I Rely On The Collapse Of The Character Setting To Survive In The Hands Of The Male Lead Chapter 175

Chapter 175

For Lin Qingyang, someone who had nearly killed him, he had no sympathy. It was just a matter of reflection. Moreover, he still remembered that the mission was to help the male lead kill Chief Steward Ning, so a direct confrontation was only a matter of time.

As for Chu Lishu, the desire to kill Ning Ziheng was not about judging good or bad people. Under the influence of power, the distinction between good and bad was blurred, and he himself could not necessarily be considered a good person. However, because Ning Ziheng had harmed Lin Qingyang and intended to target him, Chu Lishu naturally wanted Ning Ziheng’s life. Even if it were someone else instead of Lin Qingyang, he wouldn’t show mercy to an enemy.

All the details about Ning Ziheng were just that, details. Chu Lishu’s mindset about what needed to be done remained unchanged. Currently, the most crucial thing for him was the relationship between Blood Abyss Pavilion and Ning Ziheng.

The Blood Abyss Pavilion was an influential force in the martial arts world that couldn’t be ignored. Specializing in assassinations, they had even attempted to assassinate him before. It was a formidable organization that was challenging to eliminate.

Despite the significant commotion caused by the last incident where he posed as a Blood Abyss Pavilion assassin attempting to kill the Fourth Prince, prompting the Emperor to order an investigation and the eradication of the Blood Abyss Pavilion, it seemed ironic that Chief Steward Ning could now bring a renowned Daoist from the Blood Abyss Pavilion to help save the princes. This situation appeared quite absurd.

It seemed necessary to make good use of this incident and report it to Prime Minister Li. Even if there was no actual connection between the Blood Abyss Pavilion and Ning Ziheng, it was crucial to make Prime Minister Li believe there was a connection. The fact that they were willing to save the other three princes but targeted the Fourth Prince should be enough to provoke Prime Minister Li’s indignation. This way, Prime Minister Li’s metaphorical blade could be decisively aimed at Ning Ziheng and the Blood Abyss Pavilion.

Chu Lishu half-closed his eyes, already immersed in designing and plotting within his mind.

“What are you thinking? If you’re tired, just close your eyes and sleep. We’ve been on the road all night, and it might not be until the afternoon that we arrive. By then, we’ll need to go directly to the palace to explain matters. There won’t be any other time for rest.”

After getting on the carriage, Chu Lishu leaned against the side, not bothering to lie down to sleep. Although the carriage felt a bit cramped with three people, there was still enough space for Chu Lishu alone. However, he persisted with a face full of weariness, continuously pondering over issues. Clearly burdened with heavy thoughts, he refused to sleep, his face so pale as if he might run out of breath at any moment. It was genuinely a cause for great concern.

“Yeah, Senior Brother, I just administered acupuncture for you. You should get some rest; it’ll help with your recovery.”

“It’s alright, not too tired. I’m just thinking about the Blood Abyss Pavilion. The Daoist today is a member of the Blood Abyss Pavilion.”

The Blood Abyss Pavilion – Lin Qingyang knew that Chu Lishu had been investigating the Blood Abyss Pavilion. In the original plot, the Blood Abyss Pavilion would also become a powerful tool for Chu Lishu. Lin Qingyang naturally knew who the master of the Blood Abyss Pavilion was and the extent of its influence. However, he couldn’t spoil the plot for Chu Lishu. Just imagine, if information that even the main character couldn’t uncover was casually revealed by him, the consequences were unimaginable.

Finding out was a matter of time for the male lead. Knowing in advance could interfere with the original plans of the male lead, and there might be a butterfly effect later on. With the blood and tears lesson from the Wu Xin Fort incident, Lin Qingyang felt he couldn’t bear it, so he preferred to go with the flow.

“I’ve heard about the number one killer organization in the martial world. There are a few experts in poison. I’d like to see their skills,” said Mu Huichun.

