Liu Zao, courtesy name Yanxian, was a native of Yiyang in Guangping. His ancestor Liu Xia, six generations earlier, followed Sima Rui in migrating south. His father Liu Zongzhi was the Lujiang Prefect under Liu Yu. Liu Zao was well-read, humorous in speech, good at getting along with people, had a high alcohol tolerance, and could drink a stone of wine without getting drunk. During the Yong'an period, he returned to the Northern Wei court with his brother-in-law Li Yi and was titled Yiyang Zi. He was later promoted to the position of Chief Secretary of the Southern Region, demonstrating exceptional capabilities.
At that time, there were many Qiang people in the north, tens of thousands of households, who exploited the difficult terrain to stage rebellions, and the previous local officials could not deal with them. These rebels had no legitimate standing, which posed a significant challenge for the court, so Liu Zao was sent to be the Prefect of the Northern Region. Liu Zao was sincere and placed great importance on trustworthiness, and all those Qiang people surrendered obediently. Liu Zao registered them and collected taxes, and the court was very satisfied with him. He was later promoted to General Longxiang and Town Commander of Yongcheng. The previous leaders of the Di tribe, such as Xu Cheng and Yang Hei, had driven away the Town Commander, which is why Liu Zao was sent to take over. Upon taking office, Liu Zao arrested and killed Xu Cheng and Yang Hei to set an example to intimi
In the Taihe period, Yongcheng was renamed Qizhou, and Liu Zao was appointed as the prefect of Qizhou, later promoted to the prefect of Qinzhou. The people of Qinzhou, taking advantage of their rugged terrain, were notoriously rough and unruly; some did not pay taxes, and some even harmed officials. Previously, the governors of the states and counties managed from a distance and did not dare to enter the counties. Liu Zao demonstrated his benevolence and credibility, killing those unruly individuals, which instilled fear in the Qiang and Di tribes, allowing the governors to safely return to their posts. Once, during a southern expedition by the court, Liu Zao was appointed as the commander of the Eastern Route. When disorder broke out again in Qinzhou, the court ordered Liu Zao to return and quell the unrest, which he successfully did. Later, he joined General Yuan Ying of Annan to campaign against Hanzhong, defeating the enemy multiple times and advancing to Nanzheng, where they were on the verge of pacifying Liangzhou, but then received orders from the court to return home, ultimately failing to accomplish his mission.
Legend has it that during the emperor's southern campaign, Liu Zao was appointed as the general tasked with subduing bandits, leading four armies including Gao Cong as the vanguard of the Eastern Route. Before departing, he bid farewell on the southern bank of the Luo River, and the emperor said, "We'll meet again at Shitou City!" Liu Zao replied, "Although my abilities are not comparable to those of ancient figures, I will certainly not let the bandits escape and will not disappoint Your Majesty's expectations. When the time comes, I will definitely host the officials with fine wine at Qu'a." The emperor laughed heartily, "We are not at Qu'a yet; let me first reward you with several thousand stones of grain from Hedong!" As a result, he later faced defeat in battle against Gao Cong and was subsequently reassigned to Pingzhou. In the early years of Jingming, the emperor, remembering his past merits, appointed Liu Zao as the Grand Commandant and Sima. In June of that same year, Liu Zao passed away at the age of sixty-seven, and the court posthumously awarded him sixty thousand coins.
His son Shaozhen had no talents, only knew how to flatter others, and particularly loved to drink. He ingratiated himself with Liu Teng, who helped him secure a position as National Affairs Minister. Shaozhen inherited his father's title and gradually rose to the position of Deputy Magistrate of the Province and an official in the Department of State Affairs, but he was later dismissed for errors. In the early years of Jianyi, he was reinstated by the emperor, and soon appointed as Grand Doctor. In the second year of Yong'an, he was appointed General of Anxi and Governor of Hebei. After returning to court, he waited a long time before being appointed General of Chariots and Cavalry and Left Grand Master, and then he was sent out as the Governor of Liyang. He had no notable achievements in any of his positions. During the Tianping years, because his son, the official Hongye, illegally entered the Central Plains and led a group that caused disturbances, Shaozhen was subsequently punished.
Fu Yong, courtesy name Xiuqi, hails from Qinghe. When he was young, he accompanied his uncle Hong Zhong and Zhang Xing from Qingzhou to the capital, and later escaped south. He was very courageous, skilled in martial arts, especially adept at horseback riding, able to ride upside down while gripping the saddle with one hand. In his twenties, a friend wrote him a letter, but he was unable to reply, so he sought advice from Hong Zhong. Hong Zhong humbly declined to assist him. Fu Yong was motivated to study diligently, immersing himself in historical classics, and he had excellent writing skills. He once served as a military guard in Dongyang, later became a military officer in the Cui Daogu city bureau, surrendered with Cui Daogu, and became a commoner in Pingqi. His parents were elderly, and the family was poor, living in poverty for more than a decade. His social skills, hard work, and relentless efforts allowed him to survive. Later, he was summoned by the court, appointed as a ceremonial attendant, and traveled to Chang'an to pay respects at the temple of Yan Xuanwang, the father of Empress Wenming. He was bestowed the title of Beiqiu Marquis and promoted to General Fubo. Not long after, he was appointed as a scholar of the Imperial Academy, later transitioned to an official role in the Ministry of Rites. He was subsequently promoted to the position of Shangshu Kao Gong Langzhong, serving as a junior official under the Grand Marshal. He was soon promoted to governor and appointed as the chief historian of King Cheng of Rencheng, concurrently serving as the deputy left minister of the Ministry of Rites.
