Liu Hong, with the courtesy name Zhongyuan, was from Congting, Pengcheng, and was the grandson of Liu Fang, the Grand Minister of the Wei Dynasty. He loved learning from a young age and was known for his integrity and strong principles.
He first served as an Assistant Minister in the Qi Dynasty and later served as the governor of Xiangcheng, Peijun, and Guyang, as well as the Governor of Xichu Province. After the fall of the Qi Dynasty, Emperor Wu of the Zhou Dynasty appointed him as the governor of his home county.
During the rebellion of Wei Jiong, Wei Jiong sent his general Xi Pi to attack Xuzhou and Yanzhou. Liu Hong led his troops to resist, and because of his valor, he was appointed as an official of the Yitong San Si position, and also served as the governor of Yongchang and the Changshi of Qizhou. He was eager to achieve great things and sought more than just supporting roles.
When the war to pacify the Chen Dynasty broke out, Liu Hong requested to take part in the war as Chief Military Officer, crossing the Yangtze River with the general Tu Wanxu. Due to his military exploits, he was promoted to the position of Yitong San Si, granted the title of Duke of Huoze County, and appointed as the Governor of Quanzhou.
Later, Gao Zhihui rebelled and attacked Quanzhou. Liu Hong defended the city for over a hundred days, but reinforcements were slow to arrive. Despite leading his troops into battle multiple times, with over half of his men killed or injured and running out of food, he and a few hundred soldiers could only cook and eat rhinoceros hide and their belts, and even resorted to eating tree bark. However, none of his men betrayed him.
Knowing that they were starving, the enemy tried to persuade him to surrender, but Liu Hong resisted even more firmly. The enemy launched a full-scale assault, and the city was eventually breached, leading to Liu Hong's death at the hands of the enemy. Emperor Wu of the Zhou Dynasty praised him for his bravery for a long time after hearing the news and rewarded his family with two thousand bolts of cloth. His son, Liu Changxin, inherited his official titles and positions.
Huangfu Dan, also known as Xuanlv, was a man from the Wushi people in Anding. His grandfather, Huangfu He, served as the Jiaozhou Governor of Wei, and his father, Huangfu Fan, was a Governor during the Zhou and Sui Dynasties. Huangfu Dan had a strong-willed character and was a natural leader from a young age. During the Zhou Dynasty, he was appointed as military staff by King Bi. After Emperor Yang Jian of the Sui Dynasty ascended the throne, he became the Minister of War. A few years later, he was transferred to Lu Province as the Chief Secretary. During the Kaihuang period, he returned to the court and successively served as the Minister of Rites and the Minister of Punishments, both of which he performed excellently. He was later promoted to the position of Imperial Censor, and none of the officials in the court dared not to respect him.
When the emperor noticed that many people were fleeing, he appointed Huangfu Dan as the Envoy to Henan to investigate and handle the situation. After Huangfu Dan returned and reported his work to the emperor, the emperor was very satisfied and appointed him as the Junior Minister of Justice. The following year, he was promoted to the position of Right Chancellor of the Ministry of Personnel, but soon stepped down following the death of his mother. Shortly after, he was reappointed to continue his work and then promoted to the position of Left Chancellor of the Ministry of Personnel. At that time, Prince Han Yang Liang served as the Governor of Bing Province, and the court carefully selected many officials to assist him, including prominent officials who had previously held the titles of Chief Secretary and Sima. The emperor believed that Huangfu Dan was upright and appointed him as the Sima of Bingzhou, with all governmental affairs in the governor's office being consulted with him, and Yang Liang also respected him greatly.
When Yang Guang ascended to the throne, he summoned Yang Liang back to the court. Yang Liang heeded Wang Gui's scheme and initiated a rebellion. Huangfu Dan, in tears, implored Yang Liang many times, but Yang Liang did not listen. Huangfu Dan cried, "I fear that Your Highness's forces are insufficient to withstand an assault on the capital. Moreover, the roles of ruler and subject have been firmly established, and the situation of loyalty and rebellion is completely different. Even with well-trained troops, it is difficult to win. I hope Your Highness will return to the court as ordered, fulfill the duties of a subject, and surely live a long life like Song Qiao, with descendants enjoying prosperity for generations. If you persist in delaying and entangle yourself in rebellion, once you are executed, you may end up lower than a commoner. I hope Your Highness will consider my loyalty and come up with a foolproof plan. I am willing to stake my life on it!" Yang Liang was very angry and imprisoned him.
When Yang Su's army was about to arrive, Yang Liang positioned his troops at Qingyuan to mount a defense. Yang Liang's chief clerk, Dou Lu Yu, released Huangfu Dan from prison, and the two devised a strategy to defend against Yang Liang by sealing the city gates. Yang Liang broke through the city gates, and Huangfu Dan fell in battle. The emperor, mourning Huangfu Dan's sacrifice for the nation, issued a decree saying, "It is customary for the country to honor distinguished individuals, and it is only fitting that he receives a grand burial. Huangfu Dan, the governor of Bingzhou, was erudite and principled, with outstanding accomplishments during his service. Faced with the rebellion of Yang Liang, who was exceptionally cruel, Huangfu Dan remained loyal and did not follow the rebels. Although imprisoned by the enemy, his noble resolve only strengthened, and he secretly resisted with the righteous men in the city. Outnumbered by the enemy, he unfortunately sacrificed himself. He was posthumously honored as a pillar of the state, granted the title of Duke Hongyi, and posthumously honored as Ming." His son Huangfu Wuyi inherited his title.
Wuyi was appointed prefect of Yuyang and excelled in his duties, earning widespread acclaim. Later, the "Daye Decree" was issued, nullifying all prior titles. However, due to Wuyi's upright character and sense of loyalty, the emperor conferred upon him the title of Marquis of Pingyu. He later went to the capital to serve as an official in the Ministry of Justice, also concurrently serving as the Right Guard General.
At the beginning, when Han Wangliang rebelled, almost all states and counties responded to him, except for Sima Tao Mo and Fanzhi Ling Jingzhao in Lanzhou, who insisted on their position and did not surrender. Tao Mo was from Jingzhao, intelligent and capable, and very responsible. During the Renshou era, he served as the Sima of Lanzhou. After Han Wangliang rebelled, the governor Qiao Zhongkui led troops to suppress him. Tao Mo stopped him and said, "Han Wang's intentions are treacherous. You have received great favor from the court and hold a position of authority. You should do your utmost to remain loyal to the court in gratitude for the emperor's favor. How can you even think of rebelling at a time like this, when the emperor's coffin hasn’t even been buried?" Qiao Zhongkui was shocked and asked, "Is the Sima planning to rebel?" Although he threatened Tao Mo with force, Tao Mo stood his ground and remained unwavering. Qiao Zhongkui was taken aback by Tao Mo's resolve and eventually gave up. His subordinates said, "If we don't kill Tao Mo, how can we suppress others?" So they imprisoned Tao Mo, seized all his property, and distributed it to those who supported the rebellion. After Han Wangliang was defeated, Emperor Yang of Sui recognized Tao Mo's talents and appointed him as Kaifu, and later made him the Daxing Ling.
