"Father, the situation is not looking good now. I never expected Xiao Zihan to be so strong. That knife of his is like the devil's Shura Blade. We are definitely not his match."

"Sigh, after all the arrangements we made, we ended up being discovered by Xiao Wan Chong. Now that he has retreated tactfully and is no longer the leader of the Xiao Gang, tell Shadow not to go after him anymore to avoid alerting him. Let's observe quietly for a while, understand more about this Xiao Zihan, and then take action. Although that kid is powerful, I believe Shadow is not inferior to him; otherwise, how could he be recognized as one of the top ten killers in Xinhua."

"Hey, Old Han, that move of yours was really amazing. Look at my old man's expression; haha, I haven't seen him so surprised in years. He looks like he could fit a rotten egg in his mouth, damn it."

"I say Xiao He, don't always call him 'old man.' He might be your father, my father-in-law, so please show a little respect."

"Well, I'm used to it. It's hard to change for a while. Anyway, he doesn't care, so don't pick on it anymore."

Xiao Zihan smiled bitterly and said, "I offered good advice and ended up in a situation where I'm criticized. Well, just let it be."

"That's right, Boss Han, you should also give me some leeway. Otherwise, I'll be oppressed by you soon." Xiao He laughed triumphantly and said. Then, his expression became serious, and he said, "Boss Han, three days later, my old man... um, my dad will host a banquet for you. He will invite well-known figures from the underworld in Chang Liao so that you can get to know and understand them. At that time, Boss Han, you should pay special attention to Mr. Wei Tuo, the leader of the Xiye, that person is not only very shrewd but also one of the top fighters in the Chang Liao underworld, extremely powerful. Under his leadership, the Xiye has already shown signs of surpassing us and the other two major gangs. The entire western region of Chang Liao is almost entirely under his influence, and all the small gangs must depend on him for survival."

Deep in thought, Xiao Zihan asked, "How about the situations of the other two gangs?"

Xiao He said, "The main force of the Seashore Gang is in the south, and because the economy in the south of Chang Liao is still relatively backward, the Seashore Gang is the weakest among the four major gangs. As for the Alliance, they have always held power in the north. It is said that even before my dad established the Xiao Gang, the Alliance was already very powerful. But strangely, the leader of the Alliance seems to have no ambitions. For decades, they have neither expanded nor lost any turf, maintaining an air of mystery. In short, the four major gangs each hold their ground, and no one can easily swallow another."

Upon hearing Xiao He's words, Xiao Zihan became interested in this Alliance. It was peculiar for a gang to maintain stability for decades without expanding. In the underworld, where survival was a matter of life and death, this was truly unusual. As Xiao Wan Chong had mentioned, while you stop, others progress, and if you fail to adapt, your demise is inevitable. However, the Alliance seemed to be an exception, steadily holding its ground for years. This raised questions about the leader's capabilities or perhaps internal leadership issues.

Thinking about this, Xiao Zihan couldn't help but ask, "What is the name of the Alliance's leader?"

Xiao He spread his hands, and with a charming expression, he gently furrowed his brows like a willow leaf, saying, "I don't know. Whenever something major happens, the Alliance's Deputy Master Jiang Cheng comes forward. As far as I can remember, I've never heard who the leader of the Alliance is."

Xiao Zihan was slightly surprised but chuckled. The leader of the Alliance suddenly piqued his interest. What kind of person could maintain such stability? It was truly something to look forward to.

Three days later, as the sun slowly set behind the Western Mountains, the last ray of light disappeared, and night began to fall. The sky was filled with stars, resembling countless pairs of children's eyes twinkling with a faint glow.

The night was cool, but in front of Xiao Wan Chong's private villa's vast lawn, it was lively as if a fire had been ignited. High-end cars continuously arrived, their engines shutting off one after another, lining up in an orderly manner.

Xiao Wan Chong smiled broadly, welcoming each arriving guest, including Xiao Zihan, personally. The sincerity and enthusiasm were undeniable. Xiao Wan Chong, the old fox, had a unique way of dealing with people. Normally, with his status, only the leaders of the other three major gangs would have the privilege of being personally welcomed by him. However, by doing so, though losing a bit of face, he gained the respect of many.

Xiao Zihan understood the significance of Xiao Wan Chong's actions and didn't put on any airs. He was as easygoing as a gentle breeze, leaving the bosses of the smaller gangs pleasantly surprised. It turned out that "Bloody" Xiao Zihan was such an approachable person.

The smaller the influence, the earlier they arrived. Unable to offend others, they had to set aside their pride and arrive a bit earlier. Xiao Zihan checked the time; it was almost seven o'clock. The heavyweight figures should be arriving soon.

