Chapter 450 Extortion?
After saying this, he ignored Jiang Bai's unpleasant expression, glanced at Jiang Bai, and gave him a very impolite once-over before lazily saying, "Alright, I've said what I needed to say. If you want to listen, sit down. If you don't want to listen, then leave!"
"Don't make it sound like we're bureaucratic or bullying young people."
These two are really getting into it.
Jiang Bai was so angry that he almost couldn't hold back and was about to take action.
I got a bit upset with the group today, and I was already in a bad mood. Then these two guys, I don't even know who they are, dared to act arrogantly in front of me.
He's just a minor official!
What is that?!
He even pointed his finger at Cheng Tiangang and cursed him, let alone two minor officials.
Of course, these two are quite old for ordinary people.
However, Jiang Bai held back, not out of fear or concern for the consequences, but because he was waiting for someone.
He knew before he came that he couldn't get along with these bureaucrats, and today Geng Yi had already vaguely mentioned the name of the Meng Dynasty. These bureaucrats couldn't possibly not know this, but they were pretending not to know, so there must be a reason.
Jiang Bai knew he couldn't expect to get anywhere by talking to these two guys here. Besides getting angry and eventually beating them up, he couldn't think of anything else he could do.
Therefore, Jiang Bai wisely chose to send someone over to talk.
Don't forget, Jiang Bai also has friends in the capital.
So he sat down without saying a word.
Zhang Yang, standing nearby, said with a forced smile, "Gentlemen, as you can see, our boss has come in person. If you have any complaints, please feel free to speak up, and we will definitely make improvements. However, regarding this approval process..."
"Hmph, this matter is still very difficult to handle after we have studied it. You need to understand that your industry is an emerging industry with no precedent. If we rashly open the door, the impact will be huge. We need to study it carefully. Overall, we support it, but the approval process will take some time."
Feng Lu began speaking in a lazy, bureaucratic tone, as did the person next to her.
Their movements were almost identical. Judging from their previous performance, the two were old acquaintances. So when Feng Lu spoke, Ma Xiang did not object, but simply nodded in agreement.
"I wonder how long it will take?" Zhang Yang couldn't help but ask.
"That's hard to say. It could be as quick as two or three days, or as slow as two or three years. Who knows? There's no guarantee for these things, don't you think?" Ma Xiang said with a smile.
This time, Feng Lu nodded in agreement.
"Then what can you two do to expedite this matter?" Zhang Yang couldn't help but ask after hearing this.
He was extremely dissatisfied with these two bureaucrats, but when he asked them for favors, he couldn't go against their wishes, otherwise offending them would make things much more difficult.
"That's easy. As long as your company allocates some funds to smooth things over, I think it should be done quickly!" Feng Lu said with a smile, glancing at Jiang Bai as she spoke.
This surprised Jiang Bai, but then he realized that the two people who insisted on seeing him at noon today were doing it for this reason.
Is it because they're afraid Zhang Yang won't be able to make the decisions?
You've gone too far with your extortion!
Two greedy bastards!
Jiang Bai was truly impressed. These two were willing to disregard the Meng Dynasty's reputation for a little money? They really had guts!
I just don't know if they'll live to spend the money once they get it.
Little did they know that the two had already drunk too much at noon. Geng Yi couldn't contact Meng Huangchao and didn't dare to bring Meng Huangchao up directly, so he spoke in a mumbled way and the other party didn't understand him at all.
"I wonder how much dredging is needed?" Jiang Bai asked with a gloomy expression.
He despised corrupt officials more than anything in his life and would never associate with such people.
You can say that it's fine if we're friends having a meal and drinks together, or even if Jiang Bai helps pay the bill or gives you a small gift. But if you're extorting money, engaging in such heartless embezzlement and bribery, then I'm sorry... Jiang Bai doesn't like you.
"We've done the math, and for our two departments, we'll need at least 50 million! What do you think? If we can get that money to smooth things over, we can get the approval from you tomorrow morning. If not... well, that'll be troublesome."
Feng Lu chuckled and then said this.
Just then, the door was pushed open, and a man in his thirties walked in, wearing a Zhongshan suit. He entered with an air of nonchalance. Who else could it be but Cheng Tiangang?
As soon as he came in, he asked, "If this 'unblocking fee' isn't paid, what's the problem? Tell me about it."
Jiang Bai chuckled upon hearing this, and without standing up, pulled out the empty seat next to him for the other person to sit down.
"Who are you?!" Feng Lu asked first.
Ma Xiang, standing nearby, also frowned. Seeing Jiang Bai's behavior, he immediately said unhappily, "Hey Boss Jiang, why are you bringing all sorts of shady characters here? Don't you have any manners? Are you even going to eat here?!"
"Eat, of course we'll eat. You two may not know, but I'm Jiang Bai's partner. We came together. I had something to do earlier and couldn't be here. I just arrived and overheard you two talking, so I took the liberty of asking. Please don't mind, leaders."
Before Jiang Bai could speak, Cheng Tiangang spoke first, saying with a smile.
He was dressed very young today, in a Zhongshan suit, with his hair down, unlike his previous slicked-back hairstyle. He looked like a young man in his thirties, completely unlike his previous leader's demeanor.
What surprised Jiang Bai even more was that Cheng Laohu actually smiled. He seemed quite familiar with the situation. If you didn't know him, you would think he was some old fox who had just appeared out of nowhere.
Although Zhang Yang and his colleagues were somewhat bewildered, not knowing when they had gained another boss, they wisely kept quiet and remained silent.
On the contrary, Geng Zhong looked at Cheng Tiangang thoughtfully.
"Heh, need I even ask? Without this'smoothing fee,' you definitely wouldn't have gotten the permit. It's such a simple question, do I really need to remind you? How do you run a business?"
Ma Xiang sneered, and after hearing Cheng Tiangang's explanation, he believed it. He then resumed his previous arrogant and haughty demeanor.
"I have a bad habit: I hate giving gifts, and I despise corrupt officials! What you two are talking about as 'facilitation fees'? In the end, didn't that money end up in your own pockets?"
"It's our company's right to apply for approval. We're acting in accordance with the law. What right do you have to obstruct us? Let me tell you now, if you dare to extort or demand bribes on this issue, I will definitely report it to the Discipline Inspection Commission!"
Cheng Tiangang said with a righteous expression, but his true colors were revealed when he said this, and he started to take things too seriously.
Chapter 451 Young Master Meng Loses His Temper
Upon hearing this, Geng Yi immediately wanted to interject, but was stopped by Geng Zhong.
Zhang Yang and the others over there also showed anxious expressions, wondering what Jiang Bai's friend did.
Are they here to help, or to cause trouble?
The other party's asking price was indeed a bit high and unreasonable, but in today's society, which company doesn't operate this way?
Some people offer even more money, but there's no guarantee that the deal will be done.
Now that the other party wants money, Zhang Yang suggests that they just give it to them, like being bitten by a dog. As long as they can get the approval, he is quite optimistic about the online financial payment sector and will be able to earn the money back sooner or later.
But if we fall out with these two people now and they refuse to approve it no matter what, the consequences will be serious. If we wait for someone else to make the first move, it will be too late.
At that point, Empire Online will be choked by someone's hand.
So he and his men were very anxious.
But he wasn't the boss after all. Didn't he see the big boss standing there with a smile on his face, completely unconcerned?
What can these migrant workers say?
Unfortunately, what they said was useless; only what Cheng Tiangang said was effective.
As soon as Cheng Tiangang said those words, Ma Xiang and Feng Lu's expressions changed immediately.
Ma Xiang slammed his hand on the table and stood up abruptly!
"Hmph! You don't know what's good for you! I guess you don't need to eat this meal anymore! Let me tell you the truth, as long as I'm still in office, you can forget about getting any approvals from your company!"
"Let me tell you, no matter who you ask for help this time, I won't give you any face! Just you wait!" Ma Xiang roared angrily.
After saying that, he turned to leave.
Feng Lu, who was standing next to her, also sneered: "It will probably be very difficult for your company to get loans from various banks in the future. I believe that major banks will take your company into consideration in the future. Of course... the approval documents you want will also be impossible."
"Mountains may not move, but rivers will; we'll meet again."
Having said that, they stood up and turned to leave.
Zhang Yang and his companions quickly stopped them, pleading with them to stay.
