#mu huai hu

[somanykdramas]

THE IMPERIAL CORONER

GENRES: Historical, Mystery, Romance

SUMMARY: A capitol city Judicial Investigator and a small-town coroner use their spectacular sills to solve a years-long imperial mystery.

THIS SHOW HAS EVERYTHING: Witch doctors, hand-made chess pieces, hidden maps, ciphers, autopsies, interrogations, hidden lineages, found families, poisons, intellectual courtships, caves, coins, misguided trust, vindictive eunuchs, and playboys.

HOT TAKE: I have to say that my only complaint about this show is that a lot of the same-language ADR was a little subpar to the point where most scenes lost a lot of their natural environmental ambiance.

Besides this production snafu, the sets were immaculate, even the tertiary characters were engaging, and gosh darn-it the wee romances were just super adorable. I found myself stuck to each and every episode and as long as you can keep track of the dozens of characters, the plot holds quite a few surprises!

By far the fastest c-drama I've binged to-date!

[reinaka42]

Wang Chuan Feng Hua Lu (忘川风华录) Masterpost

Wang Chuan Feng Hua Lu (忘川风华录) is a Vocal synth (Vocaloid and SynthV) music project. It consists of songs themed around different figures throughout Chinese history. The project is a collaboration between different artists and creatives, with music and videos featuring prominent traditional Chinese elements. The project's title translates to "The Records of Magnificence of the Wangchuan" - In Chinese mythology, "Wangchuan" (or River of Forgetting) is a river in the Underworld that can rid one of their past life's memories, similar to the river Lethe.

A mobile game adaptation has also been developed by NetEast. Unfortunately, I haven't played it so I can't give much insight on it. However, I assume that its premise is similar to that of the idea behind the project as a whole: all these historical figures meeting each other in the Underworld after they died. Maybe.

You can find all the songs on Bilibili. The official Weibo can be found here. The game's website, which includes all characters appearing so far in the game, can be found here, and its Weibo can be found here.

(If you prefer YouTube, I've also put together a handy playlist. Please know that most of these videos are reposts though, so please watch the original Bilibili MVs if you can!)

This blog is where I will be posting everything I feel like I need to say about the songs in this project. A lot of it is lifted from my Twitter account but will be in much more detail. Note that I probably won't touch collab songs, or songs that don't focus solely on the project's own characters.

Disclaimer: I do not speak Chinese, nor am I an expert on Chinese history. Therefore, I cannot reliably translate the lyrics to these songs, nor my words should be taken as gospel. I am merely a nerd gushing about my hyperfixation.

Playlist

多情岸 【Duo Qing An】 ➼ B link

洛阳怀 【Luo Yang Huai】 ➼ B link

易水诀 【Yi Shui Jue】 ➼ B link

山河令 【Shan He Ling】 ➼ B link

簪花人间 【Zhan Hua Ren Jian】 ➼ B link

栖凰 【Qi Huang】 ➼ B link

心上秋 【Xin Shang Qiu】 ➼ B link

祖龙吟 【Zu Long Yin】 ➼ B link

如见青山 【Ru Jian Qing Shan】 ➼ B link

竹林间 【Zhu Lin Jian】 ➼ B link

天下局 【Tian Xia Ju】 ➼ B link

青鸟衔风 【Qing Niao Xian Feng】 ➼ B link

木兰行 【Mu Lan Xing】 ➼ B link

好字唯之 【Hao Zi Wei Zhi】 ➼ B link

不可道 【Bu Ke Dao】 ➼ B link

水叙湖风 【Shui Xu Hu Feng】 (collab) ➼ B link

是非 【Shi Fei】 ➼ B link

风起甘露 【Feng Qi Gan Lu】 (collab) ➼ B link

谓剑 【Wei Jian】 ➼ B link

万象霜天 【Wan Xiang Shuang Tian】 (New Year event song) ➼ B link

千秋梦 【Qian Qiu Meng】 ➼ B link

易安难安 【Yi An Nan An】 ➼ B link

惊鹊 【Jing Que】 ➼ B link

高歌破阵 【Gao Ge Po Zhen】 (collab) ➼ B link

不赴 【Bu Fu】 ➼ B link

西行 【Xi Xing】 ➼ B link

大航海家 【Da Hang Hai Jia】 ➼ B link

牡丹乱 【Mu Dan Luan】 (collab) ➼ B link

倾国 【Qing Guo】 (collab) ➼ B link

相虎 【Xiang Hu】 ➼ B link

补天裂 【Bu Tian Lie】 ➼ B link

此期盈期 【Ci Qi Ying Qi】 (1st anniversary song) ➼ B link

破云来 【Po Yun Lai】 ➼ B link

归钓吟 【Gui Diao Yin】 ➼ B link

始见千秋 【Shi Jian Qian Qiu】 ➼ B link

临川浮梦 【Lin Chuan Fu Meng】 ➼ B link

将军行 【Jiang Jun Xing】 ➼ B link

妄语人间 【Wang Yu Ren Jian】 ➼ B link

数风流 【Shu Feng Liu】 (2nd anniversary song) ➼ B link

问剑春秋 【Wen Jian Chun Qiu】 ➼ B link

起战令 【Qi Zhan Ling】 ➼ B link

人间应又雪 【Ren Jian Ying You Xue】 ➼ B link

旷古回响 【Kuang Gu Hui Xiang】 ➼ B link

墨隐侠声 【Mo Yin Xia Sheng】 ➼ B link

桃源故人 【Tao Yuan Gu Ren】 (3rd anniversary song) ➼ B link

燕双归 【Yan Shuang Gui】 ➼ B link

拜云台 【Bai Yun Tai】 ➼ B link

思华年 【Si Hua Nian】 ➼ B link

承天 【Cheng Tian】 ➼ B link

*Note: The anniversary songs are probably for the game's anniversaries, as the project itself is more than 5 years old.

Albums

Vol 1: 溯洄 【Su Hui】 Includes character songs from Duo Qing An to Zhu Lin Jian. Features human vocals.

Vol 2: 踏浪 【Ta Lang】 Includes character songs from Tian Xia Ju to Yi An Nan An + Shui Xu Hu Feng.

Vol 3: 数风流 【Shu Feng Liu】 Includes character songs from Bu Fu to Yan Shuang Gui, and the two anniversary songs.

Visual character guide:

PRE-QIN | QIN | WESTERN CHU | HAN | THREE KINGDOMS | JIN | NORTH & SOUTHERN DYNASTIES | TANG | FIVE DYNASTIES & TEN KINGDOMS | SONG | YUAN | MING | QING | DREAM

[eyenaku]

Ji ji fu ji ji

a o e i i er ai ei ao ou an en ang eng ong i ia iao ie iu ian in iang ing iong u ua uo uai ui uan un uang ueng ü üe üan ün a o e er ai ao ou an en ang eng yi ya yao ye you yan yin yang ying yong wu wa wo wai wei wan wen wang weng yu yue yuan yun b ba bo bai bei bao ban ben bang beng bi biao bie bian bin bing bu p pa po pai pei pao pou pan pen pang peng pi piao pie pian pin ping pu m ma mo me mai mei mao mou man men mang meng mi miao mie miu mian min ming mu f fa fo fei fou fan fen fang feng fu d da de dai dei dao dou dan den dang deng dong di diao die diu dian ding du duo dui duan dun t ta te tai tei tao tou tan tang teng tong ti tiao tie tian ting tu tuo tui tuan tun n na ne nai nei nao nou nan nen nang neng nong ni niao nie niu nian nin niang ning nu nuo nuan nü nüe l la le lai lei lao lou lan lang leng long li lia liao lie liu lian lin liang ling lu luo luan lun lü lüe g ga ge gai gei gao gou gan gen gang geng gong gu gua guo guai gui guan gun guang k ka ke kai kei kao kou kan ken kang keng kong ku kua kuo kuai kui kuan kun kuang h ha he hai hei hao hou han hen hang heng hong hu hua huo huai hui huan hun huang z za ze zi zai zei zao zou zan zen zang zeng zong zu zuo zui zuan zun c ca ce ci cai cao cou can cen cang ceng cong cu cuo cui cuan cun s sa se si sai sao sou san sen sang seng song su suo sui suan sun zh zha zhe zhi zhai zhei zhao zhou zhan zhen zhang zheng zhong zhu zhua zhuo zhuai zhui zhuan zhun zhuang ch cha che chi chai chao chou chan chen chang cheng chong chu chua chuo chuai chui chuan chun chuang sh sha she shi shai shei shao shou shan shen shang sheng shu shua shuo shuai shui shuan shun shuang r re ri rao rou ran ren rang reng rong ru rua ruo rui ruan run j ji jia jiao jie jiu jian jin jiang jing jiong ju jue juan jun q qi qia qiao qie qiu qian qin qiang qing qiong qu que quan qun x xi xia xiao xie xiu xian xin xiang xing xiong xu xue xuan xun

[kdram-chjh]

Cdrama: The Imperial Coroner (2021)

Gifs of Ending of cdrama “The Imperial Coroner”

ENG SUB【御赐小仵作 The Imperial Coroner】EP01 楚楚应考，过关斩将折服安郡主（苏晓彤、王子奇）

Watch this video on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrFYLbM5HDU

[theannypetite]

Batch #18: Mystery BL

It's been a while since I posted anything, but here's a batch of some Mystery-ish BL titles I wrote about while procrastinating reading SVSSS.

It’s been a while since I posted a batch. Or anything at all. It’s not been a lot of posts this year, but here is another one nonetheless and it’s not SVSSS, although I will post reviews of volumes 3 and 4 sooner rather than later. Believe it or not, mystery and crime are honestly my fav genres, aside from historical fiction, so it’s probably odd I don’t write about more mystery titles. But I’m…

[gravitydefyingtears]

Danmei Roundup

I suddenly realized that ever since MDZS opened the doors, I’ve steadily gone through a good amount of danmei. 👀 Since I’m apparently doing anything except write my final paper, I compiled a list of stories I’ve come to know either through their novels or audio drama adaptations (or both). Any of them look familiar? lol

Adding/updating the list as I go + highlighting some of my favs.

Period Fantasy: Wuxia, Xianxia

人渣反派自救系统 — 墨香铜臭 (Scum Villain’s Self-Saving System — Mo Xiang Tong Xiu) *system/transmigration*

魔道祖师 — 墨香铜臭 (Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation — Mo Xiang Tong Xiu)

天官赐福 — 墨香铜臭 (Heaven Official’s Blessing — Mo Xiang Tong Xiu)

铜钱龛世 — 木苏里 (Copper Coins — Mu Su Li)

二哈和他的白猫师尊 — 肉包不吃肉 (Dumb Husky and His White Cat Shizun — Meatbun Doesn’t Eat Meat)

Sci-Fi/Survival (? idk what 无限流 is called)

全球高考 — 木苏里 (Global Examination — Mu Su Li)

地球上线 — 莫晨欢 (The Earth is Online — Mo Chen Huan)

Modern Setting

Crime/Mystery

犯罪心理 — 长洱 (Criminal Psychology — Chang Er) 

默读 — Priest (Silent Reading — Priest)

破云 — 淮上 (Breaking Through the Clouds — Huai Shang)

皮囊 — 潭石 (Skin — Tan Shi) 

Gaming

你师父我人傻钱多 — 莫晨欢 (Your Shifu is Stupid Rich — Mo Chen Huan)

网恋翻车指南 — 酱子贝 (How to Fail at Online Dating — Jiang Zi Bei)

你亲我一下 — 引路星 (Give Me a Kiss — Yin Lu Xing) *celebrity* 

Schoolyard Romance

我喜欢你的信息素 — 引路星 (I Like Your Pheromones — Yin Lu Xing) *abo*

伪装学渣 — 木瓜黄 (Fake Slackers — Mu Gua Huang)

信息素说我们不可能 — 毛球球 (The Pheromones Say We've Got No Chance — Mao Qiu Qiu) *abo* 

Celebrity/Entertainment Business

我嗑了对家X我的CP — PEPA (I Ship My Adversary x Me — PEPA)

情敌每天都在变美 — 公子于歌 (My Love Rival is Getting Prettier Every Day — Gongzi Yu Ge) *system/transmigration*

我只喜欢你的人设 — 稚楚 (I Only Like Your Persona — Zhi Chu)

营业悖论 — 稚楚 (Fanservice Paradox — Zhi Chu) *boy group*

小行星 — 微风几许 (Little Asteroid — Wei Feng Ji Xu) *abo*

落池 — 余酲 (Falling Into the Pond — Yu Cheng)

迪奥先生 — 绿野千鹤 (Mr. Dior — Lv Ye Qian He) *crack/amnesia*

职业替身 — 水千丞 (Professional Body Double — Shui Qian Cheng) *rebirth*

没钱 — 吕天逸 (Broke — Lv Tian Yi) *system/supernatural*

营销号说你喜欢我 — 螽斯 (Clickbait Media Accounts Say You Like Me — Zhong Si)

Supernatural/Fantasy

论以貌取人的下场 — 月下蝶影 (The Consequences of Judging a Book by Its Cover — Yue Xia Die Ying)

我开动物园那些年 — 拉棉花糖的兔子 (Those Years I Opened a Zoo — La Mian Hua Tang de Tu Zi) *system*

临时保镖 — 绿野千鹤 (Last-Minute Bodyguard — Lv Ye Qian He)

Slice-of-Life/Other

飞鸥不下 — 回南雀 (Flying Gulls Never Land — Hui Nan Que) *adopted brothers*

安知我意 — 北南 (Know My Heart — Bei Nan)

刺青 — 不问三九 (Tattoo — Bu Wen San Jiu)

燎原 — 不问三九 (Wildfire — Bu Wen San Jiu) 

烧不尽 — 回南雀 (Eternal Burning — Hui Nan Que)

腹黑和腹黑的终极对决 — 羲和清零 (Behind the Scenes Hunter — Xi He Qing Ling) *corporate battle*

… … …

And then there are some more I started to various extents:

这题超纲了 — 木瓜黄 (Beyond the Outline — Mu Gua Huang) *schoolyard*

不要在垃圾桶里捡男朋友 — 骑鲸南去 (Don’t Pick Up Boyfriends from the Trash — Qi Jing Nan Qv) *transmigration/system*

魔尊也想知道 — 青色羽翼 (Mo-Zun Also Wants to Know — Qing Se Yu Yi) *period fantasy/system*

可爱过敏原 — 稚楚 (Adorable Allergen — Zhi Chu) *schoolyard/adopted brothers*

欢迎来到噩梦游戏 — 薄暮冰轮 (Welcome to the Nightmare Game — Bo Mu Bing Lun) *sci-fi/transmigration/survival?*

恶性依赖 — 金刚圈 (Unhealthy Attachment — Jin Gang Quan) *modern*

营养过良 — 芥菜糊糊 (Nutrition Overload — Jie Cai Hu Hu) *cats*

S.C.I. 谜案集 — 耳雅 (S.C.I. Mystery — Er Ya) *crime/mystery*

嚣张 — 巫哲 (Audacious — Wu Zhe) *schoolyard* 

穿成反派总裁小情人 — 林盎司 (Transmigrated as the Villain CEO’s Little Lover — Lin Ounce) *transmigration/entertainment business*

一不小心和醋精结婚了 — 一枚纽扣 (My Accidental Husband is Full of Vinegar — Yi Mei Niu Kou) *modern*

碎玉投珠 — 北南 (Sui Yu Tou Zhu — Bei Nan) *80s/90s setting*

兼职无常后我红了 — 拉棉花糖的兔子 (After I Started Working as a Wu Chang, I Became Popular — La Mian Hua Tang de Tu Zi) *modern/supernatural*

新时代，新地府 — 林知落 (New Times, New Hell — Lin Zhiluo) *supernatural/modern/crack*

两A相逢必有一O — 厉冬忍 (When Two As Meet, There Must Be One O — Li Dong Ren) *abo/schoolyard*

破云2：吞海 — 淮上 (Swallow the Sea — Huai Shang) *crime/mystery* 

[bookofjin]

Annals of Taihe 23 (499)

[From WS007. The end of an era.]

