Note: Each dynasty in this story exists in a different plane. Each dynasty is a self-contained arc, and each emperor is the protagonist.
Ren Zhu is a relationship advice streamer on an online platform, specializing in resolving everyday family squabbles. She has no idea when it happened, but her livestream has somehow connected to every dynasty under heaven.
The emperors of ancient China, unaware of the truth, think that when she gives relationship advice on her livestream, she's teaching them how to govern.
So when they return to their own planes, they all follow her advice...
Sketchette One:
An emperor connects to the livestream: "Hello, streamer. We have seven taverns here, and I want to swallow up the other six and unite the realm... I mean, unite all seven taverns.
But I happened to learn that in the future, a thug who runs a tea stall will try to take my family business. Should I nip the problem in the bud now?"
The emperors: "Oh! That's Qin Shi Huang, Ying Zheng! He's blown his cover!"
Emperor Wu of Han, Liu Che: "This is bad. Gaozu of Han in that plane, you have to hang in there!"
Emperor Gaozu of Han, Liu Bang: "Wait, who are you calling a thug?"
Sketchette Two:
After seeing the previous emperor hide his identity, King Zhou of Shang wisely decided to conceal his as well. He asked:
"Hello, streamer. I work diligently every day to protect the foundation laid by my ancestors and make sure my people have enough to eat. But even so, there are still people who want to take my place.
Even my own subordinates are thinking of betraying me. In a year's time, the person who wants to replace me will launch an attack. What should I do now?"
The relationship advice streamer Ren Zhu indignantly gave King Zhou some suggestions:
"If I were you, first I'd beat the person eyeing my position into submission, so he knows who's boss and understands that he shouldn't covet what isn't his.
Second, you should let your subordinates see you suffer a little. I can tell from your voice that you're the type to swallow your pain instead of letting it show. You should let them know how hard things are for you. When the pressure gets to be too much, talk things over with them. What's wrong with a man shedding a few tears?
Third, don't keep a mistress. Remember, a man who wrongs his wife won't have a coin to his name.
Fourth, everyone watching the livestream, remember: sincerity is the ultimate winning move."
King Zhou: "I see. I have learned a lot."
The emperors of every age: "King Zhou, crying? We've learned a lot too."
In another time and place, King Wu of Zhou, Ji Fa: "Tsk. If I could, I'd like to see that too."
Theme: The people are paramount, the state comes second, and the ruler comes last.
Very well written! I hope the author will continue to update~