Chapter 209: Loyalty and Righteousness, Wong Bing-Yiu
West Kowloon Police Headquarters was brightly lit.
Inside the Chief's office, Wong Bing-Yiu looked at everyone:
"How is Johnny Wang's case progressing?"
Chan Yan-kin said, "We have been monitoring Johnny Wang the entire time."
After glancing at everyone, Chan Yan-kin hesitated slightly.
Lam Ho-Tin immediately said, "Chief, should I step out?"
Wong Bing-Yiu glared at him, "I called you all here because you are the people I trust most. Why would you step out?"
Besides Wong Bing-Yiu, the office now included Chan Yan-kin, Yuen Ho-Wan, Lam Ho-Tin, and Kang Daohang.
"Johnny Wang's case has been ongoing for a long time. The Headquarters' officers are very annoyed by it and want us to close the case as soon as possible."
Chan Yan-kin frowned, "Chief, what kind of order is this?"
Generally, cases handled by the Organized Crime and Triad Bureau have varying timeframes. For example, The Ni Family case, from opening the file to closing it, took almost twenty years.
The Police Force is actually very patient when handling cases.
As long as things can be kept under control, they are not afraid of a long delay.
However, the Headquarters' officer's order was very strange, simply to close the case.
Wong Bing-Yiu sighed, "Police Commissioner called me and said there is immense pressure from the Security Bureau. If we can solve Johnny Wang's case within a short period, we can take a gamble."
"Otherwise, we can only close the case."
The expressions of Chan Yan-kin, Yuen Ho-Wan, and Kang Daohang were particularly subtle.
Lam Ho-Tin's expression became increasingly uneasy.
Wong Bing-Yiu said coldly, "Because of Johnny Wang's disruption, Hong Kong society has suddenly seen so many firearms. Since the beginning of this year, gun-related cases alone have directly doubled."
"This is a slap in our face."
"This also brings us immense pressure."
"The Hong Kong Government is linking the source of the firearms to the Mainland..."
Yuen Ho-Wan scoffed, "That's nonsense. Where in the Mainland do they have fully automatic rifles?"
"They use standard 'Big Black Star' pistols."
"They don't even have fully automatic AKs..."
"The guys who dare to confront us on the streets of Hong Kong use 'little melon' grenades."
"They're not the long-handled grenades from the Mainland at all..."
Wong Bing-Yiu nodded slightly, "I have already inquired through secret channels with the Mainland. Johnny Wang's weapons do not come from the Mainland; they come from someone else."
Yuen Ho-Wan rolled his eyes.
Isn't that obvious?
As far as he knew, the Mainland produced over a billion long-handled grenades in a certain era... That's right, you didn't misread it, it really was that many.
Now, they can't even upgrade their grenades; they can only slowly deplete their stock.
And according to the intelligence he received from Kang Daohang, Johnny Wang's supplier was already very clear.
Yuen Ho-Wan was about to speak when he suddenly remembered that Lam Ho-Tin was also present at today's meeting, and the words he was about to say immediately retracted.
Wong Bing-Yiu continued, "We don't know how much pressure Police Commissioner is under, but we absolutely cannot let the higher-ups' plan succeed."
"Johnny Wang absolutely cannot be allowed to get away with it."
"Therefore, I called you all here to discuss how to deal with Johnny Wang."
Yuen Ho-Wan was greatly surprised, "Chief, this Johnny Wang matter has always been handled by me. We don't need Brother Tian's team, do we?"
Lam Ho-Tin immediately said, "Chief, we are following the Chaozhou Guy's case, and there are still some loose ends to tie up."
Lam Ho-Tin was a shrewd man.
The moment Wong Bing-Yiu spoke, he knew something was wrong.
This was clearly setting him up as a target for Yuen Ho-Wan to shoot at.
Johnny Wang's case had always been handled by Yuen Ho-Wan. If he suddenly got involved, what would Yuen Ho-Wan think?
Would he think he had overstepped?
Isn't this a joke?
How could he work with Yuen Ho-Wan in the future?
Lam Ho-Tin knew his career ceiling was a Senior Inspector, but Yuen Ho-Wan was young and had support. He could even replace Chan Yan-kin or even Wong Bing-Yiu.
This guy was not only a Hot-shot Detective but also the Police Force's rising star.
Making an enemy of Yuen Ho-Wan for no reason, how unfair!
Wong Bing-Yiu snorted coldly, "Extraordinary times call for extraordinary measures."
"Put away your petty thoughts."
Yuen Ho-Wan and Lam Ho-Tin both assented.
