舊唐書

The work opens with a sweeping portrait of the founder of a new era, tracing his noble ancestry back through generations of frontier warriors and officials. It paints Li Yuan as a charismatic, outspoken figure—quick to win the loyalty of both common folk and seasoned generals—while chronicling his early service under the waning Sui regime. The narrative captures his reputation for generosity and his growing reputation for shrewd political insight, setting the stage for a dramatic turning point.

As unrest spreads across the empire, Li Yuan is thrust into a series of urgent assignments, from defending distant frontiers to quelling uprisings. When the Sui court’s suspicion turns to hostility, he seizes the moment, rallying allies and leading daring campaigns that topple fortified cities. The chronicle follows his calculated marches, the fierce clashes on riverbanks and mountain passes, and the moment he declares a new reign, hinting at the profound transformation that will reshape the realm.