Annals of Jin, Volume 17

Comprehensive Mirror for Aid in Government, Volume 095 [Annals of Jin, Chapter 17] From the year renchen to the year dingyou, six years in total.

Spring, first month, xinwei day. A general amnesty was granted throughout the empire. Zhao ruler Shi Le held a great banquet for his officials and said to Xu Guang, "How does We compare with rulers of various ranks since ancient times?" Xu Guang replied, "Your Majesty's divine martial strategy surpasses that of Emperor Gaozu of Han; no one in later generations can compare." Shi Le laughed and said, "How can a man lack self-knowledge! Your words go too far. If We encountered Emperor Gaozu of Han, We should face north and serve him as a subject, ranking with Han Xin and Peng Yue; if We encountered Emperor Guangwu of Han, We should vie with him for supremacy in the Central Plains, not knowing who would win. When a man of great stature does things, he should be open and aboveboard, as bright as the sun and moon; ultimately, We will not imitate Cao Mengde or Sima Zhongda, who bullied the orphans and widows of others and seized the empire through sycophantic means." All the officials kowtowed and shouted "Long live the Emperor" ten thousand times.

Although Shi Le did not study books, he enjoyed having Confucian scholars read to him, and he often used his own opinions to comment on the successes and failures of ancient and modern times. Those who heard him were always sincerely convinced. Once he had someone read the Book of Han. When he heard that Li Yiji advised Liu Bang to establish the descendants of the six states, he was startled and said, "This approach should lead to failure. Why did he ultimately gain the empire?" Only when he heard the remonstrance of Liu Hou (Zhang Liang) did he say, "Fortunately, there was this move!"

When Guo Jing retreated to defend Fancheng, the Jin forces recaptured Xiangyang. Summer, fourth month. Guo Jing again captured Xiangyang, left troops to garrison it, and then returned.

Zhao's Right Puye Cheng Xia said to Zhao ruler Shi Le, "Zhongshan King Shi Hu is brave, fierce, and possesses strategic power. None of the officials can compare with him. Observing his ambitions, apart from Your Majesty, he looks down on everyone else. Additionally, he is cruel and violent. Having long served as a general, his prestige shakes the court and the realm. His several sons are grown and all control military power. While Your Majesty lives, there will naturally be no problem, but I fear he is not a minister who can assist a young ruler. He should be eliminated early to benefit the great plan of the state." Shi Le said, "The empire is not yet pacified, and Daya (Crown Prince Shi Hong) is young. There should be capable assistance. Zhongshan King is my close flesh and blood and has the merit of assisting in the founding enterprise. I am about to entrust him with the heavy responsibility of Yi Yin and Huo Guang. How could it be as you say! You are only worried that you cannot monopolize the power of the emperor's maternal uncle. I will also let you participate in assisting the government. Do not worry excessively." Cheng Xia wept and said, "What I worry about is the state. Your Majesty uses personal feelings to reject my loyal words. How can loyal words enter? Although Zhongshan King was raised by the Empress Dowager, he is not Your Majesty's own flesh and blood. Though he has minor merits, it would be enough for Your Majesty to reward him and his sons with favor and honor. But his ambitions and desires have no limit. How can he benefit the state in the future! If he is not eliminated, I fear the ancestral temple will have its sacrifices cut off." Shi Le did not listen.

After Cheng Xia withdrew, he told Xu Guang. Xu Guang said, "Zhongshan King often gnashes his teeth at us two. I fear he will not only harm the state but also become a disaster for our families." Another day, Xu Guang took the opportunity to say to Shi Le, "Now the state has no military affairs, yet Your Majesty's expression seems unhappy. Why is that?" Shi Le said, "The lands of Wu (Eastern Jin) and Shu (Cheng Han) are not yet pacified. I fear later generations will not consider me a ruler who received the Mandate of Heaven." Xu Guang said, "Wei succeeded the fortune of Han. Although Liu Bei rose in Shu, could it be said that Han was not extinguished! Sun Quan was in Wu, just like the current Li family (Cheng Han). Your Majesty encompasses the two capitals of Luoyang and Chang'an and has swept the eight provinces. If the thread of imperial succession is not with Your Majesty, with whom can it be? Moreover, does Your Majesty not worry about the ailments of the heart and vitals, but instead worry about the limbs? Zhongshan King, relying on Your Majesty's authority and strategy, is invincible wherever he goes, and everyone in the empire says his martial prowess is second only to Your Majesty. Furthermore, his nature is unkind; he sees profit and forgets righteousness. Father and sons together occupy positions of power, their influence overshadowing the royal house. And he harbors discontent in his heart. Recently, while attending a banquet in the Eastern Palace, he showed contempt for the Crown Prince. I fear that after Your Majesty's hundred years, he will be uncontrollable." Shi Le was silent. He then ordered the Crown Prince to review documents submitted to the (Department of State Affairs) and ordered Zhongchangshi Yan Zhen to participate in deciding what was acceptable or not. Only major matters such as campaigns and executions were reported to Shi Le. Consequently, Yan Zhen's power surpassed that of the chief minister, and the gate of Zhongshan King Shi Hu became so deserted that one could set up nets to catch sparrows. Shi Hu became even more disgruntled.

Autumn. Zhao general Guo Jing raided southward into Jiangxi (the region west of the Yangzi River). Grand Commandant Tao Kan sent his son, Pingxi Canjun Tao Bin, together with Southern Central General Huan Xuan, to attack Fancheng by surprise, capturing all of Guo Jing's troops. Guo Jing turned his army back to rescue Fancheng. Huan Xuan engaged him at the Nie River, defeated him, and recaptured all the seized population and property. Tao Zhen, the son of Tao Kan's elder brother, together with Jingling Governor Li Yang, attacked Xinye and captured it. Guo Jing, in fear, fled. Huan Xuan then captured Xiangyang.

Tao Kan had Huan Xuan guard Xiangyang. Huan Xuan pacified and nurtured the newly submitted people, reduced punishments, simplified rituals, and encouraged and supervised farming and sericulture. Sometimes he would load hoes and plowshares onto a light carriage and personally lead the people in weeding and harvesting. For over ten years in Xiangyang, the Zhao forces attacked many times, but Huan Xuan defended with a small and weak force, and the Zhao forces could not prevail. People at the time considered his ability second only to Zu Ti and Zhou Fang.

Cheng Han's Grand General Li Shou invaded Ningzhou. He sent his Zhengdong General Fei He as the vanguard, setting out from Guanghan, and Zhennan General Ren Hui from Yuexi, in order to divide Ningzhou's forces.

Winter, tenth month. Li Shou and Fei He reached Zhuti. Zhuti Governor Dong Bing held the city in defense. Ningzhou Inspector Yin Feng sent Jianning Governor Huo Biao to lead troops to assist him. Li Shou wanted to intercept Huo Biao. Fei He said, "The city has little grain. You should let Huo Biao enter the city, so that together they consume their provisions. Why intercept him?" Li Shou followed this advice. The city of Zhuti could not be taken after a long siege. Li Shou wanted to assault it swiftly. Fei He said, "The terrain of Nanzhong is dangerous and difficult to overcome. You should use time to subdue them. Wait until their wisdom and strength are both exhausted, then attack them. They will be like cattle in a pen. Why be hasty for success?" Li Shou did not listen and launched an attack, which indeed proved unfavorable. He then entrusted all military matters to Fei He.

Eleventh month, renzi day, the first day of the month. Grand Commandant Tao Kan was promoted to Grand General. He was permitted to enter the court wearing his sword and shoes, to not have to walk quickly when entering the court, and for the herald not to call his name when announcing him. Tao Kan firmly declined and did not accept.

Twelfth month, gengxu day. The Emperor moved residence to the new palace.

This year, the officials of Liangzhou advised Zhang Jun to style himself King of Liang, concurrently serve as Inspector of Qin and Liang provinces, and establish dukes, ministers, and the hundred officials, following the precedent of Wei Wudi and Jin Wendi. Zhang Jun said, "These are not words that a subject should speak. Whoever dares to speak such words is guilty of an unpardonable crime!" However, everyone within his territory called him king. Zhang Jun established his second son, Zhang Zhonghua, as heir apparent.

Spring, first month. Cheng's Grand General Li Shou captured Zhuti. Dong Bing and Huo Biao both surrendered. Li Shou's prestige shook the Nanzhong region. Bingzi day. Zhao ruler Shi Le sent an envoy to seek friendly relations. The court issued an edict to burn their gifts.

