Chapter 1325 - 1301: An Earth-Shaking Event

Chapter 1325: Chapter 1301: An Earth-Shaking Event

Palermo hasn’t recovered from the explosive events yet, and another earth-shattering incident has erupted in the city center. This time, however, the target isn’t everyone, but the group living in the shadows, so the common folks on the surface continue to chatter eagerly about the officials they know from the explosive events, inquiring whether the anti-corruption bureau has taken action.

However, in another place, a wave of people has gathered, led by several fierce-looking men in a dim warehouse, packing the place tightly.

The noise was constantly rising and falling, seemingly discussing some monumental matter, but everyone had an excited expression. The few sitting in the upper positions appeared to have reached a consensus after prolonged discussions. One stood up, and the people below immediately quieted down, waiting for him to speak.

"Brothers, today our three triads gather here for one reason and one reason only. You must have heard that the legendary Rose Staff and Jiexhi Seal have appeared in Palermo. Now is the time for us to join forces; once we obtain these treasures, we can find the secret treasure and enjoy endless glory and wealth."

The fervent speech received a heated response, and waiting for the uproar to pass, the man continued, "In times of prohibition, the leaders of the other two gangs and I have reached a consensus. We will do whatever it takes to get hold of these treasures, so next, I believe our goals will be aligned." Saying this, he looked at the two men on either side and raised his left hand. "I swear in the name of our great Italian Mafia ancestors that whoever among you can obtain these treasures will be nominated as the next Godfather."

This was an enticing offer to those unsung underlings, and everyone’s eyes lit up, dreaming of the day they would become the Mafia’s Godfather. Seeing the desired effect, the man then nodded to those beside him, "Brothers, we must acquire these items before the other party does. Now it’s up to your abilities, go!"

With the order given, the warehouse suddenly roared with voices as people rushed out the door, disappearing into the night. The leading three exchanged greetings then parted ways.

At this moment, three people walked into the empty warehouse, exchanging smiles. Just now, the grand scene drew twice as many people as expected; these individuals usually hidden in dark corners had surprisingly gathered in considerable numbers. It seems their leaders might have forgotten they had so many small gangs under them.

"Young Master Xiao truly has a way, a mere piece of news can show me such a passionate scene. After sitting in this position for so long, I’ve almost forgotten my subordinates have this kind of passion." Nicholas’ words were ambiguous whether he was lamenting or commenting, but nothing clear could be discerned from his speech.

"This time, I helped you eliminate this trouble, considered as a favor returned, but there are parts of the news I handed to you that I can’t resolve for you — personal matters should be taken care of personally. Although Adam is one of our Xiao Family members, a woman who can become Godfather is far stronger than being just an assassin." Yelu Shou handed Nicholas the pre-prepared paper bag, recording all the secrets between Shao Weihua and Raphael.

"I must thank Young Master Xiao for this help; it’s just that the secrets of the legendary treasure do they hold any mystery, I hope you might inform me." Nicholas pondered over the object in his hands, feeling very heavy inside.

"Actually, a secret without secrets is still a secret; the Godfather knows this well, so there’s a bit of grievance to seek answers from me." Xiao Lin smiled faintly. "I’ve never believed a treasure could grant anyone the whole world, if it were truly that miraculous, how could I leave the family heirloom unused? Yet saying there’s none might not be entirely true. Right or wrong, who can truly know?"

"However, what puzzles me is, your subordinates all wish to obtain your position. Can you still sit by idly like this?" Xiao Lin continued.

"Young Master Xiao has already spoken of the truth and falsehood, why should I worry if they will fulfill their dreams? They’re but a motley crew." Nicholas shook the paper bag. "Thank you for your kind intentions, I’ll take my leave now."

"Nicholas never gives a direct answer, which isn’t beneficial for us." Yelu Shou said, watching Nicholas’ back.

"He won’t act against his own interest; Nicholas is clever, even the smallest ant will resist when the time comes. He has his concerns, and the emergence of the treasure will keep him busy for a while." Xiao Lin also watched Nicholas’ back. In moments like this, most people would take drastic measures to prevent any unfavorable outcomes for themselves.

The reason he brought Nicholas to this warehouse was to see his reaction to potential rebellion among his subordinates, but to his surprise, Nicholas remained so calm or rather, indifferent without any ripple.

Xiao Lin could only say Nicholas is a person with deep thoughts, in comparison, Quan Mingyuan is indeed nothing.

Meanwhile, faraway in an independent villa in Yanjing, Quan Xianglin was restless. A wide television screen was still connected with Shao Qinyi, from whose mouth it was learned that the Rose Staff and Jiexhi Seal appeared in Palermo, which for him wasn’t good news.

