[Study of Chenxiang Bieyuan]
Chu Wanran stood by the window. A plain-colored brocade robe made his figure appear refined and elegant. His fingertips absentmindedly rubbed the entwined lotus carvings on the window lattice. Outside the eaves, the wind moved, branches in the courtyard swayed lightly, light and shadow shifting across his brows, yet it could not dispel the layer of sorrow that refused to dissolve—like misty late-spring rain, lingering and entangling.
“Sigh…”
A soft sigh fell into the wind, carrying a trace of lingering attachment.
“It’s been many days since I last saw A Xuan. I wonder if he is well at Fulong Camp? Is the training too hard?”
Thinking of Shen Qingci’s rigid, unyielding demeanor, he felt secretly annoyed. He paced back and forth in the study, the hem of his brocade robe brushing across the blue stone floor, making faint rustling sounds.
“That little Shen brat—what a waste of me raising him all these years. He only knows reconnaissance, not the slightest understanding of his master’s intentions! He just watches as others approach Li Xuan without doing anything. What use is he?”
He pressed his fingers to his brow, his eyes growing more anxious.
“Zhao Chengyuan protects A Xuan like a priceless treasure, with layers of hidden guards sealing him off. Forcing my way in is impossible. What excuse can I possibly use to stand by his side openly?”
This obsession was the core of all his future schemes, and also the clearest foundation of his identity as the male lead.
While he was deep in thought, a low, respectful knock came from outside the door, followed by the steady announcement of Steward Wei:
“Master, Imperial Tutor Bai Yanhua requests an audience. This old servant has already brought him to the front hall.”
Chu Wanran’s brows immediately furrowed, full of confusion.
“Imperial Tutor Bai?”
Although he was wealthy and influential, he had always adhered to the principle of “not touching court politics” and had no dealings with this Imperial Tutor.
“What is his purpose in coming here?”
Though he thought this inwardly, he still quickly straightened his robe, suppressed the sorrow on his face, and assumed the distant, indifferent demeanor of a merchant before walking slowly toward the front hall.
Even with his heart occupied by Li Xuan, he had not lost the composure and boundaries of a businessman.
In the front hall, Bai Yanhua was already seated in the main position. His moon-white brocade robe made his aura calm and deep like an abyss. His gaze was steady and unfathomable, as if he could see through people’s hearts, fully exposing Chu Wanran’s small thoughts.
Chu Wanran cupped his hands in greeting.
“Your Excellency’s visit brings honor to my humble home. I failed to welcome you properly—please forgive me.”
Bai Yanhua did not exchange pleasantries and went straight to the point.
“Chu Dongjia, I have come today to request your assistance in helping the Crown Prince investigate the merchant consortium matter.”
A trace of surprise flashed quickly in Chu Wanran’s eyes before he concealed it, putting on a perfectly appropriate puzzled smile.
“Your Excellency must be joking. I am merely a merchant, without authority or troops, powerless and without influence. How could I possibly help His Highness the Crown Prince?”
Bai Yanhua’s eyes deepened slightly as he spoke slowly, each word firm and decisive.
“Your tea houses and brothels are spread across Feng’an, Fuyang, Muyun, and Lingqu, as well as other countries. People flow through them in great numbers, and your information network is dense as a spider web. My disciple Xin Rumou has long been purchasing intelligence from you at high prices. You need not deny this.”
Chu Wanran’s fingers paused slightly, his heart surging like a storm—this matter was extremely secret. Apart from him and Xin Rumou, no third person should have known. Yet Bai Yanhua had uncovered it completely. Truly worthy of being the Imperial Tutor.
Bai Yanhua ignored his shock and continued.
“Soon, the Crown Prince will head north to Fenghe Warehouse to investigate the conspiracy between Tianji Pavilion’s Lingxi and the Lingxi merchant group.”
“I hope you can use your establishments as a base, secretly protect the Crown Prince’s safety, and transmit intelligence in time to help him uncover the truth.”
Chu Wanran lowered his eyes, rapidly calculating in his mind.
The Lingxi merchant group had secretly colluded with the manager of the Picking Flowers Pavilion in Fuyang City, selling Bone-Drunk Powder, strong aphrodisiacs, and intoxicating spring wine. They used despicable methods to steal customers, ruin his reputation, and suppress his business, leaving his establishments in Fuyang repeatedly on the brink of collapse. He had never forgotten this, only waiting for the right moment to strike back.
