Espionage codename: Shen Gongbao

Chapter 156 My Brother's Life is My Life

Wang Xuesen returned to his office, his mind racing with thoughts.

Kill Yu Yefeng and Zhang Xiaolin.

Killing two birds with one stone, Old Li has really got a big appetite this time.

Wang Xuesen originally intended to use the chaos of the stage renovation to get rid of Yu Yefeng, cut off his influence in the pharmaceutical and dance hall sectors, and then help Zhang Fayao to the table.

Zhang Xiaolin is getting old.

But these old things also have their advantages.

As long as he is alive, the Green Gang of Shanghai will have a pillar of strength.

If Zhang Xiaolin dies tonight, the Green Gang will be thrown into chaos, and Li Shiqun might even take everything away.

He wasn't entirely confident that he could protect Zhang Xiaolin.

Wang Xuesen lit a cigarette and took a puff.

Interestingly, Lao Liu will be there tonight, which presents a perfect opportunity.

Liu Zhongwen is a very cunning and scheming man.

If this kind of person stays by Li Shiqun's side, he will eventually figure out the secrets of the Military Intelligence Bureau.

It must be eliminated.

This opportunity won't come again!

Wang Xuesen exhaled a puff of smoke, picked up the phone, and dialed a number.

The phone rang a few times before being answered.

"Old Lin, come to my office."

After hanging up the phone, he stubbed out his cigarette, opened a drawer, and took out a map of the Shanghai International Settlement, spreading it out on the table.

Tonight's assassination is not a simple one.

It's a group of people risking their lives on the same stage.

Yu Yefeng's men wanted to kill Zhang Xiaolin.

Zhang Xiaolin wanted to use No. 76 to kill Yu Yefeng.

Li Shiqun wanted to use people from Linzhijiang to send Zhang and Yu away together.

Wang Xuesen not only had to save his own life, but also protect Zhang Xiaolin, eliminate Yu Yefeng, and then kill Liu Zhongwen as well.

It was a complete mess.

But the more chaotic things are, the more opportunities there are to fish in troubled waters.

As long as it's the fish you want.

Two soft knocks sounded from outside the door.

"Enter."

Lin Zhijiang pushed the door open and locked it from the inside.

"Boss."

Wang Xuesen pointed to the chair: "Sit."

Lin Zhijiang didn't sit down, but walked up to him and said, "Old Wang has found out everything."

"Fan Huichun has joined forces with Yu Yefeng, and they have arranged for more than thirty axemen to be stationed at the Gengxin Theater tonight."

"The people split into two groups."

"There was a group of plainclothes officers hiding in the front row stalls, and another group mixed in with the backstage staff."

"We're just waiting to swarm in and kill Zhang Xiaolin and you, boss."

Wang Xuesen was not surprised.

He held a corner of the map and tapped it lightly.

"Anything else?"

Lin Zhijiang continued, "Yu Yefeng said that Japanese and foreigners would be watching the play tonight, and to ensure safety, he would set up a checkpoint at the theater entrance."

"Zhang Xiaolin's White Russian guards and his Green Gang gunmen had to surrender their weapons before entering the door."

"It looks like anyone who goes in will die."

"The situation is not good."

"Li Shiqun plans to send your men over to assassinate Yu Yefeng tonight," Wang Xuesen said, glancing at him.

Lin Zhijiang paused for a moment: "Send our people?"

"That's right." Wang Xuesen nodded.

Lin Zhijiang's eyes turned cold: "Is he using us as knives, cutting us down and then throwing the knives back into the river?"

Wang Xuesen said calmly, "Which of Old Li's knives isn't used this way?"

Lin Zhijiang cursed, "Damn it."

Wang Xuesen raised his hand to urge them on: "No need to rush."

"I agree to this."

Lin Zhijiang looked at him with some confusion.

Wang Xuesen said, "If Yu Yefeng doesn't die, our Military Intelligence Bureau won't be able to break through the situation."

"Even if Li Shiqun didn't send us today, we would still have to arrange for our own people to take action. Once we miss this opportunity, it will be hard to come by again."

Lin Zhijiang understood.

He said in a deep voice, "Old Wang and Cheng Ziguang, the owner of Gengxin Grand Stage, are close friends."

"Cheng Ziguang owes Lao Wang a life."

"Old Wang said that he could bury the guns in advance if we needed them."

