Chapter 124: Once You Board a Pirate Ship, There's No Getting Off.

Observing the contemplative Murong Bai before them, Zhuge Jun and Shangguan Lian exchanged glances. A hint of a smile appeared in each of their eyes; although Fang Xu’s idea was bold, it was far from a mere whim. Choosing Murong Bai specifically was certainly no accident. It could only be said that the timing was uncannily perfect, and indeed, Murong Bai was the unrivaled choice.

Why such an assessment? It stemmed from the attitude Murong Bai had just displayed. Had it been anyone else, upon learning that they would have the backing of the Zhuge family, the Shangguan family, and the imperial court to become the head of the Murong clan, they likely would have agreed without a second thought. The allure of such a position was simply too great. Even Zhuge Jun and Shangguan Lian felt that, were they in his shoes, they might not have hesitated either. After all, what was there to fear with three such powerful pillars of support?

Yet, they knew that in this world, nothing is ever guaranteed, and no outcome is truly set in stone. To ensure total success, one must weigh the possibilities through rigorous deliberation. Murong Bai’s current hesitation was exactly what had caught the eyes of Zhuge Jun and Shangguan Lian.

"I expect you to weigh the stakes clearly," Fang Xu said coldly. "Once you step onto this boat, there is no turning back." It was clear that Fang Xu wanted Murong Bai to think calmly. Despite their short acquaintance, Fang Xu had developed a genuine liking for the young man. Still, he valued talent above all, and he knew that Murong Bai’s decision would dictate the course of events to come. Fang Xu wanted him to see the situation for what it was; if Murong Bai was unwilling to join them, Fang Xu would not force him.

However, should he decline, it was sealed that Murong Bai would surely die. From Fang Xu’s perspective, once someone learned of his plans and refused to stand with him, he could not allow the information to leak. Anything that posed a threat to Qin Suwen or the Great Qin Empire had to be nipped in the bud. In reality, Murong Bai had no room for choice; only one path lay before him. Realizing this, he offered a wry smile and nodded at Fang Xu.

"What would you have me do, my lord?" Murong Bai asked, cupping his hands.

Fang Xu waved a hand dismissively. "When it is just us, I prefer you to call me 'Young Master'." He patted Murong Bai on the shoulder with a smile. Murong Bai hesitated for a moment before nodding.

"Murong Bai greets the Young Master!" he said firmly.

Fang Xu was satisfied with this attitude; it meant that Murong Bai was now effectively his plant within the Murong family. "Actually, I don’t need you to do anything yet—at least, not right now. You may return for the time being."

Murong Bai was stunned. So too were Zhuge Jun and Shangguan Lian, who looked at Fang Xu with confusion. However, Fang Xu pressed their hands gently, a signal for them to remain silent and follow his lead. They immediately caught on and assumed an indifferent air. Fang Xu breathed a sigh of relief.

"Young Master, I am to return now?" Murong Bai confirmed. Seeing that Fang Xu was indeed serious, he departed with his guards.

Once he was gone, Zhuge Jun and Shangguan Lian turned to Fang Xu, ready to ask for an explanation, but were met with a knowing smile. "Curious as to why I let him go?" Fang Xu asked. Both nodded.

"Naturally, there are some things he must discover for himself. It will have a much greater impact that way," Fang Xu said. Though the others didn't fully grasp his meaning, they saw no reason to worry. They resumed their stroll through the temple fair, acting as if nothing had happened. They enjoyed themselves thoroughly, and for a moment, Fang Xu felt as if Zhuge Jun and Shangguan Lian were no more than children. Yet, upon reflection, he realized this was the tragedy of the great clans: despite being surrounded by luxury and attention, they possessed no true freedom.

As the dusk deepened and the crowds thinned, the three began to feel the pangs of hunger. When they returned to the inn, Old Wu was already waiting.

"Young Master, leave these things to me. Why don't you take the others to dine?" Old Wu said, relieving Fang Xu of the various trinkets he had gathered. Surprised by Old Wu’s unusual thoughtfulness, Fang Xu didn't dwell on it. He handed over the items and led Zhuge Jun and Shangguan Lian to their chambers for dinner.