Third month. Ningzhou Inspector Yin Feng surrendered to Cheng. Cheng completely occupied the Nanzhong region, granted a general amnesty, and appointed Grand General Li Shou concurrently as Ningzhou Inspector.

Summer, fifth month, jiayin day. Liaodong Wuxuan Gong Murong Hui died. Sixth month. Heir apparent Murong Huang, as General of Pingbei and acting Inspector of Pingzhou, took charge of governing the territory. He granted amnesty to prisoners in custody. He appointed Chief Clerk Pei Kai as Military Advisor and Libationer, and Langzhongling Gao Xu as Xuantu Governor. Murong Huang wanted to appoint Daifang Governor Wang Dan as Left Chief Clerk. Wang Dan yielded to Liaodong Governor Yang Wu on the basis of his talent. Murong Huang agreed and appointed Wang Dan as Right Chief Clerk.

The Later Zhao ruler Shi Le lay ill. Zhongshan Prince Shi Hu entered the palace to attend to him, issuing false imperial edicts so that no officials or relatives could enter the palace. No one outside the palace knew whether Shi Le’s condition was improving or worsening. He also falsely issued an edict summoning Qin Prince Shi Hong and Pengcheng Prince Shi Kan back to Xiangguo. When Shi Le’s condition slightly improved, he saw Shi Hong and said in surprise: “I sent you to guard the frontier precisely to prepare for a situation like this. Was someone sent to summon you back, or did you return on your own? If there is someone who summoned you back, they should be executed according to law!” Shi Hu said fearfully: “The Qin Prince was thinking of you and merely returned temporarily; now I will send him back.” But he still detained him and did not let him leave. A few days later, Shi Le asked about this again. Shi Hu said: “An edict was issued to send him back, and he is already halfway there.” When a locust plague occurred in Guang’a, Shi Hu secretly sent his son, the Cishi of Jizhou, Shi Sui, with three thousand cavalry to patrol the locust-stricken area.

In autumn, the seventh month, Shi Le’s illness became critical. He left a testamentary edict saying: “Da Ya and his brothers should protect each other well. The Sima family serves as your warning. The Zhongshan Prince should deeply reflect on the stories of the Duke of Zhou and Huo Guang, and not leave a legacy of criticism for future generations.” On the day wuchen, Shi Le died. The Zhongshan Prince Shi Hu seized the crown prince Shi Hong, forcing him to go to the palace hall. He arrested the Right Guanglu Daifu Cheng Xia and the Zhongshu Ling Xu Guang, handing them over to the Tingwei, and summoned Shi Sui to lead troops into the palace for night guard. Civil and military officials all fled. Shi Hong was extremely fearful, declaring himself of low ability and offering to abdicate in favor of Shi Hu. Shi Hu said: “When the ruler dies, the crown prince ascends the throne—this is the constant principle of ritual propriety.” Shi Hong wept and firmly declined. Shi Hu angrily said: “If you cannot bear the heavy responsibility, the realm naturally has its great principles. Why discuss this beforehand!” Shi Hong then ascended the throne. A general amnesty was proclaimed. Cheng Xia and Xu Guang were executed. That night, Shi Le’s coffin was secretly buried in a mountain valley, and no one knew the burial site. On the day jimao, with full ceremonial guards, a false burial was conducted at Gaopingling. His posthumous title was Mingdi, and his temple name was Gaozu.

The Later Zhao general Shi Cong and the Qiao Commandery Prefect Peng Biao each sent envoys to surrender. Shi Cong was originally a Jin person who had taken the surname Shi. The court sent the Du Hu Qiu Qiu to lead troops to rescue them, but before they arrived, Shi Cong and the others had already been executed by Shi Hu.

Murong Huang sent the Zhangshi, a man from Bohai named Wang Ji and others, to report news of a death.

In the eighth month, the Later Zhao ruler Shi Hong appointed the Zhongshan Prince Shi Hu as Chengxiang, Wei Prince, and Da Chanyu, granting him the Nine Bestowments, making the thirteen commanderies including Wei Commandery his fief, and entrusting him with overall court affairs. Shi Hu proclaimed a general amnesty within his fief, established his wife Zheng as Wei Prince’s consort; his son Shi Sui was made Wei Crown Prince, granted the titles of Shi Chi Jie, Shi Zhong, Du Du Zhong Wai Zhu Jun Shi, Da Jiangjun, and Lu Shang Shu Shi; his second son Shi Xuan was made Shi Chi Jie, Che Qi Da Jiangjun, Cishi of Jizhou, and enfeoffed as Hejian Prince; Shi Tao was made Qianfeng Jiangjun and Si Li Xiao Wei, enfeoffed as Le’an Prince; Shi Zun was enfeoffed as Qi Prince, Shi Jian as Dai Prince, Shi Bao as Leping Prince; and the Pingyuan Prince Shi Bin was renamed Zhangwu Prince. All of Shi Le’s former civil and military old officials were given idle posts; the staff and close associates of Shi Hu’s household were all placed in key positions within the court. The Zhenjun Jiangjun Kui An was appointed concurrently as Zuo Pu She, and the Shangshu Guo Yin as You Pu She. The crown prince’s palace was renamed the Chongxun Palace, and Empress Dowager Liu and all others moved there. The finest of Shi Le’s palace women, chariots, horses, clothing, and playthings were selected and sent to the Chengxiang’s residence.

Yuwen Qidegui was driven out by his eastern tribal elder Yidugui, fled into exile, and died. Murong Huang led troops to attack Yidugui, encamping at Guang’an. Yidugui, in fear, requested peace, so Murong Huang built the two cities of Yuyin and Anjin and then returned.

The Cheng Han commanderies of Jianning and Zangke surrendered, but Li Shou attacked and retook them.

The Later Zhao Empress Dowager Liu said to Pengcheng Prince Shi Kan: “The late emperor has just died, and the Chengxiang already treats us with such bullying and trampling. The fall of the imperial enterprise may not be far off. What do you plan to do?” Shi Kan said: “The late emperor’s old officials have all been alienated and pushed aside. The army is no longer under our control. Within the palace, there is nothing to be done. I request to flee to Yanzhou, take Nanyang Prince Shi Hui as the leader of an alliance, occupy Linqiu, and proclaim the Empress Dowager’s edict to the provincial governors, commandery prefects, and garrison and expedition generals, so that each will raise troops to kill this violent rebel. Perhaps there may be a chance for a turnaround.” Liu said: “The matter is urgent! You should act quickly.” In the ninth month, Shi Kan changed into commoner’s clothes, lightly mounted his horse, and attacked Yanzhou. He did not succeed and fled south to Qiaocheng. The Chengxiang Shi Hu sent his general Guo Tai to pursue him. Shi Kan was captured at Chengfu, sent to Xiangguo, and roasted to death. Nanyang Prince Shi Hui was summoned back to Xiangguo. The plot of Liu was revealed. Shi Hu deposed and killed her, honoring Shi Hong’s mother, Cheng, as Empress Dowager. Shi Kan was originally the son of the Tian family, had achieved many military merits, and was adopted as a son by the Later Zhao ruler Shi Le. Liu had courage and strategy. Shi Le often consulted with her on military affairs. She assisted Shi Le in establishing his achievements, having the demeanor of Empress Lü, but her jealousy exceeded that of Empress Lü.

The Later Zhao’s Hedong Prince Shi Sheng guarded Guanzhong, and Shi Lang guarded Luoyang. In winter, the tenth month, Shi Sheng and Shi Lang both raised troops to attack the Chengxiang Shi Hu. Shi Sheng proclaimed himself Cishi of Qinzhou and sent envoys to surrender. The Di tribal leader Pu Hong proclaimed himself Cishi of Yongzhou and went west to submit to Zhang Jun.

Shi Hu left the crown prince Shi Sui to guard Xiangguo and led 70,000 infantry and cavalry to attack Shi Lang at Jin Yong. Jin Yong was breached, Shi Lang was captured, his feet cut off, and then he was killed. Shi Hu then advanced to Chang’an, appointing Liang Prince Shi Ting as Qianfeng Dadudu. Shi Sheng sent General Guo Quan to lead 20,000 Xianbei Shewei tribesmen as the vanguard to resist, while Shi Sheng followed with the main army, encamping at Puban. Guo Quan clashed with Shi Ting at Tong Pass, heavily defeating Shi Ting. Shi Ting and the Chengxiang’s Left Zhangshi Liu Wei both died in battle. Shi Hu fled to Mianchi, with corpses strewn in a continuous line for over 300 li. The Xianbei secretly colluded with Shi Hu and turned to attack Shi Sheng. Unaware that Shi Ting was dead, Shi Sheng, in fear, fled alone on horseback to Chang’an. Guo Quan gathered the remaining troops and withdrew to encamp at a bend in the Wei River. Shi Sheng then abandoned Chang’an and hid at Jitou Mountain. General Jiang Ying occupied Chang’an to resist and defend. Shi Hu advanced to attack Jiang Ying and killed him. Shi Sheng’s subordinates killed Shi Sheng and surrendered. Guo Quan fled to Longyou.

