Hardly Simple to Understand *The Great Yan Dynasty*; What Xiyu Secretly Wants to Do / The Jiajing Emperor, Feared by All the State Guests!

"You all... all want to see 'The Great Yan Dynasty 1566'?"

Chen Qi hadn't expected that this matter would involve him. But then he thought about it, and although something seemed a little off, considering their situation, it was quite normal for them to be interested in his film, "The Great Yan Dynasty."

As Theresis said, the political systems of countries like Kazdel and Victoria now need reform and reconstruction after his disruptions. However, the political systems of each country are different, so there is almost no reference value, and everyone is feeling their way in the dark.

However, while political systems may not be relevant as a reference, many issues in the process of governance are common. For example, the civil servants and politicians in "Yes, Prime Minister" may not have these positions in every country, but as long as there is a complete political system, everyone can find corresponding roles in their own system.

Furthermore, when it comes to many partisan struggles, power struggles, and checks and balances... in reality, even if the systems are different, the tactics are still similar.

"Yes, Prime Minister" provided significant reference for Victoria and the Sarkaz, and even for rulers in other countries. Now that news of Chen Qi and his team filming "The Great Yan Dynasty" in the Great Yan has reached their ears, it's not surprising that they would be interested.

In particular, Chen Qi and his group made no attempt to conceal their whereabouts, and the Great Yan even extended an official invitation to Chen Qi to film the series. However, how they knew about the show is somewhat suspicious.

"That's right. We've come here because of his reputation. Just by hearing his name, we can tell that Director Chen Qi's attire this time is indeed different from his previous works."

Upon hearing this, Theresis immediately showed interest, and his subsequent words resolved the doubts in the Great Yan Emperor's mind:

"The Bloodborne Archon is right. Director Chen Qi, your rare praise of this work as a 'groundbreaking' masterpiece is definitely worth seeing."

"Ah, come to think of it, I do seem to have said that to the Bloodborne Archon."

In a daze, Chen Qi remembered that when they were in Leithania, the Bloodborne Archon and Theresis had temporarily come to Chen Qi's ship, and the Bloodborne Archon was present when Lin Qingyan came to deliver the imperial edict.

"Moreover, the fact that Director Chen Qi is currently filming a political drama is hardly a secret in the Great Yan." Madam Sicily added with a smile at this moment.

"That little girl named Eureka documented many of your scenes filming on set in the Great Yan. Even before its premiere, 'The Great Yan Great Yan Dynasty 1566' had already gained immense popularity, and the people of Great Yan were eagerly anticipating your portrayal of the Great Yan bureaucracy."

"Could it be that Director Chen Qi is too busy and has forgotten about these things?"

Ah... Come to think of it, Chen Qi had actually forgotten. Along the way, he had recruited far too many people into the crew. Their positions were assigned when they joined the crew, but Chen Qi rarely interfered with the details. He left it to everyone to do as they pleased because he trusted that everyone in the crew was sensible and wouldn't interfere with the important matters.

But coincidentally, when Eureka joined the production team, Chen Qi specifically asked her to help generate buzz for them. Now that Chen Qi hasn't explicitly forbidden Eureka from promoting the show, it doesn't seem unreasonable that news about "The Great Yan Dynasty" has spread.

"In Victoria, rumors were also rampant. Many Victoria citizens praised the composure of the Great Yan and the magnanimity of its emperor. They even took the initiative to invite director Chen Qi to film a political drama that was considered completely realistic, and to show it to the people of Great Yan."

At this point, in order to see feedback on "The Great Yan Dynasty 1566," even Duke of Windermere of Victoria learned to lie against his conscience, saying:

"I believe the Emperor of Great Yan, since he has allowed all the people of Great Yan to see this drama, and we have come for peace and wish to appreciate it, he should generously agree."

"... That's natural."

However, faced with this situation, the Emperor of Great Yan was at a loss for what to do. After all, what these people said was true; "Great Yan Dynasty 1566" was originally intended for the people of Great Yan to watch, and the Emperor of Great Yan had indeed been prepared from the beginning that no matter how explicit Chen Qi's films were, he would agree to the production of the series.

But now, the Emperor of Great Yan is somewhat regretful. He never expected that in the drama Chen Qi directed, there would be almost no good people throughout the entire Great Yan drama! He couldn't even produce a single positive character!

How could the Emperor of Great Yan possibly show this drama to his people? He himself almost broke down watching it; how could he let these foreigners watch it...?

