After transmigrating into the body of a tyrant, Xie Yu had barely begun to untangle the complicated relationships between the former court and the imperial harem when he was hit by a game System called [Dreamland].
Xie Yu wasn't interested in being emperor, but as a homebody, how could he resist the temptation of a city-building management game?
He tried starting the game and was amazed to discover that after he cleared fields and planted basic wheat, a minister reported that this year's harvest had increased by a thousand jin; after he caught a thief, the dropped item disappeared, while a secret report from the Court of Judicial Review said they'd found a corrupt official's account book; and as soon as he clicked to recruit talent, a reclusive sage from the mountains announced that he wished to serve him...
Xie Yu: Interesting. Opening a new map means expanding my territory. As I work myself to the bone, my country is becoming more prosperous, just like in a game?
Unfortunately, this simulation game has no way to spend money for upgrades! The System says that to gain extra experience, he has to raise the trust levels of his ministers and consorts and stay securely on the throne without arousing suspicion.
What can Xie Yu do? Obsessed with building up the country, he puts his formidable shamelessness to work, striving to become a good emperor who treats the worthy with respect and the beautiful with kindness... Let the tyrant stuff become a thing of the past!
Meanwhile, Empress Tantai Haiqing, who entered the palace disguised as a woman to assassinate the damn emperor, starts to feel that something is off. The damn emperor... doesn't seem so detestable anymore? He governs diligently, loves his people like his own children, executes corrupt officials, and dismisses parasitic functionaries. He doesn't seem like a tyrant, but rather has the makings of a wise ruler.
And the damn emperor even pretends to be drunk and tells her on a clear, moonlit night that he has feelings for her?
Tantai Haiqing gives a cold laugh. "You claim you love only me, so why are all those noble consorts and beauties so devoted to you? Last time I was in the imperial garden, I even heard you ask the general whether he trusted you with all his heart."
Xie Yu sobers up in fright. "...My dear subject, hear me out! I didn't choose to raise your trust level!"
Reader's notes:
1. The game's inspirations include Township, The Illustrated Guide to Jiangnan, Gardenscapes, The Sims, and others.
2. A formidable martial artist and outwardly proper, cross-dressing empress top VS an optimistic emperor bottom who loves eating, drinking, and having fun.
3. Blurb written on September 5, 2020.
4. The cover character is Xie Yu. Thanks to the artist @Ming Ri Zhi Guang.
Theme: Make full use of our initiative and actively build a beautiful country.
