Chapter 1177: Distortion, Too Distorted! (Part 2) [Requesting Monthly Tickets]
Regarding this artistic embellishment, Shen Tang, Gu Chi, and Qi Shan each had their own thoughts. Qi Shan felt that Gu Chi portrayed him as too weak, as if he were the kind of person who was constantly wounded in battle and needed to be picked up by others? He was a notorious villain in the Northwest!
What does it mean when someone suddenly vomits blood and has bloodshot eyes?
Even Qi Shan herself felt goosebumps when she saw it.
[Heh, you're disgusted? Here's the pen, write it yourself. I, Gu, want to see how much you can write!] Although Qi Shan's section was placed at the very beginning, Gu Chi left it for last, afraid that he would be so disgusted by Qi Shan's writing that he would lose all his inspiration. [Let's see how you brag!]
Qi Shan naturally didn't have the time for that.
In short, I'm not satisfied!
Gu Chi was too lazy to indulge him and went directly to reason with his lord.
[We've grasped three core elements—beauty, strength, and tragedy!] Shen Tang, a master of balancing acts, chose the middle path, finding a balance between Gu Chi's needs and Qi Shan's opinions. [Outstanding beauty, formidable strength, and a tragic past! This satisfies the audience's yearning for beautiful things, and—deep sympathy for the protagonist's misfortune. The perfect formula for attracting fans!]
Gu Chi: [...]
Shen Tang gestured, trying to make Gu Chi understand the feeling she wanted: [Beautiful but fragile, strong but tragically fated, miserable but tenacious and resilient, like a little white flower battered by wind and rain, seemingly weak and vulnerable yet still standing tall, evoking pity, sympathy, and love. A cold, broken, unlucky, and mired nobleman! We don't need to write about how this flower is poisonous, just write about how it is bullied.]
[Focus only on the result, not the cause, understand?]
Gu Chi nodded: [Understood.]
He added, "[My lord desires a multicolored black.]"
Shen Tang: [...]
He added, "Maybe it's pitch black or white."
Gu Chi was extremely unwilling, but he could only grit his teeth and bear it, revising and refining the work according to the client's wishes, putting in his best effort throughout. There was no other way; Gu Chi was responsible for the content, while Qi Yuanliang was in charge of the portrait. What if he offended him, and Qi deliberately held back, failing to properly paint General Bai? With their combined efforts, the result was gratifying and commendable.
Therefore, Gu Chi focused on writing the result.
The text makes no mention of the deaths of Qi Shan's seven predecessors, nor of how they were all strong and healthy, lively and energetic before meeting Qi Shan, and then lined up to meet the King of Hell afterward. The answer is simple: they brought it upon themselves; good and evil will ultimately be rewarded!
However, some people have offered other perspectives.
"Isn't this Qi Zhongshu somewhat unlucky for his master?"
Shen Tang glared at him, but everyone's attention was focused on the biographies of famous ministers and scholars, and they didn't notice her emotional change. Xiahou Yu secretly wiped away cold sweat, trying to smooth things over with a normal tone: "The theory of fate and metaphysics is unreliable. Those people, which one of them didn't commit countless evil deeds and deserve to die? It's just that this person happened to be there and was unfairly burdened with such a bad reputation. If he really brought misfortune to his lord, why didn't he bring misfortune after he submitted to the new lord? For more than thirteen years, the ruler and his minister have been on good terms, and nothing has happened."
The man felt ashamed after hearing this.
"I admit I spoke without thinking."
Others noticed the details above.
"Qi Yuanliang's new master is a woman?"
"Not only that, he's also a fugitive."
The number of women capable of cultivation in Qu Kingdom has been increasing year by year. They have all heard about it, and some have even witnessed it firsthand. They have fully accepted it, but they don't know where it originated. Some people calculated back in time: "If all of this is true, this Lady Shen is much earlier than the earliest female cultivator in Qu Kingdom."
Some people remarked, "This Qi Zhongshu has great courage and determination."
From their initial encounter, it's clear that Qi Shan didn't discriminate against or belittle Shen Jun because of his gender. On the contrary, after hearing Shen Jun's heartfelt explanation of his feelings, Qi Shan realized they shared the same ideals and a spark of mutual appreciation ignited between them. In their own situation, even knowing Shen Jun's potential, they might have hesitated because of his gender. Qi Yuanliang didn't hesitate; he only saw the precious, innocent heart in Shen Jun. A beautiful story of ruler and subject—who wouldn't envy it?
Yes, Gu Chi emphasized that Qi Shan followed Shen Tang because of the latter's concern for the country and its people, and his pioneering spirit!
He praised two people in one sentence.
Qi Shan never rejected Shen Tang because she was a woman or a fugitive. For over ten years, she remained steadfastly by her side, from the Battle of Xiaocheng, through the transfer to Heyin County, to her forced relocation to Longwu County, and then from Longwu County to lead troops against the foreign tribe of Shiwu. Before she could even catch her breath after a great victory, she joined the Dragon-Slaying Bureau, working alongside various warlords to overthrow the tyranny. The Dragon-Slaying Bureau's victory marked the beginning of a chaotic war and was also the founding war of the Kang Kingdom. Throughout all these trials and tribulations, Qi Shan remained steadfastly by her side.
