During the Spring and Autumn period, a war broke out between the states of Zheng and Song.

Hua Yuan, the commander of the Song army, forgot to reward his chariot driver, Yang Zhen, while distributing provisions to his soldiers. Yang Zhen harbored resentment.

During a battle, he deliberately drove Hua Yuan's war chariot straight into the enemy camp, resulting in Hua Yuan's capture.

Later, Hua Yuan managed to escape and returned to the State of Song. One day, while inspecting the construction of the city walls, he was mocked by the laborers who chanted, 'Your beard is full on your cheeks, luxuriant and flowing! You abandoned your helmet and armor, yet you still carry yourself with such arrogance!'