Annals of Qi, Volume 1

Volume 135 of the Zizhi Tongjian

Qi Chronicle 1 From the year Jiwei (479 CE) to the year Guihai (483 CE), five years in total.

Emperor Gao, the Great Founder, First Year of Jianyuan (Jiwei, 479 CE)

Spring, first month, on the day Jiachen, Xiao Yi, the Inspector of Jiangzhou, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of the military affairs of Jing, Xiang, and other provinces, and Inspector of Jingzhou; Wang Yanzhi, Left Vice Director of the Department of State Affairs, was made Inspector of Jiangzhou; Xiao Ziliang, Chief Clerk of the Southern Pacification Army, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of the military affairs of Kuaiji and five commanderies, and Grand Administrator of Kuaiji.

Initially, when Shen Youzhi sought to gather his forces, he encouraged the people to inform on one another, and many scholars and commoners were sentenced to hard labor as a result. After Xiao Yi took office, he released over three thousand people in a single day. The ceremonial equipment in the provincial and commandery offices was kept frugal; punishments were reduced, taxes were lightened, and the people in his jurisdiction were all greatly pleased.

On the day Xinhai, Xiao Ze, the Heir Apparent of Jingling, was appointed Vice Director of the Department of State Affairs, and his title was elevated to General of the Central Army, with the honorific privileges of the Three Excellencies.

Grand Guardian Xiao Daocheng, because Xie Tiao had a very high reputation, was determined to recruit him to participate in assisting the imperial enterprise, and appointed him Left Chief Clerk. Once, at a banquet, he discussed the old affairs of Wei and Jin with him, and then said: "Shi Bao did not urge Emperor Wen of Jin (Sima Zhao) to take the throne early; it was only after Emperor Wen died that he wept bitterly. Compared to Feng Yi, he truly did not understand timing." Xie Tiao replied: "Emperor Wen of Jin served the Wei house for generations and would surely have remained a subject facing north for life. If the Wei house had followed the precedent of Yao and Shun, he would have declined several times to appear more noble." Xiao Daocheng was very displeased. On the day Jiayin, Xie Tiao was appointed Palace Attendant, and Wang Jian was reassigned as Left Chief Clerk.

On the day Bingchen, Xiao Changmao, a Gentleman Attendant of the Yellow Gate, was appointed Inspector of Yongzhou.

Second month, on the day Bingzi, Liu You, the Prince of Shaoling, who died an untimely death, passed away. On the day Xinsi, the Grand Empress Dowager of Northern Wei and the Northern Wei Emperor went to the hot springs in Dai Commandery.

On the day Jiawu, an edict was issued reaffirming the previous order that the Grand Guardian need not announce his name during court audiences.

On the day Jihai, the Grand Empress Dowager of Northern Wei and the Northern Wei Emperor went to the Western Palace.

Third month, on the first day of the month, Guimao, a solar eclipse occurred.

On the day Jiachen, the Grand Guardian was appointed Chancellor of State, overseeing all officials, enfeoffed with ten commanderies, created Duke of Qi, and granted the Nine Bestowals. His previous offices of General of the Agile Cavalry, Governor of Yangzhou, and Inspector of Southern Xu Province were all retained. On the day Yisi, an edict was issued that the official ranks and ceremonies of the Qi state should all follow the model of the imperial court. On the day Bingwu, the Heir Apparent Xiao Ze was concurrently appointed Inspector of Southern Yu Province.

Yang Yunchang left Yicheng Commandery and returned home; the Duke of Qi sent someone to kill him. Pan Zhi, the Magistrate of Lingyuan County, had a deep friendship with Yang Yunchang. Liu Chuo, the Prince of Linchuan, was a grandson of Liu Yiqing. Liu Chuo sent his confidant Chen Yanzan to persuade Pan Zhi: "You are an old associate of the late emperor, and I am a close relative of the imperial house. Under these circumstances, how can we be safe for long? If we recruit people from inside and outside the court, there will surely be many followers in our plans. The people within the palace often have this intention; they only suffer from having no one to lead the initiative!" Pan Zhi immediately reported this to the Duke of Qi. On the day Gengxu, Liu Chuo, his brothers, and their associates were executed.

On the day Jiayin, the Duke of Qi accepted the mandate, granted amnesty to criminals within his fief, and made the Stone City the palace of the Heir Apparent, with all regulations the same as those for the Eastern Palace. Chu Yuan, citing the precedent of He Zeng transferring from Minister of Works of Wei to Chancellor of Jin, requested to serve as an official of the Qi state. The Duke of Qi did not agree. Wang Jian was appointed Right Vice Director of the Department of State Affairs of Qi, concurrently in charge of the Ministry of Personnel; Wang Jian was then twenty-eight years old.

On the day Jiaxu, Liu Zan, the Prince of Wuling, died; it was not from illness.

On the day Bingxu, special honors were added to the Duke of Qi, and the Heir Apparent was promoted to Crown Prince.

On the day Xinmao, Emperor Shun of Song issued an edict abdicating the throne to the Duke of Qi. On the day Renchen, the Emperor was supposed to appear before the hall, but he refused to come out and fled under a Buddhist canopy. Wang Jingze led troops in formation in the palace courtyard and used a wooden cart to enter the palace to welcome the Emperor. The Grand Empress Dowager, frightened, personally led the eunuchs to find him. Wang Jingze coaxed and persuaded him to come out, pulling him onto the cart. The Emperor, holding back his tears, said to Wang Jingze: "Are you going to kill me?" Wang Jingze replied: "You are merely going to reside in another palace. When Your Majesty previously took the world of the Sima family, it was also like this." The Emperor wept, snapped his fingers, and said: "I hope that in future generations, I will never again be born into a royal family!" Everyone in the palace wept. The Emperor patted Wang Jingze's hand and said: "Be sure not to worry too much; I will reward the General of the Pacifying Army with one hundred thousand cash." On that day, the hundred officials attended in their places. The Palace Attendant Xie Tiao was on duty and was supposed to hand over the imperial seal and ribbon, but he pretended not to know and said: "What public business is there?" The messenger said: "Hand over the seal and ribbon to the Duke of Qi." Xie Tiao said: "Qi should naturally have its own Palace Attendant." Then he pulled over a pillow and lay down. The messenger, afraid, let Xie Tiao claim illness and wanted to find an acting replacement, but Xie Tiao said: "I am not ill; what is there to say!" Then he put on his court robes, walked out of the Eastern Side Gate, got into a carriage, and went home. Wang Jian was then appointed Palace Attendant and handed over the seal and ribbon. After the ceremony, the Emperor rode in a painted-wheeled carriage, left through the Eastern Side Gate, and went to the Eastern Residence. He asked: "Why is the music not being played today?" No one on his left or right answered. The Right Grand Master of Splendid Happiness Wang Kun, a younger cousin of Wang Hua, had already served as a Gentleman during the Jin dynasty. At this point, he clung to the carriage's otter-tail ornament and wept bitterly, saying: "People are happy because of longevity, but I, an old minister, am saddened by it. Since I could not die first and become a mole cricket or ant, I have had to witness such events many times again!" He sobbed without stopping, and the hundred officials also wept like rain.

The Minister of Works, concurrently Grand Guardian, Chu Yuan, and others, holding the imperial seal and ribbon, led the hundred officials to the Qi palace to urge the Duke of Qi to ascend the throne. The Duke of Qi declined and did not accept. Chu Yuan's cousin, the former Grand Administrator of Ancheng, Chu Zhao, said to Chu Yuan's son, Chu Ben: "Where is the Minister of Works today?" Chu Ben replied: "He is holding the seal and ribbon at the Great Sima Gate of Qi." Chu Zhao said: "I wonder what it is that your family's Minister of Works considers as giving the property of one family to another!" On the day Jiawu, the Duke of Qi ascended the throne as emperor at the Southern Suburb. After returning to the palace, he granted a general amnesty and changed the reign title. He honored Emperor Shun of Song as the Prince of Ruyin, with the ceremonies of honor and respect all following the practices of the early Song dynasty. A palace was built in Danyang, and soldiers were stationed for guard duty. The spirit tablets of the Song house were moved to the Temple of Ruyin. All princes were reduced in rank to dukes; except for those who had rendered service to the Qi house, all others had their fiefs abolished. Only the three states of Nankang, Huarong, and Pingxiang were established to support the descendants of Liu Muzhi, Wang Hong, and He Wuji. In total, one hundred and twenty people had their fiefs abolished. The officials of both the Song and Qi courts continued in their original posts; where titles differed and the number of personnel exceeded the quota, separate detailed discussions were to be held.

Chu Yuan was appointed Minister of Works. The room was filled with guests offering congratulations. Chu Zhao sighed and said: "In his youth, Yanhui (Chu Yuan's style name) established a reputation for conduct; how could he have become so reckless! It is the misfortune of our family that has led to this appointment today. If Yanhui had died while serving as a Gentleman of the Secretariat, could he not have been considered a celebrated scholar? His fame and virtue could not flourish, and instead he has been granted such a long life!" Chu Yuan firmly declined the appointment and would not accept it.

Feng Chaoping, Pei Ji of Hedong, submitted a memorial enumerating the emperor's crimes and faults, then resigned and left. The emperor, angered, had him killed. The Crown Prince Xiao Ze requested the execution of Xie Tiao. The emperor said: "Killing him would only enhance his reputation; it is better to simply ignore him." After a long time, using a pretext, he was dismissed from office and confined to his home.