Slowly, an extended "Kalin Mody" motorhome was sandwiched between two sleek black cars, driving along the small path through the lawn toward them. The car's headlights flashed, causing Xiao Zihan to instinctively narrow his eyes.

The motorhome came to a stop beside Xiao Zihan, and a burly man got out from the passenger seat. He opened the rear door, and a man in his forties, dressed in a gray suit, stepped out. The man was of average height, with neatly combed back hair, and his small eyes gleamed. At first glance, he looked like a successful businessman.

After this man got out, two sturdy and robust men followed suit. One of them, upon seeing Xiao Zihan standing nearby, spoke up, "Go, announce it; say that the boss of the Four Seas Gang has arrived."

Xiao Zihan ignored him and examined Four Seas Gang's boss, Lu Kun, and the more than ten men behind him. He smiled and said, "So it's Brother Lu, I've heard a lot about you."

The big man who spoke before was angered by Xiao Zihan's lack of compliance and shouted, "You have no say here, go..."

He didn't finish his words because Lu Kun made a gesture. Lu Kun carefully examined Xiao Zihan before shifting his gaze to Xiao Wan Chong. He smiled and asked, "Young brother, what's your name?"

Xiao Zihan laughed heartily and extended his hand, saying, "Xiao Zihan."

Lu Kun and his men were instantly shocked.

At this moment, Xiao Wan Chong, having just finished entertaining another friend from the underworld, walked over. Upon seeing Lu Kun, he greeted him with a long laugh and warmly said, "Brother Lu, when did you arrive? Why didn't you come and say hello to your old brother? You must drink three cups as a penalty when we're at the table."

Lu Kun examined Xiao Zihan with interest and then shifted his attention back to Xiao Wan Chong, saying, "Brother, I just arrived and haven't had a chance to catch up with my old brother. I didn't expect you and Brother Xiao to be here already. It's caused me to make a big joke, mistaking Brother Xiao for someone else. Haha, Brother Xiao, my men might have been a bit disrespectful just now. Please don't take it to heart."

Xiao Zihan quickly said, "Where's Brother Lu. Brother Wan's words are just a joke. Xiao Zihan wouldn't take such a trivial matter to heart."

Lu Kun, however, seemed displeased, saying, "I address Xiao Zihan as my younger brother, why does he call me Brother Lu and says it's not disrespectful?"

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Xiao Wan Chong laughed heartily and said, "Brother Lu, you might not know; Xiao Zihan is about to become my son-in-law. With me around, even if he calls you Brother, how should the two of us address each other?"

Lu Kun suddenly realized and said, "So that's how it is. No wonder Brother Xiao. Haha." After that, he and Xiao Zihan were invited into the villa by Xiao Wan Chong.

After the boss of the Four Seas Gang arrived, Jiang Cheng, the Vice Master of the Alliance, also showed up. Jiang Cheng's arrival was simple; a newly released silver-gray "Orpheus" sedan carried him and two bodyguards in a relaxed manner, without the fanfare others received. Upon seeing Xiao Wan Chong and Xiao Zihan, he displayed courteous and gracious manners, immediately exuding an aura of a seasoned general. Looking at him, he had a refined appearance that complemented his composed and calm demeanor.

Even though Xiao Zihan had only exchanged a few words with him, every sentence conveyed sincere congratulations, without a trace of insincerity. Compared to Lu Kun before him, Xiao Zihan found Jiang Cheng more impressive. Consequently, he developed a certain favorable impression of the Alliance.

After Jiang Cheng went inside, as the clock struck seven, the leader of the West Domain Gang, Brother Xiye, arrived precisely on time. About seven or eight black cars, all uniformly colored, pulled up. Dozens of men got out first, forming a protective perimeter. Amid their encirclement, the central black BMW was finally opened. The first to touch the ground was a pair of brand-new black leather shoes, emitting a soft "snap" sound upon landing. Then, a towering figure, standing over 190 cm, came into view distinctly.

Although Xiao Wan Chong had seen Wei Tuo more than once, every encounter with this tall and imposing figure left him awestruck. Wei Tuo's sharp, sinister face, coupled with narrow and bright phoenix eyes and thick, dark eyebrows, gave him an overwhelmingly domineering appearance. With shoulder-length flowing hair secured by a black hairband, he exuded a wild and unrestrained aura. At this moment, his gaze roamed over Xiao Wan Chong, pausing on Xiao Zihan.

Compared to the other big brothers who came today, Wei Tuo had the most imposing presence. Before Xiao Zihan could step forward, Wei Tuo had already taken the initiative to approach him. Ignoring the presence of Xiao Wan Chong, he extended his right hand, saying coldly, "Finally, I meet you, Xiao Zihan."

