Liu Fang was from Wangdu, Hebei. His father, Liu Mengliang, served as the Grand Minister of Agriculture, an ancient official responsible for financial matters. His father followed Cao Cao into Guanzhong, and later, Emperor Zhou appointed him as the Inspector of Dong Liangzhou. Liu Fang was known for his frivolous and cunning personality, often getting into trouble. During Emperor Wu of Zhou's reign, Liu Fang managed to enter the palace as an attendant to the Crown Prince, thanks to his father's status as a meritorious official. After Emperor Xuan ascended the throne, Liu Fang, skilled in flattery, won the emperor's favor and often frequented the court, enjoying considerable prestige. He later rose to Grand Commander and was promoted to Minor Imperial Secretary, much like Yan Zhiyi, both of whom were close confidants of the emperor.
When Emperor Xuan fell gravely ill, he called Liu Fang and Yan Zhiyi to his bedside to discuss important matters. By then, Emperor Xuan could no longer speak. Liu Fang recognized that the young emperor was not capable of managing state affairs. Knowing that Yang Jian (Gaozu) was well-respected and that his father had a good relationship with him, Liu Fang conferred with Zheng Yi and proposed that Yang Jian take on a role in governance. At first, Yang Jian declined, claiming he was unworthy. Liu Fang pressed him, saying, "If you're up for it, jump in; if not, I'll take care of it myself!" Yang Jian had no choice but to go along with it.
When Yang Jian became the Prime Minister, he promoted Liu Fei to be the Sima. At that time, the younger brother of Emperor Xuan, Prince Yang Zan, lived in the palace and often discussed matters with Yang Jian. Liu Fei sent beautiful female entertainers to Yang Zan, who was delighted. Then Liu Fei advised Yang Zan, "Your Highness is the younger brother of the late emperor, and everyone supports you. The young emperor is too inexperienced to manage state affairs. Now that the late emperor has just passed away, the people are anxious. It would be wise for you to retreat to your residence for now. When things stabilize, you can enter the palace and become the emperor. This is the safest course of action!" At the time, Yang Zan was still a minor and not very astute. Upon hearing Liu Fei's words, he believed them to be true and agreed. Because of Liu Fei's idea, Yang Jian appointed him as the Deputy General and also conferred upon him the title of Duke of Huang. He received numerous rewards, and soldiers escorted them on their travels. They garnered public attention, and they were referred to as "Huang" and "Pei." People remarked, "Liu Fei leads from the front, while Zheng Yi pushes from behind." As a result of his great accomplishments, Liu Fei grew arrogant. However, he was rude and greedy, and wealthy merchants flocked to his home daily.
During that time, Wei Jiong rebelled, and Emperor Gaozu sent Wei Xiaokuan to suppress him. Upon arriving in Wuzhi, the generals were divided in their opinions. Emperor Gaozu considered sending either Yang Su or He Ruobi to command the army and asked them, "We need a reliable person to lead the army. Which one of you will go?" Yang Su said he had never been a military leader, and He Ruobi declined due to his elderly mother. Emperor Gaozu did not hold it against them. Eventually, Gao Feng stepped up, and Emperor Gaozu appointed him. Following this incident, Emperor Gaozu's favor for Yang Su began to wane.
Later, Wang Qian and Sima Xiaonan successively rebelled, which made Emperor Gaozu worry day and night, working tirelessly to the point of neglecting his meals. However, Yang Su continued to follow his own whims, spending his days playing and drinking, showing no concern for his duties and neglecting government affairs. Emperor Gaozu was very angry and replaced Yang Su with Gao Feng as Sima. From then on, Emperor Gaozu became more distant and suspicious of Yang Su. After Emperor Gaozu became emperor, although he appointed Yang Su as the Grand General of Pillar of the State and changed his title to Duke of Shu, he was left idle at home and never regained the emperor's trust. Yang Su felt that he had made great military achievements in the past, but now he was neglected and felt increasingly uneasy.
Later, when the capital suffered from famine, the emperor issued an order prohibiting the brewing of alcohol. However, Yang Su permitted his concubine to rent a house, where he opened a tavern to sell alcohol. The Imperial Secretary Liang Pi accused Yang Su, saying, "I have heard that those in high positions should be vigilant against extravagance, and those who have achieved success should be cautious and frugal. Yang Su, you hold a high position, receive a generous salary, and have enjoyed wealth and glory for a long time. You should know to restrain yourself in time and be content, so why do you still seek small profits and personally engage in selling alcohol? By mingling with drunkards, has your home become a den of iniquity? If you are not punished, how can the dignity of the court be maintained?" Despite the emperor's edict, he chose not to hold Yang Su accountable. Yang Su felt increasingly frustrated and unfulfilled.
