foot of Yanran Mountain, the Rui Rui king returned. The emperor had just taken the throne and was too busy to dispatch troops. In the following years, the Rui Rui king repeatedly sent envoys to offer gifts such as sable fur, and wrote letters to the emperor expressing a desire to join forces against the Wei Kingdom, addressing the emperor as "Your Majesty" while referring to himself as "I." They also presented trousers and pleated skirts made of lion skin, with fur that resembled tiger skin but was white and very short. At that time, a Hu merchant from the Shu region saw them and claimed that it was not lion skin at all, but rather the skin of an animal known as Fuba.
Prime Minister Xing Jiqi Luo reported back, stating:
Speaking of the world, everything is the result of the interplay of yin and yang, cycling through changes. This law has been the same since ancient times. In the past, the Jin Dynasty was on the brink of collapse, but thanks to King Huan of Chu seizing power, Emperor Wu of Song came to the rescue and restored peace to the realm. However, by the ninth generation of the Song Dynasty, there was no heir. Now disasters are descending from the heavens, and the Song Dynasty is in turmoil. Although I am in a remote place, I have some knowledge of astronomy and geography. Based on historical records and celestial phenomena, there have been significant changes in the stars in recent years. The Fang and Xin constellations have shown unusual signs, while Xu and Wei have also changed. All these signs indicate that the Song Dynasty is going to perish and the Qi Dynasty is going to rise. It is now a period of decline in water and the rise of the Wood element. Next year will be the Year of the Earth Rat. According to the records of Liu Muzhi, there is an uninhabitable area on Mount Yanling. The prophecy of Jing Fang states: "On the 16th day of the Metal Rabbit, the grass will wither and respond to the king." Looking at these historical records and celestial omens, they all point to the Xiao clan replacing the Song Dynasty and establishing the Qi Dynasty.
Furthermore, I have heard that envoys from the Qi Kingdom have visited here, inspecting the virtues of the Xiao clan, further proving that the Xiao clan is heaven's chosen. The Xiao clan is able to inherit the throne, consolidate political power, support inept rulers, overcome difficulties, establish merits in the capital, and intimidate overseas. His accomplishments rival those of King Tang and King Wu. Thus he ascended to the throne and ultimately met a favorable end. Moreover, there is no eternal dynasty in the imperial family; only those with virtue can prosper. The time has come; only those with talent can succeed. Your Majesty, now is a good time to take on the great cause, following the alignment of heaven, earth, and humanity. The time has come; you should have claimed the throne long ago. The people in distant lands are eagerly awaiting your leadership! If you do not raise an army now, you would be defying the will of heaven and the people's wishes, and disappointing the expectations of the people.
The Xiao clan inherited the throne, originating from the dual forces of yin and yang, expanded their territory, pacified the people, and maintained vast lands for hundreds of years, all of which was predestined by heaven. Although Wu and Han are far from the Central Plains, their relationship is as close as lips and teeth, preparing to conquer the Central Plains and carrying out divine retribution. It is now time to organize the troops and wait for the right moment, brandishing their frost-like spears in Bingzhou and Daizhou, beating war drums in Qinzhou and Zhaozhou, defeating the enemy and rooting out the treacherous. Then, the emperor will relocate the capital and restore the Central Plains, ensuring lasting friendly relations, emulating the prosperous scenes of the Qi and Lu countries. Let the world be at peace, the people live in peace and contentment, the barren land flourish once more; wouldn't that be wonderful?
In the year 483 AD, Wang Honggui returned to the capital after a journey of over 30,000 li! Wang Honggui was from Linzi, Qi County, deeply trusted by Emperor Taizu. He served as the governor of Qingzhou and Jizhou during the Jianwu period, but returned in disgrace after losing a battle against northern ethnic minorities due to illegal land occupation.
Rui Rui Wang (referring to the Khan of the Rouran) requested doctors and some items from the court, and Emperor Wendi replied: "I understand you need doctors, weavers, compasses, and sundials, but these are not items I am particularly inclined to provide. The methods of treating illnesses in the south are different from those in the north; most weavers are women, and the journey is long and not suitable for such long-distance travel. While there may be compasses and sundials, the craftsmen who could make them are long gone; giving them to you would be futile."
King Rui Rui has been living in his old territory among the Xiongnu for ten years. However, the Dingling people came from the south and reclaimed King Rui Rui's original territory. King Rui Rui was forced to migrate south. The Emperor of the Wei Kingdom, Tuoba Hong, felt that King Rui Rui was too close to him, so he sent the so-called King Pingyuan, Hunchun, who drove the deer, along with General Yang Yan, to lead hundreds of thousands of cavalry against King Rui Rui. It happened to be a heavy snowstorm, and many soldiers and horses perished from freezing and starvation. Prior to this, Liu Quan, the Governor of Yizhou, sent Jiang Jingxuan to convey the court's authority to the Dingling. Passing through Shanshan and Yutian, it turned out that Shanshan had already been attacked by the Dingling, causing the people to scatter. The people of Yutian were particularly devoted to Buddhism. The Dingling even claimed to be the sovereign, warmly hosting Jiang Jingxuan before sending him back. King Rui Rui had always traveled the route through Henan to Yizhou.
Henan was the territory of the Xiongnu people. During the Jianwu period of the Han Dynasty, many Xiongnu captives escaped to the area around Liangzhou and mingled with the local population, totaling several thousand. At that time, these Xiongnu captives were called "zilu." Tuyuhun, the half-brother of Murong Hui, the Xianbei ruler, became the king of the Di people. His territory stretched thousands of miles across the northwest of Yizhou. The southern boundary was Longhe City, located over a thousand miles from Chengdu. Tuyuhun's forces were stationed at four locations—Qingshuichuan, Chishui, Jiaoriver, and Tuquzhengchuan—all commanded by his sons and soldiers. The palace of King Tuyuhun was located in Mujia Chuan. They mainly relied on grazing for a living, migrating with water and grass, with no cities to speak of. Eventually, they began to construct some palaces and houses, but the common folk continued to live in felt tents. The region was cold and windy year-round, with sand swirling everywhere across the flat terrain, leaving no trace behind. In fertile areas, sparrows and mice coexisted, and yellow and purple flowers bloomed; in barren areas, miasma hung thick, causing suffocation upon inhalation, and causing animals to become exhausted and unable to walk from exhaustion. The Tuyuhun clan was enfeoffed from the early Song Dynasty to the late Song Dynasty, with Tuyuhun Shiyin holding several military titles in Henan, including Commissioner-in-Chief, Imperial Secretariat, and Commander of the Western Qin, He, and Sha, Grand General of Chariots and Cavalry, Supervisor of the Qiang, and Inspector of Western Qin and He.
In the first year of the Jianyuan era, Emperor Taizu appointed Shi Yin as the Grand General of the Valiant Cavalry. During the Song Dynasty, General Wang Shiwu was sent on a diplomatic mission to Henan. In that year, Wang Shiwu accompanied Shi Yin to the capital to present tribute. The Emperor replied: "The Emperor respectfully inquires about you, the Imperial Commissioner, Cavalier Attendant-in-Ordinary of the Scattered Cavalry, Commander of Military Affairs in the Three Provinces of Xi, Qin, and Sha, Grand General of Chariots and Cavalry, Supervisor of the Palace, Chief Commandant of the Qiang Guards, Governor of the Two Provinces of Xi, Qin, and He, newly appointed Grand General of the Valiant Cavalry, and King of Henan: I received your memorial and was deeply moved. You have made significant contributions to the nation, and I hold you in high regard. After Wang Shiwu arrived, I received your memorial of the 21st day of the fifth month of the fifth year of Yuanhui. The midsummer weather is hot and humid, and I hope you are well. Your outstanding achievements in defending the borders are well recognized. I hereby decree to elevate your title in recognition of your loyalty. Wang Shiwu will bring the decree to formally confer your new official position. I have also instructed Wang Shiwu and others to go to Rui Rui. Please arrange their journey to ensure they arrive safely. I have received the horses and other items you presented. I will send you a separate list of your specific rewards, including silk fabrics in colors like brocade, crimson, green, yellow, and blue, with ten pieces of each."
Yiduhou has been fascinated by astronomy since he was a child, always dreaming of having an astronomy book to read. However, he kept asking the court for one, but they never obliged. Later, three years after Yiduhou's death, the court appointed Tuyuhun Yiduhou, the Prince of Henan, as the Commissioner and Commander of Military Affairs in the three provinces of West Qin—He and Sha—General Who Pacifies the West, Chief Warden of the Qiang, Inspector of the Two Provinces of West Qin, and Prince of Henan. These were no small titles. In the third year of Yongming, the Emperor decreed, "Yiduhou served in the western frontier, pacifying the border residents, and achieved remarkable results. I’m really pleased! He is promoted to Grand General of Chariots and Cavalry!" He then sent Qiu Guanxian, an attendant, to Henan Province, along with Rui Rui as an envoy. Qiu Guanxian didn't return until the sixth year of Yongming, bringing back a jade piece measuring three feet two inches long and one foot one inch thick.
After the death of Duke Yidu, eight years later, his son Xiuliumao succeeded him, serving as the commander-in-chief, inspector of military affairs for the three provinces of Xi, Qin, and Sha, general of the Western Frontier, commander of the Qiang Guards, and governor of the provinces of Xi and Qin. The court also sent General Zhenwu Qiu Guanxian to appoint him and offer condolences. When Qiu Guanxian arrived in Henan, Xiuliumao insisted that Qiu Guanxian pay his respects first, but Qiu Guanxian refused to kneel. Xiuliumao felt that he had lost face for their country, so he pushed Qiu Guanxian off a cliff, resulting in his fatal fall into a deep valley. This Qiu Guanxian, styled Daoxuan, was a native of Wuxing and the sixth great-grandson of Minister of Personnel Jie of the Jin Dynasty. When the emperor initially sent Qiu Guanxian, he specifically sought the advice of Minister Wang Jian, who replied, "This person is absolutely competent." That's why the emperor sent him a second time. After Qiu Guanxian's death, the emperor reassured his son Qiu Xiong, saying, "Your father was sent on a mission to Henan, loyal to his duties, and did not disgrace his mission until death. I admire him greatly. Although he died on the border and his body cannot be retrieved, this will not hinder your future career; in fact, it may even help you." He then rewarded Qiu Xiong with 100,000 coins and 30 pieces of cloth.
The Yang clan of the Di tribe, like the Fu Di tribe, are both from Lueyang. During the Han Dynasty, they lived in Qiuchi, also known as Baiqing. During the Jian'an period, there was a Di king of Baiqing. In the Jin Dynasty, a Yang Mao Yuyao emerged, and they gradually became more powerful. For more details, you can refer to previous historical records. Qiuchi is surrounded by steep cliffs on all sides, naturally forming walls and watchtowers, several zhang in height. There are twenty-two paths to climb up, with a main gate on the east and west, a winding mountain road seven li long, and hills, springs, and streams on the mountain. The Di people built palaces, orchards, and warehouses on the flat land at the mountaintop, regardless of wealth; their houses were made of wooden boards and earthen walls. The area they inhabited was known as Luogu.
In the year 442 AD, General Pei Fangming of Long Xiang went to fight against the Di tribe and captured Chouchi. Later, they were defeated by the Wei army and lost their territory. The king of the Di tribe, Yang Nandang's cousin Yang Wende, gathered troops in Qalu and was given a title by the Emperor of the Song Dynasty. After Wende's death, his brothers Yang Sengsi and Yang Wenqing inherited his position. Nandang's younger brother Yang Guangxiang had previously defected to the enemy. During the Yuanhui era, the enemy attacked and killed Wenqing, and appointed Guangxiang as the Lord of Yinping and the ruler of Qalu. Wenqing's brother Yang Wenhong became the Governor of Baishui, stationed in Wuxing. The court also appointed him as the Deputy General of the State, the Inspector of Beiqin Prefecture, the Prince of Wudu, and the Duke of Chouchi.
After the founding emperor ascended the throne, he wanted to pacify people of different ethnicities. In the first year of Jianyuan, the emperor decreed: "In the past, those remote small countries who came to pay tribute, their good reputation is recorded in history books. Different ethnic groups who submit to the court, their names are also passed down in history. The traitor Yang Guangxiang, the Lord of Qalu and the Duke of Yinping County, had grievances with his relatives and caused turmoil. During the Song Dynasty, he surrendered to the enemy with his territory. When Qalu was lost, Huayang was once alarmed. We sent envoys to go first, to spread the emperor's prestige. Guangxiang and his people recalled the loyalty of their ancestors, admired the benevolence of our new dynasty, and humbly requested to submit, restoring a thousand miles of land. The various ethnic groups such as the Di and Qiang tribes all submitted together. We should promptly accept and properly pacify them. Guangxiang, who has found his way back, should be considered for promotion. His subordinates and commanders should also be rewarded based on their contributions." He was then appointed as the Supervisor of Military Affairs in Shazhou, the Pacification Colonel of the Qiang, and the Inspector of Shazhou. He was soon promoted to the General of Pacifying the Barbarians.
The Governor of Liangzhou, Fan Bainian, was killed. His general, Li Wunu, fearing betrayal, sought refuge with Wen Hong. Wunu led over a thousand fugitives to attack Liangzhou, but was defeated by Governor Wang Xuanmiao and fled back to the Di region. The Governor of Jingzhou, Prince Yuzhang, sent troops to deal with Li Wunu and ordered that anyone who could kill Wunu and bring his head would be rewarded with his own county, as well as Wunu's lands, houses, and properties. Prince Yuzhang also wrote a letter to Yang Guangxiang saying: "The rise and fall of the world, the principles of success and failure have always been the same. Whether smart or foolish, everyone can see it clearly. Fan Bainian, the Governor of Liangzhou, has been indecisive and should have been dealt with a long time ago. Now that Fan Bainian has been captured and Li Wunu defeated multiple times, the remaining soldiers will soon collapse on their own. I am sending General Wang Daobao, Colonel Ren Shizhi, and Governor Wang Anhui of Dangqu to lead three thousand elite soldiers, to advance as swift as the wind and as fierce as lightning. I have also ordered General Ming Huizhao, Governor Lu Xiulie, Governor Liu Hongcheng, and Governor Fu Yan of Yizhou to select their best soldiers and hurry to provide support. The troops from Yongzhou are gathering in Weixing, and with the support of the expatriates and veteran troops from Shandong, they will converge in Nanzheng. Some will travel by boat down the river, others will ride horses swiftly, attacking from all sides, with a momentum like a knife through bamboo."
Yang Wenhong harbors rebels, turning into a hotbed of rebellion, not only defying the court's authority but also oppressing the royal family. You, Jun Yishi Zhizhong, loyal and devoted, who understands righteousness, I believe you will definitely rise up immediately, join the army, and eliminate Li Wunu together with a coordinated pincer attack from within and outside, make a name for yourself, and demonstrate your loyalty. Look at Shen Youzhi, who built up his strength over ten years, had tens of thousands of troops, but the city collapsed as soon as he marched out, and the army fell apart before the battle even started. The court spent little, and the people hardly suffered at all. Let alone someone like Li Wunu, a minor player, who is as easy to deal with as cutting bamboo; it won't take much time to eliminate them.
While my abilities may be limited, I carry the heavy burden of pacifying the borders and quelling the rebellion. The armory in this mansion is piled high, the battle flags are numerous, the soldiers are brave and battle-hardened, already poised to strike; there's no need to call up more troops to handle the rebellion! Just like pulling weeds without breaking a sweat, or swatting mosquitoes and flies without needing a lot of help. The Emperor is wise and martial, with blessings spread far and wide; this time, only the ringleaders will face punishment; others won’t be questioned. Details on rewards and punishments will be outlined separately.
Bao Bu set out from Weixing, leading his troops upstream along the Dian River, where they eventually met at Jinshou. In light of Wen Hong's rebellion, the court appointed Guang Xiang as the Commissioner and Governor of Western Qin. Guang Xiang's son, originally the General of the Northern Garrison, has now been promoted to General of Conquering Barbarians and Prefect of Wudu. At the same time, the court also appointed Yang Houqi, Wen Hong's cousin, as Commissioner, General of Ning Shuo, Supervisor of Pingqiang, Governor of North Qin, and King of Wudu, to guard Wuxing.
Three years later, Wen Hong surrendered, and the court appointed him General of the West and Inspector of Beiqinzhou. Before this, Guang Xiang had passed away, and half of his Di tribe followers went with Wen Hong, while the other half sought refuge with Cui Huijing, the Inspector of Liangzhou. Wen Hong dispatched his kinsman Yang Houqi to take control of Baishui. Baishui is located upstream of Jinshou, bordering Fuling to the west, near the road to Yizhou to the east, and adjacent to Yinpinqiaolu to the north, making it a key strategic location. Yang Gong, the Prefect of Jinshou, submitted a memorial to the court, proposing suitable military strategies. The court replied, "Wen Hong's crimes are unforgivable, but the current situation calls for appeasement, so consider offering him some leniency. If you manage to capture Baishui, we will reward you handsomely!"
