Ch. 181The Slacker Unveils

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Li Wenchuan's group decides to explore further while Han Shiye's group stays to uncover the truth.
  • Li Wenchuan's group encounters a ghost, which they catch and force to lead them to Song Xueling.
  • They find Song Xueling burning joss paper at the senior-year teaching building, where she reveals that Yin Shujing is still present but invisible.
  • Li Wenchuan deduces two possible truths about Yin Shujing's situation.
  • Han Shiye and Zhong Zijun discuss her past, leading to a revelation about Zhong Zijun's transfer to their school.

Character Developments

  • Li Wenchuan demonstrates his strategic and unconventional thinking, catching the ghost to aid their search for Song Xueling.
  • Xie Yuan shows quick thinking and bravery by catching the ghost, earning praise from Tang Jingran and Li Wenchuan.
  • Song Xueling reveals her guilt and fear regarding Yin Shujing's situation.
  • Zhong Zijun shares a past incident that led to her transfer, hinting at her strong-willed and assertive nature.

Significant Themes

  • The theme of truth-seeking is prominent, with both groups attempting to uncover the final truth about Yin Shujing's situation.
  • The theme of guilt and redemption is explored through Song Xueling's actions and Zhong Zijun's revelation about her past.

Character Interactions

  • Li Wenchuan's group works together to catch the ghost and find Song Xueling, showcasing their unity and unconventional problem-solving skills.
  • Han Shiye and Zhong Zijun share a moment of trust and understanding as they discuss her past, strengthening their bond.
  • The production team's frustration and helplessness are evident as Li Wenchuan's group continually subverts their planned horror segments.

Ch. 182Chasing Ghosts as a Slacker (Second Update)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Li Wenchuan recognizes Zhong Zijun's handwriting on a note given to Song Xueling.
  • Tang Jingran and Xie Yuan reveal they obtained the note by catching Yin Shujing, who was driven to suicide by Zhong Zijun.
  • Li Wenchuan deduces Zhong Zijun's psychological state and her role in Yin Shujing's death.
  • Zhong Zijun chases Han Shiye and Tan Sisi with a rope as punishment for losing the game.
  • Han Shiye and Tan Sisi lead Zhong Zijun towards Li Wenchuan, Tang Jingran, and Xie Yuan.

Character Developments

  • Li Wenchuan demonstrates his observational and deductive skills, piecing together the truth about Zhong Zijun and Yin Shujing.
  • Zhong Zijun's mental instability is further emphasized as she chases Han Shiye and Tan Sisi.
  • Han Shiye and Tan Sisi show cowardice and desperation in the face of danger, leading their pursuer towards others.

Significant Themes

  • The dangers of obsession and mental instability, as exemplified by Zhong Zijun's actions.
  • The consequences of one's actions and the cycle of vengeance, as seen in the game's punishment for losers.

Character Interactions

  • Li Wenchuan, Tang Jingran, and Xie Yuan work together to deduce the truth and confront Zhong Zijun.
  • Han Shiye and Tan Sisi prioritize their own safety over that of others, leading Zhong Zijun towards the other guests.
  • Zhong Zijun's fear of Li Wenchuan, Tang Jingran, and Xie Yuan is evident as she flees from them.

Ch. 183The Slacker's Ending (Double Chapter)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Yin Shujing, an introverted and soft-spoken student, faces bullying from Zhong Zijun, a new transfer student with excellent grades and a cheerful demeanor.
  • Zhong Zijun accuses Yin Shujing of imitating her and has a public outburst in the homeroom teacher's office.
  • Yin Shujing's belongings are tampered with, and she seeks help from her homeroom teacher, Wen Qi, who brushes off her concerns.
  • Song Xueling, a classmate, witnesses Zhong Zijun going through Yin Shujing's desk and offers to walk her home.
  • Yin Shujing jumps off the school building during evening self-study, leading to Zhong Zijun fainting and the class speculating about the cause.

