Film and Television: The Villain's Life Begins with Joy of Life

Zhou Cheng is very respectable.

The temple worship ceremony is a grand national event in the Qing Kingdom, with solemn rituals and extraordinary significance.

The banquet that Emperor Qing hosted for his officials was held in the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests outside the palace.

Following the eunuch's directions, Zhou Cheng sat down in one of the seats closest to the throne in the hall.

From this vantage point, one has a commanding view and can see all the civil and military officials below.

The air was filled with a rich, yet not overpowering, aroma of sandalwood, spices, and food.

Look around.

To his left and right were the eldest prince and the second prince, while the crown prince and the eldest princess sat at the head of the table.

The eldest prince had already undergone his coming-of-age ceremony, his expression calm and composed, as if he were used to such scenes.

The second prince was the same age as him. Since many of the concubines in the harem did not attend such occasions, and without his mother's company, he seemed a little awkward, his fingers unconsciously fidgeting with the hem of his clothes under the table.

The table was covered with candied fruit, fresh fruit, and various pastries, all brightly colored and tempting.

With nothing to do, Zhou Cheng rested his chin on his hand and looked around, while casually picking up a piece of candied fruit with the other.

The sweet taste exploded on his tongue. After just one bite, he threw the candied fruit back onto the plate and replaced it with a snack, and then with fresh fruit.

The Second Prince, who was sitting upright, would occasionally glance in his direction, his eyes filled with surprise.

At this moment, a clear and melodious female voice came from the head of the table, like pearls falling onto a plate:

"Chengcheng, you seem quite carefree. It's one thing to indulge in food in private, but at today's state banquet, aren't you afraid of behaving improperly before the Emperor?"

She is the eldest princess.

Zhou Cheng puffed out his cheeks and looked up. Li Yunrui sat upright behind the desk, a soft halo of light shining on her face, with a hint of unintentional mischief.

He spat out the pit, slowly swallowed the flesh, and then uttered two words:

"I'm not afraid."

Li Yunrui raised an eyebrow, somewhat surprised: "Why aren't you afraid?"

Zhou Cheng tilted his head and said matter-of-factly, "With Father Emperor not here, I have nothing to fear!"

Li Yunrui chuckled: "You're quite frank."

"Just telling the truth."

Zhou Cheng said, "My father named me 'Cheng' in the hope that I would be sincere, upright, and honest. Therefore, I only speak the truth and never lie."

"Oh?"

Li Yunrui's eyes flickered, as if he had become interested:

"Since you're not lying, then tell me, what do you think of your aunt?"

Zhou Cheng's gaze fell calmly on her face, and he carefully examined her for a moment.

It must be said that this princess was indeed stunningly beautiful, with skin as white as snow and eyes as black as lacquer. Every smile and frown was full of charm, no wonder she was known as the most beautiful woman in the Qing Kingdom.

"Auntie is so beautiful," he said sincerely. "Among all the people I've ever met, not even my mother can compare."

Li Yunrui covered her mouth with her sleeve, her eyes crinkling with laughter:

"You're such a young child, yet you know how to charm people."

Zhou Cheng remained noncommittal, picking up a bright red cherry and gesturing to her:

"Of all the cherries on this table, they are the sweetest. Would you like to try some, Aunt?"

Li Yunrui waved her hand lightly, "Auntie, you don't need to. If Cheng'er likes it, then use more."

After saying this, he gestured to the palace servants behind him to bring the fruit plate from his table to Zhou Cheng.

Zhou Cheng didn't stand on ceremony, simply turning to his left, right, and those at the head of the table to gesture: "Eldest brother, second brother, Your Highness the Crown Prince, would you like some cherries?"

The eldest prince shook his head and politely declined.

The second prince glanced over, then quickly lowered his eyes again.

The six-year-old crown prince, with the mind of a child, reached out to take it, but hesitated.

Zhou Cheng chuckled, "If you guys aren't going to eat, then I won't be polite!"

Having said that, he called out to the servants to bring over all the fruit platters from the three people's tables.