At that time, the Grand General Liang Shiyan and Yu Wenxin harbored resentment due to their failures. Yang Su maintained close ties with them and frequently visited. Liang Shiyan's wife was beautiful, and Yang Su secretly had an affair with her, unbeknownst to Liang Shiyan. Their relationship deepened, and they conspired to stage a rebellion, plotting to install Liang Shiyan as emperor. Later, when their plot was uncovered, the emperor ordered a thorough investigation. Yang Su realized he couldn't escape and remained silent. The emperor issued a decree for his execution, which stated:
Greetings, everyone. I want to discuss this troubling issue. Since I became emperor, I have consistently been compassionate and considerate towards those around me. Consider this: I rose from a commoner to my current position. The court officials are either my relatives or close friends, and while our ranks may differ, our relationships are deep-rooted. I have always been lenient, considering their well-being, often reasoning with them, and speaking candidly. They should be grateful for my actions, yet some repay kindness with ingratitude, harboring treacherous ambitions, which truly saddens me!
Liang Shiyi, Yu Wenxin, and Liu Fang, these men, when I first ascended the throne, all played significant roles, and I rewarded them heavily and treated them with great favor. We spent time together day in and day out, and they understood my intentions. But to my surprise, these men, one by one, were as ruthless and cunning as wolves, and they did not appreciate my kindness, but conspired to rebel! Liang Shiyi, this old rascal, boasted in his youth that he was destined to be emperor, claiming that fortune tellers had predicted he would become emperor after the age of sixty. When he was an official in Xiangzhou before, he had already harbored rebellious thoughts. Later, when I transferred him back to the capital, I did not hold him accountable, but I never expected his rebellious intentions to intensify. Yu Wenxin and Liu Fang also joined him in the conspiracy. Liang Shiyi even plotted to raise an army in Puzhou, control the Yellow River crossing, block the roads, seize cloth and food, and recruit bandits as soldiers, believing he could easily muster a force. He utterly dismissed the court, ridiculed the court officials, and believed that once he took action, no one could stop him. One son tried to reason with him, while the other vehemently opposed him, but he refused to listen.
After I heard about it, I still held onto a sliver of hope, wondering if there was a mistake. I then arranged for him to be the governor of Jinzhou to see if he was plotting anything. Instead, he thought this was a sign from above, and Yuwen Xin and Liu Fang flattered him, calling it a golden opportunity. Yuwen Xin was sent to Ye City and got even more arrogant. He was already high-ranking, but he still felt underappreciated, even saying, "What are my chances of success if I rebel?" Everyone was talking about his arrogance. I ignored his past contributions and never called him out, even letting him be the Commander of the Guards and lead the army, treating him as a trusted aide. However, he secretly formed factions, putting his buddies in the palace and frequently recommending his relatives and friends to serve there. I trusted him completely, but he just got worse. I even took away his military power, hoping he'd change, but he still had his treacherous intentions and conspired even more closely with Liang Shiyan, even swearing together to rebel. They divided up their roles, with Liang Shiyan responsible for Hedong and Yuwen Xin for Guanzhong. They planned to meet at Pujin Pass, then hit Jinyang and take down the court. After Liu Fang became an official in the Prime Minister's Office, he got even more corrupt without a care, getting caught three times, with his wife ratting him out twice. He liked to say his name was "Mao Jindao" and that he was "Yi Wanri," claiming the Liu family was destined to be emperors and he'd be the "Emperor of Ten Thousand Days."
I have advised him many times, telling him the stakes, and have repeatedly shown him tolerance, hoping he can turn over a new leaf. But while he professed repentance, his heart remained unchanged, and his relationship with Liang Shiyan grew increasingly close. I was aware of their rebellion plans. They even discussed several ominous matters together, such as what happened when Tai Bai Star was offended, what the signs of Dong Jing Star were, how the Qin Dynasty fell into chaos, how the Xuanyuan clan declined, and whether there would be trouble in the palace, all waiting for Puban to initiate a revolt and then provide support within the Guannei region. Their rebellion plans are too numerous to count. Yu Wenxin and Liu Fang have such high official positions, yet they willingly chose to serve under Liang Shiyan. They all have ulterior motives and want to seize power during the chaos. These people are truly despicable! Although the country has laws, they deserve to die, but considering their previous contributions, I have been hesitant about imposing severe punishment on them. Liang Shiyan, Yu Wenxin, and Liu Fang are the masterminds, and Liang Shiyan's son Shuxie also participated; their actions are unforgivable, and I have executed them. However, considering their brothers and nephews, I have exercised leniency and spared them from execution, merely dismissing them from their positions and launching an investigation. The wives and assets of Liang Shiyan, Yu Wenxin, and Liu Fang have been
The death penalty was about to be carried out. Yuwen Xin went to the court, saw Gao Jiang, and kowtowed in a plea for mercy. Gao Jiang was furious and said, "What good is kowtowing now?" So Yuwen Xin was executed, and his family's property was confiscated. A few days later, the emperor came to the archery range in plain clothes, displayed the possessions of Gao Jiang, Yuwen Xin, and Shi Yan's families before everyone, and let all the officials take turns shooting as a warning.
