Chapter 70: Killing Intent on New Year's Eve

Chapter 70: Killing Intent on New Year's Eve

As Mu Feng and his group enjoyed their meal on the third floor of the Wang family's grand six-story restaurant, the streets outside buzzed with festivities. Lanterns glowed warmly, and the streets were alive with laughter and cheer. However, the tranquil scene was about to be shattered.

Inside the Restaurant

Mu Feng raised his cup, smiling at Mu Li and Mu Cang. "We're all family. The past is behind us. From now on, let's move forward together as brothers."

The group clinked their cups, a newfound camaraderie forming over laughter and shared stories. Plates of steaming dishes filled the table, their aromas blending into a delightful feast. The warmth of the moment was palpable, as though nothing could disrupt it.

"Feng-ge," Mu Li began cautiously, "I heard rumors that you were injured on the battlefield, that your meridians were shattered. But now, seeing your strength, I wonder—were the rumors true?"

Mu Feng waved his hand dismissively. "It's true that I was injured, but I recovered. My cultivation naturally followed."

Mu Li and the others nodded, curiosity satisfied. Soon, the conversation shifted to future plans.

"After the New Year, it'll be time for the Cangling Martial Academy's entrance exams. Feng-ge, will you join us there?" Mu Li asked.

Mu Feng shook his head. "No. I'll be going to the Royal Academy next year. My sister and fiancée are waiting for me there."

The mention of the Royal Academy brought a mix of awe and envy to the table. For most, it was an unattainable dream.

"Feng-ge, the Royal Academy is far beyond our reach," Mu Cang said wistfully.

"If you want to go, I can cover your tuition," Mu Feng offered casually, his confidence underscoring the weight of his words.

The group exchanged glances, their admiration for Mu Feng growing. Mu Li smiled but declined politely. "We appreciate the offer, but we're already at the upper age limit for the Royal Academy."

Mu Feng nodded. "In that case, take these." He produced a stack of glowing talismans from his storage ring. "Twelve first-rank inscription talismans, each capable of unleashing the power of a Purple Palace Realm third-layer expert. Consider them gifts to keep you safe."

"Talismans!" the group exclaimed, stunned by the rare and valuable items.

Mu Li accepted the talismans, his hands trembling slightly. "Feng-ge, thank you. We'll never forget this kindness."

Mu Feng smiled. "It's nothing. Bring me quality weapon materials later, and I'll craft you some spirit weapons. You're my brothers, and Mu family disciples should never be underestimated."

Unseen Threat

Unbeknownst to the group, a shadowy figure had been watching them since they entered the restaurant. Now, this figure stood on the street outside, speaking hurriedly to a gang of thirty armed men. At the head of the group was a burly man clad in a black martial robe, a fierce glint in his eyes. He carried a gleaming saber across his shoulder.

This was Bao Ye, a notorious enforcer of the Yellow Tiger Gang.

"Those punks who dared to beat us are on the third floor," said one of the injured gang members, his voice slurring due to missing teeth.

Bao Ye's expression darkened. "So, they're the ones who humiliated my men and demanded an apology from my boss? Let's see if they have the guts to back up their arrogance."

He waved his hand, and his men followed him into the restaurant, their weapons clanging ominously.

The Confrontation

Mu Feng and his group were mid-toast when the commotion began. Heavy footsteps echoed up the stairwell, and the restaurant's atmosphere shifted as fear spread among the other patrons.

The doors to the third floor burst open, and Bao Ye's gang stormed in, their presence suffocating. The burly leader scanned the room until his eyes settled on Mu Feng's table.

"Which one of you dared to lay a hand on my brothers and demand an apology from my boss?" Bao Ye growled.

Mu Feng put down his cup, his gaze calm but steely. He stood and faced Bao Ye directly. "That would be me. And you are?"

"Bao Ye of the Yellow Tiger Gang!" the man bellowed, his voice like thunder.

Mu Feng chuckled, his demeanor unfazed. "Bao Ye? Never heard of you. But I suppose you're here to apologize on behalf of your men?"

Bao Ye's face twisted with rage. "Apologize? You little brat, do you know who you're messing with?"

Mu Feng stepped forward, his presence suddenly oppressive. "I don't care who you are. Your men were out of line, and they paid the price. If you've come to seek revenge, I'll make sure the Yellow Tiger Gang ceases to exist."

Bao Ye roared with laughter. "Big words from a brat! Brothers, show them what happens when you cross us!"

At his command, the gang drew their weapons and charged.

The Fight

Mu Feng turned to his companions. "Take care of the small fry. Leave the leader to me."

Mu Kuang and Bai Ziyue responded with eager grins, springing into action. Their combined attacks were swift and devastating. Talismans flashed as Mu Li and Mu Cang joined the fray, their newfound gifts evening the odds.

Meanwhile, Bao Ye lunged at Mu Feng with a swing of his massive saber. The blade cut through the air with lethal intent, but Mu Feng sidestepped effortlessly, retaliating with a precise palm strike that sent Bao Ye reeling.

"You'll need more than brute force to defeat me," Mu Feng said, his tone icy.

Bao Ye roared, his aura flaring as he unleashed a flurry of attacks. But Mu Feng danced through the onslaught, his movements a blend of speed and precision. With each exchange, Bao Ye grew more frustrated.

Finally, Mu Feng struck with a golden energy-infused punch, shattering Bao Ye's saber and sending him crashing into the wall.

Aftermath

The battle was over in minutes. Bao Ye's gang lay scattered across the floor, groaning in pain. Bao Ye himself was barely conscious, pinned to the wall by Mu Feng's unyielding glare.

"Take your men and leave," Mu Feng commanded. "And tell your boss this: the Mu family is not to be trifled with."

Defeated, Bao Ye scrambled to his feet and limped away, dragging his men with him.

As silence returned to the restaurant, the patrons erupted into cheers. Mu Feng and his companions returned to their seats, their bond stronger than ever.

"Now," Mu Feng said, raising his cup once more, "where were we?"