Character Developments

  • Yin Shujing: Struggles with her introverted nature and lack of confidence. She faces bullying from Zhong Zijun and feels unheard and unsupported by her homeroom teacher and parents. Her mental state deteriorates, leading her to take her own life.
  • Zhong Zijun: Initially portrayed as a cheerful and excellent student, she exhibits signs of mental instability and targets Yin Shujing with jealousy and bullying. Her actions lead to Yin Shujing's suicide, and she faints upon hearing the news.
  • Wen Qi (Homeroom Teacher): Seems to favor students with good grades and dismisses Yin Shujing's concerns about Zhong Zijun's bullying, contributing to Yin Shujing's feelings of despair.

Significant Themes

  • Bullying and its consequences: The story highlights the devastating effects of bullying on the victim, leading to Yin Shujing's suicide.
  • Mental health: Yin Shujing's introverted nature and lack of support contribute to her mental deterioration, ultimately leading to her tragic decision.
  • The role of authority figures: Wen Qi's failure to intervene and support Yin Shujing has severe consequences, illustrating the importance of authority figures in preventing such tragedies.

Character Interactions

  • Yin Shujing and Zhong Zijun: The main conflict revolves around Zhong Zijun's jealousy and bullying of Yin Shujing, which escalates to the point of driving Yin Shujing to suicide.
  • Yin Shujing and Wen Qi: Yin Shujing seeks help from her homeroom teacher but feels unsupported and dismissed, exacerbating her feelings of despair.
  • Song Xueling and Yin Shujing: Song Xueling witnesses Zhong Zijun's actions and offers support to Yin Shujing, but it's too little too late to prevent the tragedy.

Ch. 184Salted Fish, Falling Blossoms

Key Plot Points and Events

  • The livestream of the school bullying case ends, with the truth about Yin Shujing's death revealed.
  • Li Wenchuan and Han Shiye have a brief interaction after the livestream, with Han Shiye expressing his determination to surpass Li Wenchuan.
  • Li Wenchuan receives a call from his parents, who are impressed with his performance but criticize his lack of leadership abilities.
  • Xie Yuan's crew faces a venue issue, leading to a change of location to Xie Yuan's brother's company. Xie Yun, Xie Yuan's brother, joins the crew as the fourth male lead.

Character Developments

  • Li Wenchuan remains calm and collected after the livestream, showing no signs of being affected by the truth about Yin Shujing's death.
  • Han Shiye is driven by a desire to surpass Li Wenchuan, showing a competitive streak.
  • Xie Yun displays his dominance and wealth, changing the script to fit his vision and treating the original fourth male lead generously.

Significant Themes

  • The truth vs. perception: The livestream reveals the truth about Yin Shujing's death, challenging the audience's initial perceptions.
  • Wealth and power: Xie Yun's display of wealth and dominance highlights the influence of money and power in society.

Character Interactions

  • Li Wenchuan and Han Shiye have a brief interaction after the livestream, with Han Shiye expressing his desire to surpass Li Wenchuan.
  • Xie Yuan and Xie Yun interact, with Xie Yun changing the script to fit his vision and treating the original fourth male lead generously.
  • Li Wenchuan, Xie Yuan, and Tang Jingran interact on the filming set, with Li Wenchuan and Tang Jingran witnessing Xie Yun's dominance and wealth.

Ch. 185Salted Fish Morality (Double Chapter)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Xie Yun becomes the biggest financial backer of Ode of Mountains and Rivers, showering Li Wenchuan with cash.
  • The drama's promotional photos and cast cause speculation and criticism online.
  • Before airing, Ode of Mountains and Rivers faces baseless rumors and victim-blaming theories about Li Wenchuan.
  • The drama finally airs, and Li Wenchuan's character, the God Venerable, is revealed to be a ruthless, villainous figure, much different from the expected moral paragon.

Character Developments

  • Li Wenchuan: Struggles with the absurdity of the entertainment industry and the expectations placed upon him.
  • Xie Yun: Shows his ambition and manipulative nature by becoming the financial backer of the drama.
  • The God Venerable (Li Wenchuan's character): Transforms from a moral paragon to a ruthless, angst-ridden villain driven by guilt and love for Mountain Sparrow.

