The crisis facing Leithania, the Witch King's remnants' plan? / The film is decided: The Witch King Is Back, the perfect fit for Leithania's current situation
"Wei Yenwu is hereby granted the title of 'Duke of Zhenguo,' and Madam Wen Yue is to be granted the title of 'Lady of Zhenguo,' with full authority over all affairs of Lungmen and in coordinating matters of the Ministry of War. Chen Huijie hereby granted the title of Lady of the County and concurrently the title of Assistant General of the State. May you all serve the Great Yan loyally, guard the Great Yan Nation, and uphold the Great Yan Nation."
"Thank you, Your Majesty!"
Good heavens, he's really become "Duke Wei" now. Chen Qi was also slightly surprised by the Emperor of Great Yan's bestowal of such a title. Although Wei Yenwu's status and abilities were indeed no different from those of a Duke of Zhenguo, and everyone called him "Duke Wei," the effect of receiving the Emperor's recognition and bestowal was completely different.
The Emperor of Great Yan did this to curry favor with Chen Qi by using the status of Wei Yenwu and others whom Chen Qi cared about. The Yan value family above all else, and there is a saying that when one person attains enlightenment, even their chickens and dogs ascend to heaven. Just like the current situation, Chen Qi gained the emperor's favor, and along with Wei Yenwu and everyone else, they were all granted titles.
Lin Yuxia was appointed as a Supervising Secretary of the Ministry of Rites in Lungmen (a seventh-rank official), coordinating the work of General Chen Huijie.
"--Yes!" Lin Yuxia was also slightly startled, not expecting that she was involved. Only after the Rat King kept prompting her did she realize what was going on and immediately agreed.
The Rat King was quite pleased and gratified. He had never held out any hope of clearing his name, only wishing that Lin Yuxia could leave the gang. Unexpectedly, his daughter had only acted in one movie, yet the Emperor of Great Yan had given her a position of power despite its low rank. Now she was truly cleared of all evil!
After speaking about Wei Yenwu and his group, Lin Qingyan turned his gaze to Chen Qi and Talulah. Seeing that their expressions were normal, he hesitated for a moment before speaking:
"Director Chen Qi, Miss Talulah, His Majesty has stated that he is willing to acknowledge Miss Talulah's bloodline and exonerate her mother. If Talulah is willing to stay, she will surely become a princess."
"--Exonerating your mother is something your Great Yan Emperor should do." However, this time Chen Qi remained silent; only Talulah coldly stated:
"I don't need the title of princess; it can't change the tragedy of the past. I only wish to travel the world with Chen Qi and everyone else, making the world our home. As for the rest, I'll leave it to the Emperor of Great Yan to judge."
"Sigh..." Lin Qingyan sighed upon hearing this, but wasn't surprised by the result, and replied immediately:
"In that case, His Majesty has decreed that a gift of gratitude has been prepared to thank Director Chen Qi for his outstanding contributions to our Great Yan, and I have been specially sent to deliver it."
As she spoke, under Chen Qi's gaze, Lin Qingyan took out a package wrapped in gold silk. After slowly unwrapping it, she revealed one of the documents, which resembled the official document given to Tang Xuanzang by the emperor before his journey to the West, as Chen Qi remembered it.
On this document, the four large characters "As if I were personally present" were clearly written in words as vivid as fresh blood.
"This is a document personally written by His Majesty with the blood of True Lung. Wherever Director Chen Qi may go in the future, whether on the Great Yan Nation or not, carrying this blood of True Lung will be as if His Majesty were present. Anyone who offends this gentleman is offending the Great Yan Nation, and will be punished no matter how far away they are!"
"Within the Great Yan territory, you may freely travel with this document, and all Mobile City will be at your command when necessary. Outside the Great Yan territory, carrying this document will represent the might of Great Yan, deterring any villains from causing trouble."
After speaking, Lin Qingyan handed the official document to Chen Qi. Before Chen Qi could speak, Lin Qingyan continued:
"Furthermore, Director Chen Qi, His Majesty has specially conferred upon you the title of Marquis. Although, according to the laws of my Great Yan Dynasty, you can only be granted the title of Honorary Marquis, His Majesty has still specially cast an official seal for you."
"His Majesty has bestowed upon you the title of Marquis 'Liewen,' and congratulations on your Marquis Liewen."