23rd Year, Spring, 1st Month, wuyin, New Moon [28 January], at court the crowd of subject, as the Emperor's illness was cured, sent up their long-life wishes. A great banquet at the Chengluan Hall.

On renwu [1 February], favoured Ximen Bao's Shrine. Thereupon went past Zhang River and turned back.

Xiao Baojuan dispatched Grand Commandant Chen Xianda to rob Jing province.

On guiwei [2 February], decreed the General of the Van, Yuan Ying to chastise them.

On yiyou [4 February], the Chariot Drove to issue out from Ye.

On wuxu [17 February], arrived from Ye.

On gengzi [19 February], reported to the temple and the altar of soil

On guimao [22 February], acted out the rite of drinking to the arrival and recording the achievements.

On jiachen [23 February], a great amnesty Under Heaven.

The Grand Guardian, the King of Qi commandery, Jian, passed away.

2nd Month, xinhai [2 March], used the Senior Combined Grand Commandant, the King of Xianyang, Xi, as Principal Grand Commandant.

On guihai [14 March], used the Great General of the Central Army, the King of Pengcheng, Xie, as Minister over the Masses. Restored the King Leling, Siyu, to his original fief.

On guiyou [24 March], Xianda, attacked and captured Maquan Defence Post.

3rd Month, gengchen [31 March], the Chariot Drove on a southern offensive.

On guiwei [3 April], stayed at Liangcheng.

On jiashen [4 April], since Shunyang was being besieged, and was imperilled and hard-pressed, decreed the General who Exerts the Martial, Murong Pingcheng, to lead 5 000 cavalry and hurry to them.

On bingxu [6 April], the Emperor was not at ease. The Minister over the Masses,  the King of Pengcheng, Xie attended on the illness within the forbidden quarters, and moreover administered the hundred measures.

On dingyou [17 April], the Chariot Drove to arrive at Maquan. Decreed the Great General who Conquers the South, the King of Guangyang, Jia, to break off Junkou, and intercept Xianda's return path.

On wuxu [18 April], fought again and again, and routed him. That night, Xianda, and Cui Huijin, Cao Hu, and others escaped in the dark.

On jihai [19 April], gathered their armaments and numbering in the millions, and distributed and bestowed on the Six Armies.

The various generals pursued the runners and caught up with them at the Han River. The beheaded, the captured, and those went into the river and died where eight or nine out of ten. Beheaded Baojuan's General of the Left Army, Zhang Yuda, and others. The thieves' generals Cao Daofu and Chenggong Qi led several ten thousand people to abandon Shunyang to escape and flee.

On gengzi [20 April], the Emperor was very ill. The Chariot Drove north to stay at Gutang Source.

On jiachen [24 April], decreed to bestow on the August Empress, Ms. Feng, death.

Decreed the Minister over the Masses, Xie, to summon the Heir-Apparent to Luyang to tread upon the eastern steps.

Decreed to use the Palace Attendant, General who Protects Army, the King of Beihai, Xiang, as the Minister of Works Excellency; the General who Garrisons the South, Wang Su, as the Prefect of the Masters of Writing, the Great Gneeral who Garrisons the South, the King of Guangyang, Shou, as Supervisor of the Left of the Masters of Writing; the Master of Writing Song Bian as Master of Writing of the Personnel Section. They together with the Palace Attendant, the Grand Commandant Excellency Xi, and Supervisor of the Right of the Masters of Writing, the King of Rencheng, Cheng, and others were the six people to assist the government.

The backward looking instructions to the stewards and assistants said:

Verily, you, Grand Commandant, Minister of Works, Prefect of the Masters of Writing, Supervisors of the Left and Right, and Master of Writing of the Personnel Section, in particular our Grand Founder's legacy of magnificent majesty, together with the four majesties [?], equal in blossoming, amassed the sage' esteemed clarity, and assembled a vast succession among deficient and lacklustre.

Cautious and careful, fearful and frightened, [We] pondered and assembled thus the sage's neglectful tracks. [We] moved the capital to the Song Eminence, settled the tripods at the He and Chan, numerous times went south to wash away Ou and Wu, restoring to propriety to the ten thousand states, so as to look up to the brilliant seven temples, and bow down to help the blue-green life.

Hemmed in by adversity[ We] did not all the way through therefore make records. Excellencies and Dignitaries, should [you] excel at supporting the continuing son, prosper our House of Wei, is it not also good? [How] can [you] not put effort into it!

Summer, 4th Month, bingwu, New Moon [26 April], the Emperor collapsed at the Acting Palace of Gutang Source, at the time he was aged 33.

It was kept secret and hidden, when they arrived at Luyang they issued out the mourning, and turned back to the Imperial City. The Sovereign [venerated him with] the posthumous title Filial and Civil [xiaowen] August Emperor, and temple title Exalted Founder [gaozu].

5th Month, bingshen [15 June], he was buried at Changling [the “Long Mound”].

The Emperor as a young child had an extreme nature. When he was aged 4 sui, Xianzu once suffered from an abscess. The Emperor personally sucked out the pus himself. At 5 sui when he accepted the abdication, he wept sadly and was not able to surpass himself. Xianzu asked the Emperor about it, the Emperor said:

The feelings of replacing the parent on the inside cuts to the heart.

Xianzu considerably praised and marvelled at him.

Empress Dowager Wenming considered the Emperor's astute sageness later perhaps would not be advantageous to the Feng clan, and wanted to plan to depose the Emperor. Therefore in the cold month [she?] shut [him?] up in his room with a single set of clothes, and cut off the food for three mornings. She summoned the King of Xiangyang, Xi, and wanted to install him. Yuan Pi, Mu Tai, and Li Chong firmly remonstrated, and she therefore desisted. The Emperor at first was not resentful, but only was deeply gracious to Pi and others.

He comforted and kept in mind his various younger brothers, and from beginning to end never was sparing with assistance. He was genuinely friendly with the nine kin, his courtesy and respectfulness was altogether deep. Although with the great subjects he wielded the law and was not indulgent, he was by nature broad-minded and compassionate, and always was sympathetic and forgoing.

Those advancing with food once wounded the Emperor's hand with hot soup, and also once within the food he found worms and unclean things. In both cases he smiled and forgave them. The eunuchs [?] had previously slandered the Emperor to the Empress Dowager, the Empress Dowager was greatly angered and caned the Emperor several tens of times. The Emperor silently accepted it, and did not explain and clarify himself.

After the Empress Dowager collapsed, he likewise did not harden his mind [?]. When listening to and looking over government affairs, he never did not follow the good like [water] flows. He felt sympathy and compassion with the hundred families, and constantly pondered the means by which to aid and profit [them].

The rites of Heaven and Heart, the Five Suburbs, Ancestral Temples, and the Two Equinoxes [?], he  regularly and invariably personally [did] himself, and did not get bored with it due to cold or hot.

When the Masters of Writing put memorials on the table, he very much searched out and scrutinized [them] himself. Of the hundred officials, great and small, there was nothing he did not keep in mind, [but] he applied himself to the pervasive and universal. He always told:

In all cases, to be a lord of people is to be bothered with unfairness, and not being able to push forward sincerity in managing things. In all cases, to be a lord of people is to be bothered with unfairness, and not being able to push forward sincerity in managing things. If one always is able to be fair and sincere, the people of the Hu and Yue likewise can be intimate like brothers.

He regularly in idle indifference spoke to the history officials, saying:

Straightly write down the affairs of the times without concealing the state's ugliness. A lord of people's awesome beneficence derives from himself, [if] historians then do not write it down what might there be to afraid of?

On the southern and northern campaigns and tours, there were ministers memorialising to request the Way of government. The Emperor said:

Roughly repair arches and bridges, and in general with carriages and horses make convenient halts. It is not necessary to get rid of [?] the grass and scrape off to make it flat. In all cases when there are repairs or construction, [if it is] not possible to avoid it, then do it. Do not make affairs of what is not urgent diminish the people's strength.

When he toured to favour South of the Huai, and went to be inside [that] land, army affairs made it necessary to cut down people's trees, he invariably kept behind tabby silk so as to recompense them straightly. And people's rice plants and millet were without damage from trampling.

There variously were restrictions and prohibitions, and methods for warding off and suppressing that were not set down by the standard records, as one they were all removed and done away with.

He was elegant and excellent at reading books, his hands did not let go of the scroll. The Five Classics's right principles he adopted and readily discussed. When studying he did not follow what was accepted, [but] searched for their essence and inner recesses. Of the histories, traditions, and hundred schools, there was nothing he did not fully wade through. He was good at conversing about the Zhuang and Lao, and particularly focused on explaining their righteousness.

He had a talent for eloquence and was rich in diction, he excelled at making literal compositions. Poetry, rhapsodies, inscriptions and songs of praise, he had confidence in his mood and then made them. He had a great a literal brush, when on top his horse he gave oral conferrals, and when they were completed he did not change a single word. From the 10th Year of Taihe and afterwards, the decrees and records were all the Emperor's writings. His other literal compositions where more than a hundred chapters.

He was fond of and marvelled at excellent scholars, feeling like he was starving and thirsty. He received and admitted the court's worthies, followed talent in making light of or putting weight in [someone], and often relied hence on the thoughts of the plain and simple. He relaxedly strode forward in the dark [?], and did not consider the generation's pursuits to wrap around his heart.

Also as young he was good at shooting, and was physically strong. Aged ten sui, he was able to snap his fingers to break a goat's shoulder bones. And when he shot birds or beasts, he never did not follow with killing what he aimed for. Reaching aged fifteen, he readily did not again kill the living, the affairs of shooting and hunting completely stopped.

He was by nature frugal and simple, regularly dressed in clothes that were rinsed and washed, and his saddle and bridle were [made of] iron and wood, and that was all. The Emperor's refined aspirations were all of this kind.

Your Subject the Historian says: Wei at first was founded in Dai and Shuo, broadly pacified the Southern Xia, developing the region through the generations. Altogether they considered awesome martial ability as their legacy, the affairs of civil teachings there was not yet time to spare for.

Gaozu as a young child inherited the vast thread, and soon displayed the manners of an astute sage. At the time, since Wenming administered affairs, he loose and leisurely respected himself, mysteriously observed solitary possession, put forth himself and did not talk, a godly pact being signalled, firmly thereby a symbol for unseen transform.

Reaching him personally controlling the great government, in a single day there was ten thousand moments, and in the space of ten or so years made no allowance for leisure. Different paths had similar ends, and a hundred thoughts had a single effect.

To the furthest extent  when what is difficult for the living people is acted on [?], it is the exalted footprints of human relationships, and even when honourably dwelling in the yellow chamber, [one should?] wholly step in them.

Suppose then [one] admiringly clarifies and examines antiquity, and in unison steers Heaven and Man, emperors and kings craft and create, court and countryside conform with the measures, [those] who pour from the pot make use of houses, how dazzling are his literal compositions, and the living people within the seas altogether accepts the bestowal of ears and eyes.

By apply accordingly outstanding talent and great strategies, to be fond of and marvel at excellent scholars, to look on subordinates as if they were wounded, and labour oneself for the benefit of living beings, also [those who?] have not gotten it will then praise it. For he who was the warp and woof of Heaven and Earth, how empty is a posthumous title!

[minmotl]

Chapter 28: Sui Zhou Finds Out Just What A Glutton Tang Fan Is

Context: Follows directly after Chapter 27. For plot notes, scroll to the bottom.

Introduction Post | Masterpost

--

Highlights under the cut

Sui Zhou doesn’t know how he should face Tang-daren.

Looking at someone who possesses the talent of the top imperial scholar, while he wasn’t able to rank first in the end, he was still ranked in the top four amongst the nation’s scholars and was personally presented with a merit award by His Majesty. If he wrote something on Confucius like the Interpretation of the Analects or wrote an analytical piece on Zhu Zi, that counts as an extension of his studies and is an appropriate use of his talents, but what is Tang Fan doing now by writing erotica fiction?

Tang-daren smiles at him, not one bit ashamed. In fact, he’s proud of it, “My salary is low, so I’m just earning some money from the royalties. Guang Chuan, you do not have to be so surprised. Other than you, no one else knows that I wrote this, but this book was commercially printed by the publishers. A total of a thousand copies! It’s selling pretty well.”