The emperor asked Liu Huan, a former Acting Army Officer of the Campaign and Pacification Army from Pei Commandery, about the principles of government. Liu Huan replied: "The principles of government are in the Classic of Filial Piety. Broadly speaking, the reason the Song house perished and the reason Your Majesty gained the empire are both due to this. If Your Majesty takes the previous failures as a warning and adds leniency, even danger can turn into safety; if you repeat the same mistakes, even safety will certainly lead to danger!" The emperor sighed and said: "The words of a Confucian scholar can be treasured for ten thousand generations!"

On the day Bingshen, the Northern Wei Emperor went to Mount Gu.

On the day Dingyou, Zhang Xu, the Supervisor of the Crown Prince's Household, was appointed Master of Writings; Chen Xianda, Left Guard General of Qi, was appointed Chief Protector of the Army; and Li Anmin, Right Guard General, was appointed Chief General of the Army. Zhang Xu was the elder brother's son of Zhang Dai.

On the day Wuxu, Xiao Yi, the Inspector of Jingzhou, was appointed Master of Documents, General of the Agile Cavalry, with the honorific privileges of the Three Excellencies, and Inspector of Yangzhou.

The emperor ordered all officials to discuss the gains and losses of government affairs. Liu Shanming, the governor of Huainan and Xuancheng commanderies, requested the abolition of various harsh decrees and trivial regulations instituted since the Daming and Taishi eras of the Song dynasty, in order to promote simplicity. He further stated: "Jiaozhou is dangerous and remote, and the harsh governance at the end of the Song led to resentment and rebellion. Now that a new era of transformation has just begun, we should soothe it with kindness and virtue. Moreover, what it produces is only pearls and jewels, which are truly not urgently needed by the sage court. I believe the matter of punitive expeditions should be temporarily halted." Cui Zusi, a Gentleman Attendant at the Yellow Gate from Qinghe, also submitted a memorial, stating: "If people do not study, they do not understand righteousness; this is the root of rebellion and disaster. Currently, there are officials without official posts, drawing salaries in vain, wasting the people's resources. We should establish both civil and military schools, examine those outside the quotas in the secretariats, departments, provinces, and principalities, and allow them to study skills according to their preferences and categories. If any are idle and negligent, send them back to their home commanderies; those exceptionally proficient in the classics and skills should be promoted beyond the usual grades. Furthermore, although Your Majesty practices frugality, the officials remain accustomed to luxury and waste. We should promote and elevate those in the court who are frugal, pure, and self-cultivating, and demote and dismiss those who are arrogant and extravagant. Then customs can be changed." During the Yuanjia era of the Song, all matters were handled by the commanderies and counties. Emperor Xiaowu (Song Xiaowu) levied demands urgently, and because the commanderies and counties were slow, he began dispatching imperial envoys to supervise them. From then on, envoys traveled everywhere, vying to display their authority, engaging in bribery, disturbing both public and private affairs, causing exhaustion. Xiao Ziliang, the Duke of Wenxi and governor of Kuaiji, submitted a memorial strongly detailing these abuses, stating: "If the central departments need something, they need only issue a clear decree, set a deadline, and then people will naturally exhaust their efforts to complete it. If there is delay, the law for impeachment and punishment can be applied. Now, although imperial envoys are everywhere, the actual collection and handling still depend on the local authorities. They only breed mutual suspicion and resentment, causing further delay and slackness. All imperial envoys should be withdrawn." Liu Sixiao, a Gentleman Cavalier Attendant Outside the Regular Bureaus, submitted a memorial stating: "Since the Daming era, the Song dynasty has gradually shown decline. Taxes and levies have continuously increased, yet the state treasury has become more impoverished. The common people cry out in hunger, having barely any means of livelihood. Meanwhile, noble and wealthy families compete in extravagance, to the point that the people in the mountains and marshes dare not even pick water plants to eat. Your Majesty should renew the state's laws and regulations to correct these errors." The emperor praised and rewarded all these suggestions, and some memorials were handed to the outer court for the relevant departments to carefully select appropriate measures and report back for implementation. On the jihai day, an edict was issued: "The two palaces and all princes are forbidden to establish agricultural estates or manors, or to monopolize mountains, rivers, and lakes."

The Northern Wei ruler returned to Pingcheng.

Wei Luohou, the governor of Qinzhou; Tuoba Muchen, the Duke of Yidu and governor of Yongzhou; and Chen Ti, the garrison commander of Chang'an, were all punished for corruption, brutality, and lawlessness. Wei Luohou and Tuoba Muchen were executed, and Chen Ti was exiled to the frontier.

Another edict stated: "The marquis officials number in the thousands. They accept bribes for serious crimes and do not report them, yet they nitpick and expose minor offenses. They should all be dismissed." Several hundred cautious and upright individuals were newly appointed to patrol the streets and alleys, handling only noisy brawls and similar matters. From then on, officials and common people were able to live and work in peace.

Since the Taishi era, there had been many troubles both inside and outside the court. Generals had each recruited private troops, gathering in Jiankang. Li Anmin submitted a memorial, stating: "Except for the standing army north of the Huai River, all other troops should be disbanded. If close associates need personal guards, a limited number may be allowed." The emperor followed his advice. On the xinhai day of the fifth month, an edict was issued prohibiting everyone from recruiting private troops.

On the renzi day, the emperor rewarded the officials who had helped him establish the dynasty. Chu Yuan, Wang Jian, and others had their titles promoted and their fiefs increased, with varying grades. The hermit He Dian said to someone: "I have already completed the Book of Qi, and the eulogy says: 'Chu Yuan was from a great family, and Wang Jian was the elite of the state; they did not rely on their maternal uncles' families, so why would they care about the state!'" He Dian was the grandson of He Shangzhi. Chu Yuan's mother was Princess Shian of the Song; his stepmother was Princess Wujun; and he himself married Princess Baxi. Wang Jian's mother was Princess Wukang, and he himself married Princess Yangxian. That is why He Dian said this.

On the jiwei day, someone rode a horse past the gate of the Prince of Ruyin's residence. The guards, fearing a rebellion, rushed in and killed the Prince of Ruyin, but reported that he had died of illness. The emperor did not punish them but rewarded them instead. On the xinyou day, the Song imperial clan members, including Yin'an Duke Liu Xie, were killed, regardless of age. The former governor of Yuzhou, Liu Chengzhi, the son of Liu Zunkui, was on good terms with Chu Yuan. Chu Yuan urgently pleaded for him, saying: "Liu Chengzhi and his brothers are not martial, and they are distantly related to the Liu imperial clan." Therefore, only Liu Zunkui's family was spared.

On the bingyin day, the emperor posthumously honored his deceased father as Emperor Xuan and his deceased mother, Lady Chen, as Empress Xiao.

On the dingmao day, the emperor's son Xiao Jun was enfeoffed as the Prince of Hengyang.

The emperor said to Yuan Chongzu, the governor of Yanzhou: "I have just gained the realm, and the Suolu [Northern Wei] will surely use the pretext of accepting Liu Chang to invade our borders. Shouyang is right on the path of the enemy's assault; no one but you can subdue them." He then transferred Yuan Chongzu to be the governor of Yuzhou.

In the sixth month, on the bingzi day, the errant general Yao Daohe was executed for having secret dealings with Shen Youzhi.

On the jiaxu day, the heir apparent Xiao Ze was established as the Crown Prince; the prince Xiao Yi as the Prince of Yuzhang; Xiao Ying as the Prince of Linchuan; Xiao Hao as the Prince of Ancheng; Xiao Qiang as the Prince of Poyang; Xiao Shuo as the Prince of Guiyang; Xiao Jian as the Prince of Guangling; and the imperial grandson Xiao Changmao as the Prince of Nanjun.

On the yiyou day, the Song Shundi was buried in Suining Mausoleum.

Because the population of Jiankang was mixed, with many villains and thieves, the emperor wanted to establish a system of mutual surveillance and verification [fu wu]. The Right Vice Director Wang Jian remonstrated, saying: "The capital is a place where people from all directions gather. If we insist on verifying credentials, it will be both cumbersome and, in principle, lacking in magnanimity. This is what Xie An meant when he said, 'If not like this, how could it be the capital?'" So the plan was abandoned.

Initially, when the governor of Jiaozhou, Li Changren, died, his cousin Li Shuxian took charge of the region's affairs. Unable to enforce his commands, he sent envoys to the Song court to request the appointment of a governor. The Song court appointed Shen Huan, the governor of Nanhai, as governor of Jiaozhou, and Li Shuxian as Shen Huan's Ningyuan Military Adjutant and governor of Wuping and Xinchang commanderies. After Li Shuxian received the court's appointment, the people submitted to him. He then raised troops to hold strategic passes and refused to admit Shen Huan. Shen Huan stayed in Yulin and died of illness.

In autumn, the seventh month, on the dingwei day, an edict was issued: "Jiaozhi and Bijing have alone been cut off from the court's calendar; this is because the mandate of the previous dynasty was exhausted, and they thus lost their way. We should specially pardon Jiaozhou and immediately appoint Li Shuxian as its governor to pacify the southern lands."

Yang Guangxiang, the garrison commander of the Northern Wei's Jialu, requested to surrender. On the bingchen day, Yang Guangxiang was appointed as the governor of Shazhou.