Later, Yang Xuangang rebelled, and Tao Mo followed Wei Xuan to suppress him. Thanks to his military accomplishments, he was promoted to the position of Yinqing Guanglu Daifu and eventually died in office. Jingzhao, whose courtesy name was Jishan, was from Puzhou, Shanxi. His father was named Yuan Yue and held a high position in the Northern Zhou dynasty. Jingzhao served as the Fanzhi county magistrate during the Sui Renshou period and performed remarkably well, earning a good reputation. Later, bandits attacked, and he resisted to the end, resulting in the city falling.
The bandit leader, Mobi, looted his property and threatened him with swords. Jingzhao was not afraid at all and stood his ground. Mobi, impressed by his integrity, backed off and handed him over to the fake general Qiao Zhongkui. Qiao Zhongkui wanted him to serve as the Sima of Daizhou, meaning to appoint him as an official, but Jingzhao firmly turned him down, refusing multiple times.
Qiao Zhongkui was furious and said, "Either accept the official position or I'll kill you!" Jing Zhao replied, "I was originally a county magistrate. In this chaotic world, I couldn't protect the city or sacrifice for the country. It's embarrassing enough, and now you want to force me with an illegitimate official position from the pseudo-dynasty? I've never heard of anything like that!"
Qiao Zhongkui became even angrier, glaring at Jing Zhao as he said, "Aren't you afraid of death?" and was about to kill him. However, at that moment, Yang Yichen's army arrived, and Qiao Zhongkui hurried out to battle, resulting in a major defeat. Jing Zhao narrowly escaped.
In the third year of the Daye reign of Emperor Yang of Sui, the emperor went to Fenyang Palace to escape the summer heat. The Prefect of Daizhou, Liu Quan, and Sima Cuibao submitted a memorial to reward Jing Zhao, but Yu Shiji intercepted it. Later, Jing Zhao became the county magistrate of Chaoyi, but he passed away shortly after.
You Yuan, styled Chu Ke, was from Guangping and was the great-grandson of Xuan Sun of the Wei Dynasty. His father, You Baozang, held the position of Governor. You Yuan was exceptionally intelligent as a child. At sixteen, he was recruited by the Minister of Works of Qi State, Xu Xianshou, to serve as a military officer. After Emperor Wu of Zhou pacified Qi State, You Yuan successively served as the county magistrate of Shouchun and Sima of Qiaozhou, earning a good reputation. During the reign of Emperor Wen of Sui, he became an Imperial Censor. When Prince Jin, Yang Guang, became the Governor-General of Yangzhou, he appointed You Yuan as a legal advisor. After his father passed away, You Yuan resigned and returned home to observe mourning. Once the mourning period was over, he became an internal monitor. Upon Emperor Yang of Sui's ascension, You Yuan was promoted to the position of Gentleman of the Department of Revenue.
During the Liaodong Campaign, You Yuan served as the Chief of the Left Valiant Guard and was the military inspector of Gai Moudao. He was conferred the title of court official, concurrently serving as an imperial secretary. When the nine armies led by Yu Wenshu were defeated, Emperor Yang of Sui ordered You Yuan to investigate their cases. Yu Wenshu was extremely powerful at that time, whose son had married the Princess of Nanyang, and his influence spread throughout the court. Yu Wenshu sent a servant from his household to find You Yuan, hoping for his help. However, You Yuan refused to see him. A few days later, You Yuan confronted Yu Wenshu in person, saying, "As a senior official of the court, you should set an example by being loyal to the emperor. Why did you send someone to ask for my help? What are you trying to accomplish?" You Yuan conducted a thorough investigation and ultimately brought charges against Yu Wenshu. Emperor Yang of Sui admired You Yuan's integrity and bestowed upon him a set of court robes. Nine years later, You Yuan was ordered to supervise the transportation of military supplies in Liyang at the time of Yang Xuangan's rebellion. Yang Xuangan told You Yuan, "Emperor Yang of Sui is tyrannical and oppressive; the scholars and officials across the realm have fallen victim to him. We are trapped in remote areas, the military supplies are cut off; it is time for heaven to end his rule! I intend to rise against him; what do you plan to do?" You Yuan replied sternly, "Your father was greatly favored by the emperor, had great achievements, and held high positions, which was rare in ancient times. Your brothers also held high positions; you should be loyal and repay the emperor's favor. I did not expect that shortly after your father's death, you would plot rebellion. I genuinely believe that your actions are misguided; I hope you think carefully about the consequences. Even if I die, I will not participate in your rebellion!" Yang Xuangan became angry upon hearing this, detained You Yuan, and threatened him repeatedly with force, but You Yuan remained steadfast. In the end, Yang Xuangan killed him. Upon hearing this, Emperor Yang of Sui held You Yuan in high regard and posthumously conferred upon him the title of Senior Grand Master with the Silver Seal, rewarded him with five hundred pieces of silk, and appointed his son You Renzong as a Senior Grand Master of Zhengyi and the magistrate of Yiyang County.
Feng Ciming, courtesy name Wuyi, was a native of Xindu Changle. His father, Feng Cong, held the high position of Right Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Rites during the Northern Qi dynasty. Feng Ciming had some connections with the imperial family during the Northern Qi dynasty, and at the age of fourteen, he became a military officer for Prince Huaiyang. He later rose to the position of Chief Clerk of Sizhou and then to the position of Attendant in the Imperial Library.
After Emperor Wu of Zhou conquered Northern Qi, Feng Ciming was appointed as a military commander. After Emperor Yang Jian of Sui established the Three Departments, Feng Ciming was appointed as a military officer for the Ministry of Works and Granaries. He continued to rise in ranks and eventually became the Deputy Minister of Rites. When Prince Yang Guang became the governor of Bingzhou, he selected Feng Ciming to serve as his military officer. Feng Ciming later served as an official in the Ministry of Personnel and concurrently as an Attendant in the Imperial Library. After Emperor Yang Guang of Sui ascended the throne, Feng Ciming resigned from his position due to his mother's passing. Emperor Yang Guang had some grievances against Feng Ciming because of his past service in the fiefdom and the court, so he demoted him to the position of deputy general in Yiwu Town. Before he assumed his new position, he was transferred to serve as magistrate in Jiaozhi County.
