Chapter Summaries

Chapter Summary: “The Taste of Power”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shen Fangli playfully jumps onto Yan Xianjue’s back and covers his eyes, confident that he will recognize her and never hurt her. He carries her into a newly set-up tent.
• They joke about her growing thirteen millimeters taller and discuss the traditional medicine she has stopped taking. Shen notes that, at minimum, it cured her menstrual cramps.
• Yan prepares tea for Shen instead of their usual milk tea. Their playful exchange emphasizes their comfortable, affectionate relationship.
• The narrative then shifts to Lin Shi, who visits Yan Yi’an for tea after confronting the Lin family about corruption within Lin Corporation.
• At the Lin Household, Lin Shi presents Old Master Lin with evidence of widespread misconduct: tax evasion, substituting inferior materials for high-grade ones, pocketing the difference, and filling management positions with family connections.
• Lin Lang criticizes Lin Shi for dismissing longtime employees and destabilizing the company, arguing that the problems should have been handled gradually and discreetly.
• Lin Shi counters that the company must conduct a thorough investigation before its corruption is exposed publicly. He argues that short-term losses are preferable to allowing internal parasites to destroy the corporation.
• Old Master Lin acknowledges that Lin Shi is correct about removing corrupt elements but warns that his methods are overly aggressive.
• Lin Shi openly defends his approach, portraying himself as the necessary “blade” to clear away corruption, while criticizing Lin Lang as someone who merely preserves a false sense of stability.

Character Developments

• Yan Xianjue is shown as affectionate and protective beneath his restrained manner. He indulges Shen Fangli’s teasing, carries her carefully, and takes pleasure in her trust.
• Shen Fangli appears playful, cheerful, and emotionally secure in her relationship with Yan. Her confidence that he would never harm her highlights the depth of their mutual trust.
• Lin Shi demonstrates confidence, decisiveness, and political boldness. He is willing to confront powerful relatives and accept temporary financial losses to reform the corporation.
• Lin Lang is revealed as a defender of established practices and concealed wrongdoing, though he frames his position as concern for company stability and employee loyalty.
• Old Master Lin appears pragmatic and cautious. He recognizes the truth of Lin Shi’s accusations but is wary of Lin Shi’s uncompromising methods.
• Yan Yi’an is presented as a composed figure hosting Lin Shi for tea, suggesting a serious conversation or alliance connected to the corporate conflict.

Significant Themes

• Trust and intimacy: Shen and Yan’s playful physical interaction reflects deep familiarity and faith in one another.
• Health and moderation: The discussion of traditional medicine, height, and menstrual relief contrasts youthful hopes with the practical principle that excess can be harmful.
• Reform versus tradition: Lin Shi favors aggressive restructuring, while Lin Lang represents gradual correction and preservation of existing relationships.
• Power and legitimacy: The chapter explores what makes leadership effective—maintaining order or confronting corruption directly.
• Appearance versus reality: Lin Shi condemns the corporation’s outwardly respectable structure, which conceals nepotism, fraud, and exploitation.
• Short-term sacrifice for long-term survival: Lin Shi accepts temporary losses as necessary to protect Lin Corporation’s future reputation and stability.

Character Interactions

• Yan Xianjue and Shen Fangli: Their teasing conversation and physical closeness show affection, trust, and an easy domestic rapport.
• Lin Shi and Lin Lang: Their confrontation is both ideological and personal. Lin Shi deliberately provokes Lin Lang by contrasting his own reformist approach with Lin Lang’s conservative management.
• Lin Shi and Old Master Lin: Lin Shi respectfully presents evidence but forcefully argues his case, attempting to persuade his grandfather that drastic action is necessary.
• Lin Shi and Yan Yi’an: Their tea meeting creates a transition from the family dispute to a likely strategic discussion, with Lin Shi adopting a more controlled but still challenging tone.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lin Shi is summoned by Old Master Lin, who questions him about a conflict with the Yan Household.
• A car from the Yan Household is parked outside the Lin Household, causing tension.
• Lin Shi is invited to discuss a matter with Yan Yi'an, the Yan family heir.
• Yan Yi'an shows Lin Shi a paternity test report, revealing that Lin Shi's Asian assistant, Ji Xi, is his son.

Character Developments

• Lin Shi: Starts off defiant and sarcastic, but becomes guarded and wary when faced with Yan Yi'an. He struggles to maintain composure and shows restraint, reflecting his internal conflict and past experiences.
• Yan Yi'an: Calm and collected, he uses the paternity test report to gain leverage over Lin Shi. He reveals his strategic and manipulative side, showing that he is not to be underestimated.
• Old Master Lin: Suspicious of Lin Shi's actions, he questions him about the conflict with the Yan Household. He shows favoritism towards Lin Lang, his other son.
• Lin Lang: Secretly rejoices in Lin Shi's predicament, showing his jealousy and rivalry towards his brother. He tries to manipulate Old Master Lin to his advantage.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and manipulation: Yan Yi'an uses the paternity test report to assert his power and control over Lin Shi. Old Master Lin manipulates his sons to maintain his authority.
• Family secrets and hidden truths: The paternity test report reveals a secret about Lin Shi's son, Ji Xi. This secret has the potential to disrupt the balance of power within the Lin and Yan households.
• Restraint and internal conflict: Lin Shi struggles to maintain his composure and restraint in the face of Yan Yi'an's manipulation. This reflects his internal conflict and the constant pressure he feels within the Lin Household.