In the eighth month, on the yihai day, the Northern Wei ruler went to Fangshan; on the dingchou day, he returned to the palace.

Hearing that the Northern Wei was about to invade, on the yisi day of the ninth month, the emperor again appointed Xiao Yi, the Prince of Yuzhang, as governor of Jingzhou and Xiangzhou, retaining his post as Commander-in-Chief; he appointed Xiao Ying, the Prince of Linchuan, as governor of Yangzhou.

On the bingwu day, the emperor appointed Chu Yuan, the Minister of Works, as Acting Director of the Imperial Secretariat.

On the renzi day, the Northern Wei appointed Tuoba Pi, the Prince of Dongyang, Attendant-in-Ordinary and Minister of Education, as Grand Commandant; Chen Jian, Attendant-in-Ordinary and Right Vice Director of the Imperial Secretariat, as Minister of Education; and Xun Tui, Attendant-in-Ordinary and Vice Director of the Imperial Secretariat from the Dai region, as Minister of Works.

On the jiwei day, the Northern Wei's Prince of Anle, Tuoba Changle, plotted rebellion and was forced to commit suicide.

On the gengshen day, the Northern Wei's Duke of Longxi, Yuan He, died.

In winter, the tenth month, on the jisi day, the first day of the month, the Northern Wei issued a general amnesty.

On the guiwei day, the Grand Princess Dowager of Ruyin, née Wang, died, and was posthumously given the title Empress Gong of the Song.

Initially, Li Wunu, a commoner from Jinshou, together with Yang Cheng and others of the Baishui Di people, invaded Liang Province. The Inspector of Liang Province, Fan Bonian, persuaded Li Wunu to surrender, attacked Yang Cheng and the others, and routed them. When the Shen Youzhi incident occurred, Fan Bonian sent troops from Weixing, claiming they were going to provide relief, but in reality he was watching the situation. After the incident was settled, the court sent Wang Xuanmiao to replace him. An edict ordered Fan Bonian and Li Wunu to go east together, but Li Wunu urged Fan Bonian not to accept the replacement. Fan Bonian hesitated, and Wang Xuanmiao had already arrived. Fan Bonian then left Li Wunu in Hanzhong, returned to Weixing himself, and lingered there. Hu Xiezhi, the Left Guard Commander from Yuzhang, once asked Fan Bonian for horses. Fan Bonian said, "Horses are not dogs; how can they satisfy endless demands!" He treated the envoy very harshly. After the envoy returned, he said to Hu Xiezhi, "Fan Bonian said, 'What kind of dog is Hu Xiezhi! His greed knows no bounds!'" Hu Xiezhi therefore harbored a grudge and slandered Fan Bonian before the emperor, saying, "Fan Bonian relies on the strategic terrain to gather his troops and wants to monopolize a province." The emperor sent the Inspector of Yong Province, the Prince of Nan Commandery, Xiao Changmao, to lure Fan Bonian, summoning him to serve as Chief Administrator of the headquarters. When Fan Bonian reached Xiangyang, the emperor intended to overlook the matter. Hu Xiezhi said, "When you see a tiger caught, do you release it back into the mountains?" On the day JIAWU, Fan Bonian was ordered to die. Li Wunu rebelled and fled to the Di people, attaching himself to Yang Wenhong. He led over a thousand Di troops to invade Liang Province and captured Baima Garrison. Wang Xuanmiao sent someone to feign surrender and lure Li Wunu. Li Wunu led a light force to attack the provincial capital. Wang Xuanmiao set up an ambush to intercept him, heavily defeated Li Wunu, and Li Wunu alone fled back into Di territory.

Initially, when Wang Xuanmiao was Inspector of Qing Province, the emperor was at Huaiyin, suspected by Emperor Taizong of Song, and intended to defect north to Northern Wei. He sent a letter to befriend Wang Xuanmiao. Wang Xuanmiao’s Chief Administrator, Fang Shu'an from Qinghe, said, "General, holding the heavy responsibility of a province, if you abandon the path of loyalty and filial piety for no reason, the scholars of the three Qi regions would rather leap into the East Sea and die than dare follow you!" Wang Xuanmiao therefore did not reply to the emperor’s letter. When he left his provincial post and returned, reaching Huaiyin, he marched his troops straight through in strict formation. Arriving at Jiankang, he reported to Emperor Taizong of Song, saying the emperor harbored rebellious intentions. When the emperor later became General of the Cavalry, he summoned Wang Xuanmiao to be his Sima. Wang Xuanmiao was very fearful, but the emperor treated him as before. After defeating Li Wunu, the emperor said, "Wang Xuanmiao has truly not failed my recognition of his abilities." Fang Shu'an served as the Grand Administrator of Ningshu. The emperor appreciated his loyalty and integrity and wanted to appoint him Inspector of Liang Province, but he happened to die of illness.

In the eleventh month, on the day XINHAI, the Crown Prince’s Consort, Lady Pei, was established.

On the day GUIZHOU, Northern Wei sent the acting Prince of Liang Commandery, Tuoba Jia, to lead two generals and attack Huaiyin, the Duke of Longxi, Tuoba Chen, to lead three generals and attack Guangling, and the Duke of Hedong, Xue Huzi, to lead three generals and attack Shouyang, escorting the Prince of Danyang, Liu Chang, on his invasion. They promised Liu Chang that he could restore his old domain, rule Jiangnan for generations, and become a vassal of Northern Wei. The Man chieftain Huan Dan requested to be the vanguard, and he was appointed Grand Commander of the Western Route for the Southern Expedition. A commoner from Yiyang, Xie Tiangai, proclaimed himself Inspector of Si Province and wanted to surrender the province to Northern Wei. The Northern Wei General of Le'an Town, Wei Zhen, led troops across the Huai River to respond. The Prince of Yuzhang, Xiao Yi, sent Censor-in-Chief Xiao Huilang with 2,000 men to assist the Inspector of Si Province, Xiao Jingxian, in attacking Xie Tiangai. Wei Zhen plundered over 7,000 households and departed. Xiao Jingxian was the emperor’s nephew. The Inspector of Southern Yan Province, Wang Jingze, upon hearing that Northern Wei was about to cross the Huai River, abandoned his garrison and returned to Jiankang. The local gentry and people panicked and scattered, but soon Northern Wei did not come. The emperor, because he was a meritorious official, did not punish him.

When the emperor was assisting the Song state, he sent the Valiant Cavalry General, Wang Hongfan, as an envoy to the Rouran, agreeing to jointly attack Northern Wei. Wang Hongfan passed through Shu, crossed Tuyuhun, and traversed the Western Regions before finally arriving. By this time, over 100,000 Rouran cavalry invaded Northern Wei, reaching the border before returning.

That year, Northern Wei issued an edict for the Palace Secretary, Gao Yun, to deliberate on legal statutes. Although Gao Yun was very old, his ambition and insight had not diminished. An edict, because Gao Yun’s family was poor and his support meager, ordered ten musicians from the Music Bureau’s string and wind section to go to Gao Yun’s residence every five days to entertain him, provided daily meals, sent beef and wine on the first and fifteenth of each month, and supplied clothing and cotton silk monthly. When he entered the court for audience, a low table and staff were prepared, and he was consulted on state affairs.

The Khitan’s Mohefu Wugan led over 10,000 tribesmen to submit to Northern Wei, settling east of the Bailang River.

The first year of the Jianyuan era of Emperor Taizu Gao of Qi (Gengshen, 480 AD)

Spring, first month, on the day WUXU as the new moon, a general amnesty was granted.

The Minister of Works, Chu Yuan, was appointed Minister of Education, and the Right General of the Imperial Secretariat, Wang Jian, was appointed Left General of the Imperial Secretariat. Chu Yuan did not accept.

On the day XINCHOU, the emperor performed the suburban sacrifice to Heaven at the southern outskirts.

The Northern Wei Duke of Longxi, Tuoba Chen, and others captured Matou Garrison, killing the Grand Administrator, Liu Cong. On the day YIMAO, an edict ordered full military alert throughout the capital and provinces, mobilized troops to resist Northern Wei, and summoned the Prince of Nan Commandery, Xiao Changmao, as General of the Central Army to guard Stone City.

The Northern Wei Prince of Guangchuan, Tuoba Lüe, died.

Northern Wei troops attacked Zhongli. The Inspector of Xu Province, Cui Wenzhong, defeated them. Cui Wenzhong sent Commander Cui Xiaobo across the Huai River to attack the Northern Wei Commander of Qimei Garrison, Long Dehou and others, and killed them. Cui Wenzhong was a clansman of Cui Zusi.

Various Man tribes, relying on mountain valleys as barriers, connected across the borders of Jing, Xiang, Yong, Ying, and Si provinces. Hearing of the Northern Wei invasion, the authorities conscripted all able-bodied commoners. The Man of Nanzhangcheng, Qin Yuan, took advantage of the chaos to attack Tongyang, killing the county magistrate. The Man of Si Province led Northern Wei troops to invade Pingchang. The Commander of Pingchang Garrison, Xun Yuanbin, defeated them. The Man of Beishanghuang, Zhi Mande, invaded Wenyang. The Grand Administrator of Wenyang, Dai Yuanbin, abandoned the city and fled to Jiangling. The Prince of Yuzhang, Xiao Yi, sent Censor-in-Chief Liu Peizhi with 1,000 men to attack him. When they reached Dangyang, Zhi Mande requested to surrender, and Qin Yuan fled.