Wong Bing-Yiu's tone softened, "The pressure from Police Commissioner is too great."
"According to our original plan, we wanted to slowly uncover Johnny Wang's modus operandi, gradually understand his supplier, and then round them all up."
"Unfortunately... time waits for no one."
"Johnny Wang is a lawless arms dealer. They are not afraid to engage in gunfights with the Police Force. Although A Yun's team is brave and capable, if they were to confront Johnny Wang head-on..."
"I'm afraid it would be difficult to achieve an overwhelming victory."
Yuen Ho-Wan's mouth dropped open, and he ultimately couldn't speak.
Indeed, trying to overwhelm a fully armed arms syndicate head-on with just their team was impossible.
They couldn't do it.
In fact, let alone them, even with Wong Bing-Yiu, it couldn't be done.
"I know, A Tian, you need to tie up the loose ends of the Chaozhou Guy case, but for now, that will have to wait. Yuen Ho-Wan needs support."
"However, once the operation begins, command of Lam Ho-Tin's team will be in Yuen Ho-Wan's hands."
Only then did Yuen Ho-Wan relax.
With the Chief saying this, the core was clarified, so he didn't need to worry too much.
Lam Ho-Tin also relaxed. His team had a lot of trouble, and he really didn't want to stir up any more.
Wong Bing-Yiu continued, "This time, I have specially invited Senior Inspector Kang Daohang from the Criminal Intelligence Division. He will provide you with intelligence support. We will be a joint operation of three teams."
"If necessary, I can directly bring in the Flying Tigers for you."
"I reiterate: I am not targeting any single team; I am targeting Johnny Wang."
"We absolutely cannot allow his case to be closed so easily."
"Therefore, I called you all here to form a temporary team."
"Yuen Ho-Wan as the lead, Chan Yan-kin as the deputy, Lam Ho-Tin's team to obey Yuen Ho-Wan, and Kang Daohang for support."
"Do you understand?"
Everyone responded in unison, "Yes."
Wong Bing-Yiu called out, "A Tian, stay. Everyone else, go to work."
Chan Yan-kin and the others left.
Lam Ho-Tin let out a dry laugh, "Chief, the Chaozhou Guy's case isn't over yet. Shouldn't we... not participate?"
Wong Bing-Yiu stared at him expressionlessly for a long time.
Lam Ho-Tin dared not move.
After a long silence, Wong Bing-Yiu said faintly, "A Tian, how should I deal with you?"
His voice was very somber.
"You made a big mistake, but you were also incredibly lucky."
"Fong Heung-tung disappeared without a trace, and even the ICAC couldn't find him."
"Oh, you don't know, do you? Four elite field agents from the ICAC died because of this."
Lin Feng's hair stood on end, and he blurted out, "Chief, that wasn't us!"
Wong Bing-Yiu said indifferently, "If you had the guts to do it, that would have been good!"
"I would have thought more highly of you."
"I asked someone to do it!"
Lam Ho-Tin felt his whole body go numb, unable to move.
Wong Bing-Yiu frowned and glanced at him, "What are you afraid of? I didn't hide it from you!"
Lam Ho-Tin came back to his senses and couldn't help but let out a dry laugh.
Indeed, Wong Bing-Yiu hadn't hidden it from him. He was right there when the Chief called that important person.
His reaction just now was purely out of fear.
Wong Bing-Yiu suddenly sighed, "Old Lin, you are an old brother who has been with me."
"I can't bear to see you disgraced."
Lam Ho-Tin remained silent, then after a long while, said shamefully, "Chief, I've disappointed you."
Wong Bing-Yiu looked him in the eyes and said, "We've been through life and death together our whole lives. I don't want your later years to be restless."
"So, I want to accumulate some merits for you. You... should retire honorably."
Boom!
Lam Ho-Tin was speechless for a moment.
"Honorable retirement!"
Wong Bing-Yiu motioned for Lam Ho-Tin to sit down and even started brewing tea.
"Those of us who work as frontline field agents, especially in the Organized Crime and Triad Bureau, face those vicious criminals every day. It's very tough."
"Sometimes, we encounter unspeakable pain."
"Sometimes, we can't help but wonder, with just a few thousand for expenses a month, is it worth risking our lives like this?"
Lam Ho-Tin remained silently.
"Some people think it's worth it, some don't, some initially think it's worth it and then later don't..."
"Old Lin, let's speak openly today."
"Do you think it's worth it?"
Lam Ho-Tin smiled bitterly, "If I didn't think it was worth it, I wouldn't have been a police officer my whole life."
