Starting from the imperial palace guards, his clones spread all over the world.

Chapter 574 The World Meeting

The cold rain continued to fall, like indelible tears, onto the ruins of Dongzhou City, which were soaked in mud and despair.

When Liang Jin walked down the city wall.

The heavy city gate slowly opened with a dull rumble, stirring up the murky water and creating ripples that spread outwards.

Following closely beside him was Zhou Baining, the most beautiful woman in the martial arts world of Dongzhou.

Her elegant pale white dress was already covered in mud, like a tainted white lotus, but at this moment, this white lotus stayed close to Liang Jin.

Her entire body was almost pressed against it!

She lowered her head slightly, raindrops sliding down her dark temples, tiny water droplets clinging to her long eyelashes, and a faint yet unwavering flame of dependence strangely burning deep within her still-shaken eyes.

The humiliation and despair atop the city wall were like cold shackles.

The man beside her, as majestic as a mountain and daring to confront the overwhelming power of the Silver Wing Marquis, became the only lifeline she could grasp.

She moved closer to him almost instinctively, as if the domineering power emanating from him could dispel all the gloom that had been cast upon her and the Zhou family.

Below the city gate tower.

A group of well-dressed young men, like bees attracted by nectar, immediately swarmed around them.

They were none other than Zhou Baining's usual suitors, the young masters of various martial arts families in Dongzhou.

Not long ago, they had joined Zhou Baining in distributing porridge to disaster victims.

After Zhou Baining was taken up to the city wall, they waited below.

The sounds of fighting and screams from the city wall had terrified them, but no one dared to go up and investigate. They could only wait anxiously in the mud.

Upon seeing Zhou Baining appear unharmed, everyone's faces immediately filled with concern and eagerness, and they all rushed forward to offer their warm greetings.

"Bai Ning! Are you alright? We were so worried about you!"

"Miss Zhou, did the Marquis give you a hard time? Why do you look so pale?"

"Quick, bring my cloak to shield Miss Zhou from the rain!"

……

However, their concerned words and outstretched hands, when they were still a few steps away from Zhou Bai Ning, seemed to hit an invisible wall and froze in mid-air!

They felt a sense of oppression!

Everyone's gaze subconsciously shifted from Zhou Baining to the tall, fierce-looking man beside her, with a shiny bald head and hideous scars on his face!
He simply stood there, head slightly bowed, as if pondering and planning something.

He didn't even glance at the group of young men.

But whenever the young men looked at him, he felt a tightness in his heart for some reason.

Of course, this is not important.

The important thing is...

Zhou Baining... how could she be so close to such a fierce person?
Such an attitude... is it dependence?!

Jealousy, astonishment, and a hint of anger at being offended sprouted wildly in their hearts like poisonous weeds.

After a brief silence, whispers arose among the group of young masters, as quiet as mosquitoes, filled with sour malice and contemptuous speculation:
"Who...who is that bald guy? Where did he come from? He looks like a notorious bandit!"

"Exactly! He looks fierce, and that scar...tsk tsk, it looks sinister! He's probably a desperate criminal with a dozen or so lives on his hands!"

"How could Miss Zhou be with someone like that? And so close at that? She must have been coerced!"

"Hmph, judging by his clothes, he's dressed in coarse linen and has no background whatsoever. He must be a country bumpkin with no connections or power!"

"How dare an unknown nobody set his sights on Miss Zhou? He's like a toad trying to eat a swan!"

"Let's go! Brothers, let's go up there and make a fool of this barbarian! Let him know that the flower of Dongzhou City isn't someone anyone can touch!"

……

These scions of wealthy families, blinded by jealousy, were used to running rampant because of their family background.

They exchanged glances, rubbed their hands together, and wore malicious sneers, preparing to step forward and "teach" this seemingly just a big, nameless guy a lesson.

at this time--

"Pfft!"

A dull thud, like a heavy object falling to the ground, abruptly broke the group of young masters' brewing provocation.