More importantly, if he could use the Crown Prince’s power to eliminate the Lingxi merchant group, he would not only take revenge but also connect himself to the imperial court—paving the way to approach Li Xuan. This was a perfect two-birds-one-stone opportunity.
After a moment of silence, the sorrow in Chu Wanran’s eyes faded completely, replaced by the sharp decisiveness of a merchant.
He looked at Bai Yanhua and smiled faintly.
“Your Excellency need not say more. I understand.”
Bai Yanhua clearly did not expect him to agree so readily and paused slightly.
“You agree?”
“I agree.”
Chu Wanran spoke lightly but with absolute certainty.
“During the Crown Prince’s northern journey, all my Fenghe and Fuyang establishments will fully cooperate, secretly ensuring his safety and transmitting intelligence in time.”
His promise landed heavily, reflecting both a merchant’s credibility and hidden intentions for Li Xuan.
Bai Yanhua was somewhat surprised; he had expected more persuasion.
Chu Wanran then changed the topic, a soft yet persistent longing returning to his eyes—his most moving trait as the male lead.
“As for compensation…”
Bai Yanhua waved his hand.
“Money is not a problem. If you want an official position, I can arrange it.”
Upon hearing this, Chu Wanran’s eyes lit up instantly like stars, his tone unable to hide his urgency, though he still pretended humility.
“Money is truly not an issue for me. I am rather vulgar and have no grand ambitions, but I have had a dream since childhood—to enter Zhenyue Division and obtain an official position. Preferably one appointed by the court that even Commander Zhao of Fulong Camp cannot override. I wonder if Your Excellency can fulfill this?”
“I have long admired Commander Zhao and wish to work with him.”
In his heart, he was screaming wildly:
“A Xuan! I will soon be able to openly stay by your side and protect you!”
This so-called “admiration” was merely an excuse to approach Li Xuan. Only he knew that this obsession had long seeped into his bones.
Bai Yanhua frowned slightly and pondered.
“This… I will return to the capital and help devise another plan. Wait for my news.”
Chu Wanran suppressed his excitement and bowed calmly.
“Then I thank Your Excellency!”
But his fingertips trembled slightly with excitement, his heart already filled with triumph.
He knew he was one step closer to Li Xuan.
[Western Grass Field of the Training Grounds]
On the western grass field of the Fulong Camp training grounds, a spacious outdoor tent had been set up.
This was a lecture site specially prepared for Yan Jiutie.
Under the tent, dozens of weapons inlaid with various colored crystals were neatly arranged, shimmering with radiant light, drawing the soldiers’ full attention.
Yan Jiutie held a dark red crystal in his hand, standing on the platform with a solemn expression, his voice booming like a bell.
“Today’s core lesson is the ‘resonance principle between crystals and weapons’!”
“These newly developed weapons all have runes engraved on them. The Shura blades are activated by killing aura, and the Pure Heart armor is infused with Pure Heart power. When worn, they can both defend against enemies and slow the growth of chaotic energy. The crystals are the amplifiers and regulators of these two forces!”
He embedded the crystal into a Shura blade’s groove, instantly producing a faint red glow.
“Crystals are divided into three types—dark red for killing, increasing attack power; light blue for spirit, enhancing defense; and black for balance, compatible with both killing aura and pure spirit energy. But remember, stronger is not always better. They must match one’s cultivation, or at best the weapon will break, at worst the spiritual energy will backfire and harm the user!”
After the explanation, Yan Jiutie demonstrated at the weapon rack.
He picked up a Shura blade and a dark red crystal.
“First step: clean the groove. Use either killing aura or pure heart energy to evenly cover the inner walls. Not a speck of dust can remain, or the crystal and weapon will not fuse properly, causing issues in battle.”
He lightly swept his fingers, dispersing impurities.
“Second step: insertion must be ‘light push, slow rotation.’ Do not force it, or you will damage the crystal’s internal energy channels.”
The crystal was smoothly embedded.
“Third step: resonance activation. The warrior must channel killing aura through the hilt; pure spirit warriors must wrap the crystal in spiritual energy. Gradually increase force until both crystal and rune light up simultaneously—that is successful resonance.”
The moment he finished speaking, both crystal and rune erupted in red light.
“This is perfect resonance. At this moment, weapon power increases by fifty percent. Even splitting mountains is not difficult!”
In the crowd, Old Zhan asked loudly.
“Teacher Yan, if the weapon is corrupted by evil energy, can the crystal still be embedded?”
Yan Jiutie glanced at him, then took out a short sword covered in black patterns.