However, faced with such an important diplomatic event, the Emperor of Great Yan could not refuse and had no choice but to agree for the time being. He instructed Ning Ciqiu to lead the Ministry of Ministry of Rites to finalize the arrangements for the state banquet. As for the Great Yan Great Yan Dynasty... the Emperor told them to watch the four episodes that were already finished, and the rest would be discussed after the state banquet.

"Director Chen Qi, please wait a moment, I have something to say to you."

However, after Theresis and her entourage had all left, the Emperor of Great Yan specifically called Chen Qi back. Outside the hall, Nian and Xi also unconsciously tensed up, silently listening to everything that was happening inside.

Chen Qi, however, remained completely calm, unaware of Xi He Nian's underhanded actions. He composedly replied, "Your Majesty, what would you like to ask me?"

"... Regarding the Great Yan Dynasty." Seeing Chen Qi's open and honest demeanor, the Great Yan Emperor immediately dispelled any lingering suspicions he had. He had never intended to harm Chen Qi —though there had been moments of anger—but after weighing the pros and cons, he still felt that "The Great Yan Dynasty" would be very helpful to the Great Yan.

The problem is that, currently, this kind of assistance can only be circulated within the imperial palace as an internal imperial technique. If it were released to the general public, it would likely provoke a strong reaction. Therefore, the Emperor of Great Yan also intends to make some demands.

"I must admit, I spoke too confidently and made my promise to the people of Great Yan too quickly. But a ruler's word is his bond. Since I have decided to produce this drama for the people of Great Yan, I will agree to its broadcast no matter what."

"But, Director Chen Qi, since this is for the people of Great Yan, I have a request: could you please include some positive portrayals of Great Yan officials in the drama? We mustn't let the people of Great Yan think that the court is full of hypocrites."

"--I think His Majesty doesn't need to worry about this issue." Chen Qi understood the Great Yan Emperor's intention upon hearing this, but he simply smiled slightly and calmly replied:

"I've said in my previous works that 'political satire is the second most boring type of work in the world.' Although 'The Great Yan Dynasty 1566' has received a lot of attention, I still think that not many people will actually watch it."

"This is a work that only those who appreciate its value will delve into deeply. As for the general public, the depth of this drama will require time to be fully explored. Therefore, Your Majesty need not worry too much about how much impact this drama will have on the people of Great Yan."

Even though Chen Qi had high hopes for "The Great Yan Dynasty 1566," he had to be honest: not many people could truly understand the show. Even in Chen Qi's original world, where education was so widespread, not many people were willing to sit down and watch the story. That's why the show was critically acclaimed but commercially unsuccessful.

Therefore, Chen Qi had no hope that most of the Yan's people on the Terra, whose education was only getting worse, would be able to understand this drama. The highlight of this drama lay in the future—if one day in the future the Great Yan inevitably declined, then this "Great Yan Dynasty" could resonate with more of the Great Yan people.

"As for Your Majesty's concerns about the role, Your Majesty is unaware that we are currently filming scenes for the second lead character in 'The Great Yan Dynasty.' I believe that what Your Majesty is waiting for is the appearance of this character."

"Oh? I truly do not know of this matter. What is this person's name?"

Upon hearing this, the Emperor of Great Yan's eyes lit up with anticipation. He had originally thought there were no good people in the entire drama, but when he heard that Chen Qi had arranged for a "good official" he wanted in the drama, his expectations immediately rose.

After all, judging from the current plot, he desperately needs a truly good official to give the Great Yan Dynasty in the drama more hope, so that the people will not lose faith in the officials of Great Yan, and so that foreigners will not think that their Great Yan lacks loyal ministers and filial sons.

"This character is called 'Hai Rui,' and I plan to have Chen Huijie play him. I think this is the kind of good official Your Majesty desires."

Of course, Chen Qi had another half-sentence that he didn't tell the Emperor of Great Yan or Chen Huijie, who had been eagerly anticipating playing Hai Rui. That was, Hai Rui was definitely a "good official," but the character was still full of sorrow.

However, it is undeniable that Hai Rui is a shining example of idealism in this drama, and one of the few characters who does not follow the crowd and adheres to his ideals throughout the entire series.

Another idealist, but more worldly and adept at officialdom Hai Rui, was Wang Yongji. Chen Qi gave this role to Huang, recommended by Kal'tsit.

The remaining one, Gao Hanwen, was equally ambitious, but through repeated conspiracies and schemes, his righteous heart was gradually eroded, and he became silent, though he never lost his original aspirations. Chen Qi entrusted him to Zuo Le.