Jiang Bai remained motionless, glancing at Cheng Tiangang with a clear message: "Look at how you ruined my plans to host a dinner party and give gifts. I'm going to hold you responsible for this from now on."
In response, Cheng Tiangang nodded with a gloomy face, his not-so-large eyes glancing at the two angry-faced men in front of him who were about to leave. It seemed he had already planned to deal with these two.
Jiang Bai mourned for the fate of these two. They were being watched by Minister Cheng, and it wouldn't be long before they were being "chatted" inside.
Although Cheng Tiangang is not in charge of this area, if he didn't even have this much influence, then he wouldn't be Cheng Tiangang.
Just then, Geng Yi's phone rang, followed by an arrogant voice. The voice was loud, and Geng Yi's phone was also very loud. More importantly, after looking at the number, he intentionally or unintentionally turned on speakerphone.
The first thing they said was, "What's up, Xiaogengzi? How's it going with my brother's matter?"
"Young Master Meng, everything else is going smoothly, but there's a bit of trouble with the financial regulators and information departments. President Feng and Director Ma are currently at odds and refuse to help. They even said that our brother's company will never get through this approval process again."
Although Geng Yi hadn't said a word just now, he was seething with anger. He couldn't get in touch with Meng Huangchao before, so he had no choice. Now that he could, he naturally wouldn't hold back and immediately complained to Young Master Meng.
He knew this young master Meng's temper all too well; he was someone who feared no one, not even the Emperor himself. Anyone who provoked him would surely meet a bad end.
And most importantly, this guy is completely unreasonable and has a huge background. He's a total scoundrel in the capital!
No one wanted to provoke the Meng Dynasty, not even officials of all ranks. It was normal for lower-ranking officials to be afraid, but as for higher-ranking officials...
Um, I'm still scared, but the fear is different now.
The official was afraid that Meng Huangchao was completely unreasonable and would start beating people up right away. This guy had a bad track record of going to someone's workplace and beating up a deputy director of a ministry's office in public.
Moreover, he has a constant stream of underhanded tricks that could get you fired at any time, and you have absolutely no way to deal with him.
As for the high-ranking officials being afraid of him, it's not that they're afraid of him in any way. He wouldn't dare to really roll up his sleeves and fight those big shots. But he doesn't dare to confront those big shots. The sons of those big shots are an exception. The sons of officials, big and small, suffer greatly because of him.
Therefore, Meng Huangchao had a terrible reputation throughout the capital. Geng Yi was also quite wary of Meng Huangchao, knowing what kind of temperament he was. This was a way of putting Meng Huangchao in a bad light.
Sure enough, the eye drops worked. After a brief moment of stunned silence, Meng Huangchao suddenly erupted: "Who is it? Which bastard dares to disrespect me, Meng Huangchao? I'll make sure that worthless official is fired tomorrow! What a piece of trash!"
A single sentence silenced the previously noisy and bustling environment. Feng Lu and Ma Xiang, who had been clamoring to leave, were also stunned. Upon hearing the name Meng Huangchao, they instinctively shivered and their faces turned extremely pale.
Meng Huangchao on the other end wasn't finished. He yelled, "Let that guy answer the phone. I'll ask him if he's not giving me face! Is he trying to mess with me? If he dares to say a single yes, I'll do nothing else but make trouble for that bastard!"
"Um, Mr. Feng, Director Ma, Young Master Meng is looking for you two."
At this moment, Geng Yi's playboy demeanor kicked in, and he spoke in a nonchalant tone while holding the phone.
With Meng Huangchao backing him up, his prestige instantly rose several levels, and he no longer took the two people in front of him seriously.
Feng Lu and Ma Xiang looked at each other blankly for a long time, neither daring to answer the phone. They wore bitter smiles and stared at Geng Yi in front of them.
Geng Yi was a smart man. Seeing the expressions on the two men's faces, he knew what was going on. He smiled and said, "Young Master Meng, please don't be angry. Let me talk to you two again. If you don't agree, I will report back to you!"
As he spoke, Cheng Tiangang leaned close to Jiang Bai and whispered, "What's the meaning of you hanging out with a spoiled brat like Meng Huangchao? If you need anything, come to me, I'll help you. Meng Huangchao has no official position, what right does he have to interfere with policy implementation?"
Cheng Tiangang subtly revealed his dissatisfaction to Jiang Bai. He knew this was the current state of society, where some spoiled brats would flaunt their power and influence by relying on the authority of their parents and grandparents, and even interfere with some administrative work.
He deeply abhorred this, but even he, Cheng Tiangang, could hardly reverse this trend single-handedly. If he hadn't encountered it, he would have let it go, but since he had, Cheng Tiangang naturally couldn't sit idly by.
"He's my public relations manager. If I don't let him handle this, who will? Don't you think so? And you see, he seems to only trust this guy!" Jiang Bai said in a low voice with a smile.
Cheng Tiangang glared at Jiang Bai but didn't say anything more.
He knew it was useless to talk to him; Jiang Bai definitely wouldn't listen to him. He just didn't approve of Jiang Bai's behavior from the bottom of his heart.
Chapter 452 They've already started fighting?
"Gentlemen, what should we do about this now? Is there any room for maneuver? If not, then I'll tell Young Master Meng directly and ask him to talk to you two when he has time."
After hanging up the phone, Geng Yi looked at Feng Lu and Ma Xiang with a smile, no longer showing the obsequious and somewhat arrogant demeanor he had before. He kept shaking his phone in his hand.
"No need, no need... We'll handle this as soon as possible. Young Master Meng has already asked, how can we not help? Hehe..."
Geng Yi's words made the two of them quite embarrassed, and they were both stunned for a moment. Ma Xiang reacted quickly enough, immediately showing a smile and hurriedly responding.
He stopped talking about leaving and, with a big smile on his face, pulled Feng Lu to sit down again.
He then tactfully said to Feng Lu, "Director Feng, we believe there shouldn't be any problems on our end. I wonder how it is on your end?"
After saying that, he quickly gave Feng Lu a wink, signaling him to speak quickly.
Although Meng Huangchao wasn't a government employee, he had a remarkable grandfather and a powerful father, so no one wanted to mess with him, let alone him and Feng Lu.
He was considered a big shot by Feng Lu, but that was in the eyes of ordinary people. To these top-level princelings, he was just a nobody.
They can't afford to offend this person, no matter who they are. If they really do, will they ever have a good life again?
I don't know what the Meng Dynasty would dare to do to them now.
I'll just give them a little naughty talk from the old man later, and they'll be in big trouble.
Moreover, everyone knows that Meng Huangchao is completely reckless. To put it bluntly, he's just an immature brat. But this brat has an amazing background and is very bold. He dares to use any underhanded tricks and do any dirty work.
Provoking him would be like inviting a huge mess into your life.
If Meng Huangchao really sets his sights on him, Ma Xiang knows he has no way to deal with it. In just a few days, he and Feng Lu will be finished.
So he wisely compromised immediately, and even gave Feng Lu a wink, signaling him to be more sensible.
It wasn't a big deal to begin with; they could have handled it with a single word. There was no need to create a formidable enemy that they couldn't afford to offend.
Upon hearing Ma Xiang's action, Feng Lu immediately realized what was happening. She then smiled broadly and quickly said, "We'll go back and discuss this, but I think it shouldn't be a big problem."
Although it was somewhat embarrassing—they had been putting on airs and shouting just moments before, but now they'd backed down after a single phone call—it was truly shameful and made them both lose face. However… when faced with tangible benefits, Feng Lu quickly made a choice.
"Hmph, what a disgrace!"
Cheng Tiangang snorted coldly and said in a low voice.
I am extremely dissatisfied with the performance of these two people.
Fortunately, he wasn't in charge of those two; otherwise, he probably would have slammed his fist on the table and chairs, and gone so far as to dismiss them both.
Although he was unhappy, Cheng Tiangang remained silent. He knew that Jiang Bai had asked him to help maintain order, not to cause trouble. Since things had already been settled, there was no need for him to make things worse.
However, he had already secretly decided that once Jiang Bai's matter was over, he would definitely deal with these two parasites and completely remove them from the team.
As Feng Lu was speaking, her phone suddenly rang. Startled, Feng Lu gave those around her an apologetic look before going outside to answer the call. Her voice wasn't loud near the door, and Jiang Bai didn't pay much attention, only hearing the name "Second Young Master Li."
Jiang Bai frowned at this.
