Fans play a treasure-hunting game before the test screening of the novel-turned-animation. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Although Beyond the Ocean was initially planned to run for two seasons, Yang aims to make more.

"If we want our own influential animation brand in China, we will have to make it a long-running franchise like Disney," she says.

Yang also says many derivative products will be developed after the animation is released as a way to promote traditional culture.

"Maybe our first highlight will be hanfu," she reveals.

As Ma is often hailed by the media as "one of the most lucrative authors in China", will he prolong cooperation with internet giants like iQiyi to make more tailored scripts for online viewers?

His answer is tactful: "Only if I really like what I write and if it really resonates with people.

"You never try to second-guess the commercial angle when you begin to write something. I will keep making my stories attractive. As for any follow-up plans, I'll leave that to Yang."