Character Interactions

• Lin Shi and Old Master Lin: Their interaction is tense, with Old Master Lin questioning Lin Shi about the conflict with the Yan Household. Lin Shi is defiant but ultimately complies with his father's wishes.
• Lin Shi and Lin Lang: Their interaction is filled with tension and rivalry. Lin Lang secretly rejoices in Lin Shi's predicament and tries to manipulate Old Master Lin to his advantage.
• Lin Shi and Yan Yi'an: Their interaction is guarded and wary. Yan Yi'an uses the paternity test report to gain leverage over Lin Shi, while Lin Shi struggles to maintain his composure and restraint. Despite their tension, there is a hint of mutual understanding between them.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yan Yi'an visits Lin Shi, revealing knowledge of the Lin Household's feng shui arrangements.
• Yan Yi'an shows Lin Shi a feng shui diagram indicating a tree that benefits lifespan, which corresponds to a tree in the Lin Household.
• Lin Shi suspects the tree's destruction could affect Old Master Lin's lifespan.
• Yan Yi'an presents a 'powerful herbicide' (Life-Ending Pill) to Lin Shi, suggesting it could 'weed out' the Lin Household.
• Lin Shi refuses to hand over the explosives formula, arguing that Yan Yi'an wants him to take the blame.

Character Developments

• Lin Shi: Becomes more serious and cooperative when discussing the potential impact on Old Master Lin's lifespan. Stands up to Yan Yi'an, refusing to be manipulated.
• Yan Yi'an: Shows understanding of feng shui and brings the Life-Ending Pill to Lin Shi, hinting at a solution to their problem. Attempts to manipulate Lin Shi but is met with resistance.

Significant Themes

• Manipulation and power dynamics: Yan Yi'an tries to manipulate Lin Shi, but Lin Shi resists, highlighting the complex power dynamics between them.
• Trust and deception: Both characters are cautious and secretive, reflecting the lack of trust between them.

Character Interactions

• Yan Yi'an and Lin Shi: Their interaction is tense and guarded, with each trying to outmaneuver the other. Despite their shared goal, they remain wary of each other's intentions.

Chapter Summary

Plot and Key Events

• Lin Shi tells Yan Yi’an that he may be able to help with the plan involving the Lin Household, but initially pretends that the offered rewards—an herbicide, a questionable feng shui diagram, and vague leverage—are insufficient compensation.
• Yan Yi’an counters by threatening to reveal Lin Shi’s true identity and secret return to the Lin Corporation to Old Master Lin. He reminds Lin Shi that the Lin Household may respond brutally, potentially through imprisonment or death.
• Forced to acknowledge the danger, Lin Shi agrees to cooperate, but demands practical assistance from the Yan Corporation or Yan Household.
• Lin Shi explains that the herbicide will dissolve in water and slowly weaken the target trees without immediately arousing suspicion. Yan Yi’an proposes using the Yan Corporation’s professional gardening team as a means of getting explosives into the Lin Household, while carefully avoiding directly taking responsibility for the operation.
• Yan Yi’an also asks about the “Little Monk” currently in Lin Shi’s custody. Lin Shi refuses to hand him over and instead proposes exchanging information.
• Their discussion turns to the strange possibility that Su Su’s claims about being a “protagonist,” the Little Monk, and metaphysics may be genuine. Yan Yi’an admits he does not know whether it is real, but believes they must investigate.
• Lin Shi realizes he has been drawn into a larger, mysterious plan involving feng shui or supernatural forces. He negotiates one final benefit: Yan Yi’an will create problems for Lin Lang so that Lin Lang cannot interfere with him.

Character Developments

• Lin Shi: Although outwardly cynical and provocative, Lin Shi is deeply protective of Yu Bai and the Little Monk. His refusal to let Yan Yi’an expose Yu Bai’s hacker identity reveals loyalty beneath his ruthless façade. He is also cautious and pragmatic, agreeing to cooperate only after securing useful advantages.
• Yan Yi’an: Yan Yi’an is shown to be calculating, forceful, and highly capable of intimidation. He can manipulate others through precise threats, yet he also understands the importance of negotiation and offers Lin Shi concrete support once cooperation is secured.
• Yan Xianjue: Though absent from the direct negotiation, he remains an important comparison. Lin Shi previously described him as indecisive, while Yan Yi’an suggests that Yan Xianjue’s hesitation may stem from uncertainty over whether to kill Lin Shi.
• The Lin Household: The household is portrayed as cruel and authoritarian. Its willingness to punish disobedient members violently explains Lin Shi’s fear of exposure and motivates his cooperation.

