A man in Handong: living off Zhong Xiaoai

As far as I know, the Triad's current success in the Gulf region is inseparable from Governor Qi's support and assistance. Mr. Lei, don't you agree? Our Triad and Governor Qi have countless connections; in the future, we'll have to rely on Governor Qi even more!

After hearing Chicken's words, Chan Ho-nam didn't give Lei Fu-hong a friendly look either.

“Mr. Lei, although Chicken and I now hold high positions in Handong Province, don’t forget that we used to be people of the underworld, and we understand the importance of brotherhood! We will repay even the smallest kindness with the greatest gratitude. I, Chen Haonan, know this principle better than anyone!”

"If anyone dares to be ungrateful and betray Governor Qi in the future, I, Chen Haonan, will be the first to stand up against it! Then, don't say I, Chen Haonan, am heartless. Loyalty is never something to be spoken of to traitors! Mr. Lei, you'd better remember this, or you'll blame me later for not warning you!"

Upon hearing Chen Haonan's words, Ke Zhihua sneered.

"Hey, cousin, Haonan, don't worry! Our Sanlian Gang is known for its loyalty, that's common knowledge in the Gulf! Back in the day, when Lei Gong was alive, he even offered up his beloved Ding Yao to curry favor with Governor Qi! Haha, that kind of friendship is something no ordinary person can match!"

Now that Lei Gong has just passed away, his body barely cold, if Mr. Lei, as the successor of the Sanlian Gang and Lei Gong, were to immediately turn against Governor Qi, it would not only betray the code of the underworld, but also disrespect the recently departed Lei Gong! Am I right, Mr. Lei? You will surely inherit Lei Gong's will and remain forever loyal to Governor Qi, am I not mistaken? Haha, the relationship between our Sanlian Gang and Governor Qi is as solid as iron!"

Lei Fuhong's face turned ugly after hearing what everyone said.

At this moment, Michael, who was sitting next to Lei Fuhong, suddenly spoke.

"Brother Hua, don't put it so harshly! And Brother Chicken and Director Hao Nan, stop speaking in riddles that make people unable to understand! Let me tell you the truth, our Sanlian Gang has already decided that we will no longer just maintain a cooperative relationship with Governor Qi, but will completely depend on Governor Qi!"

Under Mr. Lei's leadership, our Sanlian Gang has completely learned from the practices of the four major Hong Kong triads—Hung Hing, Tung Sing, Wo Luen Shing, and the Ni family. Just as they sided with the big boss, we sided with Governor Qi! Now, our Sanlian Gang is Governor Qi's people. You'd better remember that!

Chicken looked surprised after hearing Michael's words.

"Is what you're saying true, Michael? I've never heard of you before. Didn't you guys conspire with some new high-ranking officials in the Gulf Province to unify all the gangs there? I thought you Three Alliances had some grand ambitions, but it turns out you're just trying to curry favor with Governor Qi?"

I didn't want to fall out with you today because of Lei Gong's passing. But now that you've made things clear, Michael, Lei Fuhong, why don't you give us a reasonable explanation? How can you do this to Lei Gong? How can you face the brothers of the Sanlian Gang?"

Upon hearing Chicken's words, Michael was about to slam his fist on the table, but Lei Fuhong quickly waved his hand to stop him.

"Chicken, what you said is true, but that's all in the past. I admit that it was because of that bastard Lao Jin and me that I went astray. At that time, I was focused on expanding the power of the Sanlian Gang, but I neglected the feelings of my brothers and the code of the underworld."

However, I realized this in time. When I met Governor Qi today, I explained to him that our Sanlian Gang will not follow the old path again, but will act with integrity, be worthy of the gang and our brothers.

I don't blame the brothers for their complaints; it was indeed my fault before. Now, I, Lei Fuhong, assure you all that from now on, every step the Sanlian Gang takes will be steady and secure, and I will not let the brothers down again.

After hearing Lei Fuhong's words, Chen Haonan curled his lip.

"Mr. Lei, anyone can say nice things, and we don't know whether what you're saying is true or false. We've all heard about the Sanlian Gang's past actions. Now you say you want to submit to Governor Qi and change the Sanlian Gang, but that's not something we can believe with just a few words."