Jiang Bai knew exactly who Li Er was.
Li Qingdi's younger brother, and the mortal enemy of the Meng Dynasty.
Calling at this time is definitely not a good thing.
However, Jiang Bai didn't care about this. Wasn't there a great god sitting next to him?
Meng Huangchao and Li Er were both powerful young masters who could change the world with a wave of their hand, top-tier playboys, but in front of Cheng Tiangang, they were nothing. With Minister Cheng sitting here, Jiang Bai was as steady as Mount Tai.
As expected, after listening to the phone call, Feng Lu kept nodding and bowing, then walked over to Ma Xiang and whispered something extremely rudely in his ear.
A moment later, Feng Lu raised her head, looked at Jiang Bai and the others in front of her, and said coldly, "I know who Meng Huangchao is, but he can't interfere with our decisions. If he really has something to do, he can come to us! Anyway, I'm sorry, we can't handle this matter!"
Ma Xiang also stood up and said with a smile, "Everyone, just pretend you didn't hear what I said earlier. I've thought about it again, and your company... is still not qualified enough. So, let's just let this matter go and talk about it again in a few years when we have the chance!"
These two changed their tune at an astonishing speed; they denied everything in the blink of an eye.
Such behavior left everyone speechless. Even Cheng Tiangang was somewhat stunned. He had seen people turn their backs on him before, but this was the first time he had ever seen someone change their attitude several times in just a few minutes.
"I really underestimated their shamelessness!" Cheng Tiangang said in a low voice, annoyed.
"Gentlemen, are you not going to give Young Master Meng any face? Should I call him now?"
At this moment, Geng Yi stood up and said coldly.
His status was not high; his father's rank was only equivalent to the two people in front of him. Logically speaking, he was not qualified to speak here.
But now he is representing the Meng Dynasty. Since the Meng Dynasty himself is not here, he is just an agent. These two guys in front of him are clearly changing their minds at any time. If he doesn't say anything, how will he face the Meng Dynasty in the future?
"Of course we should give Young Master Meng face, but this is an exception. We should give Young Master Meng face, but can't we not give Second Young Master Li face? Geng Yi, after all, Meng Huangchao can't even return to the capital right now. So, tell me, whose face should we give?"
"Also, I'd like to advise you, you're so young, don't always follow Meng Huangchao around. Young people should broaden their horizons. Meng Huangchao isn't in the capital, but you are, and your father is too. If Young Master Li wants to deal with you, it'll be a piece of cake."
"Moreover, although Elder Meng is formidable and Elder Li is no less so, Meng Huangchao's father is somewhat inferior to Li Ershao's father. Besides... there's also Chairman Li."
"I believe you can figure out what to do. We won't stay here any longer, goodbye," Feng Lu said with a smile.
"Chairman Li? Li Qingdi?" Jiang Bai was taken aback and asked Cheng Tiangang in a low voice. He didn't know who Feng Lu was talking about.
"Li Qingdi! Who else could it be but him? Don't tell me you, Jiang Bai, don't know what Li Qingdi does. He's the chairman of the Charity Federation. It seems these two aren't giving Meng Huangchao any face. I wonder if they'll give me any face either!"
Cheng Tiangang snorted coldly and said with dissatisfaction.
Chapter 453 Li Er Cried
"etc."
After Cheng Tiangang finished speaking to Jiang Bai, he immediately spoke up.
He was called over by Jiang Bai to support him and, in a way, to help Jiang Bai get things done. If these two people were to leave now, what would be the point of Jiang Bai calling him over?
Cheng Tiangang was very clear about this.
Because he understood, he spoke up.
Of course, Cheng Tiangang could also contact higher-ups to handle the matter after they left. Given Cheng Tiangang's influence, it wouldn't be difficult to get it done.
The key point is that Cheng Tiangang couldn't stand their attitudes, and even more importantly, he couldn't stand Li Er, who had just called them. So at this moment, Cheng Tiangang spoke up and stopped the two who were about to leave.
"What? Aren't we allowed to leave yet?" Feng Lu sneered at Cheng Tiangang.
He didn't know who Cheng Tiangang was, but when he came, he was very arrogant and spoke in a very sharp way, thinking that he was great just because he had some money.
He looks down on this kind of person the most.
Now that they've essentially broken ties with Jiang Bai and his group, as well as the Meng Dynasty, they have no more reservations and just want to say a few words.
Feng Lu wasn't the only one with this thought; Ma Xiang next to her felt the same way. Cheng Tiangang had been far too arrogant when he arrived, which they found very distasteful. So, as soon as Feng Lu finished speaking, Ma Xiang chimed in, "Let me tell you, don't think you're anything special just because you have a little money and have curried favor with the Meng Dynasty!"
"There's no room for negotiation on this!"
"I've seen plenty of arrogant people like you. Let me tell you, don't try that with us. You want to report us? Go ahead! And let me tell you, we're not afraid at all! Go ahead, go ahead!" Feng Lu added insult to injury.
"What is that!" the two shouted in unison, then looked at each other, burst into laughter, and prepared to turn and leave.
Jiang Bai inwardly gave the two of them a big thumbs up for their actions.
These two guys have guts! They've got guts!
Well done!
"Bring Li Er over here! I want to ask him if he's trying to interfere with the operation of government agencies! Is he just looking for trouble?!"
Cheng Tiangang's face turned ashen, and he spoke coldly. Those who knew him knew he was truly angry.
And they didn't even give Li Qingdi any face!
This is to pick a fight with Li Er.
"Who do you think you are, daring to call Young Master Li here to see you?"
Feng Lu sneered at this, thinking that Cheng Tiangang was delusional. Who did he think he was, daring to let Young Master Li come to see him?
Do you really think that just because you've latched onto the Meng Dynasty, you're something special?
Even the Meng Dynasty didn't have that ability!
"Heh, if they want to see me, I'll see them. I'd like to see which scoundrels Meng Huangchao has met who actually wants to see me? Well, here I am, tell me, what do you want to see me for?"
"If it's about this, then there's nothing more to say. I'll tell you straight, I just don't like you. Haha, I just don't like you, Jiang Bai, so what can you do about it! This is my territory! I can do whatever I want with you."
Just then, Li Er appeared outside the door without anyone noticing.
Perhaps Li Er was already there when they arrived, otherwise he wouldn't have called to give instructions.
I don't know why, but Li Er has arrived.
He walked in aggressively, accompanied by two extremely hot and beautiful young girls, one on each side, followed by seven or eight smiling lackeys, who all looked like rich young men or sons of high-ranking officials.
As soon as he walked in, Li Er pointed at Cheng Tiangang, who had his back to the door, and shouted, "Grandson! Weren't you the one who spoke just now? Come here and let your grandpa see who you are. Such a big mouth, I don't know where you came from... you bastard..."
Li Er was extremely high-profile, as if he had drunk quite a bit of alcohol. He pointed at Cheng Tiangang with his head held high and started cursing, as if he wanted to crush this ungrateful fellow and Jiang Bai.
But when he saw that face that had turned around and turned ashen, he couldn't say another word.
The sound abruptly stopped, and his face turned bright red, leaving the others in the room somewhat stunned.
"Cheng...Cheng..."
Li Er stammered as he looked at Cheng Tiangang in front of him, almost bursting into tears.
He heard that Jiang Bai's company was in the capital on business, and Meng Huangchao had sent one of his underlings to handle the matter, so he rushed over in a great hurry.
The purpose was to thoroughly crush Jiang Bai and, incidentally, slap Meng Huangchao in the face.
But who would have thought that Jiang Bai, that bastard, would actually call Cheng Laohu over?
Thinking about how he had just pointed at Cheng Laohu's face and cursed him, Li Er felt like dying.
"Our second young master is saying, you bastard, who knows where you came from, daring to run wild in the capital? You should take a piss and look in the mirror! What a piece of trash you are!"
A spoiled brat who had been following Li Er stepped forward, pointed at Cheng Tiangang, and began to curse, uttering the very words that Li Er had swallowed back earlier.
After saying that, he looked at Li Er with a fawning expression and said, "Second Young Master, is that what you mean?"
This really made Li Er cry. If it were someone else who cursed him, he wouldn't have to. But who was it?
This is Cheng Laohu!
Even his brother had to give Cheng Laohu a wide berth, let alone Li Er.
He swallowed his words halfway through his sentence, so why is this bastard still cursing?
