Feng Ba, formally Wencheng, an emperor (but…

Feng Ba, formally Wencheng, an emperor (but using the title "Heavenly Prince": Tian Wang) of the Chinese state Northern Yan, had become emperor after Gao Yun (Emperor Huiyi), whom he supported in a 407 coup that overthrew Murong Xi of Later Yan, was assassinated in 409.

During his reign, Northern Yan has largely maintained its territorial integrity but made no headway against the much stronger rival Northern Wei.

He is said to have had more than 100 sons.

In 426, Feng Ba's crown prince Feng Yong dies, and he creates another son, Feng Yi, crown prince.

Seriously ill in 430, Feng Ba issues an edict transferring authority to Feng Yi.

However, Feng Ba's favorite concubine Consort Song wants to have her son Feng Shouju inherit the throne, and therefore tells Feng Yi that Feng Ba will soon recover and that he should not be so anxious to take over authority; Feng Yi agrees and withdraws to his palace.

Consort Song then falsely issues orders in Feng Ba's name cutting off communications with the outside, and Feng Yi and Feng Ba's other sons, as well as imperial officials, are not allowed to see Feng Ba.

Only one of her trusted officials, Hu Fu, is able to enter the palace to be in charge of security.

However, Hu is secretly resentful of Consort Song's ambitions, and he informs Feng Ba’s brother Feng Hong, who is prime minister, of her intentions.

Feng Hong immediately attacks the palace and seizes control.

Feng Ba, hearing of this, dies in shock.

Feng Hong now takes the throne himself as Emperor Zhaocheng and, after defeating Feng Yi's troops, slaughters all of Feng Ba's sons.