In the hazy morning mist, the ancient walls of Shengjing seem to carry endless stories. Inside the city, in a dilapidated mansion, Zhou Peigong, a prominent minister who had once been famous in the imperial court, was sitting quietly by the flickering candlelight. His face looked haggard, but his eyes shone with determination and depth. On the wall hangs a huge picture scroll that is about to be completed, the Imperial Map, which is the culmination of his years of hard work and the last testimony of his deep concern for the country. Zhou Peigong's fingers gently touched the edge of the scroll, as if in a silent dialogue with the past years.
This scene seems to coincide with a scene in "Kangxi Dynasty". In the TV series, Zhou Peigong was relegated to the distant Shengjing, and after 11 years of wind, frost, rain and snow, but at the last moment of his life, he resolutely dedicated his imperial picture to Emperor Kangxi. This move made countless viewers wonder: why is an old minister who has been degraded and received a cold reception still willing to sacrifice his hard work before his death?
Zhou Peigong's final contribution
Zhou Peigong has left an immortal mark in Chinese history. His story begins with a decisive mission in the context of turbulent times, when he is ordered to go to Chahar and complete a difficult task.
Zhou Peigong rode a horse through rugged mountain roads and vast grasslands, and finally arrived at Chahar. The local customs were very different from the south that Zhou Peigong was familiar with, but he did not waver, and his determination was as firm as iron.
In his meeting with the Chahar chieftain, Zhou Peigong demonstrated his wisdom and diplomatic skills. His words were concise and powerful, showing both his sincerity and respect for the Chahar nation.
In negotiations again and again, Zhou Peigong not only persuaded the other party with his wisdom, but also won their trust through his sincerity. Eventually, the Chahar chieftain agreed to surrender peacefully, an achievement that caused a great stir at the time.
However, Zhou Peigong's glorious moment did not get the respect he deserved. Under the influence of Mingzhu and others, Emperor Kangxi did not reward Zhou Peigong, but sent him to distant Shengjing.
Neglected heroes
Before Zhou Peigong was sent to Shengjing, his position in the capital was once enviable. His resourcefulness and bravery were well known in the court, however, all this changed under the control of Mingzhu and others. Emperor Kangxi's decision, although not explicitly stated, has already shown his distrust of Zhou Peigong in his words. For Zhou Peigong, it was a huge transformation, from the center of the capital to the distant frontier.
When he received the order to transfer to Shengjing, Zhou Peicheng was dealing with the affairs of the DPRK and China. He read the edict carefully, without any emotional fluctuations on his face. He packed his belongings and prepared to go. As he said goodbye, his colleagues came to his mansion one after another, some worried, others silently standing aside. Their eyes were full of mixed emotions, but Zhou Peigong just said goodbye to them lightly.
Zhou Peigong embarked on the journey to Shengjing. It was a long and difficult journey, and he had to cross lofty mountains and boundless grasslands. During his journey, he encountered various difficulties. The biting cold wind and the snow sliding were challenges he had never experienced before. But he remained steadfast towards his destination, without any hesitation.
After arriving in Shengjing, Zhou Peigong was faced with a completely new environment. The climate here is very different from that of the south, and the winters are particularly harsh. He needs to adapt to the lifestyle and working environment here. Despite the difficult conditions, Zhou Peigong still insisted on handling official duties every day and worked tirelessly. He often goes to the people to understand the living conditions of the local people and strive to improve their living conditions.
In the first winter of Shengjing, Zhou Peigong encountered a great test. He had to adapt to biting cold and frequent snowstorms. Whenever night fell and the cold wind howled, he still stuck to his study, studying the strategies of local governance. Despite the harsh environment, he never had any complaints.
In the fifth year of Shengjing, Zhou Peigong began his magnum opus, the Imperial Map. It's a huge project that encompasses a lot of information and data, and it takes a lot of time and effort. He studied historical documents in depth and collected a wide range of information on geography and people's feelings. Despite being on the frontier, he was able to accurately grasp the political and economic dynamics of the country.
Although Zhou Peigong's life in Shengjing was lonely and difficult, his fame and influence continued to spread in the local area. His care for the people and fair administration earned him the respect of the local people. His justice and wisdom also left a deep mark on the frontier.
Perseverance
During his eleven years in Shengjing, Zhou Peigong's daily life was full of challenges and hardships. The climate in Shengjing is extremely cold, especially in winter, and the temperature often drops below freezing. Although Zhou Peigong's residence was simple, he never complained, and got up early every day to personally light the fire to ward off the biting cold.
Despite the difficult living conditions, Zhou Peigong always adhered to his duties. Every morning after the court, he would be busy in the yamen to deal with all kinds of government affairs. He carefully reviews every step of the story to ensure that every decision is well thought out. His office was full of papers and materials all year round, and he often worked late into the night with the lights on.
During his stay in Shengjing, Zhou Peigong also paid special attention to the livelihood of the people in the frontier. He often went out among the people and listened to their voices. Knowing that farmers were struggling due to the harsh climate and barren land, he set out to improve these problems. He introduced agricultural reforms, introduced crop cultivation methods that were more suited to the local climate, and organized technical training to help farmers improve their farming skills.