Wong Bing-Yiu sighed, "That's right, your professional ability is outstanding, and you can unite your team members. You have great leadership talent."
"If it weren't for your education... Chan Yan-kin's position would probably be yours."
Lam Ho-Tin shook his head with a bitter smile.
Actually, many frontline police officers don't have high academic qualifications. For example, Zhou Xingxing from the Flying Tigers, he didn't do well in school, which is why he joined the Police Force.
However, while the threshold for the Police Force is relatively low, to advance, one needs considerable academic qualifications.
People say ability is more important than academic qualifications, but sometimes, academic qualifications are far more important than ability.
It's not just a stepping stone.
Lam Ho-Tin's misfortune was his low educational attainment, which kept him stuck. If Wong Bing-Yiu hadn't promoted him exceptionally, he might still be an Inspector now.
Wong Bing-Yiu took a sip of tea, then changed the subject, saying:
"You're not the problem; the people you're with are."
Lam Ho-Tin jolted and quickly said:
"Miao Hua was injured and almost died."
"When people are in danger, they have many concerns and find it hard to let go of certain things. He just got married..."
"Huang Anbang genuinely has no issues."
"As for Jak Jai Ming and Tau Pei... they were just two young men who misunderstood my meaning for a moment..."
Wong Bing-Yiu looked at him calmly. Lam Ho-Tin's voice grew softer and softer until he couldn't speak.
After a long while, Lam Ho-Tin pleaded:
"Chief, can't you make an exception?"
"They are all good kids!"
Wong Bing-Yiu cursed:
"You can't even protect yourself, and you're still thinking about others?"
Lam Ho-Tin smiled bitterly:
"Ultimately, I'm the one who dragged them down."
Wong Bing-Yiu's mood stabilized, and he said:
"Arranging your team to assist Yuen Ho-Wan this time is to let you earn merits, to give you the respect you deserve."
"After Johnny Wang's case concludes, you will retire with honor."
"I've already investigated Fong Heung-tung's matter thoroughly. You indeed did not release him because of his bribe, but you were morally blackmailed by your team members, and that is a fact."
"You are not a competent captain."
Lam Ho-Tin lowered his head.
"Miao Anbang is a traditional elite and talent of our Police Force. He will remain in the force. I plan to assign him to Yuen Ho-Wan's team."
Lam Ho-Tin quickly said:
"Thank you, Chief."
Wong Bing-Yiu slowly tapped the table.
"As for those three, I'll be honest with you: if it weren't for you, and if it weren't for me being at a critical stage of promotion, I would have kicked them out of the team directly."
"Frontline field officers being tempted by ill-gotten gains is a huge taboo!"
Lam Ho-Tin was happy for Wong Bing-Yiu:
"Chief, you're getting promoted?"
Wong Bing-Yiu grumbled:
"My promotion might not necessarily be a good thing."
Lam Ho-Tin was stunned.
Wong Bing-Yiu sighed:
"A promotion in name, a demotion in reality."
"However, I'm still far from retirement, so a promotion to earn a bit more income isn't bad."
"Listen, my plan for them is to transfer them to administrative roles after this operation."
Lam Ho-Tin's face changed. He wanted to plead, but seeing the fierce glint in Wong Bing-Yiu's eyes, he dared not say a word.
"This, however, must wait until they have earned merits."
"If they harbor ill intentions, then, kill without mercy!"
Lam Ho-Tin quickly said:
"They won't, they won't!"
Wong Bing-Yiu snorted coldly:
"It's best if they don't!"
Lam Ho-Tin let out a long sigh, drained his tea, stood up, adjusted his clothes, and gave a solemn salute to Wong Bing-Yiu:
"Thank you, sir!"
Wong Bing-Yiu sighed:
"Why do you have to be like this?"
Lam Ho-Tin's voice was choked:
"Thank you, sir, for preserving us!"
Wong Bing-Yiu gestured with his lips:
"Get out!"
Lam Ho-Tin pushed the door open and left.
Wong Bing-Yiu felt an unusual melancholy.
Lam Ho-Tin was a police officer of the same generation as him; they had even partnered up when they were on the front lines.
He never imagined that in his old age, he would be morally blackmailed by his own subordinates.
What a mess this all was.
Wong Bing-Yiu felt a headache coming on.
This was the best solution he could think of. Lam Ho-Tin was not yet at retirement age, but Wong Bing-Yiu couldn't let him continue like this.
In a profession like the Police Force, one absolutely cannot make mistakes. Once a mistake is made, it creates inner demons, and who knows what will happen the next time it's encountered.