Wow! He's been granted a marquisate already?!
As soon as Lin Qingyan finished speaking, Nian, who was still listening from the side, was not surprised that Wei Yenwu had obtained the position of Duke of Zhenguo. Instead, he was shocked that Chen Qi had been granted a marquisate so easily.
Because Nian knew very well that Chen Qi was actually their younger brother, and now a member of "Sui" had been granted a marquisate! Although the Emperor of Great Yan had no idea about this, it was of extraordinary significance to "Sui".
Meanwhile, the system's voice quickly sounded, summarizing Chen Qi's Chen Qi from his trip to Yan.
[Congratulations, host! You have obtained the rare item "Great Yan Travel Writ" and the honorary title "Marquis Liewen" (Gold)!]
[Great Yan Travel Writ: A decree written with the blood of True Lung. Its issuance is as if the Emperor himself were present!]
[Effect: Great Yan reputation value conversion permanently increased to 1.5 times; attacks with 'Demon', 'Monster', or 'Feranmut' attributes have their effect on the host reduced by 60%; Great Yan attribute characters' affinity +80%; countries weaker than Great Yan power have their national fear level +30%]
["Marquis Liewen" (Gold): A marquisate bestowed by the Emperor of Great Yan. This act will soon be announced to the world. This will be a title that will not be overlooked throughout Terra. In Great Yan, marquises prefixed with "Lie" are still of extraordinary significance, even honorary marquises.]
[Effect: Great Yan influence +50%, Great Yan attribute personnel are highly likely to obey orders, host's reputation value required to redeem system items reduced by 10%.]
The reputation points required for system redemption have been reduced by 10%?! Chen Qi quickly grasped the most crucial piece of information in this message, and all of this was enough to make him feel that this trip to the Great Yan was truly worthwhile.
"Director Chen Qi, I have conveyed His Majesty's decree. Now, there is one more small matter. I wonder if Director Chen Qi would be willing to hear it?"
"Oh? What is it?"
At this moment, Lin Qingyan nodded and said to Chen Qi, "An ambassador from Leithania has come before His Majesty, specifically requesting to see you. I brought him here on this special occasion."
"The ambassador of Leithania?" Chen Qi raised an eyebrow, his interest piqued—it was like a perfect opportunity; he had been looking for a legitimate reason to go to Leithania!
Chapter 243: The Crisis Facing Leithania, the Plans of the Witch King's Remnants?
"Lord Chen Qi, thank you very much for accepting the Queen's commission. I am Earl Hohenlohe, they call me 'Earl Hyacinth,' but if Chen Qi find that troublesome, you can simply call me 'Hyacinth.'"
"I came to visit the Emperor of Great Yan this time only to obtain permission to see you, but I did not expect you to agree so readily, which makes many of my prepared speeches useless."
The people sent by the Twin Empresses of Leithania this time are quite interesting. Earl Hyacinth Oripathy, yet he still holds a very important position as ambassador. This may be related to his cooperative relationship with Rhodes Island, which the Twin Empresses believe makes it easier for him to curry favor with Chen Qi.
Now, he and Chen Qi's group have arrived on the giant landship. Saria is in charge of taking everyone to the capital of Leithania to prepare for an audience with the Twin Empresses.
Before Chen Qi left Lungmen, Lin Qingyan specifically stopped him and whispered something to Chen Qi:
"Marquis Liewen, there is something His Majesty asked me to tell you quietly... because it concerns the Great Yan Nation, but it is really not appropriate to disclose it publicly."
"His Majesty has decided to restore Nian and Xi's freedom, freeing them from the surveillance of the Imperial Calendar Bureau Marquis Liewen for supervision. His Majesty believes that with Marquis Liewen's magnanimity and judgment, he will certainly not allow the two women to cause trouble again."
"Oh? His Majesty the Emperor is so generous?" Chen Qi was also a little surprised when he heard the news. He originally planned to use the "Buddha's Palm" as a bargaining chip to get the Emperor of Great Yan to exchange for the freedom of Nian, Xi, and the other "Sui" who had not yet made a move.
Second Brother will definitely not be pardoned. He does indeed have a plan to overthrow the Great Yan. Therefore, Chen Qi does not expect the Great Yan Emperor to let all the "Sui" go. He only hopes to help as many "Sui" as possible who he can help and who he knows will definitely not rebel.