They do not covet power or wealth.
Even when Shen Tang was penniless, he still helped her out financially and worked tirelessly for love, gritting his teeth and persevering, all to realize their shared dream. No matter how you look at it, he was simply a person who believed that love conquers all! Such noble character deserves our utmost respect.
At first, everyone felt that this part was somewhat distorted.
People always want something in return for fame and fortune, right?
In the end, they only cared about ideals and morality.
They don't really advocate it, but they truly admire it.
"No wonder, no wonder he was let down seven times..." It's impossible for someone with such a personality not to have a bumpy road. Too many people stumble and fall, either giving up their foolish and naive original intentions after being beaten down by reality, or refusing to go down with the filth and ending up in a miserable state. But Qi Yuanliang did not give up after being hit hard seven times. "Fortunately, the result was good. The road turned around and the light came out."
A colleague remarked, "A wise ruler is a rare find."
As the saying goes, "A fine horse is common, but a discerning eye is rare."
Everyone sighed at Qi Shan's ordeal and rejoiced at his eventual success. His current glory was entirely justified by the hardships and setbacks he had endured. The main text of the character's story ended, followed by a page of oddly formatted dialogue. Upon closer inspection, it was filled with other people's evaluations and opinions of Qi Shan, as well as their initial impressions of each other.
Chu Yao (courtesy name Wu Hui): He valued righteousness over personal safety and possessed a chivalrous and courageous spirit.
Gu Chi (courtesy name Wangchao): Him? Who in the world doesn't know you?
Qin Li (courtesy name Gongsu): Amazing at first sight, and a close friendship upon second meeting.
Jiang Sheng (courtesy name Xiandeng): It was our first meeting back then? I felt he had a very kind face and said a lot of heartfelt things.
Xun Ding (courtesy name Yong'an): Qi Zhongshu is the most understanding and confidant I have ever met in my life. I am fortunate to have known him since I was a child.
There were about twenty people.
He would praise Jiang Sheng for his good relationships, good looks, good temperament, and strong abilities, showering him with heartfelt words. He was chivalrous, charitable, and had even helped Jiang Sheng achieve the path of a scholar. Although he failed at the time, his kindness was commendable.
Some of his colleagues even wanted to marry their daughters to him.
Unfortunately, the young man had the world in his heart.
When the world is in turmoil, how can a small family find a foothold?
Therefore, he remains single to this day.
His maternal cousin, unable to bear seeing his plight, resolutely gave his daughter to him for adoption. He treated his adopted daughter well; it is said that she was a spitting image of him when he was young. This child was also kind-hearted, studying medicine and adopting over a hundred abandoned infants.
This truly shows that good deeds are rewarded, and Qi Zhongshu's suffering has finally come to an end.
The last few paragraphs are a conversation between the author and Qi Shan.
The conversation was brief. In summary, Qi Shan was very humble, feeling unworthy of his colleagues' praise. He said the persecution and psychological trauma inflicted by the seven lords of the past had been completely healed by the lord's trust, and he would work even harder to repay the lord and serve Kangguo. His hobbies were politics and raising cats, the latter being his own daughter whom he had formally betrothed: [Her name is Su Shang.]
The last page footer features a cat's head.
Xiahou Yu heard his colleague's sigh and felt a hint of envy.
"Qi Jun is a true gentleman of our time. Having experienced countless trials, he can still view life with equanimity, truly embodying the principle of 'not being elated by external gains, nor saddened by personal losses; when in high office, he worries about the people; when in retirement, he worries about the ruler.' Such a magnanimous state of mind is worthy of our emulation."
Such a wonderful man who also loves cats...
Who wouldn't like it?
This sentiment quickly resonated with many.
However, some people expressed doubts: "The moon wanes when it is full, and water overflows when it is full. Qi Jun is indeed good, but I always feel that something is strange."
"What's strange about it?"
He said, "It's just...it seems too good."
The officialdom isn't some other place; how could all colleagues unanimously praise and affirm one person? That person must have incredibly good interpersonal relationships!
"That's true, after all, it's just one person's opinion, and it may not be true."
They weren't blindly believe everything others said, but their initial impression of Qi Shan was certainly above average. Along with admiration and longing, there was a touch of jealousy; what subject wouldn't envy and be jealous of such a lord? However, they all tacitly refrained from mentioning it. They weren't very familiar with their new lord yet, and praising someone else in front of her would undoubtedly be an insult to her. So far, they hadn't found any fundamental fault in Shen Tang.
The second in line is Ning Yan, Ning Tunan.
Judging from Ning Yan's age, they assumed she was capable of cultivation at a young age, but had to hide it to protect herself due to her circumstances, until Shen Tang suddenly appeared and she joined Shen Tang's ranks. However, after reading the content, they realized this was not the case at all. She studied diligently in her youth, married her husband after completing her studies, and the couple shared the same ideals, supporting each other for many years, and had a daughter.
Someone calculated their age using their fingers.
"This isn't right, is it?"
