Better to make the emperor call you Father than to be his dog.
The officials sing his praises: “The young grand councilor’s talent is as vast as the stars, and his virtue as imposing as a mountain.”
The emperor extols him: “Were it not for my Imperial Father, how could I have this splendid realm?”
The court historian celebrates him: “The empire flourishes in all its splendor, fortunate to have such a great man.”
Shen Qingzhi, the young grand councilor: “My dream is simple: ride the fastest horse, drink the strongest liquor, sleep with the wildest women, and see the grandest views. I never expected to get all of it…”