After the Emperor Shizu ascended to the throne, he promoted Yang Houqi's official position to General Champion. In the first year of Yongming, he appointed General Yang Jiong as the Governor of Shazhou and the Prince of Yinping, with his military position unchanged. In the second year of Yongming, court officials praised Yang Houqi for his dedication and loyalty in managing border affairs. Therefore, the court once again promoted him to General of the Expeditionary Forces. In the fourth year of Yongming, Yang Houqi passed away, and the court issued a decree saying: "Yang Houqi suddenly passed away, and we are deeply saddened. The peace of the border requires careful arrangements, and a successor must be chosen with caution. Yang Jishi is calm, capable, and loyal, and will surely stabilize the border and educate the people. We hereby appoint him as General of the Expeditionary Forces, Governor of Northern Qinzhou, Commander of Pingqiang, and Prince of Wudu." Yang Houqi's brother, Yang Houming, was appointed as Dragon Cavalry General and Prefect of Baishui; Yang Jilang's brother, Yang Jilang, was appointed as General of Ning Shuo. In the fifth year of Yongming, someone reported that Yang Jishi governed the border with great skill and was loved by the people, so his mother should also be rewarded accordingly. Therefore, the court appointed Yang Jishi's mother, Lady Jiang, as Grand Matriarch and bestowed her with a silver seal. In the ninth year of Yongming, court officials again reported that Yang Jiong had been diligent and loyal in his duties on the western border, and his contributions should be acknowledged with a promotion. Therefore, the court promoted him to General of the Vanguard.
Ten years ago, Ji Shi led a motley crew of Di and Shu people to stir up trouble here in Hanchuan. Yin Zhibo, the Governor of Liangzhou, sent General Ning Shuo, along with Huan Lunu, Liang Jiqun, Song Wei, and Wang Shilong, leading over a thousand troops to resist, but they were defeated and forced to retreat to Baima City. The enemy, numbering over ten thousand, set fire to the city, but Lunu held the line and fought back. Yin Zhibo then sent Yin Zhongchang with several thousand cavalry and infantry to provide assistance. When they arrived at Qianxi Bridge, just a few miles east of Baima City, Ji Shi and his men launched a desperate assault, but the officials and soldiers mounted a united counterattack, resulting in the scattering of eighteen camps and the deaths, injuries, and captures of several thousand. Ji Shi fled into enemy territory.
In the first year of Longchang, the court appointed Yang Jiong as the Commissioner and Commander of Sha Prefecture, General of Pacification in the West, and Inspector of Sha Prefecture, giving him a significant official position. Ji Shi fled to Wuxing and surrendered the city to the enemy. This led to the Di people, under Fu Yousun's leadership, rising in rebellion and attacking Wuxing.
In the second year of Jianwu, the Di tribe launched an attack on Hanzhong again. The governor of Liangzhou, Xiao Yi, sent a disciple of the former Di tribe king Yang Houqi, named Yuan Xiu, to recruit volunteers. Many Di people responded to him and cut off the enemy's supply lines. The enemy also sent a pretender governor of Nanliangzhou, Chouchi Gong Yang Lingzhen, to resist on Nigong Mountain. Later, Yuan Xiu fell ill and died, and Fu Yousun took over his army. Emperor Gaozu issued a decree stating, "Chouchi Gong Yang Yuan Xiu, a descendant of the Di tribe king, was loyal and brave, maintaining a sincere heart in the face of fierce enemies, upholding the authority of the court, winning over defectors, and people within thousands of miles responded to him and submitted to the court. His contributions are remarkable and merit recognition. Unfortunately, he has passed away, and I am deeply saddened. The court should reward those who sacrifice for the country, as is the ancient tradition. He should be posthumously promoted to a higher honor to inspire generations to come. Posthumously confer Yang Yuan Xiu the title of Chouchi Gong and send the decree back to his hometown."
It is said that Yang Fuzhi led his brothers to camp at the Jushui Pass, north of Baima City, preparing to make a significant impact. At first, he sent his brother Yang Jilang to lead the troops to Huanggen to meet the army of the states, resulting in a crushing defeat. Yang Fuzhi himself fled to Xiabian, while Yang Fuzhi defended his position at Wuxing. The enemy forces later retreated. Yang Fuzhi left his brother Yang Changzhi to guard Wuxing, while he himself occupied Chouchi. The court issued a decree stating, "Di King Yang Fuzhi, loyal and righteous for generations, led his subordinates to achieve merit on the border, defeating treacherous foes. He not only abided by the laws of the court but also pacified the border wilderness; loyal and sincere, I highly commend him! He is specially appointed as the General of the North Qin and Yongzhou, the General Supporting the State, the Pacification General of the Qiang, the Governor of North Qinzhou, and conferred the title of Chouchi Gong!"
Yang Jiong, the governor of Shazhou, was appointed as General of Anxi. Three years later, Yang Jiong passed away, and his son Yang Chongzu succeeded him, being appointed as General with Special Authority, Supervisor of Shazhou Military Affairs, General Who Subdues the Enemy, Colonel for Qiang Pacification, Governor of Shazhou, and Prince of Yinping.
Four years later, Yang Lingzhen, who disguised himself as the governor of Nanliangzhou, surrendered to the court with his two brothers Poluo and Abuzhen, leading an army of over thirty thousand. They also sent their mother and sons Shuangjian and Api as hostages to Nanzheng. Governor of Liangzhou Yin Guangzong sent the Middle Army Colonel Wang Sikao to rescue them, but was captured, and Poluo and Abuzhen died in battle. Yang Lingzhen attacked Yang Jishi in Wuxing, killing Yang Jishi's two brothers Yang Jitong and Yang Jizhong. Left with no options, Yang Jishi surrendered. The court appointed Yang Lingzhen as Commissioner with Special Authority, Supervisor of Longyou Military Affairs, General Who Subdues the Enemy, Governor of North Liangzhou, Duke of Qiuchi, and King of Wudu. In the second year of Yongyuan, the court reappointed Yang Jishi as Commissioner, Supervisor of Qin and Yong Provinces Military Affairs, Supporter General, Colonel for Qiang Pacification, and Governor of North Qinzhou. Later, Yang Lingzhen was killed by enemy forces.
Since the enemy captured Qiuchi, the area has frequently changed hands between the court and enemy forces. Later, the Song Dynasty established Qiuchi as a county, using the title of the Di ethnic group to name it.
The people of Dangchang are all Qiang people. They each have their own leaders and communities, living between the Qianshui River and Longshan Mountains. After the fall of the Southern Song Dynasty, Dangchang King Liang Miji was appointed to various official roles, including Commissioner, Supervisor of Helian Provinces, General of the Western Pacification, Colonel for Qiang Pacification, Governor of Helian Provinces, and Duke of Longxi. In the first year of Jianyuan, Emperor Taizu promoted him to General of the Western Pacification. Another Qiang leader, General Who Subdues the Enemy and Governor of Xiliangzhou, Qiang King Xiang Shupeng, was also promoted to Commissioner and General of the Western Pacification. Later, these two revolted but eventually surrendered again.
In the first year of Yongming, the court reinstated Liang Miji and Xiang Shupeng to their former official positions and specifically commended them for their contributions to stabilizing the western border. The original decree reads: "Former envoys with full powers, commander of military affairs in the He and Liang provinces, General of the West, Eastern Qiang Colonel, Governor of the He and Liang provinces, Duke of Longxi, King of Dangchang, Liang Miji, former envoys with full powers, Pacifier of the North, Governor of the West Liang Province, Qiang King Xiang Shupeng, who diligently guarded the west and pacified the border, can restore their previous titles." At the same time, the court also promoted the Qiang King Liu Luoyang to the position of Assistant General of the State. Sadly, Liang Miji later passed away.
Three years later, the court issued another decree stating: "King Dangchang Liang Miji faithfully surrendered to the court, made contributions to stabilizing the western border, and should be promoted to a higher official title in recognition of his contributions as a protector of the frontier. Therefore, he is appointed as an envoy with full powers, commander of military affairs in the He and Liang provinces, General of the West, Eastern Qiang Colonel, Governor of the He and Liang provinces, Duke of Longxi, King of Dangchang." The original decree reads: "The conduct of King Dangchang Liang Miji, loyal and submissive, with outstanding merits in the west, should be given a title and command, to strengthen the frontier defense. Can be an envoy with full powers, commander of military affairs in the He and Liang provinces, General of the West, Eastern Qiang Colonel, Governor of the He and Liang provinces, Duke of Longxi, King of Dangchang." Unfortunately, Liang Miji passed away not long after.
Six years later, the court once again appointed Liang Micheng as the Commissioner of Military Affairs, Supervisor of Military Affairs of He and Liang Provinces, General of Anxi, Colonel of Dongqiang, Governor of He and Liang Provinces, and King of Dangchang. Liang Micheng later requested the court to provide him with some military texts and assorted literature. The court replied, "We know that you need nine kinds of military texts, but these are not our specialty. There are many kinds of military texts, and gathering them is quite challenging. The technical texts in the palace are not suitable for long-distance transport. The books in the secret pavilion are typically not available for lending. However, we are granting you a copy of the 'Collection of Commentaries on the Five Classics' and 'The Analects' as a special reward." The people of Dangchang place great importance on tiger skins, using them for burial, and tiger skins are also a commodity in the area. Historical records indicate that the Di and Hu tribes were quite powerful, seizing opportunities to rise continuously. The Qin and Zhao states were destroyed successively due to their mutual conflicts, and other minority ethnic groups were also restless, occupying the western border and extending all the way to the northern border. The Di people resided in remote, desolate areas like Youzhou, separated from the Central Plains by countless mountains and rivers. The Di people and the Yang tribe were close to the Central Plains and minority ethnic areas, with their populations living in close proximity. They frequently encroached upon the Hanshui and Yangtze River basins, gradually approaching the Langshan and Hushan mountains. They have consistently kept a close watch on the border, probing the majesty and strength of the court. The Liangzhou region often experiences unrest, which has become a significant concern for the court.
Later, some remaining descendants of the Qiang ethnic group seized the opportunity presented by the country's prosperity, occupied the area west of Longshan and east of the Yellow River, built a road to the south, established their own country, calling themselves a tributary state, and accepted the court's appointment. When the Jin Dynasty declined and the court fell, they wanted to eliminate the remaining minority ethnic groups to take revenge for past conflicts. The court supplied them with weapons and enlisted them in the army. Later dynasties followed this practice, seeking to expand their reputation and consolidate their influence, pacify the border areas, and appease distant regions. They first established their reputation and then sought practical benefits. This fostered trade and established a tradition of convenient border commerce. Goods such as feathers and leather did not pose a threat to our country. As for the nine tribes, this is likely the case.
Praise: Rui Rui and the minority ethnic groups of Henan are all descendants of the Hu people. They declared themselves kings and emperors, seized power and ruled autonomously. The remnants of the Di and Qiang ethnic groups are scattered in the Hetao and Longshan areas. They alternately submitted to the court and rebelled, displaying fickleness, ultimately being integrated into the court.
Speaking of ancient barbarian tribes, there were many different kinds, each with their own languages. They all lived in valleys, primarily found at the borders of five provinces: Jingzhou, Xiangzhou, Yongzhou, Yingzhou, and Sizhou. During the Song Dynasty, Mei Chongsheng of the Xiyang barbarians was granted the title of Gaoshan Marquis, Tian Zhisheng as Weishan Marquis, and Mei Jiayang as Hanshan Marquis.
After Emperor Taizu ascended the throne, officials reported that the titles of these tribes should be dealt with according to the previous rules. After discussion, the ministers believed: "The titles of the minority ethnic groups on the border have always had rules to follow; the hereditary succession of chiefs is recorded in historical books. Now that the emperor has changed, the previous enfeoffment records are automatically void, but Mei Chongsheng and the other tribal leaders remained loyal to the court and must be rewarded; their status must be elevated, contrary to the usual practices. Therefore, their titles should be retained to civilize these barbarian tribes." So the emperor issued an edict declaring, "We shall retain their titles!" As a result, Tian Zhisheng was appointed Fuguo General and Huben General, while retaining the titles of both general and marquis.
In the second year of the Jianyuan era, enemies from the north invaded Yuzhou and Sizhou. The news spread to the barbarian areas, saying that the enemies were coming soon. It was also heard that the government had conscripted all the common folk to fight. Qin Yuan, a tribal leader from Nanyang, saw that the local counties were caught off guard, so he took the opportunity to attack Tongyang. County magistrate Jiao Wendu was killed in action. The tribes from Sizhou allied with the invaders to attack Pingchang Garrison, but Garrison Commander Gou Yuanbin managed to repel them. Qin Yuan also overran the Baifang Stockade in Linju, killing over a hundred people. The northern barbarian Wen Miande attacked Wenyang, and the Prefect of Wenyang, Dai Yuansun, realizing he was outmatched, abandoned Wenyang and retreated to Jiangling. The Jingzhou Inspector, Prince Yuzhang, sent Middle Army Advisor Liu Pinxu with a thousand troops to deal with Wen Miande. Upon arriving in Dangyang, Wen Miande surrendered. Liu Pinxu took command of his tribe and stationed him in Wenyang City, tasked with ensuring the safety of merchant routes and maintaining clear roads. Realizing the tide had turned against him, Qin Yuan fled.
Wenyang lies to the west of Linju, spanning about two hundred li. The waterways are narrow, permitting only single-file passage, with several spots that are impassable even on horseback. Nonetheless, the paddy fields there are incredibly fertile. During Huan Wen's reign, Wenyang was carved out and established as a commandery. Wenyang borders Xincheng in Liangzhou to the northwest, to Nanxiangcheng to the northeast, and shares borders with Bajun and Wujun to the south. The mountain tribes in these regions are quite fierce, often taking over strategic spots as bandits.
Since the Tai Shi period of the Song Dynasty, the tribal leaders of the barbarians in Bajun and Jianping repeatedly rebelled against the Zongtou. At that time, the governor Shen Youzhi cut off their supply of salt and rice and launched multiple campaigns, but he was never successful. In the third year of Taixing in the Jin Dynasty, Xiang Hong, Xiang Ruo, and other leaders from the Jianping Yi tribe went to the court to request official positions. The official Zhang Liang believed that "barbarians should not be given military positions," so Emperor Yuan of Jin specially appointed Xiang Hong as the General of Zhechong and the Marquis of Dangpingxiang, and allowed him to come to the court and gave him court attire. This Zongtou emerged later. Later, the Taizu established Bazhou to deter those barbarian tribes.
The barbarian Tian Sipiao from Yuxi in Wuling also emerged to wreak havoc and plunder the populace. The Neishi Wang Wenhe led troops to suppress, deep into the heart of barbarian territory, but the barbarians cut off his food and supply lines from behind. Prince Yuzhang sent the Zhongbing Canjun Zhuang Ming to lead five hundred men, together with one thousand troops stationed in Xiangzhou, to rescue Wang Wenhe. Tian Sipiao fought with Wang Wenhe and was shot to death by crossbow arrows, and the barbarians surrendered.
In the first year of Yongming, Zongtou allied with the Qianyang barbarian Tian Douqu and others; over five thousand people rebelled together. The Governor of Badong, Wang Tunan, sent the Prefect Sima Liu Shengshou and others to clear paths in the mountains and assault their strongholds. Zongtou set the fort ablaze at night and escaped.
In the third year of Yongming, the barbarians Chen Shuang and Li Da from Xiangchuan emerged to raid the counties. Governor Lu Anguo attempted to suppress them, but was unsuccessful. In the fourth year of Yongming, Governor Liu Shilong led a large force to quell the rebellion.
In the fifth year of Yongming, the barbarians from Yongzhou and Sizhou colluded with northern enemies to assist the savage Huan Tiansheng in his rebellion.
In the sixth year of Yongming, the court appointed Tian Sili, the Protector of Beisuian Zuo County, as the acting Prefect, and the former Ning Shuo General Tian Luowang as the acting Prefect of Xinping Zuo County, both of whom were barbarians from Yingzhou.
In the ninth year of Yongming, Wang Sengxu, the Interior Minister of Anlong, mobilized the populace and dispatched Wan Minhe, the commander of the Kuancheng garrison, to lead eight hundred villagers from one barbarian tribe to attack another tribe of twelve hundred villagers. They were defeated, Wan Minhe was injured, and they lost their horses and weapons. The relevant authorities requested his dismissal.
In Xiyang, Mantian Yizong, originally a meritorious subordinate of Shen You, later became the commander of the garrison forces under the King of Linchuan. He subsequently defected to Northern Wei and was appointed as the governor of Dongyu Province. In the third year of Jianwu, Northern Wei sent Yizong to attack the defending army of Longcheng in Sizhou, but was defeated by the chief commander, Zhu Sengqi.
The customs of the barbarians include wearing cloth garments and going barefoot, some with topknots, and some with short hair. Their weapons are decorated with gold and silver, shields made of tiger skin, skilled with crossbows, fierce, and prone to looting.
Goryeo, a country of the Eastern Yi tribes, borders Northern Wei to the west. In the late Song Dynasty, Goryeo King Le Lang Gong Gao Lian was appointed as the Commissioner, Cavalry Attendant, Commander of the troops in Yingping and Erzhou, Grand General of Chariots and Cavalry, and Supervisor of the Imperial Guard. In the first year of Jianyuan, he was promoted to Grand General of Cavalry. In the third year of Jianyuan, Goryeo paid tribute to Northern Wei, sending envoys by sea, with ongoing diplomatic exchanges and tribute sent to Northern Wei. However, Goryeo was powerful and maintained its independence from Northern Wei.
