Wen Yan had always been a laid-back person, honest and kindhearted. Though she was an orphan from a poor family, she managed to make a living by working eight jobs at once.
Just when Wen Yan thought her life would continue along quietly like this, a bolt of lightning struck, and she transmigrated.
She transmigrated to the war-torn late Han dynasty. Forget making a living: an orphan without household registration was nothing but a free slave and walking provisions.
What could she do? Wen Yan gritted her teeth and decided to start over. She wandered, hunted, and worked under the table, saving money bit by bit. Somehow, she managed to settle into a stable life.
Then one day, three letters appeared before her.
One was from her former scavenging buddy:
Thank you for encouraging me. I've decided to found a religious sect based on the Taiping Jing and appoint you its second-in-command, a great general! With your help, I'm sure we'll achieve great things!
One was from the young nobleman she had saved while hunting:
I still can't forget you. I've made a decision that goes against my ancestors' wishes and asked Father Emperor to let me marry you. The six betrothal gifts should already be on their way to the county office. I'll be waiting for you in Luoyang.
One was from the nobleman's son she had worked under the table for:
You promised to protect me for the rest of my life. Are you going to break your word? I've already come of age and been recommended for office on the basis of filial piety and integrity. I'll be heading to the capital soon. Use this money to escort me. Keep the rest as a reward, and don't be ungrateful.
Wen Yan was overjoyed to receive the letters. She sold the expensive stationery, bought a rundown farmstead, and prepared to begin a peaceful country life.
Who would have thought that six months later, the three men themselves would show up in a grand procession, carrying a general's seal, a lavish bridal trousseau, and wealth beyond measure, to pound on the farmstead's gate?
All of Yingchuan was waiting to see which path to glory Wen Yan would choose.
But Wen Yan only frowned and said as she opened the gate, "Don't block me from reclaiming this land. Do any of you know irrigation, farming, or postpartum care for hens?"
It wasn't until all the court officials tearfully begged Wen Yan to ascend the throne that she finally realized: I only wanted a peaceful life. How did I end up as empress?
At the enthronement ceremony, the master of ceremonies nervously asked about matters of the harem. Wen Yan looked even more bewildered. "Can the harem help me build canals?"
The half-mad power ministers instantly erupted and surged forward in unison. "Your Majesty! I can!!"
Theme: Keep working hard and make sure to eat
