Unwavering integrity and moral fortitude, symbolizing a steadfast character that remains resolute even in adversity, much like the pine and bamboo which stay green through winter.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
In 579 AD, Emperor Xuan of Northern Zhou, Yuwen Yun, died of illness, and the young Emperor Jing, Yuwen Chan, ascended the throne.
Zheng Ze, Minister of the Interior, and Liu Fang, Censor-in-Chief, forged an imperial edict to summon Yang Jian into the palace to take full control of military and political power.
Liu Zhuang, a minister of the Later Liang dynasty, entered the pass at the behest of Emperor Ming (Xiao Kui). Yang Jian summoned him, praised Emperor Ming of Liang for his 'integrity of pine and bamboo' (松筠之节), thereby easing bilateral relations and jointly opposing Yuchi Jiong.