While Fang Yan often resorted to forceful measures, he also possessed a modicum of pragmatism. He recognized that when hearts wavered, offering a touch of kindness and benefit could swiftly instill confidence.
As Fang Yan broached the topic of dividing the Xiaodao Gang's territory, Hong Jiu and Long Baiyun's eyes gleamed. Their aspirations converged – both had coveted the Knives Gang's holdings for a substantial period.
Among Ningcheng's three major societies, the Xiaodao Gang stood as a burgeoning power. It carved a path among second-tier clubs, securing ample territorial gains and threatening their clubs' resources. Swiftly ascending the ranks, it nestled within the triad of major societies.
But for a summit meeting involving the three, Ningcheng might already be under the Gang's heel. The sword-wielding boss, astute and shrewd, directed the Xiaodao Gang's ascent. Despite its present lowly status, prospects were bright.
This hinted at a future where the Xiaodao Gang surpassed them. The boss, Long Baiyun and Hong Jiu discerned, would hold them underfoot, leaving little room for resistance.
Alas, the two factions had yet to establish collaboration due to their longstanding suspicions. The prospect altered when Fang Yan announced his intentions.
Intent on appropriating the Xiaodao Gang's territory, Fang Yan was poised for action. Having witnessed the power of micro-robots and the destructive firearm, Hong Jiu and Long Baiyun could confidently infer that the Xiaodao Gang's fate was sealed.
"Sir, I wholeheartedly endorse your decision."
Hong Jiu began cautiously, "However, please exercise caution when dealing with the remaining Xiaodao Gang members. Many remain formidable and fierce."
He was aware that without the sword-wielding boss, the faction would descend into chaos, power struggles fragmenting its unity. Yet, confronting these remnants might prove challenging – they were fierce, resilient, akin to relentless wolves.
"You needn't worry about those who can't even rise to the challenge. I'll manage this on my own."
Fang Yan retorted confidently.
Besides the micro-robots and the destruction gun, he remained Ant-Man. A superpower endowed him with prowess to surmount this hurdle with ease.
"While I deal with the Xiaodao Gang's core, the rest of its members are your responsibility. Will that suffice?"
Fang Yan scrutinized them both.
"It's absolutely sufficient!"
Their delight was palpable.
Claiming the Knives Gang's territory without breaking a sweat was beyond exhilarating.
"From now on, the Xiaodao Gang, Baiyun Pavilion, and Red Clothes Hall shall converge as Fang Shenhui!"
Fang Yan's newly christened force resonated in the room.
"Fang Shenhui's first order of business: obliteration."
"Eliminate drug and arms trade – this decree is non-negotiable."
Long Baiyun's countenance shifted at the mention of this directive. The drug and arms trades were the crux of Baiyun Pavilion's financial success.
For years, these illicit trades formed the foundation of Baiyun Pavilion's prosperity.
"Sir, while poison and arms have their drawbacks..."
Long Baiyun embarked on an explanation, struggling with reluctance to relinquish this lucrative income stream.
However, Fang Yan curtly dismissed his explanation, silencing him.
"Boss Long, are you considering defying me?"
Fang Yan's icy gaze fixated on him, akin to a sharpened blade.
"No, I... I wouldn't dare!"
Long Baiyun trembled, waving his hands frantically.
Though Long Baiyun yearned to expound on the trade's nuances, Fang Yan's interruption left him no opportunity.
"My interest in Huang He's enterprise is negligible. Nevertheless, drugs and arms are detrimental. Clearing Ningcheng mandates their eradication."
Fang Yan unveiled his proposition – knowledge of advanced technology amassed in his mind. Even without materializing the inventions, the information alone could buy the entire Earth.
Long Baiyun and Hong Jiu remained oblivious to this resource.
Nonetheless, suspicions brewed in their minds. Was Fang Yan intent on extracting exorbitant fees from them?
"You are wise to support my decision."
Fang Yan addressed Long Baiyun's faltering spirit.
"However, remember this – in Fang Shenhui, there's no room for narcotics or arms. Should I need wealth, I possess alternatives."
Hong Jiu and Long Baiyun, while retaining these reservations, knew well to withhold their doubts.
Amid Fang Yan's admonitions, their thoughts echoed disquietly. How could they reconcile this callous affront to their earnings?
Fang Yan's decrees disheartened them. Debilitating Baiyun Pavilion's drug and arms trade jeopardized their premier status.
"Very well, today's discussions adjourn here."
"Within three days, assess the Xiaodao Gang's territory."
"Upon its acquisition, you needn't report to me further. Proceed to oust their hierarchy, systematically dismantling the network of Ningcheng's clubs. While you're at it, you can retain the turf."
"In a week's time, I'll inspect personally. Failing compliance yields predictable consequences, correct?"
Hong Jiu and Long Baiyun meekly nodded, aghast.
Fang Yan's coercion and inducement culminated in reluctant affirmation. Obeying Fang Yan's commands became their sole recourse.