During a dinner that lasted nearly an hour, Jason brought up Hongmen. Ever since Jiang Chen defeated Li Mufeng over three years ago, Hongmen had been sending a billion dollars each year as per Jiang Chen's request. In this regard, Li Mufeng had done quite well.
However, Li Mufeng had been troubled by a lingering thought for years. When he was defeated by Jiang Chen, Jiang Chen had told him, "Li Mufeng, your cultivation has reached a bottleneck. If you wish to advance further, do not think about it for the next three years. After three years, it will depend on your fortune and opportunity."
These words had become a source of obsession for Li Mufeng over the past three years. Now that the three years had passed, he still had not encountered his fortune or opportunity and remained stuck at the bottleneck. Thus, he wished to seek out Jiang Chen and ask him to interpret those words.
In truth, Jiang Chen's statement was merely an opportunity for Li Mufeng. He was indeed a martial arts prodigy with exceptional talent. At that time, Earth was in need of talent, and Li Mufeng had shown good sense by admitting defeat sincerely and agreeing to Jiang Chen's "Lion's Share."
Compensating one hundred billion dollars would be something anyone else might refuse; even if they agreed, they likely would not follow through later. Yet three years had passed, and Li Mufeng had faithfully paid the billion dollars each year, showing a commendable attitude. Jiang Chen did not mind granting Li Mufeng a chance at fortune.
Hongmen still held significant influence overseas. Currently, Huaxia's Hidden Sect was entering the world stage with martial arts flourishing; however, the influence of Huaxia's Hidden Sect remained limited domestically. For overseas development, a new strategy was needed, and Hongmen served as an excellent entry point. Tracing back its origins, Hongmen could be considered a sect of Huaxia that simply migrated overseas.
Therefore, Jiang Chen decided to meet with Li Mufeng the next day.
Just after finishing dinner, the butler of the Chard Family hurried in. "Sir, members of the Hidden Order request an audience," he said.
"We don't have time to meet them tonight; let them go," Chard replied indifferently.
The butler hesitated but eventually agreed and left. However, after a while, he returned—not alone but accompanied by two elderly men in long robes from the White Elder faction. These two old men had bushy beards, prominent noses, and deep-set eyes that gave them an air of mystery.
"Jason, I'm curious what guests could be more important than us. We from the Hidden Order have come to discuss cooperation with you; this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for your Chard Family," said the Tall Elder, who stood about six feet three inches tall, with a smile that seemed both genuine and mocking.
"I've already said it; there's no need for cooperation between us and your Hidden Order. You should find someone else," Jason replied coolly. Faced with this mysterious organization, he initially felt some trepidation; however, with Jiang Chen beside him today, he felt no need to show any fear.
"Cooperating with our Hidden Order will bring endless benefits to your Chard Family, Jason. Don't be ungrateful," the Tall Elder said again, his tone now chillingly low.
The Hidden Order was one of the most mysterious and powerful organizations in the world; few knew of its existence. This ancient sect existed only in rare ancient texts. However, one undeniable fact was that the Hidden Order had a powerful background and mastered various esoteric arts; compared to them, Huaxia's Hidden Sects were no match.
For centuries, the Hidden Order had remained shrouded in secrecy and out of public view—partly because its doctrines were hidden and partly because it shared similarities with the Holy Witchcraft of old Europe. During that time on the European continent, there was a massive witch-hunt movement that led to the decline of witchcraft while allowing the Hidden Order to escape unscathed; their operations were even more enigmatic.
Those who walked in darkness found safety only by remaining within it.
However, this time, the rise of Huaxia Martial Arts has ushered the world into an era of martial arts. Various hidden forces have gradually emerged from the shadows. This world is no longer what it used to be; people are not only accepting these hidden powers but are also eager to pursue them. The Hidden Order is also preparing to step into the light.
But coming out requires legitimacy and, of course, financial support. In this world, who has the most money? Undoubtedly, it is the Chard Family. Therefore, they approached Jason, hoping for a collaboration.
Initially, they thought Jason would agree without hesitation, but to their surprise, he was not interested at all. This left the two elders of the Hidden Order quite displeased.
"Just consider me ungrateful. I have guests, so I won't see you out. Please make yourselves comfortable," Jason said lightly, his tone confident as if he didn't regard the members of the Hidden Order at all.
"Heh, Jason, I hope you won't regret your decision today," the Tall Elder said with a sharp gaze that seemed capable of killing. The Clan Leader of the Chard Family was truly stubborn and lacked tact.
"Many wish to collaborate with us in the Hidden Order. I know your Chard Family controls the world's economic lifeline, but economics must be backed by strength. If you cooperate with us, you will gain that strength. If not, your Chard Family's position will soon be replaced," the Short and Fat Elder said in a deep voice.
"You needn't worry about that. There are other forces in this world besides your Hidden Order," Jason replied calmly.
The two elders of the Hidden Order were so furious that their beards seemed ready to fly off. Having said all they could, there was nothing more to discuss.
"Since you insist on making enemies of us in the Hidden Order, we shall see how this unfolds," the Tall Elder declared as he stomped his foot on the ground, shattering the jade floor beneath him before storming off in anger.
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