For both emotional and rational reasons, he wouldn't let Lam Ho-Tin take that risk.
As for the other three in Lam Ho-Tin's team, if it weren't for Lam Ho-Tin, Wong Bing-Yiu would have thrown them to the Internal Affairs Department long ago!
"This is truly bizarre."
"In the underworld, the three ungrateful wolves of Tung Sing murdered their master, and in the Police Force, three guys dared to morally blackmail Lam Ho-Tin..."
"What has happened to the underworld these days?"
Wong Bing-Yiu leaned heavily against the back of his chair, a terrible headache throbbing.
He felt an itch again.
Wong Bing-Yiu habitually picked up his beloved gun, looking at the sidearm that had accompanied him for twenty or thirty years, and murmured:
"Now, only you are with me..."
At that moment, his tone was indescribably desolate.
This, perhaps, was life.
Bang bang bang.
"Come in."
Chan Yan-kin pushed the door open and entered:
"Chief... does Lam Ho-Tin's team really have to join Yuen Ho-Wan's team?"
Wong Bing-Yiu rubbed the bridge of his nose wearily:
"Old Lin needs to retire with honor early; he needs merits."
Chan Yan-kin was instantly stunned, blurting out:
"Retire with honor?"
Retire with honor was just a polite way of saying early retirement.
"Old Lin... why would he want to retire with honor?"
Wong Bing-Yiu was very annoyed:
"You don't need to worry about why he wants to retire with honor. Just tell Yuen Ho-Wan and make sure he doesn't reject Old Lin."
Chan Yan-kin had a hunch there was something going on and immediately said:
"Yuen Ho-Wan knows what's important."
"I came to tell you that Kong Long has become the leader of Uncle Hai's group today."
Wong Bing-Yiu frowned:
"Kong Long was already the leader of Uncle Hai's group, wasn't he... Wait..."
Wong Bing-Yiu looked at Chan Yan-kin in surprise:
"Are you saying Kong Long has taken over as the boss of Uncle Hai's arms trafficking group?"
Chan Yan-kin pursed his lips and smiled:
"That kid A Lang is impressive... Uncle Hai has already retired, and that kid is now the boss of this group."
"As long as you wish, Chief, we can round up all these guys at any time!"
Clap clap clap!
Wong Bing-Yiu exclaimed:
"That's truly good news."
"A Lang is an undercover agent, and he's become a boss. Reality is stranger than fiction."
Chan Yan-kin sighed:
"Actually, Uncle Hai always thought highly of A Lang."
Wong Bing-Yiu snorted coldly:
"The undercover agents we send out are all elites from their police academy class. The fact that A Lang earned Uncle Hai's respect means the other party isn't blind."
Wong Bing-Yiu truly wasn't boasting.
For example, Luo Ji, the undercover agent sent out by Lu Qichang, stayed by Ngai Wing-hau's side for five years, serving as Ngai Wing-hau's personal bodyguard.
For example, Ho Ka-Kui, the undercover agent sent out by Inspector Cheng Guobin, was the top enforcer for Chuen Bo, one of Sun Luen Shing's Five Tigers.
For example, Lok Chi-ming, the undercover agent sent out by Lo Chung-lun, was one of Sun Luen Shing's Five Tigers and Lam Yiu-cheung's most trusted person.
Most of these individuals had low police ranks—this didn't mean they lacked ability, but rather that they were young when they were sent out.
Just as bosses in society look at age when hiring, Triads also consider age.
The newer to society someone is, the more they like them.
Newcomers are easy to investigate; their background can be clarified with a simple inquiry. Triads are also afraid of recruiting an undercover boss.
Furthermore, young people are easy to fool and easily brainwashed and controlled.
If you recruit someone with fixed values, it's basically impossible to fool them!
Chan Yan-kin said proudly:
"Uncle Hai actually always wanted A Lang to take over, but A Lang was always hesitant."
Wong Bing-Yiu frowned:
"What's there to hesitate about?"
Chan Yan-kin shrugged:
"He's afraid our Police Force might overthink it."
Wong Bing-Yiu nodded slightly.
That was indeed true.
A Triad is a big dyeing vat; no one can guarantee that an undercover agent won't have any problems once they go in.
Becoming a Triad boss while undercover is very common.
However, becoming the head of a Triad while undercover is very unusual.
It was normal for Kong Long to have this concern.
Wong Bing-Yiu asked:
"So, is Kong Long still a police officer now?"
Chan Yan-kin quickly said:
"Yes, he is!"