Themes

• Ruthlessness and power: The chapter contrasts Lin Shi’s survival-driven ruthlessness with Yan Yi’an’s controlled, strategic cruelty.
• Coercion and negotiation: Their alliance is built not on trust but on mutual leverage, threats, and carefully calculated benefits.
• Family abuse and control: The Lin Household treats family loyalty as an obligation enforced through violence, exposing the corruption beneath its wealth and status.
• Loyalty beneath cynicism: Lin Shi’s actions show that, despite his mocking attitude, he is willing to take serious risks to protect Yu Bai and others connected to him.
• The unknown and superstition: Lin Shi’s skepticism is challenged as he becomes involved in a plan involving feng shui, metaphysics, and possibly supernatural rules.

Character Interactions

• Yan Yi’an dominates the initial exchange by threatening to expose Lin Shi, forcing him to abandon his performance of indifference.
• Lin Shi and Yan Yi’an trade insults and compliments, but their conversation gradually becomes a business negotiation.
• Lin Shi resists Yan Yi’an’s attempt to obtain the Little Monk, insisting on information sharing instead.
• By the end, they establish a reluctant partnership: Yan Yi’an will provide logistical support and distract Lin Lang, while Lin Shi handles the dangerous operation inside the Lin Household.

Key Plot Points & Events

• Yan Yi'an burns information about Lin Shi to assure him of their alliance.
• Lin Shi discovers Yan Yi'an had people watching him abroad.
• Yan Yi'an warns Lin Shi not to help Yan Xianjue with dangerous projects.
• Lin Shi is given a new driver, Lin Wei, who was involved in a previous car accident with him.
• Lin Shi returns home to meet with his grandfather.

Character Developments

• Yan Yi'an demonstrates his thoroughness and trustworthiness as an ally.
• Lin Shi shows his understanding of Yan Yi'an's capabilities and his own caution.
• Yan Xianjue is shown to be caring towards Shen Fangli and concerned about his second sister's departure.
• Lin Wei displays his enthusiasm and disregard for safety, contrasting with Lin Shi's caution.

Significant Themes

• Trust and alliance: Yan Yi'an and Lin Shi form an alliance, but both are cautious and keep backups.
• Power dynamics: Yan Yi'an's actions show his power and influence, while Lin Shi navigates his position between Yan Yi'an and Yan Xianjue.
• Responsibility and consequences: Yan Yi'an warns Lin Shi about helping Yan Xianjue, highlighting the potential dangers and consequences of their actions.

Character Interactions

• Yan Yi'an and Lin Shi: They establish an alliance, but both remain cautious and keep secrets from each other.
• Lin Shi and Lin Wei: Lin Shi's cautious nature clashes with Lin Wei's reckless driving and enthusiasm.
• Yan Xianjue and Shen Fangli: They express affection and care for each other before Shen Fangli's departure.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yan Xianjue skips school again to see off his second sister, Yan Shan, who is returning to her research institute.
• Zhou Ye tells his classmates the reason for Yan Xianjue's absence to prevent wild speculations.
• The class discusses Ji Xi's involvement in Yan Xianjue's homework, expecting Ji Xi to do it for him.

Character Developments

• Yan Xianjue: Still oblivious to the underlying issues in his family, he focuses on protecting his second sister.
• Zhou Ye: Shows understanding and loyalty by keeping sensitive information about the Yan family private.
• Yan Shan: Reflects on her family's dynamics and expresses concern for Yan Xianjue's lack of awareness.

Significant Themes

• Family dynamics and secrets
• Loyalty and friendship (Zhou Ye's actions)
• Protection and responsibility (Yan Xianjue's concern for his sister)

Character Interactions

• Yan Xianjue and Yan Shan: Share a moment of connection as Yan Shan expresses her worry for him.
• Zhou Ye and his classmates: Discuss Yan Xianjue's absence and the possibility of Ji Xi doing his homework.
• Yan Ci, Yan Wan, and Yan Yi'an: Share a moment of understanding regarding Yan Xianjue's lack of awareness about his family.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yan Shan and the guard return from their annual leave, with the guard relieved to be back at the research institute to avoid Yan Shan's unexpected incidents.
• On the plane, Yan Shan reveals she's considering resigning, causing the guard distress as he fears being questioned about their leave.
• Yan Shan gives the guard a bag of candy as a farewell gift from Yan Xianjue, which turns out to be extremely spicy wasabi candy. She blackmails the guard into eating the entire bag to make Yan Xianjue drop the matter of a previous ginger candy incident.
• Meanwhile, in Beijing, Lin Shi returns home after helping Yan Xianjue with his schoolwork, discussing the future of the Lin Household with Yu Bai.

Character Developments

• Yan Shan: Shows a playful and manipulative side, enjoying the guard's discomfort. Reveals her plan to retire early.
• The guard: Struggles with Yan Shan's unexpected behavior and demands, showing resilience and determination.
• Lin Shi: Demonstrates his intelligence and resourcefulness in handling the Lin Household's affairs and helping Yan Xianjue with schoolwork. Shows a mocking and calculating side when discussing the future with Yu Bai.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and manipulation: Yan Shan manipulates the guard, while Lin Shi and Yu Bai discuss their plans for the Lin Household.
• Resilience and determination: The guard endures Yan Shan's demands, while Lin Shi shows determination in handling his family's affairs.
• The consequences of one's actions: Yan Xianjue's previous prank with ginger candy comes back to haunt the guard, and Lin Shi faces the repercussions of his actions regarding the Lin Household.