Is it because they feel that Cheng Laohu isn't angry enough, and they're afraid that when they deal with him, they won't be ruthless enough?
To his dismay, the bastards behind him burst into laughter.
"It's...it's a fart!"
Upon hearing this, Li Er immediately roared and, without hesitation, slapped the lapdog he usually used so effectively across the face.
Then, still feeling unsatisfied, he quickly added two more blows, "crackling" the other person until they were stunned. Finally, he kicked them away, glaring at them fiercely, wishing he could devour them!
Li Er was convinced that this guy was definitely sent by his rival to trick him! Absolutely!
His actions bewildered those following him, but Li Er ignored them. He turned around and slapped the man and woman closest to him hard across the face, shouting, "Laugh! Anyone who laughs again, I'll kill them when I get back!"
After saying that, he quickly turned his head away, bowed and scraped, and gave a smile that looked more like a grimace. He said dryly, "Brother Cheng... I really didn't know... I really didn't know you were here. If I had known, I wouldn't have dared to say that even if you gave me two lives."
"Hehe, don't talk to me like that. You, Young Master Li, are a big shot in the capital. How could I, some nobody from out of town, dare to be called 'brother' by you, Young Master Li?"
In response, Cheng Tiangang sneered and mocked, making no attempt to hide his anger.
Chapter 454 The person in question called.
"Who do you think you are? Do you even know who Young Master Li is? How dare you talk to me like that! Let me tell you, Young Master Li is..."
A pretty young girl who had been holding Li Er in his arms earlier suddenly stood up and pointed at Cheng Tiangang, shouting.
In her heart, Li Er was heaven and earth, and no one in the capital could compare to him. She considered herself Li Er's woman and immediately spoke up at this moment.
"I'm your father, you filthy bitch, shut up! Do you even have the right to speak here?"
Unfortunately, before she could finish speaking, she was met with a loud slap and Li Er's angry curses.
"Brother Cheng, the youngest daughter is just being immature. Her father is quite a figure in the area, which has led to her having this kind of personality. She doesn't know her place. Please don't take it to heart."
It seems that Li Er still likes this girl quite a bit. Although he slapped her, he still didn't forget to explain to Cheng Tiangang.
"Why are you telling me all this? Do you think I'm just like you? Would I bully these kids?"
Cheng Tiangang was even more displeased. Who did Li Er think he was?
Is he a spoiled brat like him?
Would they bully a little girl?
"That's...that's..."
Li Er quickly forced a smile, his mind racing as he tried to figure out how to resolve the situation. Directly cursing Cheng Laohu by name was no small matter; if it wasn't resolved, he wouldn't be able to sleep well.
If Cheng Laohu can't handle his brother, how can he not handle him?
Besides, even his imposing elder brother might not help him in this matter.
He knew perfectly well that his boss needed Cheng Tiangang's help with something, and the two were currently working together. If he ruined things because of him, then...
Knowing his own brother as he did, he was absolutely capable of breaking his own legs.
It wasn't a fake fight, it was a real fight...
When I was a child, I caused him trouble, which resulted in a road being blocked, and I spent more than a year in the hospital recovering.
The thought of this sent a chill down Li Er's spine.
He feared neither heaven nor earth, but what he feared most was his elder brother, Li Qingdi.
"But I'm not going to argue with her, I'm going to argue with you! Li Er, tell me, how are we going to settle this today?"
Cheng Tiangang glanced at Li Er indifferently and said noncommittally.
"Well... whatever you say goes."
Li Er said with a bitter face, he thought for a long time but still couldn't figure out how to resolve this matter.
An apology?
That's for sure!
Losing money?
Um... it seems like Tiger Cheng isn't short of money either.
Pay for a woman?
Uh, if you really dare to say that, Tiger Cheng would probably beat himself to death. Everyone knows how infatuated Tiger Cheng is.
For a moment, Li Er didn't know how to answer Cheng Tiangang's question, and after a long pause, he managed to utter this sentence.
"Hmph, we'll talk about your business with me later. Let's talk about you two scoundrels! Embezzlement and bribery! You've done all sorts of evil! It's simply outrageous! As state cadres, you have no integrity whatsoever, and you've turned two spoiled brats into your lapdogs! It's utterly absurd!"
Cheng Tiangang snorted twice, glanced at Li Er, said this, and then turned his attention to Feng Lu and Ma Xiang, who were standing there somewhat dumbfounded.
If they still can't see anything wrong by now, they might as well go and die. Although they don't know who Cheng Tiangang is, they can tell that he must be an extraordinary person.
Otherwise, the once powerful and influential Second Young Master Li wouldn't have become so submissive and timid.
So when Cheng Tiangang reprimanded the two of them, they immediately nodded in fear and trepidation, not daring to show the slightest dissatisfaction, only filled with terror.
He kept repeating the same word: "Yes, yes, yes."
Cheng Tiangang was disgusted by their behavior. He hated people like them who didn't serve the people but only thought of themselves, without any principles or bottom line. He loathed them.
"Tomorrow, both of you directors will be fired. After you've settled Jiang Bai's matter, resign yourselves, then go to the relevant departments to report your problems and turn yourselves in. Remember, confess and you'll be treated leniently, resist and you'll be punished severely!"
Cheng Tiangang waved his hand impatiently and said.
This startled the two of them, and they both opened their mouths wide.
Let them handle Jiang Bai's matter?
Well... needless to say, even Young Master Li has given in, so how could they not do it?
The problem is getting them to turn themselves in?
This...this is a bit too much, isn't it?
For them, killing someone is just a matter of beheading, but this official position is more important than life itself. Why would they be asked to resign and surrender?
This is even more painful than killing them.
The two men were somewhat taken aback and raised their heads, looking at Cheng Tiangang as if they wanted to say something.
Unfortunately, Cheng Tiangang didn't give them a chance, saying calmly, "If you're not satisfied, you're free not to do it, but I, Cheng Tiangang, will settle the score with you later!"
These words turned the two men's faces ashen.
Cheng Tiangang!
If they didn't know Cheng Tiangang, they wouldn't be fit to work. He's one of the youngest ministerial-level officials to date, a genuine deputy minister of the police force, and the future number one in the police force—there's no doubt about it.
He is a direct descendant of the Cheng family in southern Xinjiang and the youngest son of Old Master Cheng.
Should we deal with both of them?
Isn't that just a matter of a word?
If they turn themselves in, they might have a chance to live, but if Cheng Laohu takes action, they'll truly die a horrible death.
"Minister Cheng, we understand... We will definitely go, we will definitely go."
Feng Lu spoke, her voice filled with panic, while Ma Xiang beside her nodded repeatedly.
Now they don't want anything else, they just want to get out of this hellhole as soon as possible.
It wasn't a big deal originally, but the two of them managed to make it like this; they wished they were dead.
After dealing with the matter here, Cheng Tiangang turned his gaze to Li Er beside him. At this point, anyone with a bit of knowledge would know who Cheng Tiangang was. Faced with Cheng Tiangang's gaze, the group of spoiled young men all lowered their heads and didn't dare to utter a sound.
The guy who was pointing his finger at Cheng Tiangang and cursing him earlier has collapsed to the ground. Let alone them, even their fathers couldn't defeat Cheng Tiger. How could they dare to show off in front of Cheng Tiger?
They were terrified.
Just as Cheng Tiangang was about to speak, the phone rang. Cheng Tiangang paused for a moment, took out the phone from his waist pocket, subconsciously opened it, glanced at it, then looked at Li Er, who was looking down, and frowned as he answered the call.
"Hey Tiangang, where are you? Come over and have a cup of tea!"
A very magnetic male voice rang out at that moment. Jiang Bai heard it clearly and immediately recognized the person's identity.
Lee Cheong-di!
Li Qingdi's voice was very special; it was always calm and composed, yet possessed a strong charm. Jiang Bai had only heard this voice and tone of voice once before, at the Spirit Spring.
It leaves a deep impression and you will never make a wrong judgment.
Besides, how many people in China would call Cheng Tiangang by that name? And a middle-aged man at that?
Who else could it be but Li Qingdi?
Chapter 455 Uncle, you're so handsome!
Jiang Bai had assumed that since Li Qingdi had personally come to attack, Cheng Tiangang would give him some face. However, to Jiang Bai's surprise, Cheng Tiangang uttered only two words upon hearing this: "I'm not going!"
After saying that, he hung up the phone cleanly and decisively, which left Jiang Bai stunned.
