Tang Annals 17
Comprehensive Mirror to Aid in Government, Volume 201, Chapter 201
[Tang Chronicle 17] From the eighth month of the year Xuanzhi Yanmao to the year Shangzhang Kündun, a total of over eight years.
Emperor Gaozong, Tianhuang Dasheng Dahong Xiao, the Middle Upper, Longshuo Year 2 (Renxu, 662 AD)
Eighth month, Renyin day: Appointed Xu Jingzong as Junior Tutor of the Crown Prince, of the same rank as the Three Heads of the Eastern and Western Pavilions, and overseer of Western Pavilion affairs.
Ninth month, Wuyin day: First ordered officials of the eighth and ninth ranks to wear green clothing.
Winter, tenth month, Dingyou day: The Emperor went to Lishan Hot Springs; the Crown Prince acted as regent. Dingwei day: Returned to the palace.
Gengxu day: Western Pavilion Attendant Shan Ren (from Shaan) Shangguan Yi was appointed to the same rank as the Three Heads of the Eastern and Western Pavilions.
Guichou day: Issued an edict stating that a sacrifice would be held at Mount Tai in the first month of the fourth year, and that the Emperor would proceed to the Eastern Capital in the following second month.
The son of Left Chancellor Xu Yushi, Fengnian Zhizhi Xu Ziran, while hunting, encroached upon farmland. The landowner became angry, and Xu Ziran shot him with a whistling arrow. Xu Yushi flogged Xu Ziran one hundred strokes but did not report the matter. The landowner brought a complaint to the Censorate, but Censor-in-Chief Yang Dexiao did not handle it. Western Pavilion Secretariat Drafter Yuan Gongyu sent someone under an assumed name to submit a sealed memorial exposing the affair. The Emperor said: "Xu Yushi, as a chancellor, oppresses the common people and conceals this—is this not the behavior of one who exercises authority arbitrarily!" Xu Yushi apologized, saying: "Your subject, unworthily holding a pivotal position, serves Your Majesty with upright principles. Unable to fully comply with everyone's wishes, I am thus attacked. As for those who exercise authority arbitrarily, some hold strong armies, others occupy key garrisons. Your subject is a civil official, serving a sage and enlightened ruler; I only know to keep my gate closed and guard myself—how would I dare to exercise authority arbitrarily!" The Emperor grew angry and said: "Do you regret not having military power!" Xu Jingzong said: "For a subject to act thus, his crime is so great that even death cannot atone for it." He immediately ordered him to be taken out. An edict was issued specially exempting him from office. Guiyou day: Established Imperial Prince Li Xulun as the Prince of Yin.
Twelfth month, Wushen day: Issued an edict stating that because the campaigns against Goguryeo and Baekje were underway, and the people north of the Yellow River were exhausted by conscription, the sacrifices at Mount Tai and the journey to the Eastern Capital were both halted.
Fenghai Circuit General Su Haizheng received an edict to campaign against Kucha, ordering the two Khans, Xingxiwang and Jiwangjue, to raise troops and accompany him. When they reached Xingxiwang's territory, Jiwangjue, who had long borne a grudge against Xingxiwang, secretly said to Su Haizheng: "Mishe (Xingxiwang) is plotting rebellion; please kill him." At that time, Su Haizheng's forces numbered only a few thousand. He gathered his staff and deliberated, saying: "If Mishe truly rebels, we will all die without a burial place. It is better to strike first and kill him." He then falsely transmitted an imperial edict, ordering the Grand General to bestow tens of thousands of bolts of silk upon the Khans and various tribal chieftains. Xingxiwang led his followers to receive the rewards, and Su Haizheng captured them all and killed them. Among them, the Shunishi and Basaigan tribes fled. Su Haizheng and Jiwangjue pursued and attacked them, pacifying them. As the army returned and reached the south of Shule, the Gongyue tribe again drew in Tibetan troops, intending to engage the Tang army. Su Haizheng, because his troops were exhausted and dared not fight, bribed the Tibetans with military supplies, agreed to peace, and then returned. From then on, all the tribes believed Xingxiwang had been wronged and each developed feelings of estrangement. Jiwangjue soon died, and the Ten Tribes had no leader. Ashina Duzhi and Li Zhefu gathered the remaining followers and submitted to Tibet.
That year, the Western Turks invaded Tingzhou. The prefect Lai Ji led troops to resist. He said to his followers: "I should have died long ago. Fortunate to have been preserved alive until today, I must repay the country with my life!" Thereupon, without removing his armor, he charged into the enemy and died.
Emperor Gaozong, Tianhuang Dasheng Dahong Xiao, the Middle Upper, Longshuo Year 3 (Guihai, 663 AD)
Spring, first month: Left Wuwei General Zheng Rentai campaigned against the remaining rebels of the Tiele, pacifying them completely.
Yiyou day: Appointed Li Yifu as Right Chancellor, still in charge of selection and appointment matters.
Second month: Moved the Yanran Protectorate to the Uyghurs and renamed it the Hanhai Protectorate. Moved the original Hanhai Protectorate to Yunzhong Ancient City and renamed it the Yunzhong Protectorate. Took the desert as the boundary; prefectures and commanderies north of the desert were subordinate to Hanhai, those south to Yunzhong.
Third month: Xu Yushi was further demoted to be the prefect of Qianzhou. Yang Dexiao, for forming a faction, was exiled to Tingzhou. Xu Yushi's sons Xu Wensi and Xu Ziran were both dismissed from office.
Right Chancellor, Hejian Commandery Duke Li Yifu, in charge of selection and appointment, relying on the Empress's power, specialized in selling offices. There was no order in assessments and selections, and the sound of resentment filled the roads. The Emperor heard of this and calmly said to Li Yifu: "Your sons and sons-in-law are not careful in their conduct and have committed many illegal acts. I have even covered up for you; you should caution them!" Li Yifu's expression changed abruptly, his neck and cheeks tightened, and he said: "Who told Your Majesty this?" The Emperor said: "I merely said this—why must you ask me where I learned it!" Li Yifu completely refused to acknowledge his fault and slowly walked away. The Emperor was displeased from then on.
A diviner, Du Yuanji, told Li Yifu that his residence had prison aura and that he should accumulate two hundred thousand strings of cash to suppress it. Li Yifu believed this and became even more urgent in extorting wealth. When Li Yifu was observing mourning for his mother, on the first and fifteenth of each month, he took mourning leave. He would then wear plain clothes and go with Du Yuanji east of the city, climb an ancient tomb, and observe the atmospheric signs. Someone reported that Li Yifu was spying on portents and omens, secretly harboring rebellious designs. He also sent his son, Right Siyi Langzhong Li Jin, to summon Sun Changsun's grandson Sun Changyan, accepted seven hundred strings of cash from him, and appointed Sun Changyan as Sijin Jian. Right Jinwu Cangcao Canjun Yang Xingying reported this matter. Summer, fourth month, Yichou day: Imprisoned Li Yifu and sent Sixing Taichang Bo Liu Xiangdao, together with the Censor and Xingxiang, to jointly interrogate him, and ordered Sikong Li Ji to supervise. The facts were all substantiated. Wuzi day: Issued an edict to strip Li Yifu of his rank and exile him to Xi Prefecture; strip Li Jin of his rank and exile him to Zhen Prefecture; all his sons and sons-in-law were stripped of rank and exiled to Tingzhou. There was no one inside or outside the court who did not rejoice.
Someone wrote a victory bulletin (lubu) about Hejian Circuit Marshal Liu Xiangdao breaking the great bandit Li Yifu of Tongshan and posted it on the main street. Li Yifu had seized many people's slaves and maidservants. When he fell, these slaves and maidservants each scattered and returned home, so the bulletin said: "Mixing slaves and maidservants and releasing them indiscriminately, each recognizing their own household and rushing in." Yiwei day: Established the Jilin Grand Protectorate in Silla and appointed Kim Beopmin as Grand Protector.
Bingwu day: The Hanyuan Hall of Penglai Palace was completed. The Emperor first moved his regalia and resided there, renaming the original palace the Western Inner. Wushen day: First held court at Zichen Hall.
Fifth month, Renwu day: Wu Junjie, chieftain of the Man tribe in Liuzhou, rebelled. Sent Liu Boying, chief administrator of Ji Prefecture, and right Wuwei General Feng Shihui to mobilize Lingnan troops to campaign against him.
Tibet and Tuyuhun attacked each other. Each sent envoys to submit memorials stating their own case and took turns seeking aid. The Emperor did not agree to either.