Character Interactions

• Yan Shan and the guard: Yan Shan manipulates and teases the guard, while he endures her demands and tries to navigate her unexpected behavior.
• Lin Shi and Yu Bai: The two discuss the future of the Lin Household, showing a mutual understanding and shared goals.
• Yan Xianjue and the guard (indirectly): Yan Xianjue's previous prank with ginger candy comes back to haunt the guard, showing the consequences of his actions and the power dynamics between them.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lin Shi and Yu Bai discuss how to deal with Old Master Lin and the feng shui arrangement proposed by Yan Yi’an. They agree it is worth testing, but Lin Shi must not act personally because exposing him would jeopardize their entire plan.
• They decide to focus on expanding control over a pharmaceutical company while Yan Yi’an keeps Lin Lang occupied. Lin Shi plans to rely on Fifth Uncle, who was assigned to him by Old Master Lin but may now have independent motives because of his daughter.
• To force Fifth Uncle to commit to Lin Shi’s side, Yu Bai proposes spreading rumors—under Lin Lang’s name—that Fifth Uncle’s daughter is being considered for marriage. This would make Fifth Uncle fear losing his daughter and leave him with no choice but to cooperate.
• Lin Shi and Yu Bai discuss sending Little Monk’s information to Yan Yi’an. Little Monk is being held at one of Lin Shi’s villas, and Yu Bai has discovered that his monk certificate is fake. They decide to anonymously send Yan Yi’an the time and location of Little Monk’s next trip abroad, allowing Yan Yi’an to deal with him independently.
• Lin Shi realizes that Yan Xianjue initiated the explosives-related incident but avoided the consequences, leaving Lin Shi and Ji Xi to deal with Yan Yi’an and the resulting fight. He jokingly complains that Yan Xianjue freeloaded.
• After Lin Shi goes to bed, Yu Bai suspects that Lin Shi has concealed the full truth about Yan Yi’an’s threat, recognizing that Lin Shi would not normally submit so easily.
• A lighter subplot follows Yan Xianjue and Shen Fangli laughing over a security officer who was tricked into eating wasabi candy. Yan Xianjue then completes his advanced mathematics homework.
• The next day at school, classmates crowd around Yan Xianjue to borrow his homework. He offers them a choice between the assignment and butter cookies baked by Shen Fangli, making them suspicious that the cookies may be another example of “dark cuisine.”

Character Developments

• Lin Shi remains calculating and ruthless, using the Lin Household’s internal weaknesses against itself. Although he speaks sympathetically about Fifth Uncle’s daughter, he privately remembers that she once mocked him during his abuse, showing that his pity is limited.
• Yu Bai acts as Lin Shi’s protector and strategist. He prioritizes keeping Lin Shi hidden and becomes increasingly suspicious that Lin Shi has not told him everything about Yan Yi’an.
• Fifth Uncle is revealed to be potentially useful but politically cautious. His loyalty has long been tied to protecting his only daughter, making her the leverage Lin Shi and Yu Bai plan to use.
• Yan Yi’an appears interested in feng shui and Little Monk’s master, suggesting connections to mystical practices or hidden networks.
• Little Monk is exposed as possibly fraudulent: his monk certificate is fake, and his master may never have genuinely trusted or accepted him as a disciple.
• Yan Xianjue is portrayed as carefree, academically capable, and mischievous. He avoids the main conflict while still benefiting from it, prompting Lin Shi’s sarcastic resentment.
• Shen Fangli shares Yan Xianjue’s playful sense of humor and encourages his prank involving the wasabi candy.
• Yan Shan is shown as intimidating and emotionally flat, especially through her unsettling storytelling and treatment of the security officer.

Significant Themes

• Manipulation and power: The characters treat family members, business associates, and even innocent relatives as leverage in larger power struggles.
• Distrust and betrayal: Yu Bai’s suspicion of Lin Shi and their unwillingness to trust anyone in the Lin Household emphasize the danger of hidden motives.
• The Lin Household’s cruelty: The family is depicted as a predatory system where vulnerable members are exploited, and suffering is treated as entertainment.
• Protection versus exploitation: Yu Bai tries to protect Lin Shi, while Lin Shi uses the same ruthless tactics that have harmed him to secure their survival.
• Appearances and deception: Fake identities, forged religious credentials, anonymous emails, rumors, and staged information all drive the characters’ plans.
• Comic relief amid danger: The scenes involving Yan Xianjue, Shen Fangli, and the wasabi candy contrast with the darker schemes surrounding the Lin and Yan families.