"There are ways to get around: backstage wardrobes, the tea room, and even under the stage."

Lin Zhijiang took a step forward, a ruthless glint in his eyes: "I'll handle this personally."

"We're stuck at number 76 every day, watching Lao Wang and Lao Si handle things at the company. The brothers are all getting anxious."

""

Wang Xuesen shook his head and smiled: "You can't do it."

"Does the boss not believe in my marksmanship?" Lin Zhijiang frowned.

"If I didn't trust you, I wouldn't have called you here today."

Wang Xuesen looked at him and said, "It's precisely because we trust you that you can't show your face."

"You still hold the title of the chief of Operations Team 76."

"It would be easy to trace it back to us."

Lin Zhijiang frowned: "Then who should we send?"

Wang Xuesen tapped his fingers twice on the table: "Fourth brother."

Lin Zhijiang's expression changed: "Fourth brother?"

"His child was just born not long ago."

"Boss, this kind of work is too risky. Wouldn't it be too dangerous to send Lao Si?"

Wang Xuesen looked down at the map.

Of course he knew that the fourth brother's family had a newborn child.

When the child turned one month old, he even sent someone a small gold lock as a gift.

"I have my reasons."

"The fourth brother is skilled in martial arts and quick-witted."

"He used to work at No. 76, and now his status is relatively relaxed, so he can both explain himself to Zhang Xiaolin and have room to maneuver."

"More importantly, he now often works at Yang Hongchang Hospital."

"Yu Yefeng blocked the hospital's drug supply, and Yang Hongchang's daughter was coerced, so it makes sense that she turned against him."

"If something really happens, it could be said that Yang Hongchang secretly hired someone to take revenge on Yu Yefeng."

Linzhijiang remained silent.

Wang Xuesen continued, "Yang Hongchang has connections with the French Municipal Council."

"The more power we gain, the more room we have to maneuver."

"From the perspective of status alone, the fourth brother has a much easier time than you."

Lin Zhijiang still looked reluctant: "Boss, will Fourth Brother be alright?"

Wang Xuesen glanced at him.

I can't assure you that everything will be alright.

Lin Zhijiang's heart sank.

Wang Xuesen continued, "But I will pave all the roads that can be paved."

"Tell Fourth Brother."

"If something happens to him, his son will be my son, Wang Xuesen's son."

"His mother is my mother."

"I will take care of his elderly mother until her death."

"I will support his wife and children from now on."

Lin Zhijiang's lips moved, but he didn't say anything.

"Also, I told the fourth brother that he must wear an iron vest," Wang Xuesen said.

"Hide your gun well, and know the way well."

"The first shot was fired at Yu Yefeng."

"If the situation becomes chaotic, a second shot can be fired, or it can be left undone."

"Never be greedy."

"Even if he's injured, we can still kill him in the hospital."

Lin Zhijiang nodded: "I will convey your words exactly as they were."

Wang Xuesen's gaze fell on the map, and he said worriedly, "What I'm afraid of now is that Li Shiqun may have other tricks up his sleeve."

"Regardless of whether Lao Si hits the target tonight, Li Shiqun may send someone to infiltrate the group and silence them."

"So besides the fourth brother, I will also have Lao Wang arrange for a few brothers from the Loyalty Hall to provide support around the theater."

"Zhan Shen will also be keeping a close eye on things secretly."

Wang Xuesen reached out and tapped the location of the main hall of the updated stage on the map.

"There's one more thing."

"That's also why I have to use the fourth one."

"When Lao Si left No. 76, it was Li Shiqun who made me play the villain."

"On the surface, it's perfectly reasonable for the fourth brother to hold a grudge against me."

"If I get the chance tonight, I'll make him shoot me."

Lin Zhijiang's expression changed drastically: "This—"

Wang Xuesen raised his hand to stop him: "Let me finish."

He didn't hit me.

"It was Liu Zhongwen, who was next to me, who was shot."

Lin Zhijiang immediately understood what Wang Xuesen was thinking.

"Is Liu Zhongwen going?"

Wang Xuesen nodded: "If we don't get rid of this person, he'll ruin our big plans sooner or later."

"The theater was in chaos tonight. Once the gunshot rang out, no one could say for sure where the bullet came from."

"The fourth brother harbored a grudge against me and shot me, which was exactly what everyone expected."

"It's Liu Zhongwen in real life."

"It would be better if he were dead."