The Northern Wei general Xue Daobiao led troops straight toward Shouyang. The emperor ordered the Grand Administrator of Qi Commandery, Liu Huaiwei, to forge a letter from the Champion General, Xue Yuan, to lure Xue Daobiao into surrendering. When the Northern Wei people heard of this, they recalled Xue Daobiao and sent the Prince of Liang Commandery, Tuoba Jia, to replace him. Liu Huaiwei was the son of Liu Chengmin. In the second month, on the day DINGMAO as the new moon, Tuoba Jia and Liu Chang invaded Shouyang. Just before the battle, Liu Chang bowed to the troops on all sides, tears streaming down his face, saying, "I hope we can all exert our strength to wash away this shame and enmity!"

The Northern Wei infantry and cavalry were said to be 200,000 strong. The Inspector of Yu Province, Yuan Chongzu, summoned his civil and military officials to discuss strategy. He planned to repair the outer city and build a dam on the Fei River to secure the defenses. Everyone said, "In the past, when Fotuli (Tuoba Tao) invaded, the soldiers of the Prince of Nanping were fully complete and stronger, several times more numerous than now. Yet they still found the outer city too large to defend and retreated to the inner city. Moreover, since the Fei River has existed, no dam has ever been built; I fear it will be labor without merit." Yuan Chongzu said, "If we abandon the outer city, the enemy will surely occupy it. They will build watchtowers outside and long siege walls inside, and then we will be captured with our hands tied. Defending the outer city and building the dam is a plan I cannot be dissuaded from." So he built a dam northwest of the city to block the Fei River, constructed a small city north of the dam, dug deep moats all around, and stationed several thousand men to guard it, saying, "When the enemy sees this small city, they will think they can take it in one blow. They will certainly attack with all their strength, intending to break the dam. We will release the water against them, and they will all become floating corpses." The Northern Wei troops indeed swarmed like ants to attack the small city. Yuan Chongzu, wearing a white gauze cap and riding in a sedan chair, went up the city wall. At the hour of SHEN (3–5 PM), he opened the dam and released the water. The Northern Wei attackers were swept into the deep moats, and thousands of men and horses drowned. The Northern Wei army retreated in defeat.

Xie Tiangai’s followers killed Xie Tiangai and surrendered.

Since the Xiaojian era of the Liu Song dynasty, governmental discipline had become lax and disordered, with household registers riddled with errors. The emperor (Emperor Gao of Qi) issued an edict to Huangmen Lang Yu Wanzhi of Kuaiji and others to reexamine and rectify them, saying: "Household registers are the fundamental basis for the people and the starting point of state governance. In recent years, the trend of fraud has grown increasingly severe; how should this be reformed?" Yu Wanzhi submitted a memorial, stating: "During the Yuanjia era, the late Guanglu Fu Long, though over seventy years old, still personally transcribed books and carefully checked and corrected them. Now, if we wish to govern correctly, we must rely on diligent and astute county magistrates and prefects. In my humble opinion, we should take the household registers of the twenty-seventh year of the Yuanjia era (450 AD) as the standard, establish clear new laws, and universally allow self-repentance and confession; those who persist in error and do not turn back should, according to the law, be sentenced to death; if there is any false concealment, officials at the prefecture and county levels shall share the same guilt." The emperor followed his advice.

The emperor, because the various Man tribes in the regions had repeatedly rebelled, divided Jingzhou and Yizhou to establish Bazhou in order to garrison them. On the Ren Shen day, he appointed Sanba Xiaowei Ming Huizhao as the of Bazhou, concurrently serving as the governor of Badong. At this time, the territory of Qi had twenty-three provinces, three hundred and ninety commanderies, and one thousand four hundred and eighty-five counties.

On the Yi You day, Cui Wenzhong sent military commander Chen Jing to attack and capture Zhuyi of the Northern Wei, killing the defending general Bai Zhongdu; Cui Shuyan broke through Suiling of the Northern Wei, killing Huaiyang Governor Liang E.

In the third month, on the Ding You day (the first day), the emperor appointed the attendant-in-ordinary, Xichang Hou Xiao Luan, as the of Yingzhou. Xiao Luan was the son of the emperor's elder brother, Shian Zhen Wang Xiao Daosheng; he lost his father early and was raised by the emperor, treated with favor surpassing that of his own sons.

Liu Chang of the Northern Wei, because of the heavy rains, submitted a memorial requesting the withdrawal of troops; the people of the Northern Wei agreed. On the Bing Wu day, they sent Chariot and Cavalry General-in-Chief Feng Xi to lead troops to welcome him.

In summer, the fourth month, on the Xin Si day, the Northern Wei ruler (Emperor Xiaowen) went to Mount Baishan; in the fifth month, on the Bing Shen day (the first day), he went to Mount Huoshan; on the Ren Yin day, he returned to Pingcheng.

Since the Jin dynasty, the outer walls of the Jiankang Palace had been made only of bamboo fences, with six gates. It happened that someone opened a Baihu Zun (a type of remonstrance drum), saying: "The white gate has three layers of barriers, but the bamboo fence has holes that cannot be fully mended." The emperor, moved by these words, ordered the construction of proper city walls.

Li Wunu repeatedly took advantage of opportunities to invade Liangzhou. Yuzhang Wang Xiao Yi sent Zhongbing Canyan Wang Tunan to lead troops from Yizhou to ambush him via Jianmen Pass; the of Liangzhou and Nanzhou, Cui Huijing, raised troops from Liangzhou and stationed them at Baima, to attack Li Wunu from front and back in coordination with Wang Tunan, heavily defeating him. Li Wunu fled to Wuxing to hold out. Cui Huijing was a clansman of Cui Zusi.

In autumn, the seventh month, on the Xin Hai day, the Northern Wei ruler went to Mount Huoshan.

On the Wu Wu day, the crown prince's consort, Mu Fei, died.

An edict was issued ordering Nanjun Wang Xiao Changmao to move his garrison to Xizhou.

The defending general of Jiaocheng surrendered the entire city to the Northern Wei. In autumn, the eighth month, on the Ding You day, the Northern Wei sent Xuzhou, Liangjun Wang Tuoba Jia, to receive them. They also sent Pingnan General Lang Datan and three other generals to march on Qucheng, General Bai Tutou and two other generals to march on Haixi, General Yuan Tai and two other generals to march on Liankou, General Feng Yan and three other generals to march on Jiaocheng, and Zhennan General Heluo to march on Xiacai, all to invade.

On the Jia Chen day, the Northern Wei ruler went to Fangshan; on the Wu Shen day, he toured the cave temples at Mount Wuzhou. On the Geng Xu day, he returned to Pingcheng.

Cui Huijing sent Chief Clerk Pei Shubao to attack Li Wunu at Wuxing, but was defeated by the Di king Yang Wenhong. In the ninth month, on the Jia Wu day (the first day), a solar eclipse occurred.

On the Bing Wu day, the Rouran sent envoys to pay a visit.

Runan Governor Chang Yuanzhen and Longxiang General Hu Qinggou surrendered to the Northern Wei.

In the intercalary ninth month, on the Xin Si day, the emperor sent Military Commander-in-Chief Li Anmin to inspect the various garrison posts at Qingkou and the Sishui River to guard against the Northern Wei.

Liangjun Wang Tuoba Jia of the Northern Wei led a force of one hundred thousand to besiege Qushan. The defending general of Qushan, Xuan Yuandu, defended the city tightly. The of Qingzhou and Jizhou, Fan Yang Lu Shaozhi, sent his son Lu Huan to lead troops to assist him. On the Geng Yin day, Xuan Yuandu heavily defeated the Northern Wei army. The court sent military commander Cui Lingjian and others to lead over ten thousand men from the Huai River into the sea, arriving at night, each holding two torches; when the Northern Wei army saw this, they fled.

In winter, the tenth month, Wang Jian firmly requested to be relieved of his duties overseeing the selection of officials; the emperor agreed. He added the title of attendant-in-ordinary to Wang Jian and appointed the crown prince's household supervisor He Ji to oversee the selection. Because He Ji had deep seniority, the emperor wanted to add the title of attendant-in-ordinary to him. Chu Yuan said: "Your Majesty's intent has always been that the sable-tail decorations on the caps should not be too numerous. Your servant and Wang Jian already wear the sable on the left; if we add it to He Ji, then among the eight chief ministers, there will be three wearing sable; if we add him the titles of General of Swift Cavalry or General of Roaming Cavalry, that would not be insufficient." Thus, He Ji was appointed as Minister of Personnel, with the additional title of General of Swift Cavalry.

On the Jia Chen day, the emperor appointed Shazhou Yang Guangxiang as the of Xiqinzhou, and also appointed his son Yang Jiong as the governor of Wudu.

On the Ding Wei day, the Northern Wei appointed Changli Wang Feng Xi as the, together with Zhengnan General Huan Dan, to march on Yiyang, and Zhennan General Heluo to march on Zhongli, all to invade.

The people of the four provinces north of the Huai River were unwilling to be subordinate to the Northern Wei and often wished to return to the south of the Yangtze River. The emperor repeatedly sent spies to entice them. Consequently, people like Huan Biaozi of Xuzhou and Xu Mengzi of Yanzhou rose up in various places as bandits, gathered followers to hold Wugu, and promoted Sima Langzhi as their leader. The Northern Wei sent Huaiyang Wang Wei Yuan and Pingnan General Xue Huzi to suppress them.