Character Interactions

• Lin Shi and Yu Bai: They collaborate closely as strategic partners. Yu Bai insists Lin Shi remain hidden, while Lin Shi explains the weaknesses of Fifth Uncle and the Lin Household.
• Lin Shi and Fifth Uncle: Though Fifth Uncle is not present, Lin Shi plans to exploit his dependence on his daughter and his forced political allegiance to Lin Shi.
• Lin Shi and Yan Yi’an: Their relationship is adversarial and indirect. Yan Yi’an has threatened Lin Shi, while Lin Shi plans to manipulate him through anonymous information about Little Monk.
• Lin Shi and Yan Xianjue: Lin Shi views Yan Xianjue as someone who escaped responsibility after provoking the explosives incident, while Yan Xianjue remains unaware of Lin Shi’s irritation.
• Yan Xianjue and Shen Fangli: Their relationship is playful and conspiratorial, centered on pranks, teasing, and shared amusement.
• Yan Xianjue and his classmates: His classmates try to exploit him for homework, but he turns the situation into a teasing test involving either his assignment or Shen Fangli’s suspicious cookies.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yan Xianjue plays a prank on his classmates by making them copy his homework, then revealing he wrote it himself.
• Ji Xi calls Yan Xianjue to discuss transferring Lei Xuan to a different role, as he believes Lei Xuan's skills are better suited for business development.

Character Developments

• Yan Xianjue enjoys teasing his classmates and finds amusement in their reactions, showing his playful and mischievous side.
• Ji Xi demonstrates his dedication and insight by recognizing Lei Xuan's potential in business development.
• Lei Xuan is revealed to have strong emotional intelligence and a willful temper, which he only restrains in a field he likes.

Significant Themes

• The theme of intelligence and its various forms is explored, with Yan Xianjue's classmates demonstrating their lack of academic intelligence but still having the merit to attend Shallow Sea University.
• The importance of recognizing and utilizing one's strengths is highlighted through Ji Xi's recognition of Lei Xuan's potential in business development.

Character Interactions

• Yan Xianjue interacts with his classmates, playing a prank on them and enjoying their reactions.
• Yan Xianjue and Ji Xi discuss Lei Xuan's career direction, with Ji Xi tattling on Lei Xuan's potential and Yan Xianjue considering Ji Xi's suggestion.
• Yan Xianjue and Lei Xuan's dynamic is briefly mentioned, with Yan Xianjue acknowledging Lei Xuan's emotional intelligence and willful temper.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ji Xi asks about a pay raise upon receiving a promotion.
• Yan Xianjue agrees to a small raise, putting Ji Xi in charge of two departments.
• Yan Xianjue inquires about Wang Peter's adaptation, to which Ji Xi reassures him.
• Yan Xianjue considers buying property for employees, but Ji Xi declines.
• Yan Xianjue mentions having an island, suggesting it for a wilderness survival show.
• Shen Fangli learns about the island trip and discusses potential scheduling conflicts.

Character Developments

• Ji Xi shows ambition and initiative by asking for a raise and expressing his willingness to live in the office to minimize travel time.
• Yan Xianjue demonstrates his laid-back and forgetful nature, as well as his generosity, by offering to buy property for employees and suggesting the island for the show.
• Shen Fangli displays her professionalism and responsibility by considering the potential risks and scheduling conflicts related to the island trip.

Significant Themes

• Ambition and initiative (Ji Xi)
• Generosity and forgetfulness (Yan Xianjue)
• Professionalism and responsibility (Shen Fangli)
• Wealth and extravagance (Yan Xianjue's past and current assets)

Character Interactions

• Ji Xi and Yan Xianjue discuss Ji Xi's promotion, pay raise, and Wang Peter's adaptation.
• Yan Xianjue and Ji Xi discuss potential property purchases for employees.
• Yan Xianjue and Shen Fangli discuss the island trip and potential scheduling conflicts.
• Shen Fangli considers the risks and logistics of the island trip, showing her professionalism and thoughtfulness.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shen Fangli moves into an apartment arranged by Yan Xianjue.
• She suggests preparing for a baby right after graduation, but Yan Xianjue insists on getting engaged and married first.
• Shen Fangli plans to attend her roommate's in-game wedding.

Character Developments

• Shen Fangli shows a playful and mischievous side.
• Yan Xianjue reveals his family's traditional views on marriage and pregnancy.
• Yan Ci, Yan Xianjue's brother, is shown to be innovative and generous in supporting esports.

Significant Themes

• The theme of traditional vs. modern views on relationships and family is explored through Yan Xianjue's family's expectations.
• The impact of technology and innovation on society is touched upon through Yan Ci's actions.

Character Interactions

• Shen Fangli and Yan Xianjue's playful banter continues, with Shen Fangli teasing Yan Xianjue about his "cat eyes."
• Yan Xianjue shows support for Shen Fangli's decision to attend her roommate's wedding, understanding her need to maintain her own happiness.
• Yan Xianjue shares a story about Yan Ci, showing his pride in his brother's achievements and their close relationship.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yan Xianjue is surprised by Yan Ci's unwavering passion for esports.
• Yan Xianjue gives Yan Ci a blank check, leading to a humorous exchange.
• Shen Fangli suggests opening an arts entrance exam prep class if the Yan household goes bankrupt.
• Yan Xianjue learns that Zhuang Yushu hasn't accepted any scripts due to waiting for Lei Xuan's costume drama.
• Yan Xianjue receives numerous missed calls and a message from Ji Xi, revealing that Lei Xuan is looking for him.
• Lei Xuan takes Yan Xianjue to the casting site for his costume drama, seeking his help with casting issues.