Lin Qingyang couldn’t help teasing him, “It’s simple. Just place an order with Blood Abyss Pavilion, let them come after you, and you’ll have a chance to experience their abilities.”

“Really?” Mu Huichun exclaimed.

Lin Qingyang suddenly felt awkward. He had just made a joke because Chu Lishu had done something similar in the original plot. How come Mu Huichun took it seriously? He quickly tried to rectify, “I was just joking. Who knows how to place an order? I only have the experience of being assassinated, not assassinating others.”

“Ah?” Mu Huichun looked instantly disappointed and then turned his hopeful gaze to Chu Lishu, “Senior Brother…”

Chu Lishu smiled and said, “You’ll get to see it sooner or later, but now is not the time.”

“Senior Brother, you’re really good,” Mu Huichun said, then gave Lin Qingyang a somewhat complaining look, as if expressing his dissatisfaction with him.

After not sitting for long in the carriage, Mu Huichun saw Liu Xiaowei riding a horse outside, feeling excited. He couldn’t resist the urge to ride as well. Last time, he almost had a disastrous fall while attempting to escape on horseback, but instead of being deterred, he suddenly developed an interest and wanted to learn how to ride properly.

So Lin Qingyang entrusted the child to his uncle.

Now, there were only the two of them in the carriage, and Chu Lishu suddenly lay down, looking weary.

Lin Qingyang stared at him in surprise. “You just…”

“When my junior brother is around, I can’t easily fall asleep. I find it difficult to do so when there’s someone by my side,” Chu Lishu explained.

“That…that…” Should I leave too? But wait, didn’t Chu Lishu used to sleep quite well when I was around?

As if anticipating what he was about to say, Chu Lishu’s slightly hoarse voice echoed in the carriage with a faint smile, “I can sleep more peacefully with you by my side. I suppose I’ve grown accustomed to it. However, even though he’s my junior brother, we haven’t spent much time together, and my instincts aren’t accustomed to his presence.”

Lin Qingyang fell silent instantly.

The carriage was bumping and swaying. Even with many makeshift items added to cushion the ride, the vibrations were still felt—unsteady and uncomfortable. Sitting was manageable, but lying down was quite awful. Chu Lishu, however, lay down directly, attempting to close his eyes, evidently reaching an exhausted state. He probably didn’t even care about the pain from the various injuries on his body.

Remembering Yue Chen’s advice, Lin Qingyang hastily said, “Sleeping like this must be uncomfortable, and the journey is too long. With your injuries, it’s better not to force yourself. I’ll hold you, and you can rest against me to reduce the jolting.”

Lin Qingyang immediately half-laid down, leaning against the side of the carriage. With his long legs stretched out and firmly planted on the edge, his whole body felt more stable. Extending his arms, he turned to look at Chu Lishu.

Chu Lishu looked at Lin Qingyang with some confusion. He didn’t have many external injuries, mostly internal injuries. On the other hand, Lin Qingyang had some external injuries, although not severe, they had already been treated. If he pressed against Lin Qingyang, he might feel a bit uncomfortable.

However, Lin Qingyang was already reaching out eagerly to support him.

Chu Lishu suddenly realized and couldn’t help but suppress a laugh. They had already kissed before, and during that moment, he had solemnly pretended it was inappropriate.

Now, Lin Qingyang, regardless of comfort, was wholeheartedly trying to stick to him. It was really…

Chu Lishu didn’t resist, letting this little thing fiddle around. If he wanted to hug, then let him be happy.

The warm chest, the embracing arms securing him, the familiar scent enveloping him with a comforting feeling, indeed, it was more comfortable than the floor of the carriage, allowing one to sleep more peacefully.

Chu Lishu couldn’t help but snuggle closer, adjusting to the most comfortable position. Lin Qingyang also cooperated with his adjustments, and in no time, both of them felt that the position was just right, so they stopped.