"Mr. Lei, do you have any sincerity to offer? Can you do something to show us the sincerity of your Sanlian Gang and your own commitment to Governor Qi's allegiance? Otherwise, empty words alone will hardly convince others. What we need are concrete actions, evidence that shows the Sanlian Gang has truly changed."

Chapter 592 The sincerity is already more than enough!

Michael sneered after hearing Chan Ho-nam's words and spoke before Lei Fu-hong could.

"Sincerity? We certainly have sincerity, otherwise, would Governor Qi have so easily trusted Mr. Lei? What kind of person do you think Governor Qi is? Would he be so easily fooled? Since you are so loyal to Governor Qi, don't you know his wisdom and courage? Doubt? Do you need to doubt him? What a joke!"

"Let me tell you the truth! Young Master Lei has already kicked that bastard Lao Jin out of the Sanlian Gang, and he's even confiscated his territory. Isn't that sincere enough?! This time, the Sanlian Gang is serious; we're not joking. Don't think we're still the same Sanlian Gang that only talks the talk; now, we speak the truth and do real things!"

Upon hearing Michael's words, Chicken's cousin, Ke Zhihua, was somewhat surprised.

"Mr. Lei, is what Michael just said true? Is it really true that Master Jin has been expelled from the Triad? This news is so sudden, I can hardly believe it. If it's true, then our Triad will have to really clean up the mess from now on, we can't let those scumbags ruin our reputation anymore."

Upon hearing Ke Zhihua's words, Shanji looked disdainful.

“Cousin, don’t be so honest! Don’t just believe everything people say! Master Jin is the strategist of the Lei family, the brain of the entire Sanlian Gang! How could he be driven away so easily? I don’t believe they would really drive Master Jin away so easily.”

"Is this some kind of self-orchestrated ruse, Lei Fuhong? Trying to gain Governor Qi's trust? Hmph, I've seen plenty of those kinds of tricks. Lei Fuhong, don't think you can fool us so easily. We want to see real sincerity and concrete actions!"

Michael's expression was getting increasingly grim. Lei Fuhong first patted Michael on the shoulder to calm him down, then took a deep breath and slowly said.

“I know that no matter what we do, you will still misunderstand us. The Sanlian Gang has indeed done a lot of wrong things in the past, but that's all in the past. Now, I sincerely want to cooperate with Governor Qi and make a living together with everyone.”

To show our sincerity, before coming to Handong, I had already decided to return all the territories and businesses under your jurisdiction in the Sanlian Gang to you, Ke Zhihua. Furthermore, all the territories and businesses formerly belonging to the Chicken and Poisonous Snake Gang will also be handed over to you, Ke Zhihua, to manage. Michael will take over Old Jin's portion; this is our way of giving him a proper explanation.

I don't know if this will prove my sincerity towards Governor Qi, and also towards Director Shanji. I only hope that everyone can make a living under Governor Qi's guidance from now on, and that we can put aside our past grievances and let bygones be bygones. Besides, I have no hatred between me and any of you, only some misunderstandings. I hope this sincerity will earn your trust, so that we can join hands and create a bright future for the Sanlian Gang and Handong.

Ke Zhihua was utterly astonished when he heard Lei Fuhong's words.

"Mr. Lei, is what you're saying true? This...this is completely beyond my expectations! So, what about what you said before, that you asked me to set up a branch in Handong, to be your special envoy in Handong, and to take 50% of the business between the Sanlian Gang and Miss Yang? Do you still stand by that promise? I...I'm not being greedy, I just want to confirm it so I can have some peace of mind."

Michael smiled after hearing what Ke Zhihua said.

"That's why I say you're lucky, Brother Hua! All the things Mr. Lei relayed to me when he sent me before still count! You can rest assured! Mr. Lei has made a big decision this time to cooperate well with you, Ke Zhihua, and Director Shanji."

Your life is absolutely amazing! Controlling three branches within the Sanlian Gang already puts you in a lot of power. Now you get a 50% cut of the gang's biggest source of revenue—everyone in the Sanlian Gang is green with envy! To be honest, I'm a little jealous myself.

