Late Tang: I, Huang Chao, Claim Chang’an

In 838 AD, the third year of the Kaicheng era under Emperor Wenzong of Tang. The aftermath of the Sweet Dew Incident still cast a shadow over the court. Qiu Shiliang wielded unchecked power, wreaking havoc in government, murdering princes and ministers alike while the court fell silent. Exam fraud was rampant, and Pei Siqian used a letter from a powerful eunuch to claim the top spot. Talented scholars from humble families had no way to serve their country. The regional military governors ruled as independent powers, the people could barely survive, and the Tang Dynasty was nearing its end, teetering on the brink of collapse. Eighteen-year-old Huang Chao arrived in this age with memories of a later era. Though he was a failed scholar, he knew that one day he would raise an army and sweep across the land. But for now, he had yet to grow strong enough, and even sitting the imperial examinations required careful deliberation. He had hoped to settle for a minor official post and earn a modest salary, but in the chaos of the late Tang, honest officials had no chance of survival. If the world is unjust, then defy fate and make your own way: When I become the Green Emperor, all flowers will bloom, then perish!