Wang Su became the governor of Yuzhou and appointed Shen Yong as General Jianwu and Chief Historian of Pingnan. Prince Xianyi of Xianyang felt that Wang Su was not very reliable, so he reported his concerns to Emperor Gaozu. Emperor Gaozu said, "I have chosen Fu Xiuqi as his chief historian. Although he lacks in appearance, his literary and martial talents are quite outstanding." Wang Su recognized Shen Yong's talents, treated him exceptionally well, and held him in high regard. Shen Yong also gained the appreciation of Emperor Gaozu because of Wang Su, so he worked especially hard for Wang Su, and their relationship was exceptionally good.
General Lu Kangzuo of the Xiaoluan派 and Zhao Gongzheng led an army of ten thousand to attack Taicang Port in Yuzhou. Wang Su sent Shen Yong with three thousand elite soldiers to confront them. At that time, Lu Kangzuo's army was camped south of the Huai River, while Shen Yong's troops were stationed north of it, about ten miles apart. Shen Yong knew that the Wu and Chu armies were known for raiding camps and favored night attacks, so he took advantage of the night to split his army into two teams and quietly positioned themselves outside the camp. He also considered that if the enemy came to launch a night raid, they would definitely cross the river at the Huai River ferry, so he marked a spot in the shallow water. After setting up his ambush, Shen Yong secretly sent someone with torches in gourds to cross to the south bank of the Huai River and placed torches in deeper water. He instructed, "If you see a fire start over there, you should quickly light your torches as well."
That night, Lu Kangzuo and Zhao Gongzheng indeed personally led troops to sneak attack Shen Yong's camp. Shen Yong had already positioned his forces on both the east and west sides for an ambush, launching a pincer attack, which frightened Lu Kangzuo and his men into fleeing to the Huai River. With flames rising on both sides, they could not distinguish the shallow water area and could only run towards the river following the torches Shen Yong had previously placed. The water was deep, and thousands of soldiers drowned or were killed, with Zhao Gongzheng being captured alive. Lu Kangzuo fell into the Huai River along with his horse, and his body was not found until the next morning. Their heads were sent to the capital together. Additionally, Zhao Gongzheng was a cousin of Zhao Chaozong, the governor of Qizhou.
Once upon a time, Pei Shuye led Wang Maoxian, Li Ding, and others to attack the camp where King Chu was stationed. Fu Yong was returning to the prefecture at that time, and the court ordered him to confront Pei Shuye. Fu Yong quietly dispatched a loyal aide to the camp of King Chu, and upon arrival, immediately ordered the outer moat to be filled. That night, he set up a stealthy ambush with a thousand soldiers outside the city. The next morning, Pei Shuye and his group arrived at the riverside, forming their battle lines east of the city, preparing to besiege it. Just then, the soldiers ambushed by Fu Yong attacked Pei Shuye's rear troops from the flank and defeated them. Pei Shuye commanded his generals to hold their ground while he took several thousand elite troops to provide assistance. Fu Yong climbed up the city tower and saw that Pei Shuye had run south for five or six miles, so he hurriedly opened the city gates, charged out, and launched a fierce attack, completely defeating them. Pei Shuye was caught in a bind and had no option but to make a run for it. His men wanted to chase after him, but Fu Yong said, "We have only about three thousand troops, and they have many elite soldiers and generals. They didn’t lose for lack of strength, but because they fell into my trap. They didn't grasp our strengths and weaknesses and were already terrified. Capturing Pei Shuye is enough; there’s no need to chase further." In the end, they seized over ten thousand items from Pei Shuye, including his umbrella, fan, drum, tent, armor, weapons, and so on. Within two months, Fu Yong continuously won victories, and Emperor Gaozu was very pleased, sending envoys to Yuzhou to appoint Fu Yong as General Anyuan, Chief of the Southern Garrison, Prefect of Runan, and Marquis of Beiqiu, with a land grant of two hundred households. Emperor Gaozu would often exclaim, "He can fight when mounted and write battle reports when dismounted; only Fu Xiuqi could pull that off!"
Pei Shuye again went to besiege Guoyang. At that time, Emperor Gaozu was in Yuzhou and dispatched Fu Yong to command the troops, instructing him to lead a rescue alongside Gao Cong, Liu Zao, Cheng Daoyi, Ren Mowen, and others. Just before the army engaged the enemy, Fu Yong said, "Let’s dig the trenches and build the fortifications first, then we can come up with a plan." Gao Cong and the others disagreed, hastily set up camp and arranged the supplies, and charged into battle, resulting in a defeat. Gao Cong and the others abandoned their helmets and armor and fled straight to Xuanhe. Fu Yong alone gathered the scattered troops and made a slow retreat; the enemy chased after them, but Fu Yong set an ambush and pushed them back, weakening the enemy's morale. All four armies were spared thanks to him. When Fu Yong arrived at Xuanhe, Emperor Gaozu had them all detained. Gao Cong and Liu Zao were demoted to the status of border civilians, while Fu Yong was merely relieved of his official position. A few days later, a decree was issued saying, "Fu Xiuqi has made many military achievements previously and can be appointed as General of Yangwu and Commander of Ruyin, concurrently serving as the Prefect of Ruyin."