Mr. Lei has gone to such lengths; if this isn't sincerity, then what is? Brother Hua, don't hesitate any longer, work hard with Mr. Lei! I believe that under your leadership, our Sanlian Gang will surely prosper even more!

Lei Fuhong, standing next to Michael, chuckled, looking quite refined.

"How about it? Zhihua, Shanji, Haonan, is my sincerity enough? I know that the Sanlian Gang has done many things that have made you unhappy in the past, but that's all in the past. Now, I sincerely want to work together with everyone to create a better future."

I, Lei Fuhong, hereby assure you that as long as we all work together, the Sanlian Gang will absolutely not mistreat any of our brothers. Whether it's territory, business, or profits, I will distribute them fairly and reasonably, ensuring everyone's satisfaction. I hope we can join hands and move forward together to welcome a brighter tomorrow!

Upon hearing this, Ke Zhihua was overjoyed to learn that he had received so many benefits.

"That's enough, that's enough! Chicken, Mr. Lei's sincerity is more than enough, we should be content! Look, Governor Qi has already forgiven Mr. Lei, so let's not dwell on those old, trivial matters anymore."

Hao Nan, you need to see the situation clearly! Mr. Lei and the Sanlian Gang are now completely subservient to Governor Qi, just like the Hung Hing in Hong Kong. This is not just a simple cooperation; it's complete submission and surrender! We should be happy because it means we will have more opportunities and greater room for development in the future.

So, everyone, let's stop having any worries and work hard together with Mr. Lei and Governor Qi! I believe our future will be even brighter!

The pheasant was speechless when he saw how disappointing his cousin was.

To be honest, if I had so many benefits, I might not be so ungrateful either.

Thinking of this, Chicken subconsciously glanced at Chan Ho-nam and found that Chan Ho-nam's anger seemed to have subsided, as if he had also chosen to believe Lei Fu-hong.

Chapter 593 They're here for Governor Qi

For a moment, Shanji felt that it would be a bit unreasonable for him to attack Lei Fuhong again, so Shanji pursed his lips and said.

"Well, since that's the case, we can only wait and see. After all, time will tell, and short-term good or bad can't prove anything. Mr. Lei, Cousin, and Hao Nan, we all know that things in the underworld are very complicated and can't be explained in just a few words."

However, since Governor Qi is willing to give Mr. Lei a chance, let's see how things go. But I must make it clear beforehand: if we find anything amiss, we must withdraw immediately and not get ourselves involved.

Anyway, let's leave it at that for now. Everyone should be careful and look out for each other. Come on, let's eat first, talk while we eat, and see what the next step is.”

Upon hearing Chicken's words, Chan Ho-nam smiled slightly.

"Mr. Lei, since that's the case, I, Chen Haonan, will raise this glass! I hope we can all stay by Governor Qi's side for a long time, working together to accomplish something truly great!"

The journey ahead may be long, but we'll weather the storms together. Although we in 773 come from different places, we're now brothers in arms. As long as we work together, I believe there's nothing we can't overcome. Come, let's raise a glass to our shared future!

Lei Fuhong was overjoyed upon hearing this and immediately raised his wine glass.

"Come, come, Zhihua, and Directors Shanji and Haonan! It's truly an honor to be here with you all today! In the future, our Gulf Triad's business in Handong Province will depend heavily on your support and assistance!"

As you all know, I'm a loyal and sentimental person. As long as we all work together and stand shoulder to shoulder, I guarantee the Sanlian Gang will not let you down! This glass of wine, I, Lei Fuhong, toast to you all, to thank you for your support and trust! Come on, let's drink it all!

As soon as Lei Fuhong finished speaking, everyone began to raise their glasses and drink.

In the office of Ji Changming, Vice Governor of Handong Province, at the provincial government building.

Sha Ruijin was standing in front of Ji Changming, who seemed very happy to see him.

"Ruijin! What brings you here today? You didn't even tell me beforehand, which made everyone in this room panic for a moment. I thought you were back at the Handong Provincial Procuratorate, facing those thorny cases again, haha. But to be honest, I'm really happy to see you. Please sit down, let's chat about what's been going on lately."

Upon hearing Ji Changming's words, Sha Ruijin sat down with a smile.

