Wang Jingze is from Nansha, Wuxi, Jiangsu. His mother was a sorceress, and when she gave birth to him, the placenta was said to be purple. She told others, "This child will definitely be a powerful figure in the future!" When Wang Jingze grew up, he had nipples several inches long under both armpits. He also dreamed of riding a colorful lion. In his twenties, Wang Jingze was particularly skilled in wielding knives and spears, and was appointed as a guard. Emperor Jinghe asked him to perform his knife skills, and he jumped up to wield his sword, reaching the same height as the Emperor's white tiger flagpole, performing flawlessly every time. Later, he was promoted to the leader of the Xia Gu Guard, leading an elite armored unit. In the end, he and Shou Jizhi together took down Emperor Jinghe.
After Emperor Ming ascended to the throne, Wang Jingze was appointed as the General of the Direct Pavilion. Once, Wang Jingze went directly to the palace with a knife to report to the Emperor, and as a result, he was locked up in the Shangfang Bureau for more than ten days before being reinstated as the General of the Direct Pavilion. Later, he was promoted to the General of Fendou, titled as the Marquis of Chong'an County, with a fief of three hundred and fifty households. When Wang Jingze was young, he was hunting in the bushes when he suddenly found himself covered in bugs that looked like black beans. After removing the bugs, he bled from those areas. Wang Jingze felt very frightened, so he sought advice from a Taoist priest, who reassured him, "Don't worry, this is a good omen for your future as a high-ranking official!" Wang Jingze was very happy to hear this, so he eagerly entered public service, and, just as the Taoist had predicted, his career in government flourished.
During the Taishi period, Wang Jingze was appointed as General Longxiang and military commander, following General Ning Shuo Liu Huaizhen to campaign against Shou Chun. General Yin Yan sent General Liu Cong to build four camps in the Dead Tiger area. Liu Huaizhen sent Wang Jingze to lead a thousand men around to the rear of the enemy army, directly breaking out from Hengtang, causing the enemy to flee in all directions. Afterwards, Wang Jingze was appointed as a Court Attendant and then was sent to serve as the magistrate of Ji Yang County. As Wang Jingze was leaving the capital and reached the foot of Mount Lu Zhu, he and more than ten companions set off together on their boats, but his boat alone remained still. He asked his younger brother to get into the water and push the boat, and they discovered a pitch-black coffin. Wang Jingze said, "You are no ordinary object. If this is a good omen, let the boat move faster. If I become prosperous, I will definitely give you a proper burial." After saying that, the boat immediately started moving. After taking office, Wang Jingze gave the coffin a proper burial. Later, there was a severe famine in the county, and some people fled to Zijin Mountain to become bandits, causing trouble for the locals. Wang Jingze sent someone to negotiate with the bandit leader, promising them leniency if they surrendered. There was a temple in the county where the deity was known to be fierce, and the people were very afraid. Wang Jingze swore an oath in the deity's name, assuring he would keep his promise. The bandit leader indeed surrendered, and Wang Jingze held a feast for them in the temple, then took the opportunity to arrest them all, saying, "I have sworn to the deity already. If I break my oath, I will offer ten cows as a sacrifice to the deity. Now I have not broken my oath." He then killed ten cows to sacrifice to the deity and executed all the bandits, which made the locals very happy. Later, Wang Jingze was promoted to a higher official position.
In the year 466 AD, I followed the emperor in defeating the rebel army in Guiyang at Xinting. I, along with Yulin Supervisor Chen Xianda and General Gao Daoqing, fought the rebel army's fleet on the river and decisively defeated them, burning all their ships. After the incident, I was appointed as the Prefect of Nantai Mountain, the Master of the Right Hub, later promoted to the Chief Cavalry Officer of Yue, and finally became the Chariot and Cavalry Officer to Prince Ancheng.
King Cangwu was excessively arrogant, leaving those around him feeling insecure. Because of the emperor's reputation, King Cangwu surrendered and began to flatter the emperor. Every time my shift ended, I would go to the emperor's palace. At night, wearing green robes, I would lie on the ground, waiting by the road to report news from King Cangwu to the emperor. The emperor told me to wait for an opportunity in the palace without specifying when. Later, when Yang Yufu and others were in danger, I was at home, and Yang Yufu sent King Cangwu's head to me. I hurried to the palace to find the emperor. The emperor feared it might be a trap set by King Cangwu and refused to open the door. I called out loudly from outside the door, "It's me, Jingze!" The door still didn't open. In desperation, I had to toss the head over the wall. The emperor ordered someone to bring water to wash it before examining it. After seeing it, he immediately put on his armor and came out. I followed the emperor into the palace, and when we reached the Chengming Gate, the gatekeeper suspected that it wasn't someone from King Cangwu's side. Worried about being seen, I used a sword hilt to block the small hole in the door and shouted desperately for someone to open it. The Deputy Commander Yan Lingbao saw the emperor riding outside and secretly told his family, "If we don't let the internal army in now, the world will be in chaos!" The door opened, and I followed the emperor into the main hall. The next morning, the ministers discussed together, and I drew my sword and began pacing around the bed, loudly saying, "Let's handle it as we see fit—who dares to oppose us?!"