The eldest prince's eyelid twitched, the second prince's eyes widened, and the crown prince opened his mouth, looking hesitant and aggrieved.

Although he gave the order, how could the servants dare to move?

Li Yunrui burst out laughing: "Cheng'er, you're being too ridiculous! You dare to play tricks on your own brothers in front of everyone. In my opinion, you're the 'worst' of all of you brothers!"

Zhou Cheng, unashamed, grinned and said, "It's too stuffy here, just kidding!"

He waved his hand, dismissing the servants.

The servants breathed a sigh of relief and stepped aside, while his unusual behavior drew the attention of many people nearby.

Li Yunrui also sensed that her nephew was different from before. Just as she was about to start a conversation, a commotion suddenly arose on the side of the hall, followed by the sound of bells and chimes and the playing of Shao music.

"clang--!"

A palace attendant's voice pierced through the music: "His Majesty has arrived—"

Everyone's expression turned solemn, and they all stood up and bowed.

Emperor Qing and his empress entered slowly, both dressed in imposing black dragon robes.

Emperor Qing, with a friendly expression, settled himself and the Empress on their thrones before raising his hand and saying, "My ministers, please be seated!"

As everyone took their seats, the master of ceremonies announced in a loud voice: "The ceremony begins—!"

The palace maids, who had been preparing for a long time, fluttered in like colorful butterflies, bringing hot dishes and fresh wine.

The music resumed, dancers gracefully moved about, and the officials raised their cups in celebration, suddenly creating a lively atmosphere at the banquet.

Zhou Cheng focused only on the ever-changing dishes, his gaze occasionally sweeping over the throne.

Emperor Qing looked down with a smile, occasionally turning his head to whisper a few words to the Empress. His expression was gentle and his posture relaxed, as if this were just an ordinary family dinner.

After several rounds of drinks, most people had stopped drinking and eating, and the music in the hall subsided slightly. Emperor Qing then said:

"I have an eldest son, Chengru, who has come of age. He has lofty aspirations, diligently practices martial arts, cares deeply for the border regions, and always cherishes the desire for peace and security. Although I am reluctant to part with him, I cannot bear to let him down in his ambition to serve the country."

Zhou Cheng looked at the eldest prince beside him, only to see that the prince was already sitting upright.

"...Li Chengru is hereby appointed to lead the Western Army as military advisor and shall take up his post at an appointed time. He is hereby granted a set of Mingguang armor, a Longquan sword, and a Chuanyun spear."

The eldest prince left his seat, knelt on one knee, and accepted the imperial decree to express his gratitude.

The attendant presented him with heavy armor and gleaming weapons. He did not immediately return to his seat, but instead clasped his hands in a gesture of respect and said:

"Your Majesty's trust and favor are beyond measure. I wish to take this opportunity to offer a spear dance to Your Majesty and all your ministers, praying for the eternal stability of our nation and the prosperity of our country!"

Emperor Qing's face lit up with pleasure, and he raised his hand, saying, "Granted!"

The eldest prince took his spear and stood up. With a flick of his wrist, the spear hummed. Its initial stance was as imposing as a mountain and as still as a deep pool; its movement was as sudden as a thunderclap.

The spear in his hand transformed into streaks of silver dragons, the sound of it cutting through the air filling the hall. Every move was grand and sweeping, carrying the chilling killing intent of battlefield conquest. There was no embellishment, only the most direct display of power and skill.

Zhou Cheng had already stopped what he was doing and was watching intently.

The gust of wind rushing towards him, the sharp sound of the gun tip piercing the air, and the solid, burgeoning momentum made him personally feel the difference in this world, and he couldn't help but feel a longing from the bottom of his heart.

"Sigh~ In the end, it was the system that held us back!"

Thinking about the unresolved system tasks and the pre-arranged Wen Lu, Zhou Cheng felt utterly helpless.

"good--!"

When the dance ended, thunderous cheers erupted throughout the hall, lasting for a long time.

After bowing to Emperor Qing, the eldest prince returned to his seat, while his armor and weapons were displayed beside him, gleaming with a cold metallic light.

