Chapter Forty-Six: Jiang Yu, Who Are You Really? (First Update)

At the mention of the word "old acquaintance," a delicate mist clouded Gu Feifei’s beautiful eyes, a trace of melancholy welling up within them.

This startled Young Master Wang and Young Master Liu, both of whom had pursued Gu Feifei for years, leaving their mouths agape. Gu Feifei was a woman of unparalleled allure, having made her debut as a sensual movie star. Though many tabloids had smeared her with rumors of a chaotic private life—particularly in recent times, after she had offended certain people, and the world seemed eager to kick her while she was down—even alleging that she was the mistress of a renowned international tycoon—those playboys knew Gu Feifei’s character better than anyone. Throughout the years, she had remained pure and self-disciplined, never becoming embroiled in any genuine scandal. Though she always greeted others with a polite smile, behind that façade, countless hopeful men had been gently but firmly turned away.

All the more astonishing, then, that Gu Feifei would so openly declare that Jiang Yu reminded her of someone from her past, her expression so delicately wistful, her beauty tinged with plaintive sorrow, that everyone was left entranced.

Young Master Liu and his companions looked toward Jiang Yu with undisguised envy.

Jiang Yu replied with a faint smile, “You said yourself, I merely resemble that person.”

Still, he felt a flicker of surprise within—he hadn’t expected this girl’s intuition to be so keen.

Xia Qinghan waved her hand dismissively. “All right, let’s eat. We’ll rest here tonight, and tomorrow morning we’ll reach the town of Liusha.”

During the meal, Gu Feifei’s luminous eyes stole glances at Jiang Yu, sometimes boldly, sometimes subtly.

All of this did not escape the notice of Young Master Liu and the others.

After dinner, Young Master Liu suggested they go to a local club to sing karaoke. Since they wouldn’t be setting off until the next day and the night was yet young, why not relax for a while? Xia Qinghan and Gu Feifei readily agreed, finding themselves at loose ends anyway.

Several luxury cars drew up before the entrance of Starlight Club. Raising his eyes to the neon sign, Young Master Liu smiled leisurely. “Starlight? Isn’t this one of Li Hao’s establishments?”

Young Master Wang let out a hearty laugh. “Of course. Li Hao’s been unstoppable these past years; half of his influence already stretches into Jiangbei. I heard he spent fifty million building this place. He’ll be competing in the upcoming Jiangbei tournament too. I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s here tonight.”

“My father and Li Hao are old friends—by rights, I’m practically his nephew.”

There was no mistaking the pride in his tone.

Even Young Master Liu felt a ripple of emotion. Though his own family’s business was outside Jiangbei, he had long heard tales of Li Hao’s prowess.

Xia Qinghan, too, looked surprised. She had already considered these young scions accompanying Gu Feifei to be impressive, but to hear Young Master Liu casually declare himself Li Hao’s “half-nephew”—such a formidable network of connections was truly astonishing.

In recent years, the Xia family had been divided, its two branches locked in bitter rivalry. Li Hao seized the opportunity to rise, and now stood on nearly equal footing with the two houses.

“It seems Young Master Liu’s family business is thriving—if even a powerhouse like Li Hao shows him deference,” Young Master Wang remarked.

Young Master Liu smiled. “I’ve already notified Li Hao. He’ll be joining us for a drink shortly.”

A hush fell over the group.

In truth, Young Master Liu was not exaggerating. As soon as they entered, a staff member led them to a lavish private room, where an array of fine wines and delicacies awaited them—as if it had all been prepared in advance.

Young Master Liu was eager to display his status, partly out of jealousy toward Jiang Yu. He threw out his impressive connections before Gu Feifei, hoping to win her heart. During dinner, she and Jiang Yu had exchanged glances, which had left him feeling bitter and unsettled, the frustration lingering in his chest.

“Hmph. Gu Feifei is a woman of great status—a goddess of China—how could someone ordinary like you ever dream of winning her? Even if you’re a disciple of some martial artist, outside Jiangbei, a mere practitioner of internal force is nothing; there are plenty of people who wouldn’t give you the time of day.”

With these thoughts, Young Master Liu shot Jiang Yu a look filled with hostility.

Jiang Yu, noticing these small gestures, glanced helplessly at Gu Feifei. Because of her, he had unwittingly drawn the enmity of another wealthy young man.

Of course, a pampered scion was of no concern to Jiang Yu. But the more flies there were, the more troublesome things became—one couldn’t just swat every single one, could one? Surrounded by a thousand flies, even the strongest would tire.

Hearing that this was Li Hao’s club, Gu Feifei’s expression grew complicated. In truth, Li Hao was her senior apprentice brother.

The atmosphere soon grew lively, with everyone singing and drinking. This was Gu Feifei’s domain—beyond her acting, she was also a talented singer.

Her gentle voice was like a celestial melody, leaving everyone enchanted.

It had to be said—listening to Gu Feifei sing was a true pleasure. At her concerts in years past, ticket scalpers had driven prices into the thousands, a testament to her popularity and vocal prowess.

Barely ten minutes had passed before the door to the private room swung open. Gu Feifei had to pause mid-song at the sight of the newcomer.

Head Wolf—the number one lieutenant under Li Hao.

He wore a suit, his slicked-back hair gleaming, exuding an air of authority.

“Brother Wolf is here,” Young Master Liu exclaimed with delight, hurrying to offer a toast.