In the year 461 AD, he was promoted to the positions of Cavalry Commandant and Palace Attendant, General for the Assistance of the State, and General of Agile Cavalry, while also serving as the Governor of Linhuai. His fief increased further to 1,300 households, and he was responsible for managing the palace guards. Later, during Shen You's rebellion, he was granted the title of Champion General for his achievements. When Emperor Taizu wanted to take control of court affairs, Yuan Can incited a rebellion. At that time, military leaders Liu Yun and Bu Boxing, among others, were in the palace preparing to support Yuan Can, with martial law in effect. He quickly opened the palace gates and launched a sudden attack, killing all these individuals. Those who were secretly plotting rebellion in the palace were all suppressed, which was due to his efforts. Subsequently, he was promoted to General of the Right Guard, while retaining his position as Cavalry Commandant and Palace Attendant. His fief continued to increase, first to 2,500 households, and later by another five hundred households. He and his son Yuan Qian were rewarded with titles, with his son being granted the title of Marquis of Dongxiang with a fiefdom of 370 households. After the completion of the Qitai platform, he served as the Commander of the Central Army. When Emperor Taizu was about to abdicate, officials in charge of palace renovations suggested replacing the pillars of the Taiji Hall. The emperor wished to avoid any construction work and was reluctant to leave the palace to abdicate. The following day, as the enthronement ceremony approached, the emperor again concealed himself within the palace. He quickly brought the imperial carriage into the palace to greet the emperor and urge him to emerge. The emperor patted his hand and said, "Do not be concerned; I will reward you with one hundred thousand coins shortly." In the year 494 AD, Xie Mao was appointed as the Imperial Commissioner, Palace Attendant and Cavalry Commandant, Commander of Military Affairs in Nan, Yanzhou, Xuzhou, Qingzhou, and Jizhou, General Pacifying the North, and Governor of Nanyanzhou, and was also granted the title of Duke of Xunyang County with a fiefdom of 3,000 households. His wife, Lady Huai of Xunyang, was also granted the title of Lady of Xunyang County.
In the second year, Xie Mo was promoted to General of Anbei. At that time, the area around the Huai River and the Si River was frequently attacked by northern minority tribes. Xie Mo was frightened and abandoned his post, returning to the capital. The common people panicked and fled in all directions. The emperor, remembering his contributions, did not hold him accountable, but instead appointed him as Minister of State and General of the Comforting Army. Not long after, he was appointed as Imperial Commissioner, Cavalry Attendant, General of the East, and Prefect of Wuxing.
Previously, Wuxing County was plagued by robberies and thefts, with even children as young as ten stealing on the streets. Xie Mo set an example by punishing a thief, which deterred others from picking up lost items on the streets, and there were no more robbery incidents in the county. He later caught another thief, publicly whipping him in front of his relatives, and assigning him the task of cleaning the streets. Eventually, he sent this thief to catch other thieves, instilling fear in them and significantly improving public security in Wuxing County.
One day, while passing through the market, Xie Mo came across a meat rack and commented, "Wuxing did not have such meat racks before; I made this when I was young." Later, Xie Mo was promoted to General of the Guard, while continuing as Cavalier Attendant, and turned his own residence into a mansion.
In 496 AD, Xie Mo resigned from his official position to reinter his mother. The court posthumously granted the title of Lady of Xunyang Duchy to Xie Mo's mother. Subsequently, Xie Mo was appointed as Palace Attendant and General of the Comforting Army. The Emperor left a decree for Xie Mo to also serve as Governor of Danyang. Shortly after, he was appointed as Imperial Commissioner, Cavalry Attendant, Commander of Kuaiji, Dongyang, Xin'an, Linhai, and Yongjia, General of the East, and Prefect of Kuaiji. In 498 AD, the court bestowed upon him a musical ensemble.
Kuaiji County is situated on the frontier, near lakes and the sea. The people, regardless of their social status, are all required to work on dike construction. Xie Mo believed that the labor burden on the people was excessively heavy, so he converted the surplus labor into monetary compensation and submitted it to the national treasury, which was approved by the court. At this point, Prince Liang of Jingling submitted a memorial:
I have looked into the conditions in the Wu and Guanzhong regions and found that the people are living in extremely difficult circumstances. Everyone is struggling, especially the silkworm farmers who are facing hunger and the cold. Money is scarce and expensive now, while goods are cheap. Almost everything is like this. The harvests are poor, with a dou of grain costing several dozen wen, and it is very difficult to weave cloth, with a bolt of cloth selling for only three hundred wen.
Why is this happening? The reason is that the annual taxes collected on time are based on current prices. Many coins in the east have been clipped and are rarely intact. The coins collected by the government must be intact. Trading has become exceedingly difficult for the people, who also endure beatings and imprisonment, worsening their plight. Having served as an official in Kuaiji, I am well-acquainted with the local situation. The money collected by the pond workers was not originally handed over to the government. Since the ponds required repairs and the roads and bridges needed construction, everyone would discuss and agree on the costs, resolving the issues among themselves. If a facility in one area was damaged, it would be repaired once a year; if a facility in another area was intact, it would not need repair for a year. Now the county submits all this money to the court, in addition to the rents and taxes, resulting in the neglect of roads and ponds, harming the people and undermining governance; the situation has become very serious.
In the early years of the Jianyuan era, nomadic tribes from the north invaded, military expenses were high, and in the five eastern counties of Zhejiang, the poll tax reached as high as one thousand. People were even selling their wives and children just to pay the tax. The roads were filled with people wearing worried expressions, creating a scene that was heartbreaking to witness. There were still many tax debts, and the collection efforts were unsuccessful. I wrote to the court asking for a pardon on the tax debts. But this year, one-third of the rent and taxes remain unpaid. I know that this will only disturb the people and actually harm the interests of the country. I believe the tax system for Tang Ding should revert to its previous form, and tax debts should be reduced as appropriate. Any taxes owed, regardless of the amount, should be allowed to be paid in cloth locally. If the people have other materials needed by the military, they can be accepted at market prices, without needing to pay in cash. This way, there will be no loss to the country, and it will benefit the people.
In the early years of the Jin Dynasty's southward migration, the Jiangzuo region was just established, and the price of silk was ten times what it is now. The amount of taxes was based on the fluctuation of prices at that time. During the Yongchu era, the government collected one piece of cloth valued at one thousand coins, while private transactions were priced at nine hundred coins. By the Yuanjia era, prices had dropped, and private transactions valued a piece of cloth at six thousand coins, while the government calculated it at five hundred coins. So, whenever they aimed to treat the people fairly, they would lower taxes. Nowadays, the quality cloth collected by the government is valued at over one hundred coins each, but the people still pay according to the old standards. Previously, taxes were collected at lower prices, and now they are still collected at lower prices. The people remain in poverty. Isn’t this the reason why? The best way to help the people and solve the problem is to reduce taxes. Even when the weather is good, the people are still struggling. What will happen if there are droughts or floods?