Zheng Yi, courtesy name Zheng Yi, was from Xingyang, Kaifeng. His grandfather Zheng Qiong was the Grand Minister of Wei, and his father Zheng Daoyong was the Minister of Works of Wei. Zheng Yi was highly educated, knowledgeable in music and law, and skilled in horseback riding and archery. Zheng Yi's distant cousin Zheng Wenkuan married the Princess Pingyang of Wei, who was the younger sister of Emperor Yuan of Zhou. Since the princess had no sons, Emperor Yuan appointed Zheng Yi as her son-in-law. Therefore, Zheng Yi was favored by Emperor Yuan from a young age and often played alongside his sons. When he was in his teens, Zheng Yi once visited the Prime Minister's mansion and was playfully teased by the Registrar Li Changzong in front of everyone. Zheng Yi immediately composed himself and said to Li Changzong, "Your position is noble, and we all admire you. Is it really appropriate for someone of your stature to tease me like this?" Li Changzong was taken aback by this. Later, Zheng Wenkuan had two sons, so Zheng Yi returned to his original family.
During the reign of Emperor Wu of the Northern Zhou, Yi began his career as a lowly attendant, but his official career grew, and he became the Grand Master of Ceremonies with the Silver Seal, and later was promoted to Left Attendant Senior Officer. He and the Yitong Liu Fang often served by the emperor's side. After Yi's wife had passed away, the emperor commanded him to marry Princess Liang Angu. When Emperor Wu assumed control of state affairs, Yi was promoted to the Grand Master of the Imperial Household Affairs and shortly thereafter became the Palace Intendant for the Crown Prince.
At that time, the Crown Prince lacked virtue, and the Minister of State, Wu Wan Gui, often advised Emperor Wu to depose the Crown Prince and make the Prince of Qin the heir. The Crown Prince felt increasingly anxious. Later, the Emperor ordered the Crown Prince to campaign against the Tuyuhun. The Crown Prince privately said to his interpreter, "The Prince of Qin is the Emperor's favorite son, and Wu Wan Gui is the most trusted minister of the Emperor. Will this campaign be like what happened to Prince Fusu?" The interpreter encouraged him, "Your Highness, as long as you show filial piety and kindness and fulfill your duties as the Crown Prince, you don't need to worry so much!" The Crown Prince felt reassured after hearing his words. After defeating the Tuyuhun, due to the interpreter's significant contributions, he was appointed as a founding marquis and rewarded with three hundred households.
Later, because the interpreter had gotten too close for comfort with the Crown Prince, Emperor Wu was furious and demoted him to a commoner. However, the Crown Prince summoned him back, and the interpreter remained his usual playful self with the Crown Prince. One time, the interpreter joked with the Crown Prince, "Your Highness, when will you become the Emperor?" The Crown Prince was delighted to hear this, and their relationship became even closer. After Emperor Wu's death, the Crown Prince ascended the throne as Emperor Xuan. The interpreter was quickly appointed as chief minister, granted the title of Duke of Guichang County, rewarded with a thousand households, and entrusted with important political responsibilities.
Not long after, the interpreter was promoted to a higher position as a chief minister of the Ministry of the Interior, elevated to Duke of Pei, rewarded with five thousand households. His son, Shanyuan, was also granted the title of Duke of Guichang, and his other son, Yuancong, was made a county lord of Yong'an, and he was appointed to oversee the compilation of the national history. The interpreter held significant power and became quite arrogant. Once, when Emperor Xuan visited the Eastern Capital, the interpreter illegally appropriated official resources to build a luxurious house for himself. As a result, he was once again demoted to the status of a commoner. Liu Fang repeatedly pleaded with the Emperor, and the Emperor summoned him back, treating him as before. The Emperor also appointed him as the acting Minister of State.
At first, Gaozu and Yang Su were classmates, and Yang Su had long known that Gaozu was destined for greatness, so their relationship was very good, with a deep friendship. Later, Emperor Xuan was wary of Gaozu, feeling uneasy, so he secretly told Yang Su, "I have long wanted to leave the capital and become an official elsewhere; you know this. I'm confiding in you; please help me come up with a plan." Yang Su said, "Given your achievements and reputation, everyone respects you. I want you to enjoy a better life; how could I forget that? I will speak to the Emperor about this." At that time, the Emperor was preparing to send Yang Su to the south to fight, and Yang Su requested to be made a marshal. The Emperor asked him, "What are your thoughts?" Yang Su said, "To pacify Jiangdong, we need to send a royal relative or a respected senior official to guard the area in order to reassure the people. We can send Duke Sui (Yang Jian, who later became Emperor Wen of Sui) there to serve as the commander of Shouyang, in charge of military operations." The Emperor agreed. So the Emperor issued a decree appointing Gaozu as the governor of Yangzhou, and Yang Su led the troops to Shouyang to attack the Chen dynasty. A few days later, the Emperor remained concerned, so he discussed with the Imperial Physician Liu Fang, wanting to summon Gaozu back to the capital to keep him under control. Later, Yang Su proclaimed the imperial edict, and all civil and military officials obeyed Gaozu's commands. At that moment, the Imperial Physician Yan Zhiyi and some eunuchs conspired to have General Yuwen Zhong assist in governing. Yuwen Zhong had already approached the Emperor's seat, and upon learning this, Yang Su quickly gathered Yang Hui, Liu Fang, Huang Fu Ji, and Liu Qiu and rushed in. When Yuwen Zhong and Yan Zhiyi spotted Yang Su and the others, they were startled and attempted to flee, but Gaozu apprehended them. Then, Yang Su deceitfully proclaimed an imperial edict, reappointing himself as the Grand Master of the Interior.
