Buzz
Bao Chửng was compelled to unveil the truth to Triển Chiêu. What secrets lay shrouded in mystery behind this revelation?
Bao Chửng (999 – 1062), often referred to as Bao Thanh Thiên or Bao Công, stood as a renowned official in the Northern Song dynasty. Renowned for his integrity, strict adherence to the law, and unwavering moral principles under the reign of Emperor Tống Nhân Tông.
Famous for his uprightness, integrity, and notably, Bao Chửng's prowess in administering justice has been lauded through the ages. Folklore reveres his ability to solve countless perplexing cases.
Bao Chửng was not only a master detective but also had a band of loyal and skilled individuals surrounding him. Among them, Triển Chiêu stood out—an iconic figure during Emperor Tống Nhân Tông's era.
The legendary martial artist Triển Chiêu, well-known in folklore and immortalized in novels and films. A formidable figure from the Jianghu, possessing exceptional martial skills, hailed as the Southern Hero. Impressed by Bao Chửng's just governance, Triển Chiêu joined forces, and Bao Chửng recommended him to the emperor. He was bestowed with the title of Imperial Guardian, adorned with the belt and sword.
This noble companion always stood by Bao Chửng's side, aiding in solving cases and ensuring his safety. Given Bao Chửng's righteous stance, attempts on his life were not a rare occurrence. However, each time, he emerged unscathed, partly due to his own luck and the vigilant protection of Triển, a formidable martial guardian.
In early July 1062, Bao Chửng fell fatally ill at his workplace, reaching the age of 63. Legend has it that before passing away, he shared a mysterious statement with Triển Chiêu. Strangely, after Bao's demise, the Southern Hero Triển Chiêu vanished abruptly. Did Bao Chửng enlist Triển Chiêu for a mission, or did a misunderstanding arise in their final moments? What lies behind the enigmatic disappearance of Triển Chiêu?
In his final moments, as he gasped for breath, Bao addressed Triển Chiêu: 'After my demise, you should resign and return to your homeland, seeking refuge in the mountains. Only then can you preserve your life'.
Clearly, after Bao Chửng's passing, Triển Chiêu had two tasks at hand: resign from his post and return to his homeland, finding solace in the mountains. Why did Bao Chửng instruct Triển Chiêu in such a manner?
Why did Bao Chửng specifically instruct Triển Chiêu?
Throughout his life, Bao Chửng was an upright official, dedicated to protecting justice. Even if members of the royal family committed crimes, they faced the same consequences as ordinary citizens. This approach angered many high-ranking officials. Bao Chửng became a thorn in the side of those who disregarded the law, drawing the ire of court officials. Hating and wanting to eliminate Bao Chửng naturally extended to Triển Chiêu, his loyal martial guardian with exceptional skills who always accompanied him for protection.
During his lifetime, Bao Chửng's favor with the emperor shielded him from the hatred of his enemies. However, with Bao Chửng gone, those close to him faced imminent danger. Among them, Triển Chiêu was undoubtedly the prime target for assassination. Furthermore, Triển Chiêu not only had to contend with officials hostile to Bao Chửng but also had accumulated enemies through his adventures in the martial world.
Despite his formidable martial prowess, Triển Chiêu couldn't fend off adversaries alone. Without an escape route, the only path for Triển, the martial guardian, was death.
Bao Chửng revealed this to Triển Chiêu so that the grand hero could swiftly flee the political arena, ensuring the preservation of his own life.
Triển Chiêu naturally understood Bao Chửng's concerns. Consequently, he adhered to Bao Chửng's final wish. Indeed, after the righteous official's passing, Triển Chiêu mysteriously vanished. Those plotting against Triển, the guardian, were helpless. No one knew where Triển Chiêu had gone.
Perhaps this grand hero chose to live among the common people, secluded in the mountains, indifferent to worldly affairs, as per Bao Chửng's wish. Triển Chiêu was a free-spirited individual, fond of freedom. Serving as an official and standing by Bao Chửng was solely to protect the official. Therefore, after Bao Chửng's demise, his mission naturally concluded.
Moreover, accompanying Bao Chửng meant Triển Chiêu made numerous sacrifices. After many years of association, Bao Chửng understood this well. Posthumously, he wished for Triển Chiêu to withdraw from the political scene, allowing him to fulfill his lingering aspirations.
Even though centuries have passed, the tales of Bao Chửng, Triển Chiêu, and their intriguing cases continue to be passed down through folklore to this day.
References for this article: Sohu, Sina, Baidu
