The Tianlong Family's grand banquet had ended, but the ripples of that night still spread through the family's inner circles. Some had chosen to submit, recognizing Su Chen's absolute control, while others harbored silent resentment, waiting for an opportunity to reclaim their influence.
Seated in his private study within the Tianlong estate, Su Chen reviewed reports detailing the reactions of various family branches. Wang Jun stood nearby, calmly summarizing the situation.
"The majority have acknowledged your leadership, but a few remain resistant. Tianlong Wei, for example, has been rallying his faction behind the scenes, though he hasn't made any open moves yet."
Su Chen smirked. "That old fox won't be able to sit still for long. What about Tianlong Zhen?"
"The elder remains neutral," Wang Jun replied. "Though he disapproves of your methods, he understands the family needs strong leadership. As long as you don't make reckless decisions, he won't interfere."
Su Chen nodded. "Then the real threat is the ones who are too afraid to move openly. Keep a close watch on them. If they overstep, they'll regret it."
Just as Wang Jun was about to respond, a knock came at the door. A moment later, Ye Meng entered, her expression serious.
"There's trouble," she said. "One of our business branches in the north has been attacked. The perpetrators left behind a message—'The Tianlong Dynasty Will Fall.'"
Su Chen's expression darkened. "It seems the hidden rats are finally showing themselves."
A Declaration of War
Within an hour, Su Chen and his closest allies had gathered in the family's main conference hall. A large screen displayed live footage of the destroyed business headquarters—