The Northern Wei court established embassies of various countries, with the Qi embassy taking the top spot and the Goguryeo embassy coming in second. In the seventh year of Yongming, the Southern Ping military officer Yan Youming and the auxiliary official Liu Sixiao were sent to the Northern Wei. A grand banquet was held by the Northern Wei, attended by envoys from Qi and Goguryeo. Yan Youming said to the Northern Wei's official Pei Shuling, "We are here to visit your country on behalf of the Emperor of Qi. We are in opposition to the Northern Wei, and smaller barbarian states are not qualified to be compared with us, let alone Goguryeo, which is a small country submissive to our dynasty, having the audacity to sit on equal footing with us today." Liu Sixiao said to the Southern Secretary Li Sichong of the Northern Wei, "When we receive envoys from the Northern Wei, we never treat them like we would treat smaller states, and you should know that." Li Sichong replied, "Indeed, it is so; only the chief and deputy envoys cannot enter the hall. The seating arrangement is quite elaborate, clearly reflecting the hierarchy." Liu Sixiao added, "When Li Daogu visited the Northern Wei, he was treated differently due to his attire. The Northern Wei envoys must be dressed in ceremonial attire; how can they allow themselves to be disrespected?" Yan Youming then said to the Northern Wei Emperor, "Only Qi and Northern Wei can be on par; how can the small barbarians on the border dare to be compared with us?"
Goguryeo people wear loose pants and a hat made of bamboo strips called a "je." They understand the Five Classics. Once, a Goguryeo envoy in the capital was jokingly asked by the Ministry of Personnel Wang Rong, "Your clothing isn't very stylish and isn't good for your health. What are you wearing on your head?" The Goguryeo envoy replied, "This is a remnant of an ancient hat."
Gao Li lived for over a hundred years and passed away quietly.
In the first year of Longchang, Goguryeo King Gao Yun was appointed as the commissioner, cavalier attendant, commander of military affairs in Yingping and Pingzhou, Grand General of the East, King of Goguryeo, and Duke of Lelang, holding a prestigious position!
In the third year of Jianwu... (329 characters missing, specific content unknown)... In any case, they've accomplished significant military feats that will be remembered in history.
Sister Jin and her three companions truly risked their lives to eliminate a major threat to the nation, brave and decisive, standing shoulder to shoulder with renowned generals; they are truly the guardians of our nation! Their contributions to the country should be recognized and rewarded. Therefore, in line with tradition, we recommend their promotion. We hope the emperor will approve and agree to our promotion proposal.
General Ning Shuo and Princess Jin have loyally served the country, with outstanding military accomplishments. We now propose promoting her to Champion General, Grand General, and King of the Capital Han.
General Jianwei, Marquis Yugu, has loyally served the emperor from a young age, demonstrating unwavering loyalty and notable accomplishments. We now propose promoting him to General Ning Shuo and King A Cuo.
General Jianwei Yu Li has consistently proven to be loyal and dependable, talented in both civil and military affairs. We now recommend promoting him to Dragon Soaring General and King Mile.
General Guangwu Yu Gu has always been dedicated to serving the nation and has made substantial contributions to the enforcement of national policies. We now propose promoting him to General Jianwei and Marquis of Fusi.
Minister Mou Da presented: "The generals I dispatched: General Jianwei, Prefect of Guangyang and Chief Clerk Gao Da, General Jianwei, Prefect of Korea and Chief of Staff Yang Mao, and General Xuanwei and Staff Officer Hui Mai, these three individuals possess noble character, unwavering loyalty, and a strong reputation. They were previously dispatched to the Song Dynasty during the Taishi period, and this time they were sent on my mission, braving storms and obstacles to achieve the best outcomes; they deserve to be promoted and honored. According to the previous practice, I request that they be temporarily appointed to higher positions. Furthermore, the blessings from above are abundant, and the people are eagerly anticipating this, especially since they have personally come to the court yet have not received any favor. I hope Your Majesty will extend special grace and absolve them of any wrongdoing."
Gao Da has been serving on the frontier for many years, working diligently and conscientiously. He is now temporarily appointed as General Long Xiang and Prefect of Daifang Commandery. Yang Maoping has a clean and upright character, never neglecting his official duties. He is now temporarily appointed as General Jianwei and Prefect of Guangling. Hui Mai is meticulous and thorough in his duties, having made significant contributions multiple times. He is now temporarily appointed as General Guangwu and Prefect of Qinghe. The Emperor approved their appointments and granted them military titles, appointing them as Prefects.
Next, Mou Da was appointed as Imperial Commissioner, Commander-in-Chief of the Baekje troops, and Grand General of the Eastern Garrison. The Assistant Imperial Secretary Sun read out the imperial edict, officially conferring the title of King of Baekje upon Mou Da's grandfather, Mou Du. The edict stated, "Your family has been loyal and hardworking for generations, with accomplishments widely recognized. The borders are secure, and tribute has never ceased. In accordance with ancestral customs, we officially confer upon you the title of king. Remember, treasure this honor and exercise great caution!" After the edict was issued, Mou Da formally ascended to the throne as King of Baekje in the name of his grandfather Mou Du, and received the royal seals, insignia, bronze tiger tally, and bamboo tally of his coronation. "Accepting the coronation is truly wonderful!"
That year, the Wei Kingdom sent hundreds of thousands of cavalry to invade deep into its territory. Mou Da immediately dispatched several generals including Sha Faming, Zan Shouliu, Xie Likun, and Mu Ganna to lead the army, delivering a crushing defeat to the Wei army and quelling their arrogance.
In the second year of Jianwu, Mou Da submitted a memorial to the court, saying, "Since I was granted my title, my family has enjoyed the emperor's favor for generations, and I have been honored to hold important positions, working hard to defend the borders and fend off foreign invasions. Previously, my brothers and sisters were also recognized and promoted by the court, and the people lived in peace and prosperity. In the year of Gengwu, the northern tribes refused to back down, mustered their forces, and invaded, approaching the border. I dispatched Sha Faming and his troops to fight, launching a night attack on the enemy, sending them fleeing in chaos. We pursued and killed them, leaving a trail of enemy corpses. This battle completely shattered their pride. Now, the border is peaceful and stable, all thanks to their efforts! To recognize their achievements, I propose promoting them. I request to appoint Sha Faming as the General of Conquering Barbarians and give him the title of King Mile; appoint Zanshouliu as the General of Peaceful Country and give him the title of King Bizhong; appoint Jielikun as the General of Martial Might and give him the title of Marquis Fuzhong; Muganna has also made military contributions before and captured Taifang, I request to appoint him as the General of Broad Might and give him the title of Marquis Mianzhong."
He continued in his memorial, "The generals I dispatched, Longxiang, and the Prefect and Chief of Staff of Yelang, Mu Yi, Jianwu General, Prefect of Chengyang and Sima Wang Mao, as well as the Staff Officer, Zhenwu General, Prefect of Korea Zhang Sai, and the Yangwu General Chen Ming, have all worked diligently and loyally in their roles, facing danger fearlessly and putting themselves at risk. This time they were sent out, facing the storms and challenges, doing their jobs well and performing exceptionally; they should also be promoted. I ask the court to promote them and grant them new titles." The emperor approved his request and awarded them their new military titles.
The Kingdom of Kala is a descendant of the Three Han. In the first year of the Jianyuan era, the king of Kala, Hezhi, sent envoys to pay tribute. The emperor issued a decree: "I have just ascended the throne not long ago, and the remote regions have come to pay tribute, showing good customs. King Hezhi of Kala has traveled a long way, demonstrating his loyalty. He is appointed as the Vice-General of the Kingdom and remains the king of his own country."
The Wa Kingdom is located on an island in the southeast direction of Daifang. Since the end of the Han Dynasty, it has been ruled by a queen. Their customs are recorded in historical books. In the first year of the Jianyuan era, the court appointed an imperial envoy, and the military commander of the six kingdoms of Wa, Silla, Na, Kala, Qin, and Han, as the Grand General of the East, and granted the title of Wushou, the King of Wa, as the Grand General of the East.
The Kingdom of Linyi is located south of Jiaozhou, and it is over three thousand li by boat along the sea route. It shares a border with Jiude County to the north and was known as Linyi County during the Qin Dynasty. Linyi established itself as a kingdom during the late Han Dynasty. It was not until the fifth year of the Taikang period of the Jin Dynasty that it began to pay tribute to the court.
In the first year of the Yongchu era of the Song Dynasty, King Fanyang of Linyi was born. His mother dreamed that someone was placing a golden mat underneath him, glistening beautifully. In Chinese, we refer to this as purple gold, but in Linyi, it is called "Yang Mai," so he was given this name. After Yang Mai died, his son succeeded him and missed his father dearly, so he also changed his name to Yang Mai.
In Lin Yi, there is a mountain of gold, where gold flows down like water from the mountain into the bay. They practice the Nigan faith and cast a massive Buddha statue made of gold and silver with a diameter of ten zhang. In the 22nd year of Yuanjia, Tan Hezhi, the governor of Jiaozhou, led an army to attack Lin Yi. Yang Mai sought to exchange ten thousand catties of gold, one hundred thousand catties of silver, and three hundred thousand catties of bronze to reclaim Rinan County. The minister, Doseng Da, advised against this, but Yang Mai did not listen. Tan Hezhi defeated the Qiong Rong region in northern Lin Yi, seized countless treasures of gold and silver, destroyed the large gold statue, acquired tens of thousands of catties of gold, with other spoils piled high like mountains. Tan Hezhi later fell ill and died, reportedly due to offending the Hushen.
In the second year of Xiaojian, the court appointed Fan Longba, the chief historian of Lin Yi, as General of Yangwu.
Yang Mai's descendants have always ascended to the throne, but they previously held no formal titles. Later, a Lin Yi native named Fan Dangenchun led a rebellion and took the throne. In the ninth year of Yongming, Fan Dangenchun sent people to offer tribute including gold mats. The emperor issued an edict stating, "Although Lin Yi is located in a remote area, it has always been submissive to the court. Dangenchun sincerely presented tribute this time and brought his officials to come together, demonstrating commendable conduct, deserving of praise. He should be granted a title to reflect the court's favor. He is hereby appointed as General-in-Chief, Commander of the Coastal Forces, General of Annan, and King of Lin Yi." Later, Fan Zhunong, a descendant of Fan Yangmai, rallied the people to revolt, defeated Fan Dangenchun, and recovered Lin Yi. In the tenth year of Yongming, the court appointed Fan Zhunong as General-in-Chief, Commander of the Coastal Forces, General of Annan, and King of Lin Yi. In the second year of Jianwu, he was promoted to General of Zhen Nan. In the first year of Yongtai, Fan Zhunong went to the court, but drowned in a storm at sea. The court then allowed his son, Fan Wenkuan, to succeed him, appointing him as Acting General, Commander of the Coastal Forces, General of Annan, and King of Lin Yi.
During the Jianxing period of the Jin Dynasty, a Yi tribe leader named Fan Zhinu from Rinan often interacted with merchants and learned about the advanced systems of the Central Plains region. He encouraged the king of Linyi, Fan Yi, to construct cities and palaces. This king of Linyi wore a hat resembling a Buddhist crown and dressed himself in fragrant jewelry. The people of Linyi were known for their fierce character, accustomed to mountain living, skilled fighters, and used conch shells as battle horns. Most of them went naked, since the climate was warm year-round, and they had never experienced frost or snow. Women held a high status, while men had a lower status, and their leaders were called Brahmins. They practiced cousin marriages, with women sending go-betweens to propose marriage. When a woman got married, she wore a long, wide dress made from blue fabric, stitched together like a well railing, with flowers and jewels adorning her head. The Brahmin would hold the hands of the bride and groom, have them shake hands and recite spells to wish them a happy marriage. When someone died, they would cut their hair as a sign of mourning, then cremate the body and bury the ashes in the wilderness. Legend has it that a bird called Lingjiu, found in distant lands, would fly to the home of the deceased, consume all the flesh, and then depart. The deceased's bones would be cremated into ashes and scattered into the sea for burial. They considered dark skin to be beautiful, a common belief in many southern countries. In Quliceng, they set up an eight-foot pole to measure the sun's shadow at noon, discovering that it was eight inches southward.
Traveling southwest from Linyi for over three thousand li, you will arrive at Funan. Funan is located south of Rinan, in the bay of the Western Barbarians, covering an area of over three thousand li. There is a great river flowing into the sea from the west. Legend has it that in the earliest days of Funan, a woman named Liuye served as queen. Later, a man from Jiguo named Huntian dreamed that a god gave him a bow and instructed him to sail out to sea. The next morning, Huntian discovered the bow beneath a tree in the temple and sailed to Funan. When Liuye saw the approaching ship, she led her soldiers to intercept it. Huntian raised the bow and shot an arrow from a distance, piercing the ship and striking a person on board. Terrified, Liuye surrendered. Huntian married Liuye but found her nudity unappealing, so he draped her in cloth to cover her. Huntian then ruled the kingdom, and his descendants carried on his legacy. Later, after King Pankuang's death, the ministers crowned his great general Fanshiman as king. When Fanshiman fell ill, his nephew Zhan seized the throne and murdered Fanshiman's son Jinsheng. More than a decade later, Fanshiman's other son, Chang, killed Zhan. He cut open Zhan's belly with a knife, declaring, "You killed my brother; today, I will avenge my father and brother!" Consequently, Zhan's general Fanxun killed Chang. The ministers crowned Fanxun as king during the era of the Wu Kingdom and the Jin Dynasty. Funan continued to pay tribute to the imperial court during the Jin and Song dynasties. As the Song Dynasty neared its collapse, a Funan king named Qiaochen Rushayebamo sent envoys to Guangzhou for trade. An Indian monk named Nagasena boarded the Funan king's ship to return to his homeland but encountered a storm that blew him to Linyi, where he was robbed of everything. After learning he could reach Funan, Nagasena spoke in detail about the wise emperor of China.
In the second year of Yongming, the monk Nāgārjuna wrote a letter to the Chinese emperor, saying, "May the heavens bless us with favorable weather and peace in the land. Wishing Your Majesty good health, safety for the Crown Prince, and well-being for the concubines in the palace. May civil and military officials live in harmony, may the people live and work in peace, may there be abundant harvests, no disasters, and peace for the nation. Our country also enjoys favorable weather and the people are happy, all because of Your Majesty's grace."
He also said, "I previously sent people to Guangzhou for business, and the monk Nāgārjuna boarded our ship to return to Funan, but we encountered a storm at sea and ended up in Linyi. The king of Linyi seized our goods and Nāgārjuna's personal belongings. Nāgārjuna came from China and saw the prosperity of China, the flourishing of Buddhism, the abundance of monks, and the thriving of Buddhist practices, the king's majesty and the nation's well-ordered affairs, Your Majesty's compassion for the people, which has won their hearts. If Your Majesty could wield such influence as he described, it would be tremendous! Hearing this made me very happy, and I hope to have the opportunity to meet Your Majesty, receive Your Majesty's grace, and bless our country. So I sent Nāgārjuna to meet Your Majesty, offer some small gifts, express our loyalty, and explain the situation. The gifts are humble; I hope Your Majesty will forgive us."
He also said, "I have a slave named Jiuchouluo. He escaped, ran to another place, conspired with rebels, attacked Lin Yi, and proclaimed himself king; he is disloyal and unjust, having committed a grave crime. Lin Yi was defeated by Tan and Guo before and then surrendered to China, but now this rebellious slave Jiuchouluo is very arrogant. Lin Yi and Funan are neighboring countries. Being far from the court, he is completely disobedient. Lin Yi is your vassal state, so I am reporting this specifically. I heard that Lin Yi has not paid tribute for several years and wants to cut off relations with the court. Can a lion tolerate a mouse being so arrogant in its presence? I hope the emperor will dispatch troops to deal with this traitor, and I will do my best to assist, ensuring the submission of all neighboring states. If the emperor wants to appoint another person as the king of Lin Yi, please issue a decree. If you don't want to send troops, I hope the emperor will send a small number of troops to assist me, pursue, and eliminate the traitor. After pacification, I will offer five patalas of gold as tribute. Now I am sending envoys to show my loyalty; the writing is not complete, and I ask for Your Majesty's understanding. Nagasena and his companions also submitted a petition, begging for the emperor's mercy." Finally, he presented a gold-carved statue of a dragon king, a sandalwood statue, two ivory pagodas, two pairs of ancient shells, two pieces of glassware from Su Shuo, and a piece of betel nut carved from agate.
Once upon a time, an immortal from the Naga country came to the capital city, claiming that their country worships the deity Moheshvara, who frequently descends upon Mount Modan. The place is warm all year round, and the trees remain evergreen. The immortal submitted a memorial, which read: "May auspicious blessings protect the world and deliver all beings. This is because the heavens acknowledge good deeds. The holy mountain is called Modan, where auspicious trees flourish abundantly. Moheshvara descends as a divine being. The land is graced with blessings, and the people live in peace and prosperity. It is because of these blessings that I have come to pay my respects. The Bodhisattva embodies compassion, starting practice from the mortal world. With a Bodhi mind, transcending the two vehicles, accumulating merits over lifetimes, cultivating the six paramitas. Diligently striving to transcend the cycle of rebirth, offering wealth and life selflessly. Without fear of life and death, liberating all beings across the six realms. Mastering the ten stages of spiritual practice, ultimately guiding humans and gods. Perfecting merits, attaining enlightenment. Complete with all kinds of wisdom, blessings shining on the world. Beings are met with karmic conditions, receiving teachings and remedies accordingly. The Buddha's teachings spread throughout the ten directions, saving all without exception. Your Majesty, spreading the great way with wisdom, flourishing the Three Jewels. Your boundless compassion extends to all, your influence resonates throughout the realm. The cities and towns of your realm are virtuous and just. Like the King of the Heavens, the most respected among the heavens. Your Majesty leads all the people, and the hearts of the world turn towards you. Your wise and boundless love extends even to my small country."