Everyone turned around in astonishment.

Behind the crowd, Qi Bao, the most handsome and dashing young master who also boasted of his superior martial arts skills, was now slumped in the cold mud like a lump of mud!
His face was ashen, his lips trembled, and there was not a trace of blood in his skin.

Those once charming and amorous peach blossom eyes were now wide open, the pupils contracting violently due to extreme fear, staring intently at the bald giant standing next to Zhou Bai Ning!

That expression was exactly like someone who had seen a vengeful ghost in broad daylight!
"Qi Bao? What's wrong?"

"Hey! Wake up! He's just a bald guy who looks a bit fierce. Is he really that scary to you?"

"Exactly! Didn't you always brag about how you'd seen all the storms at sea with your dad? How come you're such a coward now?"

"Hahaha, so our young master Qi is all show and no substance, all looks and no substance!"

……

After a brief moment of astonishment, his companions launched into merciless laughter and ridicule.

In their eyes, Qi Bao's reaction was utterly absurd and a disgrace to them, a group of young masters from prominent families.

However, Qi Bao ignored the ridicule around him.

His entire world had been swallowed up by boundless fear! The figure of the bald giant before him instantly overlapped with the bloody and terrifying scenes on the East China Sea!

The cold sea breeze, the salty smell of blood!
Even someone as powerful as Uncle Li, the fifth-rank master whom he idolized since childhood, was smashed into a pulp by that man's casual palm strike before he could even scream!

The infamous and demonic "Bone-Scraping Shark" Zhao Laoqi of the Iron Dragon Gang was treated like a chicken waiting to be slaughtered by that man, and his lower jaw was torn off while he was still alive!
And the third young master of the Iron Dragon Gang, who didn't even respect the government, was even more obsequious to that man, hosting banquets and trying his best to please him!

Those scenes, like a red-hot branding iron, are deeply imprinted on his soul!

After Qi Bao narrowly escaped death, he fell seriously ill and suffered from recurring nightmares.

He thought that was the darkest chapter of his life, and that it was over forever.

But fate is cruel!
That demonic figure, that bald man who brought him endless fear, actually appeared alive and well before him again!
Right here in the mud of Dongzhou City!

"Someone I...can't afford to offend..."

Qi Bao's teeth chattered, his voice trembled uncontrollably, and each word sounded like blood and froth squeezed from the depths of his throat:
"That person... is... is someone we can't afford to offend!"

A tremendous fear gripped his throat, so much so that he could only stammer and speak incoherently.

His distraught and incoherent appearance finally calmed the surrounding laughter.

The crowd exchanged bewildered glances, their faces showing seriousness and disbelief for the first time.

Although Qi Bao sometimes likes to boast, he is by no means a coward, and he would not lose his composure like this for no reason.

The fear he was displaying at that moment was deep-seated and undeniable.

The existence that could make Qi Qiye's beloved son fearfully say "I can't afford to offend" must be extraordinary!
Could it be... that fierce-looking bald man really has some extraordinary background?

As if to confirm their suspicions, at that moment—

"Boom!!!"

The city gates were swung wide open, the dull sound like the beating of war drums.

Immediately afterwards, a disciplined and imposing team surged into the city gate like a floodgate opening!

The first to enter were dozens of knights dressed in uniform blue and white sect uniforms.

Their eyes were sharp as eagles, and their aura was deep and fierce.

Horseshoes clattered on the wet flagstones, producing a crisp, rhythmic "tap-tap" sound that carried an invisible, chilling aura.

Wherever they went, all the officials and yamen runners along the way turned pale like mice seeing a cat, and hurriedly moved aside in a panic, not daring to raise their heads, their eyes filled with undisguised fear!

Following closely behind this group of knights was an even larger force!
Among them were martial arts practitioners dressed in various sect costumes, whose auras were equally formidable.