A Tuyuhun subject, Suhegui, guilty of a crime, fled to Tibet and detailed the true situation of Tuyuhun, its strengths and weaknesses. Tibet raised troops and attacked Tuyuhun, inflicting a great defeat. Tuyuhun's Khan, Momo, and Princess Honghua led several thousand tents of people, abandoned their state, and fled, seeking refuge in Liangzhou. They requested to move inland to live. The Emperor appointed Liangzhou Governor Zheng Rentai as Qinghai Circuit Grand General, leading right Wuwei General Dugu Qingyun and Xin Wenling to station at Liangzhou and Shanzhou respectively, to guard against Tibet. Sixth month, Wushen day: Also appointed left Wuwei General Su Dingfang as Anji Grand Commissioner, to coordinate the various armies and serve as support for Tuyuhun.
Tibet's Gar Tongtsen stationed at Qinghai, sent an envoy, Lun Zhongcong, to court for an audience, submitted a memorial stating Tuyuhun's crimes, and requested a marriage alliance. The Emperor did not agree. He sent left Weiwei General Liu Wenxiang as an envoy to Tibet, delivering a sealed imperial letter rebuking them.
Autumn, eighth month, Wushen day: The Emperor, because the region east of the sea had been at war for years, the people were distressed by conscription, and many soldiers had died in battle or drowned, issued an edict to halt the construction of ships in thirty-six prefectures. He sent Siyuan Taichang Bo Dou Dexuan and others to go separately to the Ten Circuits, to inquire about the people's hardships and to promote or demote officials. Dou Dexuan was Dou Yi's great-grandson.
Ninth month, Wuyin day: Xiongjin Circuit Grand General, Right Weiwei General Sun Renshi, and others defeated the remnants of Baekje and the Japanese troops at the Baek River and captured their fortress of Juryu.
Initially, after Liu Renyuan and Liu Rengui captured Zhenxian Fortress, an imperial edict ordered Sun Renshi to lead troops across the sea to assist them. The king of Baekje, Buyeo Pung, brought in Japanese troops from the south to resist the Tang forces. Sun Renshi joined forces with Liu Renyuan and Liu Rengui, greatly boosting their momentum. The generals believed that Garilyang Fortress was a strategic water and land hub and wanted to attack it first, but Liu Rengui said: "Garilyang Fortress is dangerous and heavily fortified. A swift attack would harm our soldiers, while a slow one would drag on indefinitely. Jumju Fortress is the enemy's lair, where the horde of villains gathers. To eradicate evil, we must strike at the root; we should attack it first. If we capture Jumju, the other fortresses will surrender on their own." Accordingly, Sun Renshi, Liu Renyuan, and King Kim Beop-min of Silla advanced with the land forces, while Liu Rengui, along with Deputy General Du Shuang and Buyeo Yung, led the navy and grain ships from Ungjin into the Baek River to rendezvous with the land forces and proceed together to Jumju Fortress. At the mouth of the Baek River, they encountered Japanese troops, fought four battles and won all of them, burning four hundred of their ships. The smoke and flames rose to the sky, and the sea water turned red. King Buyeo Pung of Baekje escaped and fled to Goguryeo. The princes Buyeo Chung-seong and Buyeo Chung-ji led their troops to surrender, and Baekje was completely pacified, except for the separate commander, Jik Su-sin, who held out in Imun Fortress and had not yet been taken.
Initially, a man from the western region of Baekje, Heukchi Sangji, over seven feet tall, was brave and resourceful. He served as a Daesol and county commander in Baekje, a position equivalent to a Chinese provincial governor. When Su Dingfang conquered Baekje, Heukchi Sangji led his troops to surrender along with the masses. Su Dingfang imprisoned the king and crown prince of Baekje, let his soldiers plunder, and killed many able-bodied men. Frightened, Heukchi Sangji fled back to his home region with a dozen of his men, gathered scattered soldiers, and fortified Imunsan Mountain, building palisades to strengthen defenses. Within ten days to a month, over thirty thousand people had joined him. Su Dingfang sent troops to attack him; Heukchi Sangji resisted, and the Tang forces suffered losses. Heukchi Sangji then captured over two hundred fortresses, and Su Dingfang, unable to overcome him, returned. Heukchi Sangji and another separate commander, Satak Sangnyeo, each held strategic points in response to Boksin. After Baekje fell, they both led their troops to surrender. Liu Rengui ordered Heukchi Sangji and Satak Sangnyeo to lead their own men to capture Imun Fortress, supplying them with grain and weapons. Sun Renshi said: "These men have the hearts of wild beasts; how can they be trusted?" Liu Rengui replied: "I see that these two are both loyal, brave, and resourceful, sincere in keeping faith and valuing righteousness. It was only that the persons they previously relied on were unsuitable. Now is precisely the time for them to repay kindness and render service; there is no need to doubt." He then supplied them with grain and weapons, dispatched troops to accompany them, and they captured Imun Fortress. Jik Su-sin abandoned his wife and children and fled to Goguryeo.
Emperor Gaozong issued an edict ordering Liu Rengui to lead troops to garrison Baekje and summoned Sun Renshi and Liu Renyuan back to court. After the war, Baekje was in ruins, with every household desolate and corpses strewn across the fields. Liu Rengui first ordered the burial of the dead, registered households, reorganized villages, appointed officials, repaired roads, built bridges, mended dikes, restored ponds, urged farming and sericulture, relieved the poor, and cared for orphans and the elderly. He established altars for the Tang state, promulgated the imperial calendar and naming taboos. The people of Baekje were overjoyed, and throughout the entire region, each person settled into their occupations peacefully. Liu Rengui then set up military colonies, stored dried rations, and trained soldiers, planning to attack Goguryeo.
When Liu Renyuan returned to the capital, Gaozong asked him: "When you were east of the sea, the matters you reported were all timely and appropriate, and also well-reasoned. You are originally a military man; how could you manage this?" Liu Renyuan replied: "This was all the work of Liu Rengui; it is no match for what I could do." Gaozong was pleased, promoted Liu Rengui six ranks, formally appointed him as the prefect of Bangju Prefecture, built a mansion for him in Chang'an, generously rewarded his wife and children, and sent an envoy with an imperially sealed edict to console and encourage him. Shangguan Yi said: "Liu Rengui, despite being demoted and stripped of rank, exerted utmost loyalty; Liu Renyuan, while holding command and authority, recommended worthy talents. Both can be called gentlemen."
Winter, tenth month, Xinsi (first day), Gaozong issued an edict ordering the crown prince to hear matters reported by various offices at the Guangshun Gate every five days, with minor matters all entrusted to the crown prince's decision.
Twelfth month, Gengzi (date uncertain), Gaozong issued an edict to change the reign title for the following year.
Renyin (date uncertain), Anxi Protector Gao Xian was appointed as the commander of a punitive expedition to attack Gongyue in order to rescue Yutian.
This year, the Arabs attacked Persia and the Byzantine Empire, defeating them. They then invaded the Brahman kingdoms to the south, annexing and destroying many barbarian tribes, with their elite troops numbering over four hundred thousand.
The Middle Superior Period of Gaozong, Tianhuang Dasheng Dahong Xiaohuang Emperor, Linde First Year (Jiazi, 664 AD).
Spring, first month, Jiazi (date uncertain), the Yunzhong Protectorate was renamed the Chanyu Grand Protectorate, and Prince Yin Li Xulun was appointed as the Grand Protector of Chanyu.
Initially, when Li Jing defeated the Eastern Turks, he relocated three hundred tents to Yunzhong City, with the Ashide clan as their leaders. By this time, the tribes had gradually grown. The Ashide clan came to court, requesting that, according to barbarian custom, a prince be established as a Khagan to command them. Gaozong summoned him and said: "The present-day Khagan is the ancient Chanyu." Therefore, the name was changed to Chanyu Protectorate, and Prince Yin was appointed as its nominal head.
Second month, Wuzi (date uncertain), Gaozong traveled to Wannian Palace.
Summer, fourth month, Renzi (date uncertain), Wei Prefect and Prince Daoxiao Li Yuanqing died.
Bingwu (date uncertain), Wei Prefect and Duke of Xun, Li Xiaoxie, was sentenced to death by suicide for corruption. The head of the Imperial Clan Court, Prince of Longxi Li Fuyi, and others memorialized that Li Xiaoxie's father, Li Shuliang, had died for the state, and that Li Xiaoxie had no brothers, so his line might become extinct. Gaozong said: "The law is uniform and does not differentiate between close and distant relatives. If it harms the people, even the crown prince would not be pardoned. Li Xiaoxie has one son; why worry about no one to offer sacrifices?" Li Xiaoxie ultimately committed suicide at his own mansion.
Fifth month, Wushen (first day), Sui Prefect and Prince Xudao Li Xiao died.
Yimao (eighth day), the Yao Prefecture Protectorate was established at Nonglongchuan in Kunming.
Autumn, seventh month, Dingwei (first day), Gaozong issued an edict to hold the Fengshan ceremony at Mount Tai in the third month of the third year.
Eighth month, Bingzi (first day), the imperial carriage returned to the capital, visited the old residence, and stayed for seven months. Renwu (date uncertain), they returned to Penglai Palace.
