The carriage rumbled along the street, the rhythmic “clip-clop” of hooves echoing as it slowly made its way towards the Mu Manor. Mu Zhi’an leaned back against the plush cushions, turning his head to gaze out the window at the passing scenery. A light rain drifted down from the heavens, each drop creating countless ripples on the wet ground, like blooming lotuses.

The entire street was shrouded in a hazy mist, the gentle rain blurring the outlines of the moving carriage, the bustling vendors, and the surrounding buildings. It was a picturesque scene, imbued with an ancient charm.

Bai Ruoxi sat gracefully across from him. Turning her head slightly, she addressed him in a soft voice, “Young Master Mu, have you given the matter any further thought?” Her voice was as clear and cold as a mountain spring, yet her captivating peach blossom eyes held a captivating allure, a captivating blend of innocence and charm.

At this moment, however, the renowned beauty of Tianxuan City displayed an uncharacteristic humility before Mu Zhi’an. Despite her past disdain for this idle playboy, she was determined to maintain a facade of respect.

Seated beside Bai Ruoxi was a slender young man with soft black hair and a pale complexion, a consequence of years spent shielded from the sun. His attire was luxurious, hinting at a life of privilege and seclusion.

Well, to be precise, the young master of the Mu family was indeed a pampered soul.

The Mu family held significant influence in Tianxuan City, second only to one other. It was precisely this influence that led Bai Ruoxi to seek him out, forcing her to swallow her pride and offer him courtesy within the confines of this carriage.

“Young Master Mu?” When Mu Zhi’an remained silent, Bai Ruoxi called out again, her sweet voice soft and gentle.

Her words roused Mu Zhi’an from his thoughts. He turned his head slightly to look at Bai Ruoxi and replied with a faint smile, “When you mention ‘further thought,’ are you referring to me, or rather, the Mu family, helping you out of your current predicament?”

About half a month ago, the Bai family found themselves at odds with the Morning Glory Chamber of Commerce due to some trade disputes. Soon after, the Chamber of Commerce began to discreetly sabotage the Bai family’s business. Initially, the Bai family, relying on their longstanding foundation in Tianxuan City, remained unafraid. However, they soon discovered that the Chamber of Commerce had secretly colluded with their rivals, the Gongsun family. Facing attacks on two fronts, the Bai family’s business rapidly declined.

In less than half a month, the Bai family’s shops had significantly downsized. If this continued, it was only a matter of time before their entire enterprise crumbled.

However, if the Mu family were to intervene, the situation would instantly turn around. With the Mu family’s influence in Tianxuan City, a single word from them would force both the Morning Glory Chamber of Commerce and the Gongsun family to comply.

Bai Ruoxi nodded subtly, her eyes locking onto Mu Zhi’an’s as she softly pleaded, “If Young Master Mu is willing to help, the Bai family will certainly offer a satisfactory token of our gratitude.”

As she spoke, her hands nervously clutched the edges of her skirt, seemingly humiliated by her own request.

Any ordinary young man, witnessing such a beauty pleading with such helplessness and a voice that could enchant the very heavens, would have readily agreed in a heartbeat.

Mu Zhi’an couldn’t help but take another glance at Bai Ruoxi. She wore a white palace dress, her ample bosom straining against the fine fabric. Her long black hair was held in place by a simple jade hairpin, a single strand escaping to caress her delicate cheek. She exuded an alluring blend of aloofness and a hint of alluring sensuality, an irresistible combination for any man.

He had to admit, she was indeed a captivating beauty. Even Mu Zhi’an found himself captivated by her charm.

However, a faint smile soon spread across his face. He looked at Bai Ruoxi and asked, “What exactly do you mean by ‘a token of gratitude’? Could you be a bit more specific?”

Bai Ruoxi froze, clearly not expecting Mu Zhi’an to respond in such a manner. She stared at him, her lips parting slightly before closing again.

What exactly did ‘a token of gratitude’ entail? At this point, even she wasn’t sure.

Ultimately, her words were nothing more than an empty promise. Bai Ruoxi, or rather, the Bai family, hadn’t given any real thought to what they could possibly offer.