After reading the memorial, the emperor ordered a reply, saying, "The divine blessings have descended upon the Kingdom of Nagara. Although our customs and traditions differ, I am deeply gratified. I am aware that Jiuchouluo has betrayed the Kingdom of Nagara, occupied Linyi, and gathered forces to pillage, and indeed they should be punished. Although they are in a remote location and have previously paid tribute, since the end of the Song Dynasty, there have been frequent wars, interruptions in maritime traffic, and the imperial court's influence has not penetrated deeply. I intend to use civil governance to win over the distant people and do not wish to resort to military action at this time. Since the king of Nagara sincerely came to court and requested our troops to march, I have ordered the Ministry of War to extend a proper welcome. Punishing rebels and pacifying the loyal is the law of the land, and I hope you will accomplish great deeds and live up to my expectations. The Nagara Immortal has frequently traveled between our two nations and is more familiar with our situation; therefore, let him provide a detailed report to me." The emperor also bestowed upon the Nagara Immortal five pieces each of crimson, yellow, and green silk brocade.
The Funanese people are quite clever and cunning. They use tactics to capture neighboring residents who do not submit to their rule and then exchange them for gold and silver silk. Wealthy men wear satin garments, while women wear headscarves. Poor people wear simple cloth garments, adorn themselves with gold and silver jewelry, and use gold and silver utensils. They cut down trees to build houses, with the king residing in a tall pavilion surrounded by a wooden fence. Along the coast, there are large bamboo leaves, eight or nine feet long, which they use to build houses. Commoners also reside in similar pavilions. Their boats measure eight or nine zhang in length and five to seven feet in width, with bows and sterns resembling fish. The king travels on elephants, and women can also ride them. Cockfighting and hunting are their pastimes. They have no prisons, so if someone is sued, they throw a gold ring or an egg-sized gold ring into boiling water and have the parties fish it out. Another method involves having the accused walk seven steps while holding a hot iron chain - the guilty will suffer burns, while the innocent remain unharmed. They are required to swim - the righteous will float, while the unrighteous will sink. They produce sugarcane, pomegranates, oranges, and betel nuts, with various birds and animals resembling those in China. The Funanese are kind-hearted yet not skilled in warfare, often oppressed by the Kingdom of Lin Yi and unable to maintain relations with Jiaozhou, resulting in them rarely sending envoys.
Jiaozhou is situated at a strategic maritime crossroads, controlling many foreign countries. Therefore, they often do not obey the jurisdiction of the court. During the Taishi period of the Song Dynasty, after the death of Jiaozhou Governor Zhang Mu, the Jiaozhi people killed Zhang Mu's troops and rebelled against Jiaozhou. Several years later, Li Changren died of illness. His brother Li Shuxian inherited his position, but before he could issue orders, he asked the court to appoint a governor. The Song Dynasty appointed Shen Huan, the governor of Nanhai, as the governor of Jiaozhou, and appointed Li Shuxian as the Sima of Huanningyuan and the governors of Wuping and Xinchang. Once Li Shuxian received his appointment from the court, the people complied with him, so he led the army to defend the strategic location and did not allow Shen Huan to enter. Shen Huan lingered in Yulin until he eventually succumbed to illness. In the first year of the Jianyuan reign of the Song Dynasty, the court appointed Li Shuxian as the governor of Jiaozhou and pacified him. Li Shuxian accepted the appointment, but later cut off contact with foreign countries, and the tribute he sent began to dwindle. Emperor Song wanted to attack him. In the third year of Yongming, the court appointed Liu Kai, the Minister of Agriculture, as the governor of Jiaozhou, and mobilized the armies of Nankang, Luling, and Shixing counties to attack Jiaozhou. When Li Shuxian heard about this, he asked the court for a few more years and offered twelve sets of pure silver helmets and peacock feather ornaments, but Emperor Song refused his request. Fearing defeat by Liu Kai, Li Shuxian secretly returned to the court from Xiangchuan.
Six years later, Fang Fachen took over from Kai as the Prefect of Shixing. After taking office, Fachen fell ill and neglected his duties entirely, choosing instead to read books. The Chief Clerk, Fu Dengzhi, took advantage of this opportunity to consolidate his power, making unauthorized changes to military commanders and officials without Fachen's knowledge. The Military Records Officer, Fang Jiwen, informed Fachen of this, which angered him and led to Dengzhi being imprisoned. After being detained for more than ten days, Dengzhi bribed Cui Jingshu, Fachen's brother-in-law, to win his release. Subsequently, Dengzhi and his men attacked the Prefectural Government, captured Fachen, and falsely claimed, "You are unwell and should not be burdened with work," and then locked Fachen away in a secluded room.
Once Fachen recovered, he asked Dengzhi for books, but Dengzhi refused, arguing that reading could worsen his condition. Dengzhi then claimed that Fachen had a heart ailment and poor health, rendering him unfit for administrative duties. Despite this, the court appointed Dengzhi as the Jiaozhou Inspector. Upon returning to Lingnan, Fachen passed away. Fachen, a native of Qinghe, served as the Cavalry Commander-in-Chief under the Taizu Emperor during the Shengming era, eventually rising to the position of General of the Left Central Guard. Known for his integrity and simplicity, Fachen stood at an impressive height of eight feet three inches, always maintaining a humble and modest demeanor. The Inspector of Qingzhou, Ming Qingfu, was similarly outstanding, making them the only two men of their caliber in the court.
Historical records mention the incursions of barbarian tribes into the Central Plains as a general summary. However, regarding the diverse and exotic tribes in the south, each establishing their own nations on islands and possessing a wealth of rare treasures, there is no place quite like it. The mountains and seas are filled with an abundance of treasures, with merchant ships arriving from distant lands to trade goods in the southern provinces. As a result, Jiaozhou and Guangzhou have become incredibly prosperous, with the imperial treasuries overflowing with wealth. While some matters may not have been handled well, the court's teachings still managed to reach this region. Should we really rely on moral virtue to sway the distant barbarian tribes?
It is said: The boundary between Sizhou and Yongzhou extends to Hengyang in Jingzhou. The administrative divisions are intricate, with various tribes scattered throughout. The Yi tribes in the east are located overseas, near Jieshi Mountain and in the land of Fusang. The southern frontier stretches far into the vast ocean. They either actively pay tribute or come to submit and become vassals.
Let’s talk about the Wei Kingdom, which was actually a branch of the Xiongnu, whose surname was Tuoba. In the sixth year of the Yongjia period of the Jin Dynasty, the Governor of Bingzhou, Liu Kun, suffered a crushing defeat at the hands of the Xiongnu leader Liu Cong. At that time, Suo Tou Yilu sent his son Lisun to lead a force to Taiyuan to rescue Liu Kun. Yilu himself settled in Daijun and was referred to as a Xianbei. They had unkempt hair, with their clothing fastened on the left, so they were called "Suo Tou." Yilu's grandson Shi Leqian, styled Yulvzhan, later returned to the Yin Mountains, where he became the Chanyu, leading various Xiongnu tribes.
In the first year of Taiyuan, Fu Jian sent the impostor pretending to be the Inspector of Bingzhou, Fu Luo, to attack Shi Leqian, captured his Longting stronghold, seized Shi Leqian, brought him back to Chang'an, built a house for him and taught him to read and write. Fu Jian divided Shi Leqian's subordinates among four counties, including Yunzhong, where they resided, and the leaders of each tribe were required to pay tribute to Shi Leqian at the end of each year. Shi Leqian also sustained himself through taxes collected from various tribes. After Fu Jian's defeat, Shi Leqian's son Tuoba Gui, styled Shegui, followed his father-in-law, Murong Chui, to take control of Zhongshan, and then regained control of his tribe, gradually increasing his power.
In the first year of Long'an, Tuoba Gui defeated Murong Bao in Zhongshan, occupied Bingzhou, declared himself King of Wei, and took the reign title Tianci. Later, Shi Leqian was posthumously titled Emperor Wenping, and after Tuoba Gui's death, he was posthumously titled Emperor Daowu. His son Tuoba Si succeeded to the throne, took the reign title Taichang, and was posthumously titled Emperor Mingyuan. Tuoba Si's son Tuoba Tao, styled Foli, succeeded him and took the reign title Taiping Zhenjun.
During the Yuanjia era of the Song Dynasty, the Crown Prince Tuoba Huang of the Wei Kingdom had a strained relationship with the ministers Cui and Kou. The Cui and Kou families badmouthed Tuoba Huang to Tuoba Tao. There was a sage named Xuangao who was skilled in magic. Tuoba Huang asked him to perform a blessing ritual that lasted for seven days and nights. Consequently, Tuoba Tao had a dream in which his grandfather was very angry and pointed at Tuoba Huang, saying, "Why do you believe slander and want to harm the Crown Prince!" Tuoba Tao woke up in a panic and immediately issued an order, saying, "The king's great cause is of utmost importance, and inheriting the throne is the established rule of past emperors. From now on, everything, no matter how big or small, must be approved by the Crown Prince first, and then reported to me." Later, Tuoba Huang conspired to assassinate Tuoba Tao, but was ultimately killed instead. Following Tuoba Tao's death, he was posthumously honored as Emperor Taiwu. His grandson, Tuoba Jun, whose courtesy name was Wuleizhiqin, succeeded to the throne during the era known as Ping'an. Tuoba Huang was honored posthumously as Emperor Jingmu, and after Tuoba Jun's death, he was posthumously honored as Emperor Wencheng. His son, Tuoba Hong, whose courtesy name was Wanmin, succeeded to the throne during the era known as Tian'an. In the ninth year of the Jinghe reign, the Crown Prince Tuoba Hong was born, and he later changed the era name to Huangxing.
When Shiyu Gui first built the capital in Pingcheng, he lived a nomadic lifestyle, moving with the water and grass, without city walls and moats. People built simple mud houses near the treetops. Later, Helian Bobo broke through Liangzhou and Huanglong, relocating the local people to Pingcheng, where they started constructing the city. He allocated land on the western side of Pingcheng for the construction of the palace city, with tall towers at each corner and parapets along the walls. The city gates were roofless, and there were no moats surrounding the city walls. Outside the south gate of the palace city were two earthen walls leading to temples. The palace city had four gates, each painted a different color to signify its direction. Five temples were built, one constructed by each successive emperor, all with tiled roofs. To the west of the palace city, a grand sacrificial altar was built. Helian Bobo's three palaces were constructed using materials such as mica and covered with heavy roofs. The palace kitchen was referred to as "A Zhen Chu" and was located on the west side of the palace city, where Empress Ke Sunheng would go to beg for food.
At the beginning, Yao Xing appointed Helian Bobo from beyond the frontier as the General of the North, allowing him to command five Hu tribes and station them in the capital city. After Yao Hong was defeated, Helian Bobo entered Chang'an. Later, Helian Bobo captured the city of Chang, Bobo's son, and also married Bobo's daughter, making her the empress. During the Yi Xi era, Duke of Qiu Chi, Yang Sheng, submitted a memorial saying, "The Suolu Bobo is the legitimate descendant of the Xiongnu," but the Sun clan was originally a concubine of Bobo. There were over forty armories on the west side of the palace, and over ten earthen houses for storing silk and fabric on the north side of the palace. The palace of the pretender prince was located in the east of the city, with four gates, tiled roofs, and high towers at each corner. The concubines lived in earthen houses. There were over a thousand maids in the palace, who wove silk fabrics, sold alcohol, raised pigs, sheep, cattle, horses, and grew vegetables, all in order to make money. The Imperial Granary had over eighty underground storage rooms, each capable of holding four thousand hu of grain. There were also several tiled houses used for storing grains, and they established the Shangfang Office, responsible for making iron and wooden tools. The robes and garments worn in the palace were all made by the maids. The pretender prince also had other warehouses.
The outer wall of the imperial city, along the south side, has been divided into neighborhoods, with alleys opened between them. The larger neighborhoods can house four to five hundred families, while the smaller ones can accommodate sixty or seventy families. Whenever a search is conducted in the southern neighborhoods, it is to prevent treachery. Seven miles southwest of the city is Baideng Mountain, where an ancestral temple was constructed. To the west of the city is the Temple of Heaven for sacrifices, featuring forty-nine wooden figures, each over a zhang tall, wearing white headscarves, white skirts, and cloaks made of horsehair, all standing on the Altar of Heaven. Every year on the fourth day of the fourth month, cattle and horses are ritually sacrificed with great fanfare, accompanied by a band playing music. Three miles west of the city, the Five Classics and the national history are carved into stone tablets, including sixty foundation stones from the era of the Stone House in Ye City, each over a zhang long, used as the base for the stone carvings.
Speaking of the country under the rule of the Xianbei people, the titles for officials in the inner court are quite specific! Those serving on the left and right of the inner palace are called "Zhizhen," those on the left and right of the outer palace are called "Wuaizhen," the clerks in Cao's office are called "Bidezhen," those in charge of clothing are called "Pudazhen," the military leaders are called "Huluzhen," the translators are called "Qiwanzhen," the gatekeepers are called "Kebuzhen," those of low status in the palace post stations are called "Fuzhuzhen," those in the post stations of various states are called "Xianzhen," murderers are called "Qihai zhen," those who handle affairs on behalf of their superiors are called "Zhekuizhen," and those who cook for officials and nobles are called "Fuzhen." Regarding officials and nobles of the third rank or above, they are all called "Yangzhen."
Fo Li Wang established the positions of Three Dukes, Grand Chancellor, Minister of Personnel, Pu She, and Shi Zhong to handle state affairs together with the Crown Prince. The Minister of Personnel oversees the military and the storage facilities, the Minister of Music oversees musical affairs and the orchestra, the Minister of Transportation manages the livestock, including cattle, horses, donkeys, and mules, the Southern Minister is responsible for the southern provinces and counties, and the Northern Minister oversees the northern provinces and counties. There are also several special positions, where the position of Qi Qin Di He is equivalent to that of a minister, Mo Di holds a position equivalent to that of a governor, and Yu Ruo holds a rank equivalent to 2,000 shi. The officials' positions are comparable to those of princes. Each department has its own warehouses and designated officials, and they are required to be fluent in both Han and Xianbei languages to facilitate information transmission. The Lan Tai has appointed a Chief Censor and an Imperial Censor, who are responsible for overseeing city affairs. Nine Dou officials have also been appointed to oversee the household registrations of the common people within three li of the palace city, which are not under military jurisdiction.
Their carriages and horses were quite magnificent! There were different sizes of carriages, all five stories tall, with four wheels at the bottom, pulled by anywhere from two to three hundred people, and secured with ropes to prevent tipping over. Dragon flags were inserted on the carriages, with black as the main color. When the concubines traveled, they used brightly colored umbrella covers, without any flags or streamers. When the Empress Dowager traveled, women in armor rode alongside the carriages as guards. The emperor and concubines usually rode in silver-carved sheep carriages, with no curtains blocking their view, sitting slantingly with their feet hanging down, even in the palace. The main hall of the palace was adorned with tassels, decorated with golden incense burners, and dragon-and-phoenix-patterned lacquer screens and brocade curtains, with thick carpets on the floor. In front were golden incense burners, glass bowls, and golden bowls, filled with various tableware. The long platter for guests was a foot long, while the emperor's round plate was a yard in diameter! This was a four-wheeled carriage, and on major holidays, it took sixty to seventy people to carry it into the hall. On the last day of the year, to celebrate the New Year, sacrifices were made to roosters at the city gates, using reed ropes and peach branches, a ritual reminiscent of the Han Dynasty.
It is said that starting from the Buddha Emperor, emperors of all dynasties liked to build elaborate structures. On the west side of the main hall, a platform made of earth was constructed, called the White Tower, where the emperor often went to enjoy the scenery after his abdication. An observatory was also located south of the White Tower. A shrine was also located on the west side of the main hall, with a roof of glazed tiles, especially magnificent. Roofs were also added to the palace gates, making them appear several stories tall. The walls were decorated with mud sculptures of mighty figures, quite majestic. The northern tribes favored water, so they painted patterns of black dragons coiling around the walls, believed to ward off evil.
In the fifth year of the Taishi era, the Emperor abdicated the throne to his son, Zihong, and took the title of retired Emperor. Zihong ascended to the throne and renamed the era Yanxing. In the sixth year of Yanxing, the Emperor died and was posthumously honored as Emperor Xianwen, and the reign title was changed to Chengming, marking the fourth year of Yuanhui. His grandmother, Lady Feng, hailing from Huanglong, played a significant role in state affairs. It is said that Emperor Foli’s mother was Han Chinese and was killed by Mu Mo, so Emperor Foli appointed his wet nurse as Empress Dowager. Since then, when the crown prince took the throne, he frequently had his birth mother killed. Some say that Lady Feng was from Jiangdu and was captured during Emperor Foli's southern campaign in the twenty-seventh year of Yuanjia, and later became his concubine, managing to survive. The next year, in the Year of Dingsi, the reign title was changed to Taihe.