Xiao Zihan remained composed, gave a faint smile, and replied, "Is Xiao Zihan so hard to come by?" As he spoke, he extended his right hand.

Two different hands—a large and hefty one, and a slender and powerful one—met. Instead of a simple handshake, the two hands clutched tightly, intensifying the grip with each passing moment.

Xiao Zihan remained calm, facing the increasing pressure, standing tall like a mountain, resilient against any storms.

Xiao Wan Chong and the burly men behind Wei Tuo were all focused on this battle of grips, a silent confrontation devoid of gunpowder. However, after watching for a long time, they couldn't make sense of it.

Suddenly, Wei Tuo tilted his head back and let out a long laugh, saying, "Indeed, 'Bloody' Xiao Zihan, your reputation on the streets is well-deserved."

Xiao Zihan smiled and responded, "Wei brother has a powerful grip; I truly admire it."

After Wei Tuo's laughter subsided, he suddenly spoke to the black BMW he arrived in, "My sister, come out and meet Xiao, the leader of this new nightmare you've been losing sleep over."

Hearing this, Xiao Zihan was momentarily surprised and couldn't help but turn his gaze to the car. The door opened, and a beautiful woman descended from the car. Despite her attractiveness, her face exuded a cold charm. She fixed her peach blossom eyes without a single blink on Xiao Zihan.

Seeing her clearly, Xiao Zihan couldn't help but wryly smile. Unexpectedly, he was meeting Chen Muzheng's wife, Zhao Yi, so soon. Thanks to her, the wound he received was just recently healed after the repeated meddling of Xiao He. Now, seeing her again, it seemed to ache slightly.

Wei Zhao Yi walked slowly to Wei Tuo's side, remaining silent, only glaring at Xiao Zihan with an intense hatred that words couldn't express.

Wei Tuo timely spoke, "Xiao brother, do you recognize her?"

Following the sound, Xiao Zihan looked at Wei Tuo, staring at the unfriendly expression on his face. Squinting, Xiao Zihan instantly understood Wei Tuo's true intentions, coldly saying, "Wei brother, is this a declaration of war against me?"

Wei Tuo laughed heartily, and his face suddenly turned cold. He said, "Exactly. Before, when you were just an unknown pawn, I thought it wasn't the right time and could tolerate you for a while, let you enjoy some carefree days. But now that you've become a gang leader, if I, Wei Tuo, don't show some intention, wouldn't I be laughed at on the streets for being afraid of you?"

Xiao Zihan sighed inwardly. The depth of Wei Tuo's scheming left him silent. Accepting Wei Tuo's challenge at this moment meant that he would involve the entire Ahao Gang in the consequences of killing the Chen brothers. At that time, the grievances from the brothers below would surge like a tide. Even if Xiao Wan Chong took charge again, his prestige would be severely damaged. It seemed that at this moment, Wei Tuo's real purpose became clear to Xiao Zihan, and his mind raced to find a solution. If he couldn't figure it out, it could be extremely detrimental to him.

He was just about to accept when he hesitated. Wei Tuo's challenge at this time wasn't without reason. However, what could it be? Xiao Zihan's brain was rapidly turning. If he couldn't figure it out, it could be very disadvantageous to him. Accepting Wei Tuo's challenge would mean using Ahao Gang to bear the consequences of killing the Chen brothers due to his personal actions. At that time, the complaints from the brothers below would come like a tide, and what would this gang leader do? Even if Xiao Wan Chong took over again, his prestige would be severely damaged. At this moment, Xiao Zihan suddenly felt a cold sweat. Wei Tuo's schemes were deeper than he thought.

At this moment, Xiao Wan Chong walked to Xiao Zihan's side and said, "Zihan, what's your decision? Why not let us hear it?"

Xiao Zihan, looking at Wei Tuo with a smile, replied, "Brother Wei, where exactly is the boundary of this challenge? If it's just against me, Xiao Zihan, personally, I accept it without fear of death. But if, due to my actions, the entire Ahao Gang is dragged into the flames of war, then... forgive me, Xiao Zihan, I absolutely cannot accept it. As for what others might say about me, hehe, let them say it. What do you think, Brother Wei?"

Wei Tuo's face turned terrifyingly dark, and he was extremely unhappy with Xiao Zihan's ambiguous answer. At this moment, he couldn't help but realize that Xiao Zihan, this opponent, was incredibly formidable. Xiao Zihan's takeover of the Ahao Gang seemed more difficult to deal with than even Xiao Wan Chong.

In order not to fall behind, Wei Tuo forced a smile and said, "Brother Xiao's answer, vague as it is, makes it difficult for Wei to understand. It's either yes or no. Why not be straightforward, Brother Xiao?"