Significant Themes

  • The dark side of the entertainment industry and the manipulation of public opinion.
  • The contrast between expectations and reality, and the consequences of subverting those expectations.
  • The power of storytelling to challenge and subvert norms and expectations.

Character Interactions

  • Li Wenchuan and Xie Yun: Their interaction highlights Xie Yun's manipulative nature and Li Wenchuan's discomfort with it.
  • Li Wenchuan and the online haters: Their expectations and criticisms of Li Wenchuan are subverted by his character's actions in the drama.
  • The God Venerable and the Devil Venerable: Their dynamic showcases the God Venerable's ruthless pursuit of his goals and his guilt over his past actions.

Ch. 186Salty Fish Smokescreen

Key Plot Points and Events

  • The God Venerable, now freed from the Heavenly Dao, continues his search for Mountain Sparrow.
  • The cultivation world seeks his help to deal with an otherworldly expert.
  • In the mortal world, demons have gone into hiding, and life is peaceful.
  • The viewers notice that the God Venerable punishes the male lead whenever he mistreats the female lead.

Character Developments

  • The God Venerable's character is further explored, showing his ruthlessness and unpredictability, yet also his concern for the female lead.
  • The male lead's character is criticized by viewers, who prefer the God Venerable's character.

Significant Themes

  • The theme of duality is reinforced, with the God Venerable being both a terrifying villain and a protective figure for the female lead.
  • The power dynamics between characters are explored, with the God Venerable holding significant influence over the male lead.

Character Interactions

  • The God Venerable's interactions with the female lead show his protective nature, while his interactions with the male lead demonstrate his disdain and punishment.
  • Jiang Hansheng and Li Wenchuan's interactions show their comfortable and familiar relationship, despite the tension caused by the fanfiction.

Additional Notes

  • The fanfiction, "I Say No," continues to gain popularity, with readers discussing and sharing it secretly due to its sensitive nature.
  • The fanfiction explores various scenarios involving Jiang Hansheng and Li Wenchuan, further popularizing their CP among fans.

Ch. 187Salty Fish Kitchen

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng's living arrangement sparks netizen curiosity and speculation.
  • He Meng and Yang Xuan get into trouble due to alcohol and are rescued by Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng.
  • Li Wenchuan joins the variety show "Every Day of the Children," with Jiang Hansheng also participating.
  • The show's guests include Han Shiye, He Siyu, and Zhou Ruoqi, each showcasing their daily lives.

Character Developments

  • Li Wenchuan demonstrates his cooking skills, indicating a more domestic side to his persona.
  • Jiang Hansheng shows vulnerability and discomfort when Li Wenchuan cooks, hinting at his insecurities or fears.

Significant Themes

  • The impact of celebrity personas and public perception.
  • The influence of reality shows on public opinion and fan behavior.
  • The exploration of domestic life and relationships among celebrities.

Character Interactions

  • Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng's dynamic continues to develop, with Li Wenchuan taking on a more nurturing role.
  • Han Shiye, He Siyu, and Zhou Ruoqi's interactions with Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng add tension and competition, as well as a contrast in lifestyles and values.
  • He Meng and Yang Xuan's incident highlights their irresponsibility as managers and their lack of awareness about Li Wenchuan's personal life.

Ch. 188Idle Alchemy

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Li Wenchuan attempts to cook dinner, causing a small fire in the kitchen.
  • The production crew watches from a distance, unsure of what's happening.
  • Li Wenchuan's father calls, inviting them to dinner at his place.

Character Developments

  • Li Wenchuan: Shows his eccentric cooking methods, causing concern and amusement.
  • Jiang Hansheng: Displays concern for Li Wenchuan's safety and well-being, showing his affection.
  • Li Zhengyuan: Maintains his composure and image as an industry elite, inviting them for dinner.

Significant Themes

  • Brotherhood and camaraderie between Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng.
  • The contrast between Li Wenchuan's eccentric behavior and his father's composed demeanor.
  • The power dynamics and connections within the entertainment and fashion industries.