"My dear old leader, it's been a long time! You're still as impressive as ever! I'm here today with something I'd like to report to you. That's why I made a point of coming to your office—first, to pay my respects and express my gratitude; and second, to give you a thorough report on this matter and hear your opinions and guidance. Let's work together for the future of Handong!"

Ji Changming looked at Sha Ruijin and smiled.

"Hey kid, don't give me that crap. You didn't come here specifically to see me, did you? I bet you came to our provincial government office building to see Governor Qi, right? Haha, after meeting with the head of our Qi family gang, you still had plenty of time, so you stopped by to sit for a bit, didn't you? But hey, it's good that you're here, it's good that you're here. We can talk about business or just chat about everyday things, it's all good."

As Sha Ruijin listened to Ji Changming's words, he kept waving his hand with a smile.

“Governor Ji, you’ve really misunderstood. I came to the provincial government of Handong Province this time specifically to visit you. I’ve already communicated with Governor Qi before, and today I mainly wanted to hear your guidance and opinions. As you know, the work of my Anti-Corruption Bureau cannot be separated from the support and guidance of a senior leader like you. So, I specially chose this time to come here to sit down and chat about our work and the future of Handong.”

Ji Changming was somewhat surprised to hear that Sha Ruijin had come to see him.

"Ruijin, did you really come here specifically to see me? Don't try to play games with me! I've heard those kinds of things before: 'Let's talk about work,' 'Let's talk about the future of Handong.' Ruijin, are you having some trouble? Are those higher-ups going to remove you from your position as the head of the Anti-Corruption Bureau of Handong Province? I have to tell you in advance, if you really have any difficulties, you have to tell me, and we'll figure something out together. Also, Zou Zhengguo's younger brother, Zou Shuaifu, did he come to our procuratorate? Did he give you any trouble? That guy is no pushover; you'd better be careful."

As Sha Ruijin listened to Ji Changming's words, his smile gradually faded, and his face turned cold.

"Governor Ji, Zou Shuaifu hasn't arrived yet, but he's expected to take up his post at our procuratorate in the next couple of days. As for my position, I've heard some rumors. They might want to transfer someone from the Anti-Corruption Bureau of Xia Country. Don't even think about it; it'll definitely be someone from the Zou family. However, I'm not here for these trivial matters. I have something else to tell you. A couple of days ago, Director Gao Yuliang of the Handong Provincial Prison Administration called me, saying he wanted to invite Governor Qi to dinner. There will be no outsiders; it'll just be some brothers from our Qi family gang. Director Gao already consulted Governor Qi about this a couple of days ago, and Governor Qi agreed to attend. But he insisted that I invite you as well, saying it's for a get-together."

Ji Changming's expression turned serious for a moment. He took a deep breath and then said.

“Ruijin, Governor Qi summoned me, and I, Ji Changming, have an inescapable duty to attend. However, at this time, Governor Qi's sudden request to gather the two of us together suggests it's related to the Zou family affair. If Zou Zhengguo's younger brother, Zou Shuaifu, were to become the Chief Prosecutor of the Handong Provincial Procuratorate, it would certainly be detrimental to Governor Qi. Furthermore, their transfer of you, the Director of the Anti-Corruption Bureau of Handong Province, is undoubtedly aimed at Governor Qi. These people are utterly despicable! I suspect Governor Qi summoned us here to discuss this matter. We must be prepared for any unforeseen circumstances and absolutely cannot let their conspiracy succeed!”

Chapter 594 We happen to have a female section chief here named Lu Yike

Sha Ruijin nodded solemnly, his expression not looking good.

“Governor Ji, the Zou family wants to move me, but I really have no idea where they want to move me. It’s really disorienting at times like this. However, no matter what, I will stick to my duties and principles and will not let them succeed easily. But we still need to think carefully about their motives and purposes. We can’t let them lead us by the nose.”

Ji Changming took a deep breath, then looked at Shan Ruijin and said with a frown.

"Ruijin, haven't you discussed this matter with Governor Qi yet? They originally wanted to transfer me to another province to serve as the chief prosecutor, but it was only because of one word from Governor Qi that I was able to stay here and serve as the vice governor in charge of finance in Handong Province. You should talk to Governor Qi more about this matter and listen to his views and opinions. After all, we are all working under Governor Qi's leadership, and we need to unite to deal with the current complex situation."