“This is a corrupted weapon captured from a breach. Normal embedding would contaminate the crystal and cause backlash. The solution is to first purify the groove with pure heart energy, then stabilize the crystal with killing aura—working together to neutralize the corruption.”
He looked over the crowd.
“Su Mei, your pure heart cultivation is acceptable. Come assist in the demonstration.”
Su Mei stepped out of formation.
As she passed Li Xuan, she glanced at him quickly, a hint of hidden joy in her eyes.
Shen Qingci nudged Li Xuan and whispered with a smile.
“Look, isn’t that the girl you saved before? She seems to have recovered well. Looks like she remembers you.”
Li Xuan looked at Su Mei and nodded seriously.
“Yes, she has recovered.”
Shen Qingci was instantly exasperated in his heart.
“This wooden block really wastes the girl’s feelings!”
Su Mei reached the platform, and her fingers released pale white energy, purifying the sword groove. The black patterns faded like snow under sunlight.
Then she and Yan Jiutie embedded the crystal together, the short sword bursting into red-white light. The soldiers cheered.
Su Mei’s eyes secretly glanced at Li Xuan. Her face turned instantly red, like blush paint, and she hurried back to formation, too shy to lift her head.
Yan Jiutie cleared his throat.
“Today’s group practice: each person must complete one embedding and activation. I will personally supervise. Anyone who fails will spend three days helping in the kitchen and one day massaging Old Zhan’s legs!”
The soldiers immediately began working in groups.
Li Xuan, Yan Chiyu, A Man, and Su Mei were grouped together.
Yan Chiyu took out his mechanical gloves.
“I’ll use this for training.”
He embedded a crystal and activated killing aura. The glove glowed red.
“This will definitely break Old Zhan’s hard skin!”
He immediately went off to “spar” with Old Zhan.
Li Xuan turned to guide A Man.
A Man succeeded after effort, excitedly cheering.
On the other side, Su Mei struggled with unstable resonance.
Li Xuan stepped forward.
He naturally took her hand to help channel energy.
With a flash, the weapon erupted in brilliant light, even slicing off a wooden stake.
Yan Jiutie was shocked.
The soldiers began whispering.
Li Xuan quickly explained.
“It is entirely because Miss Su’s pure heart energy is strong. I only assisted slightly.”
Su Mei’s face flushed even deeper upon hearing this. She lowered her eyes, staring at the ground, her fingers quietly tugging at the edge of Li Xuan’s sleeve. Her voice was as soft as a mosquito’s hum:
“Chang Geng, if in the future you need purification power… you can… you can come find me.”
Her tone carried shyness, and beneath it, a trace of expectation.
Li Xuan paused for a moment, then gave a polite faint smile.
“Thank you, Miss Su. If I ever need it in the future, I will certainly trouble you.”
He did not notice the meaning hidden in her fingertips’ light touch or in her words. He only regarded it as goodwill between comrades.
This scene was seen by the other soldiers in the same group. Within a few days, rumors spread through the camp that “Li Xuan and Su Mei resonated with crystal embedding and sparks flew between them.” Even the cooks in the mess hall would jokingly give them extra portions of meat with smiles.
Only Li Xuan remained completely unaware, continuing his daily training and cultivation, not realizing he had already become the center of gossip in the camp.
[Jiying Hall Morning Court]
Seven days later, Bai Yanhua arrived in the capital.
The next morning, he appeared in Jiying Hall wearing his official robes after a long time. His steps were steady, his aura dignified and solemn. The robe made him look even more imposing, his brows carrying the calmness of one who had endured much.
“All hail Your Majesty! May the Emperor live ten thousand years!”
“Rise, all of you.”
“Thank you, Your Majesty!”
Seeing Bai Yanhua after a long absence, the emperor smiled warmly.
“Teacher Bai, on this trip to Lingqu Zhenyue Division, what have you gained?”
Bai Yanhua first reported in detail the matter of the Purple Decision Flower, and how Lingxi had used witch clan power, presenting all relevant evidence. His report was orderly and every word factual.
The emperor, enraged, ordered Bai Yanhua to fully investigate the remnants of Tianji Pavilion.
The emperor nodded.
“Since the matter of the Purple Decision Flower has been proven to be a misunderstanding, does anyone have objections?”
Prime Minister Li showed difficulty on his face. His lips moved, but in the end he did not dare speak further, and could only retreat to the side, unwillingness hidden in his eyes.
Bai Yanhua then presented two memorials:
“Reporting to Your Majesty, I have two additional matters.”