These roles require passionate and ambitious young people to portray them so that they can bring out that spirited and spirited attitude. In this way, the righteousness they show when facing constant suppression and obstruction will be all the more precious.

"We are currently filming. If Your Majesty is interested, you might consider visiting the set."

"This..." The Emperor of Great Yan hesitated slightly. He had originally intended to go with high expectations, but after looking at the official documents in his hand and the pile of work, he barely managed to calm his impulse and said:

"I trust Director Chen Qi; he definitely knows how to film it. So just go for it! I need to attend to the state banquet arrangements now. Director Chen Qi, once you've finished filming, just openly and generously present your drama at the state banquet!"

"In that case, I'll go and get back to work."

Chen Qi breathed a sigh of relief. Seeing that the Emperor of Great Yan had finally reaffirmed his support, he could tell the crew members who were worried about his personal safety that they no longer needed to hover around him.

Their conversation was overheard by Nian and Xi outside. Nian used his power to communicate with Xi, saying with some surprise:

"This tactic actually worked! The emperor really relented?"

"... And he won't have time to deal with our affairs for a long time. He has to take care of the state guest arrangements first, and then he has to reform the internal affairs. I'm afraid he'll be extremely busy."

Xi wasn't surprised by the outcome. Of course, she wouldn't cause trouble for Chen Qi, nor would she let anyone notice anything amiss. After all, what she did would basically happen in the future anyway; she was just accelerating the process, so naturally, nothing would be discovered as amiss.

However, what Xi values more now is that the Emperor and the Imperial Palace of the Great Yan Dynasty are now focusing most of their energy on dealing with the issue of state guests, and Talulah, due to her recent series of "disastrous defeats," will definitely not cause any more trouble.

In other words, this period of time is Xi's best opportunity. She wants to take advantage of this time to make Chen Qi at least express his attitude, so that she and Chen Qi will have enough confidence to resist her sister!

If your older sister is willing to hit her, would she be willing to hit her younger brother? Even if she were, it's another matter whether your older sister could actually beat him; Chen Qi would definitely protect her more...

Xi silently made up her mind, her hands clenched into fists behind her back. Now, she had completely taken control of the rhythm of the entire scene!

However, in her excitement, Xi forgot to control her expression. Beside her, watching her usually reserved younger sister suddenly show interest, Nian subtly understood something, yet also seemed to have made a similar decision...

PS: Chapter 3 today, only 3 more chapters left to pay the bounty! (So tired, sob sob sob... I'm almost done paying off the bounty, but it seems like I'm taking it slower and slower. I'm exhausted, I don't want to move... I'm so weak...)

Volume 1: Chapter 294: The Emperor Jiajing, feared by all state guests!

Chen Qi received final permission, and Xi also saw her opportunity. However, everything was truly peaceful during this period. Chen Qi's filming was no longer hindered, and the scenes featuring Chen Huijie Hai Rui were being filmed at an astonishing pace.

Just as Chen Qi had predicted, Chen Huijie quickly immersed himself in the role of "Hai Rui." They shared similar integrity and ideals, but compared to Hai Rui, Chen Huijie was indeed somewhat lacking in adaptability. Being a policeman was best for him, but not enough to be an official.

"That's why Wenyue and I never let Little Chen get involved in officialdom... With Little Chen's personality, he would definitely be the most beloved by the people as a senior superintendent in the Lungmen Guard Department, but if he becomes an official, he might suffer a terrible fate."

As Wei Yenwu smoked, he watched Chen Huijie, who was now acting in front of the camera, his spirited niece, and the young people like Zuo Le and Huang. The old man 'Wei Yenwu face, which hadn't softened at all since the start of filming "The Great Yan Dynasty," finally showed a long-lost smile.

"It still needs young people. For us old fogies, it's extremely difficult to change the officialdom of the Great Yan Dynasty like they have done. We're willing but unable."

"When people get old, they have things to worry about, and they can't fight like they used to, so it doesn't matter if they lose... Kid, do you think they can change the Great Yan in the drama?"

Wei Yenwu shared similar feelings with the Emperor of Great Yan. Seeing the Great Yan, riddled with problems, in the drama, they felt extremely distressed. Now, seeing these young representatives, each displaying an upright character, they naturally felt full of hope.

To this, Chen Qi shook his head and smiled, "Uncle, what are you thinking? The Great Yan cannot be destroyed by a few people, much less saved by a few people. If the life and death of a country depends on just a few people, that is a sign of national demise."