Furthermore, the strength of the Western Capital depends on the Sanfu region, while the stability of the Eastern Capital relies on the Sanhe region. This has been true throughout history. Outside of Shitoucheng, there is enough to meet the needs of the prefectures and counties, and east of Fangshan is where the foundation of the court lies. These are the pillars of the nation and must be tended to. A more lenient policy should be adopted, offering some preferential treatment to the common people. By temporarily sacrificing immediate small gains in favor of long-term larger benefits, there will be no need to worry about the people being poor and the nation being impoverished. The court ministers all believe this is beneficial for the nation, but I still find it inappropriate, despite my ignorance. The memorial above was not approved.
Three years later, he was promoted to General of Eastern Campaigns. Lu Shi, the concubine of Wang Yi, the governor of Guangzhou in Songzhou province, was cruel and violent, often beating her maids to death. Wang Yi's son, Faming, reported this to Jingle, who imprisoned Lu Shi in Shanyin Prison and ordered her execution. Lu Shi's family appealed, and the matter was escalated to higher authorities, resulting in the death sentence for County Magistrate Liu Dai. After Jingle went to court, the emperor asked him, "Taking a life is a grave matter, who ordered the execution? Why didn't you report it first?" Jingle replied, "I acted on my own accord. I am not familiar with the specific laws, but I felt this was a matter deserving of death, so I acted accordingly." Liu Dai also confessed, and the emperor granted him a pardon. Jingle was dismissed from his post and reassigned as a prefectural official.
In the second year, he was promoted to the position of Palace Attendant and General of the Central Army. Not long after, he and Wang Jian were both granted the title of "Imperial Counselor" at the same time. Wang Jian firmly declined, and Jing Ze also did not immediately accept. Seven years later, he was appointed as the Commissioner, Cavalier Attendant, and Commander of military affairs in the two counties of Xiyang and Runan in Yuzhou and Yingzhou, General of the Western Expedition, and Governor of Yuzhou, while retaining the same privileges as the Three Excellencies. He was then promoted to General of the Flying Cavalry. Eleven years later, he was promoted to Minister of Works, with the position of Cavalier Attendant unchanged. After Emperor Wu's death, he was posthumously appointed as Palace Attendant per the emperor's will. When Emperor Gaozong was in power, he secretly planned to replace the emperor. In the first year of Longchang, Jing Ze was sent to serve as the Commissioner, Commander of military affairs in the five counties of Kuaiji, Dongyang, Linhai, Yongjia, and Xin'an, and Prefect of Kuaiji, with his original position unchanged. After Prince Hailing ascended to the throne, Jing Ze was promoted to Grand Commandant.
Although Jing Ze held a high position, he did not consider himself wealthy or noble, always being cautious and diligent, rarely sitting comfortably. He spoke to the common people in the local Wu dialect but was very warm and attentive. When he first served as Cavalier Attendant, he planted willow trees in the northern hall. Later, when the Imperial Clerk Yu Changyao returned from a mission to the north, Jing Ze asked him, "How are the willow trees I planted before doing now?" Yu Changyao replied, "People in the north cherish it like a sweet osmanthus tree." Jing Ze smiled and did not say anything. The term "sweet osmanthus" comes from the Book of Songs. When Emperor Wu composed poetry on the throne, Jing Ze held paper and pen and said, "I nearly became one of those uncultured types." Emperor Wu asked, "What do you mean?" Jing Ze said, "If I could read, I would at most be a clerk in the Ministry of Works; how could I have the position I have today?" Although Jing Ze was not very literate, he was very clever and astute. When he served in the local government, he had his subordinates read the memorials to him, and he would make judgments without error.
When Emperor Ming ascended the throne, he promoted Jingze to be the Grand Marshal and also granted him 1,000 households of land. On the day when the court sent someone to confer an official position on him, it was pouring rain, and all the civil and military officials were frightened, their faces pale. At that moment, a guest nearby remarked, "You have always been like this. When you were appointed in Danyang and Wuxing before, it was also like this." Jingze was very happy to hear this and said, "It seems I'm destined to encounter rain." So he still arranged the ceremonial team, dressed in court attire, and came out in the rain to the place of appointment to accept the position. He still felt uneasy, sticking out his tongue for a while before finally accepting the appointment.
The emperor had executed many people, and Jingze felt that he was an old minister of Gaozu and Wudi, feeling a mix of fear and anxiety. The emperor was very polite to him on the surface, but he doubted him in his heart, often sending people to ask Jingze if he was eating well, if he was in good health, and if he was comfortable in his residence. Since he was old and lived inland, he was temporarily granted a reprieve. Three years later, the emperor sent Xiao Tanzhi with a team of five hundred people to offer sacrifices at the tomb of Wudi. Jingze's sons were all in the capital, terrified and unsure of what to do. When the emperor learned of this, he sent Jingze's son Zhongxiong to the east to comfort them. Zhongxiong was skilled in playing the qin, one of the finest at that time. In Jiangzuo, there was a Jiaowei Qin by Cai Yong, kept in the imperial wardrobe, and the emperor ordered it to be lent to Zhongxiong for five days. Zhongxiong played the qin in front of the emperor, performing "Aonong Song" and singing, "Always complaining that you are heartless, now you are really leaving!" The emperor grew increasingly suspicious and guilt-ridden.
In the first year of Yongtai, the emperor fell gravely ill, nearly succumbing several times. The emperor appointed Zhang Gui as the General of Pingdong and the Prefect of Wu County, provided him with soldiers, and kept a close watch on Xiao Jingze. Rumors circulated that Xiao Jingze was in for trouble.