One was the Request to Purchase Chu Family Military Grain Memorial, and the other was the Request to Establish Fulong Camp Commercial Transport Officer Memorial.
(These two memorials were the key to whether Chu Wanran could successfully approach Li Xuan.)
“Reporting to Your Majesty, the Crown Prince is pursuing fugitives, and Fulong Camp requires troop support. At the same time, foreign tribes in the southern frontier are restless. Border defenses are strained, and grain and medicinal supplies are severely lacking. The national treasury cannot currently allocate sufficient resources.”
“The merchant Chu family in the capital has grain warehouses spread across Fenghe Warehouse, Fuyang, and other regions, with abundant reserves. Their medicinal herb business monopolizes northern and southern supply routes. I have already negotiated with the Chu family, and they are willing to supply three years of military grain and frontline medicinal supplies at a 40% discount from market price, relieving the empire’s urgent need.”
He then presented the second memorial.
“The Chu family is wealthy beyond measure, with business networks across Fenghe Warehouse, Fuyang, and Xiliang. Their operations are meticulous and their reputation is excellent. Now they are willing to supply military grain at a discounted price, showing their loyalty to the nation.”
“Fulong Camp now urgently requires unified logistics coordination and communication with merchant routes to ensure grain transport and intelligence gathering in Xiliang.”
“I request the establishment of a ‘Fulong Camp Commercial Transport Officer’ position, rank five, to be held by Chu Wanran. This officer shall oversee logistics coordination, merchant route communication, and military grain inspection, directly under the Zhenyue Division and not subject to local commanders. This will ensure efficient coordination of his business networks and guarantee military grain and medicine supply, assisting the Crown Prince’s western expedition and Fulong Camp’s defense.”
The two memorials complemented each other perfectly, solving the court’s urgent needs while also providing an excellent justification for Chu Wanran’s appointment.
After a brief consideration, the emperor waved his hand decisively.
“Granted. Inform the Zhenyue Division to properly establish the Commercial Transport Officer position!”
“I obey your decree.”
Bai Yanhua bowed, finally letting out a quiet breath.
He knew that with this decree issued, Chu Wanran’s obsessive desire regarding Commander Zhao had finally found its path.
“Court dismissed!”
“Thank you, Your Majesty!”
[Chenxiang Bieyuan]
Within five days, the court’s approval arrived swiftly at Chenxiang Bieyuan.
When Chu Wanran received the decree, his gaze was locked tightly onto the words “Fulong Camp Commercial Transport Officer.” The smile in his eyes could not be hidden, and his lips curved upward. Even his fingers holding the decree trembled slightly with excitement.
To him, who only wanted to approach Li Xuan, this decree was more precious than ten thousand taels of gold.
Steward Wei held up the newly issued fifth-rank official robe and said respectfully with a smile:
“Master, your wish has finally come true. Exchanging grain supply at sixty percent market price for an official position not only brings reputation, but also allows you to see Young Master Li every day. Truly a perfect plan.”
“Wish come true?”
Chu Wanran traced the dragon pattern on the decree, the corner of his mouth curling into a sly smile.
His eyes shone with determination.
“This is only the beginning. Just a mere grain discount, in exchange for a legitimate identity to stay by A Xuan’s side—this deal is a massive profit!”
He changed into the dark green official robe, which made him look tall and refined. Though he lacked battlefield killing intent, he carried the sharp intelligence and nobility of a merchant. The entire person radiated the energy of someone finally able to openly protect the one he loves.
The next day, Chu Wanran arrived at Fulong Camp with the imperial decree, grain transfer documents, and attendants in tow.
At the camp gate, Zhao Chengyuan had already been waiting with his generals. Seeing Chu Wanran in official robes, his brows furrowed so tightly they could crush a fly. His face darkened as if about to drip water.
He had never expected this cunning fox Chu Wanran to use grain supply as leverage to obtain an official position and enter his Fulong Camp so openly.
“Quite the ability, Chu Fox. You actually used military grain to exchange for an official post and enter my Fulong Camp so brazenly?”
Zhao Chengyuan’s tone carried undisguised hostility, his gaze sharp as blades, as if he wanted to pierce Chu Wanran through.
He had already sensed Chu Wanran’s improper intentions toward Li Xuan and naturally viewed him as his number one rival in love.
Chu Wanran cupped his hands and smiled politely, yet with unwavering confidence.
“Commander Zhao flatters me. I merely contributed my modest efforts in a time of national crisis. His Majesty, in his grace, granted me this position.”