Just then, Zhou Cheng felt a gaze sweep over them from above.

Immediately afterwards, Emperor Qing's voice rang out again.

"Cen Dansheng, the Left Censor-in-Chief of the Censorate, is a man of integrity and upright character, a pillar of the nation. This year he requested to resign, and I find it truly difficult to let him go."

"As my second and third sons are growing up, it is the perfect time for them to study the classics and history. I wish to invite Minister Cen to remain in the capital to serve as the princes' tutor, both to provide talent for the nation and to allow him to enjoy his remaining years in peace."

The Prince's Tutor!

Zhou Cheng's heart jolted, and the lingering emotions from the gun dance instantly cooled down.

It really happened!

An elderly official with white hair and beard, dressed in simple court attire, stepped out from the ranks of civil officials:

"Your Majesty's great favor makes this old minister feel humbled. What I have done is merely my duty, how dare I accept such high praise? Your Majesty's permission for me to stay in the capital to recuperate is already a kindness as deep as the sea. If my frail body can still enlighten the prince, I will do my utmost."

He paused, then continued, "However, I am old and frail, and I fear I am unable to teach both princes at the same time. I humbly request Your Majesty to select another capable teacher to assume this important responsibility."

Emperor Qing's tone was calm, neither pleased nor angry:

"If you are not energetic enough, then choose one to teach. There are two princes, you may choose one yourself. If it is difficult to choose, then test one or two of them, and teach the one who is more in line with your temperament."

As soon as these words were spoken, almost all eyes in the hall turned to him.

The hushed whispers spread rapidly, and many officials exchanged glances with subtle expressions.

Despite repeated refusals, the old minister could not refuse and had no choice but to bow to the throne and to this side:

"Since it is His Majesty's decree, I dare to ask Your Highnesses a few questions."

The second prince immediately stood up, his posture respectful: "This student dares not presume, please ask me, sir."

Zhou Cheng wiped his hands with his sleeve and slowly stood up.

Ugh……

He sighed inwardly.

This is Emperor Qing! He loves to torment his sons!

A single, casual remark was enough to sow discord between the two brothers and put them in a very difficult position...

Whether others realized this or not, most people still watched with amusement, probably finding the prince's test far more interesting than the singing and dancing performance.

Cen Dansheng paced back and forth for a moment, his gaze sweeping over the two of them, before slowly asking his first question:

"Your Highnesses, as princes, what are your ambitions?"

The second prince, as if prepared, replied without hesitation:

"The student is determined to devote himself to study and research, and is willing to do his best for the civil administration of the court, share the burden of the emperor, and fulfill his responsibilities to the country."

His clear voice and upright posture caused many court officials to nod slightly.

It was Zhou Cheng's turn.

He hadn't expected this question, and was secretly delighted, thinking that this was a perfect opportunity to express his "ambition"!

Without thinking twice, he said:

"I used to have no great ambitions and only wanted to eat, drink and have fun. But after seeing my elder brother's heroic figure today, I suddenly realized that practicing martial arts to defend the border and protect the people is exactly what I want."

After answering, Cen Dansheng made no comment, but instead spoke up from his throne.

Emperor Qing said in a gentle voice, "Chengze is studious and quick-witted, and his filial piety is commendable. I am very pleased."

Zhou Cheng glanced quickly at Emperor Qing.

Emperor Qing's gaze also turned to him, his tone remaining calm:

"It is good that Chengcheng is willing to emulate his elder brother. However, studying the classics, understanding principles and cultivating oneself, so as to assist the emperor and govern the region in the future, is also excellent."

Upon hearing this, Zhou Cheng's heart sank.

Emperor Qing's words were tactful, but the meaning was crystal clear.

Low whispers filled the hall, and many eyes turned toward them, their meanings unclear.

Cen Dansheng stroked his beard and asked his second question at the opportune moment:

"During the banquet, this old minister observed that His Highness the Third Prince quite enjoyed fresh fruit, and a thought suddenly occurred to me. I ask: If His Majesty were to bestow upon me a rare and exotic fruit, and there was only one of its kind, and His Highness knew that his brother also loved this fruit, what would be done?"

