There began a period of happiness and prosperity for the people. Tranquillity prevailed, the harvests were rich year after year, and old and young, with fair, round bellies, well lined, simply sang with joy. The people hastened to fulfill their state duties and vied with each other in the performance of all arts. As a natural consequence all military preparations were perfect, the granaries bursting with grain and the treasury full to overflowing.
In the far south, the Nanman King of Kings, Meng Huo, turned a covetous eye on the riches of the Yan while the southward-traveling border angered him. Gathering his forces, he marched into the southern Yan territories, pillaging and plundering. Word arrived in the capital and Huang Zhong swiftly dispatched forces under Gu Yong. A large battle ensued and King Meng Huo was captured in a Yan ambush as he fled through a narrow ravine. The King was bound and brought before Gu Yong.
"Why do you rebel against our Emperor?"
"The two River Lands belonged to others, and your lord took it from them by force, and gave himself the title of Emperor. My people have lived here for ages, and you and your cohorts invaded my country without the least excuse. How can you talk of rebellion to me?"
"You are my prisoner. Will you submit or are you still contumacious?"
"Why should I submit? You happened to find me in a narrow place. That is all."
"If I release you, what then?"
"If you release me I shall return, and when I have set my army in order, I shall come to fight you again. However, if you catch me once more, I will submit."
The King's bonds were loosed. He was clothed and refreshed, given a horse and caparisons, and sent with a guide to his own camp.
This post has been edited by Path-Shaper: 12 July 2011 - 10:45 PM