Xiao Zihan did not immediately respond; instead, he lifted his head, gazing into the night sky, lost in thought. At that moment, he felt the vastness of the sky, seemingly limitless. Human thoughts, on the other hand, were intricate and difficult to fathom. It was then that he truly understood the urgency of the "Eternal Dao Society" big brother's desire to swiftly eliminate Yue Fei Yang. Though tactics were intangible, their destructive power could be immeasurable.

Turning his gaze back to Wei Tuo, Xiao Zihan remained composed and said, "Since Brother Wei finds it hard to understand, let's handle it your way. Regardless, Brother Wei's purpose has already been achieved, hasn't it?"

Wei Tuo's face turned ashen with anger, but he found himself helpless. Seizing the opportunity while Wei Tuo was speechless, Xiao Zihan looked towards the villa and invited, "Brother Wei, let's not linger outside, neglecting the senior brothers inside. Come, let's discuss matters indoors."

Wei Tuo sighed heavily and, somewhat unwillingly, headed towards the villa's entrance. Of course, his subordinates followed closely behind.

Seeing Wei Tuo trailed by dozens of people, Xiao Zihan wore a bitter smile and said, "Brother Wei, if all your brothers enter, the villa will undoubtedly become overcrowded, and the other senior brothers won't be pleased. How about this? The night outside is perfect. Our brothers are usually busy and rarely have time to appreciate the night. Let's..."

Before he could finish, someone behind Wei Tuo cursed, "Nonsense! Who do you think our big brothers are? What do you take us for? We came here to give you face, but you don't appreciate it."

Xiao Zihan's expression turned stern at the disrespectful words. Until then, he had maintained a smile to give a friendly impression. Now, his eyes closed briefly before snapping open. With that swift motion, the placid expression on Xiao Zihan's face vanished, replaced by a fierce and grave killing intent. His eyes glinted like sharp swords, piercing through the air towards the offender.

The individual's face changed dramatically, unable to withstand the powerful aura emanating from Xiao Zihan, and hurriedly stepped back.

Xiao Zihan extended his finger, pointing at the person with a cold tone, "You, I absolutely do not welcome. Stay here quietly and enjoy the hazy night. Otherwise, you'll be praying for your two lives. Remember, once I decide to act, no one can save you."

Finishing his words, he casually glanced at Wei Tuo, seemingly unaware. You declared war, right? Fine, I accept, just indirectly.

Wei Tuo's eyes were now narrow slits, and his internal fury was evident. He had already fallen into a disadvantageous position. The lack of restraint from his subordinates due to Xiao Zihan's verbal provocation had robbed him of the imposing atmosphere he had created upon arrival. Xiao Zihan, not only formidable in combat but also possessing a mind as sharp as his skills, if not more daunting.

At thirty-five years old, Wei Tuo had spent eight years leading the Xiyeno Gang, and no one had ever been able to gain an upper hand against him. Often, just facing his domineering demeanor would make others lose three points of confidence. Over the eight years, he had become a formidable force in the Liaohei underworld. Among the four major gangs, Xiyeno showed signs of surpassing the others. Wei Tuo himself was an unrivaled hero in the Liaohei underworld.

Initially, upon hearing the news of Xiao Zihan killing the Chen brothers, he was indeed surprised but not overly concerned. Frankly, he did not regard Xiao Zihan highly.

However, after their first confrontation today, he realized that Xiao Zihan was like a towering, steep mountain. Climbing over it would be exceptionally arduous, and a slight misstep might lead to a fatal fall. Yet, Wei Tuo was someone who never accepted defeat. He found Xiao Zihan's challenge invigorating. A mountain that's too easy to climb is not the dream destination for mountaineers. Even if successfully conquered, it lacks the exhilarating sense of achievement. The Wanren Peak is the adventurer's favorite. Xiao Zihan, let me indulge you for a while. We'll see how things unfold.

Due to Wei Tuo's interference, Xiao Zihan's welcome ceremony was delayed by a full fifteen minutes. Still, Xiao Zihan showed no sign of displeasure. His smiling face gave off a warm and pleasant impression.

During the banquet, leaders of various gangs repeatedly toasted Xiao Zihan, hoping to establish good relations. Xiao Zihan, being unfazed, drank heartily. Jiang Cheng sat beside him, in his thirties and older than Xiao Zihan by a fair margin. The two engaged in lively conversation, consuming quite a bit of alcohol. Wei Tuo, sitting across from Xiao Zihan, unusually low-key, was still influential. People vying for his favor were no less than those around Xiao Zihan. Two figures, one from the East and one from the West, faced each other from a distance.