Character Interactions

  • Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng: Their dynamic shows a deep understanding and affection for each other.
  • Li Wenchuan and Li Zhengyuan: Their interaction reveals the contrast between Li Wenchuan's eccentricity and his father's composure.
  • The production crew and Li Wenchuan: The crew watches Li Wenchuan's antics with a mix of concern, amusement, and awe.

Ch. 189Slacker's Marriage Hunt (Combined Chapter)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Li Mingyu stages a marriage hunt, pretending to be looking for love on a live-streamed show.
  • Li Wenchuan and Li Mingyu's interactions are awkward and embarrassing, with Li Wenchuan praising Li Mingyu's achievements to find him a partner.
  • Liang Meng and Li Zhengyuan watch the live-stream, feeling embarrassed and angry at Li Mingyu's behavior.

Character Developments

  • Li Mingyu shows his determination to find a partner, though his methods are unconventional and embarrassing.
  • Li Wenchuan struggles with his feelings for Jiang Hansheng, trying to show affection without being too obvious.
  • Jiang Hansheng remains calm and collected throughout the awkward situation, showing his maturity and patience.
  • Liang Meng and Li Zhengyuan's relationship remains strained, with Liang Meng still holding a grudge against Li Zhengyuan.

Significant Themes

  • The pressure to marry and have children, especially for the Li Family's status and legacy.
  • The awkwardness and embarrassment of expressing one's feelings, especially in public or unconventional settings.
  • The tension and unresolved issues between Liang Meng and Li Zhengyuan.

Character Interactions

  • Li Wenchuan and Li Mingyu's interactions are awkward and embarrassing, with Li Wenchuan trying to help Li Mingyu find a partner while also expressing his own feelings for Jiang Hansheng.
  • Jiang Hansheng remains calm and collected, showing his understanding and patience with Li Wenchuan's feelings.
  • Liang Meng and Li Zhengyuan's interactions are strained, with Liang Meng still holding a grudge against Li Zhengyuan and Li Zhengyuan feeling helpless and frustrated.

Ch. 190A Billion for a Salted Fish

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Li Wenchuan brings wooden chopsticks for Jiang Hansheng, causing a stir online due to the previous incident with ivory chopsticks.
  • Li Zhengyuan, Li Wenchuan's father, offers Jiang Hansheng a hundred million to leave Li Wenchuan, which Jiang Hansheng refuses, leading to a tense moment at the dinner table.
  • Li Zhengyuan eventually accepts their relationship, welcoming Jiang Hansheng to the family.
  • The incident passes without causing a stir online, leaving He Meng and Yang Xuan, the managers, confused and concerned.

Character Developments

  • Li Wenchuan: Stands up for his relationship with Jiang Hansheng, showing his determination and love.
  • Jiang Hansheng: Maintains his composure under pressure from Li Zhengyuan, demonstrating his resilience and commitment to their relationship.
  • Li Zhengyuan: Initially opposed to their relationship but ultimately accepts it, showing his love and support for his son.
  • He Meng and Yang Xuan: Struggle to understand the lack of public reaction to the incident, reflecting their inexperience in managing high-profile relationships.

Significant Themes

  • Love and acceptance: The theme of love and acceptance is explored through Li Zhengyuan's initial opposition and eventual acceptance of Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng's relationship.
  • Public perception and privacy: The lack of public reaction to the incident highlights the theme of public perception and privacy, as the couple's relationship is not widely acknowledged or discussed.

Character Interactions

  • Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng: Their interactions at the dinner table, including Li Wenchuan's public displays of affection and Jiang Hansheng's refusal of Li Zhengyuan's offer, strengthen their bond and demonstrate their commitment to each other.
  • Li Zhengyuan and Jiang Hansheng: Their tense interaction at the dinner table highlights the power dynamics between them and the challenges Jiang Hansheng faces in pursuing his relationship with Li Wenchuan.
  • He Meng and Yang Xuan: Their confusion and concern over the lack of public reaction to the incident reflect their inexperience and the unique challenges of managing high-profile relationships in the entertainment industry.