In addition to agriculture, Zhou Peigong also pays attention to the development of local education and culture. He advocated the establishment of schools in Shengjing, and advocated cultural education, so that local children could have the opportunity to receive education. He personally participated in the design of the curriculum and the compilation of teaching materials, hoping to improve the cultural literacy of the people in the border areas through education.
While dealing with these affairs, Zhou Peigong did not forget to maintain the stability of the frontier. He regularly patrols the border to learn about the state of the border troops and works to improve the living and training conditions of the soldiers. He often personally discussed military strategies with his generals to ensure the security and stability of the border.
Thanks to Zhou Peigong's efforts, Shengjing's social stability and economic development have been significantly improved. The living conditions of the people have been improved, and they are full of respect and gratitude to Zhou Peigong. They often send specialties from their hometown as a way to show their respect for Zhou Peigong.
In the last stage of Zhou Peigong's life, the Kangxi Emperor came to visit him in Shengjing. Although Zhou Peigong was weak, he still insisted on welcoming the emperor. Emperor Kangxi asked about Zhou Peigong's physical condition, and Zhou Peigong replied: "Your Majesty, the minister's health is not as good as before, but he is concerned about state affairs. Emperor Kangxi expressed concern and expressed high appreciation for Zhou Peigong's contribution in Shengjing.
The last moments of life
The visit of Emperor Kangxi was an important moment for Zhou Peigong. The emperor's car slowly drove into Shengjing, and people welcomed him along the streets, and Zhou Peigong, despite his illness and weakness, still wore court clothes and stood in front of the yamen to greet him. Emperor Kangxi stepped out of the car and walked towards Zhou Peigong with a smile on his face, Zhou Peigong bent slightly and saluted, although his movements were slow, but still showed respect.
Emperor Kangxi and Zhou Peigong walked into the yamen together, and they came to Zhou Peigong's office. The room was furnished with simple furniture, and the walls were hung with maps and strategic drawings that Zhou Peigong had drawn over the years. Emperor Kangxi looked around, then looked at Zhou Peigong and asked, "Lord Zhou, I heard that you are unwell, it is really worrying. ”
Zhou Peigong replied softly: "Your Majesty, Weichen is old and frail, I am afraid it will be difficult to serve the imperial court anymore. After hearing this, Emperor Kangxi showed concern on his face, but did not say much. He turned to ask Zhou Peigong about his work in Shengjing in recent years.
Zhou Peigong reported to the Kangxi Emperor on his efforts and achievements in Shengjing, and he talked about agricultural reform, educational development, and border security. Emperor Kangxi bowed his head after hearing this, obviously recognizing Zhou Peigong's contribution. He pondered for a moment and said, "Lord Zhou, I know your abilities very well, and the imperial court needs a virtuous minister like you. ”
Zhou Peigong shook his head slightly, indicating that his body no longer allowed him to take on heavy responsibilities. But he recommended to the Kangxi Emperor Yao Qiyuan, a candidate he thought could take on the responsibilities of the state. Emperor Kangxi listened carefully to Zhou Peigong's recommendation and said that he would consider it deeply.
As Emperor Kangxi was about to leave, Zhou Peigong asked his entourage to present a heavy scroll to the emperor. This is the result of his years of hard work - Huangtu. This drawing is a detailed record of Zhou Peigong's views and plans on national governance, geography, economy, and military affairs.
Emperor Kangxi took the imperial map and carefully unfolded it. He was amazed by the meticulous brushstrokes and far-reaching insights in the pictures. He knew that this was not just a drawing, but Zhou Peigong's deep thinking and ardent expectations for the future of the country.
Although Zhou Peigong was physically weak, his words were still clear and powerful in his conversations with Emperor Kangxi, showing his deep understanding and concern for state affairs. Emperor Kangxi expressed deep admiration for Zhou Peigong's loyalty and wisdom, and thanked him for his hard work over the years.
After the Kangxi Emperor left, Zhou Peigong's health deteriorated day by day. His life became more and more difficult, but he still insisted on handling some of the lighter official duties and doing his best to contribute to the country. He knows that his time is short, so he cherishes every day even more, hoping to make more contributions to the country in a limited time.
Eventually, after the death of Zhou Peigong, his fame and legacy spread throughout Shengjing and the entire imperial court. His loyalty, wisdom and sacrifice became a model for posterity to admire.
A real big hero
Why was Zhou Peigong snubbed like Kangxi, and finally had to donate the imperial picture he had worked so hard to make, in addition to not wanting to waste it, it was also related to his personality.
Because the imperial picture he dedicated became a symbol of his life's dedication. This work is not only the crystallization of his wisdom, but also the embodiment of his deep concern for the country and the nation. The imperial map depicts the country's mountains and rivers, geography, people's sentiments and economic layout in detail, and every stroke reveals Zhou Peigong's thoughtful and concerned about the future of the country.
Zhou Peigong's life is a life of silent dedication to the country and the nation. He never resented the suspicion of his colleagues, and he never complained about the emperor's arrangement. Even at the last moment of his life, he was still thinking about the country and the people, and this perseverance and sacrifice is a symbol of a true strongman and a sign of a great hero.
After the death of Zhou Peigong, his deeds and spirit were praised among the people. His name became an example for everyone who dedicated themselves to the country. In the long course of history, the image of Zhou Peigong has become clearer, and his story has inspired generations and become an immortal legend.
Kangxi Dynasty