Dawn shone over the Bibo River. Its surface rippled gently, as if scattered with gold dust. From a distance, the river stretched all the way to the horizon like a white ribbon.
But the beautiful scenery did nothing to lift the spirits of anyone at Deyang Town's wharf on the riverbank. As busy as ever, the place was gripped by an especially strange atmosphere today.
Last night, every steward and manager the Che family had stationed at the wharf was killed. Dozens of heads had rolled, and the bodies had been chopped into pieces and thrown into the Bibo River to feed the fish. The stench of blood still lingered, and in the morning breeze, it seemed one could still hear last night's terrified screams...
Early that morning, dozens of newly appointed stewards and managers stood at attention on the wharf, not daring to utter a word. From time to time, they glanced toward Deyang Town in the distance.
When the youth in black clothes, a massive spear strapped to his back, came striding through the dawn, a heavy gloom descended over the entire wharf. People kept working, but their voices were much quieter and their movements much slower.
Everything seemed so cautious, so fearful.
"The Che family's clout at this wharf is just like the blazing sun in the sky. One of the family's own is enough to leave this entire bustling wharf gasping for breath!"
In the distance, the "delinquent girl" hiding in a corner curled her lip and muttered.
"Second Young Master, you're here. I've prepared a big boat and a hundred capable men for you..."
Before the Black-robed Youth had even reached the wharf, the newly appointed steward hurried over with a bow, watching his face nervously as he spoke.
"No need. I'm enough on my