Xiao Jingze heard these rumors and thought to himself, "Who else is there in the east now? The emperor clearly wants to take me down!" His sons were all terrified. His fifth son, Xiao Yuolong, quickly sent the senior general Xu Yue to secretly inform the official in Xuzhou, Xie Tiao, of the situation and asked him to come up with a solution. If the situation was true, he was to inform Xiao Jingze immediately. Xie Tiao immediately rushed to the capital with Xu Yue and delivered the urgent message to Xiao Jingze. Xiao Jingze's local official, Xu Shu, who lived in Jingkou, also received the news from his son and passed it on to Xiao Jingze's trusted relative, Lin. Lin advised Xiao Jingze to send a letter to his son immediately, urging him to make a run for it by taking a small boat back to the capital overnight. Xiao Jingze had Sima Zhang Sizu write a memorial, but he said, "This way, all my sons are in the capital; there will definitely be news coming back. Let's hold off and wait for one night."
That night, Xiao Jingze called all his civil and military officials to play a game of chance and asked everyone, "What should I do?" No one dared to answer first. Ding Xinghuai, who was in charge of guarding the palace gate, said, "Sir, just do what you think is best." Xiao Jingze remained silent. The next morning, Xiao Jingze summoned the magistrate of Shanyin County, Wang Xun, and the imperial censor Zhong Lizu to ask, sitting with his sword across his lap and his legs crossed, "How many laborers can be recruited? How much money is left in the warehouse?" Wang Xun replied, "The laborers in the county are not enough." Zhong Lizu said, "The goods in the warehouse aren't fully accounted for yet." Xiao Jingze became furious and was ready to execute both of them. Wang Lin advised Xiao Jingze again, saying, "You can regret a lot of things, but not this! Please reconsider!" Xiao Jingze spat right in his face, saying, "Kid! I don't need you to worry about my affairs!" And just like that, Xiao Jingze rebelled.
The emperor issued an edict, saying: "I know all about the matters reported by Xie Mao and the Governor of Xuzhou, Yue Song. Wang Jingze is a man who is cruel and cunning by nature and should have faced punishment long ago. It's just that during the turbulent times at the end of the Song Dynasty, he possessed certain abilities, so his official position continued to rise. When our dynasty was newly established, he participated in some discussions, even though his contributions were minimal; the emperor appreciated him and granted him a high rank and office. He wore luxurious official robes, adorned with beautiful jade accessories; he should have taken heed of the satirical poems in the Book of Songs, but those high-ranking officials turned a blind eye to his actions. However, a valley is easy to fill, and a fierce bird like an owl is hard to change. He is filled with suspicion and slanders others. In the Yongming era, his suspicious behavior had already been noted, and now in the Longchang era, his ambition has hardened like ice. He pretended to be loyal to me, but I have always been aware of his true nature. Later, he appeared loyal, even sending gifts, but he escalated his treachery, began to recruit fugitives, formed factions, observed the border situation, and spied on the court's movements. His sons, Wang Yuanqian and Wang Yuansou, colluded with these treacherous figures, plotting rebellion. Xie Mao and Wang Jingze are relatives, and Yue Song is his fellow townsman; their report against him was not motivated by personal gain but based on undeniable facts. We have yet to hear of the good reputations of Fang Xiaoru and Shao Bao, but the rebellions of Han Xin and Peng Yue have already raised alarms. If we tolerate such people, what good is the law? Therefore, he must be arrested immediately to uphold the law of the land. Only he and his two sons are sentenced to death; all others involved must be dealt with."
Therefore, the court ordered the arrest of Wang Jingze's sons: Yuanwailang Shixiong, Jishicunjun Jize, Taizi Xima Yulong, and Taizi Sheren Shao'an, and had them executed in their homes. Wang Jingze's eldest son, Wang Yuanqian, originally a Huangmen Lang, was appointed as the General of Ning Shuo, leading a thousand men in battle in Xuzhou. The court also ordered Xu Xuanqing, the Governor of Xuzhou, to execute him.
Wang Jingze gathered his troops, planning to rebel in two or three days, intending to abduct the former Prime Minister He Yin and reinstate him. His Chief of Staff Wang Nongzhang and Sima Zhang Sizu urged him not to go through with it. Later, he led over ten thousand soldiers through Zhejiang and told Zhang Sizu, "We should draft a proclamation." Zhang Sizu replied, "Why write that now that you're heading back to the court?" Wang Jingze decided against it. The court sent more than three thousand troops, including General Zuo Xingsheng, the Fuguo General, Houjun General Zhige General Cuigongzu, Fuguo General Liushanyang, Longxiang General Zhige General Majunzhu Hu Song, to fortify and defend Qu'a Changgang, and appointed Shen Wenji, the Right Chief Scribe, as the Commander-in-Chief, stationed at Hutou to guard against the Jingkou direction.