On the second day, Gaozu was appointed as Chancellor, and Yang Su was appointed as Senior Pillar of State and Chief Historian, also overseeing the duties of the Grand Minister of the Interior. When Gaozu became the Grand Chancellor and held the power of the court, he appointed Yang Su to oversee the Ministry of Heaven and be in charge of the affairs of six ministries. Yang Su frequently entered and exited the inner palace, and the emperor took his advice and rewarded him with countless treasures. He was always escorted by guards whenever he went out. His son, Yang Yuanshu, was even granted the title of Companion. At that time, Wei Jiong, Wang Qian, Sima Xiaonan, and others rebelled, and Gaozu valued Yang Su even more. Before long, Yang Su was promoted to Senior Pillar of State, and the emperor pardoned him for his ten capital offenses.
Regarding the translator, his careless and irresponsible work led to a complete mess. Although Emperor Gaozu had some reservations about him and didn't really like him privately, given his past contributions, he was not willing to dismiss him, so he secretly instructed his subordinates not to bring the translator's matters to him. Thus, the translator continued to sit idly in the yamen, doing nothing. Filled with fear, he quickly knelt and begged to resign. Emperor Gaozu offered him some comforting words and showed him kindness. After Emperor Gaozu abdicated, he appointed him as Duke of the Pillar of State, permitted him to retire at home, and gave him many rewards. He also appointed his son Yuanshu as Duke of Chenggao County, with a fief of two thousand families, and his other son Yuanxun as Marquis of Yong'an. His father and late brother were also posthumously granted the title of provincial governors.
The translator felt alienated from the emperor, so he secretly invited a Taoist priest to perform rituals to seek blessings. As a result, his maid reported him, accusing him of being superstitious and practicing witchcraft. The emperor asked him, "I haven't mistreated you, so what kind of play are you putting on?" The translator was speechless and couldn't explain. Later, he separated from his mother, was impeached by the officials, and eventually dismissed from his post. The emperor issued a decree, saying, "This translator hasn't come up with any good ideas but has done plenty of bad things, such as selling offices and prisons, which have caused a stir. If he continues to stay in this world, he would be a disloyal and unjust subject; if he is killed, he would become an unfilial ghost in the afterlife. This situation is really difficult, and I don't know how to deal with him. Let's give him a copy of the 'Classic of Filial Piety' for him to study." He was then allowed to live with his mother again.
Not long after, the emperor issued a decree for him to participate in revising the laws, and he was appointed as the Grand Minister and the Governor of Longzhou. He requested to go home to recuperate, but the emperor summoned him and met him at Lique Palace. The emperor threw a banquet and was in high spirits, saying to him, "You have been demoted for a long time, and I've always felt for you." He then restored his title as Duke of Pei County and promoted him to the rank of Grand Preceptor. The emperor looked at his attendants and said, "Zheng Yi and I have been through thick and thin, experienced many hardships and obstacles. How can I forget him?" Zheng Yi then raised his glass to toast the emperor's long life. The emperor ordered the Minister of the Interior, Li Delin, to draft a decree, and Gao Feng jokingly said to Zheng Yi, "This pen is really powerful!" Zheng Yi replied, "I served as a local official, limping home with a cane, not earning a penny. How can I afford ink?" The emperor laughed heartily.
Not long after, the emperor issued another decree for him to participate in discussions on music. Zheng Yi believed that the seven-tone scale of the Zhou Dynasty was lacking, and since the Sui Dynasty, ritual music should be updated. He reinterpreted the concept of the seven beginnings, naming it "Yue Fu Tones," comprising eight pieces. After presenting it, the emperor greatly appreciated it. Shortly after, he was appointed Governor of Qizhou. After more than a year in office, he was ordered to participate in the formulation of musical regulations at the Ministry of Rites. His musical discussions were documented in the "Records of Music Laws." The emperor praised him, saying, "You have established the laws and corrected the music. You have participated in three aspects of ritual music laws, which is truly a significant accomplishment!" So he returned to Qizhou. In the eleventh year of the Kaihuang era, he passed away from illness at the age of fifty-two. The emperor dispatched envoys to express his condolences and posthumously honored him with the title "Da." His son Zheng Yuanshu inherited his title.
Emperor Yang of Tang, just ascended to the throne, abolished the five-grade title system due to Zheng Yi's notable contributions. The emperor posthumously granted him the title of Duke of Shen and bestowed the title upon Zheng Yuanshu. Zheng Yuanshu initially served as the General of the Cavalry, later promoted to Wubian Langjiang, and, through his military achievements, rose to the position of Right Guanglu Dafu, further promoted to the Right Houwei General. In the later years of the Daye era, he was appointed governor of Wencheng. When the rebel forces emerged, rebel leader Zhang Lun attacked Wencheng, and Zheng Yuanshu capitulated the city to him.
