Urban Shen Lang (Complete) - Chapter 37

Chapter 298 Feeling Unwell
After a busy afternoon and half the evening, the four people, exhausted but in good spirits, finally ate their meal. It was a hard-won, bittersweet meal, a meal of reminiscing about the past, a meal of unity, democracy, victory, and harmony. (Does this line sound familiar? A certain news channel always says this after a major conference, only they replace "meal" with "conference"...)
Shen Lang tragically played the role of both chef and waiter, hurriedly serving each dish while waiting for the next one to heat up the oil.
At first, the three women were quite restrained, planning to wait for Shen Lang to finish all the dishes before eating together.
However, later, unable to resist the onslaught of hunger, and with the food looking quite appealing, they gradually began to feel the strain.
Zuo Qiuyan spoke first: "Why don't we... start eating first? Anyway, we're women, we don't eat much, how can we compete with him when he comes over?"
Yi Xueman wholeheartedly agreed: "Hmm, that's a good suggestion!"
Qin Muyue said: "Then what are we waiting for? Let's start now!"
"Alright!"
Forget about men and women, pretty or not, or what social status a woman has. As long as they're starving, all pretense of image, manners, and table manners... throw them all to the winds and reveal their true nature from before the age of three, baring their hideous faces and charging at the entire table...
"Uh—"
Can anyone tell me what's going on?
When Shen Lang brought over the last dish, he was surprised to find that all seven dishes on the table were empty, and the table was a mess. Luckily, the three women hadn't drunk any alcohol, or they would have been "lying together" on the table!
No way, even though the last dish took a little time, you guys couldn't have been this...fast, could you?
Shen Lang said aggrievedly, "You don't have to do this, do you? You didn't even leave me a little bit? You're women!"
Zuo Qiuyan picked her teeth in a very unladylike manner, seemingly strongly disagreeing with Shen Lang's point of view, and said, "Why didn't I leave you any? Isn't that the plate you're holding?"
Shen Lang broke out in a cold sweat. Damn it, I just cooked that plate! Damn it, if this plate had been brought out earlier, would I have gotten nothing at all?
Yi Xueman and Qin Muyue didn't say anything, only giving Shen Lang an extremely beautiful little face, leaving him no way to vent his anger.
"Uncle can't stand it, aunt can't stand it, I..."
Zuo Qiuyan interrupted Shen Lang's harsh words, saying, "Don't hold back, hurry up and eat, then leave quickly. It's almost 12 o'clock, we should rest. They're all women... uh, to be precise, they're all women with status and careers, it's not good for a grown man to stay overnight, don't you think, Uncle Shen?"
Shen Lang shouted, "Damn it, what? You're still trying to kick me out this late?"
Zuo Qiuyan disagreed with this statement: "Uncle Shen, please don't say that. If you leave 'voluntarily,' then it's not 'kicking out,' is it?" Shen Lang
was speechless. Damn it, he probably angered this woman this morning, and now she's using this as an excuse to get revenge!
Hmph, a good man doesn't fight with a woman!
Shen Lang was "lonely" eating his "miserable" dinner, while the three women... However, they didn't leave, intently watching.
Shen Lang said with dissatisfaction, "Haven't you ever seen a handsome guy before?"
Qin Muyue: "I have, but I've never seen someone so confidently calling themselves 'handsome.'"
Yi Xueman: "Watching you eat is very interesting."
Zuo Qiuyan: "I'm curious, I want to know how much you eat. People say that men who can't eat more than five bowls of rice have some physiological problems and shouldn't be married."
Shen Lang was speechless. What kind of bullshit theory is that? Let them watch, it won't make a flower grow on my face.
My gentle Xueman sister, even though she's been kidnapped by two women who "have a grudge" against her, she still speaks so gently, I love her!
Suddenly, Shen Lang's phone rang. He took it out and saw it was Zhao Siyan.
Shen Lang proudly waved his phone and said, "See that?" "I have an appointment with a beauty, so I'll 'voluntarily' leave right away, hmph!"
Zuo Qiuyan stood up and spat, "What's so great about him? Xueman, Muyue, let's go, let's not disturb him and his little lover's lovey-dovey moment." / "Brother Lang, can you come over here? I have something very important to tell you."
Zhao Siyan's voice was somewhat serious, unlike her usual self.
Shen Lang clearly sensed something was wrong and said, "Okay, wait for me, I'll be there in half an hour."
After hanging up the phone, Shen Lang shouted, "Beautiful Qiuyan, can I borrow your car again?"
After saying that, Shen Lang rushed out the door.
Zuo Qiuyan chased after him and saw the table full of unwashed cups, plates, and bowls. Her little nose almost crooked with anger, and she shouted, "You're not even washing the dishes, you've probably been bewitched!
" Xue Man laughed, "Qiu Yan, what? You've really fallen for him?"
Zuo Qiu Yan blushed and hurriedly denied, "Fall for him? What a joke! Do you think I'm the kind of person who would go to such lengths?"
Yi Xue Man didn't argue, but just chuckled with Qin Mu Yue. Unexpectedly, Zuo Qiu Yan noticed and, feeling embarrassed, yelled and pounced on her. A passionate battle ensued...
Half an hour later, Shen Lang met Zhao Si Yan. Seeing her pale face, Shen Lang asked worriedly, "Si Yan, what happened?"
Zhao Si Yan threw herself into Shen Lang's arms and said, "Brother Lang, please listen to me patiently and don't be angry, okay?"
Shen Lang was stunned for a moment, feeling that something was amiss. He said, "Alright then, let's sit down and talk slowly."
"Brother Lang, do you remember what happened in Chengjia Village a few days ago?"
"Of course! If I hadn't been tied up with urgent business, I would have definitely taken my revenge. I, Shen Lang, have never suffered such a loss in my life!"
Zhao Siyan said, "Brother Lang, I'm afraid you won't be able to take revenge for now."
"What do you mean?"
"The higher-ups have reached a secret agreement with them, and this matter is considered closed."
"What?"
Shen Lang's scalp tightened upon hearing this. Zhao Siyan's words clearly meant that the matter was resolved, and even if Shen Lang suffered a great loss, he could only pretend that nothing had happened.
This feeling of being abandoned or betrayed was extremely unpleasant, but Shen Lang could only endure it. The decision made by the higher-ups was not to be questioned or changed. No matter how powerful a person was, they could not go against the government.
Shen Lang sneered, "Siyan, did someone just tell you about this, and then ask you to tell me?"
Zhao Siyan asked curiously, "How did you know?"
Shen Lang said, "It's so obvious! If those people told me to my face, I'd tear them to shreds. They told you first, and then you relayed it to me. Even if I'm angry, I won't do anything to you, right?"
Zhao Siyan suddenly understood and said, "Oh, I see. No wonder. Logically speaking, a mere police station office director like me shouldn't be qualified to know such a secret."
Shen Lang said, "Tell me, what exactly happened? I promise I won't get angry."
Zhao Siyan said apologetically, "Brother Lang, I'm sorry, I was used and tricked."
Shen Lang said, "It's alright. The grievances have their source, the debts have their debtors. Turn left after you leave, and you'll find the government. They're trying to play tricks on me, hehe. What goes around comes around. I don't have much power now, but that doesn't mean I won't in the future. We'll get back at those bastards for the injustices and losses we suffered!"...
Half an hour later, Shen Lang learned the general outline of the whole incident, but Zhao Siyan knew only limited details. For example, she was kept in the dark about Xue Dong's situation. The whole thing
was quite dramatic, a series of seemingly unrelated accidents.
The instigator was none other than the executive vice president of Huaxia University, surnamed Chen, named Chen Hanjian, who had previously approached Shen Lang and tried to persuade him to "surrender" to the municipal government.
What a name! Definitely brain-dead!