During the later years of Emperor Song Ming, he began to reconcile with the northern ethnic minorities. During the Yuanhui and Shengming years, northern envoys would come to pay tribute every year. In the first year of Jianyuan, also known as the third year of the Wei Taihe era, Zihong heard that Liu Yu had usurped the throne and declared himself emperor. That winter, he sent Prince Danyang Liu Chang as the Grand Preceptor to lead troops to attack Sizhou and Yuzhou. The following year, Liu Yu ordered a northern expedition. Zihong sent generals Yudoujuan and Jiachangming to attack Shouyang and Zhongli, but they were defeated by the governor of Yuzhou, Yuan Chongzu, Right General Zhou Panlong, and the governor of Xuzhou, Cui Wenzhong. Zihong then sent the acting Minister of the Southern Bureau Tobo to lead a hundred thousand troops to attack Sizhou, and also divided troops to attack Yanzhou and Qingzhou, besieging Qushan City. The defender of Qushan City, Xuan Yuandu, fought valiantly to defend the city. The governor of Qingzhou and Jizhou, Lu Shaozhi, sent his son Lu Huan to support. When the city ran out of food, Lu Shaozhi stationed at Shitouting in the south of the province, sending food and firewood to the city across the sea. The northern army blocked the sea route, attacked along the coast, and coincided with the high tide, resulting in the drowning of many enemy soldiers. Xuan Yuandu took advantage of this to counterattack and secure a significant victory. The court then sent generals Cui Lingjian, Yang Fachi, and Fang Lingmin to lead more than ten thousand troops from the Huai River into the sea. At night, the ships displayed two torches, and when the northern army saw this, they mistook it for the Southern Dynasty army and fled in panic. Initially, Xuan Yuandu himself mentioned his ambition to become a marquis on his arm. During the Song Dynasty, he shared this with Emperor Shizu. At that time, Emperor Shizu was still in the Eastern Palace, and he wrote to him, saying, "Work hard and realize the omen on your arm!" When the enemy retreated, the emperor wanted to honor him, but Xuan Yuandu attributed all the credit to Shaozhi, who declined. Therefore, neither of them received any recognition. The emperor then promoted Shaozhi to the rank of Huangmen Lang. Oh, Yuzhou renamed Shitouting to Pinglutin.
Shao Zhi, courtesy name Zixu, was from Fanyang and claimed to be the great-grandson of Lu Chen. During the Daming period of the Song Dynasty, he participated in the campaign against Guangling and made significant contributions. Shao Zhi volunteered for the campaign, and the emperor admired him, appointing him as a state official with many important tasks. He later attained the title of Guanglu Daifu. In the eighth year of Yongming, he passed away.
Three years later, the generals Li Anmin and Sun Wenxian led the army to a victorious battle against the enemy in Huaiyang. At first, the enemy launched raids along the Huai River, instilling fear in the northern populace who recalled the era of Emperor Taiwu of the Northern Wei, but they were powerless to stop them. The court then deployed two armies at Liangshan, three in the south: one at Cilao Mountain, two at Leizhou, two at Sanshan, one at Baishazhou, five at Caizhou, three at Changlu, two at Gupu, and one at Xupu, with rewards and punishments based on their military achievements to instill discipline and deter the enemy.
The pretender Feng Sha, claiming to be King Changli, planned to attack Sizhou, and a local recluse named Huan Tiansheng assured him that the supposed allies would support him. However, when Feng Sha arrived, the supposed allies remained silent. Frustrated, Feng Sha hunted by the Huai River and left. When the battle of Shouchun failed and Xushan could not be captured, the enemy leader came from Dingzhou, prepared to attack the south but hesitated. He then consulted with the false Prince of Liangjun, saying that their troops were demoralized and needed victories to return. However, they were defeated in Huaiyang, resulting in a complete rout of their forces. The militias in Qingzhou and Xuzhou had previously raided the enemy's transport vehicles, resulting in clashes and killings, with many successfully escaping back to the south.
It is said that not long after the establishment of the Southern Qi Dynasty, in order to demonstrate their strength and improve relations with Northern Wei, they sent Rear Army Officer Che Senglang as an envoy to Northern Wei. The people of Northern Wei asked Senglang, "The Southern Qi Dynasty has just been founded, how can they dare to proclaim an emperor?" Senglang replied, "Yu Shun and Xia Yu directly inherited the throne, while Wei and Jin assisted the monarch and then passed on the throne to their descendants. Did Yu Shun and Xia Yu rush to become emperors? Were the virtuous ministers of Wei and Jin content with their own accomplishments? The situations are different; how can they be measured by the same standard? Since the situation requires this, then we must make some compromises and adapt to the circumstances."
The people of Northern Wei asked again, "What achievements does the Emperor of the Southern Qi Dynasty have?" Senglang said, "Our emperor is kind-hearted, compassionate, and knowledgeable. In his youth, he was appreciated by Emperor Wen of the Song Dynasty and entered the court as a guard. During the Taishi period, rebellions were rampant throughout the country. He quickly put down the rebellions of Liu Zifang and Zhang Yan in the east, the rebellion of Xue Suoer in the north, and also managed military and state affairs, assisting the emperor. The princes of Guiyang and Jianping of the Song Dynasty rebelled, and he quickly put down their rebellion. The King of Cangwu was even more notorious than Xia Jie and Shang Zhou. The emperor followed the example of Duke Zhou and Huo Guang by deposing him and installing a new ruler. Yuan Can, Liu Bing, and Shen Youzhi colluded and held military power, and the emperor also subdued them. He worked tirelessly to support the court for forty years, experiencing various hardships and obstacles for fifteen to sixteen years. These accomplishments are beyond reproach."
People of Northern Wei asked again, "There is no longer any territory of the Qi state in the south, why still confer the title of Qi state?" Monk Lang replied, "Yingqiu (now Changle, Shandong) is near the sea and was once a significant territory. The Song dynasty had previously granted this area to Lv Shang as a fief. Now in the region of Huaihai, there are originally Qingzhou and Qizhou, so there is still land available for use." People of Northern Wei asked again, "Why was the King of Cangwu killed?" Monk Lang said, "The King of Cangwu was inherently tyrannical and brutal; there has never been a case as egregious in history. King Wu killed King Zhou and even hung his body on a yellow pole for display; everyone knows this. What's wrong with killing the King of Cangwu?"
During the Shengming period, the envoys of Northern Wei, Yin Lingdan and Gou Zhaoxian, were in Northern Wei and heard that the founding emperor of Qi had ascended the throne as emperor. Yin Lingdan said to the diplomats of Northern Wei, "The Song and Wei dynasties have always been friendly and shared weal and woe. Now that the Song dynasty has perished, why isn't Wei offering assistance? What's the point of being allies?" Later, Northern Wei attacked Yuzhou, and Yin Lingdan requested to serve as the Commander of Liu Chang, but his request was denied. Later, Che Senglang arrived in Northern Wei, and Northern Wei arranged for him to be under Yin Lingdan. Senglang rose to speak and said, "Yin Lingdan used to be an envoy of the Song dynasty, but now he is now a subject of the Qi state. I hope the Wei lord can treat him with respect." As a result, Yin Lingdan and Senglang quarreled, and Yin Lingdan even said to the people of Northern Wei, "An envoy who fails to show loyalty to his own country is truly disgraceful!" In order to bribe the officials of Northern Wei, Liu Chang covertly ordered Jie Fengjun to assassinate Senglang. Northern Wei swiftly apprehended Jie Fengjun and executed him, then arranged for Senglang to have an elaborate burial and allowed Yin Lingdan and others to accompany the coffin back home, also giving Senglang many rewards.
Later, Emperor Wu of Qi ascended the throne, and Gou Zhaoxian reported this matter to the court. Yin Lingdan was imprisoned and eventually died. Emperor Wu of Qi posthumously honored Senglang with the title of Cavalry Attendant.
In the first winter of the Yongming era, the emperor sent the valiant general Liu Zuan and the former general Zhang Mo as envoys to Northern Wei. In the second winter, Northern Wei sent envoy Li Daogu to return the visit. The emperor was at Xuanwu Lake, conducting military exercises with naval and infantry forces, and even took a special dragon boat to meet him. Since then, envoys from both countries have frequently visited each other, and the border has been peaceful.
In the third year, the court began to implement a new grassroots management system, stipulating that every five families constitute a neighborhood, five neighborhoods make a district, and five districts form a group, with each unit having an official in charge of management. In the fourth year, the process of household registration began, and the states and counties were reorganized. A total of thirty-eight states were established, including twenty-five states in the Henan region: Yongzhou, Liangzhou, Qinzhou, Shazhou, Jingzhou, Huazhou, Qizhou, Hezhou, Xihuazhou, Ningzhou, Shanzhou, Luozhou, Jingzhou, Yizhou, Beiyuzhou, Dongjingzhou, Nanyuzhou, Xiyanzhou, Dongyanzhou, Nanxuzhou, Dongxuzhou, Qingzhou, Qizhou, and Jizhou; and thirteen states in the Hebei region: Xiangzhou, Huaizhou, Fenzhou, Dongyongzhou, Sizhou, Dingzhou, Yingzhou, Shuozhou, Bingzhou, Jizhou, Youzhou, Pingzhou, and Sizhou. These states encompass the ten states from the Wei and Jin periods (Si, Yu, Qing, Yan, Ji, Bing, You, Qin, Yong, Liang), as well as the Huaibei region that was lost during the Song dynasty.
In the second year, a man named Huan Tiansheng rebelled on the border, and Northern Wei sent more than ten thousand cavalry and infantry to help him, fighting up to Biyang. They were ultimately defeated by our General Daisheng Jing and his troops. There was also a man named Hu Qiusheng who rebelled in Xuanhu, but he was also defeated by Northern Wei and fled. At the same time, the so-called generals of Northern Wei (Duke Dongdong) and Duke Pingnan attacked Wuyin, but were repelled by Wuyin's defending general, General Fuguo Yin Gongmin. In the sixth year, Northern Wei sent troops to support Huan Tiansheng and fought against our General Fuguo Cao Hu, which resulted in a significant defeat at Gecheng. By the seventh year, we dispatched envoys Xing Chan and Hou Lingshao to mend relations with Northern Wei. Prior to this, Liu Zuan had made two diplomatic trips to Northern Wei, and Empress Dowager Feng admired him and they became friends. Empress Dowager Feng was quite strategic and authored eighteen "Imperial Edicts," with the so-called Left Supervisor Li Sichong providing annotations. That year, Empress Dowager Feng passed away. In the eighth year, the emperor captured over two thousand individuals in the battle at Gecheng. It is said that after Tuoba Tao (Foli) ascended to power, he became somewhat erratic, blending the cultures of the Hu and Han peoples. Nevertheless, he was quite cultured, articulate, a skilled writer, and possessed considerable foresight. Once, he went to Hebei and visited the tomb of Bi Gan, where he penned a eulogy for Bi Gan, stating, "If it weren't for King Wu's overthrow of King Zhou, who would come to repair your tomb? Oh, you were such an upright person, why didn't you join me?" He also built Yuanqiu and Fangze in the year of Jisi and married three wives and nine concubines, leading a carefree and indulgent life. There's a dry river south of Pingcheng that flows from Dingxiang to the sea, fifty miles away from the city, locally known as Suogandu. The weather in that area is cold, with strong winds and sandstorms, even snowing in June, which is quite harsh. As a result, he contemplated relocating the capital to Luoyang.
After nine years, he sent Li Daogu and Jiang Shaoyou as envoys to the Southern Dynasties. Jiang Shaoyou was very clever and secretly observed the style of the Southern Dynasties' palaces and gathered information. Cui Yuanzu from Qinghe said to Emperor Taiwu of Northern Wei, "Shaoyou is my nephew; he is a skilled designer. When the Song Dynasty was defeated by us, he even served as a master craftsman! Now letting him be a deputy envoy, he must want to secretly draw the palace blueprints. How can we allow someone from the remote frontier to spy on our royal palace? I think we should keep him here and wait for him to return to report back." Emperor Taiwu thought Cui Yuanzu made sense, but he didn't want to ruin relations with the Southern Dynasties, so he did not agree. Jiang Shaoyou hailed from Anle, and later, all the palace designs of Northern Wei were his ideas.
Initially, Tuoba Tao attacked Chang'an and killed nearly all the monks there. Later, during the Yuanjia period of the Southern Dynasties, they attacked Northern Wei and captured many monks, even caging them in iron cages. Later, Tuoba Tao fell seriously ill, likely out of guilt, so he started to believe in Buddhism and built many pagodas and temples. After Tuoba Hong's father, Hong Chan, ascended the throne, he donned yellow Daoist robes, wore plain clothes, observed fasting, chanted Buddhist sutras, and lived in a rock-cut temple for cultivation. In the third year of Taihe during Tuoba Hong's reign, a monk named Fashow conspired with Wang Aruguai and others to rebel. After the plot was exposed, Fashow was arrested and put in an iron cage, but he inexplicably freed himself. The conspirators then drilled a hole through his neck bone and chanted a spell: "If you are truly divine, let this stick not go through!" The stick still pierced through, and Fashow died three days later. Later, the pretender King Xianyang wanted to kill all the monks, but Empress Dowager Feng disagreed. Tuoba Hong was particularly devoted to Buddhism and had some understanding of Buddhist principles. He also built a pagoda in the palace.
It is said that Hong (referring to a high official) experienced the changes in Luoyang. This year, the emperor issued a decree to the Minister Shangshu Shishen, saying, "The functioning of the heavens and the earth, the growth of all things, all rely on the laws of the four seasons; the operation of the sun and moon also relies on the light of the five planets. Think about our Holy Empress Dowager; her wisdom is extraordinary, and her achievements are unparalleled. We must learn from her example and constantly improve ourselves. Unfortunately, she met with disaster due to certain transgressions and passed away, which is truly a tragedy! I plan to follow the late emperor's wishes and build the Mingtang. The design you created integrates all things of heaven and earth, surpasses ancient architecture, is perfect in reasoning, and has sufficient meaning. It can serve as a model for generations to come. You are truly a talent born for this time! The ministers have seen the design, and all think it is good and want to start construction quickly. Although I am inexperienced, I also want to hold a grand ceremony. Stop the construction of the palace city this year and focus on building the Mingtang with all your efforts, fulfilling the late emperor's wishes and realizing my own desires."
The emperor issued another decree, ordering the officials to discuss the establishment of laws together. He also ordered the cancellation of the exorcism ceremony before the twelfth month, holding it only once a year. He further decreed, "In the winter morning court greetings, there were no written rules before. Wearing casual clothes for court greetings is not a respectful gesture. If one wears winter court attire, it will only cause unnecessary trouble. Starting now, cancel the minor court greetings and only hold court greetings on the first day of the new year."
The emperor issued another decree, saying, "Noble titles are not to be usurped by ordinary people. The title of Count is an established rank among the five ranks. The descendants will retain their original noble titles, while other kings will be demoted to Marquis, Marquis to Count, Count to Viscount, and Viscount to Baron. The ranks for sons and males will remain the same. Although the names have changed, the ranks are the same as before. A Duke is the first rank, a Marquis is the second rank, a Count is the third rank, a Viscount is the fourth rank, and a Baron is the fifth rank."
Ten years ago, the court sent the Minister of Rites, Xiao Chen, and Fan Yun to Northern Wei as envoys. Xiao Daocheng held a grand ceremony in the western suburbs, the site of ancient sacrifices to the Temple of Heaven. He and the officials of the false court rode horses in military attire, circling around the Temple of Heaven. Xiao Daocheng circled once, while the officials circled seven times, referred to as "treading the altar." The next day, they wore military uniforms again and ascended the Temple of Heaven to perform sacrifices. Xiao Daocheng circled three times, while the officials still circled seven times, referred to as "circling the heavens." They also used ropes to weave a framework, covered with blue cloth, creating a circular canopy with a flat top that could seat around a hundred people, sometimes called a "hundred-son tent." They rested and ate underneath it. Afterwards, they went to worship temples and the Ministry of Works, all shown to the court envoys. Every time an envoy arrived, Xiao Daocheng personally received them and explained matters to them. He particularly valued capable officials from the south, often telling his subordinates, "There are many good officials in the south." Li Yuankai, an attendant of the false court, replied, "Although there are many good officials in the south, they change masters every year; although there are no good officials in the north, they can have one master for a hundred years." Xiao Daocheng was embarrassed by this remark, so he demoted Li Yuankai to the position of Chief of Yongzhou, but later recalled him after a while.
When Emperor Shizu first began to govern Baixia City, he said, "I want to use this city as a forward base for the army." Later, he built three thousand carts in the Stone City, intending to attack Pengcheng by land, making his ambitions clear. Eight years before this, the Northern Wei envoys Yan Youming and Liu Sixiu returned to their country and reported back. Li Sichong, the southern official of the rival dynasty, said, "The peace between the two countries is to protect the people. I've heard that the Southern Dynasty is building many ships and carts, planning to attack the Huai River and Sishui. We sincerely made peace; how can this be?" Yan Youming replied, "Our emperor has established a trustworthy image in the world and has never betrayed his subjects. Since we have already made peace, how can we play both sides? The notion of going to war is simply not credible. Moreover, even if the court were truly angry and sent troops to guard the border, they would not easily attack the Huai River." Li Sichong said, "Our country is strong and can easily occupy the area east of the Huai River. What's there to be afraid of? Being able to conquer the East Sea and Mount Tai hinges on keeping promises. Since we have already made peace, how can we not keep our word? In the past, Hua Yuan and Zifan, even during the war, could honestly inform each other of the situation. This spirit is worth emulating!" Yan Youming said, "You are not yet in a situation as desperate as Zifan, so let's not talk about such requests for reconciliation!"
