Chapter 15 Embarking On The Journey
Not too long ago, in the Gao family villa by the sea, Gao Yuan tightly closed his eyes, anxiously awaiting news.
"Young master, the assassination attempt failed, all twelve masters of the Longyang Society are deceased," the fifth elder reported with a grave expression.
A heavy silence descended upon the hall.
Gao Yuan's eyes snapped open, emanating a chilling aura of determination.
"The Li family has informed me that Ye Chengfeng has temporarily regained strength with the help of ginseng. In that case, I will show no mercy," Gao Yuan declared coldly. "Send word to the black market that I am selling thirty-two Black Dragon Army slaves."
The fifth elder raised an eyebrow, questioning, "How will the price be determined?"
Gao Yuan smirked, "Whoever can eliminate Ye Chengfeng today will claim ownership of these thirty-two Black Dragon Army slaves."
"Isn't that an exorbitant price?" the fifth elder inquired, astonished. "Ye Chengfeng alone is not a formidable opponent, but the value of these thirty-two Black Dragon Army slaves is immeasurable. The Triad, the Nine Dragon Gang, the Qiao family, and other factions all covet them, any one of which could easily overpower Ye Chengfeng..."
"I am well aware," Gao Yuan's eyes gleamed with a ruthless resolve. "But as I stated, if Ye Chengfeng meets his end today, so be it."
Recognizing Gao Yuan's unwavering determination, the fifth elder hesitated for a moment before suggesting cautiously, "Shouldn't we inform the head of the Gao family?"
Gao Yuan's gaze turned icy, "Do you believe this trivial matter warrants troubling my father?"
The fifth elder paled, immediately prostrating himself and apologizing profusely, "I dare not, I dare not!"
"Very well, go and relay the message," Gao Yuan dismissed him impatiently.
Meanwhile, at the Situ Family residence, Situ Hanlin's expression was grave as he addressed the situation, "This is a serious matter. The Triad, the Nine Dragon Gang, and the Qiao Family are all influential figures in the underworld, commanding vast power. With over two thousand elite fighters at their disposal, we stand no chance in a direct confrontation."
Despite the Situ Family's wealth and legitimate business ventures, they were at a disadvantage once the underworld became involved.
In contrast, Ye Chengfeng remained unperturbed, dismissing the threat, "They are mere ants. When are they planning to meet?"
Situ Yuan responded, "Tonight, at eight o'clock, in the eastern suburb black market."
"I must enter seclusion now and depart before eight o'clock," Ye Chengfeng declared, his eyes ablaze with determination. "I granted Gao Yuan three days to spare his life, but he has chosen to enslave my Black Dragon Army soldiers. He will pay the price today."
"Very well, what else needs to be done?" Situ Hanlin pledged his full support to rescue the Black Dragon Army soldiers and aid Ye Chengfeng.
Ye Chengfeng narrowed his eyes, instructing, "I will provide you with another prescription. Prepare thirty-two pills according to it."
Handing the prescription to Situ Hanlin, Ye Chengfeng's actions left him in awe.
This prescription was of unparalleled quality, a coveted secret that could spark intense competition if revealed.
Yet, Ye Chengfeng had entrusted it to him without hesitation.
Even more astonishing was Ye Chengfeng's ability to effortlessly produce this prescription, a closely guarded secret of the Black Dragon Army.
Who exactly was Ye Chengfeng?
Previously believed to be a survivor of the Black Dragon Army, his true identity remained shrouded in mystery.
The Situ family's sentiments towards the Black Dragon Army were such that saving one was saving them all.
However, he was now puzzled by Ye Chengfeng's true identity.
Upon seeing Situ Hanlin's doubts, Ye Chengfeng casually remarked, "All you need to know is that I am a soldier of the Black Dragon Army."
Situ Hanlin nodded in understanding.
The Situ family had a lot to prepare for, as tonight would be a major battle!
Ye Chengfeng was well aware of this, which is why he secluded himself with a millennium ginseng to restore his strength temporarily.
Meanwhile, Li Wende of the Li family rushed into the hall, exclaiming joyfully, "Mother, I bring good news, great news!"
Li Lao Taijun was taken aback, furrowing her brow as she said, "The only good news for the Li family would be Ye Chengfeng's demise!"
"Is he really going to die?" Li Wende asked with a smile.
"What?"
Li Lao Taijun, Zhang Lejuan, and others immediately became alert, urging him to explain.
Li Wende continued, "Just now, Gao Yuan was furious and was about to chase and kill Ye Chengfeng. He even gathered various heroes of the underground world to eliminate Ye Chengfeng together. This time, Ye Chengfeng has no way out!"
"Hahaha, that's wonderful!"
Madam Li laughed heartily, "Ye Chengfeng, that beast, dares to disrupt our alliance with the Gao family, which goes against our family's wishes. We have long desired his demise!"
"Now, we have the opportunity for the Li family to rise. By maintaining the alliance with the Gao family and gaining their resources, we might even become the fifth largest family in Zhonghai!"
Li Wende nodded firmly, "Mother, rest assured. Li Wanrou is the one we have taken care of the most in our family. I know her personality well. Because of her, our Li family suffered heavy losses in the failed alliance and became a laughingstock due to taking care of Ye Chengfeng. Now, she will surely be willing to sacrifice herself for the sake of the Li family!"
The second brother, Li Wenhai, shook his head and remarked, "Not necessarily. Li Wanrou was deceived by us once, how could she agree again? She clearly refused before!"
With these words, the room fell silent.
They had been overheard by Li Wanrou when they were discussing how to kill Ye Chengfeng, and she had clearly refused at that time.
How could she possibly agree now?
Li Wenhai looked at Li Wende with a cold smile, his face filled with gloating.
Madam Li appeared lost in thought, as if she hadn't heard their words.
Madam Li was aging and would eventually have to relinquish her power. The brothers of the Li family, who seemed loving and harmonious, were actually vying for power.
If Li Wanrou were to marry into the Gao family again, it would be a great achievement as her father. If they truly became the fifth major family, Li Lao Taijun would be delighted to appoint Li Wende as the head of the Li family.
Therefore, as the second eldest in the family, Li Wenhai would naturally not willingly relinquish his power.
Li Wende's expression darkened as he gritted his teeth, "For the sake of the Li family, she cannot refuse. This is a family matter. With Ye Chengfeng dead, who else can advocate for her? When the time comes, she must agree, whether she wants to or not!"
"If she dares to refuse, just restrain her and send her to the Gao family!"
"Very well."
Li Lao Taijun spoke in a deep voice, "Since Wende has spoken, it is settled. When Gao Yuan brings good news, Li Wanrou will be married off again!"
"No need, this time Ye Chengfeng is definitely dead, we can decide now." Li Wende said with a faint smile.
After a moment of contemplation, Li Lao Taijun nodded slightly, "Alright, let's prepare!"
Situjia.
Situhanglin and Situyuan were both waiting. The elixir that Ye Chengfeng had requested to be refined was ready, and the Situ family had also brought seventy trusted experts from within the family.
The Black Dragon Army soldiers needed to be rescued, but the Gao family was unwilling to cooperate, so they had to take action forcefully.
"Creak..."
The door swung open, and Ye Chengfeng emerged, leaning on a cane. Despite his frail appearance, he alone was aware of his unparalleled strength. Casting a glance at the gathered crowd, he declared, "It's time to move forward!"