Liu Qiu, styled Maohé, was from Jie County, Hedong, and was the great-grandson of Shilong, who served as the Minister of Works in the Qi Dynasty. His grandfather, Liu Gan, held the position of Left Deputy in the Imperial Secretariat during the Liang Dynasty; his father, Liu Ming, served as a gentleman-in-waiting to the Crown Prince and as the Prefect of Yixing. Liu Qiu was intelligent and renowned from an early age. He held positions as a Gentleman of the Imperial Library and a Marshal during the Liang Dynasty. Later, Emperor Yuan of Liang was cornered by the Wei army and dispatched Liu Qiu to Wei to negotiate peace. Shortly thereafter, Jiangling City fell, and Liu Qiu subsequently entered Guanzhong.
During the reigns of Emperor Ming and Emperor Wu of the Zhou Dynasty, Liu Qiu gradually rose from the position of Scholar of the Linzhi to Crown Prince's Attendant, and was granted the title of Marquis of Changle County. Later, he served as a Senior Official in the Heavenly Officials Bureau. After Emperor Xuan ascended the throne, he appointed Liu Qiu as Minister of the Three Offices, promoted him to Senior Grand Master of the Palace, and entrusted him by Yang Jian with many confidential matters. After Emperor Xuan's death, Liu Qiu stayed in the palace to serve. He conspired with Liu Fang, Wei Mo, and Huangfu Ji to assist Yang Jian (Gaozu) in seizing power. At first, Yang Jian firmly declined and was unwilling to accept. Liu Qiu persuaded him, saying, "This opportunity is rare and should not be missed! Things have progressed to this point, and a decisive plan needs to be made quickly. If you miss the opportunity given by heaven, you will be punished. If you delay further, you may regret it." Yang Jian followed his advice. Liu Qiu was promoted to Senior Grand Master of the Palace and was entrusted by Yang Jian with many confidential matters. Later, Wei Jiong rebelled, which caused chaos throughout the realm. Li Mu, the governor of Bingzhou, was hesitant, prompting Yang Jian to send Liu Qiu to persuade him. Liu Qiu detailed his analysis of the situation to Li Mu, who was very pleased and subsequently pledged allegiance to Yang Jian. Because of Liu Qiu's successful mission, Yang Jian rewarded him with three hundred bolts of brocade and a nine-ring gold belt. At that time, Sima Xiaonan was stationed with troops in Anlu. Yang Jian sent Liu Qiu to persuade him, but before Liu Qiu could arrive, Sima Xiaonan had already fled to the state of Chen. Yang Jian promptly ordered Liu Qiu to pacify the Huainan region and rewarded him with horses and various other items.
In the first year of the Kaihuang period, Liu Qiu was promoted to Grand General and appointed as the Inspector of Xuzhou. He was known for his integrity and simplicity in office, and the people loved him. He was later reassigned as the Inspector of Caozhou. Emperor Yang Jian recalled Liu Qiu's past contributions and wanted to give him a higher title, planning to recall him to the court. He asked his ministers, "When should the Inspector of Caozhou return to the court?" Someone replied, "It is winter now." Yang Jian decided against it. Soon after, Liu Qiu passed away, which left Yang Jian deeply saddened. He posthumously bestowed upon him the title "An." His son, Liu Huitong, inherited his title.
Huangfu Ji, courtesy name Gongming, hailed from Anyi Chaoyang. His grandfather, Huangfu Mu, was the Prefect of Longdong in the Wei Dynasty; his father, Huangfu Dao, served as the Inspector of Huzhou and the Commander of Yongzhou in the Zhou Dynasty. Huangfu Ji lost his parents at the age of three and was brought up by his maternal grandfather, Wei Xiaokuan. Once, while playing chess with his cousins, Wei Xiaokuan noticed his lack of dedication to his studies and sternly urged him to work harder. However, considering his orphaned and helpless situation, he showed him particular leniency. Huangfu Ji lamented to himself, "Without my parents' guidance and growing up in an outside family, how can I discipline myself and strive for learning to establish myself in the future?" Feeling deeply self-critical, he commanded those around him to administer thirty strikes to him. Upon hearing this, Wei Xiaokuan was brought to tears.
From then on, Huangfu Ji studied diligently and extensively across history and literature. During the reign of Emperor Wu of Zhou, he was appointed as a palace reader. During the Jiande era, he was promoted to be a Junior Palace Attendant. When Emperor Wu of Zhou was summering in Yunyang Palace, Crown Prince Xuan was acting as regent. Prince Waila rebelled, and the city gates were closed, as many officials fled. Upon hearing the news, Huangfu Ji rushed to Xuanwu Gate and encountered the Crown Prince. The Crown Prince descended the stairs, took his hand, and wept and laughed, overwhelmed with emotion. Emperor Wu of Zhou appreciated him greatly upon hearing this and promoted him to be a Junior Palace Attendant.