Ch. 191A Couch Potato Like This

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng's dinner conversation is brief and uneventful.
  • The production crew suggests they visit a friend for the next livestream to generate buzz.
  • Li Wenchuan decides to livestream from Kyoto University, where he has been conducting research.

Character Developments

  • Li Wenchuan: Shows interest in academia, specifically Qing Dynasty research, and is respected by his former classmate and advisor.
  • Jiang Hansheng: Supports Li Wenchuan's decision to livestream from Kyoto University.

Significant Themes

  • The tension between the entertainment industry and academia.
  • The public's skepticism towards celebrities' claimed academic achievements.

Character Interactions

  • Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng: They discuss and decide together about the livestream location, showing a harmonious relationship.
  • Li Wenchuan and his former classmate: They exchange messages about Li Wenchuan's research, indicating mutual respect and collaboration.
  • Netizens: They express curiosity, skepticism, and criticism about Li Wenchuan's decision to livestream from Kyoto University.

Ch. 192Salted Fish Misunderstanding (Second Update)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • The variety show participants and audience speculate about Li Wenchuan's mother's identity and why she's never appeared, leading to conspiracy theories.
  • He Siyu travels to the U.S. for business, expressing disdain for Li Wenchuan's eccentricity.
  • Han Shiye suspects Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng have a secret relationship or are asexual after watching Li Wenchuan's livestream.
  • Zhou Ruoqi visits her boyfriend's family, defending Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng's sincerity against her boyfriend's suspicions.
  • Bai Lu's assistant gossips about Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng's lack of interest in women, suggesting they might be impotent.

Character Developments

  • Li Wenchuan: Maintains his enigmatic and alluring persona, fueling speculations about his mother and personal life.
  • Jiang Hansheng: Starts to see Li Wenchuan in a new light after reading online novels, leading to internal conflict.
  • He Siyu: Displays disdain for Li Wenchuan's eccentricity and desire to expose his true nature.
  • Han Shiye: Becomes increasingly paranoid and convinced that Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng share a secret.
  • Zhou Ruoqi: Remains innocent and trusting, defending Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng's sincerity against her boyfriend's suspicions.
  • Bai Lu: Feels hurt and insulted by her assistant's gossip about Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng's lack of interest in women.

Significant Themes

  • Speculation and misinterpretation of others' actions and intentions.
  • The blurred line between public and private personas in the entertainment industry.
  • The impact of online culture and gossip on public perception.

Character Interactions

  • Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng: Their interactions fuel speculations about a secret relationship or shared illness.
  • He Siyu and Li Wenchuan: He Siyu expresses disdain for Li Wenchuan's eccentricity and desire to expose him.
  • Zhou Ruoqi and her boyfriend: Zhou Ruoqi defends Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng's sincerity against her boyfriend's suspicions.
  • Bai Lu and her assistant: Bai Lu feels hurt by her assistant's gossip about Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng's lack of interest in women.

Ch. 193Slacker Kyoto

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Bai Lu, Li Wenchuan's assistant, discusses the possibility of Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng's relationship being a publicity stunt, but Bai Lu dismisses the idea.
  • Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng arrive at Kyoto University, where Li Wenchuan is recognized and allowed entry without question.
  • They attend an academic exchange seminar, and Li Wenchuan is introduced as a former student of Professor Liao, who is proud of Li Wenchuan's understanding of Qing Dynasty history and culture.

Character Developments

  • Bai Lu shows concern for Li Wenchuan's career and warns him against the entertainment industry's pitfalls.
  • Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng are surprised to learn that the original Li Wenchuan had a deep understanding of Qing Dynasty history and culture, and had even argued with a professor about a poem attributed to Jiang Yan.

Significant Themes

  • The influence of wealth and status on relationships and decisions.
  • The power of knowledge and expertise in academic circles.
  • The tension between Li Wenchuan's past and present lives.

