Sending You Off on a Crane

Though it was a village residence outside the city, it had gathered half the civil and military officials of the court, along with countless distinguished scholars and renowned figures.

People had brought medicinal herbs and gifts, waiting outside the gate.

They had nearly blocked the village roads.

"Flap, flap, flap..."

A swallow flew over and landed on the eaves.

The Daoist approached, leaning on a bamboo staff and carrying a brocade pouch, with a little girl beside him who likewise had a satchel slung over her shoulder.

The murmur of people's discussions could faintly be heard.

"If not for Lord Yu establishing charitable estates and schools, and opening his doors so generously, how could people like us ever have risen to prominence?"

"During Lord Yu's ten years as prime minister, he was an incorruptible official, always upright and unyielding. With treacherous villains holding sway at court, it was Lord Yu alone who held things together. Yet only a few months after Lord Yu resigned, the court has already been stirred into a foul miasma..."

"Lord Yu must recover quickly!"

"The entire court has no successors..."

"Heaven must open its eyes..."

"This student..."

The Daoist stood at the very back of the crowd, still a fair distance from its end, and looked toward the old residence.

The sound of loud wailing had already come from within.

"Lord Yu, please."

The Daoist spoke to the house as well.

Then he stood motionless, waiting patiently.

All at once, the crying inside swelled. Some shouted for their father, while others loudly called out the hour: the third quarter of the hour of the Goat. Everyone, whether in the courtyard outside the house or on the road beyond it, immediately understood. People before and behind the house covered their faces and wept, and cries of