The night air in the old city had a sharp edge to it, like sothing was about to break.
Lin Feng stood at the roof of the temporary Crimson Circle site, looking down over the narrow alleys where property markers had just begun to shift in his favor. Xu Shanyue had left not long ago, her expression unreadable after their confrontation with Guo Yuwei and the street-level drama that nearly spiraled.
His phone buzzed.
System prompt:
"Congratulations, Host. You’ve gained 2% influence in the Old Quarter.
Reward: Hidden Asset Unlocked – ’Silent Stake: Tongxiang Logistics Depot (35%).’
P.S. The Crimson Circle thinks you’re playing checkers. You’re already flipping the board."
He smirked. That depot was crucial—an artery for the local supply chain. Silently acquiring it before even Xu Shanyue noticed? Satisfying.
But the feeling didn’t last long.
A low, almost imperceptible explosion echoed in the distance—northwest sector. Not close enough to be a full strike. More like... a ssage.
Luo Zixuan leaned back on the jade-inlaid sofa, swirling his drink.
"So the boy thinks he can challenge centuries with rented charm and secondhand elegance?"
Across from him sat an older man, tall, gaunt, and expressionless.
Luo Zixuan continued, "Lin Feng’s causing too much noise. The Crimson Circle’s giving him attention. My father’s watching. That alone makes him dangerous."
The old man finally spoke.
"Then let’s make him untouchable. Not through fear. Through debt."
Luo Zixuan’s eyes narrowed.
"Financial?"
"Emotional."
He handed over a dossier. Inside: nas of Lin Feng’s recent contacts. One file highlighted:
Ye Yuyan.
Art gallery. Neutral background. No current protection. Vulnerable if manipulated right.
Zixuan smiled coldly.
"Then let’s make him choose—win the city, or protect the girl."
Ye Yuyan humd to herself, arranging canvases for a small exhibition. Lin Feng had promised to stop by. She didn’t need his money—though he always found a way to "accidentally" spend on her.
She didn’t hear the man co in.
But she noticed the silence.
The way the lights flickered unnaturally.
The way the air suddenly felt... watched.
A courier stood there, holding a letter with no logo.
She took it.
Unfolded it.
Then her face went pale.
System Alert:
"Warning. Emotional Anchor Detected in Jeopardy.
Ye Yuyan tagged in rising-threat zone. Probability of forced leverage: 78%."
Lin’s gaze sharpened.
Then he chuckled.
"They’re going after her? That’s the best the Luo family can do?"
He paused.
"...No. That’s just the distraction."
He picked up his phone and dialed.
"Shanyue. I need three things: one empty gallery, one insider at the Luo vault, and whatever favor you haven’t used yet with the Old Families."
Her voice ca cool and asured on the other end.
"You’ll owe ."
"Then make the debt worthwhile."
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