"However, in this drama, you will see the greatest impact each of them can achieve. Trust me, you will admire them then."

"Then I'll wait and see."

As soon as Wei Yenwu finished speaking, not far away, Talulah, dressed in a long black dress, walked towards Chen Qi and the others under the light of lanterns held by a group of Great Yan attendants. Beside Talulah was a very conspicuous figure - Theresis.

"Finally found you! Honestly, why did I have to go to the state banquet in your place? I was so embarrassed! Everyone kept asking me what your appearance was, especially that new king of Ursus, he's been waiting and hoping to see you!"

"Ms. Talulah, it's understandable that the new Emperor of Ursus is anxious; he's clearly here for Director Chen Qi." Theresis spoke up promptly, always clad in armor wherever he went. Upon seeing Chen Qi, Theresis smiled and said:

"It's been a long time, Chen Qi. Wang Mei has missed you dearly; now I can finally give her an explanation."

As Theresis's eyes darted around, noticing Wei Yenwu beside Chen Qi, now dressed in a Daoist robe—the classic attire of the Emperor Jiajing —her smile vanished, her eyes turning wary and apprehensive. She greeted him coldly:

"This person, if I'm not mistaken, is the one who played the Emperor Jiajing... What should I call him?"

"--Are the common people confused? I am confused too, are you not confused?" Wei Yenwu looked at Theresis in front of him and seemed to sense the apprehension in Theresis's eyes. Then, he began to play the role of the Emperor Jiajing with great ease, and his riddle-like appearance made Theresis even more wary.

Now, Wei Yenwu was certain that the Sarkaz regent before him regarded him as a highly threatening opponent. With a contemptuous smile, he promptly said:

"Just call me 'Wei Yenwu' for now. This name, like 'Jiajing,' is just a designation. What matters is how you perceive me."

"There was a hint of apprehension in the look you gave me just now. Let me ask you this: what are you afraid of?"

It's strange, really. Wei Yenwu has never worn a dragon robe or attended court, yet he seems to increasingly feel like an emperor just by playing the role of Jiajing.

Now, facing Wei Yenwu, who was almost identical to the Emperor Jiajing in the TV series "The Great Yan Dynasty" that he had watched before, it would be a lie to say that Theresis was not wary.

Theresis and the other foreign representatives, who had been "urged" by Xi to come, had been watching the first four episodes of "The Great Yan Dynasty 1566" while waiting for the arrival of the new emperor of Ursus. However, to their surprise, despite bringing the best translation they could find from the Great Yan, they were still completely confused by the content of the first four episodes on their first viewing.

Among the things that they found difficult to understand, besides the various departments and institutions of the Great Yan that they were unfamiliar with, and the large number of Yan names, what gave them and the translators the biggest headache was Emperor Jiajing's frequent use of the phrase "quoting classical texts."

The Great Yan translators were in a rather difficult position, trying their best to translate the Great Yan language into something they could understand. However, Theresis was the first among the group to realize the terrifying nature of this "Emperor Jiajing".

After all, Theresis was an immortal being. Although he was young among the Sarkaz, he had mastered the language of the Great Yan. Therefore, after watching these four episodes repeatedly, one of his biggest insights was the Emperor Jiajing's skill in managing people.

That kind of ruler who controls all information, who keeps himself forever shrouded in mystery in front of his subjects, who don't understand his true nature but he understands every aspect of them, ruling the Great Yan with a unique kind of "fear," and treating his ministers like his own servants.

Compared to the current strength of the Great Yan, such a monarch makes Theresis even more wary— Kazdel is extremely close to the Great Yan, and if such a capricious and cunning person holds a high position in a powerful border country, Theresis will naturally be wary.

"It's not fear, but worry. Worry about the Great Yan in the drama, and also worry about the path to the revival of our Sarkaz clan."

"The Great Yan of today is not the Great Yan depicted in the drama, and the current emperor of Great Yan is not the Emperor Jiajing." Wei Yenwu answered Theresis's question calmly, saying:

"If your clan can truly change the world's perception and avoid any harm to the Great Yan, then the Great Yan will be like a mountain, and with your back against it, the mountain will not move."

"But if your ambitions one day threaten the Great Yan, then the Great Yan will be like water—a raging torrent. You should have seen it yourself; the waters of the Great Yan are far more terrifying than those in the drama, enough to submerge any mountain."

