At this moment, inside the conference room of Nangong Clan Headquarters—
"Chairman, this report summarizes last quarter’s KPIs from all branch offices. I’ve streamlined it for you," said a refined man in gold-rimmed glasses, handing over the dozen-page document.
"Chairman, I have something to discuss with you after the meeting."
"Last month’s acquisition projects and profits for headquarters—please review~"
...
"Enough! Don’t bother me with trivial matters. Handle what you can; if not, step aside. Since when do I need updates on sesame-seed issues? I have far more important topics to address," Nangong Yao snapped, slamming his fist on the table. Seated in the chairman’s seat, his imposing presence filled the room.
The Nangong Clan stood as Jinglan City’s undisputed commerce leader, with ventures extending into finance. Unlike other families casting wide nets, the Nangongs built dominance through high-end, specialized, and cutting-edge commerce—leaving few provincial rivals to this day.
After a brief silence, Nangong Yao gathered his thoughts. "I’ve reviewed recent clan power shifts. Only the Xia Clan warrants attention. We lead for now, but their ambition runs deep. While we stay domestic, they’ve expanded overseas. Foreign markets are fiercer—never underestimate them."
"Surface-level, all seems fine. But the Xia Clan is growing faster. Their subsidiary, Leji Entertainment, is their top earner. Young people now spread word of mouth about Leji artists."
"So my point: we can’t cling to commerce alone. In today’s world, traffic is king. A few promising idols could out-earn an underperforming branch."
"Plainly put: I aim to acquire Leji Entertainment at a premium. If refused, we’ll invest heavily to build our own idol training company. With our capital and mainland connections, we’ll surpass the Xia Clan."
"Your thoughts?" Nangong Yao asked sternly, flipping his black pen restlessly.
Silence fell. Some whispered. Then, unanimous nods affirmed the plan’s viability.
"This requires further discussion. I’ll reconvene once decided. Meeting adjourned."
After dismissal, Nangong Yao sat alone in his leather chair, lost in thought. He had to pave the way for Nangong Ruihui before she could truly succeed him. He’d been an inadequate father. In the Nangong Clan, only the clan head earns full recognition—and, in the youth’s eyes, freedom.
He could’ve lived quieter. But the Xia Clan, ranked second among the four great families, now threatened their top seat. Without action, his position—and Ruihui’s succession—would crumble. For his daughter’s future standing and freedom, he had to widen the gap with the Xia Clan, fast.
"I hope it proceeds smoothly," Nangong Yao murmured, closing his eyes.
...
Simultaneously, inside Leji Entertainment’s CEO office.
"Zhou Yuan, report on Mu Yao’s current status. Details matter—even his daily meals," Long Yue said routinely, sipping her rich coffee.
This wasn’t eccentricity; it was protocol. Tracking his diet ensured he neither gained nor lost weight drastically.
Leji Entertainment valued Mu Yao highly. The popularity wave "Long Xueer" sparked three years ago was no fluke. If her comeback surpassed before, public fervor would rebound powerfully and unleash pent-up momentum.
"Oh dear~ We’re not at academy anymore. Why still call me ‘classmate,’ beautiful principal?" Zhou Yuan twirled playfully around Long Yue.
"Well… Zhou Yuan, go ahead. You know him best at Yingshengya Academy."
Long Yue’s polished attire embodied a successful career woman. "Beautiful principal" was just a student-given nickname at Yingshengya Academy—she preferred CEO.
"So far, nothing’s off. I’ve covered all essential girl-related knowledge with him. He’s adjusted well… except…" Zhou Yuan’s voice slowed slightly.
"Except what?" Long Yue set down her cup.
"He seems… getting closer to a classmate named Nangong Ruihui."
"Oh, Nangong Ruihui is the academy board chairman’s son. No major concern. He’s Nangong Clan. Just watch for extremes—if it reaches kissing level, notify me immediately."
"Wait…" Zhou Yuan froze. "Nangong Ruihui is a *boy*!"
"Exactly why kissing must be reported. Two boys kissing raises eyebrows. But don’t overreact. The idol reboot launches soon. It’s not yet public to Yingshengya students. He faces a wider audience. If questioned, simply state Mu Yao and Long Xueer are two people."
"I see," Zhou Yuan nodded, half-convinced.
"Ahem… a personal question, just curiosity: since you two share a room daily… anything inappropriate happen?"
A woman’s curiosity runs deeper. A boy and girl cohabiting inevitably sparks whispers.
"Inappropriate? Never!"
"Just asking~ But your flustered reaction is suspicious~ Listen: if you like him, move fast. More admirers will come. This is advice from your dad’s friend—and a personal tip." Long Yue watched Zhou Yuan’s blushing face, sensing budding feelings. She, too, was Mu Yao’s fan.
"I…"
Zhou Yuan recalled tackling Mu Yao days ago—their first physical contact. A current surged through her. She hid it; Mu Yao seemed barely affected.
She wasn’t sure if she liked him. Only that he felt far more approachable than the aloof Nangong Ruihui.
That alone wasn’t proof. Too early to decide. She trusted her first instinct.
"I’m heading back to academy. Monthly exams are near—I want a good score."
"Mm, leave early. Stay safe," Long Yue waved.