Sui Zhou is now completely interested. He takes the single book out and says, “I will read this.”

“That’s great! Since you’ve accepted my book, I have something I’d like to trouble you with.”

Sui Zhou raises an eyebrow in question.

Tang Fan thinks that since Sui Zhou has accepted his book, he can now trouble the man to do something small for him, “How about you go outside and help me to pick the leaves from the locust tree?”

“…”

Does he think this is an exchange of favours? After being ridiculous for half a day, the other has not given up on eating cold noodles?

He truly is the world’s largest glutton!

Tang-daren naturally does not think so. He believes that it is fated for someone like him, who lives a riveting life filled with fun and enjoyment, to come and rescue the fool that is Sui Zhou. Just look at them now, since Tang Fan joined Sui Zhou here, the other man’s life is now filled with light.

In the end, he doesn’t manage to eat the Huai Ye Tao that has been constantly on his mind. This is because Sui Zhou brings the both of them out to a restaurant for a meal instead.

There is no Huai Ye Tao cold noodles, but there are crabs marinated with orange and steamed prawns, and the prawns were just caught from the river. While not as fresh and sweet as prawns caught from the sea, these aren’t bad at all - peeling off the prawn shells and dipping them into soy sauce with sesame oil and added minced garlic, this is truly one of the joys of life.

Tang-daren is eating with satisfaction and a sense of happiness washes over him, “Guang Chuan, that we can live so happily amongst the noise and bustle of life, watching as life happens before us as we eat, this is a freedom that we may not even have even if we begged for it. This is a form of enjoyment, enough for us to sit down and slowly savour.”

Tang Fan is easy to please, he’s not like the other officials who are exceedingly stubborn and rigid, difficult to interact with, and he’s definitely not like the plenty of other people in the world who lust after gold, property, huge salaries, unlimited power or beautiful women.

From Sui Zhou’s cold, stoic gaze, a little bit of warmth shines through. He shakes his head and says, “Even if it is a rest day, I stay at the Northern Administrative Court and look through records usually and rarely come out. Otherwise, having been promoted to baihu at my age, if I don’t work harder, people will think that I rose up in the ranks because of my connections.”

Tang Fan exclaims, “Whatever others like to think, that’s their business. We only have a pair of hands each between us and none of us can shut up so many mouths. As long as our conscience is clear, we should just enjoy ourselves when we can.”

What he said is very reasonable and Sui Zhou is about to reply, but Tang-daren changes the topic abruptly, “What’s that, later get the restaurant to pack two portions of cold dishes, we can eat that for supper at night.”

Sui Zhou stares at him, his face void of any expression.

Tang-daren blinks, “Then just one portion, that’s okay right?”

Ah Dong was unable to resist and is already covering her mouth, laughing so hard she’s collapsed at the side.

With one more Sui Zhou and one Ah Dong, Tang-daren originally thought that he could live a life of happiness without having to do any housework, but he did not expect that he found himself two old mothers who like to constantly manage him, especially when it comes to food. They’re so strict that Tang-daren can only look at the snacks and sigh.

However, in general, living like this is still pretty enjoyable. After all, every day when he returns home there is always one or two people waiting fo you. You can have a meal where there are plenty of hot, teaming dishes, you can be greeted with smiling faces, hear someone asking after your day. His sister is married and stays far away from here, but now it’s as if Tang Fan has two more people in his family, the feeling is entire different.

To Ah Dong who used to be with the Li family, while Lady Zhang treated her rather well and Ah Chun was very willing to take care of her, but she was still a servant and not meant to enjoy her life. There was a difference between her and those above her, as lively and energetic as she was she could not be do anything she wanted without control, and that’s why she liked running over to find Tang Fan. Now that she has recognised Tang Fan as her older brother, the feeling of having a family is indescribable. When she first moved to Sui Zhou’s house, she was so excited that she couldn’t sleep properly the first few days.

It’s not just Tang Fan and Ah Dong. Although Sui Zhou does not say it, he’s going home more frequently, the time that he reaches home getting earlier and even when it’s his rest days, he does not stay in the Northern Administrative Court anymore. From this, it seems that his thoughts are likely to be similar to Tang Fan’s.

***

“Da-ge, da-ge!”

His sleeve is shaken a few times and Tang Fan breaks out of his trance, seeing Ah Dong looking at him with confusion.

“What is it?”

“Da-ge, what are you thinking about? I kept calling for you but you didn’t respond, you scared me!” the young girl pats at her chest, and then points at Sui Zhou, who has just walked in from outside, “Sui da-ge is back, we can have dinner!”

Tang Fan frowns “Guang Chuan, regarding the Li family’s case, I thought of something and I’m about to tell you what I know, I’m afraid I’ll have to trouble you and the Northern Administrative Court again.”

Sui Zhou nods, “Let’s eat first.”

Ah Dong brings out the dishes with a spring in her step, and agrees, “That’s right, let’s just eat first, I’m about to die from starvation!”

Sui Zhou pats at Tang Fan’s arm, “We’ll talk after we eat.”

Although the words are simply and Sui Zhou’s tone is even, from this, Tang Fan feels that he can confidently trust in Sui Zhou. Tang Fan does not realize that his expression relaxes almost immediately at that.

He nods, and then smiles at Sui Zhou, “It’s all because of Ah Dong today that we can finally have some Huai Ye Tao, I’ve been craving it for so long!”

Ah Dong protests, “Da-ge you’ve got a lot of face to say this, you almost fell after climbing the tree, and to catch you, I almost broke my bones!”

“…”

Sui Zhou thought that after bringing Tang Fan to eat outside, the man would have given up on having the cold noodle dish, but who knew that Tang-daren would make use of his time while suspended from work and staying idly at home to actually climb a tree to pick the leaves himself.

Sui Zhou finally understands what a glutton’s fixation on food is.

===

Plot Notes:

If you haven’t read the introduction you should! Link is at the top of this post. In the introduction I mention Li Man, who is Tang Fan’s original landlord before he moves in with Sui Zhou, and also one of the big bads in the novel, working as a member of the White Lotus Sect.

The case that follows these few chapters is basically Li Man getting arrested and imprisoned for killing his wife, Lady Zhang. Tang Fan originally manages to arrest him for the murder, but then he realizes that something is amiss with Li Lin, Li Man’s only son who Tang Fan knows to be a good kid with a good temperament. After Li Man is arrested, Li Lin’s personality takes a turn for the worse and Tang Fan in the previous chapters is rather perplexed about this, but brushed it off somewhat, until Li Man kills himself in prison in this chapter, and he writes Tang Fan’s name on the wall as if accusing him of being responsible for his death. Because of this, Tang Fan is temporarily suspended from work while investigations continue.

Tang Fan solves the mystery at the end of this chapter — he determines that Li Man and Li Lin swapped places due to how similar they looked, i.e. Li Lin, his son, went into prison for his father, Li Man (yes some suspension of disbelief here). He also realizes that Li Lin wrote his name on the wall as a clue for him to beware of the current Li Man who is still alive and free, impersonating as Li Lin.

Li Man manages to escape with his mistress in the next two chapters, and he’ll turn up again in the next or next next segment! It’s pretty thrilling and amazing the next time he turns up, and Tang Fan and Sui Zhou are faced with a life-or-death situation in a cave and that’s when Sui Zhou realizes his feelings for Tang Fan so!!!

===

Notes:

*百户 bai hu

There are four ranks within the Embroidered Uniform Guards - 千户 (qian hu)、百户 (bai hu)、总旗 (zong qi)、小旗 (xiao qi) arranged highest to smallest rank, aside from the Commander 统领官 (zong ling guan).

*木头 mu tou

Literally means wooden block. Used as a metaphor for a person who’s dumb, rigid, boring or someone who’s not flexible in thinking.

*槐叶冷淘 huai ye leng tao

The novel names it huai ye tao, this is a historic cold noodle dish.

*十指不沾阳春水 shi zhi bu zhan yang chun shui

A line from an ancient poem, it means that someone is able to skip laundry duties in the winter in March due to the cold weather. What this actually means is that a person was born into a good family and has the fortune to not have to wash their clothes personally, or do house chores. This is usually used to describe females.

*眼睛里流露出一抹笑意 yan jing li liu lu chu yi mo xiao yi

This is frequently used for Sui Zhou in the novel and I’m putting a note in here because this is pretty interesting. What this literally means is that in Sui Zhou eyes, a smile is revealed/emerges. In Chinese we take it to mean that he’s smiling and the smile is reflected in his eyes, I’ve translated this to Sui Zhou either smiling or exuding warmth in his gaze, both of which are of course not quite accurate, but you can see why a literal translation would be strange.

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[중국 노래 추천]영화 "소년반" 주제곡 "你曾是少年"(넌 소년이었어)

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[중국 노래 추천]영화 "소년반" 주제곡 "你曾是少年"(넌 소년이었어)

  어머머…

S.H.E가 드디어 다시 합체를 했어용!!!

그 이유는 바로 곧 개봉 할 영화 “소년반(少年班)”의 주제곡을 부르기 위해서랍니다…

그동안 솔로 데뷔한 Hebe의 슬픈 노래로 S.H.E에 대한 그리운 마음을 달랬었는데,

이번에 드디어 완벽한 S.H.E의 목소리를 다시 듣게 되어 너무 행복하네요~

  점점 닮아가는 그 때 그 시절의 “소녀”들.

  Selina, Hebe 그리고 Ella 세 명의 귀엽고 발랄한 소녀로 구성된 S.H.E 그룹 , 한때 정말 인기 많았던 여성 그룹이었죠.

한국처럼 그룹 가수가 많지 않았던 중국에서 S.H.E(대만)나 Twins(홍콩)는 정말 보석같은 존재 였어요.

그 중에서도 랑랑이는 S.H.E 를 가장 좋아했는데, 친구랑 같이 노래방에 가면 양정여나 S.H.E의 노래는 항상 애창곡이었던 시절이 있었죠.

친구와 함께 돼지 멱따는 소리로 S.H.E의 “난 어른이 되고 싶지 않아(不想长大)”를 목청껏 불렀던 그 시절,

너무 그립네요…~~

  S.H.E 그룹명은 사실 세명의 멤버, Selina, Hebe, Ella의 이름 이니셜을 따서 만들었답니다.

2000년에 대만의 오디션 프로에 출연하게 되면서 캐스팅이 되어, 그 이듬해인 2001년 S.H.E란 이���으로 연예계에 정식으로 데뷔했었죠.

S.H.E가 불렀던 노래 중 인기곡이 진짜 많았는데요, “Super Star”, “페르시아 고양이”, “난 어른이 되고 싶지 않아”, “중국어”… 정말 끝이 없겠어요.

  왼쪽->오른쪽 : Hebe, Ella, Selina

  S.H.E가 연예계에서 승승장구하면서, 크고 작은 사고가 잇달아 발생 했었는데요,

 2011년 Selina가 상하이에서 드라마를 찍다가, 폭발 사고가 일어나면서 심한 화상을 입게 되었죠.

이 사고로 하여 Selina, 그리고 S.H.E의 앞날에 엄청난 영향을 받게 되죠.

  Selina가 한동안 활동을 중단 하게 되면서, S.H.E의 모든 계획 또한 무산되었죠.

그 후 Selina는 남자친구와 결혼 선언을 하면서  당분간 연예계 활동을 쉬게 되었고,

 Hebe는 솔로 앨범을 내게 되고, Ella는 계속 드라마 영역에서 활동을 하면서

세 명의 멤버들은 뿔뿔이 흩어지게 되었답니다. 공식적으로 해체 선언을 하지는 않았지만 말이죠.

  그리고 2012년, 세명의 완전체가 드디어 함께 무대에 오르게 되는데요, 새로운 앨범도 냈다고 해요.

어느덧 세 명의 멤버 중 두명은 이미 유부녀가 되었고… 랑랑이도 유부녀가 되었고…

크고 작은 시련을 많이 겪었지만 끝까지 서로의 손을 놓지 않고 다시 꿋꿋하게 합치게 된 그녀들의 용기와 우정에 박수를 쳐주고 싶네요.

가창력과 상관 없이, 그녀들의 노래를 들으면 항상 가슴이 먹먹 해지고 따뜻해 지는 느낌이 들어요.

이렇게 내가 살아있다는 것 만으로 너무 행복 해 지는 느낌이 들게 하죠.

  항상 같은 곳을 바라보는 그런 친구, 여러 분 옆에도 그런 친구가 있나요?

  그리고 이번에 이렇게 또 반가운 소식이 …

2015년 6월19일 개봉 예정인 영화 “소년반”의 주제곡을 부르게 된 S.H.E,

곡이 공개 되자마자 인터넷을 다시 핫하게 달군 그녀들,

솔직히,

노래는

…

  ​정말 정말 좋아요!!!

  영화 “소년반”(The Ark of Mr. Chow )은 1998년의 중국을 배경으로, 5명의 천재소년의 성장 이야기를 그린 영화 랍니다. 천재소년의 성장이라, 뇌섹남에 대한 이야기네요. 뇌의 성장판이 빨리 열리면, 빨리 닫히지 않을까란 엉뚱한 생각이 드는건 왜 일까요? ㅋㅋㅋ 여튼, 소재가 좀 특이한데, 왠지 재미 있을 것 같네요. 빨리 보고 싶당…!

  영화 “소년반”

영화 “소년반” 출연자  

  한때 소년이었던 너와 나의 그때 그 시절을 추모하기 위한 곡이라고 생각이 드네요.

가사가 너무 감동적이에요.