On dinghai (date suspect), Liu Xiangdao, the Minister of the Ministry of Personnel, was appointed as You Xiang (Right Chancellor) concurrently, and Dou Dexuan, the Grand Censor-in-Chief, was appointed as Si Yuan Tai Chang Bo (Minister of Revenue) and Jian Jiao Zuo Xiang (Acting Left Chancellor). In winter, the tenth month, on gengchen (the sixth day), Liu Rengui, the Acting Governor of Xiongjin Prefecture, submitted a memorial saying: “Your servant observes that the garrison soldiers left behind are mostly weak and few are strong and brave. Their clothing is tattered and poor; they only think of returning west and have no heart to exert effort. I asked them: ‘Previously, when you were west of the sea, you saw the common people all volunteering, vying to join the army, and some even requested to prepare their own clothing and provisions, calling themselves “righteous conscripts.” Why are the troops now in such a state?’ They all said: ‘The current government is different from before, and the people’s hearts are also different. In the past, when we campaigned east and west, those who died in the king’s service all received imperial envoys for condolence and sacrifice, were posthumously granted official ranks, or had their ranks transferred to their younger brothers. All who crossed the sea to Liaodong were granted one rotation of merit. Since the fifth year of the Xianqing era, conscripts have crossed the sea many times, but the government has not recorded it, and the dead have been left unattended. Whenever a prefecture or county conscripts soldiers, the strong and wealthy bribe their way out, fleeing and hiding to avoid service; the poor, though old and weak, are sent off as soon as they are conscripted. Not long ago, during the fierce battles to break Baekje and at Pyeongyang, the generals’ orders promised rewards and merits, sparing nothing. But when we reached the western shore, we only heard of shackles and restraints, deprivation of rewards, and reduction of merit grades. The prefectures and counties harassed us, and we could not sustain ourselves. Public and private hardship cannot be fully described. Therefore, even at the start from west of the sea, there were already those who fled or mutilated themselves, not just after reaching the outer regions. Moreover, military merit was originally a source of honor. But in recent campaigns, those with merit were forced to haul carts and labor, no different from common soldiers. The people’s unwillingness to serve is largely due to this.’ I further asked: ‘Previously, soldiers garrisoned for five years could still endure. Now you have only been here for a year—why are you so destitute and exposed?’ They said: ‘When we first left home, we were only ordered to prepare one year’s equipment. Now it has been two years, and there is no date for return.’ I inspected the remaining clothing of the soldiers: it is barely sufficient for this winter, but after next autumn, there will be no preparation at all. Your Majesty has left troops overseas to destroy Goguryeo. Baekje and Goguryeo have always aided each other, and though the Wa (Japan) are far away, they also respond in unison. Without garrison troops, they would form another state. Now, relying on garrisons and setting up military colonies, we depend on the soldiers’ unity of purpose. With such sentiments among the troops, what success can be hoped for? If there is no change, generous rewards, clear rewards and punishments to boost morale, and if we continue as before, I fear the army will grow weary and the date of achieving merit will be unclear. Unpleasant words may not be fully spoken to Your Majesty, so I bare my heart and risk death to submit this memorial.”
Gaozong deeply took his words to heart and sent Right Weiwei General Liu Renyuan to lead troops across the sea to replace the old garrison soldiers, and ordered Liu Rengui to return with him. Liu Rengui said to Liu Renyuan: “The state has deployed an isolated army overseas to manage Goguryeo—this is no easy task. Now the harvest is not yet complete, and if all officers and soldiers are replaced at once, and the generals return, the newly submitted barbarians will be unsettled and may rebel. It is better to temporarily keep the old troops, gradually let them harvest, prepare provisions, and send them back in batches. The general should stay to garrison and pacify; he cannot return.” Liu Renyuan said: “When I returned west of the sea before, I was greatly slandered, accused of keeping many troops to seize the region east of the sea, and barely escaped disaster. Now I only know to obey the imperial order; how dare I act on my own!” Liu Rengui said: “As a minister, if something benefits the state, one should do it if known, regardless of personal interest!” He then submitted a memorial stating the appropriate measures and requested to stay and guard the region east of the sea. Gaozong agreed. He then appointed Fuyu Long as the Commandant of Xiongjin Prefecture to summon and gather the remaining populace.
Initially, Empress Wu could humble herself and endure humiliation, complying with Gaozong’s wishes, so Gaozong set aside opposition and made her empress. But after gaining power, she acted willfully, dispensing favors and punishments. Whenever Gaozong wanted to act, he was controlled by the empress, and he could not bear his anger. A Daoist named Guo Xingzhen frequented the palace and performed sorcery. The eunuch Wang Fusheng exposed this. Gaozong was furious and secretly summoned Shangguan Yi, the Vice Director of the West Terrace and Tong Dong Xi Tai San Pin, to discuss it. Shangguan Yi said: “The empress is autocratic and indulgent, and the realm does not approve. Please depose her.” Gaozong agreed and ordered Shangguan Yi to draft the edict.
Attendants rushed to inform the empress, who hurried to Gaozong to plead her case. The draft edict was still with Gaozong, who felt ashamed and hesitant, unable to proceed, and treated her as before. Fearing her resentment, he deceived her, saying: “I had no such intention; it was all taught by Shangguan Yi.” Shangguan Yi had previously served as Consultant to Prince Chen and, together with Wang Fusheng, had served the former Crown Prince Li Zhong. The empress then had Xu Jingzong falsely accuse Shangguan Yi, Wang Fusheng, and Li Zhong of plotting high treason. In the twelfth month, on bingxu (the thirteenth day), Shangguan Yi was imprisoned and executed along with his son Shangguan Tingzhi and Wang Fusheng, and their properties were confiscated. On wuzi (the fifteenth day), Li Zhong was ordered to die at his place of exile. You Xiang Liu Xiangdao was implicated for his friendship with Shangguan Yi, removed from government affairs, and demoted to Si Li Tai Chang Bo. Many court officials, such as Zuo Su Ji Zheng Qintai, were exiled or demoted for associating with Shangguan Yi.
From then on, whenever Gaozong handled government affairs, the empress would hang a curtain behind the hall and participate in all matters, whether great or small. All power in the realm fell into the inner palace; promotions, demotions, life, and death were decided by her word, while the Son of Heaven merely folded his hands. The court and commoners called them the “Two Sages.”
Le Yanwei, the Right Zhong Hu of the Crown Prince and Acting Vice Director of the West Terrace, and Sun Chuyue, the Vice Director of the West Terrace, were both appointed as Tong Dong Xi Tai San Pin.
The Second Year of the Linde Era of Gaozong, Emperor Tian Huang Da Sheng Da Hong Xiao (Yichou, 665 AD)
In spring, the first month, on dingmao (the twenty-fourth day), the Tubo sent an envoy to court, requesting to make peace with Tuyuhun again and seeking the Chishui region for pasturage. Gaozong did not agree.
In the second month, on renwu (the tenth day), the imperial carriage departed from the capital. On dingyou (the twenty-fifth day), it arrived at Hebi Palace.
Gaozong spoke of Emperor Yang of Sui and said to his attendants: “Emperor Yang rejected remonstrance and perished. I often take this as a warning and humbly seek remonstrance, yet there are no remonstrators—why is this?” Li Ji replied: “What Your Majesty does is entirely excellent; the ministers have nothing to remonstrate about.”
In the third month, on jiayin (date suspect), Jiang Ke, the Acting Minister of the Ministry of War, was appointed as Tong Dong Xi Tai San Pin. Jiang Ke was the son of Jiang Baoyi.
On xinwei (date suspect), the Qian Yuan Hall of the Eastern Capital was completed. In the intercalary month, on renshen shuo (the first day), the imperial carriage arrived at the Eastern Capital.
Shule and Gongyue led the Tubo to invade Yutian (Khotan). An imperial order was issued for Cui Zhibian, the Governor of Xizhou, and Cao Jishu, the General of the Left Wuwei Guard, to lead troops to the rescue.
In summer, the fourth month, on wuchen (the twenty-seventh day), Zuo Shi Ji Lu Dunxin was appointed as Acting You Xiang; Sun Chuyue, Vice Director of the West Terrace, and Le Yanwei, Right Zhong Hu of the Crown Prince and Acting Vice Director of the West Terrace, were both removed from government affairs.
The court astronomer Li Chunfeng, finding that Fu Renjun’s Wuyin Calendar was increasingly inaccurate, modified Liu Zhuo’s Huangji Calendar and compiled the Linde Calendar. In the fifth month, on xinmao (the twentieth day), it was promulgated and put into use.
In autumn, the seventh month, on jichou, Li Yuanyu, the Governor of Yanzhou and Prince Deng Kang, died.