Later, Hou Jing also wanted to invade Xuzhou and Yuzhou in the south, storing a large amount of fodder between the Huai River and the Si River. Eleven years later, Hou Jing sent messengers bearing battle reports and memorials, claiming he would march south to attack the court. Emperor Gao Yang mobilized the populace of Yangzhou and Xuzhou, vigorously recruiting soldiers. At the same time, the northern people (referring to those from the northwest) led by Yuchi Jing led a rebellion with several thousand followers at the Western Mountain north of Chang'an City. Yuchi Jing sent messengers to inform the Governor of Liangzhou, Yin Zhibo. Wang Du from Qinzhou also responded to Yuchi Jing's rebellion, capturing the pretender Liu Zao. The people of Qinzhou, Yongzhou, and seven other provinces joined the uprising one after another, with the rebel forces swelling to one hundred thousand, each holding onto their own cities and hoping for reinforcements from the court. Hou Jing sent his brother, the pretender Prince of Henan, Hou Gan, and the Secretary Lu Yangwu to attack the rebel forces in Qinzhou and Yongzhou, leading to a significant defeat for Hou Gan. Yuchi Jing met them in battle, fighting all the way to Zhuogu in the north of Xianyang, surrounding the pretender Minister of War, Prince Changluo Miao Laoseng. After a fierce battle, Yuchi Jing secured a decisive victory, and Miao Laoseng fled back to Chang'an. Yin Zhibo, the Governor of Liangzhou, also dispatched troops led by generals including Zhuxi Deren and Zhang Honglin to support Yuchi Jing and others, marching towards Chang'an. Wherever they went, the enemy forces were routed.
At this moment, Gao Yang had just died. Hou Jing heard that the situation in Guanzhong was critical, so he used Gao Yang's death as an excuse to withdraw his troops. In August of the seventeenth year of Taihe, the emperor sent an envoy, the Grand General of Annam, Xu Qing, to command the military affairs of the three regions of Qi, Nan, and Jing, as well as the General of Southern Zhong, the Governor of Xuzhou, the Chief of Staff of the Marquis of Guangling, and the Prefect of Huaiyang, Lu Shusheng, to deliver an edict to the Prefects of Qizhou and Yanzhou: "By order of the emperor, convey the edict: The imperial army is brimming with momentum, marching south, determined to clear the murky waters of the Yangtze River, aspiring to expand the vast territory. The original plan was to cross the Yellow River by the end of next month and advance to the Heluo region. After the return of the previous envoy Xing Luan and others, a detailed understanding of the enemy's situation was obtained, revealing their formidable strength. The 'Spring and Autumn Annals' states that when hearing of the enemy sovereign's death, one should cease hostilities. Therefore, orders have been given to the relevant departments to halt the advance of the army, allow the warhorses to rest, and store away weapons. We should follow the customs and regulations of the Zhou Dynasty, consolidate the Central Plains region, ensure the lasting prosperity of the imperial family, and pass down the flourishing era for generations. Upon the emperor's passing, the world mourns, yet with the court's new policies, peace prevails, and there is reason to celebrate. This notice is issued for your compliance." At the same time, people were sent to offer condolences for the national mourning. Later, Hou Jing sent the false generals Yang Dayan and Zhang Congming, along with others, to lead tens of thousands of troops against Yu Chijiong, resulting in the deaths of Yu Chijiong and other generals.
In the year 451 AD, the court sent the Minister of War, Liu Xiao, and the Cavalry Commander, Shen Hong, on a mission to the north. Shen Hong's courtesy name was Xuanlan. That summer, the Northern Wei General Lu Zhiqing surrendered to the Southern Song Dynasty and was appointed as the Military Governor of Luozhou, and held titles such as Colonel Who Pacifies the North, General Who Conquers the Enemy, and Governor of Luozhou. In that same year, Shen Hong moved to Luoyang and changed his surname to Yuan. There was a woman named Tuoba among the Xiongnu who married Li Ling. According to the customs of the Huns, they took the mother's surname as their own, which led these Xiongnu to claim descent from Li Ling. They were extremely sensitive about this being mentioned, and anyone who dared to say they were descendants of Li Ling would be killed. Only at this point did Shen Hong feel bold enough to change his surname.
Shen Hong learned that Emperor Gaozong of the Song Dynasty had come to power illegitimately, and he had just moved to Luoyang, so he sought to demonstrate his military strength. That winter, he personally led a large army to launch attacks on the provinces of Yuzhou, Xuzhou, Sizhou, and Liangzhou. He also sent the self-proclaimed Governor of Jingzhou, Xue Zhendu, and the Minister Xie Qia Po from Nanyang to attack Shayu, build fortifications, and dig trenches, but were defeated by the Governors of Nanyang, Fang Boyu, and Xinye, Liu Siji.
In the spring of 452 AD, Song Gaozong sent General Wang Guangzhi from Sizhou, General Shen Wenji from Yuzhou, and General Cui Huijing from Xuzhou to lead troops. Shen Hong personally led a large army to Shouyang. In his army, there was a black felt tent that could accommodate twenty people sitting. The guards around the carriage were dressed in Sanlang-style garments, with most of the spears decorated with white streamers, and groups of cavalry continuously connected in the front and back. The infantry carried black shields and spears, followed by troops carrying black toad banners. Ox carts, donkeys, and camels transported military supplies and courtesans, with a total force exceeding 30,000. They did not attack the city but directly ascended Bagong Mountain, after reciting a poem, before leaving. They then surrounded Zhongli City, where Governor Xiao Huixiu of Xuzhou and Assistant General Shen Xizu defended the city and launched a counterattack. Shen Hong's forces were defeated, with many casualties in the Huai River. Shen Hong then divided his troops to occupy Shaoyang Prefecture, erected barriers to obstruct the waterways, and built two cities. General Xiao Tanzhi sent troops led by Pei Shuye to attack these two cities and successfully captured both cities. Xiao Huixiu rallied additional forces and employed fire to destroy the enemy's siege engines. Exhausted and demoralized, the enemy ultimately failed to capture the cities.
After Wang Huan was killed, Zisu fled to the northern tribes. The court appointed Wang Hong as the General of the Southern Guard and the Inspector of Nanyuzhou. Wang Hong sent Zisu and Liu Chang to lead a purported army of two hundred thousand to besiege Yiyang City. The Inspector of Sizhou, Xiao Dan, resisted and defended the city, while the besieging forces built three layers of walls and moats, burned all the houses in the city, and launched a full-scale assault. The townspeople took up shields and defended the city walls. Wang Guangzhi led a relief force, and the enemy dispatched over thirty thousand troops to intercept Prince Xiao Jichang, leading to his defeat. Yiyang City called for help; Wang Guangzhi sent the army, taking a shortcut led by the King of Liang, who also served as the Minister of the Yellow Gate, to occupy Xianshou Mountain, surprising the enemy. Upon seeing the reinforcements arrive, Xiao Dan dispatched Chief Historian Wang Boyu and Military Master Cui Gongzu to launch an attack on the enemy camp, capitalizing on the wind to ignite a fire, while the reinforcements led by the King of Liang flanked from the outside. Liu Chang and Zisu were forced to abandon the siege and retreat, ultimately being defeated during the pursuit.
General Huan He of the Fu Guo set out from Xiyingping. The pretender to the title of Duke of Lu, Tan Chengshu, and the pretender to the title of Governor of the East China Sea, Jiang Dao Seng, laid an ambush along the road. Huan He engaged them in battle and achieved a decisive victory. Several hundred households in Qingzhou and Xuzhou surrendered to the imperial court. Wang Hongfan, the governor of Qingzhou and Jizhou, sent Army Commander Cui Yan to assault the enemy-held Jicheng and captured it. Wang Hong also sent the pretender to the title of Shangshu, Lu Yangwu, and the Huaizhou governor, Wei Lingzhi, to attack Zheyang City. The governor of Beixiang City, Cheng Gongqi, defended the city. The enemy besieged the city for over a hundred days, employing hook ladders and various siege equipment to launch relentless attacks day and night, resulting in thousands of casualties among Cheng Gongqi's forces. The imperial court dispatched Army Commanders Yuan Lisheng and Cai Daogui to provide reinforcements, compelling Lu Yangwu and his forces to withdraw. In the summer, the enemy launched an assault on the two garrisons at Licheng in Sizhou. The garrison commanders Wei Sengmin and Zhu Sengqi mounted a defense and successfully repelled the enemy.
Prince Wei Yuan led an army of over 100,000 troops from Xigu and attacked Nanzheng. The defender of Nanzheng, Xiao Yi, sent Jiang Shan'an and Zhao Chaozong with over 10,000 soldiers to defend at Jiaonu, Baima, and Jushui, which led to a significant defeat. Yuan Ying surrounded Nanzheng, employing earthworks and siege engines for relentless attacks day and night. Xiao Yi defended with over 2,000 soldiers, simultaneously fighting and dismantling the enemy's siege equipment. Yuan Ying attacked Nanzheng from spring to summer, failing to capture it for over 60 days and incurring severe casualties. The army exhausted its food supplies, resorting to grinding grains into flour and selling wild vegetables at exorbitant prices.
Previously, Xiao Yi had sent Han Song and others to enlist the help of the Liao people, but the troops were ambushed by Yuan Ying on their way back to support Nanzheng at Huangniu River. Xiao Yi then sent the Di people Yang Yuanshuo back to Chouchi to persuade the Di people to rise up and cut off Yuan Ying's supply line. The Di people answered the call and swiftly took six of Yuan Ying's strongholds, including Licheng, Lan, Luogu, Chouchi, Pingluo, and Sule. The fake Shangshu and the governor of Beiliangzhou, Xin Heimo, were also killed in battle. Yuan Ying sent Yang Lingzhen to guard Nigong Mountain but faced a major defeat at the hands of Yang Jilang, the brother of Yang Ji, and the returning Di people Yang Fu and the leader of the rebel army Xu Yaofu at Huanggen. Meanwhile, wealthy locals Fan Ning and Liang Jiqun in Nanzheng hosted a feast to lure Yuan Ying, planning to ambush him, but their scheme was uncovered, leading Yuan Ying to capture and kill Liang Jiqun, while Fan Ning escaped. Yuan Ying retreated to Zhuoshui upon learning that the Di army was gaining strength, and then retreated to Xiegu with Yang Lingzhen. Caught in a heavy rain, they were soaked and had to cook rice by chopping bamboo and holding torches while on horseback. When they reached Xiabian, Yang Lingzhen's brother Poluo Abzhen rebelled and attacked Yuan Ying, causing Yuan Ying's army to disperse, and he was shot in the cheek by an arrow. The phony general Lingjiang, Yue Yangsheng, fought valiantly to protect Yuan Ying with his iron cavalry, allowing him to escape danger. Eventually, the regions of Liangzhou and Hanzhong were brought under control. The Wudu Prefect Du Lingyuan, the Fendou General Wang Faji, the Ningshuo General Wang Fatai, and the Zhouchizhong Huang Fu Dan all died in the battle against the enemy. Later, the court posthumously promoted Lingyuan and Faji to Yulin Supervisors, and Fatai to Jishe General.
It is said that at the time, Jia Yi, who impersonated the Governor of Luozhou, attacked Jiaokou, but was defeated by the Governor of Shangluo, Li Jing. Three years later, the enemy attacked Li City in Sizhou, but was blocked by the defending commander Wei Sengmin and also failed. In autumn, the enemy sent troops to attack Liankou. Zheng Yanzhi, the Governor of Donghai, abandoned the West City and made a run for it, while the East City continued to resist. The court then sent Xu Xuanqing, the Champion General and Governor of Yanzhou, to rescue. When the enemy saw the situation was unfavorable, they withdrew. Zheng Yanzhi took the initiative to admit his wrongdoing for fleeing.
Furthermore, initially, the pretender Empress Feng had two daughters with her brother Feng Sha, the King of Changli. The elder daughter, Feng, was beautiful but not in good health, so she became a nun. The younger daughter later became the Empress and gave birth to the false Crown Prince Xun. After the elder daughter Feng recovered from her illness, the younger daughter brought her into the palace and appointed her as a concubine. When the capital was relocated, Crown Prince Xun was discontented and wanted to return to his hometown of Sanggan. The Empress made clothes and hats for him, but Xun tore the clothes, shaved his head, and donned left-lapel garments, looking like he wanted to rebel. At this time, the elder daughter Feng, who had regained favor, spoke ill of Crown Prince Xun to the Empress every day. One time, when the Empress ventured out of Ye City to ride and shoot arrows, Crown Prince Xun seized the opportunity to attempt an escape back to the north, secretly selecting three thousand good horses from the palace to hide at Heyin Zhu. When the Empress learned of this, she immediately arrested Crown Prince Xun and quickly informed the elder daughter Feng. The elder daughter Feng imprisoned Crown Prince Xun in Wuni City, which was located two miles north of Heqiao. Not long after, Crown Prince Xun was executed and buried in accordance with common customs. The elder daughter Feng was subsequently made Empress, and a new pretender Crown Prince Ke was installed. This year marked the 20th year of the Wei Dynasty.
The false General of the Northern Wei, Governor of Hengzhou, Duke of Julu, Fulu Guhelun, was stationed at Sangqian to guard the border. The Empress's uncle, Prince Anshou of Pingyang, was positioned at Huaizha, northwest of Sangqian. Fulu Guhelun, who disapproved of the Empress's reliance on Han officials, conspired with the false Governor of Dingzhou, Duke Fengyi, and Duke Tuo Ba of Anle to install Anshou as emperor and then carve up Hebei. They plotted for a long time but failed to succeed. Anshou, fearing for his life, informed the Empress about the conspiracy. Enraged, the Empress had Fulu Guhelun and his followers executed, but permitted Anshou to keep his position.
First of all, Xue Zhendu and Qi Qi, these two pretender officials, were both defeated by Fang Boyu, which made Helian Bobo very angry. He swore to take down this little place called Nanyang to seek revenge. After four years, he personally led his troops to Yongzhou. Helian Bobo arrived in Nanyang first, but Fang Boyu remained holed up in the city and refused to come out. Helian Bobo, leading tens of thousands of cavalry under yellow umbrellas, was just a mile from the city. He sent a man named Gongsun Yun to tell Fang Boyu: "I am now going to unify the country, unlike those before me. In the past, people would leave in winter and return in spring, not staying for long; but I swear, if I don't take down Nanyang, I won't return to the north, even if it takes three to five years. The city you are defending is the first step in my unification of the country and must be taken first. Optimistically, it will take a year, at most a hundred days, at least a month, to take it down. If you do not surrender, I will cut off your head and hang it at the camp gate for all to see! The whole city listens to you; if you surrender, everyone can be spared. But you have committed three major crimes, and I’ll lay them out for you now. You previously served the former emperor, working by his side, but didn't remain loyal to him. Instead, you came to join me, and that's your first crime. Two years ago, you defeated Xue Zhendu, and that's your second crime. The descendants of the former emperor were all killed, yet you didn't seek revenge; instead, you came to join me, going against the natural way of things, which is your third crime. I won't let you off the hook. Think carefully; don’t let the whole city pay the price for your actions!"
Fang Boyu sent his deputy Le Zhirou to respond, saying, "Since you want to attack us and are confident of winning, we, the small fry, can resist a powerful force like yours, which would be a noble death. I have received favor from the former emperor and served him loyally like a dog. How could I forget his kindness? However, the former emperor was incompetent and unreasonable, acting against reason. You are a wise ruler, inheriting the national cause, which has nothing to do with the rise and fall of the state. Therefore, surrendering to you would leave me with a clear conscience. Even if I don't surrender, my conscience remains clear. Two years ago, Xue Zhendu colluded with the border tribes in rebellion, and we defeated him. Since we have received the country's favor, we naturally must strive to maintain national stability. As for the charges you mentioned, all I can say is, I have a clear conscience." Helian Bobo stopped his troops in front of the city's southern temple and crossed the moat bridge from the southeast corner. Fang Boyu first sent out several warriors dressed in spotted clothes and wearing tiger-head hats, who suddenly rushed out from their ambush, startling Helian Bobo's army and resulting in several casualties. Helian Bobo called on the skilled archer Yuan Lingdu to take them out, and Yuan Lingdu shot down one with an arrow. Then Helian Bobo continued his attack. At that time, Helian Bobo launched a massive invasion to the south, with thirty-six armies led by the so-called King Yuan Ji of Xianyang, Pengcheng King Yuan Xie, Palace Attendant Wang Yuansong, Baozhang King Yuan Li, Guangling Marquis Yuan Xie, Grand General Liu Chang, Wang Su, Yang Dayan, Xi Kangsheng, Changsun Zhi, and others, attacking continuously with a total of a million troops. The royal armies beat red drums, the noble armies beat green drums, the baron armies beat black drums, and various instruments played, with the deafening sound of drums and horns echoing across the land.
Hong kept this young man, disguising himself as King Xianyang, surrounded Nanyang with his troops and even launched an attack on Xinye. The Prefect of Xinye, Liu Siji, tenaciously defended the city. Hong first dispatched General Hu Song to assist Prefect Cheng Gongqi of Beixiangcheng in defending Zheyang City, and then sent Bao Ju to help Prefect Huang Yao of Xirunan and Beiyiyang defend Wuyin City. What do you call this? Mobilizing troops and generals! Hong relentlessly assaulted Xinye City, with fighting never ceasing. He even sent someone to shout, "Fang Boyu has surrendered, why are you still holding on in Xinye? Do you want to get yourselves killed?" Siji replied, "The soldiers in the city are strong, and the supplies are plentiful; we have no time to waste on you little pests!" Cao Hu, the Inspector of Yongzhou, also brought his troops to Junkou but didn't dare to push forward.