  “넌 소년이었어”란 곡은 영화 감독 샤오양(肖洋)이 1주일 동안 고민 끝���, 결국 2시간만에 작사를 마친 곡인데요, 가사를 보시면 아시겠지만,

청춘, 젊음에 대한 추억들을 담담하게 적은 가사라, 너무 공감이 가고 가슴에 와 닿는 것 같아요. 그리고 이 곡을 S.H.E가 부르게 된 이유도 흥미로운데요, 감독 샤오양의 대학교 시절 여자친구가, 그때 당시 S.H.E의 노래를 무지 좋아했다고 하더라고요. 여자친구 때문에 S.H.E란 그룹을 알게 된 샤오양 감독은 그때 부터 S.H.E의 노래를 듣기 시작했는데, “지난 십몇년동안 항상 긍정적인 이미지로 사람들에게 힘을 주었던 그룹”이라고 칭찬을 아끼지 않았답니다. 실제로 S.H.E가 부른 이 곡을 들으면서, 느낀건데 샤오양 감독의 선택이 틀리지 않았다는 것. ^^

  <번역 : 랑랑이>

你曾是少年

넌 소년이었어

  작곡 : 양즈푸(杨子朴)

작사 : 샤오양(肖洋)

노래 : S.H.E

  you xie shi hou, ni huai nian  cong qian ri zi

有些时候 你怀念从前日子

ke tian zhen li kai shi, ni que  mei shuo yi ge zi 可天真离开时 你却没说一个字

ni zhi shi hui yi hui shou, xiang reng diao fei zhi 你只是挥一挥手 像扔掉废纸

shuo shi ren sheng bi jing de shi 说是人生必经的事

jiu he dao qi fen, que you gan jue chang ran ruo shi 酒喝到七分 却又感觉怅然若失

  jing zi li mian, xiang kan dao ren sheng zhong dian 镜子里面 像看到人生终点

huo xu zai guo shang ji nian, ni ye you zhang xu wei de lian 或许再过上几年 你也有张虚伪的脸

nan dao wo men shi wei le zhe yang cai lai dao zhe shi shang 难道我们 是为了这样 才来到这世上

zhe wen ti lai bu ji xiang 这问题来不及想

mei yi tian yi nian zong shi cong cong mang mang 每一天一年 总是匆匆忙忙

  ni wo lai zi hu bei, si chuan, guang xi, ning xia, he nan, shan dong, gui zhong, yun nan de xiao zhen xiang cun 你我来自湖北四川广西宁夏河南山东贵州云南的小镇乡村

ceng jing fa shi yao zuo liao bu qi de ren 曾经发誓 要做了不起的人

que zai bei jing, shang hai, guang zhou, shen zhen, mou tian ye ban hu ran xing lai ,zhan zai ji mo de yang tang 却在北京上海广州深圳���天夜半忽然醒来 站在寂寞的阳台

zhi xiang cong zhe wu bian de ji mo zhong tao chu lai 只想从这无边的寂寞中逃出来

  xu duo nian qian ni you yi shuang qing che de shuang yan 许多年前 你有一双清澈的双眼

ben pao qi lai xiang shi yi dao chun tian de shan dian 奔跑起来 象是一道春天的闪电

xiang kan pian zhe shi jie qu zui yao yuan de yuan fang 想看遍这世界 去最遥远的远方

gan jue you shuang chi bang neng fei yue gao shan he hai yang 感觉有双翅膀 能飞越高山和海洋

  xu duo nian qian ni ceng shi ge pu su de shao nian 许多年前 你曾是个朴素的少年

ai shang yi ge ren jiu bu pa fu chu zi ji de yi sheng 爱上一个人 就不怕付出自己一生

xiang xin ai hui yong heng xiang xin mei ge mo sheng ren 相信爱会永恒 相信每个陌生人

xiang xin ni hui cheng wei zui xiang cheng wei de ren 相信你会成为最想成为的人

  xi guan shuo huang jiu shi bian cheng shu le ma 习惯说谎 就是变成熟了吗

you yi tao fang zi zhi hou cai neng qu ai bie ren ma 有一套房子之后 才能去爱别人吗

zong shi yi wei cheng gong zhi hou jiu neng fu ping shang hen 总是以为 成功之后 就能抚平伤痕

yu wang bian mai zhe cuo guo de ren 欲望边埋着 错过的人

dang qing chun hao jin zhi sheng mian mu ke zeng 当青春耗尽 只剩面目可憎

  ni wo lai zi hu bei si chuan guang xi ning xia he nan shan dong

gui zhong yun nan de xiao zhen xiang cun 你我来自湖北四川广西宁夏河南山东贵州云南的小镇乡村

ceng jing fa shi yao zuo liao bu qi de ren 曾经发誓 要做了不起的人

que zai bei jing, shang hai, guang zhou, shen zhen, mou tian ye ban hu ran xing lai, xiang bei ming yun jiao xing le

却在北京上海广州深圳某天夜半忽然醒来 像被命运叫醒了 ta shuo ni bu neng jiu zhe yang guo wan yi sheng

它说你不能就这样过完一生

xu duo nian qian ni you yi shuang qing che de shuang yan 许多年前 你有一双清澈的双眼

ben pao qi lai xiang shi yi dao chun tian de shan dian 奔跑起来 象是一道春天的闪电

xiang kan pian zhe shi jie qu zui yao yuan de yuan fang 想看遍这世界 去最遥远的远方

gan jue you shuang chi bang neng fei yue gao shan he hai yang 感觉有双翅膀 能飞越高山和海洋

xu duo nian qian ni ceng shi ge pu su de shao nian 许多年前 我曾是个朴素的少年

ai shang yi ge ren jiu bu pa fu chu zi ji de yi sheng 爱上一个人 就不怕付出自己一生

xiang xin ai hui yong heng xiang xin mei ge mo sheng ren 相信爱会永恒 相信每个陌生人

dang wo he shi jie chu xiang jian 当我和世界初相见

dang wo ceng jing shi shao nian

当我曾经是少年

    가끔은 추억속 그 시절이 그리울 때가 있어.

  넌 묵묵히 그 순수했던 시절을 떠나보내며,

  손만 흔들고 말았지. 휴지를 버리듯 간단하게…

  이건 어차피 겪어야 하는 일이라고 하면서 말이야.

  기분 좋게 취했지만, 왠지 가슴 한 구석은 허전해 지는 느낌이 들어.

    거울 속으로, 인생의 종착점이 보이는 듯 해.

  머지 않아, 너도 얼굴에 가식이란 가면을 쓰게 되겠지.

  우린 과연 이렇게 살기 위해 이 세상에 온 걸까?

  고민 하기도 전에

  세월은 황급히 떠나버렸네.

      후베이, 쓰촨, 광시, 닝샤, 허난, 산둥, 구이저우, 윈난의 작은 마을에서 온 너와 나,

우린 한때 대단한 사람이 되겠다 다짐했지만

    지금은 베이징, 상하이, 광저우, 선전에 살면서, 어느날 문득 한밤중에 자다 놀라 소스라쳐 깨어나면, 이렇게 혼자 외롭게 베란다에 서있지.

끝없는 이 고독함에서 벗어나고 싶어

    오래전, 넌 맑은 눈동자를 갖고 있었어

  봄날의 번개마냥 빨랐고 말이야.

  세상 끝까지 가고 싶어 했지.

  날개 달린 듯, 높은 산과 깊은 바다도 갈 수 있을 줄 알았어.

    오래 전, 넌 소박한 소년 이었어,

  사랑에 빠지면 모든 것을 바쳐도 후회하지 않을 정도로 말이야.

  사랑은 영원하다고 믿었고, 모든 낯선 이들에게 친절 했어.

  네가 원했던 그런 사람이 될 수 있을 거라 믿었지.

    거짓말이 늘면, 성숙해 졌다는 걸까?

  내 집이 있어야 사랑할 자격이 생기는 걸까?

  성공 하면 맘속 상처를 치유 할 수 있을 줄 알았어,

  결국 욕망에 눈이 어두워, 좋은 사람들을 놓쳤고

  젊음이 다 가고, 남은건 이 추한 몰골뿐이네.

      후베이, 쓰촨, 광시, 닝샤, 허난, 산둥, 구이저우, 윈난의 작은 마을에서 온 너와 나,

우린 한때 대단한 사람이 되겠다 다짐했지만

    지금은 베이징, 상하이, 광저우, 선전에 살면서, 어느날 문득 한밤중에 자다 놀라 소스라쳐 깨어나네.

더이상 이렇게 살면 안된다는 운명의 울부짖음에 말이야.

    오래전, 넌 맑은 눈동자를 갖고 있었어

  봄날의 번개마냥 빨랐고 말이야.

  세상 끝까지 가고 싶어 했지.

  날개 달린 듯, 높은 산과 깊은 바다도 갈 수 있을 줄 알았어

    오래 전, 나도 소박한 소년 이었어,

  사랑에 빠지면 모든 것을 바쳐도 후회하지 않을 정도로 말이야.

  사랑은 영원하다고 믿었고, 모든 낯선 이들에게 친절 했어.

  내가 처음 이 세상과 만났을 때,

  내가 아직 소년  이었을 때 말이야.

  우리 모두 소박하고, 맑은 눈동자를 갖고 있었던 소년이었 던 적이 있었죠.

아무 것도 따지지 않고 마음이 시키는대로 갔던,

그런 순수한 시절이 우리 모두에게 있었죠.

  그러다 언젠가부터는 거짓말이 더 익숙 해 지고,

가식이란 가면을 쓰고 주위 사람들을 만나게 되고.

욕망에 눈이 어두워 가장 소중 했던 것까지 버리는…

그런 속물로 점점 전락하게 되버리죠.

  너도 나도 한때는 순수했던 소년이었는데,

다시는 돌아갈 수 없는 그때 그 시절…

너무 안타깝네요…

  <S.H.E의 넌 소년이었어 뮤직 비디오>

[bookofjin]

Annals of Taihe 21 (497)

[From WS007. The Emperor installs a new heir, visits Pingcheng and Chang’an, installs a new empress, and goes on another southern campaign.]

[Taihe 21, 18 February 497 – 6 February 498]

21st Year, Spring, 1st Month, bingshen [25 February], installed august son Ke as August Heir-Apparent. Bestowed on those Under Heaven who where their father's successor feudal rank, one grade.

On jihai [28 February], dispatched the Combined Palace Attendants Zhang Yi and Cui Guang, and trhe Combined Cavalier in Regular Attendance, Liu Zao, to tour the regions, scrutinize and investigate, ask the people about their ills and hardships, demote and promote the wardens and stewards, and circulate and spread transformation in manners.

On yisi [6 March], the Chariot Drove on a northern tour.

2nd Month, renxu [23 March], stayed at Taiyuan. Personally saw those of exalted years, and asked about their inconveniences. Decreed that the gentlemen of Bing province aged sixty and above, be provisionally considered commandery Wardens.

Before this, a commoner of Ding province, Wang Jingou told lies and mislead the multitudes, he declared himself the Fulfilling King.

On bingyin [27 March], the province and commandery arrested and beheaded him

On guiyou [3 April], the Chariot Drove to arrive at Pingcheng.

On jiaxu [4 April], paid respects at Yongguling.

On guiwei[13 April], travelled to favour Yunzhong.

3rd Month, gengyin [20 April], the Chariot Drove to arrive from Yunzhong.

On xinmao [21 April], paid respects at Jinling.

On yiwei [25 April], the Chariot Drove on a southern tour.

On jiyou [9 May], stayed at Lishi. The rebellious Hu returned [from] crime. Pardoned them.

On jiayin [14 May], decreed that the people of Fen province hundred years old and above be be provisional county Prefects, those ninety years and older be bestowed three grades of feudal rank, those eighty and older be bestowed two grades of feudal rank, those seventy and older be bestowed one grade of feudal rank.

On bingcheng [16 May], the Chariot Drove to stay at Pingyang. Dispatched envoys to use the grand sacrificial animals to worship Yao of Tang.

Summer, 4th Month, gengshen [20 May], favoured Longmen. Dispatched envoys to use the grand sacrificial animals to worship Yu of Xia.

On guihai [23 May], travelled to favour Puban. Dispatched envoys to use the grand sacrificial animals to worship Shun of Yu.

On wuchen [28 May], decreed to repair the temples of Yao, Shun, and Yu of Xia.

On xinwei [31 May], travelled to favour Chang'an.

On renshen [1 June], the King of Wuxing, Yang Jishi came to court.

On yihai [4 June], personally saw those of exalted years, and asked about their ills and sufferings.

On bingzi [5 June], dispatched attendant subjects allotted to scrutinize the counties and towns, and relieve and bestow grain and silk.

On wuyin [7 June], favoured the Weiyang [“Not at End”] Hall, and the Efang Palace. Thereupon favoured the Kunming Pool.

On guiwei [12 June], the Great General, the King of Song, Liu Chang, passed away.

On bingxu [15 June], dispatched envoys to use the grand sacrificial animals to sacrifice at the various mound s of the Han emperors.

5th Month, dinghai, New Moon [16 June], the state of Weida dispatched envoys to court with tribute.

On jichou [18 June], the Chariot Drove to turn back east, floating on the Wei to enter the He.

On gengyin [19 June], decreed the gentlemen of Yong province, hundred years old and above be provisional Grand Wardens of illustrious commanderies, ninety and above provisional wilderness commanderies, eighty and above provisional Prefects of illustrious counties, seventy and above provisional wilderness counties. For the elderly of the myriads, use the age and for each reduce with one grade, for seventy and above bestow feudal rank, three grades. For the men of its encampments and ships, bestow feudal rank, one grade. For the orphaned and solitary, the widowed and impoverished, and the poor and unfortunate, the disabled from illness, on each bestowed two bolts of silk, and five hu of grain. For its filial and brotherly, virtuous and right-principled, and the studied in literature, the talented and capable, to thoroughly look up to them, and commend and raise them up.

On renchen [21 June], dispatched envoys to use the grand sacrificial animals to worship King Wen of Zhou at Feng, and to worship King Wu at Hao.

On guimao [2 July], dispatched envoys to worship Hua Peak.

6th Month, gengshen [19 July], the Chario Drove to arrive from Chang'an.

On renxu [21 July], decreed that Ji, Ding, Ying#, Xiang, and Ji# provinces issue out 200 000 soldiers, wanting to use them for a southern chastisement.

On guihai [22 July], the Minister of Works, Mu Liang, retired from his position.

On dingmao [26 July], apportioned and allotted six hosts, so as to settle [who would] travel or stay behind.

Autumn, 7th Month, jiawu [22 August], installed Bright Companion Ms. Feng as August Empress.

On wuchen [25 September], used the former Minister of Works, Mu Liang, as Great General who Conquers the North, Opening Office with Ceremony Similar to the Three Ministers, Yi became King of Qinghe, Huai became King of Guangping.

