Zi Shou had a very long dream. This time, everyone in it was well behaved; no one threw things from high places.
In his dream, the treasury overflowed, the country prospered, and the people lived in peace. Populations across the land kept growing, and even under heavy taxes, the common people had plenty to eat and wear, their faces blooming with smiles.
This was another fucking nightmare!
Zi Shou felt utterly powerless.
The Feudal Lords everywhere were incomparably loyal, offering tribute every year and bowing their heads in submission. That damned loyalty.
The streets of Chaoge bustled with people, and praises rang out everywhere: "Our country prospers and our people live in peace! The First Emperor truly surpasses the Three Sovereigns in achievement and combines the virtues of the Five Emperors!"
Fortunately, Zi Shou soon saw something that made him both sad and happy.
Grand Tutor Yang Jian retired to his hometown!
Imperial Preceptor Shen Gongbao's soul returned to Jade Void!
Zhang Guifang, minister of war, died of illness!
Fei Zhong, minister of personnel, retired to his hometown!
Zhao Gongming, minister of revenue, returned in spirit to the East Sea!
Bo Yi, minister of rites, died of illness!
Li Jing, minister of justice, retired to his hometown!
Wan Nian, minister of works, died of illness!
Su Quanzhong, Marquis of Changping, retired to his hometown.
Jiang Wenhuan, Champion Marquis, retired to his hometown.
What a wonderful dream!
With no one left at court to hold me back, wouldn't punching through the Heavenly Dao and ascending on the spot be easy?
Zi Shou eagerly waited to see just how terrifyingly powerful his dream self would become, but from his god's-eye view, he still had not spotted himself anywhere.
Suddenly, everything went dark before his eyes. The ministers who had died all fell