In the ninth year of Daye, Feng Ciming was summoned back to the capital by the imperial court. At that time, the Minister of War, Husi Zheng, had defected to Goguryeo. Emperor Yang Guang met with Feng Ciming, comforted and encouraged him. Shortly after, Feng Ciming was appointed as a Gentleman of the Ministry of War and was also granted the title of Court Gentleman. In the thirteenth year of Daye, he acted as the magistrate of Jiangdu County. When Li Mi launched an attack on the eastern capital of Luoyang, Emperor Yang Guang ordered Feng Ciming to stabilize the regions around the Chan River and Luoyang, and to pursue Li Mi. When Feng Ciming arrived in Yanling, he was captured by Cui Shu, a subordinate of Li Mi.
Li Mi invited Feng Ciming to his seat, comforted him, and said to him, "The Sui Dynasty has already fallen, the world is in chaos. I lead a righteous army that has been undefeated in battle, and the Eastern Capital is in imminent danger of being captured soon. I now want to lead armies from various regions to attack Jiangdu; what do you think?" Feng Ciming replied, "I, Feng Ciming, act with integrity; death is the worst fate I can imagine, and I dare not speak any unjust words." Li Mi was displeased, hoping he might reconsider in the future, so he treated him well. Feng Ciming secretly sent a petition to Jiangdu and wrote a letter to the garrison commander of the Eastern Capital, analyzing Li Mi's situation.
Upon discovering this, Li Mi, guided by his moral principles, decided to let him go. Feng Ciming walked to the camp gate, and Li Mi's general, Zhai Rang, angrily said, "We caught you, Duke Wei (referring to Li Mi) treated you so well, and you are not grateful at all; aren't you afraid?" Feng Ciming was furious and said, "The Emperor sent me to eliminate you rebels, not to let you capture me. Why would I beg for my life from you? If you want to kill, then kill; no need to curse me!" He also said to those bandits, "You didn't have bad intentions; you only came here to loot because of the famine. The official soldiers will arrive soon, so you better plan for yourselves!" Zhai Rang became even angrier and then executed Feng Ciming. At that time, he was sixty-eight years old. The Prefect of Liangjun, Yang Wang, reported this matter, and Emperor Yang of Sui expressed great regret. He posthumously awarded Feng Ciming the title of Silver-Blue Gentleman of the Household and appointed his two sons, Feng Dun and Feng Peng, as Secretaries of the Imperial Household. Later, Wang Chong supported Prince Yue, Yang Dong, in becoming emperor and posthumously granted Feng Ciming the titles of Pillar of the State, Minister of Revenue, and Duke of Changli, along with the posthumous title of Valiant and Martial.
The eldest son is named Chen, who had been in the Eastern Capital. Wang Chong defeated Li Mi, and Chen was also in the army. He then sent a servant to carry his father's coffin to the Eastern Capital, but did not go himself. Not long after, he held a grand wedding. Many people criticized him at the time, calling his actions outrageous.
This kid, as soon as his father passed away, had someone send the coffin back to his hometown, but he didn't go himself, and then he got married right away. Isn't that a bit too soon? At that time, people criticized him one after another, feeling that he was too unfilial and disregarded moral principles.
Zhang Xuduo was from Wanxiang in Hongnong, known for his strong character, courage, and strategic mind. When he was young, he followed Shi Wansui to fight against the Western Cuan, made achievements, was appointed as Yitong Sansi, and was rewarded with three hundred bolts of cloth. After Emperor Yang of Sui ascended the throne, Han Wang Liang rebelled in Bingzhou. Zhang Xuduo followed Yang Su to suppress the rebellion and was promoted to Kaifu. During the Daye period, he served as the magistrate of Qijun. At that time, there was a campaign against Liaodong; people were unemployed, and there was a famine, causing food prices to soar. Zhang Xuduo wanted to open the granary to provide relief to the people, but his subordinates insisted, "We must wait for the emperor's decree; we cannot distribute it without authorization." Zhang Xuduo said, "The emperor is currently far away in Liaodong; sending messengers back and forth will definitely take a long time. The common people are already on the verge of starving to death. If we wait for the imperial order to come, they will all die in the ditches. If I get into trouble for this, I won't regret it!" So he opened the granary to help the people first and then reported to the court. When the emperor found out, he didn't hold it against him.
In the second year, the bandit leader Wang Bo gathered tens of thousands of outlaws and plundered the Qi region. The officials engaged them in battle several times but were unable to secure a victory. Zhang Xuduo led the troops to resist, so Wang Bo led his army south to plunder the Lu region. Zhang Xuduo pursued relentlessly and caught up at the foot of Mount Tai. Wang Bo, overconfident from his previous victories, was caught unprepared. Zhang Xuduo selected his elite troops to launch a surprise attack. Wang Bo's army was defeated, and Zhang Xuduo pursued, killing thousands of enemies. Wang Bo regrouped his remaining troops of over ten thousand and attempted to cross the Yellow River to escape north. Zhang Xuduo caught up with them once more at Linyi and delivered another crushing defeat, killing over five thousand and capturing a substantial haul of livestock. At that time, there had been peace for a long time, and many people were unfamiliar with warfare. Only Zhang Xuduo was brave, decisive, and skilled in combat. He was also good at comforting soldiers and earned their support, earning the title of a famous general.
Wang Bo launched another attack to the north, joining forces with bandits Dou Zize, Sun Xuanya, Shi Shida, and Hao Xiaode, totaling over a hundred thousand troops to attack Zhangqiu. Zhang Xuduo sent the navy to cut off their water transport and personally led twenty thousand infantry and cavalry to launch an attack, defeating the enemy and scattering the raiders. When they reached the river crossing, they were blocked by the navy and ambushed, leading to a chaotic and disorganized retreat. Zhang Xuduo seized a substantial haul of wealth and supplies, which he promptly reported to the court. The emperor was extremely pleased and issued an edict praising him for his achievements, even sending a portrait as a gift. In the same year, bandits Pei Changcai, Shi Zihe, and others led twenty thousand troops to suddenly attack the city and plunder. Zhang Xuduo, unable to gather his troops in time, personally led five cavalrymen to fight. The bandits swarmed him, surrounding him on several sides, and he sustained many injuries but fought bravely. When reinforcements arrived, the bandits retreated slightly, and Zhang Xuduo rallied his troops for another assault, causing Pei Changcai to flee in defeat.
