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by Chen Shubao Fair pavilions and fragrant woods stand by the lofty towers,Her newly dressed beauty outshines the whole city’s charms.Her tender grace glints by the gate, she lingers at first,Then steps from the curtain, smiling with graceful airs.Her lovely face like flowers draped in dewdrops glows,Jade trees’ bright radiance fills the rear courtyard.Flowers…
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The Sudden Death of a Reformer When Emperor Wu of Northern Zhou died unexpectedly in 578, rumors spread like wildfire. Former monks – many of whom had been forcibly defrocked during his anti-Buddhist campaign – claimed:“He banned the Buddha and was dragged to hell!”