After all, Mu Zhi’an was smitten with her.

That reason alone should have sufficed. At least, that’s what her mother believed.

As expected…

Seeing Bai Ruoxi’s silence, Mu Zhi’an chuckled inwardly. Adopting a solemn tone, he said, “Miss Bai, you must understand that while the Mu family is indeed powerful, making enemies of two families without any benefit is not a wise move.”

“After all, if I were to intervene, it wouldn’t just be me, but the entire Mu family.”

Bai Ruoxi instinctively tightened her grip on her skirt, stealing a glance at Mu Zhi’an, her eyes filled with complex emotions. Was he trying to back her into a corner?

Mu Zhi’an had been pursuing Bai Ruoxi for quite some time, but the young woman had never accepted his advances.

However, she hadn’t outright rejected him either…

Because Mu Zhi’an was the young master of the Mu family, she believed he would be of great use to her in the future.

And now, the time had come when she needed his help… yet, he seemed reluctant.

Bai Ruoxi forced a sorrowful smile and said softly, “I understand that my past indifference towards Young Master Mu must have displeased you. If you wish to refuse my request, please just say so directly. There’s no need to beat around the bush.”

Mu Zhi’an sighed, “I’m not refusing you. It’s just that if I were to intervene, I would have to consider the Mu family’s interests. Even if I’m willing to help without any benefit, the Mu family wouldn’t agree.”

“Miss Bai, you need to understand that I’m not the only one who calls the shots in the Mu family.”

“Young Master Mu is well aware of the Bai family’s current predicament. What else could we possibly offer?” Bai Ruoxi raised her tear-filled eyes, her beautiful face a picture of helplessness.

Mu Zhi’an was taken aback. “Then should I just leave?”

Bai Ruoxi remained silent, her gaze fixed on Mu Zhi’an.

This woman really thinks she can get away with this… Mu Zhi’an realized. Spreading his hands, he said, “It seems there’s nothing more to discuss.”

Mu Zhi’an turned and lifted the carriage curtain. Looking back at her, he said, “I’ll have the coachman escort you back. Good luck, Miss Bai.”

As Mu Zhi’an was about to leave, a flicker of panic crossed Bai Ruoxi’s eyes. She reached out and grabbed his arm, her soft body pressing against him.

Mu Zhi’an turned back to see Bai Ruoxi gazing at him with pleading eyes. In a voice soft enough to melt the strongest resolve, she said, “What would it take for Young Master Mu to help? Whatever it is, Ruoxi is willing to do it.”

Why does this make me feel like a villain forcing himself on a helpless woman? And what kind of misunderstanding does she have about me, thinking I’m trying to force her into something…

Mu Zhi’an sighed inwardly as he looked at her pitiful expression.

But soon, he felt a sense of relief.

It wasn’t surprising that his past reputation would lead to such misunderstandings.

A few days ago, Mu Zhi’an had transmigrated into this world.

To be precise, he had transmigrated long ago, but his young mind at the time couldn’t handle the influx of memories. It wasn’t until recently that the memories of his past life resurfaced.

As memories flooded back, washing over him like a tidal wave, Mu Zhi’an, now fully aware of his past deeds, realized just how many foolish things he had done.

The notorious young master of the Mu family, infamous for his wicked ways, had indulged in every vice imaginable. Brothels, gambling dens—he frequented them all.

Just a while ago, he had even set his sights on a beautiful widow.

Thankfully, his memories awakened just in time. Any later, and he would have been beyond redemption.

Mu Zhi’an glanced at the system interface, visible only to him, and sighed inwardly.

[Name: Mu Zhi’an]

[Role: Supporting Character]

[Achievements: Heaven’s Jealousy (Talentless), Inborn Celestial Vessel, Friend of the Antagonists.]

Yes, Mu Zhi’an’s role was that of a ‘supporting character.’

In other words, he was destined to become a stepping stone for the ‘protagonist.’

To put it in gaming terms, he was the elite mob, there solely for the protagonist to ‘level up.’

****************

Vessel = Furnace

Source: Webnovel.com, updated by Aunomay