In the eleventh month, on the Wu Yin day, the governor of Danyang, Wang Sengqian, submitted a memorial saying: "In the prisons of commanderies and counties, there has long been the practice of using 'hot water' (boiling water) to kill prisoners. In name, it is for treating illness, but in reality, it is cruelty. How can matters as serious as life and death be secretly manipulated by local officials! In my humble opinion, when a prisoner falls ill, they must first report to the commandery office, requiring the responsible officials and doctors to jointly diagnose and examine them; for prisoners in remote counties, family members should be allowed to visit, and only then should treatment proceed." The emperor followed his advice.

On the Wu Zi day, the emperor appointed Yang Nandang's grandson Yang Houqi as the of Beiqinzhou and King of Wudu, to garrison Wuxing.

In the twelfth month, on the Wu Xu day, the emperor appointed Minister of Works Chu Yuan as Minister of Education. When Chu Yuan entered the court, he used a waist fan to shield himself from the sun. Recruitment Merit Officer Liu Xiang passed by and said: "Making such a display, you have no face to see people; what use is covering with a fan!" Chu Yuan said: "A humble scholar is discourteous!" Liu Xiang said: "If you could not kill Yuan Can and Liu Bing, how can you avoid being a humble scholar!" Liu Xiang was the grandson of Liu Muzhi. Liu Xiang loved literature, but his nature was upright and careless. He composed the "Book of Song," satirizing and criticizing the abdication of the Song dynasty to the Qi. Wang Jian secretly reported this, and Liu Xiang was consequently convicted and exiled to Guangzhou, where he died.

The crown prince held a banquet for court officials at Xuanpu. The Right Guard Commander Shen Wenji had a dispute with Chu Yuan, and Shen Wenji said angrily: "Chu Yuan thinks himself a loyal minister, but he does not know what face he will have to see Emperor Ming of Song on the day he dies!" The crown prince laughed and said: "Commander Shen is drunk."

On the Ren Zi day, the emperor appointed Yuzhang Wang Xiao Yi as Zhongshujian, Minister of Works, and of Yangzhou, and appointed Linchuan Wang Xiao Ying as the commander of the military affairs of the nine provinces including Jingzhou and Yongzhou, and of Jingzhou.

In this year, the Northern Wei Minister of Works Wang Rui advanced in rank to Prince of Zhongshan, with the additional title of General-in-Chief of the East. He established a staff of twenty-two officials in his princely establishment, appointed Zhongshu Shilang Zheng Xi as his tutor, and the officials below the rank of Langzhong Ling were all renowned figures of the time. He also enfeoffed Wang Rui's wife, Lady Ding, as a consort.

The third year of the Jianyuan era of Emperor Gao of Qi (Xin You, 481 AD)

In spring, the first month, the emperor enfeoffed his son Xiao Feng as the Prince of Jiangxia.

The people of the Northern Wei invaded Huaiyang and besieged the military commander Cheng Mai at Yongcheng. The emperor sent Military Commander-in-Chief Li Anmin as commander-in-chief, together with military commander Zhou Panlong and others, to rescue him. The Northern Wei plundered extensively along the Huai River. The people north of the river all fled in panic, crossing the Yangtze River. Cheng Mai fought to the death and perished. Zhou Panlong's son, Zhou Fengshu, led two hundred men deep into the enemy ranks. The Northern Wei used over ten thousand cavalry to spread out in a pincer formation and surround them. Someone told Zhou Panlong, "Fengshu has already been killed." Zhou Panlong mounted his horse, grasping his spear, and charged straight into the Northern Wei formation, unbeatable. Zhou Fengshu had already broken out of the encirclement, then re-entered to look for Zhou Panlong. The father and son rode their horses back and forth in a furious charge; the several tens of thousands of Northern Wei troops dared not resist. The Northern Wei army consequently retreated, suffering tens of thousands of casualties. After the Northern Wei army withdrew, Li Anmin and others led troops in pursuit, engaging them in battle at Sunxi Zhu, defeating them again.

On the Ji Mao day, the Northern Wei ruler went on a southern tour, with Sikong Xun Gui remaining behind to guard the capital. On the Ding Hai day, the Northern Wei ruler arrived at Zhongshan.

On the first day of the second month (Xinmao, the first day of the month), the Northern Wei issued a general amnesty.

On the Dingyou day, the general Huan Kang again defeated the Northern Wei army at Huaiyang, attacked and captured Fancheng.

The Northern Wei ruler traveled from Zhongshan to Xindu; on the Guimao day, he went to Zhongshan; on the Gengxu day, he returned and arrived at Sizhou.

The monk Faxiu used sorcery to delude the masses, plotting rebellion in Pingcheng; Xun Gu led the imperial guard to search and arrest them all. The Northern Wei ruler returned to Pingcheng, and the relevant authorities imprisoned Faxiu, placing a cage on his head, but the iron locks inexplicably opened by themselves. The Northern Wei people pierced his neck bone, praying, "If there truly are spirits, let the iron not penetrate the flesh." Then they pierced his neck and paraded him as a warning, and he died only after three days. Some argued for killing all monks, but Empress Dowager Feng did not agree, so it was dropped.

After Yuan Chongzu defeated the Northern Wei army, fearing another invasion of Huaibei, he moved the garrison of Xiacai east of the Huai River. Shortly after, the Northern Wei army indeed arrived, intending to attack Xiacai; hearing that Xiacai had been moved inland, they planned to raze the old city. On the Jiyou day, Yuan Chongzu led troops across the Huai River to attack the Northern Wei, inflicting a major defeat, killing and capturing thousands.

During the transition between the Jin and Song dynasties, most inspectors of Jingzhou did not concurrently serve as Commander of the Southern Man, and another important person was appointed to that post. The Prince of Yuzhang, Xiao Ni, served as inspector of both Jing and Xiang provinces and concurrently held the post of Commander of the Southern Man. After Xiao Ni left office, he was replaced by Wang Huan, who firmly declined, saying, "After the devastation of war in the western region, the desolation is hard to recover. Now, if we further divide and weaken the prefectural forces and set up a separate military post, it will not enhance strength in terms of reputation, but in practice, it will only burden each other. Moreover, financial and human resources are already dispersed, and the number of offices increases, doubling the labor and making paperwork more cumbersome. I privately believe this is not beneficial to the state's grand strategy." On the Guichou day, the office of Commander of the Southern Man was abolished.

On the first day of the third month (Xinyou), the Northern Wei ruler went to Sizhou; on the Jisi day, he returned to Pingcheng.

The rebellion of Faxiu in the Northern Wei implicated more than a hundred people, including the and others, all convicted of rebellion, and according to law, their families should be exterminated. The Wang Rui requested that only the chief culprits be executed and their accomplices pardoned. Thereupon, an edict was issued: "Those who should be punished by extermination of five clans shall be reduced to extermination of three clans; those who should be punished by extermination of three clans shall be changed to execution of the entire household; those who should be punished by execution of the entire household shall only be punished individually." As a result, more than a thousand people were spared death.

In the summer, on the fourth month, the Jihai day, the Northern Wei ruler went to Fangshan. Empress Dowager Feng loved the scenery and mountains there, saying, "In the future, I must be buried here; it is not necessary to be interred in the imperial mausoleum." Thereupon, a longevity tomb was built for the empress dowager, and a Yonggu stone chamber was also constructed on the mountain, intended as a temple for sacrifices.

Huan Biaozhi and others led tens of thousands of followers, holding strategic points and requesting aid; on the Gengzi day, an edict commanded Li Anmin to lead various generals to respond, and also sent the inspector of Yanzhou, Zhou Shantu, to enter from the Huai River into the Qing River, rushing to provide support. The Huai Bei commoner Huan Leiwei defeated the Northern Wei army at Baojigu. Li Anmin's relief was slow, and Huan Biaozhi and his followers were all annihilated by the Northern Wei; the remaining followers who managed to return south numbered several thousand households; the Northern Wei also captured more than thirty thousand people and took them back to Pingcheng.

The Prince of Rencheng Kang, Tuoba Yun, died. On the fifth month, the Renxu day, the king of Dengzhi, Xiang Shu, sent an envoy to pay tribute to the Northern Wei. Dengzhi was a branch of the Qiang tribe, establishing a state south of Dangchang.

On the sixth month, the Renzi day, a general amnesty was declared.

On the Jiazi day, the Prince of Zhongshan Xuan, Wang Rui, of the Northern Wei died. When Wang Rui was critically ill, the Grand Empress Dowager and the Northern Wei ruler visited his home several times to inquire about his condition. After his death, he was posthumously appointed as Grand Tutor, and a temple was built for him south of Pingcheng. More than a hundred literati wrote elegiac poems and dirges for Wang Rui. At his burial, over a thousand people, claiming to be relatives or old friends, wore mourning clothes and wept as they escorted the funeral procession. The Northern Wei ruler appointed Wang Rui's son, the Wang Xi, to succeed Wang Rui as, concurrently in charge of the Ministry of Personnel.

On the Wuwu day, the Northern Wei enfeoffed the imperial uncle Tuoba Jian as the Prince of Qijun and Tuoba Meng as the Prince of Anfeng.

In the autumn, on the first day of the seventh month (Jiyou), a solar eclipse occurred.