Legend has it that General Jing Ze led a rebellion, and over a hundred thousand common folks followed him, armed with hoes and carrying poles. When they reached Jinling, the people of Nansha, under Fan Xiuhua's command, killed the grandson of the county magistrate Gong Shangyan in support of him. Jing Ze arrived at the entrance of Wujin, crying his heart out, and rushed forward in a sedan chair. He fought desperately when he came across the strongholds of Xingsheng and Shanyang. The men from Xingsheng shouted at Jing Ze from a distance, "All your sons are dead, why do you persist?" The official army couldn't hold their ground and tried to retreat, but they were surrounded and could only fight to the death. Hu Song led a cavalry attack from behind, and the unarmed common folks panicked and fled. Jing Ze tried to find a horse to charge again, but he had no chance. Yuan Wenkuang of the Xingsheng army killed him and cut off his head as a demonstration. Meanwhile, the emperor was gravely ill, and Jing Ze suddenly rebelled in the east, striking fear into the court. Dong Hunhou was in the Eastern Palace, pondering the rebellion, and sent someone to the rooftop to look out. When they spotted the fire at Zhenlu Pavilion, they thought Jing Ze had arrived and quickly packed their things and bolted. When someone reported Jing Ze's situation, he said, "As the saying goes in the Thirty-Six Stratagems, retreating is the best tactic. You and your son should run away quickly!" Jing Ze's rebellion was impressive in scale at the outset, but it failed within a few days. He was already in his seventies at that time. Later on, Feng Xingsheng was made the Lord of Xiwu County, Cui Gongzu as the Lord of Xing County, Liu Shanyang as the Lord of Xiangyin County, and Hu Song as the Lord of Shayang County. Each was awarded four hundred households of land as a reward for putting down Jing Ze's rebellion. Gong Shangyan's grandson was posthumously honored as the Captain of Shooting Sounds.
Chen Xianda is from Nanpengcheng. During the reign of Emperor Xiaowu of the Song Dynasty, he was the vanguard commander under General Zhang Yong. During the Jinghe era, he was promoted for his hard work and significant contributions. In the early Taishi years, he followed the governor of Xuzhou, Liu Huaizhen, as a military commander during the northern expedition. He later rose through the ranks to become a military advisor and staff member to Prince Donghai, Xiao Baojuan. In the fourth year of the Taishi era, he was appointed as the Marquis of Pengze County, with a fief that included three hundred households. Afterwards, he served as the governor of Matou County, Yiyang County, the director of the Imperial Guard, and the governor of Puyang.
Legend has it that Emperor Taizu led his troops to confront the rebels in Guiyang and fought a major battle against Liu Jian at Xinting Fort. Consequently, Liu Jian suffered a crushing defeat, and the rebels rushed into Du Mao's house. After Liu Xiufan died, Taizu wanted to return to the Imperial Palace, but someone advised him, saying that "Although the rebels in Guiyang have died, there are still many of their accomplices, and people's hearts are unpredictable. We shouldn't act impulsively!" Taizu listened and temporarily stopped his plan to return to the city.
He then sent Xianda along with Gao Jingzu, the Deputy Minister of Works, to cross the Huai River from Chaford Crossing, along the road north of Shitoucheng, and set up camp in the East Hall. The palace staff were quite frightened, and things only calmed down a bit once Xianda arrived. Xianda emerged from Du Mao's house and engaged the rebels in a fierce battle, defeating them. During the fight, an arrow hit Xianda in the left eye, and when he tried to pull it out, the arrowhead wouldn't budge. At this time, there was an elderly woman named Pan Yu in Dihuang Village who was skilled in treating arrow wounds. She first nailed the arrow shaft in place, then walked in a Yu step while chanting incantations, and with a twist of luck, the nail quickly pushed the arrowhead out, and the old lady thus removed the arrowhead from Xianda's eye.
Due to his military achievements, Xianda was appointed Marquis of Fengcheng County, with a fief that included one thousand households, and was later promoted to Guerrilla General. Shortly after, he was appointed as the Commissioner, responsible for military affairs in Guangxi, Yue, and Sanzhou, as well as Assistant General, General of the Pacification of Yue, Governor of Guangzhou, and was also honored with the title of Champion.
Later, Shen Youzhi rebelled, and Xian Da dispatched troops to aid Taizhou. His Chief of Staff, Du He, and Sima Zhuge Dao advised him, "Shen Youzhi's troops are strong and well-equipped, boasting a million soldiers. The outcome is uncertain. It is better to first secure the territory, build up strength, send messengers, and maintain contact with the court." Xian Da promptly had both of them executed and then submitted a memorial to Emperor Taizu, affirming his loyalty. Because of this action, Xian Da was promoted to Governor with the title of Left General.
When the army arrived at Baqiu, Shen Youzhi had already been subdued. Xian Da was appointed as Cavalier Attendant and Left Guard General, later promoted to Former General and Left Marshal of Taizu. After the establishment of the Qi and Tai states, he served as Cavalier Attendant and Left Guard General, also overseeing the Guard Commandant role. After Emperor Taizu ascended the throne, Xian Da was promoted to Central Protector-General, with his fief expanded to sixteen hundred households, and later promoted to Protector-General. Xian Da submitted a request to resign, and the Emperor replied, "The court has regulations regarding the granting of titles. You have come from afar to serve the court faithfully, keeping your promises. Even if you have achievements as significant as conquering cities and nations, they cannot compare to your merits. If I do not reward you, what meaning do the court's regulations hold? If you insist on declining, I will not easily bestow official positions on others. You and the several generals at my side are like brothers to me, not just in a lord and subject relationship. In a few days, I will summon you together with Wang and Li."
After the Emperor ascended the throne, the palace no longer served meat from living creatures, and Xian Da presented a plate of bear meat, which the Emperor used as a substitute for his meals.
In the year 483 AD, enemies from the north invaded Shouyang, causing panic among the people of Huainan and those north of the Yangtze River. The Emperor sent Xiao Xianda to guard the area, with the titles of Governor, Cavalier Attendant, Commander of Military Affairs in the five provinces of Nan, Yanzhou, Xu, Qing, and Ji, General of the North, and Governor of Nanyan Province. Upon his arrival, the enemy forces quickly retreated.
The emperor specifically issued a decree to Xiao Xianda, saying: "The enemy has now been scattered and is unlikely to invade again. However, the country's border defense still requires bolstering. In the years following the twenty-seventh year of the Song Yuanjia era, Wang Jiangxia stationed in Nanyanzhou, later moving to Xuyi, and Shen Sikuang also guarded there in the early years of Xiaojian. At that time, everyone thought that the upper reaches of the Huai River were more important than Guangling. What do you think of the previous dynasty's strategy in this region? Now everyone generally believes that you should be stationed there, but I have not decided yet. This means that civil and military officials will have to put in a lot of effort. If this is a good idea, don't be afraid of trouble." In the end, this suggestion was not adopted.