Gaozong ordered Fuyu Long, the Commandant of Xiongjin Prefecture, and King Kim Beop-min of Silla to resolve their past grievances. In the eighth month, on renzi, they formed an alliance at Xiongjin City. Liu Rengui led envoys from Silla, Baekje, Tamna, and Wa across the sea westward to return home. Coinciding with Gaozong’s performance of the Fengshan sacrifices at Mount Tai, Goguryeo also sent Crown Prince Bok-nam to attend the ceremony.
Winter, the tenth month, guichou day. The Empress submitted a memorial saying: “In the old ritual of the Feng and Shan sacrifices, when offering to the Earth Sovereign, the Grand Empress Dowager was associated in the sacrifice, but it was commanded that the dukes and ministers perform the rites. This is a deficiency in ritual propriety. On that day, I request permission to lead the inner and outer appointed ladies in presenting the offerings.” Emperor Gaozong issued an edict: “At the Shan ritual on Mount Sheshou, the Empress shall perform the second offering, and the Grand Princess of Yue, née Yan, shall perform the final offering.” Renxu day. An edict said: “The spirit seats for the Supreme Emperor and the Earth Sovereign set up at the Feng and Shan altars originally used thatch, straw, earthenware vessels, and gourds. They should all be changed to mats, jade vessels, and bronze cups. Other suburban sacrifices should also follow this practice.” Another edict said: “From now on, at suburban and temple sacrifices and feasts, the civil dance shall use the ‘Music of Achieving Success and Celebrating Goodness,’ and the military dance shall use the ‘Music of Divine Merits and Breaking Formations.’”
Bingyin day. Emperor Gaozong set out from the eastern capital Luoyang. The attending civil and military officials and the ceremonial procession stretched for several hundred li without a break. Military camp tents were arrayed, covering the plains. From Goguryeo in the east to Persia, Wuchang, and other countries in the west, those who came to court each led their own retinues in attendance. Their tents, felt huts, cattle, sheep, camels, and horses blocked the roads. At that time, there had been consecutive good harvests; one dou of grain sold for only five cash, and wheat and beans were not traded in the markets.
Eleventh month, wuzi day. Emperor Gaozong arrived at Puyang. Dou Dexuan rode on horseback as an attendant. Gaozong asked: “Puyang is called Diqiu—what is the reason?” Dou Dexuan could not answer. Xu Jingzong galloped forward from behind and said: “In ancient times, Zhuanxu lived here, so it is called Diqiu.” Gaozong praised the answer as good. When Xu Jingzong withdrew, he said to others: “A great minister cannot lack learning. I saw Dexuan unable to answer, and my heart was truly ashamed for him.” When Dou Dexuan heard this, he said: “Each person has abilities and lacks abilities. I do not force myself to answer what I do not know—this is precisely my ability.” Li Ji said: “Jingzong’s knowledge is broad, which is indeed good; Dexuan’s words are also correct.”
Zhang Gongyi, a man from Shouzhang, lived together with nine generations of his family. The Northern Qi, Sui, and Tang dynasties had all honored his household. When Gaozong passed through Shouzhang, he visited his residence and asked him the reason why they were able to live together. Zhang Gongyi wrote over a hundred characters of “forbearance” and presented them. Gaozong praised him and awarded him silk.
Twelfth month, bingwu day. The imperial carriage arrived at Qizhou and stayed for ten days. Bingchen day. They set out from Lingyan Dun and arrived at the base of Mount Tai. The relevant officials built a round altar south of Mount Tai, built the Dengfeng Altar on the mountain, and built the Jiangshan Square Altar on Mount Sheshou.
Emperor Gaozong, Tianhuang Dasheng Dahongxiao Emperor, Zhongshang, First year of the Qianfeng reign period (Bingyin, 666 AD).
Spring, first month, Wuzhen shuo day. Emperor Gaozong sacrificed to the August Supreme Lord of Heaven south of Mount Tai. Jisi day. He ascended Mount Tai and sealed the jade tablets. The text for the Supreme Emperor was stored in a jade casket; the text for the associated emperor was stored in a gold casket. Both were bound with gold cords, sealed with gold paste, stamped with the jade seal, and placed in a stone container. Gengwu day. The Shan ritual was performed on Mount Sheshou, sacrificing to the Earth Sovereign. After Gaozong completed the first offering, the attendants quickly withdrew. Eunuchs held up screens, and the Empress ascended the altar to perform the second offering. The screens were all made of brocade and embroidery. The pouring of wine, placing of offerings, and singing of hymns all used palace women. Renshen day. Gaozong ascended the Chaochao Altar, received congratulations, and issued a general amnesty, changing the reign title. Civil and military officials of the third rank and above were granted one degree of nobility; those of the fourth rank and below were granted one step in grade. Before this, official ranks were not granted by blanket promotions; they were advanced in sequence based on merit and evaluation. When reaching the fifth or third rank, a memorial was still required for the imperial decision. From this time, blanket promotions began. By the end of Gaozong’s reign, those wearing crimson official robes filled the court.
At that time, the general amnesty was proclaimed, but only those sentenced to long-term exile were not allowed to return. Li Yifu, afflicted with worry and anger, fell ill and died. Since Li Yifu’s exile, court officials feared daily that he might be reinstated. When they heard of his death, everyone’s hearts were finally at ease.
Bingxu day. The imperial carriage departed from Mount Tai. Xinmao day. It arrived at Qufu, where Confucius was posthumously granted the title of Grand Preceptor and sacrificed to with a shaolao offering. Guiwei day. It arrived at Bozhou, where they paid homage at the Temple of Laozi and bestowed on him the honored title of Supreme Mysterious August Emperor. Dingchou day. It arrived at the eastern capital Luoyang, staying for six days. Jiashen day. They visited the Hebi Palace. Summer, fourth month, Jiachen day. They returned to the capital Chang’an and paid homage at the Imperial Ancestral Temple.
Gengxu day. Lu Dunxin, Left Palace Attendant and concurrent Acting Right Chancellor, resigned due to old age and illness. He was appointed Grand Steward of Studies and concurrently Left Palace Attendant, and removed from the chancellorship.
Fifth month, Gengyin day. The Qianfeng Quanbao coin was cast, with one coin equivalent to ten old coins. It was stipulated that after one full year, all old coins would be abolished.
In Goguryeo, Yeon Gaesomun died. His eldest son, Yeon Namsaeng, succeeded him as Mangniji. Initially, he managed state affairs and went out to inspect the various fortresses, sending his younger brothers Yeon Namgeon and Yeon Namsan to manage the rear affairs. Someone said to the two younger brothers: “Namsaeng hates that you two press upon him and wants to eliminate you. It would be better to strike first.” The two younger brothers initially did not believe it. Someone also told Namsaeng: “Your two younger brothers fear you will return and take their power, and want to refuse you entry to the city.” Namsaeng secretly sent a trusted agent to Pyongyang to investigate. The two younger brothers discovered and seized him, then used the Goguryeo king’s order to summon Namsaeng back. Namsaeng, afraid, did not dare to return. Yeon Namgeon made himself Mangniji and sent troops to attack him. Namsaeng fled to another city and held it, sending his son Yeon Namsaseong to the Tang court to request aid. Sixth month, Renyin day. Gaozong appointed the Right Grand General of the Valiant Guard, Qibi Heli, as Commissioner for Pacifying the Liaodong Circuit, leading troops to rescue him. He appointed Yeon Namsaseong as Right Martial Guard General, making him a guide. He also appointed the Right Gold-Rear Guard General, Pang Tongshan, and the Yingzhou Governor, Gao Kan, as Marching Commanders-in-Chief, to jointly attack Goguryeo.
Autumn, seventh month, Yichou shuo day. Prince Yin, Li Xulun, was transferred to be Prince Yu. Liu Rengui, Grand Judicial Commissioner and concurrent Acting Left Palace Guardian of the Heir Apparent, was appointed Right Chancellor.
Initially, when Liu Rengui served as a Palace Censor, he investigated the case of Bi Zhengyi. Li Yifu resented him and demoted him to be the Governor of Qingzhou. Just then, the campaign against Baekje occurred. Liu Rengui was supposed to transport grain by sea, but at that time, the weather was not suitable for sailing. Li Yifu pressed him to depart, and they encountered a great wind that sank the ships, drowning many laborers. The court ordered the Investigating Censor, Yuan Yishi, to interrogate him. Li Yifu said to Yuan Yishi: “If you can handle this matter well, you need not worry about having no office.” When Yuan Yishi arrived, he said to Liu Rengui: “Do you have any enemies in the court? You should make plans for yourself early.” Liu Rengui said: “I am unfit for my office, and the state has proper punishments. If you execute me according to law, I have nowhere to flee. But if you make me hastily commit suicide to please my enemies, I truly am unwilling!” So he prepared the case files and submitted them. When Yuan Yishi was about to leave, he even personally unfastened Liu Rengui’s fetters. After the case files were reported, Li Yifu said to Gaozong: “If Liu Rengui is not executed, it is impossible to apologize to the people.” The Grand Master of Remonstrance, Yuan Zhixin, said: “The sea wind suddenly arose; it was not within human control.” Gaozong then ordered that Liu Rengui be stripped of his name and serve as a common soldier. Li Yifu also hinted to Liu Renyuan to kill him, but Liu Renyuan could not bear to do it. When Liu Rengui later became Grand Judicial Commissioner, Yuan Yishi was terrified and uneasy. Liu Rengui poured a cup of wine and said to him: “If I still remember past matters, may I be like this cup!” After Liu Rengui took charge of the government, Yuan Yishi was soon promoted to be Assistant Director of the Palace Household. At that time, there was much public discussion. Liu Rengui heard it and immediately recommended him to be Director of the Ministry of Revenue. The Investigating Censor, Du Yijian, said to others: “This is what is called overcorrecting a fault.”