During the Xuanzheng period, the court, based on his previous merits, appointed him as the Marquis of Yiyang County, conferred the position of Jibo Xia Official, and later promoted him to Yuzheng Xia Official. After the death of Emperor Xuan, Gaozu Yang Jian took control of the government. Huangfu Ji contributed a lot, as noted in the "Zheng Yi Zhuan." He was further appointed as Shang Kaifu, promoted to Neishi Zhong Official, granted the title of Duke with a fief of one thousand households, and soon after appointed as Grand General. In the first year of the Kaihuang era, he was sent as the governor of Yuzhou, with his fief increased to two thousand five hundred households. He was then promoted to Minister of the Imperial Clan.
Several years later, he was transferred to the governor of Jinzhou. Before taking office, he kowtowed in gratitude, saying, "I am indeed foolish and have contributed little to the country. I always think of risking my life to repay the court's favor. Now that the Chen dynasty still exists, I believe there are three reasons to conquer it." The emperor asked him what the reasons were, and Huangfu Ji replied, "A great country swallowing a small country is one reason; a righteous army attacking an unjust one is another reason; the third reason for our military expedition is the Chen dynasty sheltering the traitor Xiao Yan. If Your Majesty can assign elite troops, please allow me to lead the troops to victory and achieve great things!" The emperor admired his ambition and encouraged him before allowing him to take office. After the Chen dynasty fell, he was appointed as the governor of Suzhou.
Gao Zhihui led a rebellion in Jiangnan, and the local populace sent Gu Ziyuan to confront them. The two sides were locked in a stalemate for over eight months. Gu Ziyuan thought that Yang Su had achieved significant victories, so he sent a delegation with cattle and wine as a token of gratitude on the Winter Solstice. Yang Su replied, "The Emperor is appointed by Heaven, has the favor of the gods, inherits the abdication of Yao and Shun, and emulates the martial achievements of Tang and Wu. His power extends east to Panmu, farther than the explorations of the alchemists; west to the flowing sands, farther than Zhang Qian reached. Even the distant Western Regions come to pay homage and swear allegiance; the barbarians beyond Congling and Yugu passively obey. The previous false Chen regime hindered the court's civilizing efforts, and the people of Jiangdong endured great suffering. The heavens help the righteous court, using our hands to suppress the rebels. The war progressed smoothly, and the rebel army quickly disintegrated. The people of Jinling were revitalized, and the people of Wu and Kuaiji were also reborn. Now everyone should be grateful, live in peace, and not turn against their benefactors. You are not my people, so why send wine to express gratitude? I am a general of the Sui Dynasty, how can I accept your gesture of diplomacy? Even in the most desperate of circumstances, I will not accept your surrender. Moreover, I am now well-supplied with food and grass, strong soldiers and horses, high walls and thick defenses, and reinforcements are on the way. I am in no shortage of strength. Why employ such duplicitous tactics to mislead me, hinder my loyalty to the court, and disrupt my determination to fight? I will not entertain your suggestions. You should consider your options moving forward; there's still time to reconsider."
Gu Ziyuan finished reading the letter and knelt outside the city to apologize. Yang Su's reinforcements arrived, and the two sides launched a joint attack, quickly defeating the rebel army. Yang Su was appointed as the general of Xinzhou, overseeing military affairs across twelve states. Soon after, he requested retirement due to illness, and the court ordered him to return to the capital, and provided him with imperial physicians for treatment. Palace envoys visited him frequently, inquiring about his condition. Eventually, Yang Su passed away at home at the age of fifty-two and was posthumously honored with the title "An." His son Yang Si succeeded his title, eventually rising to the position of Senior Official during the Daye period.
Wei Mo hailed from Jingzhao and served as the Minister of the Interior in Northern Zhou. Emperor Wen of Sui recognized Wei Mo's strategic talents and promoted him multiple times, ultimately elevating him to the rank of Grand Marshal and Duke of Puan. During the early years of the Kaihuang era, Wei Mo passed away while serving as the Inspector of Puzhou.
Lu Ben, known by his courtesy name Zizheng, was from Fanyang, Zhuo Commandery, Hebei. His father, Lu Guang, was the Minister of Works and Duke of Yan during the Zhou Dynasty. Lu Ben was well-versed in literature, calligraphy, and music. During the reign of Emperor Wu of Zhou, he inherited the title of Duke of Yan, with a fief that included 1,900 households. He later served in positions such as Prefect of Luyang, Deputy Palace Attendant to the Crown Prince, and Equalizing Three Excellencies. He was honored for his contributions in pacifying the Qi state, increasing his fief by four hundred households and rose in rank to become Senior Master of the Army. At that time, Emperor Gaozu (Yang Jian) was the Grand Master of the Army, and Lu Ben made a point to cultivate a relationship with him. After Yang Jian became emperor (Emperor Xuan), Lu Ben was appointed Minister of Works.