During the early years of Jingming, Pei Shuye planned to return to his homeland from Shouchun and secretly contacted Xiao Yan, who then reported to the court. When it was time to welcome Pei Shuye, the court appointed Xiao Yan to command the troops, allowing him to enter Shouchun with Yang Dayan, Xi Kangsheng, and other troops. On the same day, Xiao Yan held back his return, and thus Kangsheng and Dayan were both rewarded and received land, while Xiao Yan was merely granted the title of Marquis of Qinghe.
Xiao Baojuan sent Chen Bozhi to attack Shouchun, and they turned into bandits along the Huai River. At that time, the Minister of State, Sima, and the Prince of Pengcheng, Xiao Yan, along with the Marquis of Guangling, Xiao Yuanyan, were stationed in Shouchun. Since Jiujiang had just submitted, the people's morale was still unstable, and the court's reinforcements were still on their way, they were very worried. The court ordered Xiao Yan to take command and lead three thousand troops from Ruyin to provide assistance. Xiao Yan organized the army to advance by both land and water, but Chen Bozhi was defending the Huai River mouth very tightly. When Xiao Yan was still more than twenty miles from Shouchun, he pulled the boats to the southern bank of Runan, using water buffalo to pull the boats, and directly went south to bypass the Huai River. After disembarking, he crossed the river. As soon as he reached the southern bank, Chen Bozhi's army caught up. It was nighttime, and Xiao Yan advanced quietly, arriving at the foot of Shouchun City by dawn. Xiao Xie and Xiao Yuanyan, hearing that there were troops outside the city, went up to the city tower to observe, not expecting to see Xiao Yan. They finally believed it when Xiao Yan took off his helmet and invited him up to the city tower. Xiao Xie said to Xiao Yan, "We have been hoping for reinforcements from the north for a long time; it seems we may never see Luoyang again. I didn't expect you to come!" Xiao Xie ordered Xiao Yan to bring the troops into the city. Xiao Yan replied, "Wearing weapons and armor is meant for fighting the enemy. If we follow your orders and are trapped together in the city, what kind of rescue is that?" So, Xiao Yan stationed his troops outside the city alone, and together with Xiao Xie, he resisted Chen Bozhi and won several victories.
King Ying of Zhongshan went to attack Yiyang, appointing General Ningshuo as the commander, ordering him to lead the army to besiege Yiyang City for the long haul and block the south gate. Xiao Yan sent General Ma Xianpin to gradually advance in an attempt to break the siege. General Ningshuo said to King Ying, "These bandits are brutal and eager for a fight. The terrain at Yashan is crucial; we should occupy it quickly." King Ying hesitated, and General Ningshuo said again, "Opportunities are like gods in the sky, rare to encounter; if we miss it, it’s gone for good. If we don't go today, Yashan will definitely be occupied by the enemy tomorrow, and it will be too late to regret!"
So, King Ying sent troops to fortify Yashan overnight and at the same time sent General Zhang Huai and others to deploy troops at the foot of the mountain. At dawn, Ma Xianpin indeed arrived; Zhang Huai and others were defeated, and the soldiers building the fortifications on the mountain fled. Ma Xianpin pursued in victory, approaching the besieged circle of Yiyang City, and the people of Yiyang rushed out to confront the enemy. General Ningshuo quickly split his forces, letting Chief of Staff Jia Sizu hold the camp, and personally led a thousand infantry and cavalry to the south to intercept Ma Xianpin. He donned his armor, brandished his weapons, and charged into the enemy lines alone; only his army commander, Cai Sanhu, kept pace with him. He charged into the enemy formation, fought valiantly, was struck in the left thigh by an enemy arrow, yanked out the arrow, and kept fighting, eventually defeating the enemy and even taking down Ma Xianpin's son. Ma Xianpin set fire to the camp and fled in a panic.
King Ying of Zhongshan said to General Ningshuo in front of the battle line, "General, you are injured, hurry back to camp and rest!" General Ningshuo replied, "In the past, even Emperor Gaozu of Han didn't let anyone know when he was injured. Even though my rank is low, I am still a general of the nation. How can I let the enemy know that I am injured!" Thus, he continued to pursue the enemy alongside his troops, returning to camp only late at night. By then, he was already over seventy years old. The entire army held him in great esteem. After capturing Yiyang City, Wang Ying had Sima Lu Xidao draft a battle report, but he was not pleased with it. General Ningshuo made only minor adjustments, focusing on the troop deployment and terrain descriptions based on the actual circumstances. Wang Ying was thoroughly impressed after reading it, exclaiming, "Just look at this military strategy—no city can withstand it!" After returning to the capital, Wang Ying received another reward. General Ningshuo already held a baron title, and this time, due to his achievements, he was not promoted further. He was awarded two thousand bolts of silk and appointed Grand Master of the Palace, overseeing affairs in Qinzhou and Liangzhou, taking over from Xing Luan, who was stationed in Hanzhong.