Shi Hu ordered various generals to guard the counties of Qian and Long, and sent General Ma Qiu to attack Pu Hong. Pu Hong led 20,000 households to surrender to Shi Hu. Shi Hu welcomed him and appointed him Guanglie Jiangjun and Hu Qiang Xiao Wei. When Pu Hong arrived at Chang’an, he advised Shi Hu to move the powerful families of Guanzhong and the Di and Qiang tribes to enrich the east. He said: “All the Di tribes are the family troops of the Hong clan. If I lead them to follow you, who would dare to resist!” Shi Hu heeded this and relocated the people of Qinzhou and Yongzhou, along with the Di and Qiang tribes, totaling over 100,000 households, to the east of the Pass. He appointed Pu Hong as Longxiang Jiangjun and Liu Min Dudu, settling him at Fangtou. He appointed the Qiang leader Yao Yizhong as Fenwu Jiangjun and Xi Qiang Dadudu, settling him with his several tens of thousands of followers at Shetou in Qinghe.

Shi Hu returned to Xiangguo and proclaimed a general amnesty. The Later Zhao ruler Shi Hong ordered Shi Hu to establish a Wei headquarters, everything following the precedent of Wei Wuwang assisting the Han.

When Murong Huang first inherited the throne, his laws were harsh and severe, causing much unease among the people. The Zhubu Huangfu Zhen earnestly remonstrated, but Murong Huang did not listen.

Murong Huang’s half-brother, the Jianwei Jiangjun Murong Han, and his full brother, the Zheng Lu Jiangjun Murong Ren, were brave and resourceful, had achieved many military successes, and were deeply popular. His younger brother Murong Zhao had talent and skill. All were favored by Murong Hui. Murong Huang was jealous of them. Murong Han sighed and said: “I received orders from the late lord and did not dare not to exert myself. Fortunately, relying on the late lord’s spirit in heaven, wherever I went, I achieved success. This was Heaven helping our state, not human effort. But others think that what I accomplished shows vast talent and ambition that is hard to control. How can I sit and wait for disaster to come!” So he took his son and fled to the Duan tribe. Duan Liao had long heard of his talent and hoped to use him for his own purposes, so he greatly favored and valued him.

Murong Ren came from Pingguo to attend the funeral and said to Murong Zhao, "We have always been arrogant and have shown many disrespects to the new ruler. The new ruler is stern and strict; even without guilt, he is fearsome, so how much more so when we are guilty!" Murong Zhao replied, "We are both legitimate sons born of the principal wife and have a share in the state. Elder brother has long enjoyed the people's support, while I am still not suspected by him within the palace. If we wait for an opportunity, getting rid of him will not be difficult. Elder brother should quickly raise an army and come; I will act as an internal ally. When the matter is accomplished, divide Liaodong and give it to me. A man, when doing something, must either succeed or die; he cannot live in a foreign land like General Jianwei." Murong Ren said, "Good!" Thereupon he returned to Pingguo. In the intercalary month, Murong Ren raised an army and marched westward.

Someone reported the plot of Murong Ren and Murong Zhao to Murong Huang. Murong Huang did not believe it and sent an envoy to investigate. Murong Ren's army had already reached Huangshui when he learned that the plot had been exposed. He killed the envoy, turned his army back, and occupied Pingguo. Murong Huang ordered Murong Zhao to commit suicide and sent Army Sacrificer Feng Yi to pacify Liaodong. He appointed Gao Xu as General of Guangwu and led five thousand soldiers, together with his half-brothers, General of Jianwu Murong You, Murong Zhi, General of Guangwei Murong Jun, General of Ningyuan Murong Han, and Sima Tong Shou of Liaodong, to jointly campaign against Murong Ren. They fought with Murong Ren north of Wencheng. Murong Huang’s army was severely defeated, and Murong You, Murong Zhi, and Murong Jun were all captured by Murong Ren. Tong Shou had once served as Murong Ren’s Sima, so he surrendered to Murong Ren. Former Danong Sun Ji and others occupied Liaodong City and responded to Murong Ren. Feng Yi could not enter the city and returned together with Murong Han. The Dongyi Colonel Feng Chou, Protector Yi Yi of Pingyuan, and Chancellor of Liaodong Han Jiao of Taiyuan all abandoned their cities and fled. Thus Murong Ren completely took possession of the Liaodong region; Duan Liao and the various Xianbei tribes all responded to and supported Murong Ren from afar. Murong Huang recalled the words of Huangfu Zhen and appointed him as Biejia of Pingzhou.

In the twelfth month, Guo Quan occupied Shanggui and sent an envoy to submit to Jin; Jingzhao, Xinping, Fufeng, Fengyi, and Beidi all responded to him.

Earlier, Zhang Jun wanted to borrow a route through Cheng to present a memorial to Jiankang. The ruler of Cheng, Li Xiong, did not allow it. Zhang Jun then sent Zhizhong Congshi Zhang Chun to claim vassalage to Cheng in order to borrow the route. Li Xiong pretended to agree but prepared to have bandits ambush him in the eastern gorge. A man of Shu, Qiao Zan, secretly informed Zhang Chun. Zhang Chun said to Li Xiong, "The reason my lord sent this humble servant to travel through trackless lands ten thousand li to express sincerity to Jiankang is because Your Majesty upholds loyalty and righteousness and is able to accomplish others' good deeds. If you wish to kill me, you should behead me in the marketplace and proclaim to the multitude: 'Liangzhou does not forget its former grace and sent an envoy to communicate with the Prince of Langye. The ruler is sage and the minister wise; upon discovery, he was executed.' In this way, the name of righteousness will spread far and wide, and all under heaven will fear your authority. Now, if you send bandits to kill me in the river, your authority and punishment will not be made manifest; how can you show this to the world?" Li Xiong was greatly startled and said, "How could such a thing happen!"

The Colonel of Sili, Jing Qian, said to Li Xiong, "Zhang Chun is a brave man; please keep him here." Li Xiong said, "How would a brave man be willing to stay! Try testing him with your own idea for now." Jing Qian said to Zhang Chun, "You are stout, and the weather is hot; you may temporarily send your subordinate back, while you stay a little until it cools down before leaving." Zhang Chun said, "My lord, because the emperor is wandering, the late emperor's spirit carriage has not yet been buried, the people are in dire straits, and no one is rescuing them, sent me to the capital to express our sincerity. The matter discussed is weighty and cannot be conveyed by a subordinate; if a subordinate could accomplish it, I would not have come. Even if there were a volcano or a boiling sea, I would rush to it; how could I fear heat or cold!" Li Xiong said to Zhang Chun, "Your lord’s reputation overshadows the world; his terrain is perilous, his soldiers strong. Why does he not also proclaim himself emperor and enjoy himself in his region?" Zhang Chun said, "My lord, from his grandfather onward, for generations has been steadfastly loyal and righteous. Because the enmity and shame have not yet been washed away, he sleeps on his weapons and awaits the dawn. What enjoyment is there to speak of!" Li Xiong was deeply ashamed and said, "My grandfather was also a minister of Jin. Encountering the great chaos under heaven, I took refuge in this province with the people of six commanderies. Pushed forward by the multitude, I have come to this day. If the Prince of Langye can revive the great Jin in the Central Plains, I too will lead my troops to assist him." Thereupon he generously gifted Zhang Chun and sent him off. Zhang Chun ultimately completed his mission and reached Jiankang.

When Chang’an fell, the Jili of Dunhuang, Geng Fang, entered Jiangdong from Hanzhong and repeatedly submitted memorials requesting that an envoy be sent to pacify Liangzhou. The imperial court appointed Geng Fang as Acting Shishu Yushi, appointed Zhang Jun as General of the West, Commander-in-Chief, and selected Jia Ling of Longxi and eleven others to accompany him. Geng Fang reached Liangzhou, but the road was impassable. He entrusted the imperial edict to Jia Ling, who disguised himself as a merchant and delivered it. In this year, Jia Ling finally arrived in Liangzhou, and Zhang Jun sent Buqu Du Wang Feng and others to return and express gratitude.

