Chapter 9; A Gambler's Luck

"Haa," he sighed heavily as he downed his bowl of wine in one swift gulp. His face contorted with a mix of worry, frustration, and disbelief. He couldn't believe what he was witnessing - his own eldest brother and cousin gambling right before his eyes. In a display of dismay, he scrunched up his face and let out a soft whimper. Ming Huan, despite occasionally winning and losing, didn't mind the outcome. The sight of his little bunny's joyful and radiant expression made it all worth it. Her bright and cheerful mood put him at ease, comforting him in both victory and defeat.

Meanwhile, Dan Zhang was in a state of pure ecstasy. His winnings were substantial, enough to sustain him for an entire year. Even the typically grumpy Nan Fang found himself content with the outcome of their gambling session. The flush of success brought a rare smile to his face.
"Zhan'er, you've collected enough, it's time to leave," Nan Fang said with a satisfied tone in his voice.
"Okay, Gege," Zhan'er responded obediently. He carefully gathered his winnings and stuffed them into a sack, hoisting it onto his back. The weight of the money made him hunch slightly, giving the impression from afar that he was a young man burdened with a perpetual load.
"It was a delightful game indeed," he said, stroking his mustache and flashing a friendly smile at the croupier. However, the croupier's grin seemed forced, betraying a hidden agenda in his eyes. Gradually nodding his head, he couldn't help but wonder if these young players believed they could escape with the money unscathed.

The duo exited the hall, with Ming Huan and Yuan also leaving, maintaining a respectable distance as they went about their own affairs.

"Haa, all that gambling really worked up an appetite," Dan Zhang remarked, stifling a yawn and absentmindedly scratching his neck. The exhaustion was evident in his demeanor, but he was determined to satisfy his hunger.
Inside the Huõyàn hall, the vibrant ambiance was alive with the gentle hum of conversations and laughter. The tantalizing aroma of delectable food and fine wine permeated the air, creating an enticing atmosphere. Adorned in hues of red and gold, the spacious hall provided a sense of grandeur, with well-spaced dining sets ensuring privacy and comfort for all.

A sudden idea sparked in Dan Zhang's mind, causing a mischievous grin to spread across his face.
"Everyone!" Dan Zhang's voice echoed through the hall, commanding everyone's attention. The diners turned their heads, intrigued by his enthusiasm.

"Today, all meals are on me!" he announced, a wide smile spreading across his face. The crowd erupted in cheers and applause, expressing their delight and gratitude. Some approached Dan and Nan to offer their appreciation and cheers. With a nod of approval from Nan, they placed their orders, and within half an hour, their table become a vibrant spectacle of delicious food, pleasing both the eye and the palate.

On their table, a feast of Peking roasted duck, kung pao chicken, sweet and sour pork, hot pot, dumplings, lotus pods, small cakes, and a jar of fine wine beckoned the senses. Adjacent to them, the two princes observed the duo, seated at a separate dining area. A tray of tea was delicately placed before them, and Ming Huan gracefully poured the fragrant brew for both his cousin and himself. Their eyes fixed on Dan and Nan. Dan's appetite was insatiable as he devoured the sumptuous feast before him, eagerly indulging in every dish within his reach. Witnessing his cousin's enthusiasm, Nan served him a bowl of his homemade broth, ensuring that he didn't miss out on any flavor. Dan broke a drumstick, offering it to Nan with a mischievous grin.
"You finally remembered me," Nan scoffed teasingly, annoyed but accepting the drumstick, and started munching away.
A smile subtly played on Nan Fang's lips as he nodded in appreciation towards his sworn brother, exuding an irresistible charm akin to that of an ice-frost prince. Observing this, Dan couldn't help but flash a toothy grin and remark,
"Aww, brother Nan looks absolutely adorable when he smiles!" The camaraderie between the two was evident, radiating warmth and fondness. With an eye roll and a concealed smile, the young man quipped,
"Who looks cute when he smiles?" The bandits couldn't help but steal a glance at the imitation of affection between the two, their jealousy hidden beneath the tucks of their sleeves.

