In the mid-Ming dynasty, the empire’s power was waning, beset by troubles at home and abroad. Nomadic peoples in the north, including the Oirat Mongols and Tatars, frequently raided the borders, burning, killing, and pillaging, while the people suffered terribly. In the south, Japanese pirates ran rampant, leaving coastal communities in misery. At court, rival factions fought bitterly, officials were corrupt, and politics were mired in darkness. In this turbulent age, a group of passionate young people stepped forward and embarked on an epic journey to bring peace to their country and happiness to its people.