These people, who were usually quite prominent figures in the martial arts world of Dongzhou, all followed behind with respectful expressions.

Further back, there was an endless procession of laborers, shouting and pushing heavy carts loaded with grain!
The grain sacks piled up like mountains, forming a reassuring scene in the rain.

This massive and diverse force stretched as far as the eye could see, like a giant dragon awakening, slowly swimming into this wounded city.

It carries not only life-saving food, but also a revolutionary and suffocatingly powerful force!

Just as this group passed by Liang Jin, a breathtaking scene unfolded!

Whether it was the leading knight, the martial arts masters from various schools behind him, or even the leaders of the laborers pushing the carts.

As they passed Liang Jin, without exception, they all stopped and bowed respectfully and in unison to the bald giant standing silently by the city gate, their voices loud and filled with awe.
"Greetings, Senior Brother Xiong Ba!"

"Greetings, Chief Xiong Ba!"

"I hope Senior Brother Xiong Ba is well!"

……

The greetings from tens of thousands of people rose and fell, converging into a powerful wave of sound that echoed repeatedly over the storm-swept city of Dongzhou.

This scene is like all rivers flowing into the sea, all streams converging on the source.

Beneath the city gate, the group of young noblemen who had initially harbored doubts and even disdain were now completely petrified! The expressions on their faces shifted from surprise and doubt to astonishment, then to utter shock, and finally to a deathly awe!
Thousands upon thousands bowed respectfully!

Even the martial arts masters from those sects who treated their fathers with utmost respect bowed down to this bald man!
This person's status... is actually so high?!
This is by no means a hero of a single city or region, but a behemoth capable of stirring up a storm in the region!

The power he wields far surpasses that of their proud family background!

Recalling Qi Bao's ghost-like fear and incoherent warnings... everything now has the most reasonable, yet most chilling, explanation!
Cold sweat instantly soaked through the rich brocade undershirts of these young masters.

Their gazes toward Liang Jin were filled with unprecedented solemnity, awe, and a hint of indescribable fear.

Those frivolous thoughts and provocative impulses from just now have long been crushed by this overwhelming force!
They instinctively took a half step back, as if being further away from the menacing bald man would make them a little safer.

"Quickly! Investigate immediately! Find out exactly who this 'Xiong Ba' is!"

Several quick-witted young masters whispered instructions to their equally terrified servants, their voices trembling.

They needed to know just what kind of unimaginable demon had arrived in Dongzhou City!

the other side.

Liang Jin was completely unaware of the small psychological earthquake that he had unintentionally triggered at the city gate.

Or rather, he simply didn't bother to pay attention to the ant-like gazes and thoughts of these people.

His entire focus was already on the myriad tasks of disaster relief.

He extended his thick, tree-trunk-like fingers, pointing towards the tallest building complex in Dongzhou City, and instructed Xie Wuwei, who stood solemnly beside him awaiting orders:

"I want to set up the disaster relief headquarters there. You take some men and buy the place for me."

Xie Wuwei stood aside, respectfully taking notes.

Liang Jin continued his instructions, speaking quickly and clearly:
"Once all the money and grain have been transported to the warehouse, immediately have Steward Zhao of the Central Treasury Hall personally take charge! Assign the most capable and reliable disciples to work in three shifts, day and night, to count, register, and record the grain! Every instance of money and grain entering or leaving the warehouse must be signed and sealed by at least two people! In the distribution process, detailed regulations will be formulated according to the district and the severity of the disaster, and respected elders selected from each district will supervise the collection to ensure that the grain truly reaches the hands of the starving people."

Liang Jin pointed to the vast expanse of water within the city:
"Clearing the silt and dredging the waterways are the top priorities! Ordinary disciples, immediately form groups and lead the recruited laborers to work in sections! I have already ordered the tools to be made on the way and they will arrive soon. Within three days, we must drain the water from the city."