For Head Wolf to come personally—Young Master Liu’s background was clearly no idle boast.

Everyone quickly rose to their feet. Whatever their own backgrounds, in front of Head Wolf, they could only adopt the posture of juniors.

“Jiang Yu, what are you doing just sitting there? Don’t you see Brother Wolf has come to drink with us? Stand up and show some respect,” Young Master Liu scolded, frowning.

But at that moment, when Head Wolf’s gaze landed on Jiang Yu, his eyes went wide, his lips quivering. “Jiang… Jiang…”

The word “Master” hung unspoken.

Jiang Yu smiled, lifted his glass, and stood with the others to return the toast.

“What’s the matter, Brother Wolf?” Young Master Liu asked, noticing his odd behavior.

Head Wolf quickly regained his composure and shook his head. “Nothing.”

To encounter Jiang Yu here, and to see him being scolded by a wealthy playboy—Head Wolf was so startled that his soul nearly fled. If not for the circumstances, he wouldn’t have dared to take even one sip of wine.

Among the group, the strikingly beautiful Li Mengxue’s eyes flashed with sharp intelligence.

Perhaps others missed it, but when Head Wolf looked at the unassuming, plainly dressed young man, his expression was one of outright fear—his hand even trembled on his glass.

Li Mengxue’s fine brows knitted in curiosity as she glanced back and forth between Jiang Yu and Head Wolf.

“How is Uncle Hao’s health these days?” Young Master Liu asked with a smile.

Head Wolf replied, “Brother Hao is in his prime, full of vigor. You needn’t worry, Young Master Liu. I’ll convey your regards. I have other important guests to attend to, so I’ll take my leave.”

His handling was impeccable, giving Young Master Liu full respect.

At this, Young Master Liu shot Jiang Yu a slightly provocative look.

Before leaving, Head Wolf gave Jiang Yu a meaningful glance.

Moments later, Jiang Yu found an excuse to slip out.

…

In the lounge area, Jiang Yu arrived to find Head Wolf already waiting.

“Master Jiang,” Head Wolf said quickly, rising with deference, a bead of cold sweat sliding down his cheek.

Jiang Yu chuckled. “Are you really so frightened of me?”

At the sound of that cool voice, Head Wolf remembered, with a shudder, that night a month ago in a KTV suite at Bihai Yuntian, when Jiang Yu had nearly killed him with a single gesture. Once bitten by a snake, one fears even a rope for ten years; to this day, he still dreamed of that moment and the demonic gleam in Jiang Yu’s eyes.

Swallowing hard, Head Wolf murmured, “Who wouldn’t fear Master Jiang’s might?”

Jiang Yu waved a hand. “Where’s Li Hao?”

Head Wolf replied honestly, “Brother Hao is entertaining some guests. You know how it is with the tournament approaching—many important figures have gathered here to rest.”

“I’ll notify Brother Hao immediately to come see you.”

Jiang Yu shook his head. “No need. Just pass on a message: after the tournament, I want all my disciples summoned to see me, including Liu Banian and Ma Tianzong. There are matters to resolve.”

His tone was edged with ice.

Head Wolf’s body tensed. Being shrewd, he instantly drew many connections.

In the private room earlier, Gu Feifei had also been present. Lately, she’d been ostracized in the industry, her career in jeopardy, beset by a flood of negative press. Once known as China’s “Little Daji,” she was now painted by unscrupulous tabloids as a wanton woman.

If Jiang Yu was with Gu Feifei, he was surely aware of her predicament. To summon all his disciples—this could only mean he intended to demand answers. Why, with so many powerful figures around, had they allowed Gu Feifei to fall into such straits?

The more he thought, the more alarmed he became. Head Wolf had seen Jiang Yu’s wrath firsthand—the memory of his godlike power was seared into his mind.

“I’ll notify Brother Hao at once,” Head Wolf said, sweat streaming down his face.

Jiang Yu nodded. “You did well just now.”

Head Wolf understood—he meant that he hadn’t revealed Jiang Yu’s identity moments earlier.

Was he kidding? Judging by those playboys’ attitudes, they clearly had no idea who Jiang Yu was. There had to be a reason for that; to spill the secret would only disrupt Jiang Yu’s plans.

“You may go. Tell Li Hao I’ll arrive at Liusha Town tomorrow as well.”

“Yes, sir.”

Head Wolf turned and hurried away, finally able to breathe again.

Jiang Yu remained behind, smiling faintly. “You’ve seen enough. Come out now.”

From behind a pot of lush foliage, Li Mengxue emerged, her face pale.

“You… you…”

She wanted to speak, but no words came, her gaze full of fear as she looked at Jiang Yu.

This was a man before whom even Head Wolf bent the knee. Unbelievable that someone so inconspicuous could be hidden among them.

Jiang Yu’s voice was cold. “What is it? Didn’t you hear everything just now?”

Li Mengxue stood frozen to the spot, unable to move.

After a long moment, she smiled bitterly. “We all thought Xia Qinghan and Young Master Liu held the highest status, but it turns out you’re the one truly hidden among us.”

Jiang Yu replied, hands clasped behind his back, “I’d prefer not to hear any gossip.”

“Yes,” Li Mengxue answered quietly.

When she finally looked up, Jiang Yu had already vanished.

Only his words remained, ringing in her mind like a warning bell.

“Jiang Yu, who are you, really?” she murmured, gazing in the direction of the private room, lost in thought.