Song Tingwu had a secret: he could see words above everyone's head.
Above corrupt officials, it said: "vermin."
Like that thing in Minecraft?
Above the general, it said: "loyal soul."
And the man on the dragon throne had the blood-red words "tyrant" above his head, nearly blinding Song with their glare.
But Song was only an illegitimate son despised by his family. He had little influence, and no one would believe him even if he spoke up.
So Song Tingwu chose to keep quiet, clocking in on time every day, leaving on time, and silently watching the whole court put on a show.
Until the new emperor ascended the throne and began cleaning house.
The corrupt officials had their estates confiscated with pinpoint accuracy overnight. The general, who should have died on the battlefield, returned victorious. Even Song was inexplicably promoted.
-
One day, Song Tingwu dozed in his chair.
"Where is my beloved subject?"
"I am here, Your Majesty."
"Is there anything you desire, my beloved subject?"
Song Tingwu rubbed his eyes and looked at the row of gleaming golden words above His Majesty's head: "greatest emperor of all time." Then he answered earnestly:
"Could Your Majesty... raise my salary a little?"
"I want to get a more comfortable recliner."
The new emperor: ...That's it?
A lie-flat, lazy fish x a hyper-competitive genius
Theme: World peace