When Yang Jian first began to wield power, people had not fully aligned with him yet. He appointed Lu Ben to be by his side. Yang Jian wanted to take Lu Ben to the Eastern Palace, and the officials were unaware of his intentions. Yang Jian secretly had Lu Ben bring soldiers to protect him, then gathered the ministers and said, "Those who want wealth and glory, follow me!" The ministers discussed among themselves; some wanted to go, while others wanted to stay. When Lu Ben arrived with the soldiers, no one dared to move. They went out of Chongyang Gate and arrived at the Eastern Palace, but the guards wouldn't let them in. Lu Ben addressed them, but they remained obstinate. Lu Ben rebuked them sharply, and only then did the guards step aside. Thus, Yang Jian was granted entry. Lu Ben was tasked with Yang Jian's personal security, and later when Yang Jian asked him about some matters, Lu Ben advised him, saying, "The Zhou Dynasty's rule has come to an end. The common people and the heavens all hope for you to become emperor. You should follow the will of heaven and satisfy the people's hearts. If you miss the opportunity given to you by heaven, you will bear the responsibility!" Yang Jian greatly agreed with him.
After Yang Jian became emperor, he had Lu Ben in charge of overseeing the maintenance of the imperial palace and also continue to be in charge of security. Lu Ben suggested changing the flag of the Zhou Dynasty and proposing auspicious names. The *Azure Dragon Flag*, the *Zouyu Flag*, the *Vermilion Bird Flag*, the *Black Tortoise Flag*, the *Thousand Autumns Flag*, and the *Ten Thousand Years Flag* were all designed by Lu Ben. Later, he was appointed as the Cavalier Attendant, in addition to serving as the Left Imperial Secretary to the Crown Prince, the Left Leading General, and the Right General.
At that time, Gao Jiao and Su Wei wielded significant power in the court, and Lu Ben was very dissatisfied. General Liu Fang was sidelined by Gao Jiao and Su Wei, so Lu Ben secretly collaborated with Liu Fang, Grand Preceptor Yuan Xie, Li Xun, and Zhang Bin, the Governor of Huazhou, to dismiss Gao Jiao and Su Wei and support the Emperor together. Since the Emperor favored Prince Jin above all, they plotted to depose the Crown Prince and install Prince Jin in his place. Lu Ben also discreetly told the Crown Prince, "I often come to see you; I fear the Emperor's wrath, please understand my difficulties." Their conspiracy was uncovered, prompting an investigation by the Emperor. Liu Fang and the others shifted the blame onto Zhang Bin and Lu Ben, and the courtiers unanimously declared that these two deserved death. The Emperor, recalling their past loyalty, could not bring himself to execute them, so he stripped them of their official titles and allowed them to return home as commoners. Zhang Bin soon passed away.
More than a year later, Ben was promoted and became the Minister of Rites. Ben discovered that in ancient palace music, the number of musical tones varied; some had seven, some had eight, and there was no unified standard among the great scholars of past dynasties. So he wrote to the emperor, saying, "Before the Yin and Shang dynasties, the pentatonic scale was commonly used; after King Wu of Zhou overthrew the Shang dynasty, he was inspired by the sounds of the cuckoo, fire, and celestial horses, and thus changed to the heptatonic scale. After the establishment of the Han dynasty, they added the Yingzhong bell, so a set of bianzhong consists of sixteen bells. Zheng Xuan's commentary on the 'Rites of Zhou' stated that sixteen bianzhong make up one set. This shows that the heptatonic and octatonic scales have a long history. However, there were changes in each dynasty, and the usage varied. By the time of Emperor Wu of Zhou, they changed back to the heptatonic scale, using Linzhong as the palace music. Music is the foundation of governing a country, so to change customs and habits, nothing is more effective than music. Wu Qi assessed a country's rise and fall by observing its music. Therefore, music can move heaven and earth, summon ghosts and gods; human emotions are expressed through sound, and the governance of a country follows suit. Emperor Wu of Zhou using Linzhong as the palace music is probably a sign that the country is about to perish. Furthermore, the musical scale of Linzhong is actually the next note below Huangzhong. Huangzhong represents the monarch, and Linzhong is born below Huangzhong, clearly symbolizing the royal nine-five honor. While the yin notes represent the ministers, occupying the position of the monarch, showing even more auspicious signs of the country's ascension. This is a coincidence of celestial patterns, separate from human matters. I humbly request Your Majesty to wield the power of the realm; your governing methods surpass those of your predecessors. After achieving success, establish new music rules, which is consistent with past strategies. I have heard that the music of the Five Emperors was different, and the rituals of the Three Kings were also different, all adjusted according to the changes of the times, but they did not lose their legitimacy." The emperor finally accepted his suggestion, changed back to using the octatonic scale, with Huangzhong as the palace music. The emperor also ordered Ben and his colleague Yang Qing to revise the music of the Zhou dynasty and the State of Qi together.
Not long after, Ben was appointed governor of Yingzhou, and shortly after, he was transferred to governor of Guozhou. Later, he was promoted to governor of Huaizhou. He dug a channel for the eastward flow of the Qin River, named Li Min Canal, and brought water into Wen County, named Wenrun Canal, to irrigate saline-alkali land, greatly benefiting the people. Several years later, he was transferred to governor of Qizhou. At that time, the people were hungry and food prices soared. He prohibited private grain sales and personally oversaw the sale of grain. As a result, he was eventually dismissed from his position and reduced to the status of a commoner.