For example, Chongyue, who has been guarding Jade Gate for many years, and Ling, who lives in seclusion in Shangshu, are of very high seniority among the "Sui" (years), but they really have no intention of rebelling. As for Nian and Xi, they are even more afraid to sleep at the mere mention of returning to the body of "Sui", let alone rebelling.
Unexpectedly, before he could even speak, the Emperor of Great Yan brought up the matter himself. This made Chen Qi immediately abandon his initial plan and instead think of using the "Buddha's Palm" to ask the Emperor of Great Yan for something else.
"Well then, I also have a great gift I wish to present to His Majesty the Emperor. Minister Lin, you may ask Duke Wei for the gift, and please convey my request to him as well."
"Oh? What is it?" Lin Qingyan blinked, and then Chen Qi smiled slightly and said:
"In the future, I will definitely have the opportunity to film in the Great Yan. I have an idea now, and I want to film a movie that is unprecedented and will never be repeated. At that time, I will need the permission and support of the Emperor of Great Yan."
"This play will surely cause a sensation in the Great Yan. Without His Majesty's permission and understanding, I would never dare to even consider such a thing. Therefore, after presenting my grand gift, I hope His Majesty will grant it and not blame us."
"... To be honest, all of Marquis Liewen's works are unprecedented and unparalleled." Lin Qingyan fell silent for a moment upon hearing this. For some reason, she felt a chill run down her spine when she heard the audacious Chen Qi evaluate her idea in this way.
He even had to give prior notice... When he made "Yes, Prime Minister" and caused Victoria's downfall, did he consult with the eight dukes? Is there anything in this world he wouldn't dare to film, write, or say?
Even Chen Qi said this would cause a "sensation in the Great Yan." Lin Qingyan really couldn't imagine what Chen Qi was planning to film, to the point that he had to give prior notice.
"Please allow me to decline this for now, but if His Majesty the Emperor accepts this generous gift, please grant me this request."
After saying all this, Chen Qi boarded the ship and headed towards Leithania with Earl Hyacinth. As for what kind of expression Lin Qingyan would show when she saw the "Buddha's Palm" manual being given to her by Chen Qi had no idea.
Now, Chen Qi and his companions were discussing the Twin Empresses's request with Earl Hyacinth, and couldn't help but ask:
"Why are the Twin Empresses so eager to invite us? Does Leithania have something important to discuss?"
"It's not so much a matter of urgency... but rather, if things continue as they are, the future of Leithania is unpredictable."
Earl Hyacinth also gave a bitter smile, looking at Chen Qi, who had indirectly caused everything to turn out this way, and said politely:
"Her Majesty's secret service, the 'Empress's Voice,' keeps sending messages that the remnants of the Witch King in several Mobile City of Leithania are plotting a coup to restore the Witch King's tyranny, using the pretext of Leithania's failed expedition to Victoria, which resulted in territorial concessions, reparations, and national humiliation!"
"The Witch King?!" XN
However, as soon as Hyacinth uttered these words, before Chen Qi could even speak, Talulah, Patriot, Vina, and other important members of the crew were all startled and instinctively cried out.
For a moment, even the two Feranmut, Nian and Xi, were speechless upon hearing the name "Witch King," their expressions immediately turning extremely serious. Xi, in particular, frowned deeply and said:
"This matter... is indeed quite troublesome."
Eureka, who had recently joined the crew and was now on the ship, couldn't help but ask, "The Witch King... is he the tyrant of Leithania? But... isn't he dead?"
"Indeed, even if the remnants of the Witch King are plotting a coup, how can they restore Witch King rule? The Witch King has been dead for many years." The Patriot, who had heard of the Witch King's formidable reputation, was also showing signs of nervousness for the first time because of a single name, and slowly said:
"The army of Leithania is weak and feeble. The only reason it has been able to stand here is because of its highly talented sorcerer corps and its exceptionally powerful ruler. The Witch King is dead. If the Twin Empresses are truly overthrown, could there be another figure among the Witch King's remnants who can rival him?"
"... Although I want to refute something, since it is the renowned Captain Patriot, I will refrain from arguing about the weakness of the Leithania army." Earl Hyacinth was somewhat embarrassed, but he managed to control his emotions and said:
"This matter shouldn't be revealed, but to be honest, the remnants of the Witch King have indeed been researching ways to resurrect Witch King for years, and their secret experiments have actually yielded results."
