I Rely On The Collapse Of The Character Setting To Survive In The Hands Of The Male Lead Chapter 205

Chapter 205

After that, the interaction between Yue Chen and Huo Luo didn’t seem to change much to outsiders. Bantering with each other was a common occurrence, but sometimes Yue Chen would leave Huo Luo speechless, frustrating him. Consequently, the next day, it was certain that Yue Chen would not be seen entering the palace.

Huo Luo specifically sent some gifts to Lin Qingyang, considering that Lin Qingyang’s little booklet had significantly increased his experience overnight.

In front of Chu Lishu, Lin Qingyang felt awkward holding the gifts, and could only say awkwardly, “I didn’t hoard those things myself; it was Shuncai’s initiative… Do you believe me?”

Chu Lishu raised an eyebrow, giving off an expression that clearly conveyed his disbelief, making Lin Qingyang truly speechless.

In reality, when Huo Luo asked him, he truly didn’t know anything. The only person he could think of as knowledgeable was Shuncai, after all, Shuncai had been with the original owner before and naturally needed to understand and prepare a lot to serve the master well at all times.

What could Lin Qingyang say to such a proactive and dedicated employee? All he could do was, every time he returned home and Shuncai hinted that there were new ointments and booklets to try with the young master, curse under his breath, “Get lost!”

Lin Qingyang felt frustrated. However, things between Huo Luo and Yue Chen seemed to have settled, and the ointment that repaired Mo Jiahui’s appearance began to take effect, gradually fading the scars. Not only that, Lin Tangping, who had once adventured with them, seemed to have some feelings for Mo Jiahui. However, due to Huo Luo’s presence before, he didn’t dare to act on his feelings. But upon returning from the south and hearing about the acknowledgment of kinship, he sent congratulations the next day, along with a separate gift for Mo Jiahui, wishing her well in their newfound family ties. It was a happy ending for everyone.

Soon, 【Ding, Main Mission 2, Mission 14: Help the male lead clean up the Ministry of Revenue.】

Currently, the Emperor’s complete control extends to three of the six ministries, which include the Ministry of Rites, the Ministry of Appointments, and the Ministry of Justice.

The remaining three ministries, the Ministry of War, controlled by the Cheng family, the Ministry of Works, under the Wang family, and the Ministry of Revenue, under the Pei family.

The Ministry of Rites had already been dealt with in the previous corruption scandal, with Chu Lishu taking control. Yang Jin, the current Minister of Rites, owes Chu Lishu a debt of gratitude. The Ministry of Works had its issues with embezzlement in water conservation projects addressed, leading to Lin Tangping befriending Huo Luo and Yue Chen. The Ministry of Justice also underwent cleanup following the case of illegal prisoner exchanges, with Mr. Luo, reinstated to power. Additionally, Mr. Luo often heeds the advice of Mr. Cao in many matters.

So, these three ministries are effectively under Chu Lishu’s control.

As for the Emperor, he only truly controls the Ministry of Appointments through his confidants. However, Yue Chen is now in the Inspection Court, directly counteracting certain positions within the Ministry of Appointments.

Huo Luo is situated within the Ministry of War, controlled by the Cheng family.

Now, only the Ministry of Revenue, controlled by the Pei family, remains. Among the original four major families, the Pei family’s business has thrived the most, partially thanks to the Ministry of Revenue. It must be acknowledged that wherever there is ambition, there is bound to be illegality.

Petty squabbles won’t do; there must be significant charges to accomplish the cleanup.

Before coming to the capital, Chu Lishu had already investigated and found that the Pei family, along with the Ministry of Revenue, seemed to have some issues regarding the salt industry.

If evidence of this could be found, it would be a direct offense against the royal interests.

However, under the control of Pei Jin’s father’s lineage, the Pei family is extremely cautious. Only faint traces can be detected, making it impossible to obtain solid evidence.

Now, while Chu Lishu plans to deal with the Ministry of Revenue, if no evidence can be found from the court or from market transactions, then alternative methods must be considered to lure the snakes out of their holes. This situation would become extremely troublesome.