After returning to the capital, he was appointed Governor of Hengnong during his journey, but this was not what he wanted to do. At that time, Emperor Ying was leading a campaign against Zhongli, and he repeatedly petitioned the court to allow him to become a general, but the court did not agree. He often sighed and said, "What are Wen Yuan and Chong Guo worth! Yet I have to be stuck in this county with gray hair." He was genuinely frustrated! However, governing was not his strong suit, and as a result, he did not achieve much renown during his tenure. Not long after, he resigned from the position of governor and returned to the capital and became a Grand Master, responsible for the affairs of Southern Qingzhou, and later promoted to Left General and Inspector of Southern Yanzhou. He could still ride, shoot arrows, and wield a spear, looking quite impressive! By that time, he was already in his eighties, but he always concealed his age and often claimed to be only sixty-nine. After returning to the capital, he was appointed General of Pacifying the East and Grand Master of Rites. He passed away in the first year of the Xiping era at the age of eighty-three. The court posthumously awarded him the titles of General of An Dong and Inspector of Qizhou.
Li Chong and Wang Su wanted to build their graves near his. So, he bought several dozen acres of land there and left a will instructing his son Shu Wei, saying, "This is my forever home!" His first wife, Jia, remained in their hometown. After Li Yong arrived in the capital, he married a concubine, Feng, and had Shu Wei and several daughters. Jia later returned to Pingcheng, having no sons, only a daughter. Feng, feeling empowered by having a son, was quite disrespectful to Jia, and Shu Wei was also unfilial towards Jia, which caused her great distress. Feng died before Li Yong, and after Li Yong's death, Shu Wei planned to bury his father in Beima Mountain according to his wishes. Jia suspected that Shu Wei wanted to bury Feng with Li Yong, so she requested that Li Yong be buried in Beiqiu County, where he had been granted the title of Marquis. This matter was reported to the Minister of Works, Hu Guozhen, who had once fought alongside Li Yong and greatly admired his aspirations, so he agreed to Shu Wei's request.
Consequently, Jia went to report to Empress Ling, who sided with Jia. This issue reached the court, and Hu Guozhen could no longer maintain his stance. In the end, Li Yong was laid to rest at Dongqing River. Decades earlier, Li Yong had constructed a tomb for himself in his hometown and buried his parents there. Jia insisted on relocating him here to share a burial, and Li Yong's relatives were powerless to stop it. Decades later, the coffin had become tightly entwined with the roots of mulberry and jujube trees, only about a foot above the ground, extremely secure. People had to use axes to sever the roots before they could dig the coffin out of the earth, which struck everyone as quite strange at the time. Less than three years later, Uncle Wei passed away.
Uncle Wei from the Fu family became the chief clerk of the province at just nine years old; he was truly impressive even as a child. When he grew up, he was immensely strong, capable of drawing a three-hundred-pound bow, shooting arrows on horseback, and excelled at racing against others on horseback. People at the time considered him a formidable warrior with outstanding martial prowess, but unfortunately, he lacked literary talent. Later, in the Zhengguang era, his son Fu Feng succeeded him in his title.
Let's talk about Fu Shuyan, who hails from Qinghe. If we trace back seven generations, we find his ancestor named Fu Zhu. His son, Fu Gou, served as the Grand Preceptor during Shi Hu's reign. His grandfather, Fu Rong, migrated to the banks of the Yellow River and settled in Panyang, where he was well-respected and known for his generosity. He had three sons: Fu Lingqing, Fu Linggen, and Fu Lingyue, all of whom were talented. Fu Rong was particularly proud, believing that his three sons were destined to become great figures. He would often say, "Last night, I dreamt of a fine horse that no one could ride. Someone asked, 'How can we find someone to ride it?' Another person replied, 'Only Fu Lingqing can ride this horse.' I also dreamt of a bow that no one could string. Someone said, 'Only Fu Linggen can draw this bow.' I saw several documents that no one could understand. Someone replied, 'Only Fu Lingyue can make sense of these documents.'" Fu Rong was implying that his three sons were skilled in both civil and military matters. He secretly told the villagers, "Have you heard? The locusts have given birth to three spirits. This is a sign of destiny!" Those who loved a good story took him at his word, so many brave and talented warriors flocked to him. Liu Jun dispatched Xiao Bin and Wang Xuanmo to lay siege to Kou Qiaozuo. At that time, Fu Rong had recently passed away, but Wang Xuanmo insisted on appointing Lingqing as the commander. When preparing to attack the city, the siege engines were set ablaze by the city's defenders. Fearing military punishment, Lingqing pretended to be gravely injured, had his men carry him back to camp, and then made a secret escape with dozens of warriors. Xiao Bin and Wang Xuanmo ordered their men to pursue him.
