Yao Qi, courtesy name Zikuang, was a native of Jia County in Yingchuan. He was very tall, standing eight feet two inches tall, particularly handsome and dignified, with a commanding presence. His father, Yao Meng, had served as the Prefect of Guiyang. After his father's death, Yao Qi observed three years of mourning for him, and the townspeople praised him for his filial piety.
Later, Emperor Guangwu of Han, Liu Xiu, attacked Yingchuan. Hearing that Yao Qi was ambitious and righteous, he summoned him to serve as a clerk in the bandit office and followed him to pacify the rebellion in Jizhou. At that time, Wang Lang's proclamation spread to Jizhou, and some locals in Jizhou took up arms in response. Emperor Guangwu personally led his troops there, and the locals gathered to see what was happening. The road was packed, making it impossible to get through. Yao Qi rode his horse, waving his spear, and yelled at the crowd, "Make way!" The crowd quickly parted. When they arrived at the city gate, it was shut tight, so he led the charge against the city and finally opened the gate.
In Xindu, Emperor Guangwu appointed Yao Qi as a vice general, under General Deng Yu, alongside Fu Kuan and Lv Yan. Together, they attacked nearby county towns and recruited soldiers from Fangzi County. Deng Yu recognized Yao Qi's talents and appointed him as a separate deputy general, assigning him two thousand troops, while Fu Kuan and Lv Yan each only received a few hundred men. Deng Yu reported Yao Qi's performance to Emperor Guangwu, who praised him highly. Consequently, Emperor Guangwu dispatched Yao Qi to attack Zhending and Songzi, where he captured territories like Leyang, Gao, and Feilei.
In Julu, Yaoqi accompanied Emperor Guangwu and the generals Hong and Liu Feng under Wang Lang in battle. During the fight, Yaoqi was the first to charge into the enemy camp, killing more than fifty people and sustaining a forehead injury. He merely bandaged his wound and continued fighting, ultimately achieving a resounding victory. After Wang Lang was defeated, Emperor Guangwu appointed Yaoqi as the Grand General of Tiger Teeth. Seizing the opportunity, Yaoqi said to Emperor Guangwu, "The people of Hebei, being close to the border, are skilled in martial arts and known as elite soldiers. Now that Emperor Gengshi (Liu Xuan) has lost his rule, the Han Dynasty is in danger, and people from all over the country have nowhere to go. Your Majesty occupies a strategic location, commands an elite army, and aligns with the people's desire to return to the Han Dynasty. Who in the world would dare to resist?" Emperor Guangwu smiled and said, "Do you want me to force my way through like before?"
At that time, the Tongma Army, numbering in the hundreds of thousands, attacked Qingyang and Boping. Yaoqi and the other generals fought back, but faced setbacks in several battles. Yaoqi then changed his strategy, fought a desperate battle, and killed a large number of enemies. At this time, Emperor Guangwu's reinforcements arrived, and they ultimately defeated the Tongma Army, pursuing them to Guantao where the Tongma Army surrendered. Later, Yaoqi also participated in battles against the Qingdu Army and the Chimei Army. In the Shequan area, the enemy attacked Yaoqi's supplies, and Yaoqi led his troops to counterattack, killing dozens of enemies and sustaining three wounds from knives himself. Despite his injuries, he fought valiantly and ultimately defeated the enemy.
After Emperor Guangwu became emperor, he appointed Geng Kuang as the Marquis of Ancheng, granting him a fief of five thousand households. At that time, bandits from Tanxiang and Wulou attacked Fanyang and Neihuang, and some wealthy families in Weijun repeatedly rebelled. The general of the Gengshi Army, Zhuo Jing, even plotted to lead a rebellion against Yecheng. The emperor appointed Geng Kuang as the Prefect of Weijun, entrusting him with the duties of Grand General.
Geng Kuang led troops to attack Zhuo Jing, defeated him, and executed more than six hundred enemies. Zhuo Jing fled to the mountains, and Geng Kuang pursued and eliminated dozens of his officers, capturing Zhuo Jing's wife and children. Subsequently, Geng Kuang attacked Fanyang and Neihuang, once again beheading hundreds of people, restoring order in those regions. There was a bandit leader named Li Xiong in Ye City, who was a local tyrant. His brother, Li Lu, wanted to rebel against Ye City and welcome bandits from Tanxiang. When someone informed Geng Kuang of this, he initially dismissed it until it was brought to his attention several times. Geng Kuang then summoned Li Xiong and questioned him. Li Xiong confessed and expressed his willingness to face punishment alongside his elderly mother. Geng Kuang said, "If being an official isn’t more rewarding than being a bandit, you can go back and join Li Lu with your mother." He then had Li Xiong escorted out of the city. After leaving, Li Xiong found Li Lu and, feeling ashamed, took his own life out of gratitude to Geng Kuang. Geng Kuang, feeling regretful, arranged a proper burial for him in accordance with custom and restored Li Xiong's original position. From then on, the people of the entire county respected his authority.