Therefore, Chu Lishu still hopes to find tangible evidence to use against them.

In the original plot, evidence such as account books was obtained to prove their clandestine dealings, which brought down the Minister of Revenue. But… that evidence was actually… obtained by manipulating Pei Jin’s emotions, orchestrated by Chu Lishu.

Now, it’s impossible to establish anything. Not only does Chu Lishu’s current behavior pattern avoid any interaction with women, but Pei Jin also seems to harbor a strong dislike for Chu Lishu. Lin Qingyang truly fears that if the system imposes a mandatory mission, it will result in deductions.

So, Lin Qingyang can only pray that the protagonist’s small group steps up. There are rumors that they have already begun finding ways to exploit internal conflicts within the Pei family. After all, there have been several occasions where the Pei family has changed personnel assisting the Third Prince. However, despite the success of witchcraft, Pei Jin still managed to outmaneuver them, continuing to serve as the Third Prince’s study companion. Yet, those conflicts persist.

In this regard, andn Qingyang couldn’t be of much help, but he did busied himself with the marriage of his elder sister and Eldest Cousin Liu.

The two were engaged and married swiftly and quietly, according to their own wishes, without inconveniencing anyone.

Shortly after the beginning of autumn, Lin Qingyang personally escorted his sister to her wedding. In reality, he just walked her a few laps around the vicinity of their home before sending her into the Liu residence across the street.

As he carried his sister on his back, Lin Qingyang felt his collar dampened by Lin Qinglan’s tears.

“Sister, don’t cry, you’ll ruin your makeup,” Lin Qingyang said, feeling a bit touched himself. After all, in reality, although he had siblings by blood, he hadn’t experienced much sibling affection. Lin Qinglan, with her gentle demeanor, fulfilled all of Lin Qingyang’s warm imaginings of what a big sister should be.

“Yang Yang, thank you, really.”

“Thank me for what?” Lin Qingyang chuckled, his eyes slightly moist.

“If it weren’t for you suddenly maturing, if it weren’t for you and Lishu together… mother and I wouldn’t have this day. It’s because of you that we were pulled out of the depths of despair,” Lin Qinglan said hoarsely.

Lin Qingyang was taken aback for a moment, recalling that indeed, without Chu Lishu, he would never have noticed his eldest sister and mother’s issues, nor would he have been able to help them.

With this in mind, Lin Qingyang glanced sideways and saw Chu Lishu in the crowd not far away, his lips curved in a smile, quietly watching him.

At first, Lin Qingyang couldn’t imagine that such a male lead would one day stand among family and friends to accompany him in sending off his sister, participating in such mundane affairs. The male lead had truly changed a lot.

After the wedding banquet, Lin Qingyang leaned against Chu Lishu, who supported him with one hand as they walked back. Even if servants saw them, Lin Qingyang couldn’t be bothered to avoid suspicion, as if it had become second nature to him.

Glancing sideways at Chu Lishu, Lin Qingyang noticed that in the moonlight, Chu Lishu seemed to be glowing, his skin almost translucent due to the slight intoxication, giving the impression that if one were to taste him, it would surely be sweet.

“Just now, my sister said if it weren’t for us, she wouldn’t have found happiness.”

“Yeah, she thanked me earlier too.”

“Thank you… I know, if it weren’t for your help, we wouldn’t have…”

“Didn’t you say it already? This is my home too. Shouldn’t I help my family? Is there still a need for thanks?”

Lin Qingyang’s gaze flickered slightly as he felt that Chu Lishu’s scent was becoming increasingly captivating, irresistible in a way. He couldn’t help but feel the urge to lean in and take a sniff, but he restrained himself as such behavior seemed a bit abnormal. However, when drunk, Lin Qingyang didn’t care anymore. He let his self-control falter and lifted his arms, unconsciously wrapping them around Chu Lishu from the side, resting his head on his shoulder.

From this angle, Lin Qingyang could see Chu Lishu’s earlobes gradually turning red, with a small mole adorning them, exuding a seductive charm. For some reason, every time he saw that tiny mole, Lin Qingyang felt a surge of impulse.