On renshen [29 September], travelled to favour Henan City.

On jiaxu [1 October],  military exercises at Hualin Park.

On gengchen [7 October], the Chariot Drove on a southern chastisement.

9th Month, bingshen [23 October], a decree said:

To feel compassion for the poor and aid the elderly is what is first for a King. Widowers and widows with the six illnesses especially ought to be pitied and sympathized with. Can direct for the people of Si province and Luoyang, those aged seventy and above without sons or grandsons, abd those sixty and above without close relatives, who are poor and do not survive by themselves, furnish them with clothes and food. And those who are not fully sixty but yet are disabled with chronic illness, who are without relatives of great achievement, who are destitute and bereft without the means to cure themselves, for all in the different wards, dispatch doctors to save and preserve them, prove doctors. Furnish the four expert doctors, and beforehand request the medicine by which to cure them.

On dingyou [24 October],  decreed the Governor of Henan, Li Chong, to chastise the rebellious Qiang of Liang# province, and accept the authority and measures of [the General who] Conquers the West, Yuan Huai.

On xinchou [28 October], the Emperor kept behind the various generals to attack Zheyang, and guided the host and went south.

On guimao [30 October], he arrived at Wan City. He at night assaulted its outer walls and overcame them.

On dingwei [3 November], the Chariot Drove to issue out from Nanyang. Kept behind the Grand Commandant, the King of Xianyang, Xi, and the General of the Van, Yuan Ying, to attack it.

On jiyou [5 November], the Chariot Drove to arrive at Xinye.

Winter, 10th Month, dingsi [13 November], advanced on for sides to attack, but did not overcome it. Decreed the left and right armies to build a long encirclement so as to ward against  it.

On yihai [1 December], retroactively deposed August Empress Zhen, Ms. Lin, to be a commoner.

11th Month, jiawu [20 December], Xiao Luan's General of the Van Army, Han Xiufang, Grand Warden of Yiyang, Wang Fuzhi, and General of the Rear Army, Zhao Zuyue, and others, 15 generals, came to surrender.

On dingyou [23 December], greatly routed the thieves' army to the north of the Mian, and captured their General Wang Fubao and others. Hence the people were all restored to [their] patrimony. Ninety and above to provisionally be considered commandery Wardens, sixty-five and above to provisionally be considered county Prefects.

The people of Xinye who spread out to view the palisade was more than 10 000 families, they resisted and defended, and did not submit.

12th Month, gengshen [15 January], routed them, the prisoners and beheaded were more than 10 000.

On dngmao [22 January], decreed that for the criminals sentenced to banishment, for all cases must not carry out the dispatching. They were to have the chance of climbing the walls, and cause their first spears to bring forth themselves.

On gengwu [25 January], the Chariot Drove to overlook the Mian, and thereupon toured to the east of the Mian and back.

On wuyin [2 February], the Chariot Drove to return to Xinye.

On jimao [3 February], personally moved along the encampment ramparts, and grieved and cared for the Six Armies.

Xiao Luan's general Tan Fen and others, more than 10 000 people, robbed Nanqing province's Huangguo Defence Post. The Defence Master, Cui Sengyuan, struck and routed them, and thoroughly captured their multitudes.

Used the King of Qi commandery's son Chen to carry on as the King of Hejian, Ruo's descendant.

The state of Gaochang dispatched envoys to court with tribute.

[bookofjin]

Annals of Taihe 17 (493)

[From WS007. The Emperor goes on a field trip.]

[Taihe 17, 2 February 493 – 22 January 494]

17th Year, Spring, 1st Month, renzi, New Moon [2 February], the Emperor banqueted the hundred companions at the Taiji Hall.

On yichou [15 February], a decree said:

In all cases, to rapidly run to enter and pay their respects is the regular model of subjects and subordinates; to confer horses and bestow chariots is the persistent kindness of a lordly person. Now the various border lords and foreign scions all reverently assemble at the twin gate-towers, scuttling and jingling in the purple courtyard. The tribute banquet has concluded, talk of returning is never far away.

For each can rely on the hierarchy to bestow chariots, banners, clothes, and horses, and do the utmost to cause them to be bountiful and generous. Should for Wuxing and Dangcahng, on each bestow 1 000 brocades, tabby silk, and floss silk; on the Heir of Tuyuhun, 800. Heir of Dengzhi, if he follows the occasion to arrive at the capital, likewise ought to be furnished to catch up, he can be bestowed 300. Instruct the numbers proportionally, and for all rely on separate diplomas.

Decreed the Combined Outer Staff Cavalier Attendant Gentleman Liu Chengshu as envoy to Xiao Ze.

On yihai [25 February], the state of Wuji dispatched envoys to court to present.

On bingzi [26 February], used Tuyuhun Fulianchou as the king of his state.

On gengchen [2 March], waived the Grand Marshal, the King of Anding, Xiu. The Grand Guardian, the  King of Qi commandery, Jian's [requirement] on New Moon and Full Moon to go to court[?].

2nd Month, yiyou [7 March], decreed to bestow on the officials who had debated on the statutes and orders each proportionally.

On jichou [11 March], the Chariot Drove to begin the sacred field to the south of the capital.

3rd Month, wuchen [19 April], rebuilt the Rear Palace.

The Emperor favoured the Yongxing [“Forever Flourishing”] Park, and moved to hold sway at the Xuanwen Fore-Hall.

The state of Tuyuhun dispatched envoys to court to present.

Summer, 4th Month, wuxu [19 May], installed the August Empress, Ms. Feng.

This Month [2 May – 30 May], Xiao Ze's General who Conquers the Miscreants, General who is Straight and Whole, the Man chieftain Tian Yizong, led his section groups, more than 4 000 households, to belong inside.

5th Month, yimao [5 June], the various states of Dangchang, Yinping, Qidan and Kumoxi all dispatched envoys to court to present.

On renxu [12 June], banqueted the sons and grandsons of the Four Temples at the Xuanwen Fore-Hall. The Emperor personally engaged with them, and acted with the rites of family member.

On jiazi [14 June], the Emperor presided at the court hall, summoned and saw the Excellencies, Dignitaries and below, determined questions on government matters, and recorded the prisoners and convicts.

On dingchou [27 June], due to the drought did away with fine meals.

Man chieftains of Xiangyang, Lei Posi and others, led more than 1 300 households to move inside, and settle at Taihe Stream.

6th Month, bingxu [6 July], the Emperor wanted to go on a southern offensive, and decreed to build bridges on the He.

On jichou [9 July], decreed to exempt Xu, Nanxu, Xia#, Qi#, Dongxu, Luo, and Yu provinces from army provisions.

On dingwei [27 July], exercised the military.

On yisi [25 July?], a decree said:

The Six Duties are provided for in the Zhou Classics, the Nine Ranks were illuminated during Han and Jin. To do one's utmost must surely have persistent, and a man defends his duties. These hundred ranked ones, although they have been set forth, the standard of their service is not yet put in order.

Since the eight inaugural for being planted in position, [We have] personally applied scrutiny and review, for the far-away relying on former registers, for the nearby selecting what is appropriate for the times, writing the Orders for Posted Staff in 21 scrolls. Affairs compel a time for arms, and they are not yet excellently pervasive and thorough. Even though they are insufficient to manage the patterns for the ten thousand measures, they will forever come down and not decay, and moreover can release the blockages seen before us, regulating and ordering the pursuits of the times.

It is necessary to attend to the whirl of armies, and furthermore debates at the palace for the moment can be turned to outside practices and acts. Should there be those who attend to the nearby with doubts and then in the written orders they have not been set down, going along with affairs when [We] hear about it, [We] will further append to them[?].

Installed august son Xun as August Heir-Apparent.

On wushen [28 July], the state of Gaoli dispatched envoys to court to present.

Autumn, 7th Month, guichou [2 August], since the August Heir-Apparent had been installed, decreed to bestow on those commoners who were persons in his rear feudal rank, one grade, to be Public Servicemen; and added to those who were functionaries on his staff, feudal rank, two grades, to be High Accomplishers; and to widowers and widows, the orphaned and solitary, who were not able survive by themselves, five hu of millet per person.

On wuwu [7 August], in the centre and outside strict precautions.

This Month [29 July – 27 August], Xiao Ze died. His grandson Zhaoye was usurpingly installed.

8th Month, yiyou [3 September], the Thrice Venerable, the Duke of Shanyang commandery, Yu Yuan, passed away.

On bingxu [4 September], the Chariot Drove to the arrangements to the High Deity, and thereupon presided over the mourning for Yu Yuan.

On dinghai [5 September], the Emperor took his leave at Yongguling.

On jichou [7 September], the Chariot Drove to issue out from the Imperial City for the southern offensive. The infantry and cavalry where more than 1 000 000.

The Grand Commandant, Pi, memorialised to request to use the palace people to accompany. A decree said:

To preside over military matters is not said to be an interior affair, [you] ought to stop coming with requests.

On renyin [20 September], the Chariot Drove to arrive in Si# province. On the people aged seventy and above, bestowed feudal rank, one grade. On the road when seeing the blind [?] and lame, stopped the driving to personally asked them, and bestowed clothes and food for all their life.

On wushen [26 September], favoured Bing province. Personally saw those of exalted years, and asked about their ills and sufferings.

9th Month, renzi [30 September], decreed the Combined Outer Staff Cavalier in Regular Attendance Gao Cong, and the Combined Outer Staff Cavalier Attendant Gentleman, Jia Zhen, as envoys to Xiao Zhaoye.

On dingsi [5 October], decreed that where the Chariot had Drove through, and damaged the people's autumn grain, for each mu to give five hu of grain.

On wuchen [16 October], crossed the He.

Decreed that for the people of Luo, Huai, Bing, and Si#, the four provinces passed through: Those hundred years old and above be provisional county Prefects, those ninety and older be bestowed three grades of feudal rank, those eighty and older be bestowed two grades of feudal rank, those seventy and older be bestowed one grade of feudal rank. To widowers and widows, the orphaned and solitary, who were not able survive by themselves, five hu of millet per person, and two bolts of silk. To the filial and brotherly, the upright and right-principled, and those civil and military officials who had responded to requirements, all their names to be known.

Also decreed the households of menials and cook did not get to marry with people among the soldiers. Those who had talents in civil or martial matters, or who through their accumulated service ought to be advance, who had similar models with the myriad clans, were to heed them.

On gengwu [18 October], favoured Luoyang, and thoroughly toured the former palaces' foundational sites. The Emperor looked back and spoke to the attendant subjects, saying:

Jin's virtue was not refined, soon toppling their ancestral sacrifices. That the desolate destruction has come to this, causes hurt in Our breast.

Thereupon he recited the poem of The Millet Bends Down, and wept with flow tears.

On renshen [20 October], observed the bridge across the Luo, favoured the Grand School, and observed the Stone Classics.

On yihai [23 October], the King of Dengzhi, Xiangshupeng, dispatched his son Jiu to go to palace and court with tribute [or was his name Jiuyique?], and also offered a petition, seeking hence that rank be conferred on Jiu. Decreed to allow it.

On bingzi [24 October], decreed the Six Armies to issue out the carriage box.

On dingchou [25 October], in military dress and holding a whip, steered the horse and set out. The crowd of subjects touched head to ground in front of the horse, and requested to suspend the southern offensive. The Emperor therefore halted. Carried on with the plan to settle moving the capital.

Winter, 10th Month, wuyin, New Moon [26 October], favoured Jinyongcheng.

Decreed to summon the Minister of Works, Mu Liang, together with the Master of Writing Li Chong and the Commander of Construction and Great Artisan, Dong Jue to arrange and begin the Luo Capital.

On jimao [27 October], favoured Henan City.

On yiyou [2 November], favoured Yu province.

On guisi [10 November], stayed at Shiji.

On yiwei [12 November], loosened the strict [restrictions]. Built an altar to the east of Huatai City. Announced to the Acting Temple the intention of moving the capital. A great amnesty Under Heaven. Erected the Huatai Palace.

Also decreed that those who had accompanied the military from the Imperial City and various provinces be bestowed one grade of feudal rank, those who had responded to recruitment to be added two grades, and to the masters and commanders be added three grades.

On guimao [20 November], favoured Ye City.

On yisi [22 November], decreed the King of Anding, Xiu, to lead the accompanying officials to welcome the family at the Dai Capital. The Chariot Drove to see them off besides the Zhang River.

Earlier, during the Emperor's southern offensive, he erected a palace hall to the west of Ye.

11th Month, guihai [10 December], the palace was complete. Moved to hold sway at it.

12th Month, wuyin [25 December], toured and scrutinized the Six Armies.

On gengyin [6 January], the state of Yinping dispatched envoys to court with tribute.

On yiwei [11 January], decreed to grieve and care for the Army's soldiers. Those who had died and perished from illness and disease applying themselves to their orders were generously provided for.

[bookofjin]

Biography of Zhu Xu

[From JS081]

Zhu Xu, courtesy name Cilun, was native of Yiyang. His father Dao, due to his talent and ability was successively Colonel of the Western Man, and Inspector of Yi province. Xu in his generation became a famous general, and amassed to move to Hawk Rising General and Chancellor of Jiaxia.

At the end of Xingning [363 – 365], the Inspector of Liang# province, Sima Xun, rebelled. Huan Wen petitioned for Xu to be Chief Protector of Conquering and Chastising to go and chastise him. Xingning 3, 365 AD, JS008] Due to his merits he was designated General who Conquers the Caitiffs, and ennobled Count of Xiangping.

In the middle of Taihe [366 – 371], he moved to Inspector of Yan province. At the time Qian Hong, a native of Changcheng, assembled a faction of more than a hundred people. They hid and concealed [themselves] in the mountains of Yuanxiang. Used Xu as Marshal of the Centre Army and Grand Warden of Wuxing. Xu arrived in the commandery, chastised and arrested  them. The affair finished, he returend to Yan province. [Ningkang 2, 374 AD, JS009]

At the beginning of Ningkang [373 – 375], he was designated Envoy Holding the Tally, Overseer of All Army Affairs Within Mian, Commander of the Palace Gentlemen of the South, and Inspector of Liang# province; to garrison Xiangyang [Taiyuan 2, 377 AD, JS009].

