"Thank you, sir!"
Long Baiyun's delight was palpable. He commanded, "Someone, take this disruptive individual off the stage. Let's not disturb Mr. Zuo and Mr. Fang's proceedings."
And so, amidst pitiful wails, Huang Weize was dragged away in full view of the spectators, a spectacle that showcased his utter humiliation.
As he fell into the clutches of his former adversary, the grim future awaiting Huang Weize became apparent. His next encounter promised to be a miserable one.
Powerlessness dominated the scene as bystanders watched, unable to lend a helping hand.
The stark reality was unforgiving. In the face of absolute authority, resistance proved futile. Placed at the mercy of another, one's very existence could be snuffed out with ease.
In essence, even control over one's own death was stripped away.
The wealthy individuals present were acutely aware that Huang Weize's downfall marked the beginning of a significant shift in Qicheng. With his demise, the underworld would undergo a transformation, reshuffling its power dynamics and marking a new era.
...
With the brief auction concluded and the symbolic gesture accepted, the attendees dispersed to the top floor to partake in the evening's celebration banquet.
Fang Yan was escorted away from the stage by Zuo Yong, who eagerly inquired about the universal repairer and the all-purpose repair liquid. Zuo Yong's intelligence was sharp; he understood the value of unique talents and sought to learn more about Fang Yan's extraordinary capabilities.
"Old man, that's enough!"
"I have other matters to attend to. I shall take my leave. Enjoy yourselves!"
With Zuo Yong's warm gesture of dismissal, Fang Yan departed.
Fang Yan drove away, leaving the vicinity of Longteng Building behind as he set a course for his destination. He closed the floating window and reclined in his seat, reflecting with a sigh.
He had enabled the autopilot feature for his car through Jarvis, allowing him to appear as though he were driving while in reality, he was free to relax.
The conversation between Zuo Yong and the man in black played over Fang Yan's audio systems, a direct result of the micro-robot monitoring devices he had strategically placed.
Zuo Yong's inquiry into Fang Yan's background was hardly surprising. After all, Fang Yan's meteoric rise in the Southern provinces and cities had caused quite a stir.
Nevertheless, Fang Yan was undeterred by this investigation. Armed with advanced technology, he possessed the means to neutralize Zuo Yong's efforts if necessary.
"Respect and awe... Indeed, the words of a formidable figure who has risen to prominence in the Southern provinces and cities. He possesses a keen sense of discernment," Fang Yan mused, acknowledging Zuo Yong's astuteness.
He further considered, "Perhaps it's better if you don't meddle with my affairs."
"Next, I need to allocate these funds wisely. The Ark reactor requires development, and I must also identify another lucrative project."
A wry smile crossed Fang Yan's lips as he contemplated his financial strategy.
Anticipating that Zuo Yong would attempt to probe into his background, Fang Yan had strategically initiated the conversation. The result was a calculated move, shaping Zuo Yong's perspective and influencing his response.
His attention had shifted towards a more profitable venture. Developing the Ark reactor and identifying additional avenues for wealth were paramount on Fang Yan's agenda.
"Perhaps trade in valuable metals?"
"Or perhaps not."
Fang Yan deliberated as he drove, discarding ideas one by one.
"Diversifying my investments is crucial. I need to find a venture that can yield substantial profits while advancing technology."
Suddenly, a spark of inspiration ignited within him.
"The steel battle suits!"
Fang Yan's lips curled into a determined smile. This technological venture possessed the potential to generate substantial wealth while simultaneously advancing scientific innovation.