In the fifth year of Jianwu, Emperor Guangwu inspected Wei County and promoted Geng Kuang to the position of Grand Master of the Palace. After the inspection, upon returning to Luoyang, he appointed him as Guard Commander. Geng Kuang placed great importance on trustworthiness and loyalty. When he was a general, he never looted the enemy's possessions when capturing them in battle. Once at the court, he was devoted to his country and its people, and loyal to the emperor. If anything displeased him, he would voice his concerns. Emperor Guangwu once rashly went out of the palace with Geng Kuang privately, but Geng Kuang quickly knelt before the carriage and said, "I have heard that disasters often come unexpectedly, and I truly do not wish for Your Majesty to travel privately." Upon hearing this, Emperor Guangwu ordered the carriage to return to the palace. Geng Kuang died in the tenth year of Jianwu, and Emperor Guangwu personally handled his funeral, posthumously bestowing upon him the title of Marquis of Loyalty.
His son, Geng Dan, inherited the title. Emperor Guangwu also granted Geng Dan's younger brother, Geng Tong, the title of Marquis of Jianping. Later, Geng Dan's title was changed to Marquis of Geling. After Geng Dan's death, his son, Geng Shu, inherited the title; after Geng Shu's death, his son, Geng Yu, inherited the title; after Geng Yu's death, his son, Geng Cai, inherited the title.
Wang Ba, who was known by the courtesy name Yuanbo, was from Yingyang, Henan. His family had a tradition of loving literature and law; his father had been a court clerk in the county, and Wang Ba had also been a jailer when he was young. However, he never found satisfaction in being an official, and his father thought he was special, so he sent him to Chang'an to study.
When the Han army rose up, Emperor Guangwu passed through Yingyang. Wang Ba brought his guests to pay their respects to him, saying, "General, you are rising up for justice. Although I have limited abilities, I admire your character and am willing to join your ranks." Emperor Guangwu said, "I have always dreamed of having talented individuals to help me achieve great things; how could there possibly be another like you!" Thus, Wang Ba joined Emperor Guangwu in battle, defeating Wang Xun and Wang Yi at Kunyang before returning to his hometown to rest.
Later, when Emperor Guangwu became the Colonel of Retainers, passing through Yingyang, Wang Ba asked his father to let him follow Emperor Guangwu. His father said, "I am already old and cannot join the military anymore; you go, work hard!" Wang Ba followed Emperor Guangwu to Luoyang. When Emperor Guangwu became the Grand Marshal, he appointed Wang Ba as the Records Officer, and they went to Hebei together. The dozens of guests who had followed Wang Ba gradually departed. Emperor Guangwu said to Wang Ba, "Those who followed me from Yingchuan have all left; you are the only one left. Keep it up! A strong wind reveals sturdy grass!"
When Wang Lang raised his rebellion, Emperor Guangwu was in Jixian. Wang Lang ordered to capture Emperor Guangwu. Emperor Guangwu sent Wang Ba to recruit soldiers in the market, preparing to fight Wang Lang. The people in the market laughed and mocked him, and Wang Ba returned humiliated. Emperor Guangwu immediately headed south to Xiaquyang. Upon hearing that Wang Lang's army was pursuing from behind, those following Emperor Guangwu were all afraid. Upon reaching the Hutuo River, scouts reported that the river had thawed, there were no boats available, and they could not cross. The officials were all quite frightened. Emperor Guangwu sent Wang Ba to take a look. Wang Ba, not wanting to alarm anyone, first went to the riverbank to test it, then returned and knelt, saying, "The river ice is solid; we can cross." The officials were all delighted. Emperor Guangwu chuckled and remarked, "The scouts really talk nonsense!" So they led the troops across. When they reached the riverbank, the ice was indeed solid. Wang Ba escorted everyone across the river. Before everyone had crossed, a few horses went over, and the ice began to crack. Emperor Guangwu said to Wang Ba, "We were able to cross the river safely because of your efforts!" Wang Ba humbly replied, "This is due to your noble character and the blessings of the divine. Even if it were akin to the auspicious signs King Wu encountered when he saw a white fish, it can't compare to this time." Emperor Guangwu said to the officials, "Wang Ba has achieved great things with his talents, truly a divine sign of good fortune!" So Wang Ba was appointed as the Military Commander and given the title of Marquis of Guannei. In Xindu, Emperor Guangwu dispatched troops to assault Handan. Wang Ba pursued and defeated Wang Lang, seizing his seal and sash. Ultimately, he was granted the title of Marquis of Xiang.
