Some explanations

After completing the story set in the Great Tang, many readers speculated whether my next book would revolve around the Han or the Qin dynasties. In truth, even before preparing for the Tang narrative, I had intended to shift direction and embark on an alternate-history route. However, at that time, financial constraints compelled me to pursue the Tang project instead, simply to make ends meet.

Halfway through writing the Tang novel, the urge to attempt an alternate-history work grew stronger than ever. From then on, I began to ponder various possibilities. The Tang novel undoubtedly counts as a failure; I can't help but feel a lingering regret—I botched the Tang backdrop, and the sense of loss is difficult to express, as if I had squandered a priceless treasure.

So, as I settled on an alternate-history theme for my next book, I also prepared a new framework with a vaguely Tang-inspired background. In a way, it was a form of redemption.

The third year of Da Qian—this is a fictional era name. The Emperor Xuande—another imagined ruler, though his shadow bears faint traces of familiarity. As for Emperor Xiaojing, he is directly based on Li Hong, the eldest son of Empress Wu, chosen as a background character. Li Hong was also an important supporting male role in my Tang novel, sharing a deep bond with Master Jia.

—Li Zhi: Crown Prince Hong was born with innate virtue and exceptional character. He was earnest and respectful, renowned for his conduct across three reigns; dutiful and filial, his reputation spread throughout the realm. Holding the jade scepter, he bore illness with fortitude, treasured as a rare jewel, and cherished in my heart, hoping for his recovery and the chance to pass on the crown. When his health seemed to improve, he was poised to inherit the throne, but Hong's benevolent nature and pure filial spirit made him accept my command without complaint, which only deepened my sorrow and worsened his illness. The fate of millions hung in the balance, while the foundation of martial virtue was yet to be established; the five blessings never arrived, and he was suddenly carried away to join the honored ancestors. In ancient times, Duke Wen of Zhou nurtured his beloved son, extending his life to nine decades; I, lacking such compassion, endured an eternal parting. The weight of his character brings tears to my eyes as I recall him, and it is fitting to honor him with a noble title. Posthumous names reflect one's deeds; honorific titles mark one's legacy. Compassionate and filial affection earns the name 'Filial,' and dying without abandoning his sovereign earns the name 'Respectful,' thus he is posthumously named Emperor Xiaojing.

The above passage is an excerpt.

Alternate history must diverge from the old path. Although this work adopts a vaguely Tang-inspired setting, "Above Chang'an" incorporates additional elements—such as cultivation, metaphysics... Yet, "Above Chang'an" is neither a fantasy nor an immortal saga, but rather an online novel set against a grand historical backdrop.

I write with great enjoyment, but since this is my first foray into a new genre, I often have to pause and reflect at the keyboard, so the pace is slow. Nevertheless, I believe my speed will increase.

Whatever the outcome, this is an experiment, and at the very least, I am fond of it. I trust you all will enjoy it as well—shamelessly confident.

Some notes on "Above Chang'an": Currently being drafted, please wait a moment. Once the content is updated, refresh the page to access the latest chapters!