Character Developments

• Yan Xianjue shows understanding and support towards Yan Ci's passion.
• Shen Fangli demonstrates her wit and humor.
• Yan Xianjue shows concern for Zhuang Yushu's career decisions.
• Lei Xuan exhibits his unique personality, dumping work on Yan Xianjue and seeking his help.

Significant Themes

• Family bonds and support (Yan Xianjue and Yan Ci)
• Career choices and aspirations (Zhuang Yushu, Yan Xianjue)
• Work dynamics and power struggles (Lei Xuan, Yao Weiran, assistant directors)

Character Interactions

• Yan Xianjue and Yan Ci: Brotherly support and understanding.
• Yan Xianjue and Shen Fangli: Friendly banter and shared humor.
• Yan Xianjue and Lei Xuan: Yan Xianjue tries to understand Lei Xuan's concerns, while Lei Xuan seeks Yan Xianjue's help.
• Yan Xianjue and Zhuang Yushu: Yan Xianjue shows concern for Zhuang Yushu's career choices.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yan Xianjue discovers that some directors are deliberately opposing Yao Weiran during auditions.
• He intervenes, stops the auditions, and calls for a meeting to address the issue.
• Yan Xianjue accuses the directors of discriminating against actors from Pear Garden Families and not understanding their roles as assistant directors.

Character Developments

• Yan Xianjue: Shows his authoritative side, defending Yao Weiran and the fairness of the casting process. He demonstrates that he's not as hands-off as previously thought.
• Yao Weiran: Proves his professionalism by reciting the responsibilities of an assistant director accurately. He gains Yan Xianjue's support.
• Directors: Reveal their bias and lack of understanding of their roles, leading to a confrontation with Yan Xianjue.

Significant Themes

• Fairness and Equality: Yan Xianjue emphasizes the importance of fair casting processes, free from discrimination against actors from certain families.
• Responsibility and Accountability: Yan Xianjue holds the directors accountable for their actions and understanding of their roles.

Character Interactions

• Yan Xianjue and Yao Weiran: Yan Xianjue supports Yao Weiran, showing trust in his abilities and willingness to back him up.
• Yan Xianjue and the Directors: Yan Xianjue confronts the directors, challenging their bias and lack of understanding.
• Yao Weiran and the Directors: Yao Weiran remains professional and calm in the face of the directors' bias, gaining Yan Xianjue's respect.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yan Xianjue attends a production meeting to address issues and assert his authority.
• He reprimands the assistant directors, Yao Weiran and Lei Xuan, for not maintaining control over the production.
• Yan Xianjue suggests sending Yao Weiran for special training at Yan Corporation to improve his leadership skills.
• An actor auditions for a role, impressing Yan Xianjue with his performance.

Character Developments

• Yan Xianjue: Demonstrates his leadership and authority, showing he's more than just a young president relying on his family's influence.
• Yao Weiran: Realizes the need to assert his authority and considers seeking further training to improve his skills.
• Lei Xuan: Struggles with his role as an assistant director and is overwhelmed by the responsibility.
• Actor (unnamed): Proves his talent and potential, catching Yan Xianjue's attention.

Significant Themes

• Leadership and authority
• Growth and development of young professionals
• Talent recognition and opportunity

Character Interactions

• Yan Xianjue and Yao Weiran/Lei Xuan: Yan Xianjue reprimands Yao Weiran and Lei Xuan for their lack of control over the production, but ultimately supports them by offering guidance and resources.
• Yan Xianjue and Actor: Yan Xianjue is impressed by the actor's performance and offers him a contract on the spot, showing his support for new talent.
• Zhuang Yushu and Yan Xianjue: Zhuang Yushu teases Yan Xianjue about his supposed infatuation with Shen Fangli, to which Yan Xianjue responds defensively.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yan Xianjue receives a contract from Ji Xi, which he finds unreasonable.
• An actor, Yao Weiran, auditions for a role in an upcoming drama.
• Yan Xianjue decides to sign Yao Weiran despite the abruptness of the situation.
• An assistant director tries to curry favor with Yan Xianjue by mentioning Yao Weiran's connection to Shen Fangli.
• Yan Xianjue scolds the assistant director for his lack of boundaries and self-awareness.
• Yan Xianjue watches the remaining auditions, growing increasingly displeased with the assistant director's interference.
• Yan Xianjue and Lei Xuan discuss the suitable actor and the script's requirements.

Character Developments

• Yan Xianjue displays his authority and displeasure with the assistant director's behavior.
• Yao Weiran shows professionalism and willingness to learn from Yan Xianjue's criticism.
• Lei Xuan demonstrates his understanding of the script and the industry, despite his initial laziness.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics between Yan Xianjue and his employees.
• The importance of professionalism and boundaries in the workplace.
• The challenges of finding suitable talent for a production.