"It was Yuen Ho-Wan who enlightened him and then used Johnny Wang's situation to pressure him, which finally made him relax."
"Actually, I wanted to say this earlier, but there were too many people then."
"What do we do now?"
Wong Bing-Yiu took a deep breath:
"Johnny Wang's main base is at Mingxin Hospital, which is a public hospital. If there's a shootout inside the hospital, it's too easy to cause panic..."
"Contact Kong Long and ask if he can arrange a confrontation with Johnny Wang."
"It would be great if we could lure them out of Mingxin Hospital!"
+++
Chapter 210 The Coming Storm
"The Triad world is exceptionally lively this year."
Chuen Bo's loud voice echoed in Uncle Deng's two-story villa.
Uncle Deng leisurely brewed Kung Fu tea, not even looking at Chuen Bo.
Chuen Bo clamored:
"This month has been like a curse. First, Hung Hing's Hall Master, Sai B, had his entire family wiped out. Then, Fatty Lai was subjected to family law, and Tung Sing coughed up a huge chunk of fat."
"And then Chung Ching Society was wiped out."
"We thought things would quiet down after that, but then Sun Luen Shing subjected another Hall Master to family law…"
"Then Chiang Tin-Sung was attacked twice. The first time was one thing, but the second time cost Tung Sing's Dragon Head."
"Evil, truly evil."
"Oh, right, a Foreigner Senior Superintendent also died."
"How many years has it been since the Triad world was this lively?"
Lung Gen reminded him:
"You forgot one more thing. Our Wo Luen Shing also lost a big boss!"
"Big D is transferring to Hung Hing on the sixth of next month."
Chuen Bo's temper ignited instantly, and he clamored:
"Who did this?"
"Big D was, after all, the most powerful among the Nine Hall Masters. He wanted to rise, but you stubbornly wouldn't let him, forcing him away."
Lung Gen was silent for a long time.
Uncle Deng looked up and said:
"The ancestors' rules cannot be broken. The Triad values balance."
"If Big D were chosen, it would be a one-man show."
"At that point, the entire Wo Luen Shing would become his, and who among you would want that?"
Chuen Bo snorted, thinking, what do you mean by 'cannot be a one-man show'? It's just that you can't let go of that bit of power.
He keeps talking about the ancestors' rules, but it's all about his own business.
However, he was also one of the beneficiaries of this situation, so it was naturally inconvenient for him to refute it.
"Big D wanted to be chosen before, but we didn't allow it. There was Lok Siu who was with him during that period."
"Big D has already transferred. Two years from now, when Lok Siu runs, I'd like to see how you'll suppress him."
Lung Gen said foolishly:
"Why suppress Lok Siu?"
"I think Lok Siu is very good!"
"Just let him be chosen."
Chuen Bo looked at Lung Gen as if he had seen a ghost.
"How on earth did you survive in Wo Luen Shing?"
"Where's your brain?"
"Are you stupid from playing with women?"
"Didn't you understand what Uncle Deng just said?"
"The Triad cannot allow a one-man show!"
"Lok Siu is the biggest, so what do you suggest we do?"
"Let me tell you in advance, I will absolutely not choose Lok Siu."
"You can choose whoever you want!"
Lung Gen, cornered, retorted:
"Big D is gone, if not Lok Siu, then who else can step up?"
Chuen Bo sneered:
"Anyone else will do."
"Anyway, no matter how we do it, it won't be worse than Chui Gei."
Lung Gen was choked speechless.
Uncle Deng finally looked up and extended his hand, saying:
"Tea, please!"
The two who had been at loggerheads obediently picked up their teacups and drank their Kung Fu tea.
Uncle Deng smiled:
"We are all people with one foot in the grave. Why such a big temper?"
Chuen Bo snorted:
"We haven't been buried yet. If we don't consider the Triad's affairs, what's the point of our existence?"
Uncle Deng was unfazed:
"That's well said. However, you were right just now, the Triad world changes three times a day, and no one can say what tomorrow will bring."
"Perhaps I won't be around then, either."
"Tomorrow's matters will naturally be dealt with tomorrow. Why the rush?"
Chuen Bo said indignantly:
"He who gives no thought to the future will soon find sorrow at hand!"
"This is also an old saying passed down by our ancestors."
Uncle Deng smiled cheerfully:
"I heard everything you just said. Speaking of which, all this excitement is related to Hung Hing."
Chuen Bo was startled:
"Uncle Deng, mind your words!"
"Our lives are going well. You don't need to bring trouble upon yourself."
"Is Lin Feng someone you can casually provoke?"