"If he's not dead, he'll be bedridden for a while."

Lin Zhijiang took a deep breath.

This step is too risky.

If the gun had been just a little off, Wang Xuesen would have been hit by a bullet.

But he also knew that this was a rare opportunity.

Liu Zhongwen usually keeps to himself and has Li Shiqun's men protecting him, so it's difficult to touch him.

If he were to sit next to Wang Xuesen tonight, he would become the only sitting duck.

Lin Zhijiang said in a deep voice, "The boss has already gotten himself involved, what else can I say?"

"Just do it."

Wang Xuesen picked up a red pencil and drew a line on the map: "After the fight, Lao Si should not go towards the main gate."

"Don't try to pull strings or use connections."

"Yu Yefeng's people know the backing best; that's suicide."

"Tell him to go towards the back door on the west side of the renovated stage."

"Get out from here, go through this narrow alley, and run towards Yangjingbang."

Linzhijiang leaned closer to take a look.

Wang Xuesen continued, "At that time, a team of foreign police officers from the International Settlement will come by."

"The people have been taken care of."

"They would pretend to arrest Lao Si, but in reality, they would block the pursuit of Li Shiqun's men, the Japanese military police, and the Green Gang assassins under Yu Yefeng."

"Foreign police officers are slow and have many procedures. If you argue a bit or stop them a few times, the time will be up."

"Given the fourth brother's skills, as long as someone can hold him off for half an incense stick's time, it won't be difficult for him to escape."

Lin Zhijiang memorized the route perfectly.

Wang Xuesen pushed the map towards him: "You personally lead the brothers to ambush along the border river."

"here."

He pointed with his finger.

"If the fourth brother is really being chased too closely and can't escape, then you should lead your men to jump out."

"Never mind who's on the other end."

"Whether it was Li Shiqun's men, the Japanese military police, or the Green Gang's knife-wielders."

"Beat all those who block the road."

Lin Zhijiang looked up at him, his face filled with astonishment: "So, boss, doesn't that mean you've completely fallen out with Li Shiqun?"

Wang Xuesen calmly said, "After I leave the stage, I will go to the US Embassy."

Lin Zhijiang's expression tightened.

Wang Xuesen said, "If you really make a move, I won't go back to No. 76."

"Everything we've built up to this point is now worthless."

"No matter what, we must ensure the safety of the fourth brother at all costs."

"At worst, we can start over."

"Running gangs, making money through illegal trades. In all of Shanghai, surely we brothers have food to eat?"

Lin Zhijiang's eyes instantly turned red.

He had worked in the Military Intelligence Bureau and also spent time in the quagmire of the 76th Division.

I've seen too many superiors treat their subordinates like toilet paper, using them and then throwing them away.

Anyone can say nice things.

But when it comes to actually giving up official positions, financial opportunities, and connections, how many people are willing to do so?

Wang Xuesen was willing to give it up.

For the sake of the fourth child.

For the sake of one of his brothers.

Lin Zhijiang braced his hands on the edge of the table and said in a deep voice, "Boss, is it worth it?"

Wang Xuesen looked at him and suddenly smiled.

"Old Lin, money can be earned back."

"If we lose the game, we can take it back."

"But there's only one fourth brother in the world."

"It's only you guys who are brothers."

Lin Zhijiang lowered his head and blinked hard.

He didn't want to shed tears in front of Wang Xuesen, but the burning sensation in his chest was unbearable.

After a moment, he raised his head and said hoarsely, "With the boss's words, we brothers can die without regret."

Wang Xuesen frowned: "Stop saying such unlucky things."

"What I want is for you to live."

"They are all living comfortably and like human beings."

"Stop talking about death all the time."

Lin Zhijiang, his eyes red, replied, "Yes."

Wang Xuesen folded the map and handed it to him: "I should have personally explained these things to Lao Si."

"But Li Shiqun is too meticulous. I'm afraid he'll send someone to keep an eye on me, so it's not advisable for me to see him in person now."

"Go and tell them."

"Say every sentence clearly."

"The route, the time, the firing position, the retreat direction—there can be no mistakes whatsoever."

Lin Zhijiang carefully put the map away from his body: "Don't worry, it's definitely correct."

Wang Xuesen then took out a small paper package from the drawer and pushed it over: "Inside are two temporary passes for the police station and a key."

"The key corresponds to a small warehouse next to the Yangjingbang River."

