As Light as a Clear Dream (Qing Dynasty Era)

To the Tune of Lin Jiang Xian

Where have the drifting petals and blossoms gone? Layer upon layer of ice and snow has battered them. A lone tree stands sparse in the cold of the fifth watch. I love the bright moon, and even in my desolation, it shares my sorrow.

Most of all, after the tangled branches have shed their leaves, they make me think of spring mountains. The dream of washing my skirt by the stream is broken, and may never return. How much resentment does the west wind bear? It cannot blow away the furrow between my brows.

When the dazzling sunlight falls warmly upon my face, the helpless, uncertain past slips through my fingertips like water, disappearing into yesterday. In the blink of an eye, a new hope appears.

From the small bridges and flowing streams of Jiangnan, I travel north. In the flourishing imperial capital, amid three thousand splendors and the mortal world's endless bustle, I suddenly come to a stop. Who is the one beloved I would trade countless fleeting moments of glamour to find?

Yellow sand blots out the sun, banners snap in the wind, and warhorses charge beneath flashing blades. Broken spears and raised swords reveal nothing but bloodshed. The chivalry of the martial world, its loyalty and ideals, bring countless heroes to ruin.

After countless twists and turns, I finally understand: all the things of this life are as insubstantial as a fleeting dream.

When I have time, I'll consider filling in this unfinished story. I'm truly sorry to everyone who stumbled into this pit.