Character Interactions

  • Bai Lu and Li Wenchuan discuss the possibility of their relationship being a publicity stunt.
  • Gao Chen, a former classmate of Li Wenchuan, shares memories of Li Wenchuan's academic prowess with Jiang Hansheng.
  • Professor Liao, Li Wenchuan's former teacher, recognizes and welcomes Li Wenchuan at the seminar.

Ch. 194A Saltfish Underwater (Second Update)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Li Wenchuan attends Kyoto University's academic exchange conference with Professor Liao and his team.
  • Li Wenchuan's presence sparks controversy and speculation on social media.
  • The production crew is allowed to film Li Wenchuan and the stage discreetly.
  • Xia Jue, a student of Professor Liao, confronts Li Wenchuan, questioning his qualifications and intentions.
  • Li Wenchuan remains composed and starts reviewing the presentation materials.
  • Xia Jue runs into an old acquaintance who taunts him about Li Wenchuan's presence and his own academic pursuits.

Character Developments

  • Li Wenchuan: Maintains his composure and professionalism in the face of criticism and provocation. Demonstrates his dedication to research by immediately reviewing the presentation materials.
  • Xia Jue: Struggles with jealousy and resentment towards Li Wenchuan, displaying an immature and impulsive attitude. His actions reveal his insecurities about his own academic abilities and path.
  • Professor Liao: Shows support for Li Wenchuan, defending him against Xia Jue's accusations. He acknowledges Xia Jue's potential but expresses concern about his behavior.

Significant Themes

  • Academic Integrity vs. Fame: The chapter explores the tension between academic integrity and the pursuit of fame, with some characters questioning Li Wenchuan's motives and qualifications.
  • Jealousy and Insecurity: Xia Jue's behavior is driven by jealousy and insecurity, highlighting the destructive nature of these emotions in academic and professional settings.
  • Mentorship and Guidance: Professor Liao's actions demonstrate the importance of mentorship and guidance in shaping young academics' attitudes and behaviors.

Character Interactions

  • Li Wenchuan and Xia Jue: Their interaction highlights the contrast between Li Wenchuan's calm professionalism and Xia Jue's impulsive, jealous behavior.
  • Professor Liao and Xia Jue: Their dynamic showcases Professor Liao's concern for Xia Jue's development, as well as his support for Li Wenchuan.
  • Xia Jue and his old acquaintance: Their encounter underscores Xia Jue's insecurities and the impact of his behavior on his reputation.

Ch. 195Slacker University

Key plot points and events

  • A flashback reveals that Qu Jie sabotaged Xia Jue’s attempt to contact a Kyoto University professor by deleting the professor’s email. The discovery led to a fight and a formal warning for Qu Jie; he was barred from applying to Kyoto University and later entered another university through connections.
  • In the present, Qu Jie taunts Xia Jue about being undervalued by his adviser. Li Wenchuan intervenes, warning that public attention could expose Qu Jie and his controversial adviser. Qu Jie backs down and leaves.
  • Xia Jue dismisses Li Wenchuan’s intervention, but quietly thanks him.
  • While Li Wenchuan is away from the camera, viewers speculate about his education, comparing him unfavorably with his accomplished family.
  • Li Wenchuan then gives a polished, compelling lecture on Qing history. He discusses Jiang Yan, a powerful minister long suspected of wrongdoing, and explains how Qing Yingzong eventually recognized his integrity and restored his honor.

Character developments and interactions

  • Xia Jue is shown as principled and deeply hurt by Qu Jie’s betrayal. Though he resists Li Wenchuan’s help, his quiet thanks suggests he recognizes it.
  • Qu Jie is exposed as opportunistic and resentful, willing to sabotage a roommate’s prospects. He retreats when confronted with the risk of public scrutiny.
  • Li Wenchuan proves both socially perceptive and academically capable: he protects Xia Jue from Qu Jie, then delivers a confident, insightful lecture that overturns viewers’ low expectations.
  • The online audience shifts from gossiping about Li Wenchuan’s education to being impressed by his command of history.