Legend has it that starting from Pinghebei, Wu Han often stationed with Zang Gong and Fu Jun. He was especially good at comforting soldiers. For those soldiers who died in battle, he would take off their clothes to collect their bodies; for the wounded soldiers, he personally took care of them. Later, Emperor Guangwu Liu Xiu ascended to the throne. Because he knew that Wu Han was good at warfare and cared for his soldiers, he was capable of independent command. He appointed him as a general, entrusted him with the command of the troops led by Zang Gong and Fu Jun, and appointed Zang Gong and Fu Jun as cavalry lieutenants. In the second year of Jianwu, Wu Han was promoted to the title of Marquis of Fubo.
In the autumn of the fourth year of Jianwu, the emperor traveled to Qiaoxian and dispatched Wu Han and General Ma Wu to the east to confront Zhou Jian at Chuihui. Su Mao led more than 4,000 soldiers to assist Zhou Jian. He first sent elite cavalry to intercept Ma Wu's army's food and supplies, and Ma Wu went to provide support. Zhou Jian led troops out of the city to ambush Ma Wu. Ma Wu relied on Wu Han to come to his aid, so he fought half-heartedly and ended up being defeated by Su Mao and Zhou Jian. Ma Wu's army fled near Wu Han's camp, calling for help. Wu Han said, "There are too many enemy troops. If we go out now, we’ll both take heavy losses. It is better to hold our ground!" So he firmly closed the camp gates and defended without engaging. The officers in the camp were eager to go out and help. Wu Han said, "Su Mao's troops are elite and numerous, my soldiers are losing morale, and the captive general’s army depends on us. If the two armies do not cooperate well, it would lead to certain defeat. Now, by firmly closing the camp gates and feigning inaction, the enemy will likely take advantage of this; if the captive general sees that we are not rescuing, they will fight fiercely on their own. This way, Su Mao's army will become exhausted, and we can then launch a counterattack and defeat them."
Su Mao and Zhou Jian both sent troops to attack Ma Wu. After a fierce battle, there was a brave warrior named Lu Run in Wu Han's army, along with dozens of others who cut their hair in a show of determination and requested to join the fight. Wu Han saw the soldiers' high morale, so he opened the camp gate and sent elite cavalry to attack the enemy from behind. Su Mao and Zhou Jian were shocked and fled in defeat, while Wu Han and Ma Wu returned to their camps. The enemy regrouped to challenge again, but Wu Han stayed resolute and didn't venture out; instead, he treated his soldiers and enjoyed music and singing in the camp. Su Mao fired arrows into Wu Han's camp, striking a wine jar right in front of him, but Wu Han remained unfazed. The generals in the camp all said, "Su Mao was defeated a few days ago, so it will be easy to defeat him now." Wu Han said, "No. Su Mao's army is mercenary troops from afar, lacking food, so they repeatedly challenge in hopes of a lucky victory. Now we will close the camp gate to boost morale; this is what is known as 'winning without fighting,' which is the best strategy." Since Su Mao and Zhou Jian couldn't win, they withdrew their troops to their camp. That night, Zhou Jian's nephew, Zhou Song, rebelled, closed the city gates to resist Su Mao, and Su Mao and Zhou Jian fled, while Zhou Song opened the gates and surrendered.
In the spring of five years before Christ, the emperor dispatched the Grand Master of the Palace with his decree, appointing Geng Ba as the General of the Expedition against the Lu. The following year, Geng Ba stationed at Xin'an to oversee agricultural efforts; two years later, he stationed at Hangu Pass for farming. He also pacified the bandits in Xingyang and Zhongmou, dealing with these bandits.