The second prince remained calm and unhesitating: "If my third brother is pleased, I am willing to give it to him without hesitation. Brotherly love and respect are the proper way."

Cen Dansheng nodded, and many of the surrounding officials also nodded in agreement.

Zhou Cheng's mind raced, and after a moment's hesitation, he said, "It should be divided equally with my second brother."

Cen Dansheng, however, seemed unsatisfied and continued to press, "What if there is only one of those precious fruits, and it cannot be divided?"

Zhou Cheng lowered his head slightly, then quickly raised it again, and said, "Let's divide it equally! I'll eat the flesh, and Second Brother can eat the pit."

"Pfft..."

Uncontrollable laughter first rang out from a corner of the hall, and then, as if contagious, low laughter rose and fell in waves.

The Second Prince's face darkened for a moment, but he quickly regained his composure.

"You third son!" Emperor Qing raised his hand, pointed at him vaguely, shook his head and chuckled, his tone a mix of helplessness and reproach, "You really are... shameless!"

As the laughter subsided, Cen Dansheng's expression turned solemn as he asked his final question:

"If Your Highness were to encounter starving people on the verge of death on your journey in the future, what would you do?"

The second prince frowned slightly, as if deep in thought, and after a moment said seriously:

"The students must order their attendants to provide immediate medical assistance, feed the child with soup and water, and give him money and food to help him return home. They must also inform local officials to pay attention to the people's suffering."

Zhou Cheng's face showed just the right amount of confusion, his voice not loud, but loud enough for those in the front row to hear clearly:

"Famine-stricken people? If the people are starving, why don't they eat meat porridge?"

The hall fell silent suddenly, then—

"boom--!"

A burst of laughter erupted, and many people couldn't help but laugh, bending over with mirth.

The second prince's lips twitched as he tried to suppress a laugh, but his eyes revealed complete confidence and ease.

Even the eldest prince, Li Chengru, who had been sitting upright, couldn't help but raise his hand to cover his lips to hide his smile.

The eldest princess laughed heartily, even kindly reminding him, "Chengcheng, starving people are poor and destitute; where would they get meat porridge?"

Zhou Cheng rolled his eyes inwardly, and only after the laughter subsided did he seem to suddenly realize something:

"So there's no food! That's the worst thing in the world. I'm too soft-hearted to bear seeing such a sight. If I encounter starving people on the road, I must leave immediately and not dare to look any longer!"

Another wave of laughter swept through. Most of the court officials covered their faces and laughed, but some laughed unrestrainedly and even pointed at him.

Amidst the laughter, Zhou Cheng keenly noticed that Emperor Qing, who was on the throne, had also shown a smile, but when his gaze swept over the group of people pointing and gesturing wildly, the smile vanished without a trace.

"Tap, tap."

Emperor Qing counted his fingers and tapped them twice on the imperial desk, neither too hard nor too soft.

The laughter seemed to be abruptly cut off, stopping abruptly.

Emperor Qing's face remained calm and composed, his voice carrying the calmness and majesty of an emperor:

"Chengze and Chengcheng have both answered. Cen Qing, I suppose you have already made your decision."

Cen Dansheng straightened his robes, bowed deeply towards the throne and this side:

"His Highness is kind, wise, and thoughtful, possessing the qualities of a benevolent ruler. He will surely become a wise king and a pillar of the state in the future."

At this point, many people turned their attention to the Second Prince.

Under everyone's gaze, the Second Prince unconsciously straightened his back a little more, and a blush appeared on his cheeks.

However, the next second, Cen Dansheng changed the subject:

"However, His Highness the Third Prince is simple and straightforward, speaks without reservation, has a childlike heart and is naturally wise, which is exactly the kind of 'true' nature that this old minister has admired all his life."

"In educating the princes, moral character comes first, and temperament is fundamental. Therefore, I am willing to dedicate the rest of my years to instructing His Highness the Third Prince."