"Furthermore, a major epidemic is bound to follow the flood. I have already contacted the chief leader of the Taiping Dao in Dongzhou. The Taiping Dao has unique expertise in disease prevention and control. You should arrange for Steward Sun of Baihuatang to personally liaise with the Taiping Dao. At the same time, set up epidemic prevention medicine sheds throughout the city and distribute free medicine! Organize manpower to clean up and bury the dead animals and filth! This matter is of paramount importance and cannot be taken lightly!"

"in addition……"

With a clear mind, Liang Jin issued instructions one after another like flowing water, quickly assembling and starting up the massive disaster relief machinery.

His massive body stood tall in the wind and rain, like a pillar of strength, radiating a powerful and reassuring presence.

Xie Wuwei wrote down Liang Jin's every instruction clearly and fluently.

Zhou Baining stood quietly beside Liang Jin, so close that she could feel the vibration of his chest as he spoke.

She opened her mouth slightly several times, wanting to express her willingness to serve and to fight for a chance for the family to survive, but she was interrupted by Liang Jin's focused and decisive deployment.

Looking at his profile, so composed and decisive, and at his tireless efforts for this ravaged city, Zhou Baining's dependence on him quietly gave rise to an indescribable...admiration.

Or rather, it is an aspiration for great power and responsibility.

She finally seized the opportunity when Liang Jin paused to deploy his troops, mustered her courage, and stepped forward, her voice clear yet trembling slightly:

"Brother Xiong Ba!"

She took a deep breath, as if using all her strength, and said clearly:
"I, Zhou Baining, am willing to lead the entire Zhou family to serve the Dragon Transformation Gate!"

"From this day forward, all of the Zhou family's money, provisions, manpower, and assets are at the disposal of Brother Xiong Ba and the Hualong Sect! Without question!"

"I...I am also willing to serve you! Whatever it is, as long as you give the order, Bai Ning will do her best! Please...please give me and the Zhou family this opportunity!"

She adopted a very humble posture, even with a hint of pleading.

Zhou Baining knew very well that from the moment she chose to follow Liang Jin down the city wall and completely break with Marquis Yinyi Shi Danqin, her fate and that of the entire Zhou family were firmly tied to this bald giant.

He was her only lifeline and the only way out for the Zhou family.

If he rejects or abandons them, what awaits the Zhou family is Shi Danqin's merciless and devastating revenge!

Liang Jin's eyes, like searchlights, fell on Zhou Baining's exquisite face.

He didn't answer immediately. Instead, he stretched out his large, bony hand and, with an irresistible force that seemed to scrutinize an object, gently pinched Zhou Baining's delicate chin.

Zhou Baining stiffened slightly, but did not resist.

She could feel the slight pain and warmth from the rough fingertips.

Liang Jin used a little force to lift her face, turning it left and right, and looking her up and down.

His gaze was sharp, calm, and even carried a hint of assessment as it slowly swept over her smooth forehead, delicate nose, picturesque eyebrows and eyes, and full cherry lips, as if he were appraising a rare and beautiful jade.

But she lacked the infatuation and desire that ordinary men showed when facing her.

This gaze made Zhou Bai Ning feel uneasy, yet also gave her a strange feeling of being taken seriously.

A moment later, Liang Jin released his grip, a satisfied smile on his face, and nodded.

"Yes, it is indeed very beautiful, living up to its reputation."

"She has a good temperament, is clean, and makes people feel comfortable and approachable."

He paused, his gaze becoming serious:
"Miss Zhou, you've come at just the right time."

"I do have something important to do, and it has to be with you."

Of all the women Liang Jin's clone had ever seen, the most beautiful was undoubtedly the sect leader, Yu Linglong. She was like the moon in the heavens, unattainable, aloof, stunningly beautiful, and high above everyone else.

Zhou Baining, on the other hand, is firmly in second place.

She was like a fairy flower fallen to earth, breathtakingly beautiful, yet possessing the approachable charm of human life.