In the first year of Yongtai, Xinye City fell and Liu Siji was captured. His captors asked him, "Do you want to surrender now?" Siji angrily replied, "I would rather be a ghost in the south than a subject in the north!" He died shortly after. Later, the court posthumously honored him as Champion General and Governor of Liangzhou, to honor him. This incident terrified the people in the northern Mian region. The defenders of Huyang Fortress, Cai Daofu, the lord of Zheyang, Cheng Gongqi, General Hu Song, the lord of Wuyin, Huang Yao, General Baoju, and the Prefect of Congyang, Xi Qian, all abandoned their cities and fled. The enemy's pursuers caught Huang Yao, and the ruthless Wang Su had Huang Yao's flesh cut into pieces and eaten! Afterwards, the court similarly posthumously honored Huang Yao as Champion General and Governor of Yanzhou. A few days later, Fang Boyu also surrendered. Fang Boyu was from Qinghe. After surrendering, the enemy wanted to appoint him as Dragon Cavalry General, but he declined the offer. Emperor Gaozong understood his intentions and provided his son Xizhe with five thousand coins and twenty hu of rice each month to support them. Later, Fang Boyu requested from the enemy to be appointed as the Prefect of a county in the south, becoming the Prefect of Fengyi. His son was still young, so he taught his son how to ride, always thinking of returning to the south. As the Yongyuan era drew to a close, his son Xizhe actually surrendered to the enemy. Upon hearing this, Fang Boyu was enraged and shouted, "Although I am weak and unable to sacrifice for the country, I still hope you stay in the court to repay the country's kindness! I secretly considered rebelling, how could you be so foolish!" With that, he died from his rage.
As for the Northern Wei, they occupied five counties north of the Mian Shui. At that time, Erzhu Rong personally led two hundred thousand cavalry troops, defeated Prince Tai and his general Cui Huijing, all the way to Dengcheng, then to Fancheng, made a circuit around the Mian Shui, and returned to Luoyang. Upon returning to Luoyang, he heard that General Chen Xianda was deploying military forces in those five counties and had surrounded the army in a large circle. Erzhu Rong immediately led his troops south, defeated Chen Xianda, who died in battle. Erzhu Rong returned to Luoyang with Chen Xianda's funeral, and before reaching Luoyang, he pretended to issue an edict, summoning the pretender Crown Prince Yuan Ke to Luoyang. After Yuan Ke arrived, Erzhu Rong dressed him in imitation mourning attire and began the funeral. After arriving in Luoyang, Erzhu Rong officially announced to all the states and counties that everyone should mourn for him, dress in mourning clothes, and posthumously confer upon him the title of Emperor Xiaowen.
That year, Wang Su was appointed as the official rank administrator by Northern Wei, responsible for the ranks of officials in accordance with the Central Plains system. There were a total of nine ranks, each divided into upper and lower levels. When Wang Su first joined Northern Wei, he voluntarily told Erzhu Rong about his family being killed, which brought Erzhu Rong to tears. Erzhu Rong then married his sixth sister, the pretender Princess of Pengcheng, to Wang Su, granted him the title of Duke of Pingyuan, constructed a house for him, even decorating the walls with fragrant spices. From then on, Wang Su gained Erzhu Rong's trust. After Yuan Ke succeeded to the throne, he changed the era name to Jingming in the second year of Yongyuan.
The Governor of Yuzhou, Pei Shuye, surrendered to Northern Wei with Shouchun. Before this, the pretender Governor of Dongxu, Shen Ling, also surrendered with his own army. Shen Ling, originally from Wuxing, had defected to Northern Wei out of disappointment, but ended up thriving there. After the death of Erzhu Rong, he returned south, and the court appointed him multiple times as the Governor of Xuzhou and Yuezhou. At that time, Wang Su was the pretender General of the Southern Expedition and the Governor of Yuzhou in Northern Wei. Just after losing such an important city, the people fled, and rumors circulated that Wang Su intended to return to the court. The Emperor issued a decree appointing Wang Su as Commissioner, Attendant, Governor of Yuxu, Right General, and Governor of Yuzhou, granting him the title of Duke of Xifeng with a fief of 2,000 households.
After Northern Wei occupied Huainan, in the summer of that year, they sent the pretender Champion General and Governor of Southern Yuzhou, Xi Fayou, to attack the Prefects of Beixincai and Anfeng, Hu Jinglue, in Jian'an City. This battle lasted over a hundred days and resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of soldiers. The court failed to send any reinforcements, and the city eventually fell, with Hu Jinglue being captured by Northern Wei. In winter, Northern Wei sent General Huan Daofu to attack the Prefect of Suijun, Cui Shizhao, and he was also defeated.
It is said that King Fu Xi of Xianyang felt that Fu Ke was young, so he gathered with Di tribe leaders Yang Shi, Yang Lingyou, Qifu Maju, and several Xianbei generals such as Zhi Hu, Li Boshang, and about ten others to meet at Hongchi Pond. As a result, Fu Ke took the opportunity while Fu Xi was hunting in Beimang to take out Fu Xi. Fu Xi hesitated for a moment and thought about waiting for another day. Qifu Maju advised him, "Your Highness, if you’re not going to Beimang, just march back to Luoyang and shut the city gates. The Emperor will probably head to the north bank of the Sanggan River, and also cut off all the bridges over the Yellow River. Then you will become the Emperor of Henan, ruling the realm from across the river. This is a rare opportunity!" But Fu Xi still didn't listen to him.
Yang Lingyou felt that Fu Xi might turn against him, so he hurried to tell Fu Ke. Fu Xi realized that the matter had been exposed and wanted to quickly cross the Yellow River to escape, but it was dark and raining, which made him lose his way. By the time he reached Xiaoyi Relay Station, Fu Ke had already seized control of Luoyang. Fu Ke sent his brother, the Prince of Guangping, with several hundred cavalry to enter the palace first, check that everything was in order before coming back. Then Fu Ke sent his Third Guard to hunt down Fu Xi, and finally caught him and executed him right there. According to Xianbei customs, rebels can’t be buried, so they left Fu Xi’s body in Beimang. Meanwhile, Wang Su also passed away from illness.
The historical records show that after the split between the Qi State and the northern nomadic tribes, the state established in the Jiangnan region has lasted for three generations. The land of Huaxia was fragmented; the old capital was shattered, and seizing opportunities and preventing conflict, the Eastern Jin Dynasty rose. Leveraging the influence of their uncle, Emperor Jin Yuan (Sima Rui), Yu Liang and Yu Yi believed they could seize military control, but Yu Liang was defeated and killed in battle at Zhucheng, and Yu Yi withdrew his troops after arriving in Xiangyang. Chu Pou led the elite troops of Xuzhou and Yanzhou, but they were completely defeated in the region of Zoulu. Yin Hao led the army of Yangzhou and Yuzhou, also suffering a significant defeat at Shansang. Huan Wen demonstrated exceptional talent and strategic acumen from a young age, and with the momentum of pacifying the Shu region, he marched to Xianyang Pass, engaging in battles with enemy forces in Luoyang and Ye City.
However, the Xianbei tribe relied on the formidable natural defenses of the sea, while the Qiang tribe and the northern nomadic tribes occupied the Qin and Dai regions, establishing rival states, with a precarious situation and equal strength. Emperor Wu of Song seized the opportunity to defeat them one by one, eventually eliminating them. When the Northern Wei unified the north, the Henan region was lost, and the military strength and territory were no longer what they once were. Although Emperor Wen of Song had the assistance of wise ministers, he could not accurately assess the enemy situation, resulting in repeated defeats and heavy losses in battle. During the Taishi period, due to the betrayal of border generals, the Huaibei region fell, forcing the court to seek peace through marriage alliances. Just as Emperor Taizu of Song had established his dynasty and had not yet had the opportunity to launch campaigns, war erupted with an invasion from the north, encroaching on the border regions. The Huai River and Yuzhou regions achieved victories, while the forces in Qingzhou and Haizhou faced defeats, and the Song army easily secured multiple victories by allowing the enemy to exhaust themselves.
Since the fall of the four states, the people have been yearning for their homeland. The new dynasty has just been established, and the people are praising the court's grace, taking up arms and courageously fighting the enemy, strengthening fortifications, and hoping for the arrival of the southern army. The emperor is familiar with border warfare, reorganizing military discipline and formulating strategies, as if victory is within reach for the frontline soldiers, and soon they will be able to pacify Linhuai and Pengcheng. However, the generals are slow to advance, reinforcements are slow to arrive, and the militia responded en masse, with every household participating in the war. Due to lost opportunities, the court's northern expedition plan was put on hold, the war was stopped, and recuperation began, awaiting future development. During the Yongming period, the court strengthened border defenses according to the established strategy, the border passes were secure, and the border people lived and worked in peace, no longer having any greedy ambitions. The people engaged in agricultural production, with no unemployment, all thanks to the proper policies of the court.
The thickets indicate the dangers of war; once the enemy invades, the resulting trauma is difficult to recover from. Is this not clear evidence? In the early years of Jianwu, the northern nomadic tribes invaded the south, and the key towns of Yuzhou and Xuzhou defended their cities, stored troops, and dared not engage the enemy head-on. The nomadic cavalry trampled the land of the Huai River and fertile fields, often found themselves fighting on their own territory. The enemy attacked cities, plundered wealth, and since the dynasty was founded, such a dire situation has never occurred. In addition, with the migration of northern nomadic tribes to the Central Plains, they imitated the ceremonial practices of the former capital. In the northern areas of Yongzhou and Sizhou, near Xuchang and Luoyang, there were hundreds of miles of flat roads, with postal stations and roads connecting in all directions. The Han Dynasty's main thoroughfare, Chidao, leads directly to Zhangling, with carriages and horses coming and going, departing in the morning and returning in the evening.
Northern nomadic tribes, despite their relatively weak strength, implemented a strategy of vast land, possessed a powerful army, and personally led their forces south to invade. The war dragged on for years, with fighting never ceasing. The court's strategy was weak and submissive; no one could resist, so the fortifications in Nanyang were breached, the walls of Xinye fell, and the fields cultivated by the people became the enemy's pastures. Although the court dispatched soldiers and generals, all set out from Huainan, the danger north of the Mian River had not been eliminated, and they were already defeated in Guoyang. Tax collection was almost exhausted, the people were displaced, and every household was filled with complaints, as life became unbearable. The opportunity for recovery was truly a matter of fate; the signs of success or failure depended on human affairs. Was it not because the generals blamed each other, coveted glory, failed to rescue one another at critical moments, and issued unclear commands? These were the long-standing weaknesses of the Chinese army.
It is said that the old heavens allowed the fierce Hu people to occupy the imperial throne and attempt to dominate the world! He feigned to appease the people of the Central Plains, calling himself a lonely man, but in reality, the common people were unable to make a living. Everywhere there were sudden illnesses and fires; towns were burned, killed, and looted.
"It is said: Heaven supports the fierce Hu, stealing the imperial image. Immediately pacifying the Xia, establishing the title of lonely. The people are in urgent illness, and the cities are burned and plundered." This praise poem means that the Hu people usurped the throne, ambitious, pretending to appease the people on the surface, but actually harming them through burning, killing, and looting—truly a horrific tragedy!
It is said that when there are signs in the sky, corresponding events will happen on earth. Look at those courtiers favored by the emperor, like stars hanging high in the presence of the emperor. The emperor's favoritism towards close ministers has been a long-standing practice. Since the decline of the Zhou Dynasty, the feudal lords listened only to their trusted advisors. During the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period, those overlords favored their close confidants even more, which was quite common. Emperor Wen of Han favored Deng Tong; despite his wealth and high status, Deng Tong held the lowly position of Langzhong. Emperor Wu of Han favored Han Yan and Huo Qubing, who attained the rank of Shizhong Dasi Ma. In the Wei and Jin periods, these favored courtiers wielded significant power, even if their abilities didn't always match their positions. The Ministry of Personnel primarily managed confidential affairs in the past. Emperor Yuan of Han used Lingpu to handle political affairs, while Emperor Ming of Wei let the supervisor hold great power. Even in the central government, the position of the Ministry of Personnel remained very important. Chen Zhun was transferred back to his original superior for a position, leading Xun Xu to regret his oversight. The "Jin Ling" stipulated that the official position of the chamberlain was the ninth rank, and the position of Tongshi Lang was created in the Jiangzuo region, responsible for managing edicts and decrees. Later, the Langguan became the Shilang, and the chamberlain also came to be known as Tongshi Lang. Emperor Yuan favored Liu Chao from Langye because of his cautious and serious approach to work. During the reign of Emperor Wen of Song, Qiu Dang and Zhou Jiu were both from humble backgrounds. After Emperor Xiaowu, the selection of officials became increasingly diverse, like Bao Zhao from Donghai, who gained fame for his talent. For example, Chao Shangzhi from Lu County felt he shouldn't have been chosen. The emperor issued over twenty edicts for discussion, and Yigong exclaimed, "The emperor really knows people!" During the reign of Emperor Ming of Song, Humu Hao, Ruan Tianfu, and others gained favor solely through flattery.
In the early days of the Qi dynasty, those who had long served the court and those who were close to the emperor were held in high regard. Documents related to criminal cases and the issuance of decrees, as well as any document writing, were all drafted by them. The duties of the Attendant Minister were once again encroached upon. During the Jianwu period, the emperor's decrees rarely went through the Secretariat, but were directly issued by the Chamberlains. There were four Chamberlains in the province, each responsible for a department, with Chief Clerks and Historiographers below them, who were previously held by military officials but were changed to civil officials during the Song dynasty, with no set limit on their numbers. This was all because the emperor's close confidants held great power, with all official documents and archives sent to them, especially confidential documents. Just like the Outer Bureau of the Ministry of Personnel, which oversaw military officials, as well as the Bureau of Armaments and Military Service, these departments often employed commoners who had received the emperor's favor. Now, I write this "Lucky Courtiers" to address the shortcomings of earlier historical records.
Ji Sengzhen was from Jiankang in Danyang. When he was young, he followed General Xie Sihua and his son Xie Huikai in campaigns to the west, and both were recognized and rewarded. Xie Huikai had a bad temper, and Ji Sengzhen was punished for a minor mistake, yet he was still entrusted with important tasks. When Xie Huikai returned from Yizhou to the capital and faced difficulties in his career, Ji Sengzhen became even more respectful and cautious towards him. On his deathbed, Xie Huikai reflected, "Ji Sengzhen will definitely become wealthy and noble in the future, but sadly, I won't live to see it." He entrusted Ji Sengzhen to Liu Bing and Zhou Yu.
Earlier, when Xiao Huikai was stationed in Yizhou, a local rebellion broke out and he was besieged; the situation was dire. A Taoist told him, "The city siege will soon be lifted, and your patrons will thrive, so don't worry about external enemies." Xiao Huikai confided in Ji Sengzhen, "My descendants have no special talents; they can only rely on Daocheng (referring to myself)." Ji Sengzhen remembered Xiao Huikai's words and asked to serve Emperor Taizu (Xiao Daocheng). He accompanied Taizu, who was stationed in Huaiyin, tasked with managing some minor documents and replying to official correspondence from various places. He rose from a lowly official position to become Taizu's champion mansion military officer and registrar gradually.
Once, Ji Sengzhen dreamed that the river was overgrown with mugwort and wormwood, which startled him, so he quickly told the dream to Taizu. Taizu said, "In the poem it says 'the poet picks Xiao'; Xiao refers to wormwood. When wormwood grows, the water flow will be cut off, so don't spread this around." This shows the level of trust Taizu placed in him.
In the early years of the Yuanhui period, Ji Sengzhen followed Taizu, stationed in Xinting, to resist the rebel army in Guiyang. Xiao Huilang broke in from the east gate, and Ji Sengzhen and his men fought back together. After the rebel army retreated, Taizu ordered Ji Sengzhen to lead his personal soldiers to patrol the city. Once the situation had stabilized, Ji Sengzhen was appointed as the Imperial Censor of the Southern Tribunal and Taizu's military officer in charge.
The court was about to depose the emperor, and some individuals plotted, including Yuan Can and Chu Yuan. Ji Sengzhen advised Taizu, "Now the court is in chaos; everyone is too busy to care. The fate of the realm does not rest with Yuan Can and Chu Yuan. How can you remain silent and wait to be destroyed? The key to survival depends on your careful consideration." Taizu accepted his advice.
The founding emperor wanted to cross Guangling and rise up in rebellion. Ji Sengzhen once again advised, "Although Your Majesty has repeatedly made mistakes and harmed the people, the imperial family's foundation for several generations is still as solid as a rock. Now, taking your whole family across the river may not necessarily all make it through. Even if you capture Guangling City, the emperor living in the deep palace will definitely treat you as a rebel. How will you avoid that? If you lose the battle, you can only escape to the territory of the northern Hu people, which I believe is not a foolproof plan." The founding emperor said, "Are you worried about your family? Can't you follow me together?" Ji Sengzhen kowtowed to show that he would never betray. In the first year of Shengming, Ji Sengzhen was appointed as a junior official and also served as the magistrate of Dongwucheng. Shortly afterwards, he was promoted to the position of Geishizhong and a military advisor to Prince Shaoling.
It is said that Zhu Yuanzhang, known as Old Zhu, sat in the high tower of the East Palace, looking at the stone city, with Monk Sengzhen by his side. Old Zhu said, "Those generals all advise me to quickly eliminate Yuan Shu and Liu Yu, but I feel it is not yet the right time." Later, when the incident with Shen You broke out, Sengzhen followed Old Zhu into the imperial palace. That night, the rebellion broke out in the stone city, and Old Zhu sent troops to suppress it. The people in the palace looked at the flames rising from the stone city, the shouts of battle shaking the heavens, and each of them was in a panic. However, Sengzhen told everyone, "This endless shouting of battle must be our official troops attacking! As for the flames, why would the rebels set their own city on fire? This must be the official troops winning the battle!" Before long, the stone city was brought under control.