After several dozen days, the bandit leaders Qin Junhong and Guo Fangyu, along with others, joined forces to surround Beihai with a formidable military force. Zhang Xuduo said to his subordinates, "The bandits are arrogant and think I cannot come to their aid. I will quickly rush over now and surely defeat them!" So he selected elite soldiers, marched day and night, and indeed caught the bandits by surprise. Zhang Xuduo defeated the enemy, killing tens of thousands and capturing three thousand supply wagons. The governor of Sili, Pei Cao, reported this to the emperor, and the emperor sent envoys to commend him. Ten years later, the bandit Zuo Xiaoyou led a hundred thousand troops and camped at Dungou Mountain. Zhang Xuduo set up the Eight Winds formation to approach them and deployed troops to guard key positions. Zuo Xiaoyou had no option but to surrender. His accomplices Jie Xiang, Wang Liang, Zheng Dabiao, Li Han, and others, each led tens of thousands of troops and horses, were all subdued by Zhang Xuduo, whose reputation instilled fear across the east and the west. Because of his achievements, he was promoted to governor of Qijun, while also serving as the chief envoy for the twelve counties of Henan Province.
Before long, the bandit Lu Mingyue led over 100,000 soldiers, preparing to attack Hebei and camped at Zhu'a. Zhang Xuduo set an ambush and killed thousands. Bandits such as Lv Mingxing, Shuai Rentai, and Huo Xiaohan each led tens of thousands of soldiers to harass Jibei. Zhang Xuduo attacked and drove them away. He then led troops to resist the bandit Zhai Rang in Dongjun, fighting over thirty battles and defeating them each time. Later, he was promoted to magistrate of Xingyang. At this time, Li Mi persuaded Zhai Rang to attack Luokou Warehouse, but Zhai Rang, fearing Zhang Xuduo, did not dare to act rashly. With Li Mi's persuasion, Zhai Rang and Li Mi led their troops to approach Xingyang, and Zhang Xuduo resisted them. Fearing him, Zhai Rang retreated, and Zhang Xuduo pursued them for over ten miles. At this time, Li Mi had previously ambushed thousands of men in the woods, attacking Zhang Xuduo's army, resulting in the defeat of Zhang Xuduo's army. Li Mi and Zhai Rang surrounded Zhang Xuduo, who managed to break through with his troops. The troops on the left and right flanks couldn't fully break through, and Zhang Xuduo rode in to rescue them. After several attempts to break through, the army scattered, and Zhang Xuduo sighed, "How can I face the emperor after such a defeat?" He dismounted and died in battle at fifty-two. His subordinates wept all night and for days on end. King Dong of Yue sent Grand Master Pei Renji to pacify his men and move them to Wulao for stationing. The emperor ordered his son Zhang Yuanbei to command his father's army, but Zhang Yuanbei ran into bandits in Qijun and couldn't continue.
Yang Shanhui, also known as Jingren, was from Huayin, Hongnong. His father was the Prefect of Piling. During the Daye era, Yang Shanhui became the county magistrate of Shu County and gained a reputation for his honesty and integrity. Not long after, Shandong was hit by famine, and the people, left with no food, banded together and turned to banditry. Yang Shanhui led a few hundred men after them, capturing them each time.
Later, the bandit leader Zhang Jincheng led tens of thousands of troops to camp near Shu County, burning, killing, and looting with widespread chaos, and local officials and soldiers were powerless against him. Yang Shanhui motivated his troops and fought many battles against Zhang Jincheng's army, defeating the enemy each time. Emperor Yang Guang sent General Duan Da to attack Zhang Jincheng, and Yang Shanhui provided Duan Da with a good idea, but Duan Da did not adopt it, which led to a defeat for his forces. Duan Da later regretted it and specifically thanked Yang Shanhui. Later, Yang Shanhui fought with Zhang Jincheng again, using tactics each time, and finally achieved a great victory.
Zhang Jincheng then recruited the bandits Sun Xuanya and Gao Shida from Bohai, leading hundreds of thousands of troops to break through Liyang and return aggressively. Yang Shanhui led a thousand elite soldiers to intercept them, defeated them, and was promoted to the position of court official and magistrate of Qinghe County. Zhang Jincheng then relocated his camp and sent a small number of troops to raid Guanshi County. Yang Shanhui and the Prefect of Pingyuan, Yang Yuanhong, led tens of thousands of troops to execute a surprise assault on Zhang Jincheng's main camp. General Wang Bian's army also arrived, and Zhang Jincheng abandoned Guanshi County to come to the rescue, but ultimately lost to Wang Bian. Yang Shanhui selected five hundred elite soldiers as reinforcements, and they became an unstoppable force, helping Wang Bian's army to regain their strength. The bandits fell back to their main camp, and all other troops retreated.
At that time, Shandong was in chaos all over, with people joining the bandits left and right. The local officials and troops were outmatched, falling one after another. Only Yang Shanhui could resist the bandits, fighting over 700 battles without losing once. However, he always felt he was outnumbered and couldn't completely eliminate the bandits. Later, Grand Preceptor Yang Yichen went to attack Zhang Jincheng, but he was defeated and forced to retreat to Linqing. Yang Yichen used Yang Shanhui's strategy, fought several decisive battles against Zhang Jincheng, which eventually drove him to flee. Yang Yichen pursued him and attacked his camp, capturing all his soldiers. Zhang Jincheng fled with a few hundred men and later fled to Zhangnan, where he recruited more followers. Yang Shanhui caught up with Zhang Jincheng and took him down, and presented his head to the emperor. The emperor rewarded him with a fine sword, armor, and a spear, and promoted him to Prefect of Qinghe.
That same year, Yang Shanhui followed Yang Yichen to kill the bandit chief Gao Shida in Zhangnan and sent his head to Jiangdu Palace. The emperor also issued an edict to commend him. Gao Shida's subordinate, Dou Jiande, who called himself the King of Changle, launched an attack on Xindu. Wang Anzu, the bandit chief from Linqing, with a few thousand troops, coordinated with Dou Jiande. Yang Shanhui launched a surprise attack on Wang Anzu and killed him. After Dou Jiande captured Xindu, he came to harass Qinghe. Yang Shanhui resisted but was defeated and forced to defend the city. Dou Jiande besieged the city for forty days; the city fell, and Yang Shanhui was captured. Dou Jiande released Yang Shanhui, treated him honorably, and made him the governor of Beizhou. Yang Shanhui cursed, "You old thief, how dare you compare yourself to the pillars of the state! I hate that I couldn't catch you. I am not like you ruffians who kill pigs and sell liquor; how dare you make me work for you!" Facing the enemy's army, Yang Shanhui spoke boldly and without fear. Dou Jiande wanted to keep him, but his subordinates requested to kill him. Dou Jiande also felt that Yang Shanhui would not ultimately serve him, so he killed him. The people of Qinghe mourned deeply.