That year, Fu Jian dispatched his general Fu Pi and others to lead the multitudes and besiege Xu. Xu strengthened the defences. When the thieves' provisions were about to be exhausted, he led the multitudes in persistent attacks on them.

Earlier, at Fu Pi coming to attack, Xu's mother, [Lady] Han, herself climbed the city walls, took a walk, and complained that the north-western corner would be the first to be destroyed. Thereupon she led more than a hundred servant girls together with the daughters within the walls to that corner's slope, and built up the wall more than 20 zhang. The thieves attacked the north-western corner and as a result were scattered. The multitudes readily strengthened the newly built walls. Pi thereupon pulled out and withdrew. The people of Xiangyang spoke of this wall as the Lady's Wall.

Xu piled up battles to rout the thieves, people's feelings became lax in their labours. Also since the thieves had withdrawn a little distance, they suspected they would not yet be able to come, and the defensive preparations were not attentive. The Controller-Protector Li Bohu in secret was responding with the thieves. Xiangyang thereupon was taken, and Xu lost to Fu Jian. Jian killed Bohu on review of him [?], due to his disloyalty. [Taiyuan 4, 379 AD, JS009]

Xu wished to flee and return home, he secretly reached Yiyang, and hid in Xia Kui's house. Jian suspected Kui, and gathered him. Xu therefore went to Fu Hui to [surrender] his head. Jian was joyful, and did not ask about it, he used him as Master of Writing.

Middle of Taiyuan [376 – 396], Fu Jian encroached on the south [in 383 AD], Xie Shi led the multitudes to resist him. At the time the greater part of Jian's troops were at Xiang, Fu Rong with a multitude 300 000 was the first to arrive. Jian dispatched Xu to explain to Xie Shi, and declare himself the power of the troops. Xu instead spoke to Shi, saying:

When Fu Jian's multitude of 1 000 000 have fully gotten here, it will be impossible to resist them. When they have not yet assembled, to strike them can be considered an obtainable goal.

Hence Shi dispatched Xie Yan with 8 000 selected brave soldiers to ford the Fei River and incite a battle. Jian's multitudes made a small retreat. Xu at the time was in the rear of their army, he took te lead to say “Jian is defeated”. The multitudes thereupon greatly ran, and Xu therefore managed to return home.

He was designated Dragon Prancing General and Interior Clerk of Langye. He moved to [Commander-in-Chief?] of the Army Affairs of Yang province and Five Commanderies of Yu province, and Inspector of Yu province. He was stationed at Luoyang.

Later Zhai Liao of the Dingling rebelled [in 386 AD]. Xu dispatched Generals Qin Ying and Tong Bin with the various commanderies of Huai and Si, to together chastise him. Again he was Overseer of All Army Affairs of Yan and Qing provinces and Inspector of the two provinces [on 12 February 387 AD], General like before. He advanced to garrison Pengcheng. Xu requested to garrison Huaiyin, the Emperor permitted it.

Zhai Liao again sent his son Zhao to rob Chen and Ying [later the same year]. Xu turned back and dispatched Qin Ying to chastise Zhao, and ran him off. He was designated General who Conquers the Caitiffs. He petitioned to request to transport from Jiang province, 100 000 hu of uncooked rice and 5 000 bolts of cloth to thereby provide for the army's expenses. A decree listened to him.

He was promoted to Commander-in-Chief of the Army Affairs of Si, Yong, Liang# and Qin provinces [on 19 June 388]. The Emperor dispatched the General who Broadens Power and Grand Warden of Henan, Yang Quanqi, and the Grand Warden of Nanyang, Zhao Mu, each to lead 1 000 troops as subordinates to Xu.

Xu again petitioned to request produce from the former Inspector of Jing province, Huan Shi[qian]'s office fields of a 100 qing, and also 80 000 hu of grain. Supplied it. He continued defending Luoyang, and guarded the mountains and hills.

After that, Murong Yong led a multitude towards Luoyang [in 390 AD]. Xu crossed north from Huaiyin. He and Yong's bogus general Wang Ci and others came across each other. They therefore fought at Qin River, Ci changed to flight. He beheaded his resisting generals but never the resisting heads [?]. The Army Advisor Zhao Mu and the Chancellor of Jiangxia, Huan Bucai pursued Yong and routed him at Taixing. Yong returned home to Shangdang. At the time Yang Kai assembled a multitude of several thousand, he was at Hu and Shan. He heard Yong was defeated, and dispatched a hostage son to go to Xu and beg to surrender.

Xu pursued Yong to Shangdang's Bai River, he and Yong grasped each other for twenty days. He heard Zhai Liao wished to turn towards Jinyong, and therefore turned back. Thereupon he attacked Zhai Zhao at Shimen. He dispatched the Army Advisor Zhao Fan to rout Zhai Liao at Huai county. Liao escaped in the dark.

Xu withdrew to stay at Luoyang, he kept the Hawk Rising General, Zhu Dang to defend Shimen. Xu still sent his son Lüe as Controller-Protector for Luo City, with Zhao Fan as assistant. Xu turned back to Xiangyang. The King of Kuaiji, Daozi, considered Xu's victories and failures to remedy each other, and did not add praise or censure.

After that, the Colonel of the Eastern Qiang, Dou Chong, wished to enter the Han basin. Haungfu Zhao, a man of Anding, Zhou Xun, a man of Jingzhao, and others planned to admit him. The Inspector of Liang# province, Zhou Qiong, lost the three commanderies of Baxi, the multitudes were few and their strength weak. He reported the urgency to Xu. Xu disp General Huangfu Zhen to lead the multitudes and hasten to him. Chong occupied east of Chang'an, Zhao and Xun scattered and ran.

Xu, due to his age and illnesses, piled up petitioned to be released from office, it was not permitted. A decree put a stop to petitions. Thereupon he immediately left his duties. After several ten days, he return for punishment with the Commandant of Justice. A decree pardoned him without questioning. In the 18th Year of Taiyuan [393 AD], he passed on. He was conferred General of the Left and Cavalier in Regular Attendance.

[bookofjin]

Biography of the Jin pretenders Sima Dan, Pi and Yi弈 (Weishu)

[Emperor Mu, Ai and the Duke of Haixi. From Weishu096]

Yue died. Yu Bing desired to establish Sima Yu. The General of Agile Cavalry, He Chong established Yue's son Dan, the era title named Yonghe [“Eternal Harmony”, 345 – 356]. Dan's General who Calms the West, Huan Wen, led his command of more than 7 000 people to invade Shu, when designating and petitioning he acted on his own [?]. Dan's power and capabilities were small and weak, and he was not able to take the lead and rule.

When Shi Hu died, Dan's General who Conquers the North, Chu Pou, used a naval army to arrive at Xiapi. The Commander of the Palace Gentlemen of the West, Chen Kui, advanced to occupy Huainan. Shi Zun heard Pou had arrived at Xiapi, and sent his Minister of Works, Li Nong, to lead more than 10 000 cavalry to confront and besieged the Controller-Protector Wang Kan at Xue. He seized Kan sent him off to Ye, and also killed Li Mai. Kan was a valiant general of Pou. The Three Armies were disheartened, and therefore pulled and turned back. Chen Kui heard about, shook in fear, burnt Huainan and ran.

Huan Wen petitioned to demote the Inspector of Yang province, Yun Hao. Dan dreaded Wen and therefore removed his name. Wen thereupon lead the various armies under his command, 40 000 infantry and cavalry, from Ying to go beyond Guanzhong and arrive at Bashang. Fu Jian# with more than 5 000 people defended the lesser city of Chang'an. In that year there was great scarcity, the people in Wen's army were anxious and hesitant [?]. Jian# had deep ditches and strong walls, and cleared the countryside waiting for Wen. Wen's army's food was exhausted, so he therefore withdrew. Fu Jian# dispatched his son Chang to strike again and again to defeat him.

Earlier, when Wen was at Bashang, his section general, the General who Raises the Martial and Grand Warden of Shunyang, Xue Zhen, recommended Jing to advance and pressure the city. Wen did not follow. Zhen accordingly crossed alone with a division of the host, and made quite a few captures. Wen withdrew, so Zhen therefore turned back. He freely told the multitudes, on one hand flaunting his sharpness and then blaming Wen's heavy caution. Wen was ashamed and angry, and killed him.

Dan again changed the year to be named Shengping [“Maturing Peace”, 357 – 361].

Dan died. He had no sons, so they established Yan's son Pi, titling the year Longhe [“Plentiful Harmony” 362 – 363]. At the time a song said:

Shengping did not fill a dou. Longhe [“Plentiful Harmony”], how to obtain it for a long time?

Changed it to be Xingning [“Fostering Tranquillity”, 363 – 365]. Again a song said:

Even though again changed to Fostering Tranquillity, likewise he himself nothing to rely on for life [?].

[Sheng升has several meanings. Since the era title was changed from Yonghe to Shengping in 357 when the emperor formally came of age, I assume “ripening, maturing” is the one intended. But sheng is also a unit of measurement. 10 sheng = 1 dou. The finer points of the rest eludes me.]

Pi died. His younger brother Yi was established. Changed the year to be named Taihe [“Grand Harmony”, 366 – 371].

Huan Wen led the multitudes north to punish Murong Wei, and arrived at Jinxiang. He dug through at Juye for more than 300 li, thereby passing though the naval army,and from the Qing river entered the He. Murong Chui confronted, struck and routed him, and captured his wealth and arms. Murong Chui confronted, struck and routed him, and captured his wealth and arms.

At Wen's retreat from the north, he had previously instructed the Commander of the Palace Gentlemen of the West, Yuan Zhen, and Zhao Yue to open Shimen. But Yuan Zhen and others stayed in Liang and Song, and Shimen was not passable. Provisions were exhausted. Wen from Fangtou turned around the army. Chui used several ten thousand infantry and cavalry to chase [him], catching up at Xiangyi, and greatly defeated Wen's army.

Wen thereupon returned to blame Yuan Zhen, removed his name and struck off his noble title, and took the tally and transmitted [?]. Zhen's son, Shuangzhi and others killed the Interior Clerk of Liang state, Zhu Xian. Zhen occupied Shouyang to thereby rebel. Zhen's various sons and brothers hindered the troops to defend themselves. He summoned and persuaded the commander of the Lucheng defence post [?] and Grand Warden of Chen commandery, Zhu Fu, with several thousand men. He dispatched the Army Advisor Cuan Liang to communicate with Murong Wei, and also dispatched envoys west to surrender to Fu Jian.

Yuan Zhen died. Fu established the son his legal wife, Jin, as Envoy Holding the Tally, General who  Establishes Power, and Inspector of Yu province. Jin's younger brothers, four or five people, all led troops. Wei ordered Chen Wen to tell Cuan Liang, and moreover accordingly observe changes [?].

Huan Wen dispatched the Controller-Protector Zhu Yao to use the army and go upstream the Huai to attack Jin. Yao stayed at Feikou and fought frequently. Murong Wei made use of Jin as General who Conquers the South, Inspector of Yang province and Duke of Xuancheng. Jin's younger brothers, Hong and others, were all Wardens of commanderies and Generals of the Fourth Grade. Zhu Fu likewise went to him. Wen therefore attacked Jin. Jin and others resisted in battle. Hence [he?] built a long encirlement to defend against them. Within the city they shook in defeat. He thereupon pacified Jin.

Earlier, Wen relied on combining general and chancellor. That he had not the heart of a subject appeared in his voice and manners [?]. He once laid down face to face with his personal companions [?], patted the pillow and stood up, saying:

[If I] am silent and still like this, [I] will be laughed at by Wen and Jing.

The multitudes did not dare to reply.

Later [he led?] the whole multitude on the northern punishment campaign, hoping for the influence for completing the encroaching and take by force [?]. Reaching his flight in defeat from Fangtou, he knew the people hoped for getting rid of him. When he had pacified [Yuan] Jin he asked the Gentleman of the Palace Writers Chi Chao, saying:

Is it sufficient to accordingly wipe away the shame of Fangtou?

Chao said:

This not yet satiates the feelings of [those who?] are informed. Your Excellency is aged sixty, was defeated in the great undertaking, and did not establish deeds not this generation. It is not sufficient to accordingly quell and satisfy the people's expectations.

Because of that he advised Wen to use the affairs of deposing and establishing. Wen was already predisposed to have this plan, and deeply accepted Chao's words.

Wen wanted to return from Guangling to headquarter at Gushu. He arrived at Baishi, and said his ruler Yi as young had had an illness [making him] similar to a eunuch. Earlier when he had been in Donghai and Langye states, his personal intimate minions, Xiang Long, Zhu Lingbao and others, both attended and lay down inside [his quarters], and then the Beautiful Ladies Ms. Tian and Ms. Meng thereupon birthed three sons. The multitudes were made suspicious and confused, and were not able to investigate its truth or falsehood.

Reaching this point, he wanted to establish an heir and set up [his other sons as] kings. Wen because of that used it to settle the plan for deposing and establishing. He thereupon led the hundred companions all to return to the court hall.

Wen led the multitudes to enter, and garrisoned troops at the palace gates. He advanced to sit in the palace courtyard, and sent the Controller-Protector Zhu Yao and the Cavalier Attendant Gentleman Liu Heng to obtain Yi's signet and seal. Yi, wearing only a single piece of white garment, went on foot below the Western Hall, and mounted a calf chariot. The crowd of subjects did obeisance and bid farewell, all with falling tears. The Attendant Imperial Clerk, commanding more than hundred people, sent him off to set out through the Shenhu Gate and enter the Donghai mansion. Then they welcomed Sima Yu and established him.

[bookofjin]

Prophetic words gone unheeded

[Also an introduction to a wider group of portents copied straight from Ban Gu’s Hanshu. From JS028. I’m translating 五行 as the “Five Agents” rather than the “Five Elements” ]

The Traditions says:

To tell it and not follow, this is to speak and not govern [?]. He who erroneously usurp, he is punished with persistent yang, he is utmost worried. At the time then there are verses bewitching, at the time then there are scourges of shelled insects, at the time then there are calamities of dogs, at at the time then there are illnesses of the mouth and tongue, at the time then there are white aberrations and white omens. Only wood unbalancing metal.