Character Interactions

• Yan Xianjue and Lei Xuan work together to decide on an actor for the role.
• Yan Xianjue scolds the assistant director for his inappropriate behavior.
• Yao Weiran interacts with Yan Xianjue, showing deference and respect for his opinion.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yan Xianjue and Lei Xuan discuss the plot of a drama, with Yan Xianjue questioning the lack of romance and Lei Xuan defending the story's focus on power struggles.
• Yao Weiran selects three actors for further consideration, including Yan Xianjue.
• Lei Xuan invites Yan Xianjue to dinner, but Yan Xianjue declines to go home for dinner with his family instead.
• Yan Yi'an lectures Yan Xianjue about managing employees with different personalities, using Lei Xuan's case as an example.
• Yan Ci overhears the conversation and shares a story about a catfish in his team, which Yan Yi'an uses as another example.

Character Developments

• Yan Xianjue: Shows curiosity about the drama's plot and expresses his desire for a romance subplot. He also demonstrates his responsibility as a CEO by managing his employees' personalities.
• Lei Xuan: Reveals his carefree and whimsical nature, which Yan Yi'an advises Yan Xianjue to manage appropriately.
• Yan Yi'an: Acts as a mentor to Yan Xianjue, providing guidance on managing employees with different personalities.
• Yan Ci: Shares a story from his past, showing his willingness to participate in family discussions despite his initial reluctance.

Significant Themes

• The importance of understanding and managing different personalities in a team or workplace.
• The balance between work and personal life, as seen in Yan Xianjue's decision to go home for dinner.

Character Interactions

• Yan Xianjue and Lei Xuan: Discuss the drama's plot, with Yan Xianjue questioning the lack of romance and Lei Xuan defending the story's focus on power struggles.
• Yan Xianjue and Yan Yi'an: Yan Yi'an lectures Yan Xianjue about managing employees with different personalities, using Lei Xuan's case as an example.
• Yan Ci and Yan Yi'an: Yan Ci overhears the conversation and shares a story from his past, showing his willingness to participate in family discussions.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yan Ci and Yan Xianjue argue about Yan Xianjue's indulgent management style.
• Yan Wan enters and finds Yan Xianjue accidentally covering Yan Ci's mouth and nose.
• Yan Yi'an suggests finding a new general manager for the entertainment company to ease Ji Xi's workload.
• Yan Wan explains the differences between entertainment and investment companies, hinting at the challenges of finding a suitable replacement for Ji Xi.

Character Developments

• Yan Xianjue: Struggles with managing his employees, relies on known plot points for career development, and occasionally displays immature behavior.
• Yan Ci: Shows frustration with Yan Xianjue's management style and lack of responsibility.
• Yan Yi'an: Offers practical solutions to Yan Xianjue's problems but is often ineffective due to Yan Xianjue's reluctance to change.
• Yan Wan: Understands the complexities of the entertainment industry and offers insightful advice to Yan Xianjue.

Significant Themes

• Responsibility and accountability in management.
• The challenges of finding and nurturing competent employees.
• The importance of adaptability in business.

Character Interactions

• Yan Ci and Yan Xianjue: Sibling rivalry and bickering, with Yan Ci often criticizing Yan Xianjue's lack of responsibility.
• Yan Xianjue and Yan Wan: Yan Xianjue seeks guidance from Yan Wan, who offers practical advice and understanding.
• Yan Yi'an and Yan Xianjue: Yan Yi'an tries to help Yan Xianjue but struggles due to Yan Xianjue's reluctance to change.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yan Xianjue complains to his siblings about feeling pressured by Lei Xuan.
• Yan Yi'an decides to send Yan Corporation's special assistant to help Yan Xianjue manage Random Entertainment and pressure Lei Xuan.
• Yan Xianjue discusses the plot of Shen Fangli's upcoming drama with his siblings.
• Yan Ci and Yan Wan express concern for the general character's suffering, but Yan Xianjue dismisses it as necessary for profitability.
• Lei Xuan struggles with revising his proposal under the special assistant's scrutiny and seeks help from his father, Boss Lei.

Character Developments

• Yan Xianjue: Shows his capitalist mindset, prioritizing profit over character well-being in dramas.
• Lei Xuan: Struggles with work and seeks help from his father, showing vulnerability and a desire to improve.
• Boss Lei: Provides guidance to Lei Xuan, encouraging him to take his career seriously and not rely on others' investments.

Significant Themes

• The importance of hard work and taking responsibility for one's actions.
• The consequences of relying on others and not taking one's career seriously.
• The capitalist mindset and its impact on creative works.

Character Interactions

• Yan Xianjue and his siblings: They discuss the drama's plot and express their opinions, showing a close sibling bond.
• Lei Xuan and Boss Lei: They have a heart-to-heart conversation, with Boss Lei providing guidance and encouragement to Lei Xuan.
• Yan Xianjue and Lei Xuan (indirectly): Yan Xianjue's actions, through the special assistant, put pressure on Lei Xuan, causing him to seek help from his father.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Boss Lei (Lei Xuan's father) helps Lei Xuan revise a proposal.
• A special assistant arrives, sent by Yan Yi'an (President Yan), to evaluate Lei Xuan's work.
• Lei Xuan is challenged to improve his performance; the special assistant implies that he will stay until Lei Xuan shows significant improvement.