In spring, the first month, the Zhao kingdom changed the reign title to Yanxi. The Jin court issued an edict appointing Guo Quan as General of the West, Inspector of Yongzhou. The King of Quchi, Yang Nandi, died, and his son Yang Yi succeeded him, proclaiming himself General of the Dragon and Leopard, Left Xianwang, and Duke of Xiabian; he appointed his uncle Yang Jiantou’s son Yang Pan as General of the Champion, Right Xianwang, and Duke of Hechi, and sent envoys to submit to Jin. In the second month, on the day Dingmao, the Jin court issued an edict sending Geng Fang and Wang Feng to carry seals and ribbons to confer on Zhang Jun the titles of Grand General, Commander of Military Affairs in the regions West of the Pass, Yongzhou, Qinzhou, and Liangzhou. From then on, envoys came and went every year without interruption.

Murong Ren appointed his Sima Zhai Kai as Acting Dongyi Colonel and former Pingzhou Biejia Pang Jian as Acting Liaodong Chancellor. Duan Liao sent troops to attack Tuhe but failed to capture it. He then sent his younger brother Duan Lan together with Murong Han to attack Liucheng. The Commandant of Liucheng, Shi Cong, and the City Lord, Mu Yu Ni, defended it with combined strength. Duan Lan and the others failed to capture it and withdrew. Duan Liao was greatly angered and severely reprimanded Duan Lan and the others, ordering them to take Liucheng at all costs. After resting for twenty days, they again increased their troops and attacked. The soldiers all wore thick armor, held shields, and made flying ladders, assaulting from all sides simultaneously day and night without stopping. Shi Cong and Mu Yu Ni’s defense became even firmer; they killed over a thousand enemy soldiers and ultimately could not be taken. Murong Huang sent Murong Han and Sima Feng Yi and others to jointly rescue. Murong Huang admonished Murong Han, saying, "The enemy’s momentum is strong; do not engage them in direct battle!" Murong Han was brave and decisive by nature; he led over a thousand cavalry as the vanguard and advanced straight ahead. Feng Yi tried to dissuade him, but Murong Han would not listen. They encountered Duan Lan at Niugu Valley. Murong Han’s army was severely defeated, with more than half dead; Feng Yi reformed the ranks and fought fiercely, barely escaping.

Duan Lan wanted to take advantage of the victory to press the pursuit, but Murong Han, fearing this would destroy his own state, stopped him, saying, "As a general, one must be cautious, examine oneself, and assess the enemy. Do not act unless it is a sure plan. Now, although we have defeated their flanking troops, we have not shaken their main force. Murong Huang is resourceful and good at setting ambushes. If he leads the entire state’s forces to oppose us personally, we, a lone army deep in enemy territory, would be outnumbered—this is a dangerous move. Moreover, on the day we received our orders, we were seeking such a victory; if we violate orders and greedily advance, and should we fail, our merits and fame would be lost. With what face would we return to report!" Duan Lan said, "These men are already like fish in a pot; there is no other path. You are merely afraid that this will destroy your state! Now Murong Ren is in the east; if the attack succeeds, I will welcome him as the heir to the state. In the end, I will not betray you and cause the ancestral temples to lack an heir." Qiannian was Murong Ren’s childhood name. Murong Han said, "I have thrown myself into your service and have no way back; what does the survival of my state matter to me? I am only considering the great state’s interests and cherishing your fame and merit for you." Thereupon he ordered his own troops to return alone, and Duan Lan, with no choice, followed him.

In the third month, Cheng ruler Li Xiong divided Ning Province to establish Jiao Province, appointing Huo Biao as Inspector of Ning Province and Cuan Shen as Inspector of Jiao Province. Zhao Chancellor Shi Hu sent his general Guo Ao and Zhangwu Prince Shi Bin with forty thousand infantry and cavalry to march west against Guo Quan, encamping at Huayin. In the fourth month, summer, powerful families of Shanggui killed Guo Quan and surrendered. Shi Hu moved more than thirty thousand households from Qin Province to Qing and Bing provinces. Chen Liangfu of Chang’an fled to the Black Qiang and, together with the Northern Qiang king Bo Junda and others, raided Beidi and Fengyi. Zhangwu Prince Shi Bin and Le’an Prince Shi Tao joined forces to attack them, defeated them, and Bo Junda fled to Malan Mountain. Guo Ao pursued the victory but was defeated by the Qiang, suffering casualties of seven or eight out of every ten. Shi Bin and the others gathered their troops and returned to Sancheng. Shi Hu sent an envoy to execute Guo Ao. Qin Prince Shi Hong voiced complaints, and Shi Hu imprisoned him.

Murong Ren styled himself Inspector of Ping Province and Duke of Liaodong. Changsha Duke Huan Tao, in his later years, deeply feared complacency, did not involve himself in court authority, and repeatedly wished to retire, but his subordinates earnestly urged him to stay. In the sixth month, Tao Kan fell gravely ill and submitted a memorial requesting to resign his posts. He sent Senior Clerk Yin Yang to return the imperial gifts: the ceremonial staff, pennant, canopy, curved canopy, the marten-tail cap, the Grand Commandant’s seal and ribbon, and the seals, tallies, and halberds of the eight provincial inspectorships of Jing, Jiang, Yong, Liang, Jiao, Guang, Yi, and Ning. Military supplies, equipment, oxen, horses, and boats were all recorded in detailed ledgers; he sealed the storehouses and personally locked them. He entrusted his final affairs to Right Sima Wang Qianqi, appointing him as overseer to command the civil and military officials. On the day jiayin, he rode in a carriage out of the residence, went to the ferry, and boarded a boat, about to return to Changsha. Turning his head, he said to Wang Qianqi, “The old man lingers only because of you people!” On the day yimao, he died at Fanxi. Tao Kan was in the military for forty-one years; he was wise, resolute, and decisive, with meticulous observation, so no one could deceive him. Over a span of several thousand li from Nanling to Baidi, lost items were not picked up by the roadside. After his death, Minister Shangshu Mei Tao, in a letter to his relative Cao Shi, said: “Duke Tao was as keen and perceptive as Emperor Wu of Wei, and as loyal, respectful, and diligent as Zhuge Liang. Lu Kang and others were not his equals.” Xie An often said: “Though Duke Tao applied the law strictly, he always understood the meaning beyond the letter of the law.” Xie An was Xie Kun’s nephew.

Cheng ruler Li Xiong developed a poisonous sore on his head. His body had long borne many metal wounds, and when he fell ill, the old injuries all festered and ulcerated. His sons detested him and kept their distance; only Crown Prince Li Ban attended him day and night, never removing his cap or clothes, personally sucking the pus from the sores. Li Xiong summoned the Grand General, Jianning Prince Li Shou, to receive the testamentary edict to assist in governance. On the day dingmao, Li Xiong died, and Crown Prince Li Ban ascended the throne. He appointed Jianning Prince Li Shou as Supervisor of the Secretariat, entrusting all state affairs to Li Shou, Minister of Education He Dian, and Director of the Secretariat Wang Gui. Li Ban observed mourning in the palace and did not participate in any government matters.

On the day xinwei, the court bestowed upon General of the West, Pingxi, Yu Liang the title of General of the West, Zhengxi, with the authority of the ceremonial staff, and made him Commander of All Military Affairs of the Six Provinces of Jiang, Jing, Yu, Yi, Liang, and Yong, concurrently holding the posts of Inspector of Jiang, Yu, and Jing Provinces, stationed at Wuchang. Yu Liang summoned Yin Hao as Recorder and Aide. Yin Hao was the son of Yin Xian; together with Yuzhang Grand Administrator Chu Pou and Danyang Assistant Du Yi, all were renowned in Jiangdong for their refined insight, lofty bearing, skill in discoursing on the Laozi and Zhouyi, and were held in high esteem among the elegant and famous. Yin Hao was especially praised by the fashionable gentry. Chu Pou was a grandson of Chu Lüe; Du Yi was a son of Du Xi. Huan Yi once said to Chu Pou: “Jive has a Spring and Autumn Annals under his skin,” meaning that while he outwardly made no comments on right or wrong, he had praise and blame within his heart. Xie An said: “Though Chu Pou does not speak, the seasons’ full array is complete within him.”