The emperor sent the Che Senglang as an envoy to the Northern Wei. On the Jiazi day, Che Senglang arrived in Pingcheng. The Northern Wei ruler asked, "The Qi dynasty assisted the Song for a very short time; why did it ascend the throne so quickly?" Che Senglang replied, "In the times of Yu and Xia, when worthy men were employed, they themselves ascended the throne; in the Wei and Jin eras, ministers assisted in governance and left the throne to their descendants. This is simply because the circumstances of the times differ."

On the Xinyou day, a separate chieftain of the Rouran, Taqi, led his followers to surrender to the Northern Wei.

Yang Wenhong sent an envoy to request surrender, and an edict reappointed him as inspector of Northern Qin. Previously, Yang Guangxiang had died, and half of his followers went to Yang Wenhong, while the other half went to Liangzhou. Yang Wenhong sent Yang Houqi to occupy Baishui. Although the emperor granted Yang Wenhong official rank, he secretly ordered the governor of Jinshou, Yang Gongze, to find an opportunity to eliminate him.

During the Shengming era of the Song, envoys Yin Lingdan and Gou Zhaoxian had been sent to the Northern Wei. Hearing that the emperor had accepted the abdication, Yin Lingdan said to the Northern Wei official in charge of receptions, "The Song and Wei had friendly relations; they should share sorrows. Now that the Song has perished, the Wei has not come to its rescue; what is there to speak of peace and marriage?" When Liu Chang invaded, Yin Lingdan requested to serve as Liu Chang's, but was not permitted. On the ninth month, the Gengwu day, the Northern Wei reviewed the troops in the southern suburbs, then feasted the officials. Che Senglang was seated below Yin Lingdan, but Che Senglang refused to sit, saying, "Yin Lingdan was formerly an envoy of the Song; now he is a subject of the Qi. I request that the Wei ruler arrange my seat according to etiquette." Yin Lingdan then quarreled and cursed him. Liu Chang bribed a surrendered Song man, Xie Fengjun, who assassinated Che Senglang during the feast. The Northern Wei arrested Xie Fengjun and executed him; they sent Che Senglang's coffin back with full honors and released Yin Lingdan and others to return south. When Emperor Shizu ascended the throne, Gou Zhaoxian reported Yin Lingdan's words in detail to the emperor, and Yin Lingdan was arrested and executed.

On the Xinwei day, the Rouran ruler sent an envoy to pay a diplomatic visit, addressing the emperor in his letter as "Your Foot" and referring to himself as "I," presenting a lion-skin trousers and coat, and agreeing to jointly attack the Northern Wei.

The Northern Wei generals Wei Yuan and Xue Huzi conquered Wugu, killed Sima Langzhi, and all the southeastern provinces were pacified. Wei Yuan entered the court as and, while Xue Huzi became the general of Pengcheng and was promoted to inspector of Xuzhou. At that time, the garrison soldiers of the prefectures and towns carried silk as military provisions but did not hand it over to government warehouses. Xue Huzi submitted a memorial, arguing: "The state intends to conquer Jiangdong; it must first store grain in Pengcheng. I privately estimate that the garrison soldiers in this town are no fewer than tens of thousands, and each person is given twelve bolts of silk as provisions; without standard disbursement, the soldiers often suffer hunger and cold before their rotation, causing losses to both public and private interests. Now, Xuzhou has over a hundred thousand qing of fertile land, both irrigated and dry, and the Qing and Bian rivers are navigable, sufficient for irrigation. If we use the soldiers' silk to purchase oxen, we can obtain ten thousand head, initiate military colonies, and within a year, supply the troops with food. Let half the soldiers farm and half garrison, combining farming and defense without compromising border security. The harvest of one year will exceed ten times the value of the silk; short-term cultivation can supply food for several years. Thereafter, the soldiers' supplies will all be stored in government warehouses, and within five years, grain and cloth will be abundant, not only ensuring the troops are well-fed and clothed but also fostering a momentum to swallow the enemy." The Northern Wei adopted his suggestion. Xue Huzi governed with benevolence, and both soldiers and commoners cherished him. It happened that the governor of Peijun, Shao An, and the governor of Xiapijun, Zhang Pan, were investigated by Xue Huzi for corruption; each sent his son to submit a memorial accusing Xue Huzi of colluding with the Jiangnan region. The Northern Wei ruler said, "Xue Huzi surely would not do this." After investigation, it was confirmed to be a false accusation, and an edict ordered Shao An and Zhang Pan to be executed, and their sons each received a hundred lashes. The Tuyuhun king Shiyin died, and his heir, the Duyihou, succeeded. In the winter, on the first day of the tenth month (Wuzi), Duyihou was appointed as inspector of both Western Qin and Hezhou, and Prince of Henan.

The Northern Wei Gao Lü and others completed the revision of the law, totaling eight hundred and thirty-two chapters; among them, sixteen chapters dealt with the punishment of exterminating the clan, two hundred and thirty-five chapters with the death penalty, and three hundred and seventy-seven chapters with other punishments.

Previously, when the King of Gaochang, Kan Bozhou, died, his son Kan Yicheng succeeded him. That same year, his cousin Kan Shougui killed Kan Yicheng and established himself as king. The King of Gaoche, Kezhiluo, killed Kan Shougui and his brothers, and installed Zhang Ming, a man from Dunhuang, as the King of Gaochang. The people of Gaochang killed Zhang Ming and made Ma Ru king.

Emperor Tai Gao of the Southern Qi, Jian Yuan 4th Year (Renxu, 482 AD)

Spring, 1st Month, Renxu day: An edict was issued to establish two hundred students, appointing Zhongshu Ling Zhang Xu as Guozijiu (Director of the National Academy).

Jiaxu day: The Northern Wei issued a general amnesty for the empire.

3rd Month, Gengshen day: The Emperor summoned Sikong Chu Yuan and Shangshu Zuo Puye Wang Jian to receive the final edict to assist the Crown Prince. Renxu day: The Emperor passed away at the Lingguang Hall. The Crown Prince ascended the throne and issued a general amnesty for the empire.

Emperor Gao was profound and magnanimous, with a vast capacity for tolerance. He was learned and skilled in literature. By nature, he was pure and frugal. In the Imperial Wardrobe Treasury, there was a jade hairpin. The Emperor ordered the Zhongshu: "Leaving this object is the very root of trouble!" He immediately ordered it to be shattered. Then he inspected for any other unusual items and handled them all in the same manner. He often said, "If I were allowed to govern the empire for ten years, I would surely make gold equal in value to earth."

Yichou day: Chu Yuan was appointed to oversee the affairs of the Shangshu (Lu Shangshu Shi), Wang Jian as Shizhong and Shangshu Ling, and General of Chariots and Cavalry Zhang Jing'er as Kaifu Yitong Sansi. Dingmao day: Former General Wang Huan was appointed Shangshu Zuo Puye. Gengwu day: Prince of Yuzhang, Xiao Ni, was appointed Taiwei.

Gengchen day: The Northern Wei Emperor went to the Tiger Enclosure. He issued an edict: "Tigers and wolves are fierce and violent. When capturing them, they often cause injuries. Since there is no benefit and the cost and loss are great, from now on, do not capture or offer them as tribute."

Summer, 4th Month, Gengyin day: The posthumous title of the deceased Emperor was established as Gao Huangdi, with the temple name Taizu. Bingwu day: He was buried at the Tai’an Mausoleum.

Xinmao day: Consort Mu was posthumously honored as Empress. 6th Month, Jiashen day (first day of the month): The Prince of Nanjun, Xiao Changmao, was established as Crown Prince. Bingshen day: The Crown Princess, of the Wang clan, was established. The Princess was from Langye. The Emperor’s sons were enfeoffed: Prince Wenxigong, Xiao Ziliang, as Prince of Jingling; Prince Linru, Xiao Ziqing, as Prince of Luling; Prince Yingcheng, Xiao Zijing, as Prince of Anlu; Prince Jiangling, Xiao Zimao, as Prince of Jin’an; Prince Zhijiang, Xiao Zilong, as Prince of Suijun; Xiao Zizhen as Prince of Jian’an; and the Imperial Grandson, Xiao Zhaoye, as Prince of Nanjun.

Sikong Chu Yuan fell ill and took to his bed. He submitted a memorial requesting retirement. Emperor Shizu did not permit it. Chu Yuan earnestly and firmly insisted. Guimao day: Chu Yuan was appointed Sikong and concurrently General of the Cavalry (Piaoqi Jiangjun). His posts as Shizhong and Lu Shangshu remained unchanged.

Autumn, 7th Month: The Northern Wei conscripted 50,000 men from the provinces and commanderies to repair the Lingqiu Road.

The Libu Shangshu from Jiyang, Jiang Mi, was by nature flattering and impatient. When Emperor Gaozu died, Jiang Mi harbored resentment for not having been included in the final testamentary commission. After the Emperor ascended the throne, Jiang Mi did not receive a promotion either. Therefore, he became resentful and slanderous. It happened that the Emperor was unwell. Jiang Mi went to Prince Yuzhang, Xiao Ni, and requested a private conversation. He said, "The Emperor is gravely ill. The Crown Prince is not a man of ability. What are your plans now?" When the Emperor learned of this, he sent Yushi Zhongcheng Shen Chong to memorialize Jiang Mi’s past and present crimes. Gengyin day: Jiang Mi was ordered to commit suicide.

