Chapter 1: The fluctuations of the world are difficult to reconcile

"Dear brother, there is no need for such concern. The morning breeze is chilly; do not let my dear brother and sister catch a cold again!" Zhao Zheng spoke with a hint of melancholy

If there truly is war and turmoil, it will be the surnamed who suffer, and who knows how many people will be displaced and forced to leave their homes at that time

Yun Bozhen's eyes were slightly red as he received the package with both hands

Both individuals remained silent, with only sighs to be heard

In the present day, there is a web of deceit among the political circles, with numerous factions vying for power. The atmosphere of corruption and extravagance permeates both the court and the common people. To the west, there are barbaric nations that appear respectful, yet harbor ulterior motives; they are likely unwilling to remain as subjects. In the south, bandits run rampant, and the Southern King seems to have treasonous intentions, aiming to divide the territory and rule independently. To the north, enemy nations eye us covetously, and the treaty established three hundred years ago may soon fade into history. Yun Bo could not help but sigh deeply, feeling utterly powerless.

Upon hearing these words, Zhang felt a pang in his nose, his eyes slightly reddened, as if he were about to shed tears again

Did you not always wish to go to the south to see the perpetual spring and the blooming flowers? In the past, there was no time, but now that we are free from the constraints of court and the burdens of paperwork, let us go to the south! We shall find a secluded little village where I will farm and you will weave, and from then on, we shall no longer concern ourselves with matters of the officialdom

The virtuous brother harbors the world in his heart, wholeheartedly devoted to the country and its people, determined to seek the welfare of all living beings. However, it is regrettable that treacherous officials dominate the court, misleading the sovereign, and attempting to gloss over the turmoil, disregarding the safety and security of the nation, content with a life of ease and comfort. Little do they know that within, there are no legal scholars to uphold justice, and outside, there are no enemies to fend off; the nation is bound to perish. The six hundred years of the Song Dynasty's foundation is likely to be destroyed by these treacherous officials. Zhao Zheng clenched his fists and gazed at the rising sun, speaking sternly.

In the dimness of the night, as the cold wind begins to rise, it lifts the veil of the crescent moon, which lingers above the treetops. Overlooking Kyoto, the lanterns in the eaves and tile alleys shine brightly throughout the night. Listening closely, the sound of silk music pierces through the clouds.

Let us not discuss these matters any further. Brother Yunxian has offended so many powerful figures this time, and it is likely that he will be unable to settle down near the capital. I wonder where you intend to go

He weakly stood up from the chair, his clothing as neat as ever, with a hint of cloudiness in his eyes. Even under the flickering candlelight, his pale complexion was still evident

Indeed, it is true that the Emperor, in his old age, prefers to witness peaceful times and the flourishing of music and dance, unwilling to confront the reality. If that is the case, so be it; yet he still employs treacherous ministers like Hu Chengde, favoring sycophants while distancing himself from virtuous officials. One cannot help but wonder how much longer this seemingly peaceful era can last

Within three months thereafter, Yun Bozhen's friends and relatives were all implicated. In desperation, these individuals had no choice but to distance themselves from Yun Bozhen to avoid being drawn into the matter. His friend, the Fourth Prince Zhao Zhen, tirelessly worked in both the court and the public sphere in hopes of clearing his name. After nearly three months of efforts by the Fourth Prince, Yun Bozhen was finally released from prison; however, he was stripped of his official position, his assets were confiscated, and the Song Emperor ordered his expulsion from the capital, prohibiting him from returning for the rest of his life. As if the roof had leaked just as the rain began to fall, by the time Yun Bozhen was released from prison, his wife, Zhang, had fallen gravely ill. A series of blows left Yun Bozhen disheartened, and from that point on, he became increasingly reticent about matters of the officialdom, resolving to distance himself from political affairs.

The thousand journeys come to an end, yet the heartfelt feelings are hard to erase, an endless sorrow. The distant banks of the Chu River and Xiang River separate us, hoping to entrust my longing to the wild geese. A letter of a foot in length, a letter of a foot in length, a letter frequently sent, as if we were close, as if we were close. Alas! From this day forth, parting brings frequent dreams of longing across two places, hearing the arrival of the wild geese.

Yun Bozhen was already exhausted, reflecting on all the changes that had occurred at home since March, and the inhumane treatment he had suffered in prison. The root cause of it all was merely his unwillingness to collude with the officials, to form factions for personal gain, and his persistent refusal to align himself with any faction in the court, which angered the powerful figures within. During his tenure as a Censor, he had repeatedly submitted memorials to impeach several officials for their crimes of oppressing the common people, deceiving superiors, and engaging in corruption and bribery. This action touched upon the interests of the court, further inciting the ire of the powerful. However, he had gained the emperor's favor, and the Fourth Prince had taken a liking to him, coupled with his recent success as a top scholar, which made the officials hesitant to harm him, leaving him to wait for an opportunity. Yun Bozhen recalled his initial ambition and brilliance, intending to achieve great things and benefit his family, but he was ultimately too young, too eager for success, and failed to foresee the schemes of treacherous individuals. Initially, he thought that the officials would obstruct him due to his repeated impeachments of the powerful, but to his surprise, the nobles greatly appreciated his actions and often praised him. Now, looking back, he realized that it was merely a trick used by the powerful in the court, a tactic of flattery that could lead to a heavier fall the higher one was raised. It was laughable that he thought they feared him, which led him to act even more sharply, ultimately provoking Emperor Song. At this moment, there were those who took the opportunity to strike him down, advising Emperor Song to impeach him on various charges, with the treacherous minister Hu Chengde also fanning the flames behind the scenes, resulting in his misfortune and implicating his friends and family.