Chu Lishu’s upper body was pressed against Lin Qingyang’s chest, sleeping in his embrace. In a half-dreaming state, he said, “Cousin, if you’re tired, just let go of me. You need rest too.”

“Mmm, I know.”

Chu Lishu quickly drifted into sleep, dragging his exhausted body with him. Lin Qingyang, in order to stabilize both of them, naturally couldn’t fall asleep. He could only let his mind wander, flipping through the system, calculating scores, and then imagining what he needed to do when he got home. He also reminisced about the entire mountain fort incident, as many things had changed, and he wondered if there were any loopholes.

But when Lin Qingyang snapped back to reality, his whole face turned red.

He only realized he had been reminiscing for who knows how long about the ceremony, Chu Lishu in a red wedding gown, and the kiss to extract the poison. Lin Qingyang suddenly felt extremely guilty, and the person in his arms became exceptionally present, even radiating heat. Lin Qingyang felt stiff all over, awkward and at a loss.

He didn’t want to recall these memories. How could he actively think about such things? He wanted to forget them, but how…

He lifted the cover and saw a blushing Chu Lishu. The image of Chu Lishu, who was so close, with a completely different expression than usual, was deeply imprinted in his mind, like an indelible mark. The more he tried not to think about it, the more vivid the images became.

Indeed, those experiences had a profound impact on him, a young man. It was too much for any normal person to endure such things. Whose mind wouldn’t be affected after going through such events?

Lin Qingyang couldn’t help but lower his head and look at the person in his arms. Chu Lishu’s complexion was indeed not good; even his lips lacked color, turning into a faint pink. However, he was sleeping soundly, seemingly casting away all defenses against the outside world. He appeared docile and gentle, sleeping in Lin Qingyang’s embrace, creating a sense of bliss.

No, he shouldn’t be savoring the beauty of the moment. He wanted to replace those strange and unsettling images in his mind with the image of a normal male lead in male attire.

Wait a minute, why did the image of Chu Lishu wearing male attire and kissing him in front of others during their farewell reappear in his mind? At that time, his lip color seemed pale, just like it is now…

Lin Qingyang’s mind once again went out of control. In the end, he felt a bit resigned to his fate. After all, there was no one else in the carriage, and the male lead was asleep. No one would know what he was up to. A dark corner of his mind suggested that he should indulge himself, watch as much as he wanted, and erase all the inappropriate images from his mind. This way, he could return to normal.

So, Lin Qingyang stared intently, and as he continued to watch, his focus became fixed on Chu Lishu’s face. Unconsciously, he became entranced, and his gaze concentrated on the male lead’s lips.

They… have kissed several times, and he seems to remember how the male lead’s lips feel when kissed—soft, sweet, and fragrant. In any case, they feel really good to kiss. He hasn’t kissed anyone else, so he doesn’t know if others would feel the same.

He wonders what it would be like when Chu Lishu returns to being Yuan Ran. He remembers Yuan Ran’s appearance, and even though he painted those lovely lip shapes, he once shamefully dreamed about it. Though different from the current situation, he can still imagine what it might feel like.

Lin Qingyang unconsciously falls into a daze, leaning in without realizing it. The lips in front of him seem soft and delicious, like tempting jelly, making it hard to resist the desire to…

Suddenly, the carriage abruptly stopped. While Lin Qingyang’s body was stabilized, his head wasn’t. Especially now, as he held Chu Lishu, their heads were close together, face to face.

As a result, due to the sudden halt, Lin Qingyang, caught off guard, accidentally kissed him. It could even be described as a forceful collision with those pale pink lips, giving them a firm press.

Lin Qingyang’s first reaction was, indeed, this sensation.

His second reaction was, isn’t this the most cliché plot twist? Shouldn’t it be the male lead and the female lead at this point? How did he, the supporting character, encounter such a coincidental situation? Face, nose, anything could have been hit, but why the lips!

The third reaction: Retreat quickly.