Eighth month, Xinchou day. Siyuan Taichang Bo and concurrent Acting Left Chancellor, Dou Dexuan, died.
Initially, Wu Shihuo married Xiangli, who bore him sons Wu Yuanqing and Wu Yuanshuang. He then married Yang, who bore him three daughters. The eldest married He Lan Yueshi, a law officer of the Yue Prince's palace; the second was the Empress; the third married Guo Xiaoshen. After Wu Shihuo's death, Wu Yuanqing, Wu Yuanshuang, and Wu Shihuo's elder brother's sons, Wu Weiliang and Wu Huaiyun, all treated Yang disrespectfully, and Yang harbored deep resentment. He Lan Yueshi, Guo Xiaoshen, and Guo Xiaoshen's wife all died young. He Lan Yueshi's wife, after bearing a son, He Lan Minzhi, and a daughter, became a widow. After the Empress was established, Yang was enfeoffed as Lady Rongguo, and He Lan Yueshi's wife was enfeoffed as Lady Hanguo. Wu Weiliang was promoted directly from Chief Historian of Shizhou to Junior Steward of the Palace Garrison; Wu Huaiyun was promoted from Chief Historian of Yingzhou to Governor of Zizhou; Wu Yuanqing was promoted from General of the Right Guard to Junior Steward of the Imperial Clan; Wu Yuanshuang was repeatedly promoted from Registrar of Anzhou to Junior Steward of the Palace Treasury. Lady Rongguo once held a banquet and said to Wu Weiliang and the others, "Do you still remember past events? What do you think of today's glory and wealth?" They replied, "We, being fortunate as descendants of meritorious officials, entered officialdom early. Measuring our status and abilities, we did not seek prominence. How could we have imagined that, because of the Empress, we would unexpectedly receive imperial grace? Day and night we are anxious and fearful, and do not feel honored." Lady Rongguo was displeased. The Empress then submitted a memorial, requesting that Wu Weiliang and the others be sent out as governors of remote prefectures. Ostensibly, this showed modesty and restraint, but in reality, she detested them. Consequently, Wu Weiliang was appointed Acting Governor of Shizhou, Wu Yuanqing Governor of Longzhou, and Wu Yuanshuang Governor of Haozhou. After arriving at his post, Wu Yuanqing died from worry. Wu Yuanshuang was exiled to Zhenzhou for some offense and died there.
Lady Hanguo and her daughter, because of the Empress, had access to the palace and both gained the favor of Emperor Gaozong. Lady Hanguo soon died, and her daughter was granted the title Lady Weiguo. The emperor wanted to appoint Lady Weiguo to a palace post, but, concerned about the Empress, he hesitated and did not decide. The Empress detested her. It happened that Wu Weiliang and Wu Huaiyun, along with various prefectural governors, came to Mount Tai for an audience and then followed the court to the capital, Chang'an. Wu Weiliang and the others presented food. The Empress secretly poisoned the meat sauce, had Lady Weiguo eat it, and she suddenly died. The Empress then blamed Wu Weiliang and Wu Huaiyun. On the day Dingwei, they were executed, and their surname was changed to Fu (viper). Wu Huaiyun's elder brother, Wu Huailiang, had died early. His wife, Shan, had been particularly disrespectful to Lady Rongguo. Due to the case of Wu Weiliang and the others, she was confiscated into the palace as a slave. Lady Rongguo ordered the Empress to flog her with thorny sticks on some other pretext, until her flesh was stripped away and her bones were exposed, and she died.
In the ninth month, Pang Tongshan heavily defeated the Koguryo army, and Quan Nansheng led his troops to join Pang Tongshan. The emperor issued an edict appointing Quan Nansheng as Tejin, Grand Commander of Liaodong, concurrently Pacification Commissioner of Pyongyang Circuit, and enfeoffing him as Duke of Xuantu Commandery.
On the day Wuzi, Liu Xiangdao, the retired Guangping Duke Xuan, with the rank of Gold and Purple Grand Master, died. His son Liu Qixian inherited the title. Liu Qixian was upright, and the emperor greatly valued him, appointing him as Adjutant of Jinzhou. General Shi Xingzong once followed the emperor on a hunt in the imperial park and took the opportunity to say that Jinzhou produced fine goshawks, and that Liu Qixian was now the Adjutant, so he requested to be sent to capture them. The emperor said, "Is Liu Qixian the sort of person to capture goshawks? Why do you regard him like that!"
Winter, twelfth month, on the day Jiyou, Li Ji was appointed as Grand Commander of the Liaodong Circuit Campaign and concurrently Pacification Commissioner, with Hao Chujun, Junior Steward of Personnel from Anlu, as his deputy, to campaign against Koguryo. Pang Tongshan and Qibi Heli were still serving as Deputy Grand Commanders of the Liaodong Circuit Campaign and concurrently Pacification Commissioners. The various water and land army commanders, as well as the grain transport commissioners Dou Yiji, Dugu Qingyun, Guo Daifeng, and others, all operated under Li Ji's command. The taxes and levies from all the prefectures of Hebei were transported to Liaodong to supply the army. Guo Daifeng was the son of Guo Xiaoke.
Li Ji wanted to go on the campaign with his son-in-law, Du Huaigong of Jingzhao, to seek merit. Du Huaigong declined on the grounds of poverty; Li Ji provided for him. He then declined, saying he had no servants or horses; Li Ji provided these too. Having no further excuses, Du Huaigong fled and hid in the Qiyang Mountains, telling people, "Lord Li wants to use me to establish military law." When Li Ji heard this, he wept and said, "Du Lang's nature is carefree; perhaps it is true." So he gave up the idea.
Emperor Gaozong, Tianhuang Dasheng Dahong Xiao, the Middle Superior, Qianfeng second year (Dingmao year, 667 AD).
Spring, first month, the emperor performed the plowing ceremony. The relevant officials presented the plow, which was ornately carved and decorated. The emperor said, "The plow is a tool used by farmers; how can it be so ornate!" He ordered it replaced. Then he began plowing, pushing it nine times before stopping.
Since the issuance of the Qianfeng Quanbao coin, grain and silk prices had soared, and merchants could not conduct business. On the day Guiwei, an edict abolished this coin.
Second month, on the day Dingyou, Prince Fuling Dao, Li Yin, died.
On the day Xinchou, the Wannian Palace was renamed Jiucheng Palace. The twelve prefectures of the Raw Qiang were broken through by Tubo. Third month, on the day Wuyin, they were all abolished.
The emperor repeatedly rebuked his attendant officials for not recommending worthy talents, but none dared to reply. Li Anqi, Junior Steward of Personnel, replied, "The empire is not without worthy men, nor do your officials dare to bury them. Recently, when dukes and ministers made recommendations, they were accused of forming factions by slanderers. The recommended were not promoted, while those in office were first to be punished. Thus, everyone keeps silent. If Your Majesty truly treats them with sincerity, who would be unwilling to recommend those they know? This lies with Your Majesty, not with your officials." The emperor deeply agreed. Li Anqi was the son of Li Baiyao.
Summer, fourth month, on the day Yimao, Yang Hongwu, Vice Director of the Western Phoenix Tower; Dai Zhide, Vice Director of the Western Phoenix Tower; Li Anqi, Chief Remonstrance Officer and concurrently Vice Director of the Eastern Phoenix Tower; Zhang Wenguan, Secretary of the Eastern Phoenix Tower from Changle; and Zhao Renben, Junior Steward of Personnel and concurrently Chief Remonstrance Officer from Hebei, were all appointed as Tong Dongxi Tai Sanpin. Yang Hongwu was the son of Yang Su's younger brother. Dai Zhide was the son of Dai Zhou's elder brother. At this time, the Penglai, Shangyang, and Hebi palaces were being built, campaigns were frequently launched against the barbarians of the four directions, the imperial stables held ten thousand horses, and the treasuries were gradually being depleted. Zhang Wenguan remonstrated, saying, "The lesson of the Sui dynasty is not far off; I hope you will not cause the people to resent." The emperor adopted his advice and reduced the number of horses in the stables by several thousand.
Autumn, eighth month, on the day Jichou (first day of the month), a solar eclipse occurred.