Later, Xiao Xianda was transferred to the military commander of Yining and Ningzhou, the General of Anxi, the governor of Yizhou, concurrently serving as the prefect of Songning, with his official titles of imperial envoy and attendant unchanged. After Emperor Wu of Qi ascended the throne, he further promoted his official position to General of Zhenxi. Yizhou's terrain is rugged, and many ethnic minorities are resistant to authority. The Liao people in Dado Village, the previous governor was unable to manage them, so Xiao Xianda sent people to urge them to pay taxes. The leader of the Liao people arrogantly said, "Even a governor with two eyes dares not control me!" Then he killed the envoy. Xiao Xianda deployed military commanders, claiming to go hunting, and quietly attacked the Liao people's villages at night, killing all men, women, and children. From that point on, the mountain ethnic minorities were intimidated and refrained from causing trouble. Later, the bandit Sima Longju in Guanghan rebelled and occupied the county town, but Xiao Xianda subdued him.
In the year 486 AD, Xiao Xianda was summoned back to the court and appointed as the Attendant and General of Guard. Xiao Xianda had been serving outside for a long time, experiencing the death of Emperor Taizu. When he finally saw Emperor Sizong, he wept openly, and the emperor joined him in tears, deeply moved and full of admiration for him.
Five years ago, a man named Huan Tiansheng claimed to be a relative of Huan Xuan. He united the local tribes and Hu people near Yongzhou and Sizhou to rebel and seize control of the old city of Nanyang. The emperor dispatched Xian Da as an envoy, instructing him to lead the Water Army, commanded by General Dai Sengjing, to Wancheng and Yexian. The troops from Yongzhou and Sizhou were all under Xian Da's command. Huan Tiansheng led over ten thousand local tribesmen to assault Wuyin. Yin Gongmin, the defending general of Wuyin, killed Huan Tiansheng's deputy, Zhang Qilin. Huan Tiansheng sustained injuries and fled. The emperor appointed Xian Da as the governor, cavalier attendant, and commander of the military forces of Yong, Liang, North and South Qin, Ying, and Jingling Sizhou, and the general who pacifies the north, allowing him to concurrently serve as the Colonel of Ningman and the governor of Yongzhou. Xian Da's forces captured Wuyang City and sent Dai Sengjing and his vanguard troops to launch an attack, engaging in another battle against Huan Tiansheng and his forces, achieving a decisive victory before withdrawing. Several months later, Huan Tiansheng launched another attack on Wuyin, but was once again defeated by Yin Gongmin. Huan Tiansheng retreated to the wilderness, and the bandits in the city, as well as those in Pingshi and Baitu, gradually surrendered.
Eight years later, Xianda was promoted to be the General of the Northern Campaign. In the same year, he was further promoted to be the Court Attendant, General of the Garrison, and soon after was appointed as the Chief General. Later, he was appointed as the Commissioner, Cavalier In Regular Attendance, Commander of the Military Affairs of Jiangzhou, Grand General of the Southern Expedition, Governor of Jiangzhou, and was also given a ceremonial escort. Xianda was modest and generous, and very strategic. He felt his position was too elevated and grew increasingly anxious with each promotion. He had over a dozen sons and often warned them, "I never aimed for such high status, so do not oppress others because of wealth and power!" His family was quite affluent, and his sons, like Wang Jingze's sons, loved fancy carriages and lavish clothes. At that time, notable oxen such as Chen Shizi's green ox, Wang Sanlang's black ox, Lv Wenxian's horned ox, and Jiang Qutan's white-nosed ox were well-known. Xianda would tell his sons, "The feather fan is something only the Wang and Xie families have; you don't need to show off with it."
In November, the northern tribes launched another invasion, and the court ordered troops to be stationed in Fancheng. Before Emperor Shizu passed away, he left a decree for Xianda to continue holding the position of Palace Guard General. In the first year of Longchang, he was promoted to be the Court Attendant, General of Chariots and Cavalry, while retaining his position as General of the Guards. His previous achievements at Yulin were put on hold, but in the first year of Yanxing, he was appointed as the Minister of Works, with the noble title of Duke, an increase of one thousand households in his fief, and fifty more soldiers for palace guard duty. After Emperor Gaozong ascended the throne, he was further promoted to Grand Commandant, retaining his position as Court Attendant, with the title changed to Duke of Poyang County, three thousand households, two hundred soldiers for palace guard duty, and received opulent horses and carriages. In the second year of Jianwu, the northern tribes attacked Xuzhou and Sizhou, and the court ordered Xianda to station troops in Xinting and Bainxia to demonstrate military might.
The emperor wanted to eliminate the grandsons of the Founding Emperor and the Martial Emperor, so he tentatively sought Xian Da's opinion. Xian Da replied, "These people are hardly worth worrying about." The emperor then abandoned the idea. Xian Da was uneasy during the Jianwu period, deliberately maintaining a low profile. His carriage and horses were in a sorry state, and his entourage was modest, consisting of just a dozen people. Once at a palace banquet, he spoke to the emperor after a few drinks, saying, "I am old, and I have had my fill of glory and wealth. I only wish to die peacefully. I humbly request this of Your Majesty." The emperor's expression changed drastically, exclaiming, "You're drunk!" He then used his old age and frailty as an excuse to dismiss him, without granting his request.
