According to the official histories
Shen Yunbai, courtesy name Yunqi, was a native of Qizhou. Born in the fifteenth year of Yong'an, he was both loyal and courageous, frugal and incorruptible. Above, he would risk death to remonstrate with the emperor; below, he could bring prosperity to the people. He passed the imperial examinations in the thirty-fifth year of Yong'an. Because his literary knowledge spanned the ages, he was exceptionally appointed Junior Preceptor to the Crown Prince. Later, his outstanding achievements in government led him to become Grand Secretary and head of the cabinet. In the end, he gave his life for his country and was posthumously honored as Zhongwu.
The accounts of him in the official histories amount to little more than filling in a few words according to convention, leaving almost all of his life unrecorded. After searching through volume after volume, only one line could be found: [Yunqi was profound as a deep pool and imposing as a mountain, with a scholar's integrity and a hero's heart. He deserved to be renowned for generations, shining alongside the sun and moon.]
According to unofficial histories
In the thirty-seventh year of Yong'an, the Xiongnu repeatedly raided the border. Unable to bear the disturbances any longer, the emperor planned to send Princess Jihua to marry into their clan, hoping to avert war and secure the realm.
Shen Yunbai, then Junior Preceptor to the Crown Prince, strongly opposed the plan. Lord Shen presented a blood-written memorial, arguing with great conviction against the assembled ministers and nobles. He then volunteered to lead a campaign against the Xiongnu, won a great victory, and became the subject of a celebrated tale.
What happened that year
The Bathing Buddha Festival. Burn incense, bathe, and sit before the Buddha in meditation.
The wooden fish drum sounded steadily, its beats echoing between heaven and earth.
Shen Yunbai rolled his prayer beads between his fingers, yet his heart remained restless.
Everyone knew that Lord Shen's words in court were as precious as pearls. He had argued that the nation's prosperity should not be bought with a woman's entire life, and that victory came from a ruler who governed well and ministers who guarded the borders.
But no one knew that Lord Shen had put down his writing brush and taken up arms, risking his life to remonstrate, all for the sake of one person in his heart.
"Princess, there is no moon tonight. I knelt before the Buddha, yet could not see his form or hear the sound of chanting. I am guilty beyond measure. I cannot comprehend the karmic bond, nor cultivate a Buddhist heart."
"Princess, the Buddha cannot save me. I will be your only devotee."
Tonight, I do not worship the Buddha. I only wish for you.
Synopsis screenshotted on 2022.9.19
Theme: The integrity of a scholar-official