On the day Xinhai, Li Anqi, Vice Director of the Eastern Phoenix Tower and Tong Dongxi Tai Sanpin, was sent out to serve as Chief Historian of Jingzhou.
Ninth month, on the day Gengshen, due to a prolonged illness, the emperor ordered Crown Prince Li Hong to act as regent.
On the day Xinwei, Li Ji captured the Koguryo city of Sinsong and sent Qibi Heli to garrison it. When Li Ji first crossed the Liao River, he said to his generals, "Sinsong is the key western stronghold of Koguryo. If we do not take it first, the other cities will be difficult to capture." So he attacked it. Inside the city, a man named Sajibu and others tied up the city's commander and opened the gates to surrender. Li Ji led his troops in an attack, and sixteen cities were captured. Pang Tongshan and Gao Kan were still at Sinsong. Quan Nanjian sent troops to raid their camp, but General of the Left Martial Guard Xue Rengui repelled them. Gao Kan advanced to Geumsan and fought with Koguryo, but was defeated. Koguryo, taking advantage of their victory, pursued the fleeing Tang troops. Xue Rengui led his troops to attack from the flank, heavily defeating the Koguryo army, killing over fifty thousand men, and capturing the three cities of Namsa, Mokjeo, and Changam, where he joined forces with Quan Namsaeng's army.
Guo Daifeng led the naval forces by another route toward Pyongyang. Li Ji sent a detached general, Feng Shiben, to transport grain and weapons to support him. Feng Shiben's ship was damaged and could not arrive on time. Guo Daifeng's army was starving and in dire straits. He wanted to write a letter to Li Ji but feared it might be intercepted by the enemy, revealing their situation. So he composed a separation-character poem and sent it to Li Ji. Li Ji angrily said, "Military matters are urgent; what is the point of writing poetry? I must kill him!" The administrative secretary, Tongshi Sheren, Yuan Wanqing of Henan, explained the meaning of the poem to him. Li Ji then sent grain and weapons again. Yuan Wanqing wrote a "Proclamation to Koguryo" in which he said, "They do not know to defend the strategic crossing of the Yalu River." Quan Nanjian replied, "We respectfully obey your command!" and immediately mobilized troops to guard the Yalu River crossing. The Tang army could not cross. When the emperor heard this, he exiled Yuan Wanqing to Lingnan.
Hao Chujun was at the foot of a Koguryo city. Before his troops were arrayed in formation, the Koguryo army suddenly attacked, causing great alarm in the army. Hao Chujun sat on a folding chair, eating dried provisions, and secretly selected elite soldiers to defeat the enemy. The officers and soldiers all admired his courage and resourcefulness.
Winter, the twelfth month, on the jiawu day, an edict was issued: "From now on, when offering sacrifices to the Supreme Lord of Heaven, the Five Lords, the Sovereign of the Earth, and the Deity of the Divine Province, they shall all be joint-sacrificed with Emperor Gaozu and Emperor Taizong, and the Supreme Lord of Heaven and the Five Lords shall be jointly sacrificed in the Bright Hall."
That year, the Liao barbarians of Hainan overran Qiong Province.
[Year of the Emperor Gaozong, Tianhuang Dasheng Dahongxiao Huangdi, the Middle Superior, the First Year of Zongzhang (wuchen year, 668 CE)]
Spring, the first month, on the renwu day, the Right Chancellor Liu Ren'gui was appointed Deputy Grand Commander of the Liaodong Circuit.
The second month, on the renwu day, Li Ji and others captured Buryeo's Buyeo Fortress. After Xue Rengui defeated the Goguryeo army at Mount Jinshan, he took advantage of his victory to lead three thousand men in an attack on Buyeo Fortress. The generals thought his force too small and tried to stop him. Xue Rengui said: "Troops do not necessarily need to be numerous; the key lies in how they are used." Thus he advanced as the vanguard, engaged the Goguryeo army, heavily defeated them, killing and capturing over ten thousand men, and then took Buyeo Fortress. Over forty cities in the Buyeo River basin all submitted upon hearing the news.
The Attendant Censor, Luoyang native Jia Yanzhong, was ordered to return from Liaodong, and the Emperor inquired about military affairs. Jia Yanzhong replied: "Goguryeo is sure to be pacified." The Emperor asked: "How do you know?" He answered: "Emperor Yang of Sui's eastern expedition failed because the people's hearts were estranged and resentful; the former Emperor's eastern expedition failed because there was no opportunity within Goguryeo. Now, Goguryeo's King Bojang is weak and powerless, the powerful ministers act autocratically, and after Yeon Gaesomun's death, his sons Geon Nam-geon and Geon Nam-sang are fighting each other internally. Geon Nam-saeng has sincerely submitted and serves as our guide, so there is nothing unknown about Goguryeo's strengths and weaknesses. Relying on Your Majesty's brilliant wisdom, the nation's wealth and strength, and the full efforts of the officers and soldiers, and taking advantage of Goguryeo's internal strife, the situation is such that victory is assured—there is no need to wait for a second campaign. Moreover, Goguryeo has suffered years of famine, calamities and anomalies have repeatedly appeared, and the people are fearful; its downfall is imminent." The Emperor also asked: "Among the generals in Liaodong, who is the most capable?" He replied: "Xue Rengui is the bravest in the entire army; Pang Tongshan, though not skilled in combat, maintains strict discipline in his forces; Gao Kan is self-disciplined with diligence and frugality, loyal and resolute with strategy; Qibi Heli is composed and resolute in decision-making, though somewhat envious of those better than him, he has the ability to command and control; but none of them, day and night cautious and forgetting themselves in concern for the country, can compare to Li Ji." The Emperor highly approved of his words.
Geon Nam-geon again sent fifty thousand troops to relieve Buyeo Fortress. They encountered Li Ji and his forces at the Xuehe River, and the two sides engaged. The Tang army heavily defeated the enemy, killing and capturing over thirty thousand men, then advanced to attack and captured Daehaeng Fortress.
The court's discussion on the system of the Bright Hall was largely settled. The third month, on the gengyin day, a general amnesty was granted, and the reign title was changed.
On the wuyin day, the Emperor visited the Jiucheng Palace. Summer, the fourth month, on the binchen day, a comet appeared near the Five Chariots constellation. The Emperor avoided the main hall, reduced his daily meals, and dismissed music. Xu Jingzong and others memorialized, requesting a return to normalcy, saying: "The comet appearing in the northeast is an omen of Goguryeo's imminent destruction." The Emperor said: "It is I who have not cultivated virtue, and Heaven has sent down this reproach—how can it be blamed on the small barbarians? Moreover, the people of Goguryeo are also my people." He did not consent. On the wuchen day, the comet appeared again.
On the xinsi day, Yang Hongwu, Vice Director of the West Terrace and Co-Administrator of the Three Departments of the East and West, passed away.
The eighth month, on the xinyou day, Liu Renyuan, Commander-in-Chief of the Bierlie Circuit and General of the Right Guard, was found guilty of lingering during the campaign against Goguryeo and was exiled to Yao Province.
On the guisi day, the Emperor's carriage returned to the capital.
The ninth month, on the guisi day, Li Ji captured Pyongyang. After Li Ji took Daehaeng Fortress, the armies that had departed by other routes all converged with him, advancing to the Yalu Stockade. Goguryeo sent troops to resist, but Li Ji and his men attacked fiercely, heavily defeating the enemy, pursuing them over two hundred li, capturing Chengyi Fortress, while defenders of other cities either fled or surrendered in continuous succession. Qibi Heli first led troops to the foot of Pyongyang, and Li Ji's army followed soon after. They besieged Pyongyang for over a month. Goguryeo's King Bojang sent Geon Nam-san leading ninety-eight chieftains, holding white banners, to surrender to Li Ji, who treated them with courtesy. Geon Nam-geon still closed the gates and held out, repeatedly sending troops to attack, but all failed. Geon Nam-geon entrusted military affairs to the monk Sinseong, who secretly sent someone to Li Ji, requesting to serve as an internal agent. After five days, Sinseong opened the city gates. Li Ji let his troops climb the walls, beating drums and shouting, and set fire to the city's surroundings. Geon Nam-geon attempted suicide but failed, and was thus captured. Goguryeo was completely pacified.
Winter, the tenth month, on the wuwu day, the Brahmin Lokayata of the Utea Kingdom was appointed General of Huaihua. Lokayata claimed he could concoct an elixir of immortality, and the Emperor planned to take it. Vice Director of the East Terrace Hao Chujun remonstrated, saying: "The length of life is determined by Heaven's mandate; it cannot be extended by medicine. In the final years of the Zhenguan era, the former Emperor took the medicine of Narayanasvamin, and it ultimately had no effect. At his deathbed, the famous physicians did not know what to do, and those who discussed it blamed Svamin, intending to execute him publicly, but they desisted for fear of being laughed at by the barbarians. The lesson from the former case is not far off; I hope Your Majesty will think deeply." The Emperor then desisted.