Lin Qingyang unconsciously tilted his head back and lightly brushed his nose against Chu Lishu’s skin.

Chu Lishu didn’t make any move, but the corners of his mouth involuntarily curved upwards.

So clingy.

“Just now, my sister looked so beautiful. Women in red wedding dresses are indeed the most beautiful,” Lin Qingyang mumbled drunkenly. Yet, his mind drifted to the memory of Chu Lishu in that red wedding attire, which was truly beautiful, so beautiful that Lin Qingyang couldn’t imagine any other woman surpassing him in beauty.

Chu Lishu also thought of that moment, his smile remaining unchanged, but there was a hint of indulgent helplessness on his face. Was this his way of hinting at something? Well, fine. He resolved to wear red more often for him to see.

When they reached the room and Chu Lishu was being set down, Lin Qingyang still didn’t let go and pulled him into a hug.

Given such a warm invitation, Chu Lishu naturally didn’t want to refuse. However, just as they returned, Lu Yi seemed to have urgent matters to report. He could only coax the tipsy Lin Qingyang into letting go and then planted a kiss on his murmuring lips before reluctantly getting up and leaving.

Lu Yi did indeed bring important news.

The next morning, Lin Qingyang woke up to the buzz of chatter among the household servants.

When he first heard it, Lin Qingyang was dumbfounded.

Crown Prince Yuan Ye and the former Crown Princess Jing Rouyin, were caught having an affair?

What’s going on? How did the plot twist back around like this?

Lin Qingyang hurriedly went to find Chu Lishu.

But as he approached, Chu Lishu returned from outside and upon seeing him, gestured to take him out, heading towards Prime Minister Li’s residence.

On the carriage, Lin Qingyang quickly asked, “Is it because of Jing Rouyin’s affair?”

“You’ve heard about it? It seems like it was planned for a long time. They moved swiftly, and now it’s common knowledge already. Heh,” Chu Lishu chuckled.

“After the witchcraft incident last time, Jing Rouyin hasn’t shown her face, and Cao Wanying has left as well. I was almost forgetting about that matter. How did she end up entangled with Yuan Ye again?” Lin Qingyang exclaimed.

“It’s just Yuan Ye’s stupidity, reaping what he sows,” Chu Lishu scoffed.

Lin Qingyang was astonished. In fact, he had subconsciously felt that Jing Rouyin wouldn’t survive, as any faction could target her. So, he hadn’t paid much attention to her affairs.

“As for Empress Cheng…” Lin Qingyang trailed off.

“Empress Cheng indeed wanted to kill Jing Rouyin because she believed that although the subsequent events were successful with the help of the Pei family, the initial failure was caused by Jing Rouyin. Jing Rouyin sought refuge with the Wang family’s faction, and Empress Cheng was quite aware of this. It’s just a pity she has a foolish son who was easily swayed by Jing Rouyin, convinced of her innocence. He even secretly protected Jing Rouyin and indulged in her affections,” Chu Lishu explained.

Lin Qingyang was speechless. So even bears could fall into the beauty trap, huh? Curious, he asked, “Then how did their affair get exposed?”

“It was retaliation from the Wang family. Although they couldn’t cause trouble within the court, they could still make moves outside. The Eldest Prince believed that Jing Rouyin had deceived them from start to finish, causing them to fall into a trap. Obviously, simply getting rid of her wasn’t enough to quell their anger. Since they already knew about her relationship with Yuan Ye, they naturally wanted to use it to their advantage, causing Yuan Ye to stumble as well, seeking revenge together. As for what happened last night, Yuan Ye and Jing Rouyin were caught having an affair on a pleasure boat when their boat collided with another, catching them red-handed,” Chu Lishu explained.

“Jing Rouyin actually agreed to meet? Wasn’t she always playing hard to get?” Lin Qingyang couldn’t imagine.