Three months ago, a sudden upheaval occurred in the Yun residence. The Grand Councilor Yun Bozhen was imprisoned on charges of corruption, bribery, and forming cliques for personal gain. Once this incident came to light, it was as if a stone had been thrown into a lake, creating ripples in the seemingly tranquil waters of the capital, spreading overnight to every corner of the city. Everyone knew that Yun Bozhen had served as an official for three years, having been a top scholar in the imperial examination. From a young age, he distinguished himself with his literary and poetic talents. Although he may not have been renowned throughout the land, he was well-known in the capital, attributed to his abilities, his family background, and the three hundred years of scholarly lineage, with generations serving as officials. Though his family had declined, it was still not to be underestimated. Therefore, once this matter emerged, the entire city was aware, and discussions erupted in the streets and alleys.

Brother Zhao, although the nation appears to be in a state of peace and prosperity, with harmony prevailing both in the court and among the people, in reality, there are hidden undercurrents. The princes are vying for the throne, engaging in both open and covert struggles against one another. Being in the midst of this, Brother Zhao, you must exercise utmost caution and prudence. Do not act as I did, seeking momentary relief by venting your dissatisfaction to the Emperor, which has led to today's calamity.

You need not worry, dear brother Yunxian. I am well aware of the gravity of this matter. Furthermore, although I do not enjoy the favor of Father Emperor, I am still a prince of the realm. Even a tiger does not eat its own cubs; as long as I do not touch the dragon's scales or covet the throne, Father Emperor will not take any action against me. The current situation is indeed not optimistic, yet Father Emperor...

There is no need for politeness. When we first met, you were not this courteous. I still remember how you, my dear brother, pointed out the landscape with such ambition and confidence. Even to this day, I am still greatly impressed by you. Alas! Zhao Zheng sighed, "With your departure, our Song Dynasty has lost another pillar of support."

Reflecting on the events of the past three months, both individuals could not help but feel a deep sense of nostalgia

Noble one, the Fourth Prince is ahead." The coachman outside called out as the carriage traveled a short distance

I can only blame myself for being too sharp on that day, not knowing how to hold back. Otherwise, I could have used this weak body to assist Brother Zhao. Alas... I have much to owe to the lady. This time, I will heed her advice and seek a small village in the south to spend the rest of my life. From now on, I will no longer concern myself with matters of the court.

The next day, as the morning light began to break, Yun Bozhen and his wife, Zhang, departed from Bianjing in a horse-drawn carriage. The wheels of the carriage creaked rhythmically on the uneven road, was this the melancholy of leaving? Inside the carriage, Zhang nestled against Yun Bozhen's shoulder

Brother Zhao, there is no need to discuss past matters again! Uncle Yun is truly disheartened.

The sun has finally risen above the horizon, the morning light has painted the road yellow, has painted the departing carriages yellow, has painted the person playing the lute by the ancient path yellow. In this early winter, perhaps all things begin to fall silent, yet only the parting sorrows, like light smoke, and the lingering melodies of the lute continue unabated

Upon hearing this, Yun Bozhen was about to take his wife and children off the carriage, when at that moment, the Fourth Prince rode over.

The carriage moved slowly, and Yun Bozhen lifted the curtain, glancing at the gradually receding Kyoto with his wife. He watched as Zhao Zhen's figure became increasingly blurred in his sight, eventually turning into a dot before disappearing completely. Only then did Yun Bozhen reluctantly lower the curtain, gently wrapping his left arm around Zhang's shoulders, continuously murmuring, "In life, to have a confidant like you is a blessing; I have no regrets in this life. I hope you take care of yourself, cherish yourself, cherish yourself."

Husband, where are we going?

Brother Zhao, parting after sending you a thousand miles is inevitable, there is no need for further farewells. At this moment, Zhao Zhen had already accompanied him for nearly 30 miles. Along the way, Yun Bo truly wanted to remind Zhao Zhen to return early to attend to urgent state affairs, but knowing that this parting would make future meetings uncertain, he chose to remain silent.

Yun Bozhen sat alone in the hall, the night was so quiet it was unsettling, as if only the occasional sound of the watchman's bell from outside the courtyard could alleviate the endless chill and solitude of this dark night

"A good man stands tall and firm, why then adopt such a feminine demeanor?" Zhao Zheng turned away, her voice choked with emotion, no longer looking at Yun Bozhen

Morning rain in Weicheng moistens the light dust, the guesthouse is surrounded by fresh green willows. I urge you to drink another cup of wine, for beyond Yangguan there are no old friends! Fragrant grass spreads like a carpet. Fine wine, fine wine, though not yet drunk, my heart is already rich. Carrying swift steeds, carrying swift steeds, when will we speak of the turning wheels, how many rounds can we toast!

There are no familiar faces on this journey, and the road ahead is fraught with difficulties. Since this farewell, I do not know when we will meet again. I hope you take care of yourself!

Since you have made up your mind, I will not say anything further. However, regarding your sister-in-law's illness... do not delay. " Saying this, he handed a package to Yun Bozhen, "Inside are three hundred taels of silver, as well as some medicinal pills for strengthening the foundation. Do not postpone, this is a small token of my goodwill as your elder brother.

Zhao Zhen accompanied him all the way, leaving everyone else speechless

Yun Bozhen lifted the curtain of the carriage and said, "Brother Zhao, I have not yet expressed my gratitude for your kindness in saving me. Today, you have gone to the trouble of coming all this way to see me off. I am deeply moved in my heart."