"Do you know whose hands they’re in?" After pondering briefly, Quan Xianglin asked.

Shao Qinyi hesitated, very reluctant to voice this person’s name; the astute Quan Xianglin captured all his unease. "Why does this person make you uneasy? The Jiexhi Seal is the Xiao Family’s heirloom; you want me to believe he would ignore this matter, unless this person is someone familiar to us and can influence my loyal underlings."

Upon hearing this, Shao Qinyi immediately knelt before the screen, knowing he couldn’t hide from Quan Xianglin. "Shao Weihua."

Upon hearing Shao Qinyi mention the name, Quan Xianglin nodded understandingly. "He disappeared after the clubhouse in Palermo was set on fire, and when he suddenly reappeared, there was also an online exposé. I should have guessed it was Xiao Zhenfeng’s scheme."

"Chairman, even so, I still don’t think you shouldn’t come to Palermo right now." Shao Qinyi furrowed his brow in doubt. "I will handle Shao Weihua, and I won’t hold back this time, but now the whole underworld in Palermo is pursuing the whereabouts of the treasure. So, if you come at this moment, there might be unforeseen events."

"Handle Shao Weihua? Can you do it?" Quan Xianglin retorted.

"This time, he didn’t cause trouble, but he has developed ulterior motives. However, I don’t believe this is his intention; someone is inciting him from the sidelines." Shao Qinyi wanted to defend Shao Weihua but felt there was no justification.

"You don’t need to make excuses for Shao Weihua any longer. Regardless of whether the situation developed because of him, I will no longer be lenient with this person. Shao Qinyi, you should be well aware of my temperament, and continuing to speak will make me annoyed."

"Yes, I understand, sir."

"Hmm, what has Quan Mingyuan been up to recently? I told him to return to Yanjing; why is he still hanging around with you?"

"The young master insists on eliminating Xiao Lin before he’s willing to go back to see you. I’ve met the leader of the death row prisoners, but the conditions they offered I can’t agree to."

"Why does the death row group now want to engage in mind games and exploit loopholes?" Quan Xianglin snorted coldly. "In the life and death contract, it’s clearly stated in black and white. If they want to rebel, bring them all back for punishment."

"Their condition is that upon completing the task this time, they wish to be set free." Shao Qinyi thought for a moment and decided to reveal the demand of the death row prisoners.

"Freedom?" Quan Xianglin narrowed his eyes. "We’ll talk about that if they survive."

"I understand the chairman’s intent, and I will convey your words to them."

"Mm!" Quan Xianglin closed the connection, and the room plunged into darkness. Smoke swirled, obscuring his expression.

Shao Qinyi sat alone in front of the computer. His desire to retain Shao Weihua was not so evident. Quan Mingyuan walked in from outside and casually picked up a cigarette from the table and lit it. "Finished chatting with my old man?"

"Young master, I still urge you to immediately set off back to Yanjing; it’s no longer safe here." Shao Qinyi spoke quietly, avoiding the topic raised by Quan Mingyuan.

"Go back? I can’t bear that disgrace. It’s still the same—you tell me when Xiao Lin is dead, and I’ll withdraw." Quan Mingyuan blew smoke at Shao Qinyi. "You can’t hide the deal with the death row group from me because I have more money than you. For people like them, all they see is money, understand?"

"Shao Qinyi never intended to seize the young master’s authority; just relying on assassination to deal with Xiao Lin won’t suffice. We need more strategies."

Quan Mingyuan laughed heartily as if he had heard something amusing. "Strategies? Shao Junwei is indeed outstanding in using strategies, but I haven’t seen one bit of effect—the ones who should die didn’t, but those who shouldn’t are more or less dead. How can your strategies convince me?"

"Young master, you shouldn’t speak like this."

"How else should I speak? My second uncle is a living example; he’s dead. Can you say it wasn’t your mistake? Were those reports also a product of your strategies? I truly don’t see where your abilities lie, or do you have the knack for flattering, making my old man trust you so much?"

Quan Mingyuan’s words grew increasingly cutting. Shao Qinyi clenched his fists tightly, restraining his urge to beat him up. "If the young master has no interest in my proposal, then I will stand by and await your orders."

"Mm, that’s more like it. From now on, don’t meddle in matters concerning Xiao Lin; instead, keep your brother in check so he doesn’t cause more trouble." (To be continued. If you like this work, you are welcome to go to Qidian (qidian.com) to vote for recommendations and monthly tickets. Your support is my greatest motivation. Mobile users, please read at m.qidian.com.)