In the province of Liangzhou, a tyrant named Zhang was appointed to rule. His leadership was marked by paranoia and cruelty. Arbitrary punishments were meted out based on his whims, creating an atmosphere of fear.

A court official named Yin Hun attempted to reason with Zhang, urging him to rule with more kindness. However, Zhang dismissed his advice with arrogance, likening his nature to that of a fierce tiger.

This dismissal further alienated the people of Liangzhou. They saw the way he dismissed Yin Hun's advice and recoiled from his callousness. Despair filled the hearts of the citizens who yearned for a just leader.

Among the people of Liangzhou, there was a loyal general named Song Hun. His reputation for honesty and upright character was well-known. Zhang feared his influence and plotted to eliminate him along with his younger brother Song Cheng.

Zhang's plot involved deposing the current ruler, Zhang Xuanjing, and usurping the throne himself. To consolidate his power, Zhang started raising an army of several tens of thousands, gathered in the city of Guzang.

Word of Zhang's intent reached Song Hun. Understanding the gravity of the situation, Song Hun and his brother, Song Cheng, rallied a small band of brave warriors, led by Yang He, and stealthily made their way towards the city.

Entering the southern part of the city, the small group started spreading news of Zhang's treachery amongst the military camps. They claimed to be acting under the command of the Empress Dowager, which added weight to their words.

Their words ignited the dormant loyalty in the soldiers' hearts, gathering a force of two thousand in no time. Their numbers were still smaller than Zhang's, but their resolve was unshakable.

As Zhang marched out to meet this unexpected revolt, he was met with fierce resistance. Despite having superior numbers, his troops were routed by Song Hun's strategic attacks.

Attempting to turn the tide, one of Zhang's men, Xuan Lu tried to assassinate Song Hun. His attempt failed, and he was captured by Song Hun, further demoralizing Zhang's forces.

Witnessing the capture of Xuan Lu, Zhang's remaining forces surrendered. Realization sinking in, Zhang and his brother, Zhang Ju, chose to end their own lives rather than face the consequences of their treachery.

Song Hun went on to purge Zhang's remaining family, ensuring that no future threats would emerge from the disgraced family. With this grim task completed, he turned his attention towards restoring order in the realm.

Zhang Xuanjing, grateful for Song Hun's actions, appointed him as the Grand General, giving him control over all military affairs, and the title of Marquis of Jiuquan, taking over Zhang's logistical duties.

In response, Song Hun humbly requested the ruler to abandon the title of "Liang Wang" or "Prince of Liang", and restore the title of "Liangzhou Mu", which was less monarchical in nature.

Turning to Xuan Lu, his would-be assassin, Song Hun stated, “You tried to kill me and failed. I survived and now I am here, helping run the state affairs. You must be afraid.”

Xuan Lu, however, showed no fear. He retorted, “I availed of Zhang’s generosity, and only regret not having killed you thoroughly. I fear nothing!” This surprising response from Xuan Lu earned Song Hun's respect.

Recognizing his unwavering loyalty, Song Hun decided to keep Xuan Lu close. He admired his enemy’s integrity and thought it to be a valuable trait. Thus, Xuan Lu became one of Song Hun's confidants, marking a new era in Liangzhou.