“To tell it and not follow”, “to follow” is to obey. “This is to speak and not govern”, “to govern” is to rule.

Master Kong says:

The lordly man stays in his room. [If] he sets out and his words are not good, then outside of  a thousand li they disobey him, and furthermore those who are close to him! [?]

The Poetry says:

Like buzzing like the cicada, like boiling like broth.

To speak the high title [with?] orders not obeyed the people's hearts, empty noise confusing and making chaos, then [this is] not being able to rule Within the Seas. The mistake is beyond blunders, for that reason his fault is the blunder of usurpation [?]. To punish and penalize foolish promotion, the crowd's yin not adhering, then the air of yang prevails, for that reason he is punished with steady yang [?]. If drought injures the hundred grains, then there are difficulties with robbers, above and below all grieve, for that reason he is utmost worried.

[If] the lord dries up the yang and is violent and cruel, the subjects fear punishment and clench up their mouths, then an air of hatred and slander issues into songs and rumours. For that reason there are verses bewitching.

The scourge of shelled insects, it is said that the kind of small insects that have shells flying and scattering, are born by the air of yang. In the Spring and Autumn it is zhōng 螽, now they speak of them as huáng 蝗 [both means “locust”], both are of this kind.

In the Changes, Joy [Trigram 8] is the mouth. Dogs uses barking to protect, yet they cannot speak. The air of speech is damaged, for that reason there are calamities of dogs. Some say, in drought years dogs are very mad and dying, and are being strange [?], it is likewise this.

If reaching people, then there is much illness of the mouth and throat with coughing and throat-clearing, for that reason there are illnesses of the mouth and tongue.

Metal is coloured white. For that reason there are white aberrations and white omens.

All say wounds, are illnesses with a metal air. If there are illnesses of a metal air, then wood is unbalancing it. Thus utmost worried, obeys it. Thus happiness is called peaceful serenity.

Liu Xin's Discussing Traditions says if the time then there are the scourge of hairy insects. The explanation uses it as in the western regions of the Heavenly Ornaments, the Triaster lunar lodging [?], there is a Beast [Tiger] Star [?]. For that reason there are hairy insects.

[Everything up to this point copied from the HS.]

At the beginning of the King of Qi of Wei's Jiaping [249 – 253], there were in Dong commandery rumours, stating that a white horse set out from the He to bewitch horses. At night it passed beyond the border of the official shepherds [?] crying and shouting, the multitude horses all obeyed. Next day they saw its tracks, big as [to fill] a hu. It travelled for several li, and returned to enter the He. The King of Chu, Biao, originally was enfeoffed with Baima [lit. “White Horse”]. The Inspector of Yan province, Linghu Yu, considered Biao to be wise and brave. When he heard of these words, he thereupon together with Wang Ling planned to establish him. The affair leaked, Ling and Yu suffered exection, Biao was bestowed death. This was the punishment of telling and not following. The Poetry states:

People's rumours, how is it that it cannot be punished?

[“Sima” literally means “Minister of Horses”]

When Liu Shan of Shu inherited the rank [in 223], Qiao Zhou said:

The Former Ruler's taboo was Bei, its gloss is “Preparing for”. The Later Ruler's taboo is Shan, its gloss is “Confer”. Suppose it says Liu has already prepared, must confer and give the people. It is much like Marquis Mu of Jin and Emperor Ling of Han instructing [their] sons' omens.

Shu in the end fell. This is telling it and not following.

When Liu Bei passed on, Liu Shan was enthroned. He had not yet been buried, and likewise the month had not yet passed. And yet they changed the inaugural to “Establishing Fostering” [Jianxing]. This is telling it and not following. The rites is, that the lord of a state is enthroned for the remainder of the year, and then afterwards changes the inaugural. This is because the hearts of subjects and sons do not endure to have two lords in one year. Now it can be said to be urgent but not knowing the rites or righteousness. Later on they thereupon surrendered.

In the middle of Emperor Ming of Wei's Taihe [227 – 233], Jiang Wei reverted to Shu, losing his mother. The people of Wei made his mother hand write a letter calling out Wei and ordering [him] to turn back. Wei reported the letter and said:

With good fields of a hundred qing, do not plot for a single mu. If only seeing distant aspirations, there nothing to be had in reverting. [?]

Wei passed on and did not escape.

In the 1st Year of Jingchu [237 AD], had the ministers memorialised on the Emperor [Cao Rui] being the Zealous Founder [liezu], he, the Grand Founder [taizu, Cao Cao], and the Exalted Founder [gaozu, Cao Pi] all be not dismantled from the temple [?]. Followed it. But note that in the rules of the Ancestral Temple, the titles of Founder [zu] and Ancestor [zong], all during life the names are not completed to therefore correct their rites [?]. For that reason, even though merits blazons over Heaven and Earth, virtue passing by the Preceding King, there is not be beforehand authority on the decision [?]. This is undoubtedly to tell it and not follow, the mistake considerable [?]. Two years later [in 239 AD], the Palace Chariot quietly drove. Hence in controlling the trifling, government affairs were let loose.

In the time of Sun Xiu of Wu [r. 258 – 264], a man of Wucheng had contracted a wearisome illness. Reaching recovery, when he was able accordingly to make sound and speak, he spoke to one yet heard from another. From the one who was listening to him [?], he did not wake up from the greatness of his voice. From the one hear heard from far off, it was like the person was replying to his words, he did not wake up to the sound of him coming from afar [?]. Departing by the sound of it, turning by [those?] who accompanied him, for a distance exceeding several tens of li. His neighbouring people had a duty to comfort from the outside. For several years it did not return. They therefore took it to have been made to be a duty to yield, fearing accordingly misfortune and happiness [?]. The thing carried they considered to be a demon god, and immediately toppled to take turns bestowing on it. Thus the people likewise did not themselves know by which made it so. The error of words not followed. [I can't make sense of this at all.]

In the time of Wei, they built the Anshi [“Calm Generation”] Hall. Emperor Wu [of Jin] later lived in it. Anshi was Emperor Wu's courtesy name. Emperor Wu always welcomed the crowd of subjects, often discussing peaceful living and regular affairs, not once reaching to pass through the state's distant plans. This was to speak it but not following. He Zeng spoke to his son Zun, saying:

The house of state is without plans for bequeathing it, [he] reaches his own person and that is all. Later the inheritance will be endangered! This will be the grief of [my] sons and grandsons.

From Yongxi [290 AD] and after the royal house gradually became chaotic. By the middle of Yongjia [307 – 313] Under Heaven was in great ruin. When He Sui was killed though without crimes, everything was like Zeng had said.

The King of Zhao, Lun, deposed Emperor Hui to the Jingyongcheng [“Metal Walled Fortress”], and changed the name from Jingchongcheng to the Perpetual Calm [Yong'an] Palace. The Emperor was restored to the throne and Lun was executed.

In Emperor Hui's 1st Year of Yongxing [304 AD], a decree deposed the Heir-Apparent, Tan, to return to be King of Qinghe, and established the King of Chengdu, Ying, as August Brother-Heir, similarly promoted to Palace Attendant, Great Commander-in-Chief, Acting Imperial Chancellor, provided with the Nine Bestowals, and enfeoffed with 20 commanderies, like the old affairs of the King of Wei.

Note that the rites of Zhou transmits that when the state considers the succession it does not consider achievements. For that reason, even with Duke Dan's sagacity, they did not change King Cheng's succession, and by these means the distant cut off covetous desires, perpetuating a single lineage vault. Later generations followed the path, [if they] changed it then there was chaos. Now to plan to violate its actuality [?], the usurpation mishap is already considerably. Moreover [if someone] already is the state's successor, then he ought not to again open his initial fief ground, [or] combine leadership of numerous duties.

This is to tell it and not follow. Advancing and withdrawing is contrary and inconsistent. For that reason when the Emperor had run away and gone past [?], Ying likewise did not in the end. This was his fault in usurping. Later they similarly did not apprehend, and again established Emperor Huai as August Brother-Heir. Huai in the end was refugeed and regicided [?], and did not for long have his throne, also his response. When a decree said: “Altering the ancient and changing the common, no chaos then perish”, this was spoken of.

In Emperor Yuan's 2nd Year of Yongchang [323 AD], the Great General, Wang Dun came down-[river] to occupy Gushu. The hundred families said there moved an insect disease [?], eating a person's great orifice [?!]. After several days it entered the belly. When it entered the belly [you?] died. There was a method to be healed from it, [you] must obtain a white dog's gall bladder and use it as medicine.

From the Huai and the Si it then reached the Imperial Capital. [After] an interval of several days, the hundred families were frightened and agitated. People who entered [?] all themselves said they had already gotten the insect disease. They also said, at the time it began to be outside, [they] must burn with iron to thereby cauterize it. Hence from that [?], those who were burnt and cauterized were seven or eight out of ten.

But white dogs were brutal and costly, arriving at [people] requesting and snatching [them from] each other, their price ten-doubled. Some were themselves saying they were able to do the burning with iron to cauterize [?], were hired to cauterize the hundred families. In a day the managed to do 50 or 60 000, then they tired and afterwards stopped. After four or five days it gradually quieted. The explanation said:

As for the kinds of naked insects and people [?], yet people the rulers [?]. Now it is said that insects eats people, the words originally similar to the kinds of smell, yet injuring and stealing [from] each other [?]. From down and up, to clarify its contrariness.

Surely those which enters the belly, are said to injure because [they are] inside, not because [they are] outside. Dogs have a nature for protecting and guarding, white is the colour of metal. And the gall bladder is used as the master of the martial.

In the revolving of emperors and kings, king and hegemon met at Xu [?, the 11th terrestrial branch, associated with dogs]. The ruler of Xu uses troops, metal is the agent of Jin. Those who burn and heat iron to heal illness, [this] tells surely to leave its kind [?], and come with the combined virtue of fire and metal [?], together to remove the insects' injury.

Note that at the juncture of the Restoration, the Great General originally used belly and heart to accept the trust of Yi and Lü. Yet in the final year of Emperor Yuan, he thereupon attacked the Imperial District. Emperor Ming trusted in closed doors, and also had unusual plans. Thus due to the subordinate disobeying the superior, stomach and heart were rotten on the inside.

When Qian Feng, Shen Chong and others confronted troops from four sides [?], yet they were pushed down by the royal host. For the remainder of the month they were not able to cross the river. The [Commander of] the Palace Gentlemen of the North, Liu Xia, and the Interior Clerk of Huailing, Su Jun led the multitudes of the Huai and Si to accordingly rescue the Imperial Court. For that reason its song said that the head was made in Huai and Si. The soldiers of the Imperial Court using the weak to overpower the strong, criminal people had their heads sent. Hence using white dog gall bladder could be the rescue's result [?].

In the time of the Duke of Haixi [r. 365 – 372], Yu Xi [?,庾晞] within four or five years loved to make dirges, he himself shaking a great bell as he was singing, making left and right equally harmonious. Also when banqueting a gathering he always ordered the artists and performers to do the songs and dances of the people of Xin'an parting them from the words [?], their sound was sorrowful and cutting. At the time people were amazed by it. Later he likewise as a result was defeated.

In the middle of Taiyuan [376 – 396], young boys used pairs of iron to strike at each other in the middle of the ground, naming it the dou family clan. Later Wang Guobao and Wang Xiaobo from within the same family themselves attacked and struck each other.

When Huan Xuan began to change the year to be Daheng [“Great Progression”], afar and near delighted in saying “In two months complete”. For that reason the righteous plan used the Middle Spring to set out. When Xuan usurped the establishment, he again changed the year to be Jianshi [“Establishing the Onset”], using the same as the King of Zhao, Lun. He again changed it to be Yongshi [“Eternal Onset”]. Yongshi again this was the year in which Wang Mang accepted enfeoffment. He first moved Sima Daozi to Ancheng [“Calm Completeness”]. Emperor An yielded the throne, and set out for the Yong'an [“Perpetual Calm”] Palace, enfeoffed as King of Pinggu. The King of Langye, Dewen, became Duke of Shiyang, and also sent to say in the Xunyang Fort. Those who understood all considered it to be telling but not following bewitching the usurpation.

At the beginning of Emperor Wu's [reign, 266 – 290], He Zeng scorned the great officials attending the meals, himself eating privately. His son Shao also went beyond him, but Wang Kai also went beyond Shao. The companions of Wang Kai and Yang Xiu abundantly presented music and beauties, poor and precious were extremely elegant. Arriving at the middle of Yuankang [291 – 299], extravagance and indulgence were completely the custom [?], moving to exalt and surpass each other. The extravagance of Shi Chong [was such] that even when combining Wang and He, he was still the master of the two [?]. When Chong had been executed, Under Heaven was likewise lost and destroyed. The fault of usurping transgressions.

[bookofjin]

Biography of Emperor Mu, Part 2

[From JS008]

[Shengping 1]

[6 February 357 – 25 January 358]

1st Year of Shengping [“Maturing Peace”], Spring. 1st Month, renxu, New Moon [6 February], the Emperor donned inaugural dress, reported to Heaven and the Grand Temple, and first personally [ruled over] the ten thousands moments. A great amnesty and change of the inaugural. Promoted the ranking civil and military officials one grade. The August Empress Dowager resided in the Honoured Virtue [chongde] Palace.

On dingchou [21 February], falling stones at Huai village only. [?]

This Month, the General who Garrisons the North, the Duke of Qi, Duan Kan, was captured by Murong Ke, and was murdered.

Zhu Zhantan of Funan presented tame elephant[s]. A decree said: “In the past, the Former Emperor, due to the unusual region's strange beasts sometimes being a worry to the people, forbid them. Now coming to it not yet arriving, it is possible to order to return [them to their] home ground.”

3rd Month [6 April – 4 May], the Emperor discussed the Classic of Filial Piety.

On renwu [27 April], he personally let go [?] sacrificial offerings in the Central Hall.

Summer, 5th Month, gengwu [14 June], the General who Garrisons the West, Xie Shang, passed on.

Fu Sheng's generals Fu Mei and Fu Jian struck Yao Xiang, fighting with him at Sanyuan, and beheaded him.

