Emperor Ku Ji Xun was born exceptionally intelligent and could state his own name while still young. He widely bestowed favor without showing partiality to himself; his ears were sharp enough to hear things a thousand li away, and his eyes keen enough to discern the tiniest details. He followed the Way of Heaven in establishing government, understood the people's hardships, and extended benevolence. He was imposing without being fierce, generous yet trustworthy. He cultivated himself and upheld righteousness, winning the hearts of all under Heaven.
He took advantage of the land's natural benefits without exploiting them, and taught the people while emphasizing practical gains. He observed the stars to establish the calendar, revered the spirits, and performed sacrifices with caution. His bearing was warm and honest, his virtue deep and weighty, his movements measured, and his clothing plain. When Emperor Ku held to the middle way, all under Heaven submitted. Wherever sunlight reached and wind and rain fell, everyone bowed their heads and obeyed.
Ji Xun especially loved musical law. He ordered the musicians Xian and Hei to create elegant pieces such as the Nine Invocations, Six Arrangements, and Six Blossoms. He also sent Le Chui to cast bells, make drums, and carve chimes, accompanied by sixty-four dancers dressed in multicolored Nishang. They danced as the music rose.
When the music first began, auspicious clouds rolled across the sky. Phoenixes, great pheasants, and other auspicious birds flew in groups to the palace, wheeling and circling as they danced gracefully in harmony. As the ancient saying went: Only one of supreme virtue could bring forth such auspicious omens.
At that time, Empress Liu dreamed at night that Lou Jin Gou Star fell into her arms. After waking, she felt a dull ache in her ear and urgently summoned the imperial