Chuen Bo broke out in a sweat:
"Uncle Deng, absolutely do not provoke Lin Feng."
Uncle Deng stopped smiling:
"When did you ever interact with Lin Feng?"
"He's usually very amiable."
Chuen Bo explained:
"I haven't interacted with Lin Feng, but I often hang out with Big D."
"You know Big D, he's arrogant and looks down on almost everyone, relying on his strong abilities."
Lung Gen snorted:
"Not only is he arrogant, but he's not even that respectful in front of Uncle Deng."
"Let alone to us uncles!"
Chuen Bo said:
"See, you know that too, right?"
"But have you ever thought about what he's like when he talks about Lin Feng?"
Lung Gen was stunned:
"It couldn't be... Impossible!"
Chuen Bo said:
"Respectful isn't quite right, but genuinely convinced, that's for sure!"
Lung Gen's mouth fell open:
"Are you kidding me?"
Chuen Bo said angrily:
"What am I kidding about?"
"I saw it with my own eyes."
"You yourselves think about it, it was a conversation between two people, with no outsiders present."
"In reality, it was like talking behind someone's back."
"Even so, Big D spoke of Lin Feng with admiration, completely convinced…"
"If it were you, what would you think?"
"If Lin Feng were really sitting with him, what kind of actions would he take?"
Lung Gen was completely dumbfounded.
Uncle Deng's expression also darkened.
Everyone is like this; if they are not in front of the person concerned, then when they talk about someone, they will unconsciously elevate their own status—
This isn't being two-faced or duplicitous; it's purely human instinct and self-esteem.
However, Big D was so respectful of Lin Feng even when talking to Chuen Bo. When he actually met Lin Feng, he would only be even more respectful.
Chuen Bo said angrily:
"When have you ever seen Big D like that?"
"That guy even dares to challenge heaven, earth, and air in front of Uncle Deng, let alone facing you and me."
Chuen Bo asked Lung Gen,
"Have you ever been yelled at by Big D?"
Lung Gen turned his head away with a dark expression.
Chuen Bo snorted coldly:
"Forget about you and me, Big D even dares to yell at Uncle Deng!"
Uncle Deng's eyebrow twitched involuntarily.
Honestly, Big D was truly a super eccentric!
However, to be fair, that guy had the qualifications, strength, and capital to say such things.
But why did he become a completely different person in front of Lin Feng?
"Lin Feng is just a Hall Master of Causeway Bay; there's still Liang Kun above him!"
"Big D's demeanor in front of Liang Kun must be even more unimaginable."
"Uncle Deng, Lin Feng is not to be trifled with. Let's not casually comment on him; be careful of eavesdroppers."
Lung Gen couldn't help but say:
"You haven't even met Lin Feng, so why are you so afraid?"
Chuen Bo roared:
"I haven't met Lin Feng, but I've seen Big D's attitude towards Lin Feng. Comparing the two, it's clear. Why do I need to see Lin Feng with my own eyes to know his attitude?"
Lung Gen was speechless.
There was absolutely nothing to say!
Uncle Deng sighed:
"Chuen Bo is right."
"Lin Feng is not to be provoked."
Lung Gen looked at Uncle Deng in disbelief:
"You are the backbone of our Wo Luen Shing, and you also praise this guy?"
Chuen Bo said angrily:
"Which guy?"
"Are you stupid? Our Wo Luen Shing and Hung Hing don't have any deep-seated hatred!"
Lung Gen said crossly:
"Didn't your words mislead me?"
Uncle Deng completely ignored the argument between Chuen Bo and Lung Gen. These two had been arguing their whole lives; a little bickering and noise was fine.
"When Sai B was wiped out by Lui Yiu-Yeung, I was invited by Camel and Chiang Tin-Sung to mediate."
"That's when I met Lin Feng."
"This person is formidable!"
Chuen Bo and Lung Gen exchanged glances, simultaneously pricking up their ears.
They may argue and bicker, but they were both uncles of Wo Luen Shing, both standard foxes, just with different levels of shrewdness.
"I originally thought it would be very difficult for Hung Hing and Tung Sing to reconcile."
"I never expected Lin Feng to suddenly emerge from Hung Hing."
"This guy is truly incredibly formidable."
"With just a little effort, he precisely grasped Tung Sing's bottom line and also used his extraordinary martial prowess to awe the entire scene."
"Making Tung Sing unable to fight or curse, they could only accept defeat."
"Even my covert attempts to stir up trouble and make these two Triads fight didn't succeed."