Character Developments

• Lei Xuan: Struggles with responsibility and work ethic, but shows signs of growth when he takes the special assistant's criticism seriously.
• Boss Lei: Shows concern for Lei Xuan's future, hinting at his desire for Lei Xuan to mature and take on more responsibility.

Significant Themes

• Responsibility: Lei Xuan's struggle with taking responsibility for his actions and work.
• Growth and Maturity: The theme of growing up and taking on more responsibility, as seen through Boss Lei's interactions with Lei Xuan.

Character Interactions

• Lei Xuan and Boss Lei: Their interaction shows a mix of exasperation, affection, and concern, highlighting their father-son relationship.
• Lei Xuan and the Special Assistant: Their interaction is tense at first, but they reach an understanding, with the special assistant challenging Lei Xuan to improve.
• Lei Xuan and Yan Xianjue (implied): Their relationship is strained, with Lei Xuan feeling unappreciated and Yan Xianjue seemingly taking advantage of Lei Xuan's skills without acknowledging his efforts.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lei Xuan refuses to provoke Yan Yi’an, recognizing the danger of angering the notoriously vindictive Yan family.
• Unknown to Lei Xuan, Yan Yi’an listens to his entire conversation and proposal through a video conference connected to the special assistant’s computer. Yan Yi’an concludes that Lei Xuan likely received help from his biological father, Boss Lei.
• Yan Yi’an orders his special assistant to pressure Lei Xuan, but not excessively, warning that Yan Xianjue may retaliate if Lei Yi’an goes too far.
• Yan Yi’an prepares to travel abroad with Yan Wan and instructs the special assistant to manage affairs in his absence. The assistant is also told to consult Yan Xianjue if necessary.
• Yan Yi’an suspects that the Lin Household is preparing to activate a feng shui formation believed to prolong life. The recent arrival of botanists and landscaping companies suggests that Old Master Lin is taking the formation seriously.
• Because Yan Corporation employees and other powerful figures may attempt to seize the formation or exploit the situation, Yan Yi’an arranges pinhole cameras and uses the trip as a test of their loyalty. He regards this as his final trial before transitioning from president to chairman.
• Yan Wan hires mercenaries for protection abroad. Their communication problems with the accompanying monk create a series of comic misunderstandings. When the mercenaries cannot understand the monk, one threatens him with a gun, only to be reprimanded by their leader for behaving like a movie cliché.

Character Developments

• Yan Yi’an demonstrates strategic caution and control. He manipulates Lei Xuan indirectly, anticipates threats from the Lin Household and Yan Corporation, and prepares multiple contingency plans.
• The special assistant remains loyal but resentful of being left to handle danger and responsibility alone. He accepts Yan Yi’an’s orders and learns that Yan Xianjue, rather than Yan Wan, is the designated backup.
• Lei Xuan is shown to be cautious rather than reckless. Although he presents a proposal, he secretly seeks help from his biological father and avoids directly confronting Yan Yi’an’s people.
• Yan Wan proves capable and confident in managing mercenaries and logistical problems, though her confidence occasionally masks chaotic circumstances.
• Old Master Lin is revealed to be deeply invested in the life-prolonging feng shui formation and may be preparing to act on it.
• The monk is placed in an absurdly dangerous and confusing situation as he attempts to locate the formation with a compass.

Significant Themes

• Power, inheritance, and bloodlines: The chapter humorously questions why powerful families inherit vindictiveness and troublesome traits instead of useful abilities.
• Strategic manipulation and surveillance: Yan Yi’an relies on observation, hidden cameras, indirect pressure, and contingency planning rather than open confrontation.
• Greed and betrayal: Wealth and the promise of prolonged life tempt older employees and powerful families to betray established loyalties.
• The transition of power: Yan Yi’an’s upcoming trip serves as a final test before he moves from president to chairman, forcing him to manage threats without his father’s assistance.
• Cultural and linguistic confusion: The monk’s inability to communicate with foreign mercenaries produces comedy while highlighting the impracticality of mixing supernatural or traditional practices with modern security methods.

Character Interactions

• Lei Xuan and Yan Yi’an’s special assistant clash indirectly, with Lei Xuan maintaining extreme distance out of fear of Yan Yi’an.
• Yan Yi’an and the special assistant discuss the Lei family, the Lin Household, corporate threats, and the assistant’s responsibilities during Yan Yi’an’s absence.
• Yan Yi’an makes clear that Yan Xianjue remains a dangerous force whose intervention must be avoided.
• Yan Wan negotiates with the mercenaries and defends their professionalism, while Yan Yi’an questions her hiring choices.
• The mercenary team repeatedly misunderstands the monk’s role, culminating in an exaggerated gun threat that their leader immediately condemns.
• The chapter ends with Yan Yi’an humorously lamenting that trouble continues to follow him despite escaping the complications surrounding Yan Ci and Yan Xianjue.