The subordinates advised the leaders, saying, "The Lingqing brothers are all very formidable, and the troops under their command are all brave and skilled warriors, like Peng Chao and Hu Sheng. They are heroes capable of taking on ten foes single-handedly, with unerring accuracy in their archery. We shouldn't push too hard. It's better to take it slow." Wang Xuanmu finally called off the pursuit. Meanwhile, after Lingqing returned home, he and his two brothers hid in the mountains. At this time, Lingqing's uncle Qian'ai was currently serving as a military officer under Xiao Bin. Xiao Bin sent Qian'ai to trick Lingqing out, using a waist knife as a covert signal, quietly dispatching strong soldiers to follow, unbeknownst to Qian'ai, Xiao Bin intended to kill Lingqing. Qian'ai found Lingqing, and shortly after they sat down, the soldiers sent by Xiao Bin captured Lingqing and killed him on the spot. Before his death, Lingqing bid farewell to his mother, Cui, saying, "The military officer killed me; do not forget to avenge me!" Ling Gen and Ling Yue fled to the Hebei region. Ling Yue arrived in the capital, and Emperor Gaozong found him to be quite remarkable. Ling Yue analyzed to the emperor that the common people were eager to submit to the court, and Qingzhou would soon be pacified. Emperor Gaozong was overjoyed by this news. Therefore, he appointed Ling Yue as the General of Zhenyuan, the Governor of Qingzhou, and the Lord of Beiqiu City, and sent him to defend Yanglan City; Ling Gen became the Deputy General of Linqi and guarded Mingqian Fortress. After arriving in the north, Ling Yue's mother Cui was pardoned. Emperor Liu Jun feared that Ling Yue might stir up trouble along the border, affecting Qingzhou, Qizhou, and other places, so he sent Ling Yue's uncle Yan to Jizhou as a magistrate and sent Qian'ai to Leling as the prefect. Leling and Yanglan were situated across the river from each other. Liu Jun instructed Yan to send his students and one of Ling Yue's maidservants to pose as a couple to entice Ling Yue into surrendering. Longing for his mother after a long separation, Ling Yue planned with Ling Gen to escape south together.
Ling Yue and the garrison of Yanglan City fought, and Qian Ai sent a boat to support him, allowing Ling Yue to escape. Ling Gen did not make it in time to cross the river with Ling Yue and was discovered by the people of Lin Qi and killed. Qian Ai went out of the city to meet Ling Yue and asked why Ling Gen did not arrive on time. Ling Yue said nothing, only replied that he didn't know what had happened. Qian Ai did not think he was acting suspiciously and had someone fetch a set of black leather clothes for Ling Yue to change into. Ling Yue said he did not need to. Qian Ai said, "Are you really going to meet Yuan Hu dressed like that?" (Yuan Hu was the governor at the time). Ling Yue loudly said, "Yuan Gong! Yuan Gong! It would be more appropriate to wear these clothes to meet the southern Emperor; how could I wear them to meet Yuan Hu!" Ultimately, he still refused to change clothes.
When they arrived in Danyang, Emperor Liu Jun welcomed him warmly, appointing him as an Assistant Minister, Sima of Yanzhou, while also serving as the Prefect of Lu County. Qian Ai was also promoted, becoming the Sima of Qingzhou and Jizhou, while also serving as the Prefect of Wei County. Later, both of them returned to Jiankang. Ling Yue had always been intent on avenging his brother, and Qian Ai never suspected him at first. Ling Yue knew that Qian Ai liked to eat chicken and sunflower sprouts, so he purposely prepared a dish for him, lacing it with poison. After finishing the meal, Qian Ai collapsed and died.
Goodness, after a few years, Fu Lingyue became the governor of Taiyuan, stationed at Shengcheng. Later, he rebelled alongside Liu Jun's son, Liu Zixun, who appointed him as the general of the army. As a result, Liu Zixun lost the battle, and Fu Lingyue's army was defeated and captured by Wang Guang, a commander serving Liu Yu. Fu Lingyue shouted, "I am Fu Lingyue! Why don't you hurry up and kill me since you've caught a criminal!" Wang Guang did not kill him but escorted him to Liu Yu's assistant, Sima Liu Xuan. Liu Xuan personally interrogated him, asking why he rebelled. Fu Lingyue replied, "There are many people rising up across the world; I am not the only one!" Liu Xuan asked him again, "Among those who resist, none can escape the fate of being captured. The emperor has been very lenient with them and has trusted them. Why didn't you come back earlier and instead chose to flee to the countryside as a fugitive?" Fu Lingyue answered, "Xue Gong raised an army in Huaibei and shocked the world, yet he could not monopolize power, leaving matters to his nephews, and that is the reason for his failure. However, I have participated in this matter from beginning to end; everyone must die once in their lifetime, and I truly have no shame in asking to live." Liu Xuan was impressed by his spirit and sent him to Jiankang. Liu Yu wanted to spare his life, but Fu Lingyue stayed steadfast and refused to change his mind, and in the end, Liu Yu still executed him.