Several months ago, Chen Hanjian personally sold the Super Wheat project to Shen Lang for 4 million yuan.
Chen Hanjian felt that researching super wheat was a joke from the start. The university's initial approval of the project was a case of money-burning folly; nearly 5 million yuan was invested, but after two years of fruitless effort, the university stopped funding.
Later, Chen Hanjian sold the project, receiving 4 million yuan in cash, ensuring the university didn't suffer significant losses. Transferring a university research project to an individual was unprecedented in Huaxia University's history, and Chen Hanjian was initially quite pleased with himself.
However, within just three months of selling the project, it began applying for national patents and production licenses. This surprised Chen Hanjian, leaving him feeling extremely resentful. Coupled with the university's complaints, he often sighed at home.
He knew that if super wheat were successfully developed, it would be a shoo-in for a Nobel Prize. If this honor belonged to Huaxia University, its reputation would soar, giving it a chance to become one of China's top universities. As for
Chen Hanjian, his capital would increase, potentially giving him a chance to become the next president of Huaxia University.
Unfortunately, he had destroyed all of this with his own hands.
Chen Hanjian's wife, seeing her husband sighing frequently, became curious and asked what was wrong.
Disregarding confidentiality clauses (Chinese law stipulates that those involved and those with knowledge of a project have an obligation to keep secrets of new technology projects that have not yet been officially patented and are under review; Chen Hanjian also had another identity: a senior advisor to the Crop Production Management Department of the Ministry of Agriculture, a so-called "expert" with a doctorate in agronomy), he revealed the super wheat project.
It wasn't just that Chen Hanjian told his wife about the project; the key issue was that his wife's identity was very special. The woman was Japanese, named Uesugi Mie, the younger sister of Uesugi Shinji, a university classmate of Chen Hanjian's from his time studying in Japan.
What was Uesugi Shinji's current status? A professor of agriculture at a prestigious Japanese university, a "classmate" who received his doctorate with Chen Hanjian, and seemingly a hawkish figure. It's hard to say whether he had some sinister motives in marrying his sister to Chen Hanjian.
None of that matters. The key issue is that Uesugi Mie is a typical Japanese scoundrel. She "likes" to "report" everything Chen Hanjian told her, no matter how small.
Thus, things become infinitely complicated.

Chapter 299: The Four Fathers-in-Law
. Upon hearing this, Uesugi Shinji felt it was no small matter and immediately reported it. The Japanese high command was in an uproar upon hearing the news. Three tons per mu—what does that mean? That's equivalent to a 250% increase in production! Although it sounds unbelievable, you can't resist the urge to investigate. /Impulse is not only a devil, but also an opportunity. If handled well, Japan could completely break free from decades of economic stagnation and once again bask in the glory of the Great Japanese Empire.
Japan is a country with a large population and limited land, unable to be self-sufficient in food. What is super wheat? It's not the seed of a crop, but a gift from Amaterasu to her followers. On this day, in the minds of everyone who heard this news, Amaterasu was possessed by Santa Claus, becoming an old man with a white beard, smilingly presenting a great gift to his people.
Only fools wouldn't want it!
Japan's resurgence is no longer a distant dream!
However, the Japanese are used to getting
things for nothing. Their first thought isn't to spend money to import it, but how to get it for free. It's like countless Chinese bookworms who don't understand VIP systems—free books are great, why pay for them? But the Japanese are too servile, afraid to keep it to themselves, fearing their masters in the US will be jealous and seek revenge. Plus, they don't know the truth, so they leaked the information to the US. The US basically didn't believe it, because they're too confident. Did our scientists grow up eating shit? They were already indignant that China developed super hybrid rice, and now they've developed super wheat? How is that possible? God shouldn't bestow all good things upon the Chinese, should he?
With a skeptical attitude, coupled with the new hybrid nation's diplomatic arrogance and cunning, they naturally wouldn't take the lead without verifying the information. Therefore, they intentionally or unintentionally leaked the matter to several countries with serious food problems, such as India.
Soon, a joint special operations team was formed. Their mission was to verify the reliability of the information and steal relevant data and seed samples as much as possible.
In fact, most members of these so-called "special operations teams" were not genuine agents. For example, the US, as usual, sent hired mercenaries. Even if the mission failed, the US could easily deny responsibility, at least saving face. The special operations team chose to strike that night because of Chen Hanjian's wife, Uesugi Mie.
That day, Chen Hanjian inadvertently revealed that the Xiajing municipal government intended to participate in the development of super wheat, and Uesugi Mie "timely" informed her brother.
This was unacceptable! Once this project became an official project, the nature of the theft would immediately escalate. There was no better time than the present, hence the surprise attack that night.
The encounter between the two Japanese ninjas and Zhao Siyan was entirely accidental, a phenomenon known in China's family planning policy as "unplanned." Later, the joint intelligence team was almost entirely wiped out by mysterious figures (Xue Dong and others) on the outskirts of Chengjia Village, resulting in a complete failure of the operation. This was due to insufficient preparation and the overwhelming strength of Xue Dong's group.
To avoid unrest and for diplomatic reasons, the security department deliberately concealed the incident from the public. This was the largest espionage case in the twenty years since the founding of the People's Republic of China, and its release would have been disrespectful to all countries. Later, a compromise was reached, with China generously forgiving the past, and the other countries swallowing their pride and reaching a secret agreement with the Chinese government. Zhao Siyan, of course, had no way of knowing the specifics.
As for Chen Hanjian, he was placed under investigation and his future was ruined. Uesugi Mie was repatriated and could never set foot in China again.
The whole matter was thus resolved, and Shen Lang, as the main party involved, was no longer involved.
How could Shen Lang swallow this insult? He was incredibly frustrated. Politics was indeed dirty; in the face of interests and face, ordinary people were merely used as bargaining chips and sacrifices. He wondered what benefits the Chinese government had gained from this, or perhaps, given China's consistent foreign policy, they hadn't gained anything at all. Instead, under pressure from some pro-China faction, they had swallowed their pride and handled the matter discreetly, letting it fade away—similar to the recent Diaoyu incident. …
After listening to Zhao Siyan's account, Shen Lang said self-deprecatingly, "We're truly honored to have become pawns in the great power game. Unfortunately, a pawn is just a pawn; we don't even know who to vent our anger on." Zhao Siyan said, "Brother Lang, actually, the person who came to see me just now said a lot of strange things to me."
Shen Lang remained silent, seemingly waiting for Zhao Siyan to continue.
Zhao Siyan paused for a moment before saying, "They said you're getting close to someone named Tie Ying, and that it's not a good thing. I don't know what they mean, but I feel like they're threatening you..."
Shen Lang was taken aback. The security department's eyes really are everywhere; they even know this. For some reason, Shen Lang suddenly thought of the Ming Dynasty's Embroidered Uniform Guard and the Eastern and Western Depots...
Could it be that after more than twenty years, the government still doesn't trust the Xiantian Sect? Is it necessary to be so cautious? Even if the Xiantian Sect is daring, they wouldn't do anything outrageous, right? Since ancient times, the common people don't fight against the officials. As long as the government doesn't actively oppress them, ordinary people are already grateful. Why would they deliberately cause trouble? Are they tired of living?
That's how the government is; they're always suspicious and never allow any unstable elements to exist, insisting on eliminating them as quickly as possible. That person's words were clearly a threat. If the government wants to get rid of someone, they can find countless ways. Now, Shen Lang is just an ordinary citizen; what right does he have to fight against the state apparatus?
Shen Lang suddenly felt the urge to talk to Tie Ying. Why was the government still so resentful of the Xiantian Sect? And why was they warning him not to get too close to them? Had the Xiantian Sect done something in the past that the government couldn't tolerate?