"There were plainclothes officers, hats, two suitcases, and a sum of cash in the warehouse."

"If the fourth brother goes in to change clothes, he will come out by water."

Lin Zhijiang solemnly accepted it.

Wang Xuesen patted him on the shoulder.

"Go."

Lin Zhijiang took a step back, then suddenly stood up straight and bowed to him: "Boss, I thank you on behalf of Lao Si."

Wang Xuesen waved his hand: "No need to thank me."

"If Fourth Brother comes back alive, I'll treat him to a drink."

Lin Zhijiang nodded, turned around and went out.

The door closed gently.

Wang Xuesen stood there for a long time before slowly exhaling.

Everything has been arranged.

But the unease in my heart didn't dissipate; instead, it grew stronger.

Wang Xuesen rubbed his temples.

What's wrong?

This feeling is deadly.

He paced a few steps before suddenly stopping: "No."

"It's still not stable enough."

Wang Xuesen turned around, picked up the phone, and dialed his home number.

After ringing a few times, the call was answered.

"Wan'er, it's me."

"I'm not going home for dinner tonight; I have to go to the stage to watch the play."

"Oh, right."

"Didn't I say this morning that I've been having nightmares a lot lately?"

"Go to Old Du's place and buy me some strong medicine to calm my nerves."

"Yes, the stronger the effect, the better."

"Otherwise, I'll be having nightmares all day long, and I won't be able to stand it during the day."

"If you're free, go and catch him soon. It's been raining a lot lately, so his shop closes early."

hang up the phone.

Wang Xuesen began to ponder it.

He knew that Lao Du had an armed force.

It's very likely to be red, and definitely sharp and capable.

Last night, he and Wanjia spent a long time designing on the map, and Wanjia knew the route that the fourth brother would take.

If Lao Du's side can send some of their forces to provide support.

The fourth brother's life will undoubtedly be more secure.

Thinking of this, Wang Xuesen breathed a sigh of relief.

The smell of cigarette smoke still lingered in Li Shiqun's office.

There was a knock on the door.

"Come in."

The door was pushed open.

Liu Zhongwen, dressed in a dark blue long gown, walked in: "Director."

Li Shiqun looked up at him and said, "Sit down."

Zhang Xiaolin invited me to see a play tonight.

Liu Zhongwen said, "The director doesn't plan to go in person."

"It won't look good if I go."

"Yu Yefeng is clearly not going to give me any face. If I go, I will only be humiliated by him, become a target, and add to the chaos."

He paused for a moment, then continued, "I've already had Wang Xuesen arrange for people from Linzhijiang to get rid of Yu Yefeng."

"They were originally from the Military Intelligence Bureau. They're better at this kind of dirty work than those useless scumbags in our building who only know how to scare people."

Liu Zhongwen frowned.

He disliked Wang Xuesen, not because Wang Xuesen was eloquent, good at making money, or good at pleasing Li Shiqun and his wife.

What really made him uncomfortable was the increasing number of people around Wang Xuesen.

Some people gather around one person because of self-interest.

Some people are willing to risk their lives for that person.

The latter is the most troublesome.

Seeing that he remained silent, Li Shiqun continued, "But sending only Wang Xuesen wouldn't be enough."

"Those present tonight are not just members of the Green Gang."

"The Japanese, the Municipal Council of the Concession, the Chamber of Commerce, banks, dance hall owners—everyone's watching."

"If I don't show my face, someone else has to sit there for me."

Liu Zhongwen said, "The director wants me to go in your place."

Li Shiqun, with a cigarette between his fingers, slowly exhaled a puff of smoke: "Yes."

"But you should know that I'm letting you go not just to watch the play."

"The director gave the order," Liu Zhongwen said calmly.

Li Shiqun's voice turned serious: "I'm afraid the people from Linzhijiang won't be efficient in their work."

"If necessary, you must step in and finish off Yu Yefeng."

"This man must die tonight."

Liu Zhongwen nodded: "Understood."

Li Shiqun added, "Furthermore, I have already instructed Wang Xuesen to take the opportunity to kill Zhang Xiaolin."

Liu Zhongwen's gaze behind his glasses shifted slightly.

This is the biggest killer move tonight.

Yu Yefeng's death was like pruning a branch.

Zhang Xiaolin's death is what truly matters in cutting down trees.