Significant themes

  • Ambition versus integrity: Qu Jie’s self-serving tactics contrast with Xia Jue’s seriousness and Jiang Yan’s eventual vindication.
  • Reputation and public judgment: Qu Jie fears what exposure might reveal, while Jiang Yan’s story shows how suspicion can distort a person’s legacy.
  • Underestimation and hidden ability: Viewers assume Li Wenchuan lacks education, but his lecture challenges their assumptions.
  • Recognition and loyalty: The chapter links personal gratitude and historical remembrance, showing the importance of acknowledging people fairly.

Ch. 196Salted Fish Jiang Yan (Second Update)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • The chapter reveals a historical conversation between Qing Yingzong and Jiang Yan, suggesting that Jiang Yan believed no one was suited to be emperor in his era, including himself.
  • Li Wenchuan delivers a lecture at Kyoto University, impressing the audience and sparking online discussions about his academic prowess and potential health issues that led to his entrance into the entertainment industry.
  • Jiang Hansheng discovers a photo of Li Wenchuan from his high school days, noticing a change in the young man's expression over time.

Character Developments

  • Li Wenchuan: His academic genius is further highlighted, and his potential health issues are hinted at, suggesting there's more to his story than meets the eye.
  • Jiang Hansheng: He becomes more suspicious about Li Wenchuan's past and decides to investigate further, starting with Li Zhengyuan.

Significant Themes

  • The theme of unrequited love and sacrifice is hinted at through the speculation about Li Yao (Qing Mingzong) and Jiang Yan's relationship.
  • The theme of hidden truths and secrets is emphasized, as Li Wenchuan's past and potential health issues remain unclear.

Character Interactions

  • Li Wenchuan interacts with the audience, answering questions about Li Yao and Jiang Yan's history, including a provocative question about their possible romantic agreement.
  • Jiang Hansheng observes Li Wenchuan from the audience, becoming more intrigued by his past and planning to investigate further.
  • Online discussions among netizens and Li Wenchuan's former classmates and roommates reveal more about his academic achievements and potential health issues.

Ch. 197Slacker Paparazzo

Key Plot Points and Events

  • The chapter reveals that Li Yao, the emperor, had no children or concubines, spending most of his time in the Imperial Study, hinting at a close relationship with Jiang Yan.
  • During a lecture, a student hints at a possible romantic relationship between Li Yao and Jiang Yan, but Li Wenchuan deflects the topic.
  • Jiang Hansheng and Xia Jue watch the lecture together. Xia Jue is surprised by Li Wenchuan's capabilities.
  • Jiang Hansheng's intense gaze at Li Wenchuan during the lecture trends on Weibo, causing concern for He Meng and Yang Xuan.
  • A paparazzo claims to have exclusive photos of Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng together, but his peers show little interest.

Character Developments

  • Li Wenchuan demonstrates his public speaking skills and ability to handle challenging questions during the lecture.
  • Xia Jue learns about Li Wenchuan's past health issues and his talent, which he believes was wasted.
  • Jiang Hansheng's intense gaze at Li Wenchuan during the lecture hints at his feelings for Li Wenchuan.
  • The paparazzo's lack of interest in his exclusive photos suggests a shift in public interest away from Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng's personal lives.

Significant Themes

  • The theme of hidden relationships and the consequences of their revelation is explored through the student's hint about Li Yao and Jiang Yan, and the paparazzo's claim about Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng.
  • The chapter also touches on the theme of wasted talent, as Xia Jue laments Li Wenchuan's decision to act instead of pursuing his academic career.

Character Interactions

  • Li Wenchuan and Li Wenchuan's father, Li Yao, are implied to have had a close relationship, possibly romantic.
  • Xia Jue and Jiang Hansheng discuss Li Wenchuan's past, with Xia Jue expressing his surprise at Li Wenchuan's capabilities and Jiang Hansheng revealing Li Wenchuan's health issues.
  • He Meng and Yang Xuan watch the livestream together, expressing concern about Jiang Hansheng's intense gaze at Li Wenchuan.
  • The paparazzo attempts to share his exclusive photos with his peers but receives little interest.