Later, I followed the emperor to Luoyang, and the emperor casually said to Ben Xiaoye, "When I first became Grand Marshal, you were completely devoted to me. Later, when I managed the officials, you were often by my side; we were pretty close. If it weren't for you colluding with those bad people, your position would have been as high as Gao Feng’s was. It was because of this that you were dismissed from office. Think about our past relationship; I’ve even let you become a local official again; why don't you think about repaying me instead of causing this! I can’t bring myself to kill you; this would be favoritism!" Ben Xiaoye kept bowing and apologizing, and the emperor ordered that his official position be restored.
After a few days, Ben Xiaoye made another mistake while receiving the emperor's decree, bragging and whining endlessly. The emperor was furious and said to his ministers, "I intend to appoint him as a governor of a province to see if he is capable. If he continues like this, then he can no longer be used." Later, the crown prince pleaded for Ben Xiaoye, saying, "These people have all contributed to the emperor's reign. Although they are reckless and adventurous, they should not be abandoned." The emperor said, "I have shown him enough leniency to spare his life. Without Liu Fang, Zheng Yi, Ben Xiaoye, Liu Qiu, and Huang Fuji, I would not have reached this point today. However, these individuals are unreliable. During the reign of Emperor Zhou Xuan, they won the emperor's favor through sycophancy and deception. When the emperor fell ill, they wanted to have royal princes assist in governance, but they resorted to scheming and transferred power to me. I aimed to govern the country effectively, but they sought to create chaos. That's why Liu Fang plotted rebellion before, and Zheng Yi later engaged in witchcraft. Individuals like Ben Xiaoye are all discontent. If I promote them, they become arrogant; if I dismiss them, they complain endlessly. It is genuinely hard to trust them, and it's not that I don't want to promote them. You might privately say that I don't value my loyal subjects, but that's not true."
Su Wei stood up and said, "Emperor Guangwu of Han wanted to preserve his loyal subjects by granting them marquis titles to hold ceremonial roles in the court. Your Majesty, you are kind and generous; you can also follow this method to appease them." The emperor agreed. Thus, Ben Xiaoye was permitted to retire at home, and he died that year at the age of fifty-four.
In historical records, it is said that Emperor Gaozu established the foundation of the Great Han Dynasty. Fang and Yi were two key figures who provided crucial advice at the beginning. They held high positions of power and influence, and everyone thought highly of them. However, they could not forget about their own safety, were eager to treat their ailments, and abandoned their gratitude for the sake of righteousness. In doing so, they only thought about how to protect themselves, seeking stability and reaping some rewards. When the emperor moved the capital to the Mingde Palace, things changed, and their situation naturally took a turn. Reflecting on past events, they began to feel discontent, ashamed in comparison to Wu Qi and Geng Bing, and embarrassed to associate with the Marquis of Jiang and Guan Ying. They had never truly devoted themselves to the emperor, which was never their intention. Not being filial to their parents, they were criticized by many. During the Zhou Dynasty, they did not show unwavering integrity; during the Sui Dynasty, they did not wholeheartedly serve. As a result, their previous contributions were overshadowed by their unjust actions, planting the seeds of resentment and making it difficult to avoid the death penalty to save their lives and maintain their wealth. People like Liu Qiu, Huangfu Ji, and Lu Ben succeeded with the help of others. They worked in harmony, never breaking the rules. When the Great Han Dynasty prospered, not one of them could participate in core decision-making. In essence, they sought to please themselves instead of facing criticism, which is a common principle. Yan Ying once said, "One person can serve a hundred monarchs wholeheartedly, but a hundred people cannot serve one monarch wholeheartedly." This saying perfectly illustrates the situation of Fang and Yi.
In historical records, Emperor Gaozu established his rule, and Fang and He Yi were key figures in providing advice and strategies, wielding great power with no objections from others. However, they were concerned about their own safety, eager to seek treatment, sacrificing personal connections for the greater good, only wanting to protect themselves and enjoy a life of comfort and luxury. Later, when the emperor moved the capital to Mingde Palace, their circumstances shifted. Reflecting on the past, they began to feel uneasy, feeling inadequate compared to figures like Wu Qi and Geng Bing, and ashamed to be associated with figures like the Marquis of Jiang and Guan Ying. They served the emperor wholeheartedly, not from genuine loyalty, and faced criticism for their lack of filial piety. During the Zhou Dynasty, they did not show loyalty, and during the Sui Dynasty, they did not work wholeheartedly. Their past achievements were overshadowed by their unjust actions, and their resentment led them to seek to escape with their lives and fortunes, which was difficult. Individuals such as Liu Qiu, Huangfu Ji, and Lu Ben achieved success through the support of others, coordinating their efforts and adhering to rules, but after the Han Dynasty's rise to prominence, none of them were able to participate in core decision-making. This reflects a natural tendency to seek approval and avoid criticism. Yan Ying once said, "One loyal heart can serve many lords, but many divided hearts cannot serve one." This saying was validated in the case of Fang and He Yi.