Only when this old tree falls will there be a chance for the Shanghai Green Gang's territory to be redistributed.

I was right about Li Shiqun.

He was indeed ambitious and driven.

Li Shiqun stared at Liu Zhongwen: "I'm afraid this kid won't be able to handle Zhang Xiaolin."

"Does the director suspect that he has ulterior motives and wants to protect Zhang Xiaolin?" Liu Zhongwen suddenly became more talkative when this was mentioned.

He continued, "That's very possible."

"Think about it, if he can get his hands on American goods, his connections must be more complicated than we think."

"Moreover, as far as I know, he also has private dealings with Wang Tianmu."

"Yu Yefeng is dead, so he can get a share of the spoils."

"Zhang Xiaolin is dead. The biggest beneficiary is you, Director. If Wang Xuesen has ulterior motives, he will have a hard time getting a share of the pie."

O

"Of course, he wanted Zhang Xiaolin to live."

Li Shiqun chuckled. "That's possible, but I'm more worried that the assassins he arranged weren't capable enough."

Liu Zhongwen frowned.

Li Shiqun downplayed the main issues, clearly indicating that he still wouldn't listen to his advice and placed great trust in Wang Xuesen.

"What are the director's plans?" he asked.

"Wang Lin has a special training team of ten people under his command, and they are extremely skilled."

"I'm handing everything over to you tonight."

Li Shiqun said.

"Full authority?" Liu Zhongwen seemed to be making a confirmation.

Li Shiqun looked at him and smiled, "It's entirely up to you."

Liu Zhongwen nodded slowly: "Don't worry, Director."

"In tonight's stage update, Yu Yefeng will die, and Zhang Xiaolin will also die."

"If any of Linzhijiang's assassins survive, I will deal with them thoroughly."

"You're not going to target Wang Xuesen again, are you?" Li Shiqun reminded him, as he desperately needed Wang Xuesen right now.

Liu Zhongwen raised his eyes and said calmly, "Director, you're overthinking it."

"I have no other hobbies. It's rare to meet a worthy opponent. How could I bear to let him die so soon?"

Li Shiqun chuckled, "You certainly appreciate talent."

Liu Zhongwen said calmly, "It's not about valuing talent."

"He died too young; he wasn't interesting enough."

He paused, then added, "But it's him; he'll probably make a move against me tonight."

Li Shiqun's smile deepened: "Are you afraid?"

Liu Zhongwen also laughed: "Given his courage, it's not surprising that he would have this idea."

"But whether he has the ability to kill me is another matter."

Li Shiqun leaned back and nodded, saying, "I believe you."

"In the cramped environment of a theater, killing you at close range is practically impossible."

"You are a descendant of Li Shuwen."

"A true master of killing techniques! Far beyond the likes of Wang Lin."

"I haven't done this in a long time, so I'm afraid I'll get rusty." Liu Zhongwen smiled and turned to leave.

Li Shiqun suddenly called out to him again.

"Zhongwen".

Liu Zhongwen stopped and turned around.

Li Shiqun said, "If things really get chaotic tonight, don't hold back."

"Whoever blocks the way, dies."

Liu Zhongwen nodded: "Yes."

Zhang Mansion.

Zhang Xiaolin lay on a rattan chair, covered with a thin blanket, holding a water pipe and smoking.

His eyes were closed, and there was no sign of tension on his face.

Tonight will be a life-or-death situation.

But this old Shanghai tycoon seemed to be attending just an ordinary gathering.

Ah Si strode in, his face not looking too good: "Master, we've found out."

Zhang Xiaolin didn't open his eyes. "Speak."

Ah Si lowered his voice: "The Fan brothers have sided with Yu Yefeng."

1

"Not long ago, they secretly met at the Huaqing Pool bathhouse."

"The stage setup for tonight's update has probably been planned in advance."

"We've also received news from Liu Fabao's side."

"Li Shiqun had Wang Xuesen arrange assassins, but I'm afraid Li Shiqun will take the opportunity to attack you, killing two birds with one stone."

"Both Yu Yefeng and Li Shiqun are now at a disadvantage for us."

"Sir, you must be careful."

Zhang Xiaolin opened his eyes, his expression fierce, and said, "There's no advantage or disadvantage."

"At the table in Shanghai, who doesn't secretly hide a knife in their sleeve while offering a toast?"

Ah Si said, "Master, how about we don't go tonight?"