Guimao day: Nankang Wenjian Gong, Chu Yuan, died. His eldest son, Shizhong Chu Lai, was ashamed of his father’s loss of integrity. After the mourning period ended, he no longer held office, yielded his hereditary title to his younger brother Chu Zhen, and lived in seclusion beside his father’s tomb for the rest of his life, never serving as an official.

9th Month, Dingsi day: Because of the national mourning, instruction at the Guozixue (National Academy) was suspended.

The King of the Di people, Yang Wenhong, died. His sons were all young, so his elder brother’s son, Yang Houqi, was established as his successor. 9th Month, Xinyou day: The Northern Wei appointed Yang Houqi as King of Wudu, and Yang Wenhong’s son, Yang Jishi, as Administrator of Baishui. Shortly thereafter, Yang Jishi established himself as king, and Yang Houqi defeated him.

Because there was unrest among the Ba and Di peoples in the Jingzhou region, the Northern Wei appointed General of the West (Zhenxi Da Jiangjun) Li Chong as Inspector of Jingzhou. Li Chong was the son of Emperor Xianzu’s (Xianwen Emperor’s) maternal uncle. When he was about to assume his post, the court ordered troops from the Shan and Qin provinces to be dispatched to escort him. Li Chong declined, saying, "The border people have lost harmony. The root cause is resentment toward the Inspector. Now that I am going to replace him under imperial orders, peace will naturally be restored. A single imperial edict is sufficient; there is no need to trouble troops to guard me, which would only make them fearful." The Northern Wei court accepted his opinion. Li Chong then swiftly led a few dozen cavalry to Shangluo, proclaimed the imperial edict, and offered comfort and reassurance. The common people and the tribal peoples all submitted peacefully. Li Chong ordered that all captured Qi soldiers held by the border garrisons be returned. Consequently, the Qi also returned over two hundred captured prisoners. The two states’ borders coexisted peacefully, and there were no more urgent beacon-fire alarms. After some time, Li Chong was transferred to be Inspector of Yanzhou.

The area within Yanzhou had previously had many bandit raids. Li Chong ordered each village to build a tower and hang a drum on it. Wherever bandits appeared, the drum would be beaten rapidly. The neighboring villages, upon first hearing the drum, would beat it once as a signal, then twice, then thrice. In an instant, the drumbeats would spread for a hundred li. People everywhere stationed guards at strategic points. From then on, whenever bandits appeared, they were invariably captured. Subsequently, all provinces imitated this practice, starting with Li Chong.

Xinwei day: The Southern Qi appointed General of the South (Zhengnan Jiangjun) Wang Sengqian as Zuo Guanglu Daifu and Kaifu Yitong Sansi, and Shangshu You Puye Wang Huan as Inspector of Xiangzhou.

He Changyu, the Zhubu of the late Liu Song Prince of Jianping, Liu Jingsu, along with his Jishi Wang Zhi, and the Xiucai he had recommended, Liu Cong, successively submitted memorials setting forth Liu Jingsu’s virtuous conduct and pleading for redress of his grievances. Winter, 10th Month, Xinchou day: An edict was issued permitting Liu Jingsu’s reburial in his ancestral tomb according to the rites for a scholar-official. Liu Cong was the younger brother of Liu Huan.

11th Month: The Northern Wei Emperor Gaozu (Xiaowen Emperor) was about to personally offer sacrifices to the Seven Ancestral Temples. He ordered the relevant departments to prepare the ritual regulations, and to prepare the sacrificial animals, vessels, robes, and music according to the ancient system. From then on, the regular seasonal sacrifices were all conducted in this manner.

Emperor Shizu Wudi, First Reign Above

Emperor Shizu Wudi, Yongming 1st Year (Guihai, 483 AD)

Spring, 1st Month, Xinhai day: The Southern Qi Emperor Shizu (Wudi) performed the suburban sacrifice at the Southern Suburb, issued a general amnesty for the empire, and changed the reign title to Yongming.

An edict was issued saying that because the borders were tranquil and peaceful, the salaries (field stipends) of all officials governing the people were fully restored.

The Taiwei, Prince of Yuzhang, Xiao Ni, was appointed concurrently as Crown Prince’s Grand Tutor (Taizi Taifu). Xiao Ni did not participate in court government affairs but frequently offered secret advice and plans, which the Emperor mostly followed.

Renxu day: The Emperor’s younger brother Xiao Rui was enfeoffed as Prince of Nanping, Xiao Keng as Prince of Yidu, and the Emperor’s sons: Xiao Ziming as Prince of Wuchang, and Xiao Zihan as Prince of Nanhai.

2nd Month, Xinsi day: General of the Expeditionary Forces (Zhenglu Jiangjun) Yang Jiong was appointed Inspector of Shazhou and Prince of Yinping.

Xinchou day: The King of Dangchang, Liang Miji, was appointed Inspector of the Hezhou and Liangzhou provinces, and the King of Dengzhi, Xiang Shu, was appointed Inspector of Xiliangzhou.

At the end of the Liu Song period, because the six-year term for officials governing the people was too long, a three-year term was adopted, called "Xiaoman" (small completion). However, officials’ transfers and movements could not adhere to the three-year system. 3rd Month, Guichou day: An edict was issued: "From now on, all terms shall be uniformly limited to Xiaoman."

Because of celestial anomalies, the relevant departments requested that sacrifices be held to avert calamity. The Emperor said, "Conforming to Heaven’s will depends on actual deeds, not on empty rituals. I restrain myself in pursuit of good governance, wishing to promote benevolent policies. If the calamity is destined for me, what benefit would prayer bring?" Summer, 4th Month, Renwu day: An edict was issued: "Yuan Can, Liu Bing, and Shen Youzhi, though they did not maintain integrity to the end, their initial loyalty is worthy of recognition." They were all ordered to be reburied according to proper rites.

When the Emperor was Crown Prince, he considered himself older and had jointly initiated the great enterprise with Emperor Taizu (Gaodi). Whether large or small, state affairs were often decided by him alone, frequently violating regulations. He trusted his attendant Zhang Jingzhen, who became arrogant and extravagant, with his clothing and utensils usurping the imperial standard. Both court and common people feared him, but none dared speak out. The Sikong's Consultant (Sikong Zanyi) Xun Boyu, who had always been favored and treated generously by Emperor Taizu, sighed and said: "The Crown Prince’s actions—the Emperor ultimately knows nothing of them. How can I, fearing death, blind the Emperor’s ears and eyes? If I do not report this, who should?" Taking advantage of the Crown Prince’s visit to the imperial mausoleum for worship, Xun Boyu secretly reported the matter to Emperor Taizu. Emperor Taizu was greatly angered and ordered an inspection of the Crown Prince’s Eastern Palace.

When the Crown Prince returned from paying homage at the imperial mausoleum, he reached Fang Mountain as dusk fell and was about to anchor the boat. Prince Yuzhang, Xiao Yi, came from the Eastern Residence on a swift "Flying Swallow" boat to greet the Crown Prince from the east, informing him of the Emperor's anger. The Crown Prince returned that very night and entered the palace. Emperor Taizu also kept the gate locked, waiting for him. The next day, Emperor Taizu sent the Prince of Nan Commandery, Xiao Changmao, and the Duke of Wenxi, Xiao Ziliang, to read an edict reprimanding the Crown Prince, and also showed him Zhang Jingzhen's crimes. He ordered the Crown Prince to arrest Zhang Jingzhen by command and execute him. The Crown Prince, in fear and anxiety, claimed to be ill.

After more than a month, Emperor Taizu's anger had still not subsided. During the day, he lay resting in the Taiyang Hall. Wang Jingze directly burst in, knocked his head on the ground, and reported to Emperor Taizu, saying: "Your Majesty has possessed the empire for only a short time. The Crown Prince has been reprimanded for no reason, and the hearts of the people are fearful. I beg Your Majesty to go to the Eastern Palace to explain this matter." Emperor Taizu did not speak. Wang Jingze then loudly proclaimed the imperial decree, prepared the carriage to proceed to the Eastern Palace, and also ordered the Imperial Kitchen to prepare a meal. He summoned attendants to bring the carriage. Emperor Taizu showed no intention of moving. Wang Jingze took a robe and draped it over Emperor Taizu, then forcibly helped him onto the carriage. Emperor Taizu had no choice but to go to the Eastern Palace. He summoned the various princes to a banquet at the Xuanpu Garden. The Prince of Changsha, Xiao Huang, held the canopy; the Prince of Linchuan, Xiao Ying, held the pheasant-tail fan; the Duke of Wenxi, Xiao Ziliang, held the wine vessel; the Prince of Nan Commandery, Xiao Changmao, poured the wine. The Crown Prince, along with Prince Yuzhang Xiao Yi and Wang Jingze, personally served the wine and dishes. By evening, all were thoroughly drunk before returning.

Emperor Taizu commended Xun Boyu's loyalty, drawing him even closer and trusting him more. Matters of military and state secrets were largely entrusted to him, and his power shook the court. When Xun Boyu encountered his mother's death, about two li from his home, the carriages and horses of officials had already blocked the road. The Commander of the Left Guard, Xiao Jingxian, and the Palace Attendant, Wang Yan, went together to offer condolences. From morning until evening, they were only able to enter. When they came out, they were famished and exhausted, their breath faint. Their anger and dissatisfaction were evident in their voices and expressions. The next day, they said to Emperor Taizu: "What we see of the gates of the Eastern Palace and the palace gates, compared to Xun Boyu's house, one could almost set up nets and catch sparrows." Wang Yan was the nephew of Wang Jinghong.