Now, Shen Lang felt as if a fog was hanging over him, or as if a mountain was pressing down on him. He didn't even know who his enemy was, or even if he had any enemies at all. At the very least, after suffering such a huge loss, he didn't know who to seek revenge against. Nothing could be more frustrating than this. ...
The next day, Shen Lang successfully met Tie Ying in a very quiet coffee shop.
Coffee shops are usually closed in the morning, but Tie Ying insisted on choosing this location.
So now, the large hall was empty except for the two of them. The lights weren't even on, but the morning sunlight slanted in, creating a feeling similar to the afternoon or evening, the only difference being that the sun was shining from the east. Tie Ying remained unhurried and composed, showing no surprise at Shen Lang's invitation.
"Speak, what do you want to know?"
Tie Ying asked, seemingly aware that Shen Lang had many questions.
Shen Lang cut to the chase: "I want to know why someone warned me not to get too close to you."
Tie Ying smiled unsurprised and said, "Nothing, it's just because of that project you have. If you sell it to the government now, I think they won't have time to bother with you anymore."
Shen Lang was puzzled: "Why?"
Tie Ying said, "Do you know how much that project would be worth if it succeeded? I certainly don't. I only know that the whole world would go crazy because food production could increase by 2.5 times, enough to feed twice as many people as we have now. I can't imagine what a planet with 25 billion people would be like.
Of course, that's just theoretical. Having food to eat alone..." Having water to drink but no clothes to wear is unacceptable, but solving the current global food problem is a piece of cake. Super wheat, perhaps its significance is greater than that of Edison and Newton combined.
Such an important and valuable thing, given the consistent style of the Chinese government, they won't let it go. I bet in a few days someone will definitely come to you to discuss whether to sell this project to the government.
And you, of course, will not agree. If you are close to the Xiantian Sect, the government will be hesitant to act, at least not openly causing you trouble.
And our sects, our hidden power is generally much greater than our open power, so we have always been seen as an unstable factor by the government. You think... "If someone as promising as you were to join the Xiantian Sect, it would be a powerful alliance, something the government would find hard to tolerate."
Shen Lang quickly understood Tie Ying's meaning and said, "So, my future days will be difficult?"
Tie Ying smiled bitterly, "It's not just you who will be difficult; the entire Xiantian Sect will probably be in trouble. Our power is too scattered, and the government doesn't really take us seriously right now. However, if the Xiantian Sect can reorganize, I guess the government won't be so arrogant."
Shen Lang asked curiously, "How much power does the Xiantian Sect actually have? Would you mind revealing a little?"
Tie Ying refused decisively, "Unless you join, there's no room for discussion. We also have confidentiality agreements."
"Then so, I have to choose between the government and the Xiantian Sect? " Shen Lang laughed.
"I won't force you to choose." Tie Ying said, "
I suddenly realize how insignificant I am. To avoid being swallowed up by the government... But, does the Xiantian Sect dare to accept me?"
Tie Ying said arrogantly, "What's there to be afraid of? Even if they don't accept you, the government will never give us a kind look. In fact, you've already been a member of our Xiantian Sect. Not only are you Hu Tie's disciple, but more importantly, you've cultivated the Bone Refining Technique. Junior Brother Shen, welcome to your formal membership. The Right Protector will return from Meiguo in a few days to formally hold the initiation ceremony for you." "Right Protector?"
Shen Lang asked curiously.
Tie Ying revealed a slightly teasing expression: "Actually, you know her, you just haven't met her in person."
Tie Ying's words left Shen Lang very confused: "How could that be? How could I know her if I haven't met her?"
Tie Ying smiled: "You should know Ning Meng, right?"
"Ning Meng? Of course I know her!"
Thinking of Ning Meng, Shen Lang immediately thought of a rooftop of a certain building, a tent, and a light rain, but... it seemed like the two hadn't been in contact for a long time.
Strictly speaking, the two were at most ordinary friends. Even if some intimate things had happened, as long as such things weren't completely exposed, there was nothing to say. Ning Meng didn't take the initiative to contact him, and Shen Lang had no excuse to provoke her.
"The Right Protector of the Xiantian Sect is Ning Meng's mother, the chairman of the Violet Hotel."
"Ah?"
Shen Lang's mouth dropped open in surprise. He had worked at the Violet Hotel for half a month. Although he hadn't met the chairman directly, he had seen her photo. He never expected that the graceful and still charming middle-aged woman was actually the Right Protector of the Xiantian Sect. Appearances can be deceiving. Tie Ying said, "Junior brother, don't be too surprised. If you knew who the four elders of our sect are, you would be even more surprised. Things are just that strange. Perhaps your fates were already intertwined. Even I find it a bit unbelievable. I can only say that you and the Xiantian Sect are truly destined for each other."
Shen Lang said, "Wait a minute, let me prepare myself. I don't seem to know many people who look like martial arts masters."
Tie Ying said, "With your current skill and eyesight, can you tell that I have martial arts skills if you didn't know beforehand?"
Shen Lang shook his head. If Tie Ying didn't deliberately exude some information, he couldn't see Tie Ying's front at all. If he were disguised, Tie Ying would look more like a burly dockworker.
"That's it. A true master looks no different from an ordinary person. This is the result of concealing one's aura. If you walk out with a murderous aura, it's no wonder you scare passersby away."
Shen Lang laughed. It was just the truth. It was just that he was an anomaly. He had never shown any "murderous aura" from the beginning. Perhaps it was because his Bone Refining Technique was a "modified version."
Tie Ying tried to appear serious, but couldn't suppress a smile: "Listen carefully, the four elders of our sect. You're related to them by blood."
Shen Lang was startled again, saying, "Really? I'm an orphan, brother, where did you get so many relatives?"
Tie Ying said, "Then... do you know Rong Yuancheng?"
"Rong Yuancheng?"
Shen Lang exclaimed, "He's one of my fathers-in-law...you mean...one of the four elders?"
"That's right!"
Tie Ying seemed amused by Shen Lang's surprise and continued, "Do you know Zhao Tianhua?"
"What? He too?"
Shen Lang felt his heart pounding. Strictly speaking, Zhao Tianhua was related to him, though not his father-in-law, but his father-in-law's brother. But what should he call him?
"Xi Wuyu!"
"I don't know him."
"But you definitely know his daughter, Xi Chenyue!"
"What!"
Shen Lang bit his tongue, spitting out a mouthful of blood in a very uncouth manner.
"Ji Wuchou!"
"And who is this fellow?"
Shen Lang asked somewhat hypocritically.
"Haha, this isn't your fellow, he's Ji Jinghua's father!"
"Hiss—"
Shen Lang gasped again, feeling a slight toothache. This wasn't his father-in-law, but his father-in-law's father.
No, Shen Lang gulped down a cup of scalding hot coffee in one go. It was too stimulating; he couldn't process such a...supernatural thing in a moment. He was thinking, with himself juggling multiple relationships, what if those highly skilled fathers-in-law all went berserk? Would he still be alive?

Chapter 300 Temporary Forbearance
"What? Scared?"
Tie Ying chuckled, his eyes full of teasing intent.
Shen Lang, slightly sweating, chuckled, "A bit, actually."
Tie Ying said, "Don't worry. Since even I know so much about your affairs, how could your future fathers-in-law not know? Each of them is quite wealthy and powerful; their influence, both overt and covert, is considerable. If they wanted to cause you trouble, you would have been finished long ago. Why wait until now?"
Shen Lang was taken aback, then chuckled, "That makes sense, hehe. I hadn't expected... Father-in-law Rong seems like a very kind old man, but he turns out to be an elder of the Xiantian Sect. And Uncle Zhao looks like a shrewd businessman, yet he's also an elder of the Xiantian Sect. Hehe, appearances can be deceiving."