“Yuan Ye isn’t truly devoted; he’s just stubbornly determined to have Jing Rouyin. In his efforts to resist Empress Cheng for Jing Rouyin’s sake, he naturally expects some benefits. And Jing Rouyin probably wanted to reassure Yuan Ye and prove her innocence. Besides, wasn’t she already struggling to maintain her multiple facades? Her best option now is to cling to Yuan Ye, gambling on his ascension to the throne. But she also doesn’t want to reveal her hand too early; it’s not advantageous for her. If she doesn’t marry, she can still play her games, but once she’s married, she’ll lose her autonomy. However, it’s not up to her anymore,” Chu Lishu analyzed.

“Could it be that the Emperor has already decreed the marriage?” Lin Qingyang speculated.

“At least the Pei family will definitely support the marriage, and with the people I have on hand, it’s almost half of the court demanding action on the scandal. Now, they can’t avoid giving them a title.”

Lin Qingyang remarked with a dry laugh. “Marrying his sister in law… Yuan Ye has definitely earned himself a permanent stain.”

Chu Lishu immediately frowned and clarified, “They’re not married yet, so she’s not his sister in law.” After all, he had never married Jing Rouyin.

Seeing Chu Lishu’s displeasure, Lin Qingyang quickly apologized with a smile and then asked, “Why are we going to Prime Minister Li’s residence? Can’t we just stay out of this matter?”

Chu Lishu spoke in a solemn tone, “It’s certainly not for their sake. Last night, my men brought me news that private soldiers are slowly gathering outside the city. I went to check personally, and it looks like it’s almost time.”

Lin Qingyang’s pupils contracted as he immediately foresaw the upcoming events.

At the same time, he heard Chu Lishu saying, “It’s expected that about a month from now, the Eldest Prince will come out, coinciding with the autumn hunting expedition of the royal family. The Eldest  Prince is planning a rebellion.”

【Main Mission 2, Mission 15: Assist the male lead in completing the rebellion plan of the Wang family.】

During the Imperial Concubine Huang’s time in seclusion, she had faced several assassination attempts. However, she had loyal servants from the Wang family by her side, barely escaping a few times. Once, Chu Lishu had intervened to save her life. Of course, her survival was necessary for Chu Lishu to continue provoking the Eldest Prince. Despite being under house arrest, the Eldest Prince still received news from the outside world. Learning of his mother’s danger, he couldn’t bear it.

Nowadays, the Wang family’s power can only be considered minor among the noble clans. The Pei and Cheng factions continue to suppress them, rendering them unable to provide support to the Eldest Prince in the court. They are essentially completely marginalized. Moreover, the Emperor dislikes him. As an isolated and unsupported prince, if things continue like this, regardless of who ascends to the throne, he will meet a dire fate. Especially considering he can’t even protect his own mother.

Thus, with no retreat available, the Eldest Prince opts for his final move—a decision that Chu Lishu had anticipated long ago.

After all, Chu Lishu had long discovered the Wang family’s activities of raising private troops across various regions. Perhaps the Eldest Prince had already considered such a move during his days of being out of favor. Compared to playing political games, he preferred the straightforward approach of martial combat. The Wang family had prepared for his inclinations, but they probably hadn’t expected to put their plans into action so soon.

Chu Lishu understood the Eldest Prince’s temperament and character. Among the three princes, only he dared to take such bold steps. Therefore, elevate him, then bring him crashing down. This would force the Wang family into a corner, where no matter how cautious they were, they would have to choose to fight to the death alongside the Eldest Prince.

Chu Lishu’s intention in pushing the Eldest Prince to rebellion wasn’t just about eliminating the Wang family. Firstly, it was for military power, and secondly… for certain truths known only to Imperial Concubine Huang.

In the original plot, Chu Lishu would clandestinely assist the Eldest Prince all the way to the Emperor’s presence, then reap the benefits.

So, when the Eldest Prince began his preparations, Chu Lishu also entered into the preparation phase. Even the matter with the Ministry of Revenue was temporarily put on hold.

However, before the autumn hunt, there was the Crown Prince’s wedding, a ceremony that became the subject of ridicule and embarrassment throughout the realm.

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