In autumn, the eighth month, Wang Ji returned to Liaodong. The Jin court issued an edict sending Attendant Censor Wang Qi to offer sacrifices to Liaodong Duke Murong Hui, and also sent a protocol officer, Xu Meng, to confer upon Murong Huang the titles of General of the Army, Zhenjun, Inspector of Ping Province, Grand Chanyu, Duke of Liaodong, with the authority of the ceremonial staff and command over various affairs, empowered to issue appointments on imperial authority, following all precedents set for Murong Hui. When their ships reached Mashijin, both were detained by Murong Ren.

In the ninth month, on the day wuyin, Wei General, Jiangling Mu Duke Lu Ye, died. Cheng ruler Li Xiong’s son, Chariot and Cavalry General Li Yue, was stationed at Jiangyang; he came to Chengdu for the funeral. He considered Crown Prince Li Ban not to be Li Xiong’s biological son and harbored resentment. He plotted rebellion with his younger brother, Andong General Li Qi. Li Ban’s younger brother, Li Wu, urged Li Ban to send Li Yue back to Jiangyang and appoint Li Qi as Inspector of Liang Province, stationed at Jiameng. Li Ban, because Li Xiong had not yet been buried, could not bear to send them away; he treated them with complete sincerity, harboring no suspicion, and sent Li Wu to garrison Fucheng. In winter, the tenth month, on the day guihai, the first day of the month, Li Yue took advantage of Li Ban’s night-time mourning and killed him in the mourning chamber, also killing Li Ban’s elder brother, General of the Leading Army Li Du. He falsely issued an order in the name of Empress Dowager Ren, listing Li Ban’s crimes and deposing him.

Initially, Li Qi’s mother, née Ran, was of low birth; Empress Dowager Ren raised him. Li Qi was talented in many arts and had a good reputation. After Li Ban’s death, the crowd wished to install Li Yue, but Li Yue deferred to Li Qi and established him as emperor. On the day jiazi, Li Qi ascended the imperial throne. He posthumously conferred on Li Ban the title of Li Crown Prince. He appointed Li Yue as Chancellor, created Prince of Jianning, promoted Grand General Li Shou to Grand Commander, and changed his title to Prince of Han; both were made Supervisors of the Secretariat. He appointed his elder brother Li Ba as Commander of the Central Army and General of the South, Zhennan; his younger brother Li Bao as General of the West, Zhenxi, and Grand Administrator of Wenshan; and his cousin Li Shi as General of the East, Zhengdong, to replace Li Yue in garrisoning Jiangyang. On the day bingyin, he buried Li Xiong at Andu Mausoleum, with the posthumous name of Wu Emperor and temple name Taizong.

Li Shi wanted to join Li Shou in attacking Li Qi, but Li Shou did not dare to mobilize troops. Li Shi became angry and instead slandered Li Shou to Li Qi, asking that he be killed. Li Qi wanted to use Li Shou to attack Li Wu, so he did not permit it, sending Li Shou with troops to Fucheng. Li Shou first sent an envoy to inform Li Wu of the advantages and disadvantages of staying or leaving, clearing a path for him, whereupon Li Wu came to surrender. The Jin court issued an edict appointing Wang Wu as Grand Administrator of Ba Commandery. Li Qi appointed Li Shou as Inspector of Liang Province, stationed at Fucheng.

Zhao ruler Shi Hong personally carried the imperial seal and ribbon to the Wei Palace, requesting to abdicate the throne to Chancellor Shi Hu. Shi Hu said, “The great enterprise of an emperor is something the world naturally decides by public opinion. Why must you speak of it yourself?” Shi Hong returned to the palace in tears and said to Empress Dowager Cheng, “Truly none of the former emperor’s seed remains!” Thereupon the Director of the Secretariat submitted a memorial: “The Wei court requests to follow the precedents of Yao and Shun’s abdications.” Shi Hu said, “Shi Hong is foolish and benighted, lacking propriety in mourning, and unworthy to rule over the myriad states. He should be deposed—what is there to speak of concerning abdication?” In the eleventh month, Shi Hu sent Guo Yin with the ceremonial staff into the palace to depose Shi Hong as Prince of Haiyang. Shi Hong walked calmly to the carriage, his expression self-possessed, and said to the assembled ministers, “I am mediocre and foolish, unable to inherit the great line—what more is there to say!” The ministers all wept, and the palace women sobbed bitterly. The ministers went to the Wei Palace to urge Shi Hu to ascend the throne. Shi Hu said, “Emperor is a title of great virtue, which I dare not assume. For the time being, I may call myself Regent King of Zhao, She Zhao Tianwang.” He confined Shi Hong, Empress Dowager Cheng, Qin Prince Shi Hong, and Nanyang Prince Shi Hui in the Chongxun Palace and soon killed them all.

The Western Qiang Supreme Commander Yao Yizhong claimed illness and did not come to court. Shi Hu summoned him repeatedly, and only then did he come. With a stern expression, he said to Shi Hu, “I, Yao Yizhong, have always considered the Great King a hero destined by fate. How is it that, having been entrusted with assistance, you instead usurp the ruler’s position?” Shi Hu said, “How could I be pleased to do this? It is only that the Prince of Haiyang was young and might not have been able to manage the affairs of the house, so I have replaced him.” Though inwardly dissatisfied, he recognized Yao Yizhong’s honesty and did not punish him.

Shi Hu appointed Kui An as Chamberlain, Grand Commandant, and Acting Director of the Secretariat; Guo Yin as Minister of Works; Han Xi as Left Deputy Director of the Secretariat; Shen Zhong of Wei Commandery as Chamberlain; Lang Kai as Grand Master of Splendid Happiness; and Wang Bo as Director of the Secretariat. Civil and military officials were enfeoffed and appointed according to rank. Shi Hu traveled to Xindu and then returned to Xiangguo.

Murong Huang went on a punitive expedition against Liaodong. On the day jiashen, he reached Xiangping. A man of Liaodong, Wang Ji, secretly sent a letter requesting surrender. The army advanced and entered the city. Zhai Kai and Pang Jian fled on horseback alone. The counties of Jujiu and Xinchang all surrendered. Murong Huang wanted to slaughter all the people of Liaodong. Gao Xun remonstrated, saying: “The rebellion of Liaodong was truly not their original intention; they merely feared Murong Ren’s fierce power and had no choice but to obey. Now the chief culprit is still at large, and if, having just captured this city, we massacre its people, then the cities not yet taken will have no path to submission and reform.” Murong Huang then stopped. He separately moved the powerful clans of Liaodong to Jicheng. He appointed Du Qun as Chancellor of Liaodong to pacify and gather the surviving populace.

In the twelfth month, Zhu Zong, a native of Lanling and an attendant officer in Xuzhou of the Zhao state, beheaded the regional inspector Guo Xiang and surrendered with Pengcheng. The Zhao general Wang Lang attacked him, and Zhu Zong fled to Huainan. Murong Ren sent troops to raid Xinchang, but the protector of the area, Wang Yu of Xinxing, repelled them, and subsequently moved the populace of Xinchang into Xiangping.