At that time, the northern minority ethnic groups were frequently raiding Yongzhou, and the imperial army faced repeated defeats, losing five counties north of the Mian River. In the first year of Yongtai, the court sent Xian Da to the north to conquer. The imperial edict was written as follows: "The national strength of the Jin Dynasty is declining, the virtues of the Song Dynasty are fading, the border vassals are rebelling one after another, and the country is burdened with internal strife. Heaven has yet to show mercy for this disaster. The northern ethnic groups wear left-lapel clothing, disturb the Central Plains, and set up camp and fortify their positions across Shenzhou, disrupting the natural order. I have inherited the legacy of my ancestors, inherited the achievements of the previous emperors, observed the changes in the current situation, and pondered how to govern the world. However, the difficulties are great now, and the grace has only just begun to be extended. Disturbing the people with military forces is not the primary task of governing the country, so the northern expedition strategy is put on hold, hoping the Rongdi will recognize our goodwill. However, those vicious and cunning marauders only want to invade and plunder, inciting other tribes, swarming like ants towards the west. We should capitalize on the opportunity they've presented, seizing the moment when heaven wants to destroy them, send troops quickly, without wasting the people's money, pacify the land of Sanqin by issuing proclamations, and swiftly recover the ancient land of King Yu. This is entirely possible! Moreover, the people of the Central Plains have long awaited the emperor's majesty, pleading for the court to send troops for their rescue, and they all eagerly await to act together with the imperial army. Opportunities are fleeting; time won't wait for anyone. Generals must be appointed, and orders to engage should be issued. The attendant Taiwei Xian Da can set aside court duties for now and command the generals." Both the court and the people were on high alert. The emperor further appointed Xian Da as the plenipotentiary and sent him to Xiangyang.
In the year 78 AD, Xianda (Cui Huijing) led a 40,000-strong army to besiege the city of Nanshang Sekimachi, located 300 miles from Xiangyang, and fought for forty days. The defenders in the city ran out of food and resorted to eating human flesh and tree bark. The siege from outside was intense, and the enemy broke through the siege and fled, while the imperial army captured over a thousand soldiers. However, the soldiers prioritized looting silk from the city instead of pursuing the fleeing enemy. Xianda occupied the city and sent General Zhuang Qiuhei to attack Nanxiang County, the former capital of Shunyang County. Unexpectedly, the enemy leader Yuan Hong launched a sudden attack with over 100,000 cavalry. Xianda quickly led his troops across the river, built defenses at Yingzi Mountain, but the morale of his troops was low. The enemy's attack was fierce, and General Cui Gongzu and Hu Song lifted Xianda using a black cloth, with a few others helping to carry him, taking a shortcut through Fenqi Mountain and crossing the Junsui River to make their escape. The officials and soldiers fled along the road, resulting in the deaths of over 30,000. General Zhang Qian was killed in battle and was posthumously promoted to Guerrilla General.
Xian Da was once renowned among the barbarians and enemy troops, but this time he suffered heavy losses. Deputy Imperial Censor Fan Xiu submitted a memorial requesting Xian Da's removal from office. After discussion in the court, the Emperor responded, "In the past, Wei Qing and Huo Qubing often embarked on expeditions to the frontier without notable achievements, and Feng Yi and Deng Yu also suffered losses when entering the passes. Furthermore, Xian Da's strategies and plans are meticulous, and the court has high expectations of him. He is able to discern the situation, understand the difficulties, and his reputation and strategies have not been damaged. He is currently making significant contributions to the nation by securing the border areas. Even if there are precedents for enforcement, this is not the time to discuss it." Xian Da submitted a memorial requesting to resign, but it was denied; he then requested to be demoted, but that was also denied. Finally, the court appointed Xian Da as both the Military Commander and Governor of Jiangzhou, stationed in Pancheng, with his official position and duties as a military governor unchanged. When Wang Jingze rebelled, Prince Yaoke reported to Emperor Ming that Xian Da might defect and wanted to recall his army. Later, the rebellion was quelled, and the matter was dropped. Xian Da had been on edge ever since. After Dong Hunhou ascended the throne, Xian Da was even more disinclined to return to the capital. He was quite pleased with this appointment. Shortly after, he was also appointed as the General Who Conquers the South and was given three elaborately decorated chariots.
Xian Da learned of the large-scale slaughter in the capital, the news that Xu Xiaosi and others were all killed, and the court's intention to send troops to attack Jiangzhou. Fearing for his safety, Xian Da rebelled on the fifteenth of November. He ordered his Chief Clerk Yu Hongyuan and Marshal Xu Hulong to write to the court ministers:
Everyone: Our founding emperor, Emperor Taizu, was truly wise and formidable, a veritable sage! During the chaos at the end of the Song Dynasty, he responded to the will of the people and established this great nation. His son, Emperor Shizu, also inherited this legacy, quelling rebellions and bringing peace to the realm. Emperor Ming, with his wisdom and martial prowess, further revitalized the empire. However, when it came to the later emperors, alas, he neglected his duties and immersed himself in indulgence, leading to chaos in the palace and the palace resembling a battlefield. Capable individuals were not valued, while incompetent favorites gained power.
The Jiang brothers were loyal ministers who offered advice multiple times, but what was the result? Their entire family was slaughtered, exiled, scattered, and killed, all in the capital. Generals Xiao and Liu, who once ascended the throne, suffered from the royal family's hardships. Think of the sorrow in the "Wei Yang Song," why did they have to come to such a tragic end? Minister Xu, a man of integrity, sought to uphold the state, but his family was wiped out before he could do anything. Grand Secretary Shen, thinking of retiring peacefully, was suddenly executed, a truly heartbreaking event!
Therefore, talented ministers were all marginalized, and noble families were left without successors. Wearing fine hats became a badge of favor, and the palace was filled with corrupt officials! Even heaven cannot stand by idly; a change in the realm is imminent! In recent years, uprisings have erupted in three provinces, and now five more regions are in turmoil. In the past, the water in a pond changed color during the Han Dynasty, leading to the removal of a prince; an earthquake in Wu County led to suspicions of treason. The current situation is graver, and the offenses more heinous than ever. If these issues are not resolved, who knows what terrifying events may unfold in the future!