Chuen Bo and Lung Gen exclaimed:
"Your covert attempts to stir up trouble didn't succeed either?"
Uncle Deng said with great regret:
"Yes, they didn't succeed!"
This was originally a shady business, but the three of them spoke of it without any discomfort, truly worthy of being the old foxes of Wo Luen Shing!
"Then, I had Big D go talk to Lin Feng, and also let him learn from Lin Feng."
Lung Gen was greatly alarmed:
"It couldn't be that after that time, Big D decided to transfer, could it?"
Uncle Deng and Chuen Bo both looked very displeased.
Lung Gen said, speechless, "Is that really true?"
Chuen Bo sighed, "There's nothing we can do about it."
"Uncle Deng believes Lin Feng is too young. A twenty-year-old Hall Master is destined to be a figure of his era."
"Anyone in the Triad world will inevitably cross paths with him."
"Even Wo Luen Shing's next-generation standout, Big D and Lok Siu, cannot surpass him."
"It's only natural to learn from his strengths. Even if you can't learn, it's good to make friends with him in advance!"
"Who knew..."
Lung Gen asked in horror, "Just one conversation, and Big D was poached?"
"What magic does Lin Feng possess?"
The three of them had no idea about the inside story at the time, but regardless, Big D's defection to Hung Hing happened after his meeting with Lin Feng.
This was a fact.
However, the process was a bit convoluted... and that was something the three of them couldn't know.
The three people involved, whether it was Liang Kun's brothers or Big D, had no interest in telling outsiders. As for Wo Luen Shing's three old foxes, there was no chance they would find out.
Chuen Bo reiterated, "That's why I said, Lin Feng is not to be provoked!"
Lung Gen was speechless.
Uncle Deng sighed, "Big D's move to Hung Hing is a done deal."
"On the sixth day of next month, Sam Shing Temple will open its doors wide for the transfer ceremony."
Chuen Bo clicked his tongue, "That's a really grand gesture. How many years has it been since Sam Shing Temple opened its doors wide?"
"Big D will definitely be loyal now."
Lung Gen didn't want to speak.
Uncle Deng continued, "What I said earlier, that everything is related to Lin Feng, is true."
"Chuen Bo, you got one thing wrong."
Chuen Bo pushed up his glasses, "You can't be serious?"
Uncle Deng said, "You really got one thing wrong... The guy from Sun Luen Shing who was disciplined by the Triad's internal rules is named Ah Tim. He was one of the Sun Luen Shing Five Tigers, originally Lam Yiu-cheung's right-hand man."
"He was dug out by Lin Feng."
"According to legend, while under Lin Feng's supervision, he was killed by another Yiqi Hu of Sun Luen Shing with three stabs and six holes."
"It's rumored that because of this incident, Sun Luen Shing angered Richard. Later, Lin Feng intervened, and Richard died an unnatural death."
"Legend has it that Lin Feng's influence was so immense that he managed to have Richard's death officially ruled as a suicide."
Lung Gen scoffed, "I've seen the pictures released by the media. Richard was definitely shot to death in an execution-style manner."
"Suicide, my foot. It's absolutely impossible."
"However, his cause of death was indeed ruled as suicide."
"How amusing!"
The three of them burst out laughing simultaneously.
After laughing for a while, Lung Gen asked, "Uncle Deng, what we're talking about is all hearsay, its authenticity is pending..."
Chuen Bo retorted, "You're old enough, stop messing around with women, or you might drop dead one day."
"You've been in the Triad world for so many years, have you lost your mind?"
"Whenever hearsay circulates, it's usually pretty close to the truth."
"Do I still need to remind you of this?"
Lung Gen's face darkened again!
Uncle Deng sighed, "Hung Hing's power is immense. If they continue to develop like this, our Wo Luen Shing will be in trouble."
Lung Gen said, unconvinced, "Chiang Tin-Sung was shot twice, and now their Dragon Head has changed."
"Hung Hing is still powerful?"
Uncle Deng remained unconcerned: "It's survival of the fittest. Chiang Tin-Sung's generation's mission is over; what's left is Liang Kun's."
"Once Liang Kun finishes his task, it will be Lin Feng's turn."
"How clear is their succession?"
"Does it even need to be said?"
"We, the elder generation, must look to the long term."
Chuen Bo's expression was solemn.
"Liang Kun is not to be underestimated. He is Lin Feng's sworn older brother, and their fraternal bond is like a benchmark."
"This is something the entire Triad world knows."
"How many people joined the Triad because of their brotherhood story?"
"Liang Kun was previously suppressed by Chiang Tin-Sung, and there were also people in the Triad who were at odds with him."