As Lin Qingyang was about to pull back, Chu Lishu’s eyelashes quivered, and he opened his eyes. Those eyes, sparkling like cold stars, were covered in a misty sheen as he stared blankly. The deep black pupils clearly reflected Lin Qingyang’s misdeed.

Lin Qingyang instantly felt a chill down his spine. This was bad. He got caught red-handed attempting a dubious move. Wait, no, he wasn’t the one making advances; it was the world playing tricks on him, forcing these situations onto the male lead. Even the supporting character wasn’t spared. Male lead, let me explain… Oh no!

Lin Qingyang’s rich psychological turmoil wasn’t over yet when he witnessed Chu Lishu slowly closing his eyes and slipping back into slumber. It seemed as if he had only been momentarily disturbed, completely ignoring whatever Lin Qingyang might have done.

What’s more, Chu Lishu moved slightly, parting his lips ever so slightly as a warm and moist breath escaped, almost like the hook of a soul-stealing entity. It passed through Lin Qingyang’s mouth, nearly capturing his soul.

Lin Qingyang immediately snapped out of his stupor, panic setting in. He hastily moved away, as if avoiding something, his heart racing once again.

Lin Qingyang quickly averted his gaze. The male lead should be half-asleep, pretending that nothing had happened. He wouldn’t leave any evidence behind… Ah!

Lin Qingyang almost let out a scream, his voice completely trapped in his throat. His wide-eyed stare was fixed on the area near the door curtain.

Because at this moment, his uncle, Liu Xiaowei, had a look of shock, frozen in the motion of lifting the curtain halfway, staring at him.

This expression clearly indicated that he saw everything. Moreover, Lin Qingyang didn’t even know when he had appeared. Blame it on his uncle’s excellent lightness skill. Now, he had truly lost face at his uncle’s family.

Liu Xiaowei opened his mouth, seemingly about to say something. Lin Qingyang was afraid he might shout, so he quickly gestured with excitement, placing a finger over his lips in a shushing motion. He wore a pleading expression, using hand signals to convey that everything just now was an accident—a complete accident.

Watching his uncle’s expression change from hesitation to seriousness, Lin Qingyang wasn’t sure if he had understood. However, in the end, his uncle left.

Liu Xiaowei mounted his horse again. In fact, he just wanted to inform them that the carriage rope had broken, someone was coming to fix it, and they needed to wait. However, upon entering, he witnessed an unbelievable scene. Accidentally kissing could be explained, but why were they in each other’s arms? Moreover, Chu Lishu seemed to be in a deep sleep due to his injuries. It was too strange.

He instinctively felt that Chu Lishu was dangerous and didn’t like his nephew getting too close to this person. However, he seemed to recall that Liu Jingchen had mentioned something before—his nephew was a homosexual. Could it be that…? Thinking back to the recent scene, setting aside his dislike for Chu Lishu, it appeared as though his nephew had ill intentions towards his cousin. Taking advantage of his cousin being unconscious, he hugged and kissed him, nearly waking him up in the process, before hastily moving away with a guilty conscience.

Uncle Liu Xiaowei felt that his worldview had been shaken. He wasn’t feeling well at all. He was determined to report this incident to Liu Jingchen when they returned to the capital.

This revelation left Lin Qingyang deeply reflective, and for the rest of the journey, he dared not look at Chu Lishu again, keeping his head turned in the opposite direction.

And Chu Lishu had a good night’s sleep, and his body recovered well. In the originally hot summer, there was unexpectedly a cool breeze. When he woke up and opened his eyes, Lin Qingyang turned his head, and his forehead was covered in fine sweat. However, his hand continued to fan Chu Lishu with a fan.

Chu Lishu couldn’t help but feel a softness in his heart and gently called out, “Cousin.”

