I Rebel, but I'm a Good Person

Born into a wealthy family, Qi Pu never thought about rebelling at first.

His life was comfortable, with plenty to eat and drink, until he returned to the family estate to visit his elders and encountered natural and man-made calamities, catching a glimpse of the chaos to come.

Factional struggles at court were fierce, local powers commanded their own armies, the emperor was incompetent, treacherous factions held overwhelming power, and banditry was rampant.

In that case, he might as well rebel.

Qi Pu diligently carried out his plans for rebellion and gathered talented people around him. He intended to replace the dynasty and unite the realm, but everyone seemed to misunderstand him.

His tutor: "The young master is kindhearted by nature and should serve as a worthy minister, assisting a wise ruler."

His grandmother: "My grandson is good in every way, except that he is too timid in handling affairs. He must change."

His mother: "My son knows neither literature nor martial arts. He should live out his days carefree as a rich young master."

Yes, even though I am rebelling, raising a private army, and taking cities and territory, I am a good person.

Only his childhood sweetheart saw through it all, coldly calling him out: "Stop putting on an act."

The Old Xuan Book, Annals of Emperor Taizu: Emperor Taizu of Xuan was kindhearted and compassionate. Even when leading troops into battle, he cared for his soldiers, charging at the front in every engagement and facing the enemy's blades himself. Taizu quelled chaos through force and governed the realm with benevolence, treating those above him with utmost sincerity and those below him with utmost kindness. Thus began the glorious age of prosperity, with Taizu.

1. The female lead has her own career arc, and the two leads pursue their relationship seriously.

2. This is a wholly fictional setting, blending elements from various dynasties.

3. The early story focuses on local development, while the later story centers on vying for supremacy and conquering the realm.

Theme: The people are paramount; the ruler is secondary.