6th Month [3 July – 1 August], Fu Jian killed Fu Sheng and established himself.

Used the Minister of the Army, Xie Yi [JS079], as Envoy Holding the Tally, Commander-in-Chief, General who Calms the West and Inspector of Yu province.

Autumn, 7th Month [2 August – 31 August], Fu Jian's general Zhang Ping used Bing province to surrender. Thereupon used him as Inspector of Bing province.

8th Month, dingwei [19 September], established the August Empress Ms. He. A great amnesty and bestowed rice on the filial and brotherly, widowers and widows, 5 hu per person. Unsettled rent and unpaid debt not to be collected. A great banquet for 3 days.

Winter, 10th Month [30 October – 27 November], the August Empress saw to the Grand Temple.

11th Month [28 November – 27 December], thunder.

12th Month [28 December – 25 January], used the Grand Master of Ceremonies, Wang Biaozhi, as  Supervisor of the Left of the Masters of Writing.

[Shengping 2]

[26 January 358 – 13 February 359]

2nd Year, Spring, 1st Month [26 January – 24 February], the Minister over the Masses, the King of Kuaji, Yu, touched head to ground to return the government. The Emperor did not allow it.

3rd Month [26 March – 24 April?], Murong Jun captured the various commanderies of Ji province. Decreed the General who Calms the West, Xie Yi, and the Commander of the Palace Gentlemen of the North, Xun Xian [JS075?] to attack north.

3rd Month [the intercalary month, 25 April – 23 May?], the Controller of the Sharpshooters, Wang Rao, presented serpent eagle[s]. The Emperor was angry and whipped him 200 times, and sent the Palace Hall Imperial Clerks to burn his birds at the intersection of the four directions.

Summer, 5th Month [23 June – 21 July], great floods.

There was a comet star in the Heavenly Boat.

6th Month [27 July – 20 August], the Inspector of Bing province, Zhang Ping, was pressured by Fu Jian, and led a multitude of 3 000 in flight to Pingyang. Jian pursued and defeated him.

Murong Ke advanced to occupy Shangdang. The General of the Best of the Army, Feng Yang, due to the multitudes being rebellious, reverted to Murong Jun. Jun completely captured the land north of the He.

Autumn, 8th Month [19 September – 18 October], the General who Calms the West, Xie Yi, passed on.

On renshen [9 October], used the Grand Warden of Wuxing, Xie Wan [JS079], as Commander of the Palace Gentlemen of the West, Holding the Tally, Overseer of All Army Affairs of Si, Yu, Ji and Bing provinces and Inspector of Yu province. Used the Cavalier in Regular Attendance, Chi Tan, as Commander of the Palace Gentlemen of the North, Holding the Tally, Commander-in-Chief of All Army Affairs of Xu, Yan, Qing, Ji and You provinces, Inspector of Xu and Yan provinces, headquartered at Xiapi.

Winter, 10th Month, yichou [1 December], the King of Chenliu, Cao Mai, passed away.

11th Month, gengzi [5 January], thunder.

On xinyou [26 January in the 12th Month?], the earth shook.

12th Month [16 January – 13 February], the Commander of the Palace Gentlemen of the North, Xun Xian, and Murong Jun fought at Shanren. The royal host achieved defeat.

[Shengping 3]

[14 February 359 – 2 February 360]

3rd Year, Spring, 3rd Month, jiachen [9 May], decreed that, due to every year sending out the army, provision transportation were not being maintained. From kings and dukes and down, 3 of 10 households to lend 1 person for 1 year to assist with transportation.

Autumn, 7th Month [10 August – 8 September], the General who Conquers the North, Gao Chang, was pressured by Murong Jun. He fled from Baima to Xingyang.

Winter, 10th Month [7 November – 5 December], Murong Jun robbed Dong'a. Dispatched the Commander of the Palace Gentlemen of the West, Xie Wan, to lodge at Xiacai, and the Commander of the Palace Gentlemen of the North, Chi Tan, to lodge at Gaoping to thereby strike him. The royal host achieved defeat.

11th Month, wuzi [19 December], advanced to the Inspector of Yang province, Wang Shu, to be General of Guards.

12th Month [5 January – 2 February], also used the General of the Army of the Centre, the King of Langye, Pi, as General of General of Agile Cavalry; the King of Donghai, Yi, as General of Chariots and Cavalry.

Enfeoffed the King of Wuling, Xi's son Jin as King of Liang.

The Inspector of Jiao province, Wen Fangzhi, led troops to punish Can Li and Dan Lao of Linyi, both surrendered to him.

[Shengping 4]

[3 February 360 – 20 February 361]

4th Year, Spring, 1st Month [3 February – 3 March], the Duke of Chouchi, Yang Jun, passed on. His son Shi inherited.

On bingxu [15 February], Murong Jun died. His son Wei inherited the bogus rank.

2nd Month [4 March – 2 April], a phoenix [fenghuang] commanding nine fledglings seen in Fengcheng.

Autumn, 7th Month [30 July – 27 August], due to army service being difficult to foster, rationalised the usage of eliminating provisions [?].

8th Month, xinchou, New Moon [28 August], the sun was eclipsed completely. [OK. This was visible as an annular eclipse in large parts of China. http://xjubier.free.fr/en/site_pages/solar_eclipses/xSE_GoogleMap3.php?Ecl=+03600828&Acc=2&Umb=1&Lmt=1&Mag=0]

Winter, 10th Month [26 October – 24 November], a Heavenly Dog travelled in the south-west.

11th Month [25 November – 23 December], enfeoffed the Grand Commandant, Huan Wen, as Duke of Nan commandery, Wen's younger brother Chong as Duke of Fengcheng county, his son Ji as Duke of Linhe commandery.

A phoenix was again seen in Fengcheng, a multitude of birds accompanied it.

[Shengping 5]

[21 February 361 – 10 February 362]

5th Year, Spring, 1st Month, wuxu [21 February], a great amnesty, bestowed on widowers and widows, the orphans and alone, and those not able to survive by themselves, 5 hu of rice per person.

The Commander of the Palace Gentlemen of the North, Commander-in-Chief of All Army Affairs of Xu, Yan, Qing, Ji and You provinces and Inspector of Xu and Yan provinces, Chi Tan, passed on.

2nd Month [23 March – 20 April], used the General of the Garrison Army, Fan Wang [JS075] as Commander-in-Chief of All Army Affairs of Xu, Yan, Qing, Ji and You provinces, General who Calms the North and Inspector of Xu and Yan provinces.

The General who Pacifies the South and Inspector of Guang province, the Marquis of Yangxia, Teng Han, passed on.

Summer, 4th Month [21 May – 18 June], great floods.

The Grand Commandant, Huan Wen, headquartered at Wan. He sent his younger brother Huan Huo [JS074] to command troops and Xuchang.

A phoenix was seen north of the Mian.

5th Month, dingsi [10 July], the Emperor expired in the Xianyang hall. At the time he was 19 years old. He was buried in the Yongping [“Eternal Peace”] Mound, his temple title Xiaozong [“Filial Ancestor”].

[bookofjin]

Biography of Cai Bao

[From JS081]

Cai Bao [b. 269, d. 320], courtesy name Shixuan was a native of Yucheng in Chenliu. His great-great-grandfather Zhi was Han's Commandant of Guards and uncle of the Commander of the Palace Gentlemen of the Left, Yong. His grandfather Mu was Wei's Master of Writing. His father Hong was Grand Warden of Yinping.

Bao was a spirited person [?], he was successively Assistant of Henan and Grand Warden of Changle and Qinghe. To escape the chaos he crossed south. Emperor Yuan used him as General who Excites the Martial and Grand Warden of Linhuai. He was moved to General who Establishes Power and Inspector of Xu province.

Earlier, when Zu Ti [J062] Swas [Inspector of] Xu province, Bao was his Marshal, [Ti] habitually disrespected Bao. Arriving at this point, Ti was [Inspector] of Yu province and Bao was [Inspector of] Xu province, all accepting to rely on [him] for conquering and punishing, Ti was considerably ashamed for it.

At that time the Grand Warden of Taishan, Xu Kan and the Interior Clerk of Pengcheng, Liu Xia [JS081], together punished the rebel traitor Zhou Fu at Mount Han [in 319, JS006]. Kan's general Yu Yao beheaded Fu. And yet when debating the achievements, Xia was before him.

Kan was angry, and used Taishan to rebel, titling himself General who Placates the North and Inspector of Yan province. He attacked the Grand Warden of Dongguan, Hou Shimao and occupied his entrenchments. Shi Jilong struck him. Kan was afraid and requested to surrender. Emperor Yuan allowed him to.

Then [Kan] returned to rebellion and reverted to Shi Le. Le dispatched his generals Wang Fudu, Zhang Jing and others with several hundred cavalry to help Kan. Decreed the General who Conquers the Caitiffs, Yang Jian [JS081], the General of Martial Power, Hou Li, the Grand Warden of Linhuai, Liu Xia, the Xianbei Duan Wenyang and others, to unite with Bao and punish him. The various generals were fearful and timid, halted the troops at Xiapi and did not dare to go forward. Bao desired to advance the army, but Jian firmly did not allow it.

Kan dispatched envoys requesting aid from Le. Le refused due to outside difficulties, and yet many times requested it from Kan. [?] Also Wang Fudu and others were licentious to his house [or “in his house”?]. Kan understood Le would not help and also worried about Fudu and others indulging in savagery. He therefore killed them and again requested to surrender.

Emperor Yuan detested his repeated rebellions and did not accept, guiding Bao and Jian to use the time to advance and punish. Jian, Liu Xia and others all doubted and shirked, did not listen to and follow each others, and exchanged requests for news. Because of that Bao for a long time did not manage to advance.

The Prefect of the Masters of Writing, Diao Xie [JS069], memorialised, saying: “Your Subject and others prostrate to consider the the conquering army north of the Huai's continuous failure and lack of speed. Presently the region is sweltering hot and when braving to cross mountain passes, the mountain people can conveniently shoot crossbows, being familiar with the mores of the land. If one person defends a defile, a hundred men can not take it. [?]

Moreover water transport arrive with difficulty, if in one morning provisions are poor, it is not again  possible for the wise [?] to defend and resist.

The Documents says to soothe to summon people and not to summon among people. [?] [We] ought to halt the soldiers at their place and deeply fortify with strong walls. When autumn arrives and is not complete, then we advance the great army.”

A decree said: “To recognize difficulties and withdraw, truly unites the words of military families. Surely mean thieves, although cunning and crafty, formerly were completely captured and that was all. To not fight and yet withdraw, was before to humiliate and disgrace yourself, and likewise shunned by the ancients. Moreover Shao [?] is already occupying the thieves' ramparts, dominating power is already aroused. It is not possible to withdraw a single step!”

With that dispatched the Imperial Clerk Preparer of Documents Hao Gu to be acting as tribunal, urging and managing, and ordering to advance and punish. Bao desired to straight-away advance, Jian held on and did not listen.

Xie again memorialised to dismiss Jian from office and appoint Bao to be the vanguard, use Jian's troops to blend with his, decrease his title by removing General of Guards [?], due to his duties behind his best [?].

Bao advanced to occupy Biancheng, desiring to use it to pressure Kan. At the time Shi Jilong was garrisoning Juping and wanted to attack Bao. Bao escaped in the night. He withdrew to defend Xiapi. Xu Kan raided and seized Bao's baggage wagons at Tanqiu. Generals Liu Chong and Lu Dang fought with all their strength and died there.

Bao was already defeated and wanted to return and apologize for the crime. The Palace Attendant of the North, Wang Shu, stopped him and said: “The Hu bandits have just arrived, suppose the Lord moreover undertakes to administer his post, [you will] be the protective shield of the hundred families. When the traitors withdraw apologize for the crime, [it will not be?]  too late.” Bao followed him.

Emperor Yuan heard Bao had withdrawn, and sent [people] to arrest him. When the envoys arrived, Wang Shu in the night used troops to surround Bao. Bao due to having these [?] difficulties, led those beneath the banner [his close subordinates] to attack him. Hearing there was a decree he then desisted. Shu arrested Bao and sent him off to Jiankang. [There they] beheaded him, his corpse was in the marketplace for three days. At the time he was 52 years old.

When Bao was in the lands of Xu, he inside consoled the generals and soldiers and outside cherised the various multitudes, to a great extent obtaining emotions of near and far. Hearing of his death, many grieved and pitied him.

He was without sons. His elder brother's son Yi, courtesy name Yuanzi, [was] Cavalier in Regular Attendance, Inspector of Yan province and Marquis of Gaoyang district. During Yin Hao's northern invasion, he sent Yi to lead the multitudes setting out from Pengcheng. He passed on with the army.

Yang Jian, courtesy name Jingqi, was a native of Taishan. His father Ji was Commander of the Palace Gentlemen of the Xiongnu. His elder brother Wei was successively Grand Coachman and Inspector of Yan and Xu provinces. Jian became Grand Warden of Dongyang and amassed to be moved to Guard Leader of the Left to the Heir-Apparent.

At the time Xu Kan turned to rebellion, the Minister over the Masses, Wang Dao [JS065], due to Jian being from a leading family in Kan's province [?], [thought he would] surely be able to overpower him, and requested to dispatch [Jian] north to punish [Kan]. Jian deeply confessed his talent was not commanding a host. The Grand Commandant, Xi Jian [JS067], likewise petitioned, saying Jian was not talented [and they] ought not foolishly send [him]. Dao did not accept, and powerfully put forward to confer and use him as Commander-in-Chief of Conquering and Punishing. In the end he achieved defeat.

Dao, due to recommending Jian [who was] not talented, requested himself to be demoted. The Emperor did not follow. He had the ministers set right on Jian being beheaded as punishment. Emperor Yuan decreed to use Jian on the outer staff of the Consort Dowager, with a special pardon from death, and removed his name [from the list of qualified officials?]. For a long time after that he had minor offices.

When Emperor Cheng was enthroned, relaxed his punishment and revived him to the high. Due his merits, he was enfeoffed Marquis of Fengcheng county and moved to Superintendent of the Brilliantly Blessed. He passed on.