Fu Lingyue's son was called Fu Shuyan, and he inherited his father's resolute and fierce spirit. When he arrived at the court, the Prince of Zhennan, Xiao Su, immediately took notice of him, greatly admiring his father's loyalty and righteousness, and treated him with special respect, promoting him to be a military strategist. Following Xiao Su into battle, he consistently achieved military successes and gradually rose to the positions of Director of Affairs, Infantry Captain, and Left Zhonglang General, often leading troops into battle, campaigning east and west throughout the region. By the time of Emperor Shizong, he was appointed as the General of Jianwu to quell the bandits in Yangzhou. He defeated the bandits and continued to garrison Hefei, where he gained the allegiance of several thousand households.
Later, the Di people in Wuxing, led by Yang Jiyi, rebelled and supported his nephew Yang Shaoxian as their chief, attacking and laying siege to Guancheng. The Governor of Liangzhou, Xing Luan, sent Fu Shuyan to suppress them. Yang Jiyi's army resisted stubbornly, defeating Fu Shuyan several times. Fu Shuyan pursued them and eventually captured Wuxing. He returned to Luoyang, where the court appointed him to a higher position and made him acting Governor of Nanyanzhou. Fu Shuyan was adept at winning over the populace, and many in the south submitted to him.
He was appointed as General of Zhaowu and Governor of Yizhou. Because Yizhou was newly established and located in a remote area near the Ba and Lao territories, the court gave him 300 elite soldiers as guards and promoted him to Champion General. Later, when Gao Zhao attacked Shu, he was temporarily appointed as General of Conquering the Barbarians by Shuyan, granting him military authority to lead 30,000 infantry to subdue the northern Ba region.
Upon hearing that the Wei army was advancing westward, Shuyan dispatched his subordinate Ningzhou Governor Ren Taihong to secretly enter the northern part of Yizhou from Yinping, attempting to sow discord in the Di and Shu regions and cut off the Wei army's supply lines. He took advantage of the opportunity when Emperor Xiaowen of Wei passed away, causing the court to temporarily suspend military operations, and incited the local people to swiftly seize the military fortresses of Dongluo and Chekou. Ren Taihong also falsely claimed that a large Southern Dynasties army was on the way, causing the Di and Shu populace to believe it and join the rebellion. Ren Taihong led thousands of Di and Shu soldiers to besiege Guancheng, prompting General Shuyan to dispatch General Cheng Xingsun of Ningshuo to suppress them.
When the army arrived at Baihu, Ren Taihong dispatched his general Ren Shuo Bei and others to lead a thousand men to secure the advantageous terrain and hold their ground. They established three encampments on the southern slopes of Hujing. General Cheng Xingsun divided his troops to attack, defeating them in detail. Ren Taihong then dispatched military commander Bian Zhao and others to lead three thousand Di and Shu soldiers to launch a fierce attack on Cheng Xingsun's camp. Cheng Xingsun fought desperately but was ultimately struck by a flying arrow and died in battle. General Shuyanjun sent commanders Jiang Xi and Ji Yuandu to secretly infiltrate from the east and then circle around from the west to attack Ren Taihong's rear, achieving a decisive victory by encircling and slaying Bian Zhao and Ren Taihong's vanguard leader Wang Longhu. At this point, Ren Taihong and the garrison of the five camps in Guancheng were thrown into disarray and fled.
General Shuyanjun was renowned for his integrity and disdain for wealth. Aside from his basic needs, he dedicated his salary and provisions to reward the soldiers and alleviate their burdens. He governed the Shu region with benevolence and integrity, maintaining peace and security for the people, never seeking small gains. If anyone plundered the people of Shu, he would return them to their homeland. He was strict with himself and disciplined his subordinates, earning the utmost respect from local officials. Ethnic minorities from near and far came to pay their respects to him, admiring his virtuous governance, and many wanted to become subjects of the Wei state. As a result, petitions from the people of Shu requesting him to lead troops and garrison there flooded in, which Emperor Wei Shizong greatly appreciated.
During the time of Emperor Wei Suzong, he repeatedly requested to resign from the position of Governor of Yizhou, and eventually the court appointed Yuan Fasi as his successor. The people of Yizhou bid him farewell, weeping as they followed him for hundreds of miles. Upon arriving in Luoyang, he was appointed as the General of Vanquishing Enemies and Grand Minister of the Interior. Xiao Yan sent General Zhao Zuyue to station at Xiashi, casting a shadow over Shouchun. General Zhen Nan Cui Liang went to campaign against him, and the court appointed General Shuyanjun as the bearer of the imperial edict and Commander of the Zhen Nan Army.
As soon as the monk arrived, the common people were in trouble. Xiao Yan sent his trusted General Xin Wujun, Zhang Qi, the Governor of Hengzhou, to take advantage of the people's discontent with the monk and attacked Jinshou, successfully capturing several military strongholds like Jameng and Xiaojian, ultimately surrounding the city. When the court saw that trouble had arisen on the southwestern border, they quickly sent a fast horse to summon Shuyan from Huainan. When he arrived, Shuyan was immediately appointed as Right General and Governor of Yizhou, and was soon promoted to several titles, including Sanqi Changshi, General of Pingxi, Acting General of Anxi, and Commander of the Western Expedition, leading three thousand infantry and cavalry to fight Zhang Qi. The court also issued over a thousand copper seals, allowing officials below the sixth rank to use these seals for temporary appointments.