"Don't even mention you; there aren't many people who know their true identities. The reason the Xiantian Sect chose this highland city to lie low back then was because it's far from the capital, thus avoiding the vortex of politics and struggle. However, things are unpredictable. After more than twenty years of peace, things are about to turn turbulent again."
With that, Tie Ying sighed heavily.
Shen Lang immediately caught the helplessness in Tie Ying's words and pressed, "Is something big about to happen?"
Tie Ying said, "It's obvious. Next year is the Chinese general election, another time to re-choose sides. Isn't that big?" Shen
Lang said self-deprecatingly, "So what if it's an election? I'm just an ordinary citizen; those official matters have nothing to do with me. I'll just watch the show."
Tie Ying laughed heartily, "If this had happened before, I would have sighed with you, but this year is different. This election will not only be related to you, but it will be a huge one. You can't escape it even if you want to.
" Lang asked in surprise, "What does this have to do with me? What do you mean by that, Senior Brother Tie?"
Tie Ying paused for a moment, as if gathering his thoughts, and said, "First, I need to tell you some background information: the hawks in China have risen. In recent years, faced with China's relatively weak diplomacy, more and more hawks have expressed great dissatisfaction, especially in the military, because most of China's hawks come from the military. There are rumors that five-star general Zhao Tianchen is about to resign as Minister of National Defense and participate in next year's election."
This was nothing short of a bombshell, leaving Shen Lang somewhat dizzy. He knew who Zhao Tianchen was.
"Zhao Tianchen? Is that the iron-willed general who commanded the Chinese army to reclaim the lost territories of Southwest China more than ten years ago?"
Tie Ying said, "That's right. He's a representative figure of the Chinese hawks and a rare grassroots general in the army. His ancestors were all commoners. Because of the reconquest of the Southwest, he enjoys immense prestige among the Chinese people. If he participates in next year's election, he will undoubtedly become a formidable opponent to the current president, Chen Shaohua.
Chen Shaohua's strength should not be underestimated either. He comes from a typical political family with deep roots in China, which is a natural political asset.
Although Chen Shaohua and his Huaxing Party have..." While his diplomatic performance over the past four years has been lackluster, he has made some progress in economic development and domestic reforms. Although his approval rating isn't as high as it was at the beginning of his term, it has never fallen below 40%. The outcome of his contest with Zhao Tianchen is still uncertain.
Therefore, if Chen Shaohua wants to defeat Zhao Tianchen decisively, he must find a compelling reason to persuade voters.
Clearly, super wheat is a powerful tool, much like the super hybrid rice that saved the previous government years ago. Chen Shaohua's government is very likely to leverage the power of super wheat to help him. "They want to win back some public support.
China has over 300 million farmers, accounting for more than 30% of the national population. If they can win the votes of these people, then Chen Shaohua's re-election will be no problem.
Tell me, what if the government suddenly announced the development of a super grain variety that yields three tons per mu? What would those farmers do? Would their votes still go to someone else?"
Shen Lang was somewhat dumbfounded. He wasn't stupid; he naturally understood the enormous possibility in Tie Ying's words. After a long while, he said, "Senior brother, do you mean that what I have is a bargaining chip that can influence next year's Chinese general election?"
Tie Ying smiled bitterly, "Of course." This is my personal analysis. However, the possibility isn't nonexistent, and as long as there's even a sliver of a possibility, your situation becomes more dangerous.
The Chen Shaohua Group might covet what you have and will try every means to take it away.
As for Chen Tianchen, his main strategies are hardline diplomacy, punishing corruption, and welfare system reform, so it's unlikely he'd set his sights on Super Macon. However, he absolutely doesn't want Super Macon to become Chen Shaohua's bargaining chip; his mindset is definitely this: if he can get it, great; if not, no one else should either. Therefore, another possible outcome for your Super Macon is mutual destruction.”
“Hiss—”
Shen Lang gasped, his face contorted with rage, “Damn it, nobody can have what belongs to Shen Lang unless I'm dead!”
Tie Ying said, “Junior brother, as the saying goes, taking a step back opens up a vast sky; the too rigid are easily broken.”
“Senior brother, do you mean I should temporarily avoid the limelight?”
Shen Lang asked somewhat unwillingly.
Tie Ying said, "This is just my suggestion. If you continue this research, there's a 99% chance you'll end up with nothing. If you avoid the limelight for now, you won't have to stay away for long. Once the election results are out next year, no one will bother trying to take your stuff anymore."
Shen Lang said somewhat awkwardly, "Super McMi is already at the final stage. It would be a real shame to stop now."
"Junior brother, you have to give up something to gain something. I think you understand that principle."
"Well... alright, it would be too much to keep arguing like this. But senior brother has to help. Such a big operation can't be packed up so easily. I think it would be best to let some of the scientists go abroad for a while, and find a safe and reliable place to hide the seeds and research data."
Tie Ying said, "You can leave that to me. Right ** is currently in the United States and can help make arrangements for the scientists and their families. As for hiding things, hehe, our Xiantian Sect is best at hiding things. Otherwise, we would have lost everything in that upheaval twenty years ago."
Shen Lang said gratefully, "Thank you so much, Senior Brother."
Tie Ying said, "We're all family, no need for formalities. What the Xiantian Sect lacks most right now is unity. If we can unite, we'd even be a contender for president. Modern elections are all about financial resources. As for you... weren't you going to university? Just focus on your studies and pretend nothing happened. Don't be too stingy with money; our Xiantian Sect is so poor we only have money left."
Shen Lang smiled and said, "Hehe, as for university, I'm not really that keen on going now. The saying 'A common man is innocent, but possessing a treasure is a crime' has always been true. I suddenly don't remember when I bought this project..." "Right or wrong. If I hadn't bought this project, I'd definitely be living a peaceful life with my woman right now, instead of feeling like I'm surrounded by crises. Forget it, I won't go to university. I'll just stay home and be with my woman, sell some cosmetics, make some movies to relax and have some peace. The political arena is too complicated; I don't want to have too much contact with them."
Tie Ying laughed, "Hehe, whatever you say. But could you tell me when your debut film will be released? I'd love to go and support it."
Shen Lang smiled, "To be honest, the script isn't finished yet. It'll probably be released next year."
"Then I'll look forward to it. Give me a few more premiere tickets, and your sister-in-law, the kids, and I will all go to support you."
"No problem!"...
After several busy days, with the help of the Xiantian Sect, Shen Lang finally saw the scientists off.
Several scientists, all professors at Huaxia University, were passionate about scientific research but not overly rigid. After Shen Lang explained the pros and cons, they all agreed to temporarily go abroad, not even bothering to resign. They simply took their wives and children with them, knowing that their return would be a chance to truly shine.
It wasn't that scientists were unpatriotic, but rather that they didn't want to be pawns or bargaining chips. In fact, they had another concern: if the project were acquired by the government, their hopes for the Nobel Prize might be dashed. This was a tremendous honor for them, not for money or profit, but because no one would refuse the Nobel Prize. The Nobel Prize was like the Oscars in the film industry; being among the first Chinese scientists to potentially win it would be an immense honor, sure to be recorded in history.
As for Chengjia Village, the seed base continued construction. With the financial support of the Xiantianmen, the civil engineering project was expanded exponentially, built to the highest standards, and the construction period would last at least a year. Before reopening, the villagers would definitely not be left without work.
Lin Yan and his girlfriend went to the United States. There was no other way; everyone involved in the project had been sent away, and Lin Yan was no exception.
Tian Qingya, the general manager of Qingtian Company, could finally take a well-deserved rest because she was pregnant.
As for Xia Youran, she was conveniently transferred to Simei Company as the head of the logistics department. Although her experience wasn't very extensive, she could learn gradually.
Sure enough, some people started contacting Shen Lang these days, but Shen Lang was adamant and almost always chased them away.