In 9 BCE, Geng Ba, along with Wu Han, Wang Chang, Zhu You, and Hou Jin, led over fifty thousand troops to attack Jia Lan and Min Kan under Lu Fang in Gaoliu. The Xiongnu also sent troops to support Lu Fang, and the Han army faced rainy weather, which made the battle quite challenging. Wu Han returned to Luoyang, and the Emperor ordered Zhu You to be stationed in Changshan, Wang Chang in Zhuojun, and Hou Jin in Yuyang respectively. The Emperor also specially issued an edict appointing Geng Ba as the Governor of Shanggu, allowing him to continue leading troops specifically tasked with capturing Xiongnu without being confined to county boundaries. The following year, Geng Ba, along with Wu Han and four other generals, led a total of sixty thousand troops to once again attack Jia Lan in Gaoliu. The Emperor also ordered Geng Ba and the Yuyang Prefect, Chen Dan, to serve as the vanguard for the entire army. The Xiongnu's Left Southern General arrived with several thousand cavalry to support Jia Lan, and Geng Ba and his troops fought several battles with the Xiongnu at Pingcheng, defeating them and pursuing them beyond the frontier, killing hundreds of enemy leaders. Geng Ba and the other generals returned to Yanmen and joined forces with Du Mao, the General of the Valiant Cavalry, to attack the counties of Yin You and Fanzhi under Lu Fang, but they were unable to capture them.
In the thirteenth year BCE, Geng Ba's fiefdom and household increased, and he was granted the title of Xianghou. At that time, Lu Fang conspired with the Xiongnu and Wuhuan tribes, frequently harassing the border areas, causing immense suffering for the local residents. The Emperor ordered Geng Ba to lead more than six thousand convicts, along with Du Mao, to repair the Feihu Road, pile stones, lay mud, build gazebos and checkpoints, from Daijun to Pingcheng, a total distance of over three hundred miles. Geng Ba fought numerous battles with the Xiongnu and Wuhuan, gaining extensive knowledge of the border conditions. He repeatedly advised the Emperor to form alliances with the Xiongnu and suggested transporting supplies via the Wenshui River to reduce the hardship of overland transportation, all of which were accepted by the Emperor. Later, the Chanyu of the Southern Xiongnu and Wuhuan both surrendered, restoring peace to the northern border. Geng Ba stayed in Shanggu County for over twenty years. In the thirtieth year BCE, Geng Ba was officially conferred the title of Marquis of Huailing. In the second year of Yongping, Geng Ba resigned from his position due to illness and passed away a few months later.
His son, Geng Fu, inherited his title and was appointed as the Marquis of Wei. After Geng Fu's death, his son Geng Du succeeded to the title. Geng Du married Princess Junchang of Xianzong and later became a member of the Imperial Court. After Geng Du's death, his son Geng Xin inherited the title.
Ji Zun, courtesy name Disun, was from Yingyang in Henan. He developed a passion for studying classical texts from a young age. Despite coming from a wealthy family, he was very frugal and disliked wearing fancy clothes. When his mother passed away, he personally constructed her grave. Once, a local official bullied him, so he rallied a group to take revenge on the official. Initially seen as honest, the townsfolk eventually grew fearful of him.
Later, Emperor Guangwu defeated Wang Xun and others. When passing through Yingyang, Ji Zun took the county documents to see Emperor Guangwu several times. Emperor Guangwu admired his appearance and appointed him as a historian. Later, he followed Emperor Guangwu to suppress the rebellion in Hebei and served as a quartermaster. When one of his subordinates committed an offense, Ji Zun executed him in accordance with military law. Emperor Guangwu was furious and ordered Ji Zun's arrest. At this time, the registrar Chen Fu quickly persuaded Emperor Guangwu, saying, "You have always wanted strict discipline in the army, and now Ji Zun strictly enforces military law, isn't this exactly what you wanted?" Emperor Guangwu thought it made sense and pardoned Ji Zun, appointing him as a general to eliminate traitors. Emperor Guangwu said to the generals and soldiers, "Let this serve as a warning! I would execute my own son for a crime, let alone any of you!" Not long after, Ji Zun was promoted to deputy general and participated in suppressing the rebellion in Hebei, and was ennobled as a marquis for his military achievements.