Ch. 198Salted Fish Phone (Second Update)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • A paparazzo follows Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng, taking photos of them together at the villa. He tries to sell the photos but fails to generate interest, as netizens are more amused by a pigeon eating while laying an egg.
  • Jiang Hansheng sees the photos and is upset that they didn't make the hot search. He accidentally breaks his phone in anger.
  • Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng attend an exchange meeting together. Jiang Hansheng answers Li Wenchuan's question about Jiang Yan's words, hinting at a possible past life connection.

Character Developments

  • The paparazzo is disheartened by the lack of interest in Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng's photos, leading him to question his career choice.
  • Jiang Hansheng shows his anger and strength when he breaks his phone, revealing a more intense side of his personality.
  • Li Wenchuan remains calm and collected, even when faced with Jiang Hansheng's anger and the possibility of a past life connection.

Significant Themes

  • The fickleness of public interest and the ephemeral nature of fame, as seen through the paparazzo's struggles and the netizens' focus on the pigeon video.
  • The potential for a past life connection between Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng, hinted at through Jiang Yan's words and Jiang Hansheng's response.

Character Interactions

  • The paparazzo interacts with his colleagues, expressing his frustration and disillusionment with the industry.
  • Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng interact throughout the chapter, with Li Wenchuan showing concern for Jiang Hansheng's well-being and Jiang Hansheng hinting at his growing feelings for Li Wenchuan.
  • Liao Honghui helps Li Wenchuan decline dinner invitations, showing his loyalty and understanding of Li Wenchuan's preferences.

Ch. 199The Slacker Young Master

Key Plot Points and Events

  • The nation watches as Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng buy the same phone model, endorsing the brand Jiang Hansheng supports.
  • Li Wenchuan openly praises Teyuan Dairy's yogurt, leading to a significant increase in sales.
  • He Meng and Yang Xuan receive business partnership offers from Teyuan Dairy.

Character Developments

  • Li Wenchuan's popularity and influence continue to grow, making him a sought-after endorser.
  • Jiang Hansheng's laid-back attitude towards sponsorships contrasts with Li Wenchuan's impact on sales.
  • He Meng and Yang Xuan's professional lives improve due to their association with Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng.

Significant Themes

  • The power of celebrity influence on consumer behavior.
  • The impact of endorsements on a brand's success.
  • The consequences of keeping secrets (Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng's relationship).

Character Interactions

  • Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng's public displays of similarity (phone, yogurt) fuel fan speculation about their relationship.
  • He Meng and Yang Xuan's shared experience of receiving business partnership offers from Teyuan Dairy highlights their professional growth.
  • Xia Jue's internal struggle about revealing Li Wenchuan and Jiang Hansheng's relationship to his teacher, Liao Honghui.

Ch. 200Salted Fish Pinyin (Second Update)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Li Wenchuan's past as a top student and his decision to enter the entertainment industry spark online debates.
  • His fans use pinyin to argue online, making it difficult for haters to counter them due to language barriers.
  • Jiang Hansheng explores Li Wenchuan's mansion and admires its design, which was secretly created by Li Wenchuan himself.
  • Li Zhengyuan shows Jiang Hansheng around, subtly bragging about Li Wenchuan's genius.

Character Developments

  • Li Wenchuan remains unaware of the online debates and Jiang Hansheng's admiration for his mansion's design.
  • Jiang Hansheng demonstrates his understanding of Li Zhengyuan's unspoken expectations, showing deference and respect.
  • Li Zhengyuan is proud of Li Wenchuan's accomplishments but is displeased with Jiang Hansheng's quick understanding of his unspoken cues.

Significant Themes

  • The tension between Li Zhengyuan's pride in Li Wenchuan and his disapproval of Jiang Hansheng's relationship with him.
  • The power dynamics between important figures and their subordinates, with Jiang Hansheng expertly navigating Li Zhengyuan's expectations.

Character Interactions

  • Li Zhengyuan subtly challenges Jiang Hansheng, who responds with deference and understanding, leaving Li Zhengyuan displeased.
  • Jiang Hansheng admires Li Wenchuan's design skills, though Li Wenchuan is unaware of this.
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