In the spring, the first month, on the gengzi day of the new moon, the Emperor performed the capping ceremony. A general amnesty was granted, and the reign title was changed. Cheng Han and Later Zhao also issued general amnesties; Cheng Han changed its reign title to Yuheng, and Later Zhao to Jianwu. The ruler of Cheng Han, Li Qi, established Lady Yan as empress and appointed Wei General Yin Feng as Right Chancellor, and Cavalry General and Shangshu Ling Wang Gui as Minister of Instruction. The King of Later Zhao, Shi Hu, ordered his heir apparent, Shi Sui, to review memorials from the Shangshu, retaining only matters such as sacrifices to Heaven, Earth, and the ancestral temple, selection of provincial and commandery governors, military campaigns, and executions for his own handling. Shi Hu was fond of constructing palaces and towers; when the Queque Terrace collapsed, he executed the Shaofu Ren Wang, who was in charge of construction, and ordered it rebuilt on twice the original scale. Shi Sui’s wet nurse, Liu Zhi, was enfeoffed as Yicheng Jun, interfering in court authority, accepting bribes, and most of those seeking promotion came through her. Murong Huang established the positions of Left and Right Sima, appointing Sima Han Jiao and Military Sacrificial Officer Feng Yi to these posts. Minister of Instruction Wang Dao, due to physical weakness and illness, could not attend court assemblies. In the third month, on the yiyou day, the Emperor personally visited his residence, feasted with the assembled officials in the inner chambers, and performed obeisance to Wang Dao and his wife, Lady Cao. Attendant Zhong Kong Tan secretly submitted a memorial earnestly remonstrating, arguing that the Emperor had just undergone the capping ceremony and should act in accordance with ritual propriety; the Emperor heeded his advice. Kong Tan also, because the Emperor entrusted court affairs to Wang Dao, calmly advised: “Your Majesty is now of age, and your sagely brightness increases daily. You should broadly accept court officials and consult them on good governance strategies.” When Wang Dao heard this, he disliked Kong Tan and transferred him out of court to serve as Tingwei. Kong Tan, frustrated, resigned due to illness. Danyang Yin Huan Jing was fawning and glib-tongued; Wang Dao was close to and fond of him. Coinciding with Mars lingering in the constellation of the Southern Dipper for over ten days, Wang Dao said to Commander of the Guard Tao Hui: “The Dipper corresponds to Yangzhou’s territory; I should retire to avert Heaven’s censure.” Tao Hui replied: “You assist governance with bright virtue, yet you sit knee-to-knee in close conversation with Huan Jing—how can Mars retreat like this?” Wang Dao felt deeply ashamed. Wang Dao summoned Wang Meng of Taiyuan as a subordinate official and Wang Shu as a Zhongbing Shu. Wang Shu was a great-grandson of Wang Chang. Wang Meng did not focus on minor details but was known for his incorruptible simplicity, equal in reputation and close in friendship with Liu Tan of Pei. Liu Tan often praised Wang Meng as being extremely open-minded yet naturally principled. Wang Meng said: “Liu Jun understands me better than I understand myself.” At that time, those who praised refined and elegant men ranked Liu Tan and Wang Meng foremost. Wang Shu had a calm disposition; whenever guests debated fiercely in gatherings, Wang Shu remained composed. At thirty, he was still unknown, and people called him foolish. Wang Dao summoned him due to his family background. When they met, Wang Dao only asked him the price of rice in the east; Wang Shu stared wide-eyed without answering. Wang Dao said: “Wang Shu is not foolish—why do people say he is?” Wang Shu once saw that when Wang Dao spoke, everyone in the gathering praised him, and said sternly: “People are not Yao or Shun—how can everything be perfect?” Wang Dao changed his expression and apologized. The King of Later Zhao, Shi Hu, made a southern tour, reaching the Yangzi River before returning. A dozen or so roving cavalrymen reached Liyang; Liyang Grand Administrator Yuan Biao reported this in a memorial but did not specify the number of cavalry. The court was alarmed and fearful. Minister of Instruction Wang Dao requested mobilizing troops for an expedition. In the summer, the fourth month, Wang Dao was granted the titles of Grand Marshal, Jiahuangyue, and Commander-in-Chief of Expeditionary Affairs. On the guichou day, the Emperor reviewed troops at Guangmo Gate, separately ordering various generals to relieve Liyang and to garrison Cihu, Niu’zhu, and Wuhu; Sikong Xi Jian sent Guangling Chancellor Chen Guang to lead troops into the capital for defense. Soon, it was learned that the Later Zhao cavalry were few and had already left; on the wuwu day, martial law was lifted, and Wang Dao relinquished the Grand Marshal post. Yuan Biao was dismissed for reckless and false reporting. Later Zhao’s General of Expeditionary Forces, Shi Yu, attacked Huan Xuan at Xiangyang but failed to capture it. A severe drought occurred; in Kuaiji and Yuyao, the price of rice reached 500 cash per dou. In the autumn, the seventh month, Murong Huang established his son Murong Jun as heir apparent. In the ninth month, the King of Later Zhao, Shi Hu, moved the capital to Yecheng and issued a general amnesty. Initially, the Later Zhao ruler Shi Le, because the Heavenly Indian monk Fotudeng had repeatedly accurately predicted successes and failures, respectfully served him. By the time Shi Hu succeeded, he served him even more reverently, bestowing upon him robes of fine silk and brocade and an ornately carved chariot. On court assembly days, the heir apparent and the various dukes supported him up the hall, and the presiding officer announced “Great Monk,” whereupon all present rose. Shi Hu ordered Sikong Li Nong to inquire about his daily life morning and evening, and the heir apparent and dukes paid homage every five days. The people, influenced by this, largely took up Buddhism. Wherever Fotudeng was, no one dared to spit or blow their nose in his direction. People competed to build temples and shave their heads to become monks. Shi Hu, because of the mixture of genuine and false among them, and some evading taxes and corvée or committing crimes, issued an edict asking Zhongshu: “Buddhism is what the state reveres. Among the common people in the alleys without rank or office, should they be allowed to serve Buddhism?” Zhuzuo Lang Wang Du and others discussed: “The king’s sacrifices have complete ritual regulations. Buddhism is a foreign god, not for the Son of Heaven or the Chinese states to sacrifice to or serve. The Han dynasty began its propagation, only allowing Western Region people to establish temples and worship in the capital; Han people were not permitted to become monks. This was also the case during the Cao Wei period. Now, we should prohibit officials from the dukes and ministers down from going to temples to burn incense or worship; those Zhao people who have become monks should all revert to their original attire.” Shi Hu issued an edict saying: “I was born in a remote borderland, unworthily occupying the position of Chinese ruler; regarding sacrifices, I should follow my own ethnic customs. Those Yi and Zhao commoners who are willing to serve Buddhism are specially permitted.” Later Zhao’s Prince of Zhangwu, Shi Bin, led 20,000 elite cavalry and troops from Qin and Yong provinces to campaign against Bojuda, pacifying the rebellion. The maternal uncle of Cheng Han’s heir apparent, Li Ban, Luo Yan, together with the Chancellor of Han, Tianshui man Shangguan Dan, secretly plotted to kill the ruler of Cheng Han, Li Qi, and install Li Ban’s son. The matter was discovered; Li Qi killed Luo Yan, Shangguan Dan, and Li Ban’s mother, Luo. Li Qi, thinking himself successful, slighted all the old ministers, trusted Shangshu Ling Jing Qian, Shangshu Yao Hua, Tian Bao, and Zhong Changshi Xu Fu, among others. Major matters such as punishments and rewards were all decided by these few, with little further consultation with the dukes and ministers. Tian Bao had no other talents; he had once urged the ruler of Cheng Han, Li Xiong, to establish Li Qi as heir apparent, so he was favored. Consequently, the legal code deteriorated and fell into chaos, and the foundation laid by Li Xiong began to decline. In the winter, the tenth month, on the yimo day of the new moon, a solar eclipse occurred. Murong Ren sent Wang Qi and others back south. Wang Qi and his party took the sea route to Jicheng, but Wang Qi encountered wind and failed to arrive. In the twelfth month, Xu Meng and others reached Jicheng, and Murong Huang began to accept the court’s appointments. The Duan and Yuwen tribes each sent envoys to Murong Ren, who lodged outside the city of Pingguo. Murong Huang’s Zhangxia Du Zhang Ying led over 100 cavalry along a secret path in a surprise attack, killing over ten of the Yuwen envoys and capturing the Duan envoys alive before returning. That year, the mother of Emperor Ming of Jin, Jian’an Jun Xun, died. Xun had been in the palace, honored like an empress dowager; an edict posthumously awarded her the title of Yuzhang Commandery Jun. The King of Dai, Tuoba Yihuai, because Helan Aitou was disrespectful, planned to summon and kill him, but all the tribes rebelled. The King of Dai, Tuoba Gena, entered from the Yuwen tribe, and the tribes again honored him. Tuoba Yihuai fled to Yecheng, where the Later Zhao people treated him generously. Initially, Zhang Gui and his two sons, Zhang Shi and Zhang Mao, though they held the Hexi region, saw no year without military campaigns. By the time Zhang Jun succeeded, the region gradually became stable. Zhang Jun diligently governed affairs, commanded civil and military officials, and employed their talents; the people were prosperous, the army strong, and those near and far praised him, considering him a wise ruler. Zhang Jun sent General Yang Xuan to campaign against Qiuci and Shanshan; consequently, the Western Regions states, such as Yanqi and Yutian, all came to court at Guzang. Zhang Jun built five palaces south of Guzang City, and his officials all addressed him as subject. Zhang Jun had ambitions to annex Qin and Yong provinces; he sent Senate Attendant Qu Hu to submit a memorial, stating: “Shi Le and Li Xiong are dead; Shi Hu and Li Qi have followed in rebellion. The people are far from their ruler, generation after generation; the elders have withered and passed away, and the younger generation is unfamiliar, so their thoughts of longing and remembrance grow distant and forgotten daily. I request that Sikong Xi Jian and Expeditionary General Yu Liang and others lead troops along the Yangzi and Mian rivers, advancing simultaneously from head to tail.”

