An Lushan's rebellion rages, fire scorches the Kunlun peaks.
The two capitals blaze fiercely, turned into battlegrounds.
Officials flee in haste, the emperor in panic retreats.
Which city can hold fast? Which land escapes the rounds?
Gaze upon the Sui River, its waters surging wide.
There stands a city with its folk, on the river's southern side.
Zhang Xun, stationed far, patrols the land with might.
Entrusted with the city's guard, he shoulders duty right.
The rebels come from west, their murderous aura bold.
Forests of banners march, toward the city's stronghold.
Zhang Xun and Xu Yuan ascend, resolute and stern.
The city's people, heartened, with doubled zeal they burn.
The rebels see the city firm, encamp with food in store.
Within the walls, provisions fail, beloved steeds they slay for more.
The soldiers' loyalty unwavering, though wounded, they stand tall.
Rather die defending the city than let the city fall.
Nan Jiyun, brave and fierce, leaps from the wall in flight.
To He Lanjin in Si he goes, seeking aid in plight.
He Lanjin feasts Jiyun, with wine and meat arrayed.
Jiyun leaves the seat, to the gathered host he said:
The people of Suiyang, for a month have eaten naught.
In righteousness, I cannot feast alone, each bite in throat is caught.
He cuts his finger with a blade, all around in tears they weep.
What manner of man is this, who loyalty and honor deep
Feels no stirring in his heart, lets rebel deeds prevail?
Not sending a single soldier, watching as we fail.
Jiyun's heart is broken, piece by piece like iron hard.
Jiyun on his saddle sits, wrath makes his hair stand, regard.
An arrow marks his vow, to return though incomplete.
Passersby who witness this, shed tears in sorrow deep.
Those who hear from far and near, for this feel bitter pain.
Strength exhausted, resources gone, the city stands alone, in vain.
To death he yields not, though myriad spears assail.
Sincerity shines from within, his countenance does not pale.
His body light as goose down, his name weighty as Mount Tai.
I hold Tang's law, no tolerance for treachery's lie.
Before An Lushan is punished, first He Lanjin must die.