As soon as Shuyan set off, he arrived in Liangzhou, where Xiao Yan's Champion General Gou Dao, Governor of Liangzhou Wang Taihong, and over a dozen other generals were blocking the way. As a result, within three days, Shuyan covered over two hundred miles without removing his armor, winning nine consecutive battles. Local militias led by Xi Guangdu set ambushes to attack the enemy and even beheaded Wang Taihong and Xiao Yan's General of Capturing Enemies, Yang Fuxi. Seeing the situation deteriorate, Zhang Qi hurriedly fled westward to Jameng. The people of Shu were thrilled to hear that Shuyan had become governor, with hundreds coming to welcome him every day. When Shuyan arrived in Yizhou, the people east of Baishui were living peacefully and happily.
First, General Xin Yi and Commander Yang Xingqi from Xiaoyan's side launched an assault, while General Li Guangzong marched to seize the old city of Baishui. The Emperor promptly dispatched General Qiang Qiu and Prince Yang Taichi of Yinping, along with over a thousand men, who secretly crossed the Baishui River at night and launched an attack early the next morning, decisively defeating the enemy, beheading Yang Xingqi, and reclaiming the old city. Next, he sent Commander Fu Tanbiao and his forces to defeat Xiaoyan's General Wang Guangzhao in Yinping. However, Zhang Qi remained camped by the Baishui River, harassing the Jiamei Pass. The Emperor then assigned various generals to attack him by both water and land routes.
Zhang Qi sent his General Fei Xin with two thousand infantry and cavalry to resist, but our commander Chen Hongqi fought bravely, defeated them, and pursued them all the way to the three barriers at Jiagu. Commander Hu Xiaohu attacked from all sides, breaching all three barriers. Zhang Qi personally led over twenty thousand elite troops to engage us, and the Emperor ordered all commanders to launch a fierce assault. Commander Xu Chang beheaded Xiaoyan's General Xiong Xin, Mouxingzu, and Commander Kong Ling, an exceptional archer, shot Zhang Qi in the foot with an arrow. As a result, the enemy was heavily defeated, with many captured. Zhang Qi had no choice but to camp at the foot of Houtou Mountain, while his subordinate Ren Lingchong occupied Xijun. The Emperor again
Shuyan, referring to this individual, wanted to be the Inspector of Jiezhou, but failed. Later, he became the General of Anxi and the Inspector of Qizhou, while still retaining his original title as an attendant. He was later promoted to the Inspector of Liangzhou, retaining the titles of General of Anxi and attendant. The people of Liangzhou were pleased to hear that Shuyan had been appointed Inspector, congratulating each other. However, after Shuyan arrived in Liangzhou, he found a multitude of problems he couldn't manage. His son, Jingshao, was a ruthless and heartless person, greedy and lustful, bringing immense suffering to the people. Soon after, Shuyan was later appointed as the General of the Garrison, overseeing military matters in Liangzhou, Xizhou, Yizhou, and Bajzhou.
Xiao Yan sent the Chief Official of Beiliangzhou, Xi Xiuru, the Commandant Yu Han, and the Administrator of Shangyong, Jiang Pingluo, with ten military divisions and thirty thousand troops to launch an attack on Zhicheng. Shuyan sent his son Jingshao to lead the troops to resist. Jingshao hurried day and night to reach Zhicheng, only to discover that the enemy had already seized the crucial pass of Zhikou. Jingshao realized that the enemy had cut off their retreat, so he fought valiantly alongside generals like Gao Che and Wu He, achieving a resounding victory, taking down over three thousand foes. Xi Xiuru and others managed to flee back to Weixing.
Jing Shao, although somewhat cultured and somewhat brave, was excessively extravagant and indulgent, and acted recklessly, often oppressing the common people. In addition, seeing chaos in the world, he harbored rebellious thoughts, wanting to sever ties with other regions and dominate Nan Zheng alone. He also had his concubine's brother Tang Hulun stir up trouble outside, rallying troops to surround Nan Zheng City, while he planned to attack from inside and outside. As a result, this plot was exposed, and the city’s soldiers captured Jing Shao and reported him to Shuyan, who killed him in a fit of rage. Shuyan fell ill due to his anger over this incident and eventually died. During the Yong'an period, the court posthumously honored him with the title of General Who Conquers the East, Minister of Personnel, and Inspector of Qizhou. When the Emperor ascended to the throne, he was posthumously appointed as a Regular Palace Attendant, General of Chariots and Cavalry, Duke of Siku, and Inspector of Xiangzhou, while retaining the titles of the founding fathers.