In the spring of the second year of Jianwu, Ji Zun was appointed as the General for Conquering Barbarians and ennobled as the Marquis of Yingyang. He, along with the Grand General Jing Dan, the Great General Zhu You, the Loyal General Wang Chang, the Cavalry Captain Wang Liang, and others entered Jiguan, heading south to suppress the barbarian rebels in Hongnong, Yanxin, and Bohua. During the battle, an arrow hit Ji Zun's mouth, piercing through and blood flowed. Seeing Ji Zun injured, the soldiers were somewhat afraid and wanted to retreat, but Ji Zun shouted loudly to stop them. The morale-boosted soldiers bravely fought the enemy and eventually achieved a complete victory. At that time, the leader of the Xincheng barbarians, Zhang Man, held a strategic position and committed numerous atrocities, and the court ordered Ji Zun to attack him. Ji Zun first severed Zhang Man's supply lines, and despite repeated provocations, Ji Zun steadfastly held his ground. The remaining rebels from Yanxin, Bohua, and elsewhere allied with Zhang Man, seized Huoyang, and Ji Zun split his forces to confront them, ultimately forcing their surrender.
In the second year of spring, Zhang Man was trapped in the city due to a lack of supplies. Eventually, the city was finally breached, and Zhang Man was captured alive. Before being captured, Zhang Man had previously worshiped the heavens and earth, claiming to want to become emperor. After being captured, he sighed and said, "The prophecy ruined me!" In the end, Zhang Man was executed, and his wife and children were exterminated. Afterwards, Jie Zun led his troops south to attack Deng Feng's brother Deng Zhong, and was defeated by Du Yan.
Speaking of Zhang Feng, the county magistrate, this guy actually rebelled with the emperor's appointment letter in hand! He declared himself the "Supreme General," teamed up with Peng Chong, and prepared to rebel. Four years later, the court sent Du Zun, Zhu You, as well as generals Geng Yan and Liu Xi to suppress them. Du Zun's troops arrived first, fiercely attacking Zhang Feng. Zhang Feng's chief clerk Meng Hua tied him up on the spot, and Zhang Feng surrendered.
Zhang Feng was particularly superstitious. A Taoist told him that he would become emperor in the future! He even wrapped a colorful cloth around a stone he tied to his elbow, claiming that the stone supposedly contained the imperial seal. This gullible Zhang Feng fell for it and rebelled. When he was captured and about to be executed, he still insisted, "There is an imperial seal hidden in the stone on my elbow!" Upon hearing this, Du Zun smashed the stone, and Zhang Feng realized he had been deceived. He sighed, "I have no regrets, even in death!" Other generals were prepared to withdraw, but the emperor ordered Du Zun to remain in Liangxiang to guard against Peng Chong. Du Zun took the opportunity to send his guard Fu Xuan to ambush Peng Chong's general Li Hao, resulting in a major victory at Lu.
After more than a year of battling Peng Chong, Du Zun defeated Peng Chong's army several times, leading many of Peng Chong's men to surrender. Eventually, Peng Chong died, and Du Zun pacified his territory.
In the sixth year of spring, the court ordered General Du Zun, along with Generals Geng Yan, Gai Yan, Wang Chang, Ma Wu, Liu Xin, and Liu Shang, to set out from Tianshui to attack Gongsun Shu. When the army reached Chang'an, the emperor arrived as well. At that time, Kui Xiao was reluctant to allow the Han army to advance into Longdi, using various excuses to stall. The emperor convened all the generals for a discussion, and they all suggested, "Why not delay Kui Xiao, reward his generals more, let internal conflicts arise, and weaken his power?" However, Du Zun pointed out, "Kui Xiao is cunning and treacherous. The longer we wait, the more his schemes and tricks will multiply, and Shu will also strengthen its defenses. It's better to attack directly!" The emperor heeded Du Zun's advice and dispatched him to launch the initial attack. Kui Xiao sent his general Wang Yuan to block at Longdi, and Du Zun led the army to attack fiercely, defeating Wang Yuan and chasing him all the way to Xinguan. When other generals arrived, they fought Kui Xiao, but were defeated and had to retreat to Longdi. The court subsequently ordered Du Zun's army to be stationed in Qian, Geng Yan's army to be stationed in Qi, Feng Yi's army to be stationed in Xunyi, and Wu Han and other generals to return to Chang'an to station. From then on, Du Zun defeated Kui Xiao many times; for further details, refer to "The Biography of Feng Yi." It is said that in the eighth year of autumn, I (or "he") accompanied the emperor on an inspection tour of Longxi. After the rebellious army's arrogance was subdued, the emperor returned east, passing through Qian County, where he made a special visit to General Zun's camp to console and reward the soldiers. He even arranged for the Huangmen Orchestra to perform music until late into the night. At that time, General Zun was already ill, so the emperor personally gifted him a thick mattress and covered him with an imperial blanket. Afterwards, the emperor instructed him to remain stationed at the foot of Longxi Mountain.