The Cavalry General, Chen Yinshu, had previously also reported on Zhang Jingzhen and the Crown Prince's faults, but he told the Crown Prince, "It was Xun Boyu who reported it." The Crown Prince therefore deeply resented Xun Boyu.

Emperor Taizu secretly had the intention of replacing the Crown Prince with Prince Yuzhang, Xiao Yi, but Xiao Yi served the Crown Prince even more respectfully, so the Crown Prince's fraternal affection for him did not diminish.

The Inspector of Yuzhou, Yuan Chongzu, did not draw close or attach himself to the Crown Prince. It happened that Yuan Chongzu defeated the Northern Wei army. Emperor Taizu summoned him back to court and secretly planned with him. The Crown Prince grew suspicious of him. He outwardly treated him with courtesy and said to him: "The rumors in the world, I have already let go of. From now on, I entrust wealth and honor to you." Yuan Chongzu bowed in thanks. It happened that Emperor Taizu again sent Xun Boyu with an edict to handle border affairs. After receiving the order, he set out that night and had no time to take leave at the Eastern Palace. The Crown Prince considered him disloyal and harbored even greater resentment.

When Emperor Taizu was near death, he pointed to Xun Boyu and entrusted him to the Crown Prince. After the Emperor ascended the throne, Yuan Chongzu was repeatedly promoted until he became Minister of War, and Xun Boyu was repeatedly promoted until he became a Regular Attendant. Xun Boyu harbored anxiety and fear in his heart. The Emperor, because Xun Boyu and Yuan Chongzu had a good relationship, feared they might start a rebellion, so he deliberately tried to pacify them. On the Dinghai day, an edict falsely accused Yuan Chongzu of recruiting and colluding with barbarians from the desolate regions, wanting to rebel with Xun Boyu. The two were arrested and executed.

On the Gengzi day, the Northern Wei ruler went to Mount Gu. On the Renyin day, he returned to the palace.

In the intercalary month, on the Guichou day, the Northern Wei ruler's consort, Lin of Pingliang, gave birth to a son, Yuan Xun. A general amnesty was proclaimed. Empress Dowager Wenming, because Yuan Xun was to become the Crown Prince, ordered Consort Lin to die and personally raised Yuan Xun. In the fifth month, on the Wuyin day (first day of the month), the Northern Wei ruler went to the Stone Cave Buddhist Temple on Mount Wuzhou. The Chariot and Horse General, Zhang Jing'er, was fond of believing in dreams. Initially, when he served as the Grand Administrator of Nanyang, his wife, née Shang, dreamed that one hand was hot as fire. When he became Inspector of Yongzhou, she dreamed that one shoulder was hot. When he became a Commander of Equal Rank with the Three Departments, she dreamed that half her body was hot. Zhang Jing'er's desires had no limit. He once said to those close to him: "My wife has dreamed again that her whole body is hot." He also said himself that he dreamed the village shrine tree in his hometown reached to the sky. When the Emperor heard of this, he detested him. After Yuan Chongzu died, Zhang Jing'er grew suspicious and fearful in his heart. It happened that someone reported Zhang Jing'er sending people to trade in the Man tribal regions. The Emperor suspected he had treacherous intentions. It happened that the Emperor held an Eight-Vegetarian Fast in the Hualin Garden. All the court officials attended. Zhang Jing'er was arrested on the spot. Zhang Jing'er took off his marten-tail cap and threw it to the ground, saying: "This thing has ruined me!" On the Dingyou day, Zhang Jing'er was executed, and his four sons were also killed.

Zhang Jing'er's younger brother, Zhang Gong'er, was constantly worried about being implicated in his elder brother's calamity. He lived in Guanjun County and had never gone out of Xiangyang. The village was deep, dangerous, and isolated, with layers of walls. Whenever Zhang Jing'er sent someone with a letter, he would always mount his horse, take his bow and arrows, and only then receive the visitor. When news of Zhang Jing'er's downfall arrived, he gathered up all his family wealth and fled into the Man tribal regions. Later, he came out on his own, and the Emperor pardoned him.

Zhang Jing'er's daughter was the wife of the son of Xie Chaozong, a Consultant in the Northern Expedition Army. Xie Chaozong said to the Governor of Danyang, Li Anmin: "In former years, Han Xin was killed; this year, Peng Yue has been killed. What plans does the Governor have?" Li Anmin reported everything to the Emperor. The Emperor had always detested Xie Chaozong's arrogance and insolence. He sent the Acting Censor-in-Chief, Yuan Tuan, to submit an impeachment memorial against Xie Chaozong. On the Dingsi day, he was arrested and handed over to the Commandant of Justice, exiled to Yuexi, and was ordered to commit suicide on the way. Because Yuan Tuan's memorial was not sufficiently sharp and incisive, the Emperor also sent the Left Assistant Director, Wang Zunkui, to submit an impeachment memorial against Yuan Tuan, accusing him of writing a brief document, handling the matter carelessly, distorting the law, and shielding evil men. Yuan Tuan was thus found guilty, dismissed from office, and barred from appointment for ten years. Xie Chaozong was the grandson of Xie Lingyun. Yuan Tuan was the son of Yuan Yi's younger brother.

In autumn, the seventh month, on the Dingchou day, the Northern Wei ruler and the Empress Dowager went to the Shenyuan Pond. On the Jiashen day, they went to Fang Mountain.

The Northern Wei sent an Acting Senior Recorder for Receptions, Dunqiu native Li Biao, on a diplomatic mission.

The Palace Attendant, Left Grand Master of Splendid Happiness, and Commander of Equal Rank with the Three Departments, Wang Sengqian, firmly declined the post of Commander of Equal Rank with the Three Departments. He said to his elder brother's son, Wang Jian: "You bear great responsibility at court, and will soon ascend to the position of the Three Dukes. If I were to accept this office again, it would mean there are two holders of the highest ministerial rank in one family. I am truly fearful." For many years, he did not accept the appointment. The Emperor then granted his request. On the Wuxu day, he was enfeoffed as a Special Advanced Scholar. Wang Jian built a Longbeam Studio, the scale of which slightly exceeded the regulations. When Wang Sengqian saw it, he was displeased and actually did not enter. Wang Jian tore it down that very day.

Initially, when Wang Hong gathered with his brothers, they allowed their sons and grandsons to play freely. Wang Sengda jumped to the ground and imitated a tiger. Wang Sengchuo sat upright, gathering wax drippings from a candle to make a phoenix. Wang Sengda snatched it away and broke it, but he did not regret it. Wang Sengqian stacked twelve game pieces. They neither fell nor did he redo them. Wang Hong sighed and said: "Wang Sengda is handsome and bold. He should not be inferior to others, but I fear he will ultimately harm my family. Wang Sengchuo will be praised for his reputation and integrity. Wang Sengqian will surely be a man of great virtue and high prestige, and his official rank will reach the highest ministerial posts." Later, it all turned out as he had said.

In the eighth month, on the Gengshen day, the Cavalry General, Wang Hongfan, returned from the Rouran. His journey had been over thirty thousand li.

In winter, the tenth month, on the Bingyin day, Southern Qi sent the Cavalry General, Liu Zuan, on a diplomatic mission to Northern Wei. The Northern Wei's Chief of Receiving Guests, Li Anshi, presided over the reception. The Northern Wei people brought out treasures from the imperial treasury and let merchants sell them in the market. Liu Zuan said: "The prices of gold and jade in Northern Wei are too low. It must be because the local mountains and rivers produce them in abundance." Li Anshi said: "Our court does not value gold and jade, so their price is as low as broken tiles and stones." Liu Zuan initially wanted to buy a large quantity, but upon hearing these words, he felt ashamed and stopped. Liu Zuan had been sent on diplomatic missions to Northern Wei many times. Empress Dowager Feng then secretly favored him.

In the twelfth month, on the Yisi day (first day of the month), a solar eclipse occurred.

On the Guichou day, Northern Wei began to prohibit marriage between people with the same surname.

Wang Jian was promoted in title to General of the Guard and participated in overseeing the selection of officials.

This year, the Ba Province was abolished.

The Qin prefectural governor of Northern Wei, Yu Luohou, was cruel by nature. When administering punishments, he sometimes cut off prisoners' wrists, pulled out their tongues, or severed their limbs and hung them up. The entire prefecture was terrified and panicked; the commoner Wang Yuanshou and others rose in rebellion simultaneously. The relevant officials impeached him and reported it to the emperor. The ruler of Northern Wei sent an envoy to Qin prefecture, where at the place where Yu Luohou usually administered punishments, he announced the verdict to the officials and commoners, then executed him. The Qi prefectural governor, Han Qilin, governed with leniency and kindness. His assistant, Liu Puqing, advised Han Qilin, saying, "You hold the talisman and govern a region, yet you have never ordered any executions. How will you display your authority?" Han Qilin replied, "Punishments are meant to stop evil deeds; a benevolent person only uses them when compelled. Now the people do not violate the laws, so why must there be executions? If it is necessary to sever limbs and decapitate to establish authority, then I ought to use you as an example!" Liu Puqing, ashamed and terrified, rose and left.