"The situation is too dire."

"Not going?" Zhang Xiaolin sneered.

"If I don't go, Yu Yefeng can use tonight's performance to make himself the new leader."

"How will I be able to control him then?"

Ah Si said urgently, "But they clearly want to kill you."

Zhang Xiaolin handed the water pipe to the maid beside him and slowly sat up: "They want to kill me, but they're still a bit short of the mark."

These words, though not harsh, reassured Ah Si.

He had known Zhang Xiaolin for many years and knew the old man's temper very well.

Zhang Xiaolin is greedy, ruthless, and vicious, but he also values ​​his life.

He would never have put himself on the stage if he wasn't absolutely certain.

Zhang Xiaolin raised his hand: "Go and call Lin Huaibu."

Ah Si responded and turned to leave.

Not long after, Lin Huaibu walked in: "Master Zhang."

Zhang Xiaolin stared at him for a moment. "Is the security team all ready?"

Lin Huaibu hurriedly replied, "Everything is ready; we can depart at any time."

Zhang Xiaolin suddenly smiled: "We can set off? Are you sure?"

Lin Huaibu was stunned: "Master Zhang, what do you mean by that—"

Zhang Xiaolin took the teacup that A Si handed him and took a sip: "I heard that your mother has been admitted to the special care ward."

"The president of Renji Hospital personally organized the consultation; that's quite a show of power."

Lin Huaibu's back tensed up immediately.

As Wang Xuesen had predicted, the old thief would seize on this matter and make a fuss about it.

Fortunately, the boss was very meticulous.

Otherwise, I'm afraid I'll be stumped by the questions tonight and won't be able to stay hidden by that old dog's side anymore.

"Master Zhang, I—" He was about to speak.

Zhang Xiaolin interrupted him: "I remember you didn't have money to treat your mother's illness before, right? The special care wards at Renji Hospital are not cheap; they're not places that ordinary people can afford."

"Master Zhang, I borrowed more than three thousand yuan from the money exchange," Lin Huaibu quickly explained.

"I paid someone to find Li Jun, the head of surgery at the hospital."

"Li Jun is well-connected in the hospital, so my mother received some preferential treatment."

"As for Dean Yang Hongchang, I don't know why he thinks highly of me."

"But—maybe I mentioned your bodyguard's title."

"He respected you, but he was also afraid of you, which is why he was willing to help."

He dared not hide anything and confessed everything.

"Really? Ah Si, give Director Li a call. He's an old acquaintance. Ask him for details." Zhang Xiaolin ordered in a shrill voice.

Ah Si walked to the telephone and made a call in front of the two of them.

After hanging up, he said, "Director Li Jun said that it was indeed his arrangement, purely out of respect for you."

Ah Si continued to speak well of Lin Huaibu: "After all, Abu is your personal bodyguard. Everyone who comes and goes in this mansion knows him, and no one would dare to disrespect him."

After a moment's thought, Zhang Xiaolin nodded: "Hmm, that's possible."

"Abu."

"I was planning to pay you the money after these few days."

"I didn't expect you to solve it yourself first."

"Alright."

Zhang Xiaolin smiled kindly.

"Now that you have no worries, come with me to the opera tonight."

"I don't think I can bring the gun in."

"At that time, it will all depend on your eyesight," he instructed.

Lin Huaibu quickly cupped his hands in greeting: "Don't worry, Master Zhang, I'll risk my life to protect you."

Zhang Xiaolin nodded in satisfaction: "If you keep me safe, I will raise your salary to fifty silver dollars starting next month."

"Add another 30 jin of rice every month."

Lin Huaibu immediately forced a smile and said, "Thank you, Master Zhang."

"Thank you for your guidance, Mr. Zhang!"

He was bent over, but his eyes were so cold they seemed to want to kill.

Fifty silver dollars.

Thirty catties of rice.

They trade human lives for profit, yet in the end they think they've bestowed upon someone an immense favor.

Following this kind of person will lead to absolutely no future.

Zhang Xiaolin didn't look at him again, but waved his hand and said, "Go and get ready."

8 PM.

The area in front of the newly renovated stage is brightly lit.

It's still raining.

The entrance, however, was bustling with traffic.

Everyone knows that tonight's performance is not just about listening to opera.

The dispute between Zhang and Yu has escalated to the point where bloodshed is inevitable.