"??"

Zhou Cheng suddenly stared at Cen Dansheng.

What the hell!

This old man doesn't play by the rules!

He's already made such a self-deprecating joke, and they still chose him? This is definitely scripted! There's definitely something fishy going on!

Countless gazes, like searchlights, instantly shifted from the Second Prince and focused on him.

The second prince's face turned pale.

Emperor Qing seemed unsurprised by Cen Dansheng's choice, nodding and saying:

"Since you have made your decision, then I will..."

"Father!"

Zhou Cheng disregarded everything else and shouted loudly:

"Father! Your son has no interest in literary pursuits and only wishes to learn martial arts like my eldest brother! This old man Cen... is highly learned and is perfectly suited to teach a studious person like my second brother. I beg you, Father, to grant my request!"

Emperor Qing was taken aback that Zhou Cheng dared to interrupt him in the hall. His expression darkened instantly, and even his composure vanished. The imperial aura he exuded was no longer concealed, spreading out as if it were a tangible force: "Chengcheng!"

The two words, cold as iron, made Zhou Cheng's heart clench.

"It seems that Consort Li has spoiled you too much and neglected your upbringing, allowing you to become so ill-mannered! Step down! Sit down!"

Emperor Qing's voice was not loud, yet it sounded as if it contained the might of the heavens.

This matter concerns the system's mission and future path. At this moment, Zhou Cheng knows he has acted too hastily, but he has no other choice!

His status as a child, coupled with the occasion of this sacrificial ceremony, presented a perfect storm of favorable conditions, making it the only possible opportunity to change Emperor Qing's will.

He forced himself to continue his defense: "But Father, I really..."

"Bang!"

Emperor Qing slammed his hand on the imperial desk!

A muffled thud, not deafening, yet seemingly carrying immense force, caused not only the faces of the nearby imperial relatives to change drastically, but also many of the distant officials to tremble violently, almost collapsing to the ground.

"No buts!"

The emperor's voice was now devoid of any emotion, containing only a chilling indifference and absoluteness:

"Your eldest brother practices martial arts not because he wants to, but because the Qing Kingdom needs him to! As a prince, you are born with a mission. You can only do what the Qing Kingdom needs you to do... not what you want to do! Do I need to teach you this principle?!"

When their gazes met, Zhou Cheng was instantly frozen in place, as if struck by ice.

"Since Cen Qing has chosen you as his disciple, then starting tomorrow, you must study diligently, cultivate your mind and understand principles! If you dare to be unruly and lazy again, or harbor other thoughts..."

Emperor Qing's gaze was as sharp as a knife.

"I will instruct Consort Li to fulfill her duties as a mother! I believe she will discipline you well."

Zhou Cheng shuddered, his last shred of hope completely crushed.

He forgot that his own identity as a child was not without flaws.

Consort Li was his greatest weakness.

Emperor Qing stopped looking at him and turned his gaze to the Second Prince, his tone softening slightly.

"Since Cen Qing has chosen Cheng Cheng..."

"Chengze, I will now appoint another teacher for you. Zhang Xu, the Vice Minister of Rites, is a learned and upright man, and is suitable to be your teacher."

"Your subject... thanks Your Majesty."

The second prince's face lit up with joy, and he looked at Zhou Cheng with a hint of schadenfreude.

Zhou Cheng stood there, frozen, his mind almost blank.

For the first time, he learned what the tyranny of imperial power meant, and for the first time, he experienced the suffocating and powerless feeling of having one's life, death, fortune, and misfortune entirely in the hands of others...

"Is... this the only way?"

Zhou Cheng sat back down at his desk, looking dejected.

He looked up unwillingly, only to meet Emperor Qing's indifferent gaze once again!

He felt a chill run down his spine and instinctively wanted to lower his head and back down.

Just then, a series of cold yet familiar mechanical voices suddenly rang in his ears!

[Ding! Congratulations, host, you have successfully instilled strong negative emotions in the mission target!]

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[Negative emotions from Li Yunqian +110!]

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