It was autumn, in the fifth year of Tianbao. The young Emperor, via a secret letter, made a promise to Shang Shanhu. "I will return Xiao En home to our country." And so the famous general, Shang Shanhu, left behind the northern fortress he had commanded for over a decade. With a band of soldiers and Tan Wu, he departed and made way to the capital Shangjing, for he believed the Emperor was never one for deception.
Upon Xiao En’s capture in the capital, the Emperor had no desire to let him go, for he longed to know the secrets he harbored.
During this time, Empress Dowager wanted Xiao En dead, for Ku He did not desire for anyone else to know of Xiao En’s secrets.