The Civet Cat Replaces the Crown Prince

The first year of the Jingde era was one that must never be forgotten in Chinese history. That year, the Liao army launched a massive invasion of the Song, and northern prefectures and counties sent out urgent pleas for help one after another. Even though the Song army had clearly gained the upper hand, Emperor Zhenzong of Song insisted on making peace with the Liao, resulting in the signing of the famous Treaty of Chanyuan. Most dramatic of all, Zhao Heng's name was not on the succession list initially drawn up by Emperor Taizong of Song, Zhao Guangyi. Fortuitously appointed crown prince, he did not ascend the throne without a struggle. The other strange tale from the Song dynasty, after the "Axe Sounds and Candle Shadows" incident, was the story of the "Civet Cat for the Crown Prince," which was directly connected to him.