In the spring, in the first month, on the xinsi day, a comet appeared between the constellations Kui and Lou. Murong Huang was about to attack Murong Ren. Sima Gao Xun said, "Murong Ren has betrayed and abandoned his lord and kin, inciting the wrath of both gods and men. Previously the sea never froze, but since Murong Ren rebelled, it has frozen for three consecutive years. Moreover, Murong Ren is solely defending against a land route; perhaps Heaven intends for us to take advantage of the frozen sea to launch a surprise attack." Murong Huang followed his advice. All the officials considered walking on the ice dangerous and argued for an advance by land. Murong Huang said, "My plan is already decided. Whoever dares to obstruct it will be executed!" On the renwu day, Murong Huang led his younger brother, Army General Murong Ping, and others east from Changli, advancing across the ice for over three hundred li. Reaching Lilin Kou, they abandoned their baggage and marched lightly straight toward Pingguo. When they were seven li from the city, scouts reported to Murong Ren, who came out in a desperate battle. Earlier, when Zhang Ying had captured the two envoys, Murong Ren regretted not pursuing them relentlessly. When Murong Huang arrived, Murong Ren thought he had again sent a detached force on a light raid for plunder, not realizing Murong Huang had come personally. He said to his attendants, "This time, they won't get even a single horse back!" On the yiwei day, Murong Ren deployed his entire army northwest of the city. Murong Jun led his troops in surrendering to Murong Huang, and Murong Ren's forces became demoralized and wavered. Murong Huang seized the opportunity to unleash his troops and attacked, inflicting a great defeat. Murong Ren fled, but his personal guards all rebelled, and he was captured. Murong Huang first executed the rebellious personal guards, then ordered Murong Ren to die. Ding Heng, You Yi, Sun Ji, and others, all trusted and favored by Murong Ren, were seized and executed. Wang Bing committed suicide. Murong You, Murong Zhi, Tong Shou, Guo Chong, Zhai Kai, and Pang Jian all fled east; Murong You turned back halfway. Murong Huang's troops caught up with Zhai Kai and Pang Jian and executed them. Tong Shou and Guo Chong fled to Goguryeo. The remaining officials and commoners implicated by Murong Ren were all pardoned by Murong Huang. Gao Xun was enfeoffed as the Marquis of Ruyang.

In the second month, Minister of Works Wang Bin died. On the xinhai day, the Emperor went to the palace hall and sent envoys to prepare the six rites to marry Du Lingyang, daughter of the late Marquis of Dangyang, Du Yi, as Empress. A general amnesty was declared. All officials came to offer congratulations.

In the summer, in the sixth month, Duan Liao sent General of the Central Army Li Yong to attack Murong Huang. Li Yong went straight to Wuxing, but Colonel Zhang Meng attacked and captured him. Duan Liao separately sent Duan Lan to lead several tens of thousands of infantry and cavalry to encamp west of Liucheng at Huishui. Yuwen Yidougui attacked Anjin to support Duan Lan. Murong Huang led fifty thousand infantry and cavalry toward Liucheng, and Duan Lan fled without a fight. Murong Huang turned his troops north toward Anjin, and Yuwen Yidougui abandoned his baggage and fled. Murong Huang sent Sima Feng Yi with light cavalry in pursuit, inflicting a great defeat. Murong Huang said to his generals, "These two enemies, ashamed to return without success, will surely come again. We should set an ambush near Liucheng to await them." He then sent Feng Yi to lead several thousand cavalry to ambush them at Mount Madou. In the third month, Duan Liao indeed led several thousand cavalry on a raid. Feng Yi unleashed his troops, attacked, and routed them, killing their general Rong Bobao.

The former Chamberlain for the Capital, Kong Tan, died. When Kong Tan was gravely ill, Bing Bing visited him and wept. Kong Tan said with great spirit, "When a great man is about to die, you do not ask about plans to aid the state and pacify the people, but instead weep facing each other like children!" Bing Bing deeply apologized to him.

In the ninth month, Murong Huang sent Senior Administrator Liu Bin and concurrently Prefect of the Household Secretariat, the Liaodong man Yang Jing, to escort Xu Meng and others back to Jiankang.

In winter, in the tenth month, the Inspector of Guangzhou, Deng Yue, sent Supervisor of Protectors Wang Sui and others to attack Yelang and Xinggu, capturing them both. The court added to Deng Yue the post of Inspector of Ningzhou.

The ruler of Cheng, Li Qi, because his nephew, Minister of Works and Duke of Wuling, Li Zai, had talent, became jealous, falsely accused him of plotting rebellion, and had him executed.

In the eleventh month, an edict ordered General Who Establishes Military Merit, Si Ma Xun, to lead troops to pacify Hanzhong. The Cheng-Han king, Li Shou, defeated him. Li Shou then installed a commandery governor and prefect in Hanzhong, garrisoned Nanzheng, and returned.

Suotou Yujie led his tribesmen, thirty thousand people, to surrender to Later Zhao. Later Zhao appointed Yujie and twelve others as Kings Close to Zhao and dispersed their tribesmen among six provinces such as Ji and Qing.

The King of Zhao, Shi Hu, constructed the Grand Military Hall at Xiangguo and the Eastern and Western Palaces at Yecheng. In the twelfth month, they were all completed. The foundation of the Grand Military Hall was two zhang and eight chi high, sixty-five bu from north to south, and seventy-five bu from east to west, built with patterned stone. An underground chamber was dug beneath the hall to house five hundred guards. The roof tiles were lacquered, with gold eaves-tiles, silver pillars, pearl curtains, and jade walls, exhausting every skill. The hall was furnished with a white jade bed and a canopy bed with tassels, decorated with golden lotus flowers on the canopy. Behind the hall, nine palaces were built, and the daughters of officials and commoners were selected to fill them; over ten thousand wore pearls and jade and dressed in embroidered silk. The palace women were taught to observe celestial phenomena and to ride and shoot. Female Grand Historians were appointed, along with various acrobats and artisans, all the same as outside the palace. One thousand female cavalry served as an honor guard, all wearing purple silk headbands, fine brocade trousers, gold and silver filigree belts, five-colored patterned boots, holding feather standards, playing music and beating drums, following him on his travels and feasts. At this time, there was a great drought in Later Zhao; one jin of gold could only buy two dou of millet, and the people cried out in hunger. Yet Shi Hu continued his military campaigns without cease, and all kinds of forced labor arose simultaneously. He sent the Gate General Zhang Mi to transport the bronze bells, the Nine Dragons, the Bronze Men, the Bronze Camels, and the Feilian from Luoyang to Yecheng, loading them on four-wheeled carts with bound rims; the cart ruts were four chi wide and two chi deep. One bell sank into the Yellow River. He recruited three hundred men skilled in diving, who went into the river, tied the bell with bamboo ropes, and used one hundred oxen with windlasses to pull it out. He also built ten-thousand-hu boats to transport them. When they arrived at Yecheng, Shi Hu was overjoyed, and for this reason, he remitted sentences of two years, rewarded officials with grain and silk, and granted the common people one degree of noble rank. He also adopted the suggestion of the Director of the Imperial Workshop, Xie Fei, to cast stones into the Yellow River south of Yecheng to build a flying bridge. The project cost tens of thousands of millions of cash, the bridge was never completed, and the laborers were starving, so it was abandoned. He sent county magistrates and prefects to lead the people into the mountains and marshes to gather acorns and fish to supplement their food, but these were seized by the powerful and influential, and the common people got nothing.

Earlier, the chieftain of the Rinan barbarians, Fan Zhi, had a slave named Fan Wen, who often accompanied merchants traveling to China. Later, he went to Linyi and taught the king of Linyi, Fan Yi, how to build city walls, palaces, and tools. Fan Yi came to love and trust him, making him a general. Fan Wen then slandered Fan Yi's sons; some were exiled, some fled. That year, Fan Yi died. Fan Wen pretended to welcome Fan Yi's son from another state, poisoned him with wine made from coconuts, and killed him. Fan Wen then set himself up as king. He then led troops to attack Dajiaoje, Xiaojiaoje, Shipu, Xulang, Qudu, Ganlu, Fudan, and other states, destroying them all. He gathered a force of forty to fifty thousand men and sent envoys to present a memorial and tribute.

The Left Director of the Palace Workshop of Later Zhao, Cheng Gongduan, made a torch-basket on a pole, over ten zhang high, with an upper tray for the torch and a lower tray for a person to stand on. The King of Zhao, Shi Hu, tested it and was delighted.

