In 372, when Emperor Jianwen grew ill, he created Sima Yao crown prince and Sima Daozi the Prince of Langye. He died soon thereafter, and Sima Yao assumed the throne as Emperor Xiaowu.
In 372, when Emperor Jianwen fell ill, he designated Sima Yao as crown prince and Sima Daozi as Prince of Langye. He passed away shortly after, and Sima Yao took the throne as Emperor Xiaowu.