The Public Works Department police had set up a cordon in front of the door, while Yu Chu Jiu's men stood on both sides of the steps, dressed in short, tight-fitting clothes, with fierce eyes.

Wang Xuesen got out of the car and looked up at the sign for the newly renovated stage.

He doesn't like listening to opera.

This is my first time visiting this place.

Zhan Shen held the umbrella and followed behind him.

He had just reached the door when he saw Liu Zhongwen standing by the steps.

Liu Zhongwen, dressed in a long gown and carrying a black umbrella, looked even more gloomy and frightening.

"Director Liu, I'm so grateful to have you here tonight," Wang Xuesen greeted him.

"We're all doing things for the director, why should we, as family, talk about benefiting from his position?"

"Please."

Liu Zhongwen said calmly.

Wang Xuesen smiled and raised his hand: "Please go first."

Liu Zhongwen glanced at him. "Director Wang is young and promising, you go first."

Wang Xuesen clicked his tongue: "Director Liu, you're being too polite."

"You're a senior colleague of the director, how could I dare to go before you?"

Liu Zhongwen said, "Then let's go together."

The two entered side by side.

The search at the entrance was extremely thorough.

The security guards patted each person down, and Yu Chu Jiu's men also kept a close watch on them.

Sleeves, waist, boot tops, even the inner lining of the hat are not spared.

When Zhan Shen was searched, he remained calm.

Wang Xuesen opened his arms and let him search him, then smiled and asked, "Mr. Yu's injuries haven't healed yet, but you've already come out to greet guests. This kind of filial piety is rare."

Yu Chu Jiu's cheek twitched: "Thanks to Director Wang, I won't die."

Wang Xuesen laughed and said, "It's good that you're not dead."

Yu Chu Jiu stared at him coldly, without saying anything more.

Wang Xuesen didn't press the matter and went into the auditorium with Liu Zhongwen.

The theater was brightly lit.

The front row seats were already quite full, and although the gongs and drums hadn't sounded on stage yet, the backstage was already filled with the sounds of singing and practicing.

Yu Yefeng stood at the front aisle, greeting the guests like a host tonight.

Wang Xuesen walked over and cupped his hands in greeting: "Mr. Yu."

Yu Yefeng turned his head.

Although he and Ding Zijun had attempted to assassinate Wang Xuesen, this was the first time they had met face-to-face.

The young man had clean features, a friendly smile, and stood there without a trace of hostility, quite different from what I had imagined.

But the more this happened, the more uncomfortable Yu Yefeng felt.

A dog that bites may not bark.

The person who smiles while stabbing you in the back is the hardest to guard against.

Pity.

This kid's name is also on tonight's list.

Yu Yefeng raised his hand: "Director Wang, Director Liu, please take a seat."

He spoke politely, but there was no intention of exchanging pleasantries.

In his eyes, the two men were already dead.

A dead man is not worth wasting your breath on.

As for Liu Zhongwen, he was even less inclined to look at him.

After tonight, he will start anew with Nomura Shoichi's side.

Once the Ding Mansion is established, No. 76 will no longer be the only place that dominates.

Even if Li Shiqun came in person, let alone Liu Zhongwen, he wouldn't need to give him any face.

Wang Xuesen, seemingly oblivious to his disdain, smiled and nodded, "Mr. Yu is busy."

After taking his seat, Liu Zhongwen looked ahead and said calmly, "He looks at us like we're two dead men."

Wang Xuesen took off his glasses and slowly wiped the lenses with a handkerchief: "What do you think?"

Liu Zhongwen said, "I don't know."

"Anyway, I won't die."

"As for you and him, that's hard to say."

Wang Xuesen put his glasses back on and smiled sincerely: "I'm sure I won't die."

"The fortune teller said I have nine lives."

"Besides, with Director Liu protecting me, I'm perfectly safe."

Liu Zhongwen glanced at him: "You actually believe I'd protect you?"

Wang Xuesen lowered his voice.

"Believe me."

"Director Liu values ​​talent so much, how could he bear to let me die?"

"Besides, wouldn't you be bored if I died?"

"Didn't you hear what the people in the building were saying? You're the Phoenix Chick, and I'm the Crouching Dragon; we're a match made in heaven."

This guy's shamelessness is truly remarkable — Liu Zhongwen smiled inwardly and said nothing more.

Wang Xuesen quickly scanned the surrounding area.