He couldn't help but smile wryly. This move... seemed to have been learned from Jiang Bai.
Thinking of this, Jiang Bai blushed slightly without realizing it.
Minister Cheng... has gone astray!
His reaction almost brought Li Er to tears. His eyes were brimming with tears. Others might not recognize Li Qingdi's voice, but how could Li Er not? That was his own brother!
I thought that with Li Qingdi's call, the matter would finally be resolved. Although it would be troublesome, at least I wouldn't have to face Cheng Laohu myself.
Now look what's happened. It seems that Tiger Cheng is really angry and won't even give his own brother any face.
Thinking of this, Li Er felt a deep sadness.
Just like how Cheng Tiangang would call back every time Jiang Bai hung up on him, Li Qingdi was a little stunned when Cheng Tiangang hung up on him, but he called back a minute later.
But Minister Cheng became arrogant at this moment. He glanced at the name on the phone, turned off the sound, and put the phone directly on the table.
This move made Jiang Bai even more embarrassed. This was a tactic he often used, and he didn't expect Minister Cheng to have learned it all.
Seeing Li Er staring longingly at the constantly vibrating phone, Jiang Bai felt a pang of pity. The poor child must be under a lot of pressure right now.
He must be feeling quite lost, not even answering his savior's calls.
After a while, Li Qingdi made three calls. Finally, on the fourth call, Cheng Tiangang answered and said calmly, "Chairman Li, what is it? I'm just a grandson, I can't let you keep calling like this! I can't afford it."
Jiang Bai almost burst out laughing at that sentence. Li Er next to him blushed slightly, and Li Qingdi on the other end of the phone coughed awkwardly for a while before saying in his magnetic voice, "Tian Gang, the child is ignorant. Don't take it to heart. Come over here. I'm at Cuizhu Pavilion. Let's have some tea and have a good chat. I'll apologize to you, okay?"
"Don't worry, I'll definitely give you an explanation for this. I won't let that brat Li Er get away with it!"
"If you're not satisfied, here's what you do: you take action now and cripple that bastard Li Er to calm him down. I promise I won't say a word!"
"Hmph, I dare not touch anyone from your Li family. You can handle it yourself. As for whether to fight or not, that's up to you, Young Master Li! I can't interfere. I'm just a country bumpkin from out of town; I can't possibly fight against a dragon from the capital like you."
Li Qingdi's words had some effect. Although Cheng Tiangang was a little angry, he had already spoken up, but he couldn't help but make a few sarcastic remarks to Li Qingdi.
Li Qingdi wasn't angry at all. He laughed heartily and said after a burst of laughter, "You're with Jiang Bai, right? Have him come over too. The three of us can have a good chat. I'll be waiting for you here!"
He hung up the phone after saying that, and Li Er on the other end collapsed to the ground, completely distraught.
To others, it would seem like his older brother was defending him and saying these words to Cheng Tiangang, but it was just polite talk. What could a brother do to him?
Only he himself knew that his elder brother was a man of his word.
He might be more lenient with others, but he would show no mercy to Li Er. He said he would give Cheng Tiangang an explanation, and he definitely would. Perhaps... Li Er would be spending the next few months in a hospital bed.
Thinking of this, Li Er's eyes reddened slightly. If he hadn't been holding back, tears would probably have already flowed down his cheeks.
After hanging up the phone, Cheng Tiangang ignored Li Er and the others, glanced at Jiang Bai, and said, "Li Qingdi wants the two of us to come over for tea."
"You're fine, why are you looking for me? I don't think I'm that close to him."
Jiang Bai frowned. He had certainly heard what Li Qingdi said, but he didn't seem to have any connection with Li Qingdi.
Why did Li Qingdi seek him out?
"How would I know? Are you going or not? If not, I'll tell him." Cheng Tiangang shrugged, indicating that he knew nothing.
"Yes! How could I refuse Chairman Li's invitation?"
Jiang Bai, being a bachelor himself, laughed and agreed.
He wanted to see what Li Qingdi wanted from him.
After saying this, Jiang Bai and Zhang Yang exchanged a few brief words, greeted the utterly astonished Geng Zhong, and then followed Cheng Tiangang out.
Li Er's group hurriedly made way, and Cheng Tiangang took the lead.
But at that moment, something unexpected happened. The girl who had been hit earlier, who was standing next to Li Er, suddenly darted out and grabbed Cheng Tiangang's arm.
With tears welling up in her eyes, she looked at Cheng Tiangang and said, "Uncle, Li Er is a scoundrel. He hit me. I want to go with you!"
These words made Cheng Tiangang frown. He quickly pulled his arm away from the other man's embrace, looking somewhat disgusted and annoyed, and said, "I don't even know you! Please show some respect."
"You don't recognize me, but I do. Uncle, your name is Cheng Tiangang, right? I heard you just now!"
"My name is Honghong! Uncle, I have nothing to do with Li Er. He just picked me up yesterday and said he'd show me around. He even bragged about how great his brother, dad, and grandpa were! Who knew that bastard was such a coward! You're so much better, Uncle. I like you! You were so cool just now, I love you! Li Er is like a mouse in front of a cat!"
"Uncle, you're so handsome!"
The girl clung desperately to Cheng Tiangang, shouting loudly.
Completely disregarding the gazes of others, he even tried to kiss Cheng Tiangang's face while speaking.
This startled Cheng Tiangang, who quickly shook off the other person.
He was very strong. After all, although Cheng Tiangang was not proficient in this art, he was still a master of Chinese martial arts. It would be easy for him to shake off an eighteen or nineteen-year-old girl.
"Jiang Bai! What are you laughing at? Get out of here!"
After shaking off his opponent, Cheng Tiangang took the lead and left first. After taking two steps, he shouted at Jiang Bai, who had a smile on his face.
Jiang Bai shrugged, glanced at Hong Hong who had been shaken off, gave her an encouraging look, and then followed Cheng Tiangang away.
Honghong, who had been slapped by Li Er earlier, immediately shouted from behind, "Uncle, you're so handsome! I love you, I won't give up, I want to sleep with you!"
Then, as if remembering something, he added, "I'm still a virgin! I guarantee you'll be satisfied!"
These two sentences left everyone present looking at each other in bewilderment. Li Er looked embarrassed, and those around him covered their foreheads.
Cheng Tiangang, who was walking ahead and about to leave, stumbled and almost fell over from the shock of Hong Hong's two words.
He left in a hurry, getting into his car without looking back as soon as he stepped out the door.
This caused Jiang Bai behind him to burst into laughter.
Chapter 456 Speaking to Each Other's Face
After leaving the house and getting into the car, Jiang Bai sat in the car while Cheng Tiangang arranged for the driver to drive.
Jiang Bai, grinning, said to Cheng Tiangang, whose face was dark, "Old Cheng, I think that Honghong is pretty good. She's young, good-looking, and has a great figure, haha. Most importantly, she's hot. She said she wants to sleep with you, and she's still a virgin! How about you consider it?"
"Get lost!" Cheng Tiangang said to Jiang Bai curtly.
Jiang Bai laughed heartily at this, without saying anything more.
About twenty minutes later, the car stopped in front of a courtyard house in an old town.
The plaque at the entrance bears the three large characters "Cuizhuxuan" written by a famous calligrapher.
As soon as they arrived at the entrance, two young women in cheongsams came to greet them, opened the door for them, and led them inside. The Tingtao Pavilion, small terraces and pavilions appeared before Jiang Bai.
The rustic corridors, towering artificial hills, dancing birds, and gurgling streams, along with the verdant bamboo, create a charmingly ancient and elegant atmosphere.
A moment later, the two men, led by two beautiful women in cheongsams, arrived at the main hall.
At this moment, Li Qingdi, dressed in a Zhongshan suit and with short hair, was sitting there resting with his eyes closed. Two beautiful women in palace attire were busy serving him, one pouring water and the other making tea.
As they stepped into the courtyard, Li Qingdi, who had been sitting there calmly, suddenly opened his eyes, a smile appeared on his face, he stood up, took a step forward, and extended his hand to shake hands with Cheng Tiangang.
While shaking hands, he said, "Tiangang, my son Li Er is a good-for-nothing playboy who causes trouble everywhere. I often try to discipline him, but he just won't listen. I've given up on this kid and let him mess around outside."