“From now on, I will serve as Commercial Transport Officer, responsible for logistics and grain distribution. I hope the Commander will take care of me.”
He deliberately emphasized “directly under the Zhenyue Division” to block Zhao Chengyuan’s authority and ensure his stay near Li Xuan.
Zhao Chengyuan stared at the decree and documents, burning with anger but unable to do anything.
The imperial order had been issued, and Chu Wanran controlled grain and medicine supply. If he acted rashly and Chu Wanran tampered with supplies, the suffering would be borne by the soldiers of Fulong Camp.
He took a deep breath, suppressing his rage.
“Since you are here under imperial order, then follow me into the camp. However, Fulong Camp is not like a merchant house. Rules are strict, and military logistics are of utmost importance. I hope you will stay within your bounds and not overstep.”
The word “overstep” was clearly directed at warning him not to covet Li Xuan.
“Of course.”
Chu Wanran’s smile deepened as his gaze passed Zhao Chengyuan and landed on a familiar figure in the distance.
Li Xuan was training with the soldiers. His side profile under the sunlight was dazzling, sweat sliding down his jawline, causing Chu Wanran’s heartbeat to accelerate instantly.
He had finally gained the right to stand beside A Xuan openly.
After settling in, Chu Wanran immediately headed to the training grounds under the excuse of inspecting grain storage and visiting soldiers.
Li Xuan looked at him in shock.
“Ziyì? Why are you here?”
“From now on, you should call me Master Chu in the military… but if you want to call me ‘Chu Lang,’ that is also acceptable.”
Chu Wanran smiled gently, his eyes full of warmth.
His tone carried subtle indulgence.
“The Emperor has appointed me as Fulong Camp Commercial Transport Officer. I will be stationed here from now on, responsible for grain and supplies.”
He took out a box of peach pastries and quietly placed it into Li Xuan’s hands.
“This is your favorite. I brought it especially for you. Now that I oversee the soldiers’ food supply, everyone will eat better. You train hard—you should also replenish yourself.”
Li Xuan accepted the pastries, his cheeks slightly red.
“Thank you, Master Chu.”
Zhao Chengyuan watched this scene, his fists clenched so tightly that his knuckles cracked. His eyes burned with fury.
He stepped forward and blocked the two of them.
“Master Chu, the training grounds are not a place for idle chatter and gift-giving. Grain supply is a matter of national importance. Shouldn’t you be inspecting warehouses instead of standing here talking with soldiers?”
Chu Wanran raised an eyebrow, smile unchanged.
“I have already inspected the warehouses. Seeing the soldiers training hard, I came to offer encouragement. Caring for soldiers’ welfare is also part of my duty. I see nothing improper.”
“Besides, I report directly to the Zhenyue Division. How I conduct my duties is under imperial supervision, so it is not your concern.”
Zhao Chengyuan’s face turned ashen with rage, but he could not refute him.
In the following days, Chu Wanran fully utilized his commercial talent to quickly reform Fulong Camp’s logistics.
Grain deliveries were of the highest quality, rice fragrant and abundant.
Medicinal supplies were top-grade and far superior to before.
Meals in the mess hall were dramatically improved—three meals a day with meat and vegetables, occasionally adding extra dishes. The soldiers almost treated him like a benefactor.
He did all this not only for duty, but also so Li Xuan could live comfortably—and to win the soldiers’ favor as a foundation for protecting Li Xuan.
At the same time, he frequently appeared beside Li Xuan under various excuses: inspecting grain, checking meals, offering care. He treated Li Xuan like a precious fragile treasure.
When Li Xuan was injured during training, Chu Wanran would immediately use the finest medicines he brought, personally bandaging him with utmost gentleness, his eyes full of concern. The soldiers around them could not help but tease them.
Their relationship grew increasingly close, the atmosphere increasingly ambiguous, just one step away from breaking the thin paper window.
Zhao Chengyuan watched all this, anxious and furious, yet unable to find any way to stop it.
He tried many times to find excuses to transfer Chu Wanran out of Fulong Camp, but Chu Wanran always blocked him with “imperial decree” and “grain supply responsibility,” leaving him helpless. In frustration, he often smashed things in his tent, while watching the growing admiration the soldiers had for Chu Wanran, feeling increasingly suffocated.
Chu Wanran did not care at all. He only knew that he had finally obtained the chance to stay by Li Xuan’s side, and he would never give it up easily. As the person Li Xuan trusted most, his devotion and persistence would eventually shine brightest in this struggle surrounding Li Xuan.