NOVEL NEXT Chapter 9: THE CHEN FAMILY'S CHALLENGE
The night sky over Tianlong Estate was serene, a stark contrast to the silent storm brewing beneath the surface. Inside the grand study, where gold-trimmed bookshelves lined the walls, Su Chen sat comfortably in a sleek leather chair, sipping his tea. His expression was calm, but anyone who knew him understood that this was the calm before the storm.
Across from him stood Wang Jun, his most trusted strategist, who had just finished presenting a detailed report on the Chen Family's recent movements. On a massive screen mounted on the wall, live data flickered—financial reports, stock movements, and underground intelligence gathered by their vast network.
"They're using a three-pronged approach," Wang Jun began, his voice steady but serious. "First, they're aggressively acquiring mid-sized companies and turning them into subsidiaries under their control. This move is meant to slowly erode our influence in the business world. Second, they're bribing and coercing government officials to slow down our projects, delaying our expansion. And third…" He turned toward Su Chen, his expression darkening. "They're attempting to recruit high-level martial artists into their fold."
Seated nearby on an elegant couch, Ye Meng swirled a glass of wine in her hand. Her long black hair cascaded down her back, and her sharp eyes gleamed with amusement. "So, they're not just attacking us financially. They're trying to match our martial strength too?"
Wang Jun nodded. "That's correct. Several renowned martial families have already been approached by the Chens. While most remain neutral, some have begun siding with them, thinking they might have a shot at taking us down."
Su Chen sipped his tea, his eyes remaining indifferent. "Do we have names?"
Wang Jun flipped through his tablet. "Yes. The Huang Family, Xie Sect, and the Wu Clan have all been in direct talks with Chen Rong. Individually, they aren't a major threat, but combined, they could cause unnecessary trouble. The Chen Family is offering them resources, protection, and a share in their business empire in exchange for their loyalty."
Ye Meng scoffed. "It's always the same, isn't it? These old martial families refuse to accept the rise of a new power. They cling to their so-called traditions, believing that bloodline is everything. If they had any foresight, they'd see that Su Chen is the future."
Su Chen set down his teacup with a quiet clink. "Let them play their games. They think they're moving in silence, but we see everything. And once they're fully committed…" His lips curled into a cold smile. "We cut off their retreat."
Wang Jun smirked. "I assume you have something in mind?"
Su Chen leaned back, exuding effortless dominance. "Of course. We'll start by infiltrating their businesses. Buy out their key suppliers, sabotage their logistics, and apply pressure where it hurts most. We don't need to attack them directly—just make survival impossible for them."
Ye Meng chuckled, setting her wine glass down. "Ruthless as ever. I love it."
Wang Jun bowed slightly. "Understood, Young Master. I'll begin the operations immediately."
As Wang Jun left the room, Ye Meng stretched lazily, her silk dress clinging to her elegant figure. "So, what's next? Are you going to sit back and watch them squirm?"
Su Chen smirked. "No. I want them to believe they're winning—until it's too late to escape."
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The Chen Family's Hidden Moves
Meanwhile, in a private underground meeting hall, Chen Rong, the patriarch of the Chen Family, sat at the head of a long mahogany table. Seated around him were key members of his family, along with representatives from the Huang Family, Xie Sect, and the Wu Clan.
A projection flickered to life at the center of the table, displaying a strategic map of the city, with key locations marked.
"The Tianlong Family has grown too powerful," Chen Rong declared, his deep voice carrying authority. "If we allow them to continue unchecked, Su Chen will dominate not only the business world but also the martial arts world. We must act now before he becomes unstoppable."
Huang Tao, the leader of the Huang Family, crossed his arms. "Su Chen is already considered untouchable. Even the government doesn't dare to interfere with him. What makes you think we can stop him?"
Chen Rong's eyes gleamed with ambition. "Because we will strike from the shadows. While Su Chen basks in his luxury, we will chip away at his foundation. Business first, martial force second. Once his empire begins to crumble, his alliances will weaken, and that is when we will make our move."
Xie Yun of the Xie Sect chuckled. "And what if he retaliates before we finish our preparations?"
A smile played on Chen Rong's lips. "Then we'll simply ensure he never sees it coming."
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Su Chen's Counterattack Begins
At dawn, the gears of Su Chen's empire began to turn.
Before the Chen Family could make their next move, Su Chen's forces struck first.
One by one, key suppliers mysteriously cut ties with the Chen Family's businesses. Shipping routes were delayed, permits were inexplicably revoked, and influential investors suddenly withdrew their support. The businesses that had once relied on the Chens found themselves facing financial ruin overnight.
Within the underground world, an even deadlier battle was taking shape.
Su Chen's forces infiltrated the martial families siding with the Chens, exposing their weaknesses and exploiting their rivalries. Old grudges were reignited, and once-solid alliances began to crack under pressure.
By the time the Chen Family realized what was happening, it was already too late.
Chen Rong sat in his office, his fists clenched as reports flooded in. "How is he moving this fast?! Who is leaking our plans?!"
One of his subordinates hesitated before responding, "It's not just us, sir. The Huang Family, Xie Sect, and Wu Clan… they're all facing pressure from unknown sources. Su Chen is dismantling our foundation without even lifting a finger!"
For the first time in years, Chen Rong felt fear creep into his heart.
Meanwhile, back at Tianlong Estate, Su Chen and Ye Meng sat together, watching the sunrise.
"Chen Rong is probably panicking right now," Ye Meng mused, sipping her tea.
Su Chen smirked. "Good. Let him struggle for a while. I want him to feel helpless before we finish him off."
Ye Meng's eyes sparkled with admiration. "You really enjoy toying with your enemies, don't you?"
Su Chen turned to her, his smirk deepening. "It's not about enjoyment—it's about making sure they never dare to challenge me again."
As the sun rose higher, casting golden light over the city, one thing was clear—the war had already been decided before it even began.