"But I never expected that this blind fool would bring trouble upon you. Don't worry, I, Li Qingdi, keep my word. I will definitely give you a satisfactory explanation for this matter!"
Since Li Qingdi has already said that, what else can Cheng Tiangang say?
Although still somewhat unhappy, he reluctantly said, "I don't necessarily want to argue with a mere kid, it's just that this kid went too far!"
"So young and already so badly behaved! It's one thing to scold me, but to actually dare to interfere with government decisions? That's just too much!"
"Hehe, don't worry, I'll teach him a lesson, I promise!"
Li Qingdi laughed heartily, knowing that the matter was now considered closed.
Cheng Tiangang is a man who either refuses or agrees; he won't resort to any underhanded tactics.
Just as Cheng Tiangang knew that if Li Qingdi said he would give him an explanation, then he would definitely give him a satisfactory explanation.
At their level, no matter how much they disagree, they always keep their word!
Otherwise, he'll be the one who loses face!
If Li Qingdi goes back on his word and doesn't punish Li Er at all, Cheng Tiangang won't care. As long as he's not afraid of this matter getting out, and Yang Wudi, Wu Tianxi, and Zhao Wuji point fingers at him and criticize him behind his back, then so be it!
After greeting Cheng Tiangang, Li Qingdi walked up to Jiang Bai with a smile and shook hands with him: "Jiang Bai, it's been more than half a year since we last met, hasn't it? Time flies! You've become even more amazing."
"Tsk tsk, you killed Yin Tianchou and beat up the Nangong family... Haha, what skill! People say that heroes emerge from among the young, and I think that's absolutely true. You're much stronger than us old guys. In the future, this world will definitely be yours!"
Jiang Bai's lips twitched slightly at this, and he raised an eyebrow, saying dryly, "Chairman Li, please don't play these games with me. Our relationship isn't exactly good. What brings you here? Just say it directly. The way you're talking makes me uneasy!"
"Hahaha."
Li Qingdi didn't answer, his expression slightly embarrassed, while Cheng Tiangang over there had already started laughing without any restraint.
In the past, he was the only one who had suffered setbacks in front of Jiang Bai, which made him feel terrible. Now, seeing Jiang Bai's attitude towards Li Qingdi, Cheng Tiangang was in a great mood, and he put his previous displeasure behind him.
"Hehe, let's talk inside, let's talk inside." Li Qingdi laughed awkwardly, then led the two into the house.
As soon as they entered the room, two beautiful women in palace attire hurriedly made tea for the two of them.
Jiang Bai took a sip; it was sweet and lingering, with an unforgettable aftertaste—definitely a good thing.
Lee Cheong-di is such a corrupt guy.
After sitting down, Li Qingdi didn't speak, Cheng Tiangang didn't speak either, and Jiang Bai naturally kept his mouth shut as well.
Li Qingdi was also the leader of the God Group, so he didn't want to provoke the other party too much. If he angered them, he would be in deep trouble.
"Tian Gang, Yang Wudi is coming back. All the trouble we two caused him won't work." After a while, Li Qingdi suddenly spoke up.
"It's normal that it doesn't work. Northwest Wolf, do you think that's just a name? The two of us are just trying to stall him, we don't expect it to have any big effect. Do you really expect your bunch of useless guys to be able to hold back that guy who claims to be 'invincible'?"
Sipping his tea, Cheng Tiangang spoke calmly, as if everything had been expected.
Jiang Bai knew what they were talking about; it was about Yang Wudi being transferred back to the capital.
Although Yang Wudi has been the leader of the Human Group since last year, his official position has not changed and he is still in the Northwest Military Region. The two of them do not want Yang Wudi to return too soon.
So they're delaying Yang Wudi.
Jiang Bai was aware that some underhanded tactics had been used.
But don't these two know that they are also part of the human group?
Is it really okay to say this in front of yourself?
"I know what you're saying, but I'm still a little reluctant to let him come back so easily. You know, my relationship with him... well, it's not exactly good!"
Li Qingdi did not hide his worries about the matter, as his relationship with Yang Wudi was not good to begin with.
Twenty years ago, he, Yang Wudi, and Zhao Wuji, his three best friends, became enemies, and there was only fighting between them, not a shred of friendship.
"That's simple. If you don't want him to come back, then create some more trouble. This is no problem for you, is it? Just tell me how you need my cooperation!" Cheng Tiangang took a sip of tea and said noncommittally.
He had a good relationship with Yang Wudi. In Zhuge Yun's words, Cheng Tiangang treated Yang Wudi like an older brother, but... that didn't stop him from causing Yang Wudi some trouble.
"If you put it that way, then I'm relieved. Hehe, actually I have some ideas, I'll tell you later, I guarantee he won't be back for a while." Li Qingdi chuckled and said.
"Hey guys, I think I'm part of the Human Group too. Is it really okay for you to be discussing how to screw over our boss right in front of me?" Jiang Bai finally couldn't help but speak up, looking at the two people in front of him with a speechless expression.
If you two want to trick Yang Wudi, then go and discuss it. You can't see each other all the time, so call him!
What do you mean by saying this to my face?
Chapter 457 Insidious Dog
The two couldn't help but smile at this, exchanged a glance, and Li Qingdi laughed, "You wouldn't!"
"That's right. If you know how, go ahead and tell Yang Wudi. Anyway, he knows it was the two of us who pulled this trick. It's an open attack, so we're not afraid of him finding out. Besides, do you, Jiang Bai, even know Yang Wudi?"
"If you actually tell him, I'll rip my head off and let you kick it around like a ball!"
Cheng Tiangang was more talkative. He was very familiar with Jiang Bai, who was one of his few friends, so he spoke without any reservations.
They seemed quite casual, which made Li Qingdi, who was sitting there, light up. He looked at the two of them with a complicated expression and remained silent.
"I'll tell him!" Jiang Bai said defiantly!
In fact, just as Cheng Tiangang said, it didn't matter if he knew about it; he wouldn't tell Yang Wudi to anyone.
Although Jiang Bai is a member of the Human Group, he is not on the same side as Yang Wudi.
In fact, he was on the same side as Cheng Tiangang. Given their relationship and the lack of any conflict of interest, he had no reason to side with Yang Wudi, whom he was not familiar with and who even harbored some hostility towards.
Li Qingdi and Yang Wudi are enemies, but Cheng Tiangang is not. Li Qingdi joined forces with Cheng Tiangang to deal with Yang Wudi, so what does Jiang Bai have to say?
Is he crazy? Why did he go over there and gossip with Yang Wudi?
If it's about dealing with Zhao Wuji, then it's more likely he'd go and talk to him.
"Hahaha."
Jiang Bai's words provoked the two men to burst into wild laughter, which angered Jiang Bai so much that he almost smashed his cup. He snorted coldly and ignored the two bastards.
After laughing, Li Qingdi turned his gaze to Jiang Bai and said seriously, "Jiang Bai, how about you do me a favor?"
"I won't help!"
Jiang Bai's clean and decisive refusal brought a smile to Cheng Tiangang's face, his eyes revealing an expression that said, "I knew it all along."
Li Qingdi coughed awkwardly for a long time, choked by Jiang Bai's words, and didn't know what to say for a while.
He knew that given his relationship with Jiang Bai, if he rashly approached Jiang Bai, the latter would definitely not agree and would surely refuse.
He had even prepared his lines after Jiang Bai refused, but Jiang Bai's refusal was so decisive, without the slightest hint of tact, that Li Qingdi was at a loss for words.
However, being a powerful figure who could turn the tide at will, Li Qingdi was no ordinary person. He quickly recovered, cleared his throat, and then said to Jiang Bai, "Jiang Bai, don't refuse so quickly. Helping me out won't do you any harm."
"Chairman Li, I don't know if you've heard it before, but the enemy of my enemy is my friend, and an enemy is an enemy! I don't think we have a very good relationship. According to common sense, I'm on Zhao Wuji's side, and everyone knows that. I also know about your relationship with Zhao Wuji, and I know exactly how you treat me."
"Although we haven't completely fallen out, we're definitely enemies, isn't that right?"
"Help you? If I help you, wouldn't that be aiding the enemy? Do you think I'm stupid or what?"
This was Jiang Bai's idea. He and Li Qingdi were enemies, and helping Li Qingdi would be aiding the enemy, something Jiang Bai would never do.
Even if it brings some immediate, petty gains.