"Whether the Great Yan is a mountain or a river to you depends entirely on your attitude towards Great Yan. But let me make this clear first: our Emperor is far more capable in both civil and military affairs than Jiajing, and the Great Yan's national strength is immeasurably greater than it was in 1566."

"As for me... I can be Wei Yenwu at any time, or I can be Jiajing at any time, it all depends on the circumstances."

Wei Yenwu was well aware of Kazdel's plans to restore its kingdom around the Great Yan. However, he was clearly wary of the Sarkaz clan. But there were some things he couldn't let his younger brother say, so he, the Duke of Wei Yenwu, would say them, so that the Sarkaz clan, who were destined to become neighbors of the Great Yan, would keep their ambitions to themselves.

Theresis naturally understood this principle as well. It's said that one shouldn't lose face even if they lose the battle; he represented the honor of the Sarkaz clan, but he couldn't afford to provoke the Great Yan. After some thought, he changed the subject, saying:

"I remember there are also members of our Sarkaz race on the border of the Great Yan. They have now changed their name to 'Anasa.' Although the Great Yan has not fully accepted them, they are considered a non-threatening race."

"Anasa and Sarkaz both mean 'rootless' in Terra. Since the Anasa race can be considered a non-threatening existence by the Great Yan, then the Sarkaz race should also not be viewed with prejudice."

"--Not a bad answer." Upon hearing this, Wei Yenwu smiled. He had known for a long time that Theresis had been trying to win over Chen Qi, and Chen Qi had provided him with a lot of help. Now, after their contest, Wei Yenwu had to admit that Theresis was worthy of Chen Qi's high regard.

If we can't avoid Kazdel and Great Yan becoming neighbors in the future, it might be helpful to Kazdel's restoration... But if possible, we should control their nation's lifeline and ensure they don't pose a threat to Great Yan.

"So, Theresis, what brings you and Talulah to me this time?" Chen Qi, who had witnessed the tense exchange, asked Theresis now that the situation had calmed down. Theresis immediately replied:

"The state banquet is almost over, now it's your turn to appear, Director Chen Qi. We've all been eagerly awaiting the content of the fifth episode of 'The Great Yan Dynasty.'"

To be precise, it was Theresis and the new emperor of Ursus who were most concerned about the content of this fifth episode, because they were among the few monarchs with special circumstances who could savor it repeatedly and appreciate its nuances the fastest.

What followed was the scene they were most looking forward to. "Emperor Jiajing interrogating Hu Zongxian and Yan Song." They wanted to understand as soon as possible how many hidden schemes and intrigues were involved, so that they could use Emperor Jiajing's methods to balance the power of their own country in the future.

Chen Qi and his companions, along with their attendants and Theresis, soon arrived at the venue for the state banquet. Inside the magnificent palace, the Emperor of Great Yan sat in the highest seat, the position of the host, while the closest person to him was naturally the new Emperor of Ursus.

"Emperor of Great Yan, when will I be able to meet Director Chen Qi? I am eagerly awaiting his arrival."

"Your the Emperor Ursus need not worry. I have already sent Talulah to find her; she should arrive shortly."

While the Emperor of Great Yan was exchanging pleasantries, a moment later, the voice of the Imperial Guard rang out, saying:

"Duke Wei Yenwu, Marquis Liewen Chen Qi, and Lady Talulah homage."

Yes, Lady. Shortly after the state banquet began, when the Emperor of Great Yan introduced Talulah to everyone, he deliberately used the title "Lady" to create the effect that "Talulah is a Lady = Talulah has Great Yan blood = Chen Qi is a relative of the Great Yan royal family".

Ever since he learned that these state guests had come for Chen Qi, and even the Emperor of Ursus had come in person, specifically requesting to see Chen Qi, the Emperor of Great Yan knew that these people were even more anxious than he was, wishing that Chen Qi's citizenship would immediately become theirs. Therefore, he immediately made a decision: he could not delay any longer!

By bestowing upon Talulah the title of "Junjun," The Emperor of Great Yan essentially overturned the verdict on Talulah's parents' past actions. He would inevitably issue an edict of self-reproach in the future, publicly acknowledging his past transgressions—but he would save this transgression for the future to proclaim to the world.

Now, he has something more important to do, something to show all the state guests present!

Before long, Chen Qi, Wei Yenwu, and Talulah arrived at the palace together. The next moment, when everyone saw Wei Yenwu's extremely conspicuous attire, they all revealed expressions similar to Theresis's —warn and cautious.