In the spring, in the first month, on the gengchen day, the Grand Guardian of Zhao, Kui An, and over five hundred other civil and military officials entered the court to present the title. They lit the torch in the courtyard; oil poured into the lower tray, burning over twenty people to death. The King of Zhao, Shi Hu, found this inauspicious and had Cheng Gongduan executed by waist-cutting. On the xinsi day, Shi Hu, following the systems of the Yin and Zhou dynasties, proclaimed himself Grand King of Zhao, ascended the throne at the southern suburb, and declared a general amnesty. He established his queen, Zheng, as Heavenly King Empress, his heir apparent, Shi Sui, as Heavenly King Crown Prince, demoted all his other sons who were kings to commandery dukes, and demoted members of the imperial clan who were kings to county marquises. All officials were enfeoffed and appointed according to rank.

The Libationer of the National University, Yuan Huan, and the Grand Master of Ceremonies, Feng Huai, because Jiangdong was gradually becoming stable, requested the establishment of schools. The Emperor of Jin, Cheng, followed their advice. On the xinmao day, the Imperial Academy was established, and students were recruited. However, the scholar-officials revered the teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi, and Confucian studies ultimately did not flourish. Yuan Huan was the great-grandson of Yuan Huan.

In the third month, Murong Huang built a fortress east of Yiliancheng to pressure Yilian, leaving the General Who Breaks Armies, Lan Bo, to garrison it. In the summer, in the fourth month, Duan Liao used several thousand carts to transport grain to Yilian. Lan Bo attacked and seized the grain. In the sixth month, Duan Liao again sent his cousin, General Who Displays Military Might, Qu Yun, to lead elite cavalry in a night attack on Murong Huang's son, Murong Zun, at Xingguocheng. Murong Zun defeated them.

Initially, Yang Yu of Beiping successively served Duan Jie Lu Ju and Duan Liao across five generations, receiving respect and preferential treatment from all. Duan Liao repeatedly attacked and fought with Murong Huang, and Yang Yu admonished him, saying: “‘To be close to virtue and treat neighboring states amicably is the treasured instruction of a state.’ Moreover, the Murong clan has intermarried with us for generations, being cousins and uncles; Murong Huang possesses talent and virtue, yet we have incurred enmity with him. Every month there is warfare, the common people are exhausted and impoverished, and the benefits gained are insufficient to offset the harm. I fear that the state’s troubles will begin from this. I hope both sides can repent of past errors and restore harmony as before, so as to stabilize the state and give rest to the people.” Duan Liao did not heed this and sent Yang Yu away as the Chancellor of Beiping.

The Crown Prince of Zhao, Shi Sui, had always been valiant. King Shi Hu of Zhao favored him and often said to his ministers: “The Sima family father and son, and brothers, killed each other, which is why I could obtain the realm; with me, is there any principle for killing A Tie (Shi Sui’s childhood name)?” Soon after, Shi Sui became arrogant, lascivious, cruel, and tyrannical. He delighted in adorning beautiful women, then cutting off their heads, washing off the blood, placing them on platters, and passing them around with his guests; he also boiled their flesh and ate it together with them. The Duke of Hejian, Shi Xuan, and the Duke of Le’an, Shi Tao, were both favored by Shi Hu, and Shi Sui regarded them as enemies. Shi Hu indulged in wine and women, and his moods were unpredictable. He had Shi Sui review the memorials from the Imperial Secretariat; whenever Shi Sui reported something, Shi Hu would become angry and say: “Such trivial matters, how are they worth reporting?” At times, when he did not hear Shi Sui’s reports, he would become angry again and say: “Why did you not report?” He would curse and whip him, up to two or three times a month. Shi Sui secretly said to the Central Cadet Li Yan and others: “The Lord (referring to Shi Hu) is difficult to serve. I want to emulate the actions of Modu Chanyu (killing his father to establish himself). Will you follow me?” Li Yan and the others prostrated themselves and dared not answer. In autumn, the seventh month, Shi Sui claimed to be ill and did not attend to state affairs. Secretly leading over five hundred civil and military officials and retainers from his palace, he rode horses to Li Yan’s separate residence to drink. Thereupon, he said to Li Yan and others: “I am going to Jizhou to kill the Duke of Hejian, Shi Xuan. Anyone who does not follow will be executed!” After going several li, the cavalry all scattered and fled. Li Yan kowtowed and strongly admonished him, and Shi Sui, being drunk, returned. His mother, Lady Zheng, heard of this and secretly sent a eunuch to reprimand Shi Sui; Shi Sui became angry and killed the eunuch. Fotucheng said to Shi Hu: “Your Majesty should not go to the Eastern Palace too often.” Shi Hu had intended to visit Shi Sui’s illness, but remembering Fotucheng’s words, he returned. Shortly after, Shi Hu glared and shouted: “I am the sovereign of the realm; can I not trust even between father and son!” Thereupon, he sent his trusted female steward to investigate. Shi Sui called her forward to speak, then took the opportunity to draw his sword and stab her. Shi Hu was greatly enraged, arrested Li Yan and others for interrogation, and Li Yan explained the situation in detail. Shi Hu killed Li Yan and over thirty others. He confined Shi Sui in the Eastern Palace, but soon pardoned him and received him in the Taiwu Eastern Hall. Shi Sui paid court to Shi Hu without apologizing, and left after a moment. Shi Hu sent someone to tell him: “The Crown Prince should go to pay respects to the Empress; why leave in such haste!” Shi Sui went straight out without looking back. Shi Hu, in great anger, deposed Shi Sui and made him a commoner. That very night, he killed Shi Sui and his consort, Lady Zhang, along with their twenty-six sons and daughters, burying them all in one coffin. He executed over two hundred of Shi Sui’s palace officials and partisans. He deposed Empress Zheng and made her the Grand Dowager of the East Sea. He established his son Shi Xuan as the Crown Prince of the Heavenly King, and Shi Xuan’s mother, Duchess Zhao, as the Empress of the Heavenly King.

Hou Ziguang of Anding claimed to be the Buddha’s son, saying he came from the Great Qin state and should become king in the Lesser Qin state. He gathered several thousand people at Dushan, proclaimed himself the Great Yellow Emperor, and changed the era name to Longxing. Shi Guang campaigned against him and executed him.

In the ninth month, the General of the Pacification Army and Left Chief Clerk Feng Yi and others urged Murong Huang to style himself the King of Yan; Murong Huang agreed. Thereupon, he fully established the hundred officials, appointing Feng Yi as Chancellor, Han Shou as Minister of War, Pei Kai as Minister of Sacrifices, Yang Wu as Commandant of the Capital, Wang Yu as Grand Coachman, Li Hong as Grand Judge, Du Qun as Prefect of the Palace, Song Gai, Liu Mu, and Shi Cong as Chief Stewards, Huangfu Zhen and Yang Xie as Attendant Cavaliers, Song Huang, Ping Xi, and Zhang Hong as Generals, and Feng Yu as Recorder Supervisor. Li Hong was the grandson of Li Zhen; Song Huang was the son of Song Shi. In winter, the tenth month, on the Dingmao day, Murong Huang assumed the throne of the King of Yan and granted a general amnesty. In the eleventh month, on the Jiayin day, he posthumously honored his father, Wuxuan Gong Murong Hui, as Wuxuan King, and his mother, Lady Duan, as Wuxuan Empress; he established his consort, Lady Duan, as Queen, and his heir-apparent, Murong Jun, as Crown Prince, following the precedent of Emperor Wu of Wei and Duke Wen of Jin assisting in the government.

Duan Liao repeatedly raided the borders of Zhao. The King of Yan, Murong Huang, sent the General of the Yanglie Army, Song Hui, to Zhao to declare his vassalage, requesting troops to campaign against Duan Liao, and offered to lead all the forces of his state to join the Zhao army. He also sent his younger brother, the General of the Ningyuan Army, Murong Han, as a hostage. King Shi Hu of Zhao was greatly pleased, generously consoled and replied, declined the hostage, sent Murong Han back, and secretly agreed to dispatch troops the following year.

In this year, the Zhao general Li Mu escorted Tuoba Yihuai to Daining, and most of Tuoba Yihuai’s former tribe submitted to him. The acting King of Dai, Tuoba Gena, fled to Yan. The people of Dai again honored Tuoba Yihuai as the King of Dai, and Tuoba Yihuai built a city at Shengle and resided there.

Yang Chu, the elder cousin of Yang Yi, the Di King of Chouchi, attacked and killed Yang Yi, annexed his followers, established himself as the Duke of Chouchi, and declared himself a vassal of Zhao.