"Well… Jiang Bai… I think you might have some misunderstandings. I don't get along with Zhao Wuji, but we don't have any conflict of interest! Look, Tian Gang and Zhao Wuji don't get along either, but you can be friends with him, so we can be friends too."
Li Qingdi's lips twitched slightly. He took a deep breath and spoke earnestly.
"You are not like Cheng Tiangang!" Jiang Bai replied seriously.
"How is it different?" Li Qingdi asked curiously.
"He's an openly cunning bastard, and you're a treacherous dog who shoots in the shadows. How can you be the same? Besides, we have a good relationship now, we're friends, and he won't betray me. But you're different!"
Jiang Bai's words turned both of their faces a deep purplish-red.
Cheng Tiangang immediately glared at Jiang Bai, but he wasn't too angry. Otherwise, given his temper, he would have already snapped. His current demeanor was half anger and half pretense.
He was more concerned about what Jiang Bai said about Li Qingdi than what Jiang Bai said about himself.
To be honest... he agreed, but only the second half of the sentence: Li Qingdi was indeed a treacherous dog who liked to play tricks behind people's backs!
As for Li Qingdi, his face alternated between light and pale, and he didn't know what to say for a long time. He opened his mouth, but the words that were about to come out were swallowed back down.
My forehead is covered in black lines!
Being called a treacherous dog by someone pointing fingers at him, Lee Cheong-di has had enough.
If it weren't Jiang Bai, Li Qingdi would have attacked him. No matter how well-mannered someone is, they wouldn't be able to stand this.
Taking a deep breath and finally calming himself down, Li Qingdi said dryly, "Jiang Bai, even if we can't be friends and will become enemies in the future, the thing I asked you to do will not do you any harm, only benefit!"
"You're a smart person, you must know how to weigh the pros and cons! Let me tell you, if you're not willing, then I won't bring it up again, if you are, how about we talk about it again?"
Jiang Bai looked Li Qingdi up and down suspiciously for a while, then said with some doubt, "Then tell me, and we'll talk about it later!"
After saying this, he glanced at Cheng Tiangang and said without any hesitation, "Old Cheng, you're the older brother, so keep an eye on me. I'm still young, and if this treacherous dog tries something underhanded, I won't be able to defend myself. If I fall for it, you, as my older brother, won't say a word and won't help!"
Li Qingdi's face was so black it was almost dripping ink. He glared angrily at Jiang Bai, then looked at Cheng Tiangang, who had a smug smile on his face.
After taking a few deep breaths and forcibly suppressing the urge to pin Jiang Bai to the ground and beat him up, he finally spoke, "It's like this, I want you to help me make a trip to South Korea."
"Recently, a superhuman committed a crime and has fled the country. This person is extremely vicious and has dozens of lives on his hands in the country. We want to capture him, but he escaped. I want you to go and help me bring him back! He knows some very important information, so I need him alive!"
"As long as you can help me bring him back, I will fully support you on the Nangong family's side. I guarantee that if they dare to cause you trouble, our entire Divine Group will stand behind you and take them all down! How about it?"
"Not good enough! I won't agree!"
Jiang Bai rejected the suggestion without even thinking about it.
Cheng Tiangang was stunned for a moment, then glanced at Jiang Bai. He didn't expect Jiang Bai to refuse so decisively.
In his opinion, the proposal should be acceptable. Although the details need to be clarified, Jiang Bai helping Li Qingdi go out and capture someone, and Li Qingdi helping him deal with the Nangong family, is a worthwhile deal.
Of course, we need to find out about this person's strength, the level of danger, and the situation on the other side. Once we find out, if Jiang Bai is capable of doing so, making this exchange should be a good choice.
Chapter 458 What a treacherous dog!
"Why!"
Li Qingdi was puzzled as to why Jiang Bai had rejected him.
Jiang Bai helped him go abroad to arrest people, and he helped Jiang Bai deal with the Nangong family. No matter how you look at it, it's a worthwhile deal.
Jiang Bai actually refused to agree?
This doesn't make sense!
"Because you're a treacherous dog!"
Jiang Bai casually uttered this sentence again.
"Jiang Bai!"
This sentence made Li Qingdi lose his temper. Veins bulged on his forehead. He was usually good-tempered and considered himself to be of superior character, but he couldn't stand Jiang Bai's endless chatter.
He was furious. How could he have been such a treacherous dog! How did things turn out like this!
"Did I say something wrong? I just don't believe you wouldn't know what happened in the Human Group. This afternoon, I already won the promotion over there. With your intelligence capabilities, I don't believe no one in the Human Group leaked any information to you?"
"Yang Wudi has already agreed to help me deal with the Nangong family. If they dare to come, this self-proclaimed invincible elder brother will personally take action. Once he does, what can the Nangong family do?"
"I don't believe you wouldn't know these things!"
"Since you know that, are you just doing me a favor? Saying that the Divine Group will help me deal with the Nangong family with all its might? It's just an empty promise!"
"You want me to go over there for you? If I go over there, what will happen to me here? The Nangong family could make a move against me at any time. If I leave, my business in Tiandu will be completely ruined!"
Are you trying to scam me, or are you trying to scam me?
Jiang Bai rolled his eyes and said, quite dissatisfied with Li Qingdi's behavior.
As he himself said, Li Qingdi couldn't possibly be unaware of the situation of the Human Group. He was busy dealing with Yang Wudi. If you said that he didn't have many people around Yang Wudi, Jiang Bai wouldn't believe it even if you beat him to death.
Since someone was by Yang Wudi's side, how could Li Qingdi be completely unaware of such a thing?
If you know the answer but still say it, aren't you just digging your own grave?
"Well... I really didn't know. I have someone by Yang Wudi's side, but how could I possibly know about what happened this afternoon so quickly?" Li Qingdi smiled awkwardly and explained.
However, Jiang Bai did not listen to the explanation and just rolled his eyes at Li Qingdi. Anyone with eyes could see that he did not believe Li Qingdi's words. Even Cheng Tiangang next to him showed a suspicious look.
"Furthermore, you only told me to help you arrest someone, but you want me to go abroad to do it? My matter isn't settled yet. If something really happens here, I won't be able to help from a distance."
"That's not the point. The point is you sent me to arrest someone, and all you told me was that he was a vicious criminal? You didn't even say what his strength was. I reckon even your God Group would have a headache with him. He must be at least an S-rank!"
"You want me to go with someone like that? I'm not confident I can win. Aren't you setting me up? Speaking of which, Li Qingdi, you're not planning to use someone else to do your dirty work, are you?"
At this point, Jiang Bai glanced at Li Qingdi suspiciously.
If he didn't think that way, he wouldn't care. But once he did, Jiang Bai felt more and more that it was possible. It wasn't that Li Qingdi couldn't possibly use someone else to do his dirty work; in fact, there was a very high probability that he would.
Even Cheng Tiangang, who was standing next to him, cast a questioning glance at Li Qingdi. He was also following Jiang Bai's train of thought. If that's the case, it's not impossible that Li Qingdi might stab Jiang Bai in the back.
The best outcome is mutual destruction; the worst outcome is mutual destruction, or Jiang Bai being killed.
Anyway, it seems like Li Qingdi is the one who benefits, right?
On the other hand, Jiang Bai gained absolutely nothing!
"So it's not impossible!" Cheng Tiangang added.
Li Qingdi's face turned red; in truth, he did have this intention.
He just said he didn't know about Jiang Bai's affairs in the Human Group, which is true. Although he has people around the Human Group and Yang Wudi, they are extremely careful when contacting him.
Unless something extremely serious happens, it's impossible for them to contact you quickly or deliver a message; at the very least, they'll have to wait until midnight or tomorrow.
But when Jiang Bai brought up this issue later, it hit the nail on the head; he did indeed have such thoughts.
In his mind, it would be good if Jiang Bai could complete the mission and return, but it would be perfect if they could both be severely injured and die together.
If Jiang Bai dies, it won't be a big loss for him; the God Group can just make arrangements.
Having his secret exposed, Li Qingdi smiled awkwardly and explained, "Jiang Bai, it's true that the other party is an S-level ability user, and it's also true that their ability is powerful, but I sent you because I have confidence in you! It wasn't to specifically trap you!"
"You're kidding me! Your God Group is full of experts. As far as I know, there are thousands of people in the God Group, and more than a thousand of them have superpowers. Why don't your God Group's Four Heavenly Kings go? They are all S-level superpowered individuals and have been through many battles. If one is not enough, send two. If two are not enough, send three. Do you think that guy can escape from their hands?"