After her, all the other women paled in comparison, falling far short.

Liang Jin's landing was not for killing and conquest, but for the grand strategy of disaster relief.

By providing disaster relief and saving lives, we can win people's hearts and build our reputation, thereby influencing the entire Southeast and even the whole country.

Among these factors, "image" is of paramount importance.

The Hualongmen itself is too mysterious, even carrying a bit of a "bad reputation," so it needs an "ambassador" who is very approachable, widely known, and can quickly close the distance with the public.

The most precious jade pendant is the jade, so naturally it cannot be shown in public.

As for Liang Jin himself?

His fierce and menacing appearance, capable of stopping children from crying at night, will only scare away the disaster victims, backfiring on his efforts.

Finding an "ambassador" who has sufficient prestige and influence, a positive and approachable image, and whom he can firmly control, was a significant challenge in his plan.

Zhou Baining's appearance was simply a godsend!

The title of the most beautiful woman in the martial arts world of Dongzhou is itself a shining signboard with enormous influence.

Her appearance and demeanor naturally possess a strong affinity and attraction, making it easy for her to gain the favor and trust of the public.

Most importantly, she has now voluntarily surrendered, entrusting her life and fortune to his own hands, making her easy to control.

This problem is easily solved!

Upon hearing Liang Jin's affirmative reply, Zhou Baining felt a huge weight lifted from her heart. Her beautiful eyes instantly lit up with a captivating light, and she hurriedly said:
"Brother Xiong Ba, please give your orders!"

"It is an honor for Bai Ning and the Zhou family to be able to contribute to disaster relief and share the burden for Brother Xiong Ba. There is absolutely no trouble involved!"

Liang Jin smiled and nodded slightly.

To maximize the use of Zhou Baining's "golden brand," a professional team is needed to carefully plan and package the brand, and develop a detailed strategy.

This is not something that can be achieved overnight.

He seemed to have thought of something, turned his head, and continued to give instructions to Xie Wuwei, who was standing solemnly to the side:
"Thank you, Junior Brother. There's one more thing."

"Later, once everyone has settled in, we will convene a meeting of all the leaders of the major sects that have joined the disaster relief alliance, the heads of the various merchant guilds, and the patriarchs of the prominent local gentry and clans!"

He surveyed the massive army, still pouring in and representing various forces from the Eastern Continent, a grand glint in his eyes, and his voice unconsciously rose a few decibels:

"We can give them a heads-up beforehand. In addition to discussing specific disaster relief matters and coordinating efforts from all parties, there's another important matter to be decided at tonight's meeting!"

"Although our disaster relief alliance was initiated by my Hualong Sect, disaster relief and helping those in need are matters of natural justice and public sentiment! It is by no means a matter for my Hualong Sect alone, nor is it the achievement of Xiong Ba alone!"

His gaze swept over Xie Wuwei, over the Hualongmen disciples listening around him, and over the people from various factions who had just entered the city and were standing there watching.

"This is the common cause of the entire Dongzhou, even the entire southeastern coast, and even... of all those in the world who have compassion and pity for the common people!"

"We need to gather all the goodwill and resources in the world to help the people suffering from this disaster and get through this catastrophe!"

He paused for a moment, as if gathering his strength, or as if sensing the countless gazes converging from all around him.

The wind and rain seemed to have lessened at that moment, and everyone's attention was drawn to the powerful will in his words.

Liang Jin abruptly raised his arm, pointing to the gloomy sky, his voice booming like a great bell, resounding before the wind-swept gates of Dongzhou City:

"Therefore! I propose—"

"Our disaster relief alliance brings together the strength of the world to help all people."

"Let's name it—"

"The World Assembly!"

The world will meet!
These three words, like three thunderclaps, exploded in the wind and rain!

With an overwhelming and majestic aura that encompasses the four seas and conquers the eight wastelands, it was instantly imprinted in the hearts of everyone present!
(End of this chapter)