Also, isn't your adoptive father a general who commands the nation of our Great Xia Kingdom? Have you heard anything from your grandfather? Perhaps he can offer some guidance and assistance from a higher perspective. At times like these, we need to unite all forces that can be united to jointly meet the challenges.”

Upon hearing Ji Changming's words, Sha Ruijin sighed deeply.

"Oh! Governor Ji, you don't know! Governor Qi is now the top official in our Handong Province government, a rank he doesn't hold as high as before. Governor Qi's position has risen, and his work has become much busier. I've tried to contact his secretary, his wife Zhong Xiaoai, many times, but we just can't get an appointment with him! That's why I was waiting for this dinner to see if I could report to our governor on his work."

Governor Ji, you used to be the Chief Prosecutor of Handong Province, so you're already a deputy provincial-level official. It'll naturally be easier for you to see Governor Qi. Unlike me, it's a rare opportunity for me to even see Governor Qi. As for my father, he doesn't understand the situation in Handong. He thinks I can't stay in Handong anymore and is planning to transfer me back to Beijing. Isn't that ridiculous? I still have to contribute to the Qi family's cause; why would I go back to Beijing?!

"Besides, the old man is on the military's side, and he's not familiar with our team. If I leave Governor Qi, it'll be difficult for me to get into a ministry. Those high-ranking positions in Beijing, aren't they all controlled by the seven major families? Even the very few positions not controlled by them, we wouldn't get them. It's all about luck, like buying a lottery ticket—what are our chances? I'm really worried now, I don't know what to do."

Ji Changming frowned and nodded.

"Governor Qi promoted a batch of deputy provincial-level cadres last time. You and Comrade Yuliang were among the first to follow Governor Qi and are also the earliest backbone of our Qi family clique. Over the years in Handong, from Sun Huashan to Zheng Jindong, you have made many outstanding contributions. Moreover, you and Gao Yuliang were the first two cadres in the Qi family clique to be promoted to the bureau-level. Whether it is seniority or contributions, they are undeniable."

"Why didn't Governor Qi consider either of you for this vice-provincial level promotion? Is there something we haven't figured out yet? Or perhaps Governor Qi has his own considerations and arrangements? We need to think about it carefully before jumping to conclusions. After all, Governor Qi's vision and planning have always been far-sighted."

Upon hearing Ji Changming's words, Sha Ruijin suddenly became very anxious.

"Yes! Governor Ji, don't laugh at me, I'm also anxious about this! I also want to join the ministry! You know, I've been working hard, hoping to gain more recognition and promotion. I guess Comrade Yuliang organized this dinner with that in mind; everyone wants to show off in front of Governor Qi and strive for better opportunities."

I heard that Director Yuliang is also eager to join the ministry. Like me, he's a long-time member of the Qi family clique and has made many contributions to Governor Qi and our Handong Province. We all hope that Governor Qi can see our efforts and contributions and give us a broader stage to showcase our talents. Governor Ji, what should I do?

Ji Changming looked utterly helpless.

“Originally, there was no such thing as the Zou family. After I left, the position of Chief Prosecutor of Handong Province should have been yours. Think about it, in the entire Handong Provincial Procuratorate, aren't you the only one from the Qi family faction? Your qualifications and abilities are undeniable.”

But you can't just sit idly by; you have to think of a way to further your relationship with Governor Qi. In this circle, if you don't do this, you'll suffer. Because you don't know what others, like Zheng Gang and Lü Jingmin who just got promoted, are doing behind the scenes. These things are definitely not as simple as they seem on the surface.

"Some things, you can't just wait and see. You have to take the initiative and show Governor Qi your determination and ability. Only then can you secure a place in the future competition."

 …

After listening to Ji Changming's words, Sha Ruijin looked around and then spoke cautiously.

"Governor Ji, you and I are thinking the same thing. I previously observed that the Sanlian Gang in Haiwan Province, led by Lei Gong, brought his son to present Governor Qi with a stunningly beautiful woman in order to curry favor with him! You may know that this stunningly beautiful woman is Ding Yao, who is now the Deputy Director of the Department of Justice of Handong Province. This shows how complicated the network of relationships behind her is."