"Why should I go? This doesn't make sense!"
"Li Qingdi, you still dare to say you weren't trying to frame me? Is it wrong to call you a treacherous dog?"
Jiang Bai calmly and methodically expressed all his thoughts, then looked at Li Qingdi in front of him with deep agreement, feeling that what he said was absolutely right.
"Thinking about it that way, Jiang Bai isn't wrong!" Cheng Tiangang nodded, indicating his support for Jiang Bai!
He and Jiang Bai already had a good relationship, so it was only right for him to support Jiang Bai. With Jiang Bai's guidance, Cheng Tiangang immediately felt that Jiang Bai was right.
Lee Cheong-di is indeed a treacherous dog!
With so many deadly traps, Jiang Bai's help would not only bring him no benefit, but could also cost him his life, or at the very least, leave him with nothing. If Li Qingdi isn't cunning, then who is?
"Then we can renegotiate the terms!" Li Qingdi said helplessly, taking a deep breath.
Before Jiang Bai could refuse, he added, "It's not that I'm trying to trick you. It's true that our God Group is full of experts, but we've encountered a lot of problems recently. All four Heavenly Kings are in trouble, and the old group leader is injured and is currently recuperating."
"Although we have a large number of people, the ones we can pull out are all unreliable. They can deal with ordinary superhumans, but they are no match for the real experts."
"I had no other choice but to think of you. Although you are a member of the Human Group, you are relatively independent and strong enough. Although that person is powerful, you might not be able to succeed if you go. That's why I came to you."
"Jiang Bai, Li Yaoji is a vicious and ruthless person. After he awakened his superpowers in China, he kept them hidden until a year ago when he felt that he had achieved enough strength, and then he began to commit crimes."
"He organized gangs, engaged in forced buying and selling, robbery and murder, colluded with corrupt officials, and committed all sorts of evil deeds, turning the western region into chaos. More importantly, he also stole some state secrets and colluded with some foreign individuals, attempting to subvert the border region. We absolutely cannot tolerate the existence of such a person."
Chapter 459 That Matter!
"He has committed numerous bloody crimes over the past year, with at least dozens of people dying directly at his hands, and many more dying indirectly because of him."
"When we took action against him, he noticed us and fought his way out. Our God Group suffered heavy casualties, including one of the Four Heavenly Kings. However, he still managed to escape with the help of some foreigners."
"We absolutely cannot tolerate someone like this roaming freely outside and selling state secrets, so I want your help to bring him back, or even kill him if necessary!"
"Jiang Bai, I believe you are a person with a strong sense of justice. You would not allow such a person to run rampant and go unpunished, would you?"
Li Qingdi spoke slowly, and after he finished speaking, he stared intently at Jiang Bai in front of him, as if waiting for his answer.
Whether his words persuaded Jiang Bai was unclear, but they certainly persuaded Cheng Tiangang.
Didn't you see that this guy, bursting with a sense of justice, now has a fierce look on his face and his veins are bulging?
Although Cheng Tiangang had a bad temper, he was a man of principle and a strong sense of justice.
Otherwise, the higher-ups wouldn't have promoted him so many times, allowing him to reach his current position.
Of course, his background also plays a big role, but while there are many people with backgrounds, few can reach this level.
This is largely due to Cheng Tiangang's character and conduct.
As expected, as soon as Li Qingdi finished speaking, Cheng Tiangang spoke up: "Jiang Bai, we can't let someone like this get away with it! I know what Li Qingdi just said, and I also know about that person's situation. It's just that the Divine Group took over the case later."
"I thought they had almost finished dealing with it, but I never expected it to turn out like this!"
"You little brat, if you're so capable, then do your part for the country and bring him back!"
Jiang Bai rolled his eyes at this. He knew that Cheng Tiangang hated evil and his IQ would drop first when faced with such a situation.
Jiang Bai glanced at Cheng Tiangang, then at Li Qingdi, and said somewhat unhappily, "Li Qingdi, are you trying to morally blackmail me? There are plenty of capable people out there, why should I take the risk? The opponent is an S-level ability user, and even one of your Four Heavenly Kings got injured after going out to fight him. Am I supposed to fight him all by myself?"
"Why should I, Jiang Bai, risk my life because of Li Qingdi's word? What if I die?"
"Don't tell me to relax and that you'll take care of my family!"
"Why don't you go, Li Qingdi? I'll take care of your family for you."
"Your God Group has countless experts, don't tell me it's just the few on the surface! If that were the case, your God Group would have been beaten down long ago!"
"As far as I know, the strength you've shown on the surface is less than one-tenth of your total strength. Otherwise, with so few of you, let alone carrying out a mission or helping me, the Nangong family alone could easily handle you!"
"What right do you have to claim that you're on par with the elite group?"
"If you're going to keep lying like this, then there's nothing more we can talk about!"
At this point, Jiang Bai stood up angrily, making a move to storm off.
"Don't rush, don't rush, let me explain to you properly!" Li Qingdi quickly grabbed Jiang Bai at this moment, a fawning smile on his face.
He then explained, "Actually, I can answer what you're saying. Yes, the God Group is not as simple as it seems on the surface. Like the Human Group, we also have our trump cards. Otherwise, how could we have remained dominant for so many years and been on par with the Human Group?"
"Let alone an S-class ability user, even an SSS-class one is not impossible for us to deal with. At most, we would suffer some injuries, but we could still kill him! The key is... all the people we're hiding are in trouble."
"You're kidding me!" Jiang Bai sneered.
"It really is something, a big thing, but I can't say it due to discipline. Tiangang knows about it!"
Li Qingdi listened to these words seriously and said it didn't seem like he was joking with Jiang Bai.
This surprised Jiang Bai, who subconsciously glanced at Cheng Tiangang beside him. Cheng Tiangang was also taken aback and casually said, "I know? How would I know?"
Just as Jiang Bai was about to get angry at the bastard who had lied to him to his face, Cheng Tiangang's expression suddenly changed. He looked at Li Qingdi with unusual seriousness and said nervously, "You mean that matter? Your Divine Group got involved too?"
"Yes, besides that matter, what else could we expect the Divine Group to use all its trump cards to participate in? Not only us, but Yang Wudi will also be going in person in a while. Their trump cards are all ready now, as are the Human Group's Executive Committee, its subordinate sects and families!" Li Qingdi said solemnly.
Upon hearing this, Cheng Tiangang's expression changed several times. He glanced at Jiang Bai and said with a complicated expression, "Jiang Bai, if it is that matter, it can indeed restrain all the power of the Divine Group. You have to understand. I believe he is not lying. Li Qingdi would not joke about that matter!"
"What's going on?" Jiang Bai looked bewildered, not understanding what these two guys were up to, speaking so mysteriously.
Jiang Bai couldn't understand what could possibly be so important as to control the entire God Group and even the Human Group.
Both of these behemoths were affected and had to use all their resources.
And it was something that Cheng Tiangang deeply feared.
It's rare to see Cheng Tiangang so serious. He only did it once before when talking about the Divine Group, but now that I think about it, I was just fooling myself.
The Divine Group is indeed powerful, but it is far from enough to frighten Cheng Tiangang. This can be seen from his attitude towards Li Qingdi, the leader of the Divine Group.
However, Jiang Bai saw deep worry in Cheng Tiangang's eyes regarding this matter.
"This... I can't say! You can't know yet. Only if you advance to the ranks of top-tier experts, or become a core member of a certain aristocratic family or sect, or become the deputy leader of our Divine Group, will you be qualified to know." Li Qingdi glanced at Jiang Bai and said seriously.
After saying that, he added, "I don't mean anything by it, but this matter is of great importance, and we can't talk about it carelessly! I can only tell you that this is a major event spearheaded by the Heavenly Group!"
These words made Jiang Bai feel a chill, and he stopped asking. The five groups of people, namely Heaven, Earth, Man, God, and Ghost, had the Man and God groups often away on various missions.
Jiang Bai roughly knew that the Ghost Group was involved in all sorts of demonic and supernatural activities, and he knew that they were probably related to Longhu Mountain, Zhengyi Dao, Maoshan Sect, and corpse drivers, etc. This was information he heard later.
The specifics are unclear, but in general, these guys deal with legendary demons and monsters, which is quite eerie and terrifying.