Lao Zhu set up camp in Xinting, Nanjing, and had Monk Zhen command a thousand men to stand by in their tents. Earlier, when Lao Zhu was in charge of the army, he had Monk Zhen practice his handwriting and sign papers on his behalf. Now, all the official papers needing responses were given to Monk Zhen to deal with. After reading them, Lao Zhu smiled and said, "I can barely recognize my own handwriting these days!" Previously, when Lao Zhu was building the city in Huaiyin, he dug up a large antique tin incense burner, with seal script engraved on the base that nobody could make out. Monk Zhen said, "There's no need to bother identifying these characters; this thing is really old; it's a symbol of the Nine Tins!" Lao Zhu said, "Don't be ridiculous!" Later, Lao Zhu was to be appointed as the Duke of Qi, the date was set, but Yang Zu had other plans to stir up trouble at the emperor's enthronement ceremony. Monk Zhen advised Lao Zhu to choose an auspicious day, and Yang Zu's conspiracy was soon discovered. Lao Zhu said, "I could've handled this even without your heads-up; at most it would have been a little trouble, what's the difference between this and 'calling ice in Hu Dun'?" Later, Monk Zhen was promoted to be the Secretary of Qi State. During the Jianyuan period, Monk Zhen was appointed as the prefect of Dongyan County, titled as the Lord of Xinyang County, with a land grant of three hundred households. Later, he was promoted to the Supervisor of the Imperial Guard, promoted to General Jianwei, and then further promoted to the Chief Guest Officer of the Ministry of War, without any change in his role. Later, he also served as the Secretary. Lao Zhu fell seriously ill and put Monk Zhen in charge of keeping the will safe. In Yongming Year One, Lao Zhu died, and Monk Zhen was appointed as General Jianwei, and soon after, he was promoted to Governor of Nantai Mountain, and later returned to the Secretary, without any change in his role. He was also in charge of managing the affairs of the princes' estates.
Seng Zhen had a scholarly appearance and demeanor. Emperor Shizu once saw him off with a smile, saying, "Why do people always have to worry about their background and status? People like Ji Seng Zhen are unmatched by many high-ranking officials." He was especially favored among the powerful. He was later appointed as the Chief of the Yueqi, and he kept his other official titles. He was then sent as the General of Jianwu, Jiankang Prefect, and upon his return, he served as both the Left and Right Langjiang, Taishan Prefect, and was even promoted to Pioneer Envoy. Shortly after, he was promoted to the General of the Vanguard, but his mother passed away, and when her tomb was opened, they discovered a colorful two-headed snake inside. When Emperor Shizu passed away, Seng Zhen wept profoundly for him. Given Seng Zhen's significant roles under multiple emperors, in the first year of Jianwu, Emperor Ming appointed him as a General of the Guards and as the Minister of Agriculture, keeping his previous rank. Emperor Ming wanted Seng Zhen to govern a certain county, but Seng Zhen recommended his brother, Seng Meng, for the position of Guard General and Jinxi Prefect. In the first year of Yongtai, Seng Zhen was appointed as the Minister of Agriculture. After Emperor Ming's passing, Seng Zhen was responsible for overseeing the affairs of the imperial tombs. Later, he was assigned as the Interior Minister of Luling and passed away at the age of fifty-five.
In the Song Dynasty, there was a Taoist named Yang Fachi, who had known Emperor Taizu previously. During the Yuanhui period, he took part in secret planning activities. During the Shengming period, he was appointed as the Buddhist Abbot. In the early years of Jianyuan, he was dismissed from his Taoist position and appointed as the General of Ningshuo, titled as the Baron of Zhoulingshi County, with a fief consisting of three hundred households. Two years later, when enemy troops surrounded Qushan, the court appointed Fachi as the military commander to lead a rescue mission. In the fourth year of Yongming, he lost his title and fief for withholding rations from the soldiers. He later died.
Liu Xizong was a native of Danyang. He showed great talent in calligraphy and painting since childhood and once served as a court scribe by the side of Jingcui, the son of King Dan of Jingling in the Song Dynasty. When Dan launched an attack on Guangling, the city fell, and its inhabitants perished, but he ordered that Liu Xizong be pardoned, allowing him to continue serving as a scribe in the Eastern Palace. During the reign of Taishi, he served as the chief scribe, steadily advancing to higher ranks due to his hard work. In the early years of Yuanhui, he was appointed as a court official, concurrently serving as a secretary in the Imperial Academy and a junior official. He was ennobled as the Marquis of Nan Ting in Shixing, with a fief comprising 370 households, and also served as the magistrate of Moling.
Legend has it that on the morning Emperor Taizu abolished the official position of Cangwu County, he summoned the upright courtier Yu Zheng. At that time, the Emperor was drunk and unable to get up, so he cheerfully sent Yu Zheng to receive the imperial decree. Emperor Taizu said, "Today is the day when the heavens and earth are reopened, and it is also the time for you, Yu Zheng, to display your talents!" He then sent Yu Zheng to draft edicts distributed throughout the land and handle official documents from all directions. He also assigned him ten chief scribes and twenty clerks to assist him. Yu Zheng handled all matters to the Emperor's satisfaction. Later, the Emperor promoted him to Yulin Supervisor, then further promoted him to Colonel of Infantry. He was later appointed as the General of Longxiang and assigned as the magistrate of Haiyan County.
After Emperor Taizu ascended the throne, he appointed him as the General of Longxiang and the magistrate of Jiankang County. In the first year of Yongming, he was appointed as the General of Ningshuo. Shortly after, he was promoted to the General of the Right Army and the Prefect of Huailing, concurrently serving as a secretary in the Imperial Academy. After the death of his mother, he resigned from his official duties to observe the mourning period, and was later reappointed as the General of Ningshuo, resuming his original position.
In the fourth year of Yongming, the rebel Bai Zei Tang Yu staged a revolt. The court dispatched guards to the east to suppress the rebellion, and the emperor also dispatched Xi Zong to visit and console the affected people in the areas impacted by the rebels. Xi Zong inquired about the common people who had been oppressed by the rebel soldiers, helping them return to their normal lives. After Xi Zong returned, the emperor commended him, saying, "This rebellion was quickly quelled without much fighting, and the people are living in peace and prosperity. It's really great!" He also rewarded him with a substantial amount of money. Later, the emperor wanted to repair the city of Baixia but faced challenges in securing labor. Xi Zong suggested employing the exiled laborers from the east who had followed Tang Yu in his rebellion, and the emperor adopted his suggestion. Subsequently, the emperor personally inspected Baixia City and remarked, "Liu Xi Zong has won this city for the country!"
During the Yongming period, envoys from northern minority ethnic groups sent letters, and the emperor frequently tasked Xi Zong with drafting replies. The Secretariat and the Imperial Academy were under his supervision. Later, he was promoted to the position of Shao Fu, then promoted to Guerrilla General and Prefect of Lu County. After Emperor Yulin ascended the throne, he appointed him as Valiant Cavalry General, as well as Frontier General and Prefect of Xuan City. Xi Zong stayed in the court for a long time, with a relatively light workload. Emperor Ming said, "Those scholars who only know how to read cannot effectively govern the country; they only know how to read. Talented individuals like Liu Xi Zong can accomplish the work of five hundred mere bookworms!" It is evident that the emperor valued him highly. In the second year of Jianwu, Xi Zong passed away at the age of seventy-seven years.
Ru Faliang was from Wukang, Huzhou, Zhejiang. During the Song Dynasty, he started in a minor official position and gradually climbed the ranks. By the later years of Emperor Xiaowu's reign, he was responsible for overseeing wine production. Due to his harsh punishments, he created significant trouble. Later, he was sent to the Jiangyou region for hunting, accompanied by one hundred and eighty plainly dressed followers, all from wealthy and influential families. As they traveled south, more than half of them received lashes. Ru Faliang, feeling very fearful, found an excuse to become a Taoist monk.
When Emperor Song Ming ascended to the throne, he gave up his Taoist identity and formed a relationship with Ruan Dianfu, who appointed him as Meng Ciyang's assistant, the Inspector of Yanzhou. Later on, he was promoted all the way to become a military officer in the Crown Prince's office. In the Yuanhui era, he was appointed as Palace General, and also served as the assistant to Prince Jinxi of Yingzhou, as well as the Imperial Censor of the Palace.
Xiao Daocheng (Emperor Shizu), stationed at Pengcheng, needed people he trusted, and Ru Faliang volunteered to stay behind and serve as his assistant in Shangjiang Prefecture. He was later appointed as the Imperial Censor of the Southern Platform, and also served as the magistrate of Songzi. Ru Faliang was skilled at observing and flattery, gradually gaining Xiao Daocheng's trust. Later, he accompanied Xiao Daocheng back to Shitoucheng (modern-day Nanjing). In the Jianyuan era, he was appointed as the Chief Clerk of the Eastern Palace, then promoted to Imperial Envoy, and further promoted to the Attendant of the Eastern Palace. After Xiao Daocheng became emperor, Ru Faliang continued to serve as the Attendant of the Central Secretariat. He was later promoted to the position of Gentleman of the Imperial Gate, concurrently serving as the Administrator of Nanjiyin. In the first year of the Yongming era, he was appointed as the General of Longxiang.
The following year, the emperor issued a decree stating: "Ru Faliang has been in Pengcheng recently, carrying out orders multiple times, pacifying the army. He is brave and resolute, boosting morale, overcoming numerous difficulties with dedication. He should be rewarded and commended for his achievements." As a result, he was granted the title of Viscount of Wangcai County, with a fief comprising three hundred households. He was further promoted to the position of Censor, concurrently serving as the Supervisor of the Imperial Guards. Seven years later, he was appointed as the Administrator of Linhuai, and later transferred to the position of Military Officer in the residence of Prince Jingling.
Prince of Badong, Xiao Zixiang, killed his subordinate in Jingzhou. The emperor sent troops to march west to suppress him and sent Ru Faliang to deliver an imperial decree to comfort and appease Xiao Zixiang. When Ru Faliang arrived at Jiangjin, Xiao Zixiang asked him to come over, but Ru Faliang was too afraid to go. Xiao Zixiang then sent someone to deliver the decree, inviting him to meet, but Ru Faliang still refused to go. Xiao Zixiang, in a fit of rage, defeated the imperial army. Once the situation settled, Ru Faliang arrived at Jiangling and was in charge of judicial matters, ensuring his judgments aligned with the emperor's wishes. After the troops returned, the emperor regretted having executed Xiao Zixiang and blamed Ru Faliang. Some time later, the emperor trusted him again as before.
After Emperor Yulin ascended to the throne, he appointed Faliang as the infantry colonel. In the first year of Yanxing, Faliang was promoted to the rank of General of the Vanguard. Yanchang Hall was the mausoleum of Emperor Shizu, where many emperors' clothes were stored. The two young emperors resided in the West Hall, and Emperor Gaozong lived in the East Chamber after his ascension. Emperor Gaozong opened the mausoleum and took out the white gauze hat and defensive dagger worn by Emperor Shizu during his lifetime. Faliang cried at that time, overcome with grief. Later, he was appointed as a General of the Flying Cavalry. During the reign of Emperor Gaowu, most of the people from that time had passed away, but Faliang, who primarily handled clerical duties, was not suspected and his official position remained unchanged. In the first year of Yongtai, the situation regarding Wang Jingze had been resolved, and Faliang was again ordered to comfort and appease. Later, the emperor appointed Faliang as the Grand Minister of Agriculture. However, Faliang did not like the lucrative posts within the Ministry of Personnel, so he resolutely declined and refused to accept. By the time others had taken over, Faliang left in tears. Faliang passed away while still in office at the age of sixty-four.
Lu Wenxian was a native of Linhai. He initially served as the Director of Rituals under Emperor Xiaowu of the Song Dynasty. During the Shengming era, he served as the Secretary of the Ministry of Personnel for Emperor Taizu, and gradually rose through the ranks to become the Imperial Attendant, the Supervisor of the Imperial Guards, as well as the Magistrate and Prefect of Lanling County, General of the Dragon's Might, and Prefect of Moling County. He was also titled as the Baron of Liuyang County. In the first year of the Yongming era, he was appointed as the General of Ning Shuo, Attendant of the Central Secretariat, while retaining his previous positions. Wenxian was known for his meticulous and diligent work ethic. Three years later, he was later appointed as the Prefect of Nanqinghe. He and Ru Faliang took turns serving as Attendants, both of whom gained the Emperor's favor. Gifts and money from various regions totaled millions of dollars each year, enabling them to construct large houses, as well as gardens and ponds. Five years later, he became the Prefect of Jiankang, and later was promoted to Chief of Water Patrol, as well as the Prefects of Nantai Mountain and Nanqiao. He then served as a Military Aide in the Ministry of War, Prefect of Huainan, and concurrently as the Attendant of the Central Secretariat. He continued to rise through the ranks, eventually becoming the Left General, Prefect of Nandongguan, and General of the Right Army. During the reign of Emperor Gaozong, he was appointed as the Minister of the Treasury and was often assigned important tasks. From the Jianwu era to the Yongyuan era, he held the positions of Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Personnel and Minister of the Treasury. He ultimately passed away.
Lv Wendu, a native of Shaoxing, Zhejiang, was a minor official responsible for the treasury during the Song Dynasty. He also worked as a craftsman making bamboo products. During the Yuanhui era, he was appointed to oversee hunting wild chickens and traveled to Yingzhou with his superior Mo Xiuzong. When Emperor Song Shizu resisted Shen Youzhi in Pencheng, Lv Wendu stayed behind to handle military affairs and managed various tasks within the army, earning the appreciation of Emperor Song Shizu. After the army returned to the capital, he was appointed as the administrator of Shitoucheng and often visited the Eastern Palace. After Emperor Song Shizu ascended the throne, Lv Wendu was appointed as the supervisor of the Imperial Bureau, holding the rank of Yuanwailang, and also served as the Prefect of Nan Puyang. He wielded significant power over the palace's military and personnel dispatched to other regions. There is a folk legend that when the governor of Yuezhou found himself in need of a replacement, Lv Wendu recommended his acquaintance Fei Yanzong, who was then appointed by the emperor. During the Yongming period, the emperor decreed that close associates were not allowed to recommend others for promotion, exempting officials of high rank, while commoners faced a punishment of one hundred lashes. The emperor was strict, and once, when Lv Wenxian coughed loudly by the hall, the emperor ordered Ru Faliang to scold him for showing disrespect. As a result, everyone in the palace feared the emperor and dared not speak out of turn. Ru Faliang was in charge of managing labor and conveying secret decrees; Lv Wenxian managed food and cloth; the other attendants had no specific responsibilities. The General of the Palace Guard, Pan Chang, was responsible for supervising construction projects. When the newly completed Chanling Temple was inspected by the emperor, he was quite pleased. Pan Chang, overjoyed, secretly invited Lv Wenxian to ascend the tower at the south gate of the temple. When the emperor found out, he imprisoned Pan Chang, and Lv Wenxian was demoted to Nanqiao County, and he was only reinstated after a considerable time.
Jiang Qutan from Jiyang and Shen Huifu from Wuxing, among others, were just ordinary scholars, serving as officials in the palace as attendants or secretaries, without real power. Shen Huifu had some writing skills, and during the Jianwu period, many imperial edicts were drafted by him. He later rose to the rank of Gentleman of the Yellow Gate.
Historical records say that since the middle ages, the prime ministers wielding the power of the realm managed a complex array of political affairs daily, and other departments had no chance to intervene. The eight departments of the Ministry of Rites, along with the five Cao offices, each fulfilling its role, cooperated with the nine ministers and six ministries, and the affairs were handled by the deputy officials. These individuals were all high-ranking officials of prominent status who did not need to personally submit memorials or work hard. They were responsible for conveying the emperor's intentions, and all internal and external information had to pass through them.
Think about it: they served the emperor by his side every day, greeting him in the morning and evening, standing straight next to him, looking around proudly in the palace, reading the emperor's expressions and understanding his preferences. Over time, the emperor trusted them more and more. With their solid positions, they controlled the power of the court. As long as the emperor was young and strong, diligent in political affairs, and fair in rewards and punishments, these prime ministers managed to avoid favoritism and corruption. They could predict the development of events and could also benefit from the emperor's favor inadvertently, with power spreading throughout the country.
Over time, they began accepting bribes, amassing large sums of money annually, their wealth rivaling that of the nobility. They were powerful and influential, with even local officials needing to heed their authority. They also controlled military power, maintaining their own guards within the palace, elite soldiers stationed around the palace. When the emperor went into battle or returned to the court, they were responsible for clearing the way, protecting the emperor's safety, checking people coming and going, managing vehicles and horses, commanding the army, serving directly at the emperor's side, and tasked with ensuring palace security and establishing various rules and regulations.
If conscription or mobilizing labor is needed, they are in charge of organizing personnel and managing various requests, and even arbitrarily altering taxes, forging documents, hunting down rebels, and exiling prisoners. The military can hold onto their positions for generations, while ordinary people rarely live beyond a hundred. They harm the people and endanger the country; they are akin to parasites. Furthermore, when the emperor is either young or inept, they will act with even greater impunity, and their crimes are innumerable!
Praise: Grant titles and nobility, favored and privileged. A burden to those around them, both rich and powerful.
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