The eldest brother was Jing He, and his younger brother was Jing Zhong, both of whom were fond of drinking and wealth, and had close relationships with wealthy and powerful people. Jing He served as the Chief Historian of Qingzhou Zhenyuan Prefecture. During the reign of Emperor Xiaozhuang, he was appointed as the Inspector of Yizhou, as a reward for his father's past contributions. After arriving in Yizhou, he relentlessly exploited the people, indulged in drinking and debauchery, and the common people were utterly disillusioned with him. Later, General Fan Wenchi sent troops to attack Yizhou City, and Jing He surrendered the city outright and was sent to Jiangnan. Later, Xiao Yan felt that the power of King Qi Xianwu was growing, so he permitted Jing He to return home, intending to improve relations. After some time, Jing He was appointed as the Inspector of North Xuzhou, but because of his indulgence in drink and women, bandits took advantage of the situation and attacked the city, causing him to flee. The court arrested him, questioned him at the Ministry of Justice, and ultimately released him in light of his past contributions. He then lived in seclusion at home and eventually died there.
Sanbao, Gan's son, distinguished himself in Panyang alongside Fang Fashou and was given the title Beiqiuzai. Sanbao's younger brother, Faxian, betrayed them when Emperor Gaozu first began his southern campaign, defecting to Xiao Luan, where he was appointed Right Zhonglang General and the General of the Straight Pavilion. Later, he followed Cui Huijing to Dengcheng, where he was killed by government forces. Wenji, Yan's great-grandson, was particularly brave and decisive, demonstrating significant military talent. He fought alongside a general known as Shuyan and earned numerous military accolades, rising from the Strong Crossbow General to the Lord of Langya. The Qushan region surrendered to Northern Wei, and Xu Province's Inspector Lu Chang sent Wenji to defend Qushan. However, they soon ran out of supplies, and Lu Chang's troops were slow to arrive for support. With no other options, Wenji surrendered, bringing his wife and children with him to Xiao Yan. Later, he bribed Luoheng, the Governor of Guangzhou, with a wealth of precious goods from the south, who then assisted him in bringing his wife and children back. Li Shen hailed from Hengnong. His father, Li Hongzhi, had previously served as the Inspector of Qinzhou and Yizhou. Li Shen was bold and ambitious since childhood, gaining early fame. He participated in wars at a young age and was held in high regard by his cousin Chongshen. He climbed the ranks to become General of Weiyuan, Governor of Xincai, while also serving as Lord of Jian'an Fortress. He was later promoted to General of Ningyuan, Governor of Chenliu, and concurrently the Lord of Diqiu Fortress. He regularly earned military honors and was granted the title of Founding Marquis of Changle County, with a fief that included 200 households. He was later promoted to General of Capturing Barbarians, General of Fierce Cavalry, and General of the Straight Pavilion.
Xiao Yan dispatched Zhao Zuyue to seize Xieshi with his forces. Li Shen was appointed as a deputy commander, leading the Yangzhou navy under the command of Inspector Li Chong, and alongside Governor Cui Liang and Acting Minister Li Ping, they launched an assault on Xieshi and ultimately captured it. Afterward, Li Shen was promoted to General of the North and Grand Court Official. During the Xiaochang era, he served as the acting head of Xiangzhou affairs. Soon after, he officially took office, was granted the title of General for Pacifying the Army, and was awarded the titles of General for Pacifying the East and Grand Governor. During the Jianyi era, he was appointed as General of the Guard.
At that time, Ge Rong's rebel forces were very strong, and the common people had scattered. Previously, the Xiangzhou general Yuan Jian's rebellion attracted Ge Rong's army. Later, the governor Yuan Ziyong and Pei Yan suffered defeats and were killed, causing great concern throughout the court, and everyone felt insecure. However, Li Shen remained calm and composed, reassuring the people and soldiers, and everyone followed his lead. Later, Ge Rong concentrated his elite forces to launch a fierce assault on Xiangzhou, but for an extended period, he was unable to capture it. Coincidentally, Er Zhu Rong captured Ge Rong west of Ye City, and the rebellion was quelled. Consequently, Li Shen was appointed General of Chariots and Cavalry, and in recognition of his merits, he was elevated to the title of Duke, with an increase of eight hundred households in his fief, bringing the total to one thousand.
Yuan Hao invaded Luoyang while Emperor Zhuang undertook a northern tour. Li Shen was appointed Chamberlain and also served as Minister of the Palace, while continuing to oversee Xiangzhou affairs. After the emperor returned to the palace, Li Shen was re-granted the title of Duke of Ankang, with an additional five hundred households of fief. In the first year of Putai, he was promoted to Grand General of the Cavalry, Minister of the Three Departments, and Chief Justice of Xiangzhou. He passed away during the Yongxi era. In the first year of Tianping, the court posthumously conferred upon him the titles of Envoy with Special Authority, Chamberlain, Grand General of the Cavalry, Duke of Situ, and Inspector of Jizhou.
His son, Li Shiyue, succeeded him in his title. After the Qi dynasty assumed power, the rank of the title was diminished.
Historical records state that Liu Zao, Fu Yong, and Shuyan (referring to Li Shen) were renowned for their skills in both civil and military matters. Li Shen, known as Shuyan, was especially adept at pacifying the borders and educating the populace, achieving remarkable results. When compared to Liu Zao and Fu Yong, he was certainly superior, wouldn’t you agree? He was truly an exceptional official during the Wei Dynasty. Li Shen defended a perilous city, and despite facing immense challenges, his bravery is commendable.
