In the era of the great voyages, when sailing was still the main mode of transportation, the direction of the wind was sometimes the most important factor.
Those who sailed with the wind thrived, while those who sailed against the wind perished. But no one could sail against or with the wind all the time.
Even the most skilled helmsman could not summon favorable winds. They would "adapt to the timing," always living longer than novices.
In adverse winds, they would lower their sails, move forward cautiously, or find shelter on a small island, and that was the way to survive.
In favorable winds, they would set sail and cover a thousand miles in a day, seizing every opportunity.
So when would the favorable winds come...
"When the adverse winds end, the natural moment of favorable winds..."
Today, Lu Ping'an has met the end of the adverse wind at a time he cannot even be sure of.