Dugu Sheng, the younger brother of the Grand Preceptor Dugu Kai, was known for his strong character and bravery. When Emperor Yang of Sui was still serving as the commander of Yangzhou, Dugu Sheng served alongside him and gradually climbed the ranks, eventually rising to the position of General of Chariots and Cavalry. When Emperor Yang of Sui ascended the throne, he grew closer to Dugu Sheng because they knew each other from their time in the fief, and he received several promotions, eventually rising to the position of General of the Right Garrison.
During the rebellion led by Yuwen Huaji, Pei Qiantong led his troops to Chengxiang Palace, a key stronghold. The guards at the palace abandoned their posts and fled. Dugu Sheng said to Pei Qiantong, "What kind of army is this? This situation is too unusual!" Pei Qiantong replied, "It is what it is, General; there's no need for you to worry." Dugu Sheng cursed angrily, "You old thief, what are you babbling on about?" Without donning his armor, he charged into battle with a dozen men but was killed by the rebels. Later, Prince Yang Dong later became emperor and posthumously honored him as Guanglu Daifu, Jiguo Duke, and bestowed the posthumous title of Wujie.
Yuan Wendu was the nephew of Yuan Xiaozhu, the Duke of Xunyang. His father, Yuan Xiaozhe, had served as the minor tombkeeper of the Zhou Dynasty and the governor of Jiangling. Wendu was known for his straightforwardness, eloquence, and remarkable capabilities. He served as a Right Attendant Officer in the Zhou Dynasty. During Emperor Wen of Sui's reign, he was appointed as an Imperial Secretary and later served as a Ministry of Works official and an Examination Office official, performing exceptionally in both positions. He was then promoted to Left Deputy of the Ministry of Personnel and later to Junior Minister of Agriculture and Grand Master of Records. After Emperor Yang of Sui ascended the throne, he served as a Junior Minister of Agriculture and Grand Master of Records but was dismissed from his position due to misconduct. Soon after, he was appointed Minister of the Imperial Household Department. Emperor Yang came to trust him, and many regarded him as highly capable.
In the thirteenth year of the Daye era, Emperor Yang of Sui departed from the Jiangdu Palace and ordered Wendo, Duan Da, Huangfu Wuyi, Wei Jin, and others to remain in the Eastern Capital. After the death of Emperor Yang of Sui, Wendo, Duan Da, Wei Jin, and others supported Prince Yue, Yang Dong, in becoming emperor. Yang Dong appointed Wendo as Minister of the Interior, Governor of the Household, Grand Master of Ceremonies, General of the Left Valiant Guards, Acting General of the Right Guard, and Duke of Lu. Later, Yuwen Huaji supported Prince Qin, Yang Hao, as emperor, leading his troops to Pengcheng with great force. Wendo advised Yang Dong to send envoys to Li Mi. Li Mi then requested to surrender himself, and Yang Dong granted him an official position and title and warmly welcomed his envoys. Wang Chong was quite displeased with this and held a grudge against Wendo. Knowing this, Wendo secretly plotted to kill Wang Chong. Yang Dong subsequently appointed Wendo as Grand Master of the Palace, but Wang Chong strongly opposed it, so the appointment did not take place.
Lu Chu said to Wendu, "Wang Chong is just a small general of the auxiliary army, originally not a defender; how can he interfere in our affairs? Moreover, he also bears responsibility for the Battle of Luokou and deserves to die a thousand deaths. Now he dares to be arrogant and intervene in court affairs. If we do not eliminate him, he will become a national disaster." Wendu agreed, so he wrote a memorial to be submitted to the emperor. Just as the plan was about to be executed, someone informed Wang Chong about it. Wang Chong was in the court at that time, and when he heard, he was frightened and hurried back to Hanjia City to plot a rebellion. Wendu sent people to call him several times, but Wang Chong claimed to be sick and refused to go. In the evening, Wang Chong rebelled, broke through the Eastern Sun Gate, entered the palace, and met with Yang Dong at the Purple Observatory. Yang Dong sent someone to ask him, "What are you doing?" Wang Chong said, "Yuan Wendu and Lu Chu conspired to kill each other, requesting to execute Wendu and blame the crime on the Minister of State." Realizing Wang Chong's military strength was increasing, Yang Dong understood he could not escape death and said to Wendu, "You should go see General Wang yourself." Wendu hesitated and cried; Yang Dong sent his general Huang Taoshu to escort Wendu out. Wendu turned to Yang Dong and said, "I will die today; Your Majesty will not live long either." Yang Dong tearfully saw him off, and everyone around felt very sympathetic. When they reached the Xingjiao Gate, Wang Chong ordered his men to kill Wendu with a flurry of blades, and his sons were also killed.
Lu Chu, from Zhuojun Fanyang, had a grandfather, Lu Jingzuo, who served as the Minister of Works of the Wei Kingdom. Lu Chu was talented from a young age, but he was straightforward and had a stutter, not very fluent in speech. During the reign of Emperor Yang of the Sui Dynasty, he became the Right Secretary of the Ministry of Personnel, always upright in court, and many officials in court feared him. When Emperor Yang went to Jiangdu, most officials in the Eastern Capital ignored the laws, but Lu Chu consistently stood firm in correcting and exposing wrongdoing.
Later, King Yang Dong proclaimed himself emperor and appointed Lu Chu as the Grand Historian, General of the Left Guard, Acting Left Minister of the Ministry of Personnel, and Right Minister of Rites, granting him the title of Duke of Zhuojun to assist the young emperor alongside Yuan Wendou and others. When Wang Shichong rebelled and his forces attacked the Taiyang Gate, General Huangfu Wuyi of the Wuwei opened the city gate and fled, calling for Lu Chu to escape with him. Lu Chu replied, "Yuan Gong and I have agreed that if the country is in danger, we will pledge to live and die together. Escaping now would be unjust!" When the rebel army entered the city, Lu Chu hid in the Tai Guanshu but was captured by the rebels and taken to Wang Shichong. Wang Shichong angrily ordered Lu Chu to be beheaded, and so the sword fell, separating Lu Chu's head from his body, which was subsequently dismembered.