Wang Puye, Wang Lingjun, and Cui Hu Jun are all honest and upright individuals who are deeply concerned about the affairs of the state. Xiao Weiwei, Cai Zhan Shi, and Shen Zuo Wei all hail from prestigious families and feel disheartened by the current chaos. As loyal officials from the previous dynasty, they aspire to serve the country, build their reputations, and collaborate to achieve a significant goal. Prince Jian'an possesses noble character and exceptional talent, and he truly deserves to inherit the throne. The contrast between folly and wisdom has been noted by wise sages throughout history. I am currently serving in the military and urgently request to return home. Once the situation in the capital stabilizes, we can welcome the emperor back, ushering in an era of peace and prosperity—how wonderful that would be!
Pei Yuzhou has long sent envoys to express his loyalty; he has always harbored great ambitions, and his elite troops have already reached the Huai River. Shen Sizhou is known for his integrity and determination, actively responding to the call and leading his troops to meet the challenge. Sima Cuigongzu from Nanyanzhou is exceptionally brave, achieving frequent victories; we eagerly await his news as we work together. Officials Xiao and Zhang from Jingzhou and Yingshouzhou are both eager to mobilize their troops at a moment's notice. Among the generals in the Guanzhong and Jifu regions, who isn't our ally?
As the Grand Commandant, he possesses noble character and has achieved both civil and military accomplishments, having won seven battles and commanding respect from all Nine Ministers. He returned from the front lines to safeguard the nation. He originally intended to call for a retreat and refrain from further use of force. However, the sincerity of those loyal to the court makes their devotion difficult to extinguish. In the blink of an eye, an army of one hundred thousand has assembled. Banners flutter across nine rivers, and warships navigate three great rivers, as effortlessly as dousing a firefly's light with seawater or melting ice with a raging flame. My child, you must choose the right path to pursue; do not leave behind a legacy that will be mocked in history.
The imperial court sent General Hu Song and General Li Shu of the rear army to lead the navy stationed at Liangshan; General Zuo Xingsheng of the Left Guard was granted a false token, promoted to General Conquering Barbarians, and was responsible for supervising the military actions of the vanguard troops, stationed at Xinting; General Xu Shibiao of Fu Guo and General Xiaoqi led the army stationed at Du Mamao's residence. Xianda led several thousand people from Xunyang, fought with Hu Song in Caishi, and achieved a resounding victory, terrifying the citizens of the capital.
On the thirteenth of December, Xianda arrived at Xinlin, constructed fortifications, and General Zuo Xingsheng led the army to prepare for battle. That night, Xianda set up numerous campfires along the shore for cover, then secretly crossed the river and attacked the palace city from the north of Shitoucheng. However, a strong wind arose midway, and even when it was light, the destination was not reached. In the early morning of the fourteenth, thousands of people climbed onto Luoxinggang, and the troops in Xinting spotted the campfires, mistakenly believing Xianda was still in position, so they all retreated to rescue, stationed in the south of the city. The palace residents were so frightened that they quickly shut the doors for defense.
Xianda led hundreds of infantrymen, holding a horse spear, and engaged the imperial army outside Xizhou City. After two rounds of fierce fighting, he achieved another significant victory, personally killing several enemies until his spear broke. The imperial army arrived afterwards, and Xianda couldn't resist; he retreated to Wubang Village behind Xizhou, was unseated by the cavalry officer Zhao Tan, and then was killed next to the fence, blood flowing all over the ground, as tragic as the execution of Chunyu Bo. He died at the age of seventy-two. When Xianda was in Jiangzhou, he fell gravely ill and could not be treated, feeling extremely unwell. That winter, heavy snow fell relentlessly, his head was displayed at the Zhuque Gate, yet the snow did not settle upon it. His sons were all executed as well.
Historians commented that the reason why the loyal subjects of Emperor Guangwu were able to preserve their lives and reputations was not only because they did not seek power for themselves, but also because they always supported Emperors Ming and Zhang, sincerely adhered to the legitimate succession, which allowed the emperor to feel secure while the subjects kept to their roles. Wang Mang, Chen Sheng, and others quickly rose to power through their own means, ultimately leading to the downfall of the Jianyuan and Yongming periods; while Xian Da and others in high positions also contributed to the turmoil during the Jianwu and Yongyuan periods. Their contributions did not diminish compared to before, but their positions were even higher; although the court bestowed high honors, the relationship between the ruler and his subjects grew strained. In addition, the emperor's growing paranoia and the chaos in court politics created a perilous environment where everyone was in danger and sought to protect themselves. Xian Da and others ultimately clashed in battle, a serious blunder. Even rival nations can unite in times of crisis, so what about within the court?
Speaking of this Jingze, he is truly a heroic figure who stays calm and composed in crucial moments, as unshakeable as Mount Tai. After achieving great military feats, he was rewarded with a position in the imperial palace and even took care of those troublemakers. Just imagine, he started from such humble beginnings, but with his own abilities, he rose to become a high-ranking official in the southern frontier regions—it's truly remarkable! Later, he wielded significant power in court and enjoyed boundless glory and wealth, residing in a lavish mansion and indulging in exquisite delicacies from land and sea, living an incredibly prosperous life. He defeated Wang Ku, who occupied Henan and Yanzhou, and also vanquished Chen Bing stationed in Xiangyang and Fancheng.
The poem praises: With integrity and respect, he remains resolute in times of crisis. Once he achieved success, he dealt with treacherous foes. Emerging from humble beginnings, he served his duty on the southern front. Commanding power and favor, he dined in grand halls. Wang fell in Hebei and Yanzhou, while Chen was defeated in Xiangyang and Fan. This poem celebrates his lifetime of glorious achievements. From an unknown figure to wielding immense power in the end, only he truly understands the hardships and challenges he endured. Yet, he never lost sight of his original mission: to serve the country and its people, which is what led to his remarkable success. Just think about it: this is what a true hero is!
