Ruling the Great Song

In this year, Zhao Zhen ascended the throne as Emperor Renzong and changed the era name. It was the first year of Qingli.

In this year, talented people emerged in droves. Countless able ministers came to the fore, with Bao Zheng, Fan Zhongyan, Ouyang Xiu, Han Qi, and Wen Yanbo beginning to make their mark. Under Renzong, they gradually rose to become nobles and ministers, making their voices heard.

In this year, foreign enemies came calling. Western Xia and the Liao Empire eyed the Central Plains, poised to strike.

In this year, natural disasters and man-made calamities plagued the land. Zhao Zhen repeatedly issued edicts accepting blame, praying for Heaven's forgiveness and protection for the people of the Great Song.

And in this same year, Wu Ziyi awoke, still dazed. With his own hands, he would change everything, throwing himself alone into the surging currents of history. Like a tide-turner standing at the crest of a storm, he would look down upon the world.