Liu Ziyi was from Congting Village in Pengcheng. His father, Liu Bian, served as the Sima of Xuzhou in the Qi Kingdom. Liu Ziyi showed a strong academic inclination from a young age and excelled in writing. He had a strong and upright character, as well as talent for government service. He served as the Palace General during the Qi Dynasty. In the early years of Emperor Wen of Sui's reign, he became the magistrate of Nanhe County and gradually rose to the position of military advisor in Qinzhou. In the eighteenth year of Emperor Kaihuang's reign, he participated in the central examination, where the Right Deputy of the Ministry of Personnel, Yang Su, immediately recognized his talent and recommended him to be an Imperial Historian. At that time, Liu Xuan from Hejian believed that Li Gongxiao, who lost his mother when he was four and was remarried at nine, had not benefited from his stepfather's care and suggested not to dismiss him from his position. Liu Ziyi argued:
The ancient texts say, "A stepmother is just like a biological mother; there is no difference between them." Therefore, the status of a stepmother is the same as that of a biological mother, and the etiquette and respect she should receive are the same as those afforded to a biological mother. Moreover, "those who mourn for others should observe filial piety for their parents." The filial person refers to biological children, not stepchildren. Although the father remarries and the status changes, the status of the biological mother remains significant. So the ancient texts say: "Those who mourn for others should observe filial piety for their parents, resign from official positions, and express grief. If the father dies and the mother remarries, even if the one mourning for the father may not agree, they should still express grief. But if the stepmother remarries, there is no requirement to resign from official positions." This only applies to mothers who remarry. In other words, as long as the stepmother remains in the father's household, her status is the same as that of a biological mother. If it is said that without the grace of upbringing one cannot be treated equally, then how should mourning be explained? Since mourning is necessary, can the experience of grief be any different? The meaning of these three laws is very clear. Some people now say that the laws allow for not resigning from official positions, which is truly absurd! Furthermore, those who mourn for others should observe filial piety for their parents, and the mourning regulations remain unchanged even if the biological mother remarries. Since the status of the biological mother and the stepmother is equal, the feeling of grief naturally remains the same. In the "Questions and Answers on Mourning," it says: "After the mother remarries, one should wear mourning clothes for the stepmother." Is this not because the familial ties of the biological mother have been severed, leading to a distance, while the stepmother has become closer because she married the father? Confucius said: "The wife who gives birth is the mother of the child. But being the wife who gives birth does not mean she is the mother." This shows that the degree of mourning is determined by status, while the emotion comes from the father, so the sages emphasize filial piety and sibling respect, valuing status. As a result, children mourn based on status, just like for a biological mother; the stepmother reciprocates with virtue and propriety, just like a biological mother. If it is claimed that the arrival of the stepmother after the children are born leads to a different degree of mourning, then even consulting the classics and scriptures will not find such a statement.
For example, if a person dies when both parents are still alive, and later the parents get remarried, does that mean the level of mourning can be lessened just because they are no longer obligated to provide support?
Wang Bi, a native of Changsha, went to the capital on official business during the late Han Dynasty. Later, after the severance of relations between the states of Wu and Wei, Wang Bi remarried in the capital and had a son named Wang Chang. After Wang Bi's death, Wang Chang became the Minister of Dongping. He found out that his stepmother in Wu had passed away, and he was deeply saddened and chose not to assume his post. At that time, people did not think he did anything wrong. Thus, it can be argued that there is no emotional difference between stepmothers and biological mothers. If the level of mourning must be determined by whether the upbringing is biological, how do we explain Wang Chang's actions? Also, during the Jin Dynasty, General Zhen Nan Yang Hu had no sons, so he adopted his disciple Yi as his son. After Yang Hu's death, Yi did not observe heavy mourning. Yang Hu's wife reported this to the court, and Yi explained, "Uncle raised me during his lifetime, so I dare not go against his wishes. But without my father's orders, I will return to my biological parents." Shangshu Peng Quan believed, "Children must have their father's consent to be adopted. Without consent, adoption is considered unfilial." Therefore, the court agreed with Peng Quan's opinion. It can be said that the level of mourning cannot be determined solely based on the kindness of upbringing.
I believe that etiquette is shaped by human emotions to create rules and systems, while education is grounded in morality. I use this principle to explain his statement. The term "affection" describes the deep bond a mother has with her children; the term "righteousness" pertains to the obligations children have toward their parents. Once the roles and responsibilities are determined, one can respect the father, adhere to the roles, uphold etiquette, and be respectful and obedient. If the mother-son relationship is based solely on the mother's nurturing, then the kindness originates from her, while filial piety must come from the child. The loving mother is just a loving mother; how can one wait for a father's orders to practice filial piety?
He said again, "Stepmothers and birth mothers are essentially strangers, but since she raised me, that is the same as my own flesh and blood." If this is the case, the son will not listen to his father; even if there is the grace of upbringing, can that compare to a birth mother? Although filial piety to a stepmother may not be as lengthy as to a birth mother, it is longer than to ordinary relatives. Etiquette has its rules, and filial piety depends on human relationships. A stepmother's role is defined by her status; how can it vary based on the depth of affection? As for a brother's son, although he is also a son, the feelings of closeness and distance certainly differ, but there is no difference in etiquette service. He said to treat 'yi' as less important and 'ru' as more significant, believing that the two are not the same. The term 'ru' translates to 'like,' indicating similarity; if the importance is different, how can the word 'ru' be used? In law, "zhun wangfa" refers to sentencing based on the severity of the crime, while "yi wangfa lun" refers to treating it the same as a real crime. The law imposes penalties on offenders, and etiquette uses education to regulate behavior. "Zhun" means comparison, and "yi" means the same. The usage of 'ru' and 'yi' in this context is not much different; the principles of etiquette and law seek to address the same issues. Using this reasoning to explain his statement is clear enough; it's as straightforward as chopping wood; what's so difficult to grasp?
First of all, someone said, "Appointing your son as the heir is to let him carry on the family line, serve you personally, and not let the legitimate son return to his original family, allowing him to serve your father's stepmother as a son." However, the father's stepmother is only called so because of the father. According to your logic, should the father not feel sadness? How can you only mention the father's stepmother? Another person said, "According to ritual and legal principles, calling him 'former lord,' can his dignity still be considered that of a lord? He has already left his position and is no longer purely a minister, so the word 'former' is added to distinguish. There is also a sense of respect, which is no longer purely filial piety, so the word 'his' is used to express. Using the term 'his father' carries a different meaning." This is not a universally applicable statement. Why say this? Because the meanings and usages of 'his' and 'former' are distinct. 'Former' is used to refer to old and new, while 'his' is used according to the context at the time. How can they be confused? For example, the "Book of Rites" says, "His father gathers firewood, his son cannot bear the load." The "Zuo Zhuan" says, "Although Wei is small, his lord is there." If 'his father' has a special meaning, does 'his lord' also have a special meaning? Of course not, of course not! Now you are violating ritual law, offending the emperor, breaking the law, causing your son to feel no emotional connection to his biological father, leaving him with a sense of debt in name only, and causing harm to customs. In this enlightened era, you are resorting to forceful arguments, distorting the classics in a misguided attempt to showcase your talents, without realizing that your arguments lack logic.