As Li Ji was about to arrive, the Emperor ordered that King Bojang and the others be first presented at the Zhaoling Mausoleum, with military formations arrayed and victory songs performed, then enter the capital and be presented at the Grand Temple. The twelfth month, on the dingsi day, the Emperor received the captives at the Hanyuan Hall. Because King Bojang's decrees had not originated from himself, he was pardoned and appointed as Minister of Works, with the title of Extraordinary Same-Rank. Geon Nam-san was appointed Vice Minister of the Court of the Imperial Clan, the monk Sinseong was appointed Grand Master for Splendid Happiness, and Geon Nam-saeng was appointed General of the Right Guard. Those from Li Ji downward were rewarded with varying distinctions. Geon Nam-geon was exiled to Qian Province, and Buyeo Pung was exiled to Lingnan. Goguryeo's five tribes, 176 cities, and over 690,000 households were divided into nine Protectorates, 42 prefectures, and 100 counties. The Andong Protectorate was established at Pyongyang to govern them. Local chieftains with merit were promoted and appointed as Protectors, Prefects, and County Magistrates, governing jointly with Chinese officials. Xue Rengui, General of the Right Guard, was appointed Acting Andong Protector, commanding 20,000 troops to garrison and pacify the area.
On the dingmao day, the Emperor performed a suburban sacrifice in the southern outskirts, announcing the pacification of Goguryeo, with Li Ji serving as the secondary offerer. On the jisi day, he paid homage at the Grand Temple.
Liu Yanyou, the Marshal of Weinan County, passed the jinshi examination at the age of twenty and had the best administrative record among all counties in the capital region. Li Ji said to him: "You are young and have suddenly gained a great name; you should somewhat humble yourself and not stand alone above the crowd."
At that time, there was an edict that soldiers conscripted for the Liaodong campaign who had deserted, if they did not surrender within the prescribed period or surrendered and then fled again, would be executed, and their wives and children would be confiscated as government slaves. The Crown Prince submitted a memorial, considering: "Cases like this are numerous. Some, due to illness, could not keep up with the army and fled out of fear; some, while gathering firewood, were captured by bandits; some drowned while crossing the sea; some, deep in enemy territory, were killed or wounded by the enemy. Military law is harsh, and comrades, fearing joint punishment, report them as deserters. Amid the army, there is no time for verification; they directly transfer the report from the unit's office to the relevant department, and the wives and children are confiscated as government slaves—this situation is truly pitiable. The Book of Documents says: 'Rather than killing an innocent person, it is better to go against the norm oneself.' I earnestly request that for the families of deserters, the punishment of exile and confiscation be remitted." The Emperor followed this advice. On the jiaxu day, Jiang Ke, Minister of War, was concurrently appointed Acting Left Chancellor, and Yan Liben, Minister of Works, was appointed Acting Right Chancellor.
That year, the capital and the regions of Shandong and Jiang-Huai suffered drought and famine.
[Year of the Emperor Gaozong, Tianhuang Dasheng Dahongxiao Huangdi, the Middle Superior, the Second Year of Zongzhang (jisi year, 669 CE)]
Spring, the second month, on the xinyou day, Zhang Wenguan was appointed Vice Director of the East Terrace, and Li Jingxuan, Right Inspector of the Secretariat and Acting Attendant of the Crown Prince from Qiao, was appointed Vice Director of the West Terrace, both as Co-Administrators of the Three Departments of the East and West. Previously, the title of Co-Administrator of the Three Departments was not included in official titles; from this point on, it was included.
On the guihai day, Lu Chengqing, the Chief Steward of Yongzhou, was appointed as the Sixing Taichang Bo. Lu Chengqing once evaluated officials inside and outside the court. There was an official responsible for supervising transport who encountered a great wind and lost grain. Lu Chengqing evaluated him, saying: "Supervising transport and losing grain, the assessment is medium-lower." That person’s expression remained calm, and he withdrew without making any defense. Lu Chengqing valued his magnanimity and changed the annotation to: "It was not within human power, the assessment is medium-medium." The person showed neither a pleased expression nor words of shame. Lu Chengqing again changed it to: "Neither favor nor disgrace causes alarm, the assessment is medium-upper."
In the third month, on the bingxu day, Hao Chujun, the Vice Director of the Eastern Secretariat, was appointed as a co-member of the Three Ranks of the Eastern and Western Secretariats.
On the dinghai day, an edict was issued to determine the system for the Ming Tang (Hall of Brightness): its foundation was octagonal, its roof was round, and it was covered with qingyang jade leaves. Its gates, walls, steps, window lattices, door lintels, pillars, brackets, and beams all imitated the numbers of Heaven, Earth, Yin, Yang, the calendar, and pitch-pipes. After the edict was issued, discussions among the officials had not yet reached a decision, and it coincided with a famine; in the end, it was not built.
Summer, fourth month, on the jiyou day, which was the first day of the month, the Emperor visited the Jiucheng Palace.
Many of the people of Goguryeo rebelled and fled. An imperial decree ordered the relocation of 38,200 Goguryeo households to the empty lands south of the Yangzi and Huai Rivers, as well as to various prefectures south of the mountains and west of the capital. The weak and poor were left behind to guard Andong.
Sixth month, on the wushen day, which was the first day of the month, a solar eclipse occurred.
Autumn, eighth month, on the dingwei day, which was the first day of the month, an edict was issued to travel to Liangzhou in the tenth month. At that time, the Longyou region was empty and exhausted. Many of those discussing the matter considered it inappropriate to go on a tour. When the Emperor heard of this, on the xinhai day, he went to the Yanfu Hall and summoned officials of the fifth rank and above, saying: "From ancient times, no emperor or king has failed to conduct tours of inspection. Therefore, I wish to observe the customs of distant places. If it is truly not feasible, why do you not state it to my face, but instead speak in criticism behind my back? What is the reason for this?" From the Chancellor down, no one dared to answer. Lai Gongmin, a Grand Master of Detailed Justice, stepped forward alone and said: "Tours of inspection are indeed the routine affairs of emperors and kings, but Goguryeo has only recently been pacified, and remnants of bandits are still numerous. In the west, plans and operations have not yet ceased military campaigns. The households in Longyou are impoverished and depleted. Wherever the imperial carriage goes, supplying all manner of things is truly difficult. There is indeed private discussion outside, but because the clear decree has already been issued, the assembled ministers dare not present their deliberations." The Emperor considered his words correct and for this reason canceled the western tour. Shortly thereafter, he promoted Lai Gongmin to the position of Vice Director of the Yellow Gate.
On the jiaxu day, the Hanhai Protectorate was renamed the Andong Protectorate.
Ninth month, on the dingchou day, which was the first day of the month, an edict was issued to move the Tuyuhun tribe to the southern mountains of Liangzhou. Those discussing the matter feared that the Tibetans would invade and oppress them, making it impossible for them to survive, and wanted to first send troops to attack the Tibetans. The Right Chancellor Yan Liben believed that the previous year’s famine and poor harvest made it impossible to raise troops. The discussion went on for a long time without a decision, and in the end, they were not moved.
On the gengyin day, a great wind arose, and the sea overflowed, submerging more than 6,000 households in Yongjia and Angu.
Winter, tenth month, on the dingsi day, the Emperor’s carriage returned to the capital.
Eleventh month, on the dinghai day, Prince Li Xulun of Yu was granted the title Prince of Ji, and his name was changed to Li Lun.
The Sikong, Grand Tutor of the Heir Apparent, and Duke Yingzhenwu Li Ji was ill in bed. The Emperor summoned all his children and grandchildren who were away to return and attend to his illness. When the Emperor and the Heir Apparent bestowed medicines, Li Ji took them. When his children and grandchildren invited physicians for him, he did not allow them to enter, saying: "I was originally a farmer from Shandong. Encountering a sage era, I rose to the rank of Three Dukes, and am nearly eighty years old. Is this not fate! The span of life has its limits; how can I seek to extend my life by resorting to physicians!" One day, he suddenly said to his younger brother Li Bi, the Siwei Shaojian: "I feel a little better today. We can set out wine and enjoy ourselves together." Thereupon, all his descendants gathered. When the banquet was nearly over, he said to Li Bi: "I estimate on my own that I will certainly not recover. I simply wanted to bid you farewell. Do not weep or wail; listen to my commands. I have seen how Fang Xuanling and Du Ruhui toiled all their lives, barely managing to establish their households, only to encounter unfilial sons who dissipated their family property without remainder. I have these descendants; now I entrust them all to you. After the burial is complete, you must immediately move into my main hall, raise the orphaned children, and watch over them carefully. If any have unrighteous aspirations or associate with improper friends, you must first beat them to death, then report it to the throne." From then on, he spoke no more. Twelfth month, on the wushen day, he died. When the Emperor heard this, he grieved and wept. On the day of the burial, he went to the Weiyang Palace, ascended the city tower, and looked at the hearse, weeping bitterly. The tomb was constructed to resemble the Yinshan, Tieshan, and Yudujian Mountains, to commemorate his achievements in defeating the Turks and Xueyantuo.