"But after the recent changes, those who opposed Liang Kun are basically gone."
"It can be said that the current Hung Hing is Liang Kun's absolute domain."
"With these two combined, Hung Hing is bound to usher in new developments."
"Hong Kong is only so big. For Hung Hing to advance further, it means we have to retreat several steps, and that is unacceptable."
"Our ancestors entrusted this foundation to us; Wo Luen Shing cannot fall apart in our hands."
Chuen Bo and Lung Gen were both silent.
There were no outsiders here; the three spoke quite frankly.
What kind of Dragon Head? Wo Luen Shing's Dragon Head also had to listen to the uncles.
Even Chui Gei, the current Wo Luen Shing Chairman, bowed his head in front of the uncles.
Let alone the various Hall Masters, even the Big Bosses under the Hall Masters ignored him. Without the backing of the uncles, this guy couldn't move an inch.
Why were Wo Luen Shing's uncles so domineering?
The reason was that even though the uncles had stepped down from their positions and entered the Elder Council, they still firmly controlled their former territories.
Just like Guan Zai under Lung Gen.
The Hall Master of Guan Zai is now Koon Tsai Sum, but if Koon Tsai Sum wants to do anything, he must first consult Lung Gen. Only if the latter agrees can he proceed.
Otherwise, even if he is the Hall Master of Guan Zai, it's useless.
This was something Big D resented. Even though Tsuen Wan was unified under his efforts, any business conducted in the territory required the uncles' approval.
If the uncles didn't agree, then sorry, you couldn't do it.
How frustrating for the dignified Hall Master of Tsuen Wan not even to have the freedom to decide on business matters.
So Big D wanted to defect.
This was the root cause.
Ultimately, looking at Wo Luen Shing's uncles, who were old and only had a mouth left – that was purely an illusion. They still firmly held power.
Thus, Uncle Deng could still fully control Wo Luen Shing even after seemingly retiring.
Because Wo Luen Shing had always been under his control and had never slipped away.
Chuen Bo and Lung Gen were both heavy-hearted.
Hong Kong was indeed a small place, with three or four Triads on a single street.
If your power was great, my power would be small; it was a zero-sum game.
Now Hung Hing was strong and well-equipped, and with a new Chairman taking office, new people and a new atmosphere, it might well trigger a major upheaval in the Triad world.
Whether Wo Luen Shing could easily navigate this major upheaval was indeed a big problem.
Chuen Bo and Lung Gen couldn't help but look at Uncle Deng; at critical moments, they had to rely on their backbone.
"Serve tea!"
Chuen Bo and Lung Gen couldn't help but settle down.
Uncle Deng said calmly, "You shouldn't only see Hung Hing's advantages; you also need to see their disadvantages."
"The matter of Chiang Tin-Sung's attack has not yet been resolved..."
Chuen Bo couldn't help but say, "How is that matter unresolved? Wasn't it done by Tung Sing's rebellious disciples?"
Uncle Deng was dumbfounded, "How do you know?"
Chuen Bo's mouth was like a machine gun: "Big D told me."
"After Chiang Tin-Sung was attacked, Hung Hing's Hall Masters gathered, and even Chiang Tin-Yeung, Chiang Tin-Sung's brother, flew back from Siam overnight."
"Big D was very concerned about this matter, as he was going to transfer next month on the sixth. So he called Liang Kun, who told him that Lin Feng had found out in just one night!"
Lung Gen was greatly alarmed, "I haven't seen any reward bounty for Lin Feng."
Chuen Bo sighed, "What reward bounty? There's no need for it at all. Lin Feng simply pinpointed the suspects through the movements in the Triad world."
"It was later confirmed that it was Camel's rebellious disciples who committed patricide."
"I heard that Lin Feng and Ah Bun even negotiated the terms."
Lung Gen was stunned, "How can there be such a monstrous person?"
Uncle Deng, however, shook his head, "Ah Bun is not easy to deal with. He has always hidden behind Camel; he is a truly hidden big boss."
"Anyone who underestimates him will suffer misfortune."
"Even Lin Feng and Liang Kun are no exception."
"Liang Kun has just become the Dragon Head; he should be holding a promotion banquet. I'll have a good chat with a few old friends then."
Lung Gen nodded vigorously, "Yes, we must have a good chat. We're not the only ones who can't stand Hung Hing."
Chuen Bo smiled bitterly, "Looking for trouble with Hung Hing at this time, don't invite disaster."
Uncle Deng smiled, "This time, I'll bring Lok Siu with me."