After the memorial was submitted, Ziyi's suggestions were ultimately accepted. During the Renshou period, he served as the magistrate of Xinfeng County, achieving notable political success. In the third year of Daye, he was appointed as the Chief Justice of Dali and was very famous at the time. Later, he was promoted to the position of the Zhi Shu Shiyu Shi. Whenever there were disputes in the court, Ziyi was able to analyze them with clarity, often exceeding the expectations of others. He once followed the emperor to Jiangdu. At that time, the world was in chaos, but the emperor remained oblivious. Ziyi repeatedly advised the emperor while in his service, which angered the emperor, resulting in his demotion to Danyang. Shortly after, he was sent to oversee the transport of grain and supplies in Shangjiang but was captured by bandits under the leadership of Wu Qizi. Using his clever persuasion, Ziyi eventually convinced the bandit leader. He was then sent to pacify the bandits in the Qingjiang area. When the bandits informed him of Yang Guang's death, Ziyi did not believe them and killed the messenger. The bandits then tried to convince him to become their leader, but Ziyi refused. They brought Ziyi to Linchuan and ordered him to announce to the people inside the city that "the emperor is dead." Instead, Ziyi proclaimed the opposite and was subsequently killed. At that time, he was seventy years old.
Yao Jun hailed from Tangyin in Weijun. When Emperor Yang of Sui was the Prince of Jin, Jun served at his side. After Yang became emperor, Jun was promoted all the way to the rank of Eagle Strike Langjiang. As the Sui Dynasty approached its end and banditry spread, the common people fled, but Jun's forces remained unscathed. Later, he followed the valiant general Qutu Tong in resisting the rebel army in Hedong. Shortly after, Qutu Tong led his troops southward, but because of Jun's courage and insight, he appointed him as the acting governor of Hedong Province. The rebel forces dispatched Lü Shaozong, Wei Yijie, and others to assault Hedong, but they failed to take it.
When the army of Qu Tutong was defeated, they came to the city and shouted for Jun Su to surrender. Jun Su saw Qu Tutong, wept bitterly, overwhelmed with sorrow and despair. Those around him were in tears, and Qu Tutong also cried, his tears soaked his clothes. Qu Tutong said to Jun Su, "My army has already failed. Wherever the rebels go, there is no one who does not respond. This is the situation. You should surrender sooner to secure wealth and honor." Jun Su replied, "You are the emperor's confidant, a high minister of the state. The emperor entrusted Guanzhong to you, the prince entrusted the state to you. The rise and fall of the state is in your hands. Why don’t you consider serving the country instead of ending up like this? Even if I cannot bring myself to feel ashamed for the emperor, the horse you ride was a gift from the prince. How can you still have the face to ride it?" Qu Tutong said, "Ah! Jun Su, I came here due to my lack of strength." Jun Su said, "There is still no lack of strength now. Why say unnecessary words?" Qu Tutong left in shame.
At that time, the city was under tight siege, with no food or supplies left. Jun Su crafted a wooden goose, tied the memorial to its neck, which detailed the current situation, and let it float down the Yellow River. The commander of Heyang received the memorial and immediately sent it to the Eastern Capital. King Yang Tong sighed deeply after reading the memorial and appointed Jun Su as the Grand Master of the Golden Purple Radiance, secretly sending someone to comfort him. The gatekeeper Pang Yu and the general Huangfu Wuyi both defected to the rebels from the Eastern Capital and came to the city to explain the pros and cons to Jun Su. The Tang Dynasty even sent a golden immunity voucher, promising not to kill him. However, Jun Su had no intention of surrendering. His wife also came to the city to advise him, saying, "The Sui Dynasty has already perished, the mandate of heaven has changed hands. Why do you persist like this, seeking your own death?" Jun Su said, "The affairs of the world are beyond a woman's understanding." With that, he shot his wife with an arrow.
Jun Su also knew that things were bound to fail, but he insisted on remaining loyal to the end. Whenever national affairs were mentioned, he wept uncontrollably. He once said to his soldiers, "I used to be a loyal servant in the palace, promoted and trusted by the emperor many times. Now that the time for justice has come, I must die. We only have a few years' worth of food left. Once we run out of food, we will know the outcome of this struggle. If the Sui Dynasty truly falls, and the mandate of heaven passes to others, I will cut off my head and hand it to you!" At that time, the people had suffered under the Sui Dynasty's rule for many years. When the rebel army rose, everyone saw hope. However, Jun Su was skilled in leading the army, and none of his subordinates betrayed him. Over a year later, some people outside the city secretly sent food, and the people in the city had a sense that Jiangdu (the capital of the Sui Dynasty) had already fallen. But food was still very scarce, the people could not survive, and cannibalism even occurred, leading to widespread panic. A white arc appeared over the government gate, and weapons shone brightly at night. A month later, Jun Su was killed by his own subordinates.
Chen Xiaoyi, from Hedong, was ambitious from a young age. In his early twenties, he was renowned for his integrity and incorruptibility. During the reign of Emperor Yang of the Sui Dynasty, he became a minor official in Lu County, known for his integrity and incorruptibility. The county magistrate Su Wei once wanted to kill a prisoner, but Chen Xiaoyi vehemently opposed it. Despite his repeated pleas, Su Wei remained unmoved. Chen Xiaoyi, in a dramatic gesture, stripped off his clothes and demanded to be executed first. After a long time, Su Wei changed his mind, apologized to Chen Xiaoyi, and released him, and from then on, treated him with greater respect. Later, when Su Wei became a central official, he recommended Chen Xiaoyi to become an imperial censor.