Soon, Shen Lang faced "retaliation." Qingtian Company's license was revoked, and its office building was listed as a demolition project due to incomplete documentation; it was bulldozed overnight. The civil engineering project in Chengjia Village was completely halted, but thankfully, it wasn't demolished thanks to the intervention of the Xiantian Sect.
However, those people weren't foolish enough to target Shen Lang himself. Out of respect for Shen Lang, who had several powerful fathers-in-law and the Xiantian Sect behind him, they finally withdrew after failing to get what they wanted. Destroying Qingtian Company was a way to vent their frustration.
Aside from being a little annoyed, Shen Lang didn't care too much about these things. As long as the project was still in his hands, everything would eventually come back to normal.
However, there was some good news. Simei Company was about to officially start production, and Shen Lang officially took on the role of the company's sales manager, beginning his busy publicity and marketing work.
These days, Shen Lang lived a peaceful life. Apart from work, he stayed in the courtyard with Tian Qingya, accompanying this woman who was both his wife and his sister.
Tian Qingya was actually less than a month pregnant, but Shen Lang had already deprived her of the right to work, allowing her to stay home and rest during her pregnancy.
On this day, Shen Lang was enjoying a rare moment of leisure, playing chess with Tian Qingya in the courtyard when two uninvited guests suddenly arrived...

Chapter 301 Results Revealed
"Brother Lang, Sister Ya, we're here! We're here to greet our guests!"
Ji Xiyan shouted loudly before even entering the gate, displaying a style reminiscent of Sister Feng (Note: Don't get the wrong idea, it's Wang Xifeng). Her voice preceded her appearance.
Her powerful language skills kicked in again, causing Shen Lang and Tian Qingya to break out in a cold sweat, utterly embarrassed. Anyone who didn't know better would think they were in some kind of...unpleasant place.
Shen Lang cursed, "Ji Xiyan, what nonsense are you spouting? Can't you speak more politely?"
Hu Luoluo, who had entered with Ji Xiyan, chimed in, "Brother, aren't you used to her yet? Her words are always more lethal than her fists."
Ji Xiyan laughed, "Good to know. Let's see if you dare bully me again, relying on your fancy but ineffective martial arts moves!"
Hu Luoluo retorted, "How did we negotiate yesterday? From now on, I'm the older sister, and you're the younger sister!"
Ji Xiyan asked, "Do you have any proof?" "Did you record it or film it?"
Hu Luoluo was speechless, then said angrily, "You, Ji Xiyan, the ceasefire agreement we just signed yesterday is being torn up today! I... I'll beat you up!"
Ji Xiyan hurriedly ran behind Shen Lang, saying triumphantly, "Now that Brother Lang is here, you can't bully me anymore. Brother Lang, you don't know, this brat can't win an argument, so she always resorts to violence. We can't do that! We have to reason with her!"
Shen Lang and Tian Qingya were speechless, watching the two girls bicker.
Before Ji Xiyan could finish speaking, she suddenly noticed a serious problem: Hu Luoluo's eyes suddenly reddened, and she was about to cry.
Ji Xiyan was a little dazed and said guiltily, "Hey, we can't do this! Crying just because you can't argue with someone? Do you think you're a three-year-old?"
Hu Luoluo rolled her eyes at Ji Xiyan and sobbed, "I just haven't been to this courtyard in a long time, and seeing these things makes me nostalgic. What are you thinking? Do you think I'm that easily teased?"
Indeed, this was the first time Hu Luoluo had returned to the courtyard in a long time. The layout of the courtyard hadn't changed much, and seeing these things made her nostalgic, and thinking of her grandfather, she couldn't help but want to cry. Tian Qingya went over and hugged Hu Luoluo tenderly, gently comforting her, "Good Luoluo, don't cry."
Hu Luoluo quickly recovered from her sadness and forced a smile, "Sister Ya, I'm fine, I just... miss Grandpa a little."
Hu Luoluo's sadness infected Shen Lang, who couldn't help but sigh. If it weren't for the woman there, he probably would have shed a few tears too.
To avoid losing his composure, Shen Lang quickly changed the subject, saying, "Ji girl, what brings you two here today? Something up?"
Ji Xiyan exaggeratedly replied, "Brother Lang, you haven't forgotten, have you? Today's the 26th! The college entrance exam results are coming out soon. We wanted to check your scores and discuss college applications." Shen Lang simply said "Oh," realizing that the college entrance exam had been over for almost 20 days, and today was the day the results were released.
"I'm not planning to go to school. You two can discuss your applications."
"What?"
Hu Luoluo and Ji Xiyan exclaimed simultaneously, "Why?"
The two girls felt a sudden disappointment, but at the same time, they hoped Shen Lang was joking.
Shen Lang shrugged and said, "Do you think it's appropriate for me to go to university now? Putting aside the age issue, your sister Ya is pregnant now, and I need to spend as much time as possible with her. As the sales manager, I also have to work on marketing the Super Foundation, and I have a management contract with Starry Sky Company. How can I have time to go to school?" Upon hearing this, Ji Xiyan exclaimed in surprise, "Sister Ya is pregnant? When did that happen? Congratulations! We're going to be little aunties soon, haha!"
Hu Luoluo also stopped crying and said, "Congratulations, Sister Ya! You're so lucky!"
Hu Luoluo couldn't hide her envy, but unfortunately, Tian Qingya couldn't hear it.
Shen Lang said irritably, "Why are you asking that? Do I have to report to you when I got pregnant? Are you from the family planning office?"
Tian Qingya couldn't help but smile; Ji Xiyan's question was too cute.
Ji Xiyan said, "Tch, can't I even show some concern? By the way, you just said you became the sales manager?"
"Yes, so what?"
"How can you do this? You know this is a family business, right? Nepotism! From the general manager to the department managers, it's all you and your woman!"
"Uh..."
Shen Lang said, dizzy, "Girl, don't talk nonsense if you don't know the situation. Besides, we appoint people based on merit!"
"Tch, come on, I've already visited the company. I heard it's officially going into production next month and they're going to Europe for promotion. Can I come along?"
Shen Lang said, "It's fine if you don't go to school."
Ji Xiyan said with a grin, "What if I don't pass the exam?"
Shen Lang said, "Tch, if you don't pass, I'll change my name. I personally helped you cheat. What would happen to my reputation if you didn't pass?"
Hu Luoluo said, "Brother is so confident. Of course, it would be great if you passed, but there's no way to force you if you didn't."
Hu Luoluo suddenly remembered her promise to Shen Lang that she could do "that" with her brother after she got into university. Thinking of this, Hu Luoluo couldn't help but blush. Ji Xiyan said, "Facts speak louder than words. We'll know once we see the results, hmph!"
Shen Lang asked, "When can we check the results?"
Ji Xiyan replied, "Two o'clock this afternoon."
Shen Lang said, "It'll be almost there. It's 1:30 PM now."
Ji Xiyan asked, "Brother Lang, do you have a computer here?"
"Of course!"
Shen Lang said, going to his room to retrieve his laptop.
At exactly two o'clock, the four of them sat around the computer. The atmosphere seemed a little tense. Although Shen Lang was quite confident, the three women couldn't help but feel a little nervous.
Hu Luoluo said nervously, "I seem a little nervous!"
Ji Xiyan followed, "Me too!"
Shen Lang laughed loudly, "What are you nervous about? I guarantee you both will score above 630, or I'll eat this computer." Tian Qingya laughed, "Look at what you're saying, what if you don't get that many points? You're really going to eat it?"
Shen Lang said seriously, "Of course, I'm a man of my word."
He opened the website for the college entrance examination information, found the entrance to check the scores, and entered his admission ticket number and ID number. Then he pressed enter, and his scores immediately appeared: Chinese: 129, Math: 150, English: 135, Humanities: 264, Total: 678. "Wow!"