Later, General Gongsun Shu sent troops to support the rebels. Generals Wu Han, Geng Yan, and others quickly withdrew their troops, leaving only General Zun behind, who remained steadfast. In the spring of the ninth year, General Zun finally passed away while in service. "Generals die in a hundred battles, heroes return after ten years." Although this poem was not written for General Zun, I feel it is very suitable to express his brave and fearless spirit. Zun lived a simple life, was very cautious, self-disciplined, and dedicated to his duty. Every time he received rewards, he distributed them to the soldiers. He possessed no personal wealth, wore simple, coarse clothing, and slept under a cloth blanket. His wife also did not concern herself with her clothing. The emperor valued him highly for this. After Zun's passing, the emperor was deeply saddened. When Zun's coffin was transported to Henan County, the emperor ordered all officials to welcome the coffin as it arrived at the designated location. The emperor himself wore plain clothes and personally went to the location, crying as he approached to express his grief. When they returned to the city gate and saw Zun's hearse, the emperor wept uncontrollably. After the funeral arrangements were completed, the emperor personally conducted the sacrifices, presenting lavish offerings, similar to the grand sacrifices made by Emperor Xuan for Huo Guang. The emperor also ordered the Grand Changqiu, Yezhe, and the Prefect of Henan to handle the funeral arrangements, while the Grand Minister of Agriculture was tasked with covering the funeral expenses.
Dr. Fan Sheng wrote a memorial to honor the posthumous title. In the memorial, he wrote: "I have heard that wise kings of ancient times valued governance, promoted virtuous conduct, and rejected malevolence. Emperor Gaozu was wise and martial, with profound strategies and foresight. He granted titles, ceded land, shared credit with his subjects, recorded the achievements of meritorious officials, and praised their virtues. While alive, he treated them with special etiquette, allowing them to present matters without needing to announce their names and enter the palace without kneeling. After their deaths, he granted them noble titles and land, ensuring their descendants would inherit these honors forever, and issued edicts and tokens to be passed down through generations. This was indeed a strategy for pacifying the people and securing the Han Dynasty, which allowed it to endure for hundreds of years; even in decline, it could be restored, and even when interrupted, it could continue. Your Majesty, you have been entrusted with the highest virtue by heaven, first demonstrating the rightful path of the Han Dynasty by rewarding and ranking your assisting officials, which aligns with the ancestral system. The General of the Expedition Against the Xiongnu, Marquis Zun of Yingyang, unfortunately passed away at a young age. Your Majesty, your kindness and generosity are evident in your sorrow over this loss; you personally welcomed the coffin to Henan, overwhelmed with grief. The court covered all funeral expenses and generously rewarded his wife and children, beyond count. The treatment of the deceased surpassed that of the living, demonstrating a generosity that could change societal norms and inspire people to do good, shining brightly like the sun and moon. In ancient times, when a minister fell ill, the monarch would personally visit; when a minister passed away, the monarch would offer condolences in person. This was a true manifestation of the monarch's deep grace. This practice had long been lost until Your Majesty restored it, moving the court officials deeply and inspiring all to work hard."
I believe that General Zun devoted his whole life to accumulating virtues and doing good deeds, giving his utmost loyalty to serve the nation. He pacified Yuyang in the north and defended Longxi and Shu in the west, always charging into battle and deep into enemy territory to seize Yueyang. After the main army retreated, he held the crucial position by himself. He was skilled at managing the emotions of his soldiers, never violating the law, so wherever he went, the people lived peacefully and prosperously, unaware of any war. His reputation for honesty spread far and wide, and his integrity was praised by all. He distributed all rewards he received to the officials and soldiers, without keeping a single nice piece of clothing or any personal wealth. His relatives tried to arrange a concubine for him since he had no sons, but he sent her back, believing he had devoted all his energy to the nation and dared not consider personal matters, let alone issues of offspring. Before his death, he instructed his family to transport his coffin by ox cart and bury him in a modest grave in Luoyang. When asked about family matters, he said nothing. He bore a heavy responsibility, traveled far, and only completed his mission after his death. General Zun selected talents based on Confucian teachings, enjoyed drinking and music, and promoted the construction of temples for Confucius, proposing the establishment of the official position of Doctor of the Five Classics. Even in the military camp, he did not forget sacrificial rituals, truly embodying propriety and music, upholding goodness until his death. According to the rules of etiquette, one receives a title in life and a posthumous name in death, with titles used to distinguish rank and posthumous names indicating virtue or evil. I, a humble servant, believe that on the occasion of General Zun's passing, his merits should be discussed, the law of posthumous names carefully examined, and a posthumous name bestowed upon him in accordance with etiquette, showing the country's commitment to ancient traditions and setting an example for future generations." The emperor then ordered that Fan Sheng's memorial be presented to the court officials.