As a general, Li Ji was resourceful and decisive. When discussing matters with others, he followed good advice as readily as water flows. After victories, he attributed the merit to his subordinates. Any gold, silver, silk, or cloth he received, he distributed entirely to his officers and soldiers. Therefore, people were willing to die for him, and wherever he went, he was victorious. When selecting generals for a campaign, he would always examine those with ample features and send them. When someone asked him why, Li Ji said: "A person with a thin fate is not worth achieving merit and fame with." He managed his household harmoniously and strictly. His elder sister once fell ill, and Li Ji, already holding the post of Puye, personally cooked porridge for her. When the wind blew back and singed his beard and hair, his sister said: "There are many servants and maids; why must you put yourself to such trouble?" Li Ji said: "It is not because there is no one to employ. It is just that my sister is old, and I am also old. Even if I wished to cook porridge for my sister for a long time, could I do so?" Li Ji often said to others: "When I was twelve or thirteen, I was a reckless bandit, killing anyone I met. When I was fourteen or fifteen, I was a difficult bandit, killing when I encountered something displeasing. When I was seventeen or eighteen, I was a good bandit, killing only when facing battle. When I was twenty, I became a great general, using military force to save people from death." Li Ji’s eldest son Li Zhen died early, and Li Zhen’s son Li Jingye inherited the title.
At that time, the realm had been at peace for a long time, and the number of candidates for office was increasing daily. In this year, Pei Xingjian, the Silie Shaochang Bo, together with the Yuanwai Lang Zhang Renyi, first established the "Long Name Surname Calendar List" and formulated the method of selection and appointment. They also set standards for the promotion and demotion of prefectures and counties, and for the seniority of officials. Thereafter, this became a permanent system that no one could change.
In general, the Tang method of selecting officials evaluated candidates based on appearance, speech, calligraphy, and judgment, calculating their seniority and weighing their achievements to assign positions. They first gathered for an examination, looking at their calligraphy and judgment. After the examination, they were selected, observing their physique and speech. After selection, appointments were proposed, inquiring about their convenience. After the proposals, names were announced, assembling the group to inform them. Then they were classified into registers, first sent to the Puye for review, then reported to the Secretariat-Chancellery. The Jishizhong read them, the Shilang inspected them, and the Shizhong confirmed them; unsuitable ones were rejected. After confirmation, it was then memorialized to the Emperor. The responsible official received the imperial instruction and carried it out, issuing credentials separately, called gaoshen. The military selection in the Ministry of War was also conducted in this way. The methods of examination and testing were based on horse archery, weightlifting, and carrying grain. If someone’s qualifications were insufficient, but they could pass an examination in three essays, it was called hongci; if they passed an examination in three judgments, it was called bacu. Those who passed could be appointed without regard to rank. The prefectural and county officials in Qianzhong, Lingnan, and Minzhong were not selected by the Ministry of Personnel but were commissioned by the Dudu to choose local scholars to fill the posts. All officials were evaluated annually. For those of the sixth rank and below, four evaluations constituted a full term.
Emperor Gaozong, Tianhuang Dasheng Dahong Xiao Huangdi, the middle superior, Xianheng first year (gengwu year, 670 CE).
Spring, first month, on the dingchou day, the Right Chancellor Liu Rengui requested retirement; the Emperor approved.
Third month, on the jiaxu day, which was the first day of the month, due to a drought, a general amnesty was granted, and the reign title was changed.
On the dingchou day, the Penglai Palace was renamed the Hanyuan Palace.
On the renchen day, the Junior Tutor of the Heir Apparent, Xu Jingzong, requested retirement; the Emperor approved.
An imperial decree ordered the sons and younger brothers of Turkic chieftains to serve in the Eastern Palace. Xu Qidan, a Xishe Sheren, submitted a memorial, considering: "The Heir Apparent should attract cultured, upright, and virtuous men to place by his side. How can barbarian and Rong vile elements be allowed to enter the palace to serve!" He also memorialized: "Duke Xian of Qi is the maternal grandfather of Your Majesty. Even if his descendants have transgressions, how should it be extended to implicate the ancestral temple! Now the temple of Duke Zhongxiao of Zhou is well-maintained, but the temple of Duke Xian of Qi is ruined and abandoned. I do not know what Your Majesty will use to make this known to the world and to manifest the way of filial piety!" The Emperor followed all his advice. Xu Qidan was the younger brother of Xu Chongrong.
In summer, the fourth month, the (Tubo) conquered eighteen prefectures in the Western Regions, and also united with (Yutian) to attack the (Bohuan) city of (Qiuci), capturing it. The court abolished the four garrisons of (Qiuci), (Yutian), (Yanqi), and (Shule). On the Xinhai day, the Right Guard General Xue Rengui was appointed as the Grand Commander of the Luosuo Circuit Expeditionary Army, with the Left Guard Vice General Ashina Daozhen and the Left Guard General Guo Daifeng as deputies, to campaign against (Tubo) and simultaneously escort the (Tuyuhun) back to their former lands.
On the Gengwu day, the Emperor visited the Jiucheng Palace.
The Goguryeo chieftain Jian Moucen rebelled, establishing Anshun, the grandson of Gao Zang, as ruler. The court appointed the Left Guard General Gao Kan as the Grand Commander of the Dongzhou Circuit Expeditionary Army to suppress the rebellion. Anshun killed Jian Moucen and fled to Silla.
In the sixth month, on the Renshen day of the new moon, a solar eclipse occurred.
In autumn, the eighth month, on the Dingsi day, the Emperor’s carriage returned to the capital.
Guo Daifeng had previously been of equal rank with Xue Rengui. When campaigning against (Tubo), he was ashamed to be subordinate to Xue Rengui, and he often disobeyed Xue Rengui’s orders. The army reached Dafei River and was about to march to Wuhai. Xue Rengui said, “Wuhai is strategically dangerous and far away; marching there is very difficult. If we take the baggage train along, it will be hard to seize a favorable opportunity. We should leave twenty thousand men to set up two stockades on Dafei Ridge and store all the baggage inside. Then we lead the elite troops, double our speed and march day and night, and launch a surprise attack before the enemy is prepared. We will surely defeat them.” Xue Rengui led his force ahead, attacked the (Tubo) at the river mouth, and decisively defeated them, killing and capturing many. He advanced and encamped at Wuhai, waiting for Guo Daifeng. Guo Daifeng did not adopt Xue Rengui’s strategy; he advanced slowly with the baggage train. Before reaching Wuhai, he encountered more than 200,000 (Tubo) troops. Guo Daifeng’s army was severely defeated, and he fled back, abandoning all the baggage. Xue Rengui withdrew and encamped at Dafei River. The (Tubo) Chancellor Lun Qinling led over 400,000 troops to attack them. The Tang army was utterly defeated, with nearly all killed or wounded. Xue Rengui, Guo Daifeng, and Ashina Daozhen all escaped with their lives. They made a peace agreement with Lun Qinling and then returned. The court issued an edict for the Grand Minister of Law Le Yanwei to go to the army and investigate the circumstances of their defeat. They were shackled and sent to the capital, and all three were spared the death penalty but stripped of their official ranks.
Lun Qinling was the son of Lu Dongzan. He and his younger brothers Zanpo, Xiduo, and Bolun were all talented and resourceful. After Lu Dongzan died, Lun Qinling took over the governance of the state. His three younger brothers commanded troops outside, and neighboring states all feared them.
The Guanzhong region suffered drought and famine. In the ninth month, on the Dingchou day, an edict was issued stating that the following year, in the first month, the Emperor would proceed to the Eastern Capital.
On the Jiashen day, the Empress’s mother, the Lady of the State of Lu, Zhonglie, Yang, passed away. An edict ordered all civil and military officials of the ninth rank and above, as well as external titled ladies, to go to her residence to offer condolences and weep.
In the intercalary month, on the Guimao day, the Empress, due to the prolonged drought, requested to resign her position as Empress. The request was not granted.
On the Renzi day, the (Situ) Zhou Zhongxiao, Duke Wu Shiwei, was posthumously promoted to (Taiwei) and the Prince of Taiyuan, and his wife was made Princess.
On the Jiayin day, the Left Chancellor Jiang Ke was appointed as the Grand Commander of the Liangzhou Circuit Expeditionary Army to defend against (Tubo).
In winter, the tenth month, on the Yiwei day, the Right Deputy Protector of the Crown Prince and co-Administrator of the Three Departments of the East and West, Zhao Renben, was appointed as the Left Minister of the Secretariat and removed from the chancellorship.
On the Gengyin day, an edict was issued restoring all official titles to their former names.