"No matter how you look at it, acquiring a literary heart is something that happens after you turn twenty. How can someone this age still be able to condense a literary heart?"
The older one gets, the more severely one's spiritual talents are worn away.
It's basically impossible for someone in their early twenties.
Upon seeing the following content, everyone gasped in shock.
Some people even used their peripheral vision to observe Xiahou Yu.
"I cannot match that spirit."
Xiahou Yu was completely convinced by this.
He suffered the most severe punishment in the palace, and to regain his strength, he had to sacrifice his life in exchange for the nation's fate and the reunion of Wenxin. Ning Yan wasn't driven to a dead end, but to ensure her talent wasn't wasted, she resolutely made a ruthless decision. Such courage is truly awe-inspiring.
Ning Yan's experience was not as eventful as Qi Shan's.
but--
Reading her content alongside Yan An's is simply divine.
The couple's harmonious singing and dancing made them a perfect match; who wouldn't say they were made in heaven?
They are not only husband and wife, but also the people who understand each other best.
Unfortunately, he did not live long enough.
Yan An only met Shen Tang once, but he immediately recognized her as the emperor capable of guarding the nation's borders! Ning Yan weighed the pros and cons, abandoning her husband's planned escape route, and resolutely went to join Shen Tang to fulfill their unfinished mission, witnessing firsthand every step the "Empress" took! She wanted to assist her in pacifying this chaotic world—to guard the nation's borders, even unto death! Moreover, this couple shared the same scholarly ideals. After reading this, one is left only with admiration and sighs.
Gong Shuwu, whose original name was Gong Wen.
Through his experiences, everyone learned the reasons behind Shen Jun's exile, as if fate had somehow brought them all together. He was originally a normal person, but he became like this because of his willingness to sacrifice his own family for the greater good. Although his strength wasn't top-notch, he was remarkably reliable.
His colleagues unanimously praised Gong Shuwu, and the interview also mentioned that Gong Shuwu was one of the "Generals of Spring".
Gong Shuwu also said that his personal hobbies were washing horses and farming.
This hobby is a bit eccentric.
Bai Shaoxuan's experiences are also somewhat legendary.
From a petty thief to a great general, life's twists and turns are truly miraculous. After a failed attempt to kill someone, she was swept downstream and rescued by Shen Tang, who happened to be passing by. Shen Tang's personality and style suited her perfectly, and Bai Su has followed Shen Youli ever since. The text describes Bai Su as taciturn, warm-hearted, and a skilled military leader; she was the one who built Shen Tang's incredibly capable female battalion. She was a model for all female soldiers in the army.
Her ambition is to use her two sharp swords to eliminate all injustices in the world. Her personal hobbies are cultivation, reading novels, and forging.
Not only is his martial arts superb, but his forging skills are also unparalleled.
Among the interviews with his colleagues, one person named Shen Zhi stood out.
While the others were more restrained in their praise, this person wanted to lavish Bai Su with praise, making her seem like the epitome of perfection. Given the precedent set by Ning Yan and Yan An, everyone unanimously believed that Shen Zhi was likely Bai Su's lover. Even if they weren't, there was still a one-sided affection.
Shen Tang: "..."
How could Gu Chi not be heartbroken after hearing these words?
Then everyone saw Zhao Feng's message.
I initially assumed Zhao Feng was also one of Shen Tang's close subordinates—judging from the previous ones, they all met Shen Tang when they were still relatively unknown, so Zhao Feng should be no exception, otherwise how could he be on the list? However, it turns out Zhao Feng wasn't. Not only wasn't he, but he was also a general under the rival Wu Xian! He only officially joined Kang State after the founding war!
What merit or ability does this person possess?
No objections from the other elders of Kangguo?
Only by continuing to read can one learn about the connection between Zhao Feng and Shen Tang.
At the same time, they also knew why Gong Shuwu had a hobby of farming, and how he came to be known as the "General of Spring." Zhao Feng helped Shen Youli to repay a debt of gratitude, but was moved by her personal charm and worked tirelessly, humbling himself to do farm work, from plowing and clearing land to building kang beds and repairing roads—doing all the dirty and tiring jobs. He was a master of warfare and a whiz at farm work; he was honest, kind, and loyal. It's a mystery why he abandoned Wu Xian for Shen Tang.
After watching—
Everyone sighed, "It's too late to surrender."
If it were them, they would have broken ties with their former master long ago.
Zhao Feng has interesting hobbies: wife, daughter, son, horse raising, and farming. His dream is to one day retire from the military and enjoy his grandchildren. He sincerely invites ambitious young men to marry into the Zhao family. His daughter is a woman of great talent and has a kind and honest personality just like him.
A colleague muttered, "It's a pity it's a bit far away."
Like father, like daughter. With such a loyal and righteous father, how could Zhao Feng's precious daughter be anything less than perfect? A son-in-law who marries into the family is a good match.
Shen Tang: "..."
|ω`)
Finally, finally, finally it was my turn to stand guard.
Waaaaah, it's such a shame my shift is on Friday afternoon, and by the time I clock in and out, I won't have time to take my driving test (Part 4). The earliest I can get my license is next Monday.
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