"An experimental subject known as the 'Voice of the Mundane' not only threatens the lives of many civilians when it resonates, but it is also rumored that under certain circumstances, the Voice of the Mundane will resonate, transforming the subject into an avatar of the Witch King."
"Transformed into an avatar of the Witch King?!" Upon hearing this news, everyone except Chen Qi was shocked, while Earl Hyacinth chuckled helplessly:
"At least that's what we know... Currently, the two researchers carrying the 'Voice of the Mundane' have been taken to the tower by the Empress's Voice and are under strict guard. All their instruments have been confiscated, and we are still searching for a way to disable their 'Voice of the Mundane.'"
"Even so, the remnants of the Witch King can continue their experiments, and their activities are spreading. Now, many commoners who have lost faith in Leithania are joining the Witch King's remnants' ranks... Many Mobile City have erupted in rebellion against the Queen's rule."
"This situation escalated beyond our control, and at that time, Earl Urtica (Ebenholz), whom we had imprisoned, made this suggestion to Lord Chen Qi."
"We all hope that Lord Chen Qi can use your power to help Leithania overcome this crisis... as long as it can restore the people of Leithania's confidence in Leithania and reduce the occurrence of riots."
"After this is accomplished, Leithania will surely reward you handsomely! Please, Lord Chen Qi, do not refuse!"
As she spoke, Hyacinth, representing the Twin Empresses, knelt on one knee before Chen Qi, bowing her head in pleading. Before Chen Qi could even speak, Talulah tugged at his sleeve and said:
"Chen Qi, we can't ignore this. If the Witch King is resurrected... not only Leithania, but the entire Terra will be in grave danger!"
"Back then, the Witch King single-handedly formed an army, Gaul was destroyed by his magic..." Vina nodded at this moment. As Crown Princess Victoria, she knew all too well that if the Witch King hadn't reversed the tide of battle, there probably wouldn't have been any Battle of the Four Emperors. Victoria and Leithania would have been powerless against Gaul and would have been defeated one after another.
If the Witch King were merely the strongest sorcerer in a country, and the Twin Empresses primarily focused on governance, then the threat wouldn't be significant... But the problem lies in the fact that the Witch King is not simply the ruler of a nation!
"Legend has it that the Witch King was initially a brilliant politician, but then, for some unknown reason, he suddenly went mad, beginning an incredibly brutal reign domestically and launching constant wars of aggression abroad, transforming himself into a war madman."
As Vina spoke, everyone gradually gained a deeper understanding of the Witch King. However, Vina didn't notice that Chen Qi felt a strange sense of déjà vu when he heard these words... as if he had heard similar words somewhere before.
"Explain in more detail." At this moment, Chen Qi couldn't hold back any longer and asked Vina, "Vina, do you know anything about the Witch King? What are the main aspects of his tyrannical rule?"
"--Forced conscription of soldiers, interference in the internal affairs of other countries, invasion of other countries' territories, threats and intimidation of other countries' leaders, elimination of dissidents, and massacre of innocent foreign civilians..."
Vina recounted everything that had happened under the Witch King's tyranny, oblivious to Chen Qi's increasingly strange expression. Finally, after taking a deep breath, Vina said:
"He is a shadow that haunts Leithania... no, it haunts the entire Terra... Teacher, we absolutely cannot allow the Witch King to be resurrected! He will bring calamity to this land!"
"... I know."
However, after hearing this, Chen Qi also decided to accept the Twin Empresses's invitation. Putting everything else aside, the two carriers of "Voice of the Mundane," Ebenholz and Kreide, were enough to make Chen Qi come all this way—the production team is currently in dire need of someone specifically in charge of music!
To date, all the film scores Chen Qi has composed have been obtained from the system himself. Each film requires at least five or six pieces of music, and given that Chen Qi's films are all classics, each of these scores commands a high price!
If Ebenholz and Kreide were to compose music, Chen Qi could save a considerable amount of reputation points. Then, if Chen Qi just hummed it, they might be able to compose a song based on Chen Qi humming. They might even be able to improve some of the background music!
Therefore, Chen Qi will absolutely not allow Kreide to become the Witch King again. Kreide is an easy child to fool, and once Kreide decides to join the crew, Ebenholz will almost certainly follow suit!
