May Heaven Protect Our Dynasty

The winds of change rise in our dynasty; who lent the wrong hand to overthrow the golden court? Heaven itself protects the imperial house; why fear storms sweeping through the court? It is the Qingyuan era. The dynasty is called Tianyou, and six hundred and fourteen years have passed since its founding. Of the twelve sons of the current emperor, Emperor Qinglin, the eight eldest are each accomplished in letters and arms. The younger boys are also beginning to show their talents. Only Qin Min, the sixth son born to the empress, was judged by his tutor to be “mediocre.” Fortunately, the empress also has an eldest son, Qin Chen, who is clever and knows how to act with restraint. Deeply favored by the emperor, he was named crown prince at the age of twelve. Seven years have passed since then, and he continues to earn unanimous praise throughout the court. He is unquestionably the leading candidate to rule the country in the future. The emperor rules with benevolence, and the land enjoys peace and prosperity. The dynasty is at the height of its strength. And so the story begins in this year, when auspicious snow promises a good harvest...