Later, Chen Xiaoyi's father passed away. During the mourning period, he was deeply devoted and even exceeded the requirements of etiquette. A docile white deer appeared in his home, and people at the time believed it was a manifestation of his filial piety. Not long after, he was appointed as the magistrate of Yanmen County. During his time in office, he lived a very simple life, mourning his deceased father every day. He would faint when crying, becoming thin and bony, evoking deep sorrow in all who saw him. At that time, the political landscape was chaotic, and the legal system was in disarray. Many local officials were corrupt, but Chen Xiaoyi maintained a strict moral code, exposing evil and capturing criminals. The people praised him as if he were under divine protection. When Emperor Yang of Sui went to Jiangdu, Liu Wuzhou of Mayi killed the governor Wang Rengong and rebelled. Chen Xiaoyi led troops with Wu Benlang to suppress Liu Wuzhou, but they were defeated in a battle at Xiaguan City. Liu Wuzhou then attacked nearby counties, causing panic among the people, who were on the brink of rebellion. The former magistrate Yang Changren, Yanmen County magistrate Wang Que, and others were cunning and deceitful, with many unscrupulous individuals rallying around them, secretly plotting to support Liu Wuzhou. Chen Xiaoyi learned of their conspiracy and wiped out their entire families, leaving the people of Yanmen County too terrified to dissent. Soon, Liu Wuzhou attacked Yanmen County, but Chen Xiaoyi fought back fiercely, securing victory in every encounter. However, with no reinforcements, Chen Xiaoyi was resolved to defend the city at all costs. He sent messengers to Jiangdu for help, but the roads were blocked, leaving no means of communication. Chen Xiaoyi knew that the court would not send troops to rescue them. Every day, he wept in the court in front of the emperor's decree, touching the hearts of those around him with his sorrowful demeanor. After enduring a siege for over a hundred days, their food supply was exhausted, and Chen Xiaoyi was ultimately slain by the commandant Zhang Lun, leading to Yanmen City's fall to Liu Wuzhou.
Zhang Jixun, a native of Jingzhao, was the son of Zhang Xiang. He was highly regarded by Emperor Gaozu when he was young and later promoted to be a military officer in the Chancellor's Office. During the reign of Emperor Wen of the Sui Dynasty, Zhang Xiang was eventually promoted to the position of Sima of Bingzhou. During the reign of Emperor Yang of the Sui Dynasty, Prince Han Yang Liang staged a rebellion and sent General Liu Jian to attack the Yan and Zhao regions. When Liu Jian arrived at Jingxing, Zhang Xiang led his troops to defend. Liu Jian launched a fierce assault, even setting fire to the city walls. Zhang Xiang saw that the people were terrified; there was a temple dedicated to the Queen Mother of the West near the city wall. He ran to the city wall, facing the temple, he prayed and cried out, "What have the people done wrong to deserve this fire? If the gods and immortals truly have power, please send rain to save them!" No sooner had he finished speaking than dark clouds gathered over the temple, and soon heavy rain poured down, extinguishing the fire. The soldiers were deeply moved by his sincerity, and each followed his command. The city endured a siege for over a month until reinforcements led by Li Xiong finally arrived and the rebels retreated. Zhang Xiang was rewarded for his achievements and appointed as Kaifu, and later served as the Governor of Ruzhou and the Prefect of Lingwu. Finally, he served as the Director of the Imperial Canal at court, where he died in office.
Zhang Jixun has been bold and principled since he was young. During the reign of Emperor Yang of the Sui Dynasty, he became the Eagle Strike General, occupying Jishan as a defensive stronghold, in coordination with Luokou. Later, Li Mi and Zhai Rang broke into the city and sent people to ask Zhang Jixun to surrender. Zhang Jixun cursed Li Mi loudly, which infuriated Li Mi and prompted him to send troops to attack, but they were unable to defeat him for several years. At that time, Li Mi's army of tens of thousands surrounded his city; Zhang Jixun found himself surrounded on all sides, with only a few hundred men at his command, yet he remained steadfast, vowing never to surrender. After three years, food finally ran out, firewood was scarce, and they had to tear down houses for firewood and lived in caves. Zhang Jixun continued to patrol and reassure everyone, and no one betrayed him. When the food was completely gone and the soldiers were exhausted and ill, they could no longer fight, and the city was finally breached. Zhang Jixun sat quietly in his office, and Li Mi's soldiers arrested him. A group of soldiers dragged Zhang Jixun and demanded that he kneel before Li Mi. Zhang Jixun said, "Although I am a defeated general, I am still the emperor's subject. How could I kneel before you bandits!" Li Mi was impressed by his courage and released him. Zhai Rang sought money from Li Mi, but when he failed to obtain it, he killed Zhang Jixun, who was just 28 years old at the time. His younger brother Zhang Zhongyan became the magistrate of Luo in the late Sui Dynasty. When the rebel forces rose up, he led officials and civilians to defend the city, but his own subordinates betrayed him and surrendered to the rebel forces. Another younger brother of Zhang Jixun, Zhang Cong, was killed during the uprising led by Yuwen Huaji. The Zhang family has always been loyal and righteous, with brothers who sacrificed their lives for the country, earning the admiration of the people.
It is said that Song Yun, a man from Beihai, had a strong personality, valued righteousness, and served as a captain in Shimen Prefecture. Towards the end of the Daye era under Emperor Yang of Sui, there was a bandit named Yang Hou who led a rebellion against Beihai County. Song Yun followed the troops from the county to suppress him. Song Yun set out on horseback to scout the enemy and was captured by Yang Hou's men. Yang Hou wanted to use Song Yun to persuade the people in the city to surrender, so he allowed him to shout to the city’s inhabitants, claiming that the county's troops had been defeated and urging them to surrender quickly. Song Yun feigned compliance.
Upon reaching the city walls, Song Yun suddenly called out: "I am Song Yun, sent to scout the enemy by orders. Unfortunately, I was captured, but not because I couldn't defeat them! The official army is about to arrive and is almost at the city walls! The bandits are few and weak; they will be eliminated soon, so there is no need to worry!" Yang Hou, furious, slashed Song Yun across the mouth and dragged him away, pummeling him as they went. As they walked, Song Yun cursed at Yang Hou: "You old bandit, daring to humiliate loyal and righteous people, you're sealing your own fate!" Before he could finish speaking, Yang Hou severed Song Yun's waist. The people in the city saw this scene, and not a single person didn’t shed tears and beat their chests, their morale even higher. Beihai County was ultimately saved.
Emperor Yan
The rebellion led by Yang Liang, Xuan Gan, and Li Mi has gained momentum and their power is growing stronger. Yet, in the face of this crisis, Huangfu Dan, You Yuan, and Feng Ciming show no fear; they confront death bravely, sacrificing themselves for their principles. Dugu Sheng, Yuan Wendo, Lu Chu, and Yao Junsu must surely realize that the situation is beyond redemption and that human efforts cannot alter fate. They willingly accept brutal punishment to demonstrate their loyalty and integrity. Although their efforts could not save the nation or turn the tide of crisis, they stand in stark contrast to those who compromise their principles; their honor and loyalty will be remembered for all time. Xuduo and Shanhui embody virtues of kindness and humility, while Ziyi and Songyun exemplify the courage to sacrifice their lives for righteousness. It is indeed true that loyal subjects can be found even amidst the chaos of the nation!