Ji Xiyan and Hu Luoluo couldn't help but exclaim in surprise. Such high scores! In their eyes, such scores could only exist in legends, and only a bookworm-type top scorer could achieve!
"Brother Lang, you could probably be the top scorer in Xia Jing! Tsk tsk, I admire you so much!"
Ji Xiyan exclaimed exaggeratedly. Hu Luoluo nodded firmly in agreement; the two girls were unusually aligned.
Shen Lang laughed, "Anyway, I'm not going to school. What does it matter if I'm the top scorer? But it seems like I could fetch a good price."
Hu Luoluo laughed, "I doubt it. With such a high score, no one would dare buy it; it would be easily exposed."
Ji Xiyan said, "That's for sure. I doubt anyone would buy it even if they paid us."...
Then Hu Luoluo's scores came out: Chinese: 124, Math: 140, English: 129, Humanities: 256, Total: 649. Hu Luoluo's eyes widened as she stared at the red number; her heart pounded so hard it felt like it would jump out of her chest. She murmured, "Is this mine? I really can't believe it. Last year when I took the entrance exam for the police academy, I only got 580 points." Ji Xiyan slapped Hu Luoluo impatiently, "That's right, it's yours. Move aside, it's my turn! Brother Lang, hurry up and check mine!"
Shen Lang said, "Why are you in such a hurry? The score is already out, it can't be hidden."
Ji Xiyan insisted, "I'm nervous, hurry up!" Tian Qingya
found it amusing and sighed inwardly. Weren't her two younger sisters, Qingyan and Qingxi, just like that when they took the college entrance exam? They were also incredibly nervous on the day they checked their scores and insisted on dragging her to an internet cafe. "It's out, 634!"
"Wow!"
Ji Xiyan almost went crazy, hurriedly checking her scores: Chinese: 123, Math: 132, English: 124, Humanities: 255. Ji Xiyan almost laughed herself silly, saying, "Is this mine? This girl has finally gotten her revenge, haha, this time I'm afraid I'll make that brat Zhang Zihan furious. Did they move out early because they sensed I was going to completely crush her? They moved because they were afraid of losing face? Ahahaha..."
Ji Xiyan's extremely narcissistic words made the other three feel a strong sense of contempt.
After indulging in her narcissism, Ji Xiyan picked up Shen Lang without a second thought, kissed him hard on the face several times, and said, "No, no, I have to hurry home to get my bet back. I bet my dad I'd buy a sports car. Brother Lang, I'll thank you properly later and take you for a ride. Bye everyone!"
With that, Ji Xiyan skipped away, her loud shouts carrying far and wide, startling several small birds perched on the treetops...
The three of them looked at each other, speechless. A typical little madwoman.
Hu Luoluo said happily but regretfully, "It's such a pity. Although Xiaoyan and I can go to university, my brother can't. It's not fun."
Shen Lang laughed, "What does it matter? Anyway, Huaxia University isn't far from this courtyard. It's only three or four bus stops away, and it's a few minutes by car. You can go home for dinner after class."
Hu Luoluo said, "That feels different. If I could sit in the classroom with my brother, that would feel wonderful. All those infatuated girls would be envious of me."
Tian Qingya couldn't help but laugh, "And you're still talking about others... " "You're already infatuated, aren't you?"
Hu Luoluo said, blushing slightly. "I was just thinking about it. Actually, I know that to study well, you have to put in the effort, just like Sister Qingxi and Sister Qingyan. They always get first-class scholarships. I want to be like them. A few days ago, Sister Qingxi and Sister Qingyan took Xiaoyan and me to walk around the campus. It's so beautiful inside, I can't wait to go there, hehe."
The group was immersed in their happy conversation when suddenly a rapid and rude knocking sounded at the main gate, which was quite annoying.
Shen Lang was displeased and frowned, quickly moving over.

Chapter 302 Demolition Notice
Shen Lang opened the door and glanced around impatiently. He saw five or six burly men standing outside, looking like they wanted everyone to know they were bad guys. Each had a face full of menacing features, their foreheads gleaming with oil, but their hair was neatly cut, with two even bald. Perhaps their hairstyles gave them too much confidence; their eyes radiated an air of superiority, as if looking at you was an act of charity.
In the past, seeing such an infuriating appearance and expression, Shen Lang would have attacked without hesitation. But now, he couldn't. This was his own doorstep; bloodshed was undesirable and could cause lasting trouble.
Besides, Tian Qingya was still in the yard. Although she was only a month pregnant, Shen Lang didn't want to frighten her. If it were the middle of the night, it would be fine; he could just drag her somewhere and give her a good dressing down. But it was broad daylight.
Suppressing his disgust, Shen Lang asked, "What are you banging on? Didn't your mother teach you that you have to pay for broken doors?"
Shen Lang's rudeness immediately caused an uproar among the men, who all reached into their waistbands… not to masturbate, but to pull out weapons; their waistbands were bulging, clearly stuffed with something. However, their leader—one of the bald men—stopped his underlings, his face ashen, and said, "Are you the homeowner?" Shen
Lang didn't speak, inwardly spitting in contempt. "Damn it, if I'm not the homeowner, then who are you? "
"This is a demolition notice!"
The leader handed over a piece of paper, an ordinary A4 printer.
Shen Lang was puzzled: "What demolition notice?"
The leader said, "What else could it be? Let me be clear, someone's interested in this land and wants to buy it. They've asked our company to go door-to-door to negotiate. This is a notice for you to prepare for relocation." Shen Lang was speechless. Someone wants this land, and we have to move? That's incredibly arrogant! Anyone who didn't know better would think this was the late Qing Dynasty hundreds of years ago!
Shen Lang glanced at the bulging bulge in the leader's waist and sneered, "How do we negotiate? With steel rods or long knives?"
The leader chuckled and said, "We've seen plenty of hot-tempered people, but in the end, they all obediently comply. If they don't, they end up in the hospital! However, we're generally quite civilized. We like to reason with people. We only resort to steel rods when words fail. I see you're a smart man, sir, so you naturally know what to do, right?"
Shen Lang sneered, "Not bad. I thought you guys were all simple-minded and physically strong, but it turns out some of you are quite eloquent. It seems you're not unintelligent. So, you must understand what I'm saying. Please tell your master to buy land elsewhere and not bother me." One of the henchmen suddenly flared up and cursed, "Damn it, don't push your luck! When have we brothers ever been so polite to people?" "Speak? I'll cripple you!"
Shen Lang sneered. "As the saying goes, a barking dog doesn't bite. Brother, I think your little brother has no future."
The foreman's face darkened further upon hearing this. However, being experienced, he saw that Shen Lang possessed an extraordinary demeanor and showed no sign of nervousness. Moreover, Shen Lang seemed to exude an inexplicable aura, making the foreman unsure of Shen Lang's strength. He was quite wary and had no choice but to temporarily back down. He scolded his underling and then said, "The notice has been delivered. We're being polite first, then resorting to force. Don't blame me for not warning you, you can't afford to offend this company. Don't be stubborn and end up paying the price. We're being polite the first time we're talking to you, but we won't be so accommodating next time. I'll give you a day to consider. We'll come back at this time tomorrow."
With that, the foreman gave the order, and the group of men hurried away. But they didn't really leave; they went to knock on another door. ...
"Honey, what happened? What are those people doing?"
Tian Qingya asked worriedly.
Shen Lang chuckled, "It's nothing. A few hooligans want to buy land; they're probably hired by some real estate company."
Hu Luoluo asked, puzzled, "Brother, why do they want to buy land?"
Shen Lang chuckled again, "What else can they do? Build houses! Real estate is the most profitable industry in China right now. This place is basically a semi-suburb; I didn't expect the demolition frenzy to have spread here."
