A crucial plot item that Xie Chengze is working on creating. Shen Yuan warns that developing gunpowder would only bring suspicion from Emperor Jian, not admiration. The formula's devastating power in warfare makes it dangerous for Xie Chengze to claim credit for it. The solution discussed is for Xie Chengze to voluntarily present it to the Emperor, allowing Shen Yuan and Liang Wan Da to receive the fame while Xie Chengze remains the incompetent Second Prince.