Three rows to the left front, those are Yu Yefeng's men.

In the aisle on the right, there were two men wearing long robes, their palms calloused, and they were not businessmen.

He glanced at the side door of the stage.

There was a young man carrying props over there, with a tattered towel draped over his shoulder, walking backstage with his head down.

His pace was neither too fast nor too slow.

Like an ordinary errand boy.

He's the fourth son.

Boss Cheng was indeed loyal and arranged for him to join the company.

As for the people Lao Wang sent to help protect Lao Si, Wang Xuesen couldn't figure them out for a while.

In any case, it's a good thing that people have come in.

Just then, a commotion suddenly broke out at the doorway.

Many people in the auditorium turned around.

"Master Zhang is here."

"Master Zhang has arrived."

Zhang Xiaolin did indeed arrive.

Several cars were parked at the bottom of the steps at the entrance.

First to get off were Ah Si and several Belarusian bodyguards.

Then, Zhang Xiaolin got out of the car, dressed in black, leaning on a gold-inlaid cane. His face was pale, but he exuded a fierce aura.

Yu Yefeng and Yu Chujiu immediately went out to greet them.

All eyes turned to that direction.

Yu Yefeng cupped his hands in greeting, beaming, "My dear in-law, the guests have almost all arrived and are just waiting for your arrival."

Zhang Xiaolin laughed in a shrill voice, "It's rare for my godson and great-nephew to be so filial, how could I not come?"

As soon as these words were spoken, the expressions of many people at the door changed.

Yu Chu Jiu's single eye gleamed with a fierce light.

Yu Yefeng was somewhat embarrassed for a moment.

In front of so many people, Zhang Xiaolin's use of the term "godson" effectively brought Yu Yefeng's newly elevated status back down to earth.

But with the important matter unresolved tonight, he couldn't afford to turn against his partner.

Yu Yefeng could only continue to smile: "Godfather, please come in."

As he spoke, he gave Yu Chu Jiu a wink.

Yu Chu Jiu raised his hand to stop Lin Huai Bu and the White Russian bodyguards: "Gentlemen, there are Japanese military officers, important figures from the concession, and celebrities present today."

"For safety reasons, weapons are not allowed on site."

Ah Si's face darkened: "Who do you think you are, daring to stop Master Zhang's guards?"

Yu Chu Jiu sneered: "Rules are rules. Why don't you go talk to the Japanese?"

Ah Si was about to start cursing again when Zhang Xiaolin raised his hand to stop him.

"Ah Si, don't be rude."

He looked at Yu Yefeng and smiled kindly: "What kind of son kills his father in this world?"

"Ah Feng's place is our place."

"Disarm them."

Ah Si gritted his teeth and had no choice but to comply.

Lin Huaibu also handed over the pistol from his waist, without showing any unusual expression.

The Belarusian bodyguards were searched one by one, and their guns, daggers, and short sticks were all confiscated.

Yu Chu Jiu personally watched until he was sure it was correct before stepping aside and saying, "Master Zhang, please."

Yu Yefeng raised his hand to lead the way, and was about to take a step forward.

He wanted to take the lead as the host.

This is the first silent battle for position tonight.

Whoever goes first is the master.

But Zhang Xiaolin held his cane horizontally, blocking his way, and entered the door first.

As he walked, he bowed to those around him, saying, "Gentlemen, I've kept you waiting."

"May Master Zhang be well."

"Uncle Zhang, you look to be in good spirits."

Amidst the greetings, Zhang Xiaolin sat down in the center of the front row.

Yu Yefeng followed behind, acting like a lackey, his imposing manner greatly diminished, and he was inwardly seething with frustration.

You scoundrel.

He took a deep breath, calmed himself down, and sat down to Zhang Xiaolin's left.

The two sat side by side, chatting and laughing, seemingly a loving father and son.

Wang Xuesen was sitting on the right side of the back, so he could see everything clearly.

Liu Zhongwen said calmly, "Zhang Xiaolin may be old, but he hasn't lost his imposing presence."

Wang Xuesen said, "The old turtle has lived for so long, it must have a shell."

Liu Zhongwen said, "Even the hardest tortoise shell is afraid of an iron hammer."

Wang Xuesen smiled and said, "Director Liu makes a good point."

Ahead, Yu Yefeng raised his hand and called out, "Chu Jiu, Master Zhang has arrived."

"Let's begin the play."

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