Hu Luoluo's face immediately turned pale. "Brother, what can we do? Grandpa has lived here for decades; we can't let them just demolish it like this!" Shen Lang said, "Don't worry, Luoluo, with your brother here, they definitely won't be able to demolish it."
Although he said this, Shen Lang was still somewhat uncertain. There had been too many news reports about "Dingzi households" in recent years, and almost none of them had a good ending. The better ones were forcibly evicted, while the unlucky ones even lost their lives.
This was the violence bred by exorbitant profits. China's laws were imperfect, and there was no so-called accountability system; if you died, you died in vain.
Could a small fry like Shen Lang shake up the entire wave of demolitions?
Tian Qingya said with some worry, "Honey, I really like this place too, and I don't want to move."
Shen Lang said, "It's okay, you two stay home first. I'll go out and check the situation first."...
Shen Lang left the courtyard and walked around the area. It seemed that demolition notices had been posted on the walls of the nearby streets.
It looked like a big deal; hundreds of thousands of square meters of land—most companies couldn't afford it. Hearing the discussions of nearby residents, he learned that a large group of people had come this morning, going door-to-door to deliver notices, and then plastering the streets and alleys with them, like annoying flyers.
Several households had arguments with the people delivering the notices, resulting in several physical altercations. Strangely, the nearby police station didn't dispatch officers after receiving the calls.
Although Shen Lang didn't know much about real estate, he had seen a lot and knew some of the inside story. It was a highly profitable industry involving collusion between officials and businessmen, but high profits often come with violence, and the huge profits challenged the bottom line of the rich and heartless. In fact, there are no bottom lines left in this industry, because it has already claimed too many lives.
Frequent demolitions and construction consume vast amounts of steel and cement, propelling the country's GDP to rocket-like heights, claiming one shameful world first after another.
Real estate companies are so arrogant and domineering; if you didn't believe they had collusion with the government, no one would believe that real estate has hijacked the Chinese economy, engaging in murder, arson, and desecration of ancestral graves everywhere.
On one hand, there is violent demolition; on the other hand, there are world-leading housing prices. How difficult it is for people's livelihoods!
The crimes of this industry are countless! ...
Shen Lang really liked this place. Located on the outskirts of the city, most families had a small courtyard, about half an acre in size. After building houses, they would have two or three hundred square meters of open space left, where people would plant various vegetables and fruits, making the whole courtyard lush and fragrant. The houses were also uniquely built, modeled after the courtyard houses of Beijing, but incorporating the unique characteristics of this highland city. They were rustic, beautiful, sturdy, and durable; many were over a hundred years old, more than just houses—they were practically cultural relics.
But even if they were relics, so what? Faced with enormous profits, all obstacles would be toppled and crushed.
Destruction is far easier and more ferocious than construction. Even the sturdiest houses crumble before bulldozers, simply because those protecting them are too weak.
Shen Lang felt he should protect these streets as he would the courtyard Hu Tie had left behind; otherwise, the only trace of his first relative would be erased from this planet.
A home for all? It seemed like just a fairy tale. Shen Lang couldn't help but recall his earlier grand ideal: to provide housing for all the poor in the country!
Difficult!
However, Shen Lang wasn't afraid, because he possessed Super Wheat Rice. He believed in its value and that it would definitely help him realize his ideal. If ten years wasn't enough, then twenty; if twenty years wasn't enough, then fifty…
Shen Lang felt he should register a real estate company as soon as possible. …
Shen Lang wandered around, carefully listening to the discussions of the nearby residents.
It seemed no one wanted to be relocated, not only because they didn't want to leave their ancestral home, but also because the compensation was pitifully low—1000 yuan per square meter for a 400-square-meter courtyard, totaling only 400,000 yuan.
Although Xia Jing wasn't a megacity, it was still the capital of a province, with housing prices rising year after year, the average price exceeding 8000 yuan per square meter. What kind of house could 400,000 yuan buy? 50 square meters? How could that be enough for a whole family?
These small courtyards usually housed three generations, or two generations, more than enough for ten people. But if it were replaced with a 50-square-meter two-bedroom apartment, even stacked on top of each other, it wouldn't fit. Real estate developers, people can't be this shameless.
Shen Lang felt he should do something to protect this peaceful home.
After much thought, he decided that only the wicked could truly be punished, so he made a phone call to Li Yiyang.
"What have you been up to lately?"
Li Yiyang's voice quickly came through: "Nothing to do, bored to death. The Tianhong Gang has unified Xiajing, and the other small gangs have all been driven to prefecture-level cities. In the provincial capital, we're basically the only ones left. It's lonely at the top."
Shen Lang said, "Pah! What are you, a gangster, trying to impress me with your refined tastes? Be careful, you'll attract unwanted attention. Aren't you afraid?"
Li Yiyang chuckled and said, "We don't do anything illegal, what can the government do to us? In fact, the government likes us. Haven't you seen how much better security has been in Xiajing these days? It's all thanks to us."
"Damn, a gangster is talking to me about contributing to social order? This world is truly upside down. You're like a dog chasing a mouse. Where do you put the police?"
"Police? Haha, they've all gone to the places we run to have fun. They're busy."
Shen Lang laughed and cursed, then said, "By the way, seriously, I'll introduce you to a job."
"What kind of job? Ever since that job in Chengjia Village fell through, we brothers have been bored to death. We're on shifts to watch the place, there's a serious labor surplus."
"I'll introduce you to a big job. Come over, it's hard to explain over the phone. My address is at the intersection of Yangshu Road and Liushu Road, walk 50 meters north, there's a small teahouse there. I'll wait for you there."
"Alright! I'll be there in half an hour!"
Li Yiyang hung up the phone happily, immediately gathered a few capable henchmen, and set off in a flurry. ...

Chapter 303 Not a Crime
Half an hour later, Li Yiyang arrived with several capable henchmen, driving two minivans. This wasn't a busy downtown area, the road conditions were a bit bad, and the two minivans drove with unusual flair, overtaking pedestrians and cars, leaving a trail of over thirty meters of yellow smoke behind them, making the minivans look like Halley's Comet.
Upon reaching the designated location, the two minivans screeched to a halt in front of the teahouse, their movements perfectly synchronized, even the screech of their brakes overlapping.
Then, the doors of both vans were simultaneously flung open, as if rehearsed several times. Five or six thugs, surrounding Li Yiyang with a sullen, sly expression, pushed through the narrow teahouse door, causing it to creak and nearly collapse.
Such a display drew everyone's attention, but seeing the group's attire, they fell silent. Who in their right mind would hesitate to enter a small door? It looked like a gang rape. Li Yiyang could be quite intimidating when serious. Nearly 1.9 meters tall, while not exactly a menacing figure, he was still quite large and imposing, possessing a striking presence. If he were carrying a Dragon-Slaying Saber or a Heaven-Reliant Sword, he might even be able to silence a child's tears. However, the effect wasn't bad. The moment that guy stood at the door, the volume of the old men and young men chatting inside the teahouse noticeably decreased.
Li Yiyang, standing at the door, surveyed the area and quickly spotted Shen Lang in the corner. A lewd smile instantly appeared on his face, a transformation so swift it was astonishing, like a eunuch suddenly becoming dignified.
Having spotted their target, the group strode over. This display startled the old men and young men drinking tea in the teahouse, who all thought, "Could this be the legendary江湖 (jianghu, the martial arts world) seeking revenge?" Goodness, no way! Better stay away!
Some tried to get up and leave, afraid of getting caught in the crossfire, but Li Yiyang's henchmen kindly pressed them down, offering a comforting remark: "Don't be afraid, we're good people, hehe!"
"Good people?"
The young man who had been pressed down was a little dizzy. Why couldn't he smell a trace of goodness?