When General Zun was buried, the Emperor personally attended the funeral, posthumously conferred upon him the title of General and Marquis, used a red carriage to carry the coffin, and arranged for warriors and soldiers to escort the funeral. He was posthumously honored with the title "Chenghou." After the burial, the Emperor also went to the tomb to pay respects and visited his wife and family. Whenever he attended court thereafter, the Emperor would always lament and say, "Where else can we find a loyal and devoted subject like General Zun?" General Zun was thus remembered by the Emperor.
Without a son, the family would be lost. My elder brother, Wu, became the Prefect of Jiuquan. My younger brother is named Rong.
Rong is the second son in the family, orphaned at a young age, but he was exceptionally filial and was praised by all. Later, during a time of great turmoil and warfare, when the people were suffering, he stayed by our ancestors' tomb. Every time bandits passed by and saw such a young man with such strong character, they found it strange and felt sympathy for him.
Emperor Guangwu, out of respect for my elder brother, promoted Rong to the position of Yellow Gate Attendant, serving frequently by the Emperor's side. After my brother passed away without leaving a son, the Emperor was saddened and appointed Rong as the Prefect of Yanshi County, allowing him to reside near my brother's tomb and perform annual sacrifices. Rong was exceptionally capable, and during his five years as Prefect of Yanshi, the county was free of thieves. He ranked first in performance assessments and was promoted to be the Prefect of Xiangben County. At that time, the country had not yet been fully stabilized, and thieves in Xiangben County were rampant. Upon taking office, Rong immediately took decisive action against these criminals, eliminated their accomplices, and within a few years, Xiangben County was pacified. The Emperor issued a special decree praising him, promoted him, and rewarded him with one hundred rolls of silk.
It is said that at that time, the Xiongnu, Xianbei, and Chishan Wuhuan tribes formed a formidable alliance and became very powerful, frequently invading the borders, killing both officials and civilians. The imperial court was very worried about this and increased the border defense forces, stationing several thousand troops in each county and sending generals to guard various passes. The emperor held Gongsun Du in high regard and appointed him as the Governor of Liaodong in the 17th year of Jianwu. After arriving in Liaodong, Gongsun Du actively trained his soldiers and enhanced reconnaissance efforts.
Gongsun Du was brave and strong, reportedly capable of drawing a bow that weighed 300 catties! Whenever enemies invaded the border, he always led his soldiers to defeat them and drive them away. In the autumn of the 21st year of Jianwu, over 10,000 Xianbei cavalry attacked Liaodong, and Gongsun Du led thousands of men to fight back. He personally led the charge into the enemy ranks, causing the Xianbei to flee in panic, many of whom drowned in the water. Gongsun Du pursued them all the way to the border. The desperate Xianbei discarded their weapons and fled in the nude, resulting in the deaths of over 3,000 and the capture of thousands of war horses.
Since then, the Xianbei were very afraid of Gongsun Du and dared not attack Liaodong again. Recognizing the threat from the united Xiongnu, Xianbei, and Wuhuan tribes, Gongsun Du sent people to persuade the Xianbei to surrender in the 25th year of Jianwu, promising them wealth. The Xianbei chieftain Pian He sent envoys to offer tribute, expressing their willingness to submit to the imperial court. Gongsun Du warmly welcomed them, generously rewarded them, and gradually earned their trust.
Other minority ethnic groups, such as the Manchu, Goguryeo, and so on, also came to Liaodong to forge ties, offering sable fur and fine horses as tribute. The emperor rewarded them handsomely. Later, the leaders of the Pianhe tribe all submitted to Gongsun Du, expressing their willingness to serve him. Gongsun Du said, "If you truly want to make achievements, then go fight the Xiongnu; that's what counts!" The people of Pianhe all raised their hands, swearing an oath, "We will definitely do our best!" So they attacked the Yizhizi tribe of the Xiongnu, killing more than two thousand people and sending their heads to Liaodong commandery.
After that, they waged war against the Xiongnu every year, bringing back heads as proof to claim their rewards each time. As a result, the Xiongnu gradually weakened, the border became tranquil, and the Xianbei and Wuhuan also came to pay tribute.