But... what kind of movie should they make? After hearing Vina's description of the Witch King, Chen Qi quickly inputted the name of a very similar Europe demon from his memory into the system...
Soon, after scanning through a series of Tai He films, Chen Qi focused his attention on one that was relatively objective and well-suited to Leithania's current situation.
"Perhaps... prevention is better than cure. Just like when I was filming 'Yes, Prime Minister' in Victoria, only by exposing the problems and enabling the government to make improvements can the public's confidence be restored."
"Then it all depends on whether the Twin Empresses has the courage."
Chen Qi murmured to himself as he chose to fulfill the script within the system.
[Reputation points deducted; script for the comedy "Look Who's Back" fulfilled.]
Chapter 244: The Movie Decision – "The Witch King Is Back" – The Best Fit for Leithania's Current Situation
After several days of driving, Chen Qi and his group successfully arrived in the capital of Leithania from Lungmen. Upon their arrival, they discovered a small land-based aircraft carrier that looked very familiar to them, docked not far from the Mobile City.
As Earl Hyacinth led Chen Qi his group into the tower of Leithania, they not only met the legendary Twin Empresses, but also two old acquaintances:
"Dr. Kal'tsit, Amiya? What are you doing here?"
"I invited everyone from Rhodes Island here. The situation in Leithania is critical right now, with a large number of Infected and civilians being injured every day. The arrival of Rhodes Island can provide us with much-needed medical support."
Earl Hyacinth also stepped forward to explain, which was of course something he had arranged specifically. He had originally planned that if Chen Qi didn't want to get involved, he would have Kal'tsit and the others try to persuade Chen Qi, since Chen Qi seemed to have a good relationship with everyone on Rhodes Island.
However, it's clearly unnecessary now; Rhodes Island's arrival is only for providing medical support. Kal'tsit and Amiya, upon seeing Chen Qi again after a long separation, displayed different expressions.
"Long time no see, Director Chen Qi. You seem unchanged, still full of enthusiasm." Kal'tsit looked at the now-unseen Chen Qi and couldn't help but sigh, thankful she hadn't offended Chen Qi back then.
As Chen Qi's status rose step by step, he gained more and more support, and his identity became increasingly lofty. Even after showcasing his formidable martial arts skills in the movie "Kung Fu Hustle," Kal'tsit became increasingly grateful that Chen Qi's attitude towards Rhodes Island was friendly... Rhodes Island couldn't afford to offend this powerful figure now.
Amiya, however, didn't have so many hidden agendas. She had already guessed that Chen Qi would come. The current chaotic situation in Leithania was perfect for Chen Qi to show off his skills, so she sweetly called out:
"Director Chen Qi! It's so nice to see you. I was worried that you might become unapproachable after being granted a noble title."
"Of course not. I've been granted a title and a noble rank; I certainly wouldn't look down on people like the Bloodborne Archon, would I?" Chen Qi seemed to be in a good mood upon seeing Amiya, then suddenly remembered something and said to Amiya:
"Perhaps I'll need everyone's help from Rhodes Island for this shoot."
"Really? Then we'll definitely do our best!"
Amiya, who had previously worked with Chen Qi on "Braveheart," was also looking forward to this collaboration. At this moment, one of the Twin Empresses, visible only as a black-haired woman through a thin veil, spoke softly:
"Director Chen Qi, seeing is believing. I believe Earl Hohenlohe has already explained the reason for inviting you here today."
"We have invited you and Dr. Kal'tsit to come together to confront the threat of the Witch King's remnants. Their attempt to restore the Witch King's cruel rule must be stopped. Violent suppression is the last resort. Until then, we sincerely hope that you can lend us a hand."
"Rhodes Island will certainly provide its full assistance." Kal'tsit was the first to express her support. Before the Twin Empresses, Kal'tsit did not grovel, but replied with an attitude of equality:
"However, this time, the one who should be singing the main theme is Director Chen Qi, and I believe the two of you must think so too."
"--Director Chen Qi possesses a skill that even the artists of Leithania cannot match." At this moment, the other of the Twin Empresses, whose hair was faintly visible as white, also spoke up:
"So, Director Chen Qi, do you have any ideas? It's rumored that you can come up with scripts at an astonishing speed. Do you have any ideas for this one as well?"