In the bustling market street, the Emperor indulges himself in the commoner's world, ignoring the affairs of the state.
In hidden corners, remnants of a bygone dynasty, self-proclaimed noble lineage, gather their spirits, stepping onto the streets, attempting to revive the fallen kingdom of Dayong by drawing distinctions of nobility and commonness based on their bloodline.
Even if they can't succeed, they are determined to render Dayan a powerless entity, becoming nothing but lifeless puppets.
Outside the provincial examination hall, a young man who had twice failed the imperial exams, his head growing as large as a bushel from reading, gazes skyward and laments.
"A great man should serve on the battlefield, stabilizing the internal and dispelling external threats. How can one remain in the confines of pen and ink for long, wasting precious time?"