This morning I encountered a group of "good guys" giving me a notice, and this afternoon I encountered another group of "good guys" coming for revenge. Are there too many good people in this world? And you guys are all so burly, practically covered in scars. Are all "good guys" this "non-mainstream" these days?
A few of the underlings had seen Shen Lang in Chengjia Village and learned their lesson. As soon as they saw Shen Lang, without waiting for Li Yiyang's orders, they greeted him warmly from afar: "Big Brother!" The
surrounding old men and young men were startled, but also very relieved. So it turns out they weren't here for revenge after all. They were scared to death. But you really can't judge a book by its cover. Such a decent-looking young man is actually a gangster! Sigh, what couldn't he do? Why did he have to join the underworld? With such a handsome face and physique, even being a "young master" in a place like Heaven on Earth would be more promising than this, wouldn't it? All he does is fight and kill all day. What a waste of such a talented person.
After a few sighs, the old men and young men continued drinking tea and chatting. They'd seen too many "good people" and were immune to them. What's done is done; even if it rains knives, life goes on, right?
Shen Lang was somewhat amused and exasperated by Li Yiyang's group of underlings. He laughed and scolded, "Big brother my foot! I'm not a cell phone. I think I'm older than you guys. Just call me Brother Lang. Sit down." "Brother Lang!"
The underlings laughed heartily. Knowing Shen Lang was a very easygoing guy, and seemingly having been involved in the underworld for a while, they were basically "like-minded," so they were much more relaxed and found seats.
"Boss, two more pots of tea, and some snacks to tide me over. I'm starving!"
Li Yiyang roared loudly, his voice almost shaking the roof tiles off. It was a pity this was a multi-story building without tiles; otherwise, one could have witnessed a spectacular sight of countless tiles cascading down.
The owner and the tea drinkers all shivered. No tiles flew down, but a few teacups did break, clattering to the floor with a rather pleasant sound. The owner felt sorry for the broken teacups and sighed inwardly, thinking that this young man was probably the reincarnation of Zhang Fei, the Black Whirlwind, a hero in his past life, a figure of murderous intent rising at Changban Bridge, spear in hand, eyes wide open. A roar like thunder shook the heavens, single-handedly repelling Cao Cao's million-strong army! He's still a hero in this life, but unfortunately, he's in a time of peace and prosperity, lacking the soldiers to wield his power. He can only shatter a few teacups, but even so, his heroism remains undiminished, his charisma still remarkable…
Shen Lang was caught off guard by Li Yiyang's outburst, spilling tea on the table. He couldn't help but laugh and curse, "Damn it, would it kill you to speak properly? Shouting like that, you could be heard three miles away."
Li Yiyang, unaware of his own immense power, shattered several teacups with a single roar—it was practically ultrasound! Scratching his head, he grinned, "Oops, oops. I've been in nightclubs too much, I thought I was in one. You know the atmosphere there, you can't be heard unless you shout, hehe." Shen Lang broke out in a cold sweat, teasingly saying, "Too many nightclubs, be careful you don't die from exhaustion!"
Li Yiyang looked unconvinced and said, "What are you talking about? Ever since I met my little Chengcheng in Chengjia Village, I've turned over a new leaf. Ask these guys how I've kept myself pure these past few days. Those sluts have stripped naked and been riding on top of me, but I still haven't gotten an erection."
His underlings nodded hurriedly, confirming that this was true.
Shen Lang exclaimed in surprise, "Really? Impotent?"
Li Yiyang seemed greatly wronged, saying, "What are you talking about? Can't I reform? You don't know how gentle and virtuous my little Chengcheng is. A top student from Huaxia University married a near-illiterate guy like me. I'm not that ungrateful; I resolutely reformed." Shen Lang couldn't help but say in surprise, "Now that you mention it, I'd like to meet your wife. I want to give her a banner: 'Advanced Worker Who Returned to His Prodigal Son.'"
Li Yiyang smiled "honestly," "Of course, of course."
Shen Lang said, "Alright, let's talk business first. We can chat after that."
Li Yiyang and his henchmen immediately stopped smiling and sat up straight.
Shen Lang said, both amused and exasperated, "Isn't that a bit much?"
Li Yiyang said, "We're an organized and disciplined gang. We need to maintain a certain image while working."
Shen Lang was speechless. What kind of image does a gangster need? Do you think you're a party member?
Pointing to the demolition notices plastered all over the street, Shen Lang lowered his voice and said, "See those demolition notices plastered all over the streets?"
Li Yiyang also lowered his voice and said, "See them? What, you want a piece of the pie too, you brat?"
Shen Lang was so angry he almost slapped Li Yiyang, this idiot, and said with a hint of exasperation, "A piece of the pie? If I wanted money, I could just rob a few corrupt officials. Why get involved in real estate? That's a bloody industry. Aren't you afraid of being cursed to have no descendants?"
Li Yiyang chuckled awkwardly and said, "Then what do you mean, you brat? Just say it. I may not be good at understanding, but I'm definitely good at executing." Shen Lang said in a low voice, "It's simple. You guys find a way to ruin this for me."
Li Yiyang asked, puzzled, "How do you ruin it? Why? Do you have a grudge against that real estate company?"
"A grudge?"
Shen Lang chuckled coldly. "You could say that. Tell me, if someone wanted to demolish your house, wouldn't you consider them a grudge?"
Li Yiyang slammed his hand on the table, his eyes wide, and roared, "Of course! Whoever dares to demolish my house, I
'll tear their bones apart!" Shen Lang said, "That's right. There are three irreconcilable feuds: killing one's father and mother, digging up one's ancestral graves, and demolishing one's house. They want to demolish my house, so naturally they have a grudge against me. I quite like this place and don't want it to be demolished."
Li Yiyang chuckled and said, "That's simple. I'll just take a few brothers and smash up that real estate company. Even wiping out the CEO's entire family wouldn't be a problem. I don't see what this is all about."
Several of his underlings also volunteered, their faces filled with shared hatred and their fighting spirit extremely high. Shen Lang's face darkened instantly. He began to doubt whether hiring these violent thugs was the right thing to do. He said irritably, "Damn it, if smashing up someone's company worked, I'd have done it myself. What would I need you guys for? I'm a pacifist, I don't like fighting. So there's a prerequisite: you can't break the law. As for the method, that's irrelevant."
Li Yiyang said, looking frustrated, "Langzi, you've stumped me. Our specialty is breaking the law! You're telling us not to break the law, but..." "Preventing the demolition? Isn't that asking the impossible?"
Shen Lang kindly reminded them, "What constitutes a crime? It's not something you can just commit on a whim. Legal matters require evidence! If there's no evidence, then it's not a crime."
Upon hearing this, Li Yiyang and the others were immediately awestruck by Shen Lang, their faces filled with admiration. "As expected of our leader, your insight is so clear! You all should learn from him. Knowledgeable people are truly different, haha."
Shen Lang was speechless. What knowledge? I didn't even graduate high school! This isn't how you flatter someone!
"Let me give you another heads-up. Apparently, that real estate company hired some kind of security firm to handle the negotiations and forced demolition, and they haven't even got government approval. This is definitely shady business, usually done at night. These streets are decades old; there are absolutely no security cameras, and the streetlights are sparse and dim—practically nonexistent. You'd be hard-pressed to find such good working conditions anywhere in Xiajingdu. If you still manage to give them leverage, then… don't even mention knowing me."
Li Yiyang wasn't stupid; he understood immediately and laughed heartily, "Fine, Langzi, we brothers are professionals. Just wait and see what happens every night. We brothers aren't afraid of anyone, but what we love most is hitting someone with a club, especially the sound of bones cracking—it's more exciting than any music…"
The henchmen nodded emphatically, looking on with a knowing expression.
Shen Lang was speechless, simply paid the bill and left. Damn, too raunchy and violent… but, he liked it. …

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