Zhang Yong was a man of great integrity, strong character, and striking looks. He always treated minority ethnic groups with kindness and trust, so those minorities respected and admired him, willing to go to great lengths for him. Initially, the Chishan Wuhuan often invaded Shanggu, causing trouble along the border, with the court issuing orders for their capture and reprimanding various states and counties, yet to no avail. Zhang Yong motivated General Pianhe and sent him to deal with them. In the first year of Yongping, Pianhe defeated the Chishan Wuhuan, killed their leader, brought the heads back to Zhang Yong, and the border was secured. Zhang Yong's reputation spread throughout the north, from the west of Wuwei to the east of Xuanfu and Lelang; the various tribes and Yi people all came to pay their respects, and the border enjoyed peace. Therefore, Zhang Yong pulled back all the troops stationed along the border.
Twelve years later, Zhang Rong was summoned to be the Chief Steward. He spent nearly thirty years in Liaodong, with only a few suitable clothes. The Emperor not only appreciated his achievements but also praised his honesty and frugality. When he met the Emperor, he was rewarded with one million coins, three horses, clothing, weapons, and even a house along with all the necessary furnishings. Every time the Emperor saw Zhang Rong, he would sigh and remark that he was a trustworthy man fit for important responsibilities. Later, while on the Emperor's hunting expedition in the east, passing through the State of Lu, sitting in Confucius's teaching hall, he pointed at the house of Zilu and said to his companions, "This is the Grand Steward's house. The Grand Steward, he is my loyal servant."
Sixteen years later, the Emperor sent Zhang Rong, as the Chief Steward, to lead over ten thousand cavalry soldiers to join forces with the Southern Xiongnu's King Xin to attack the Northern Xiongnu, agreeing to meet at Zhuoxie Mountain. King Xin was skeptical of Zhang Rong from the beginning. After traveling over nine hundred miles, they arrived at a small mountain, and King Xin falsely claimed it was Zhuoxie Mountain. Zhang Rong, not seeing any enemies, returned; he was imprisoned and dismissed from his position due to his hesitation and fear. Zhang Rong had a calm and resolute character, and he valued his responsibilities greatly. He regretted being deceived and not achieving any merit. A few days after being released from prison, he fell ill from grief and anger, and died from coughing up blood. Before his death, he told his son, "I have received great favor from the state, but I failed to fulfill my duties and establish any achievements. I am truly ashamed and regretful after death. It is not right to receive rewards without merit. After my death, you must register and deliver all the items rewarded by the Emperor to the military camp personally, to fulfill my wish." After his death, his son Zhang Feng wrote a detailed account of his father's last words. The Emperor had great respect for Zhang Rong and was planning to reinstate him. Upon hearing this news, he was shocked and summoned Zhang Feng to inquire about the illness, sighing for a long time. The Wuhuan and Xianbei tribes held Zhang Rong in fond memory. Whenever they came to the capital to pay their respects, they would visit his grave, wept bitterly before departing. The officials in Liaodong built a shrine for him and conducted memorial ceremonies throughout the year.
After Ji Rong's death, his son Ji Can went to visit the Chariot Commandant, Dou Gu, and followed him to battle the Qiang tribes. He distinguished himself, gradually rose in rank, and eventually became the Governor of Liaodong. During the Yongyuan period, the Xianbei people invaded Liaodong commandery, and Ji Can was implicated as a result of the defeat in battle. He was imprisoned and ultimately died. Many of Ji Rong's descendants served as officials on the frontier and earned great respect.
In short, Ji Rong was a man of integrity, with a calm and steadfast demeanor. He was a formidable figure like the ancient famous generals Tiao Hou and Rang Ju; even they couldn't hold a candle to him. Just think about it: he served as an official in remote coastal areas for a long time, governing the rugged locals there. The tribal leaders had to come with tokens to request his assistance in order to establish trust. Several times, the Hu and Mo tribes had to listen to him on the border. He even slept in border pavilions, put out the beacon fires, and maintained peace along the border for nearly thirty years. As the ancients said, "It takes generations of effort to achieve benevolent governance," and this is absolutely true! Unfortunately, due to one mistake, he died wronged. It's a real shame, all due to the pitfalls of being too reverent to the law!
In conclusion, let's summarize Ji Rong's life:
"He aimed to open the Yan Gate and rule over the icy river. Ji upheld good manners, confronting the enemy with grace. Rong defended Liaodong's western front, and the border officials valued peace."