Meanwhile, Ming Yin, perplexed by his brothers' sudden interest in the duo's meal,
"Waiter!" Dan called out, motioning for a passing waiter. He handed over two taels of gold, causing astonishment among the onlookers. The young waiter's eyes widened in shock and disbelief at the unexpected gesture of generosity. Dan Zhang sneered, finding amusement in the waiter's reaction, thoroughly enjoying the scene unfolding before him.
"Here," a distinct clank resonated on the table, causing all the onlookers to gasp in astonishment. Adding more to the previous, overwhelmed with the sudden wealth he had acquired, the waiter's knees buckled, causing him to stumble. He was taken aback by the generous amount of money. Feeling a wave of gratitude, he immediately kowtowed and repeated his thanks. However, Dan Zhang halted him,
"It's alright, my friend. We're all the same," Dan said in a calm and reassuring tone, placing a comforting hand on the waiter's shoulder for a brief moment. The waiter's eyes shimmered with tears as he realized how lucky he was today. Remaining on his knees, he inched closer to Dan Zhang and expressed his heartfelt gratitude by shaking his hand vigorously. After enjoying their meal, the two left the restaurant.

In the left-most corner of the restaurant, a mysterious figure sat, donning a large straw hat that concealed his features, adding to his air of intrigue. Meanwhile, Dan Zhang and Nan Zhang strolled through the bustling market, making their way towards an alley. Unease crept over them as they couldn't help but sense the presence of someone tailing closely behind, their footsteps echoing faintly.

Moving cautiously, Dan and Nan ventured further into the alley, their senses on high alert. As they made their way, an unassuming man in ordinary clothing quickly passed by them. Soon, another man silently trod past, while the mysterious figure in the large straw hat deliberately glanced in their direction before continuing on his way. In quick succession, more individuals hurried by until Dan and Nan found themselves encircled by the presence of these unknown figures.
"Hey, looks like you could use a hand," the stranger offered, his gaze directed towards a figure lurking behind Dan, a knowing smile playing on his lips.
"We appreciate the offer, but we'll manage just fine," Nan Fang replied with a forced smile, dripping with sarcasm, rejecting the assistance.
"If we extend our help, you better be willing to accept it, or else..." The stranger's words trailed off as he fixed them with a piercing glare, the glint of his blade suggesting dire consequences if they refused.
Without warning, he unsheathed his sword, the others quickly following suit as they closed in on Dan and Nan. With a sudden shout, the group launched their attack. In response to the impending attack, Nan Fang swiftly unsheathed his blade, revealing a long, silver sword that gleamed in the dim light. With a bone-chilling aura surrounding him, he fought back fiercely and relentlessly, with the demeanor of a powerful mountain tiger, unleashed his swift and assertive strikes, leaving no room for hesitation or restraint. The other thugs in the vicinity recognized his formidable skill and redirected their focus towards him, leaving an opening for Dan Zhang to evade and ascend to the rooftop.
However, the determined thugs pursued him relentlessly, gradually closing in on their target. Sensing the mounting danger, Dan Zhang uttered an incantation, calling upon the power of his sword and preparing to face his pursuers head-on. As the sword flew out of its sheath, it radiated a mesmerizing translucent glow, effortlessly deflecting the onslaught of incoming attacks. Its strikes were precise and decisive, holding off the assailants with remarkable efficiency. However, as Dan Zhang spun around, he caught sight of a distinct seal embroidered on their garments. It was peculiar, yet strangely familiar. At that moment, he realized that these were not ordinary thugs, but men from the notorious Jianqiang Hall. In the face of the relentless pursuit, Dan Zhang whirled around and pushed himself to run even faster, trying to create distance between himself and his pursuers. Nan Fang, observing Dan's predicament, flew ahead to provide assistance, skillfully fending off a few attacks along the way. However, he soon noticed that the enemy's strikes were becoming increasingly brutal and forceful, surpassing the capabilities of ordinary robbers.

Aware that he couldn't exceed his limits, Nan Fang understood the importance of not revealing his fighting pattern to anyone who might recognize it, as it could jeopardize their chances of survival. Determination etched on his face, he pressed forward, striking with increased speed and agility as he effortlessly maneuvered through the sloped roofing. However, one of the thugs wore a smug smirk on his face, executing a sneaky attack from behind, catching Nan Fang off guard.

"Nan Fang!"
Dan called out in alarm as he witnessed the sneak attack. Reacting swiftly, Nan Fang managed to block the strike just in time. However, in the chaos, Dan lost his footing and stumbled, ultimately plunging downwards. Panic gripped his heart as he closed his eyes, preparing for the inevitable impact of a heavy fall.









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