What he saw next was Lin Qingyang avoiding eye contact, looking guilty and unwilling to meet his gaze. Chu Lishu was puzzled for a moment, instantly recalling that he seemed to have dreamt of Lin Qingyang kissing him. Could it be not a dream? Did this guy really take advantage of him while he was asleep?

It’s really… at such a young age, how can one be so greedy? If they end up together in the future, it’s afraid it won’t be as simple as just stealing a kiss. He needed to give him a lesson.

“Cousin, what’s wrong?” Chu Lishu suppressed a smile, turned around, approached, and involuntarily placed his hand on Lin Qingyang’s thigh. “Seems like you’re not looking too well.”

Lin Qingyang immediately felt awkward, tensing up his body even more and avoiding eye contact with Chu Lishu. “No, everything’s fine. I’m perfectly fine.”

“Oh, really?” Chu Lishu reached out and touched Lin Qingyang’s cheek. “It’s quite hot. Are you sure you’re not uncomfortable?”

Lin Qingyang was getting anxious. Don’t get so close; your breath is hitting my face. What if the carriage suddenly…

“We’ve arrived at the palace! Stop!”

Suddenly, the carriage under Lin Qingyang jerked to a halt. Chu Lishu, who was already half-kneeling on the carriage, lost his balance in an instant.

Watching Chu Lishu suddenly lunge towards him, Lin Qingyang almost cursed the heavens.

Is this not over yet? This is just torment!

Even if it’s entertaining, scheduling so much in a day, readers are going to get tired of it! This is not how you use plot twists!

This time, Lin Qingyang, quick-witted, grabbed Chu Lishu’s shoulders, supporting him and helping him sit back properly.

“I’m fine. It’s time to get off the carriage. Tidy up a bit; I’ll go explain the palace matters to Uncle and Mu Huichun first,” Lin Qingyang said, almost fleeing the carriage.

Chu Lishu squinted, turned to look, shook his head with a light smile, and began to tidy himself up.

After getting off the carriage, Lin Qingyang finally felt a bit less stifling. However, under the gaze projected by his uncle, Lin Qingyang couldn’t help but feel embarrassed.

Because Mu Huichun and Liu Xiaowei were also involved in the whole incident, they were summoned to the palace for questioning. However, as they were not the main participants and had unintentionally become involved due to their connection with Lin Qingyang, they were asked few questions and then released.

Mu Huichun did receive many rewards because of his meritorious deeds in rescuing the disaster-stricken people and saving the Eldest Prince. The Emperor even expressed the intention to have him join the palace as a royal physician. However, Mu Huichun claimed to be young, still learning, with a carefree personality, and preferred to travel around. The Emperor did not insist on forcing him into a different role.

Lin Qingyang and Chu Lishu had to stay in the palace to continue cooperating in recounting the events. Therefore, they entrusted Mu Huichun and Liu Xiaowei to return to the other courtyard.

Standing at the door, Liu Jingchen had been waiting for them. He heard that Mu Huichun came to treat the County Princess Yawen, initially thinking of taking them directly to her. However, seeing the weary look on the young man’s face, he hesitated to trouble them immediately. He decided to wait until Lin Qingyang and the others returned before making arrangements, so he arranged for them to rest first.

Busy with the arrangements, Liu Jingchen noticed that Liu Xiaowei was following him all along, indicating that he had something to say. So, he stopped and inquired. Liu Xiaowei didn’t hesitate and recounted what he had witnessed, adding at the end, “Lin Qingyang’s behavior is not good.”

Liu Jingchen hesitated for a while, realizing that he couldn’t disclose the entire truth to his younger uncle. Instead, he patted his uncle’s shoulder and said, “They… have already been tacitly accepted as a couple in the family. So, just consider him your nephew’s wife. Anyway, in our family, Qingyang has sworn off romantic relationships, and having someone like that as a partner is better than a random concubine in the inner courtyard.”

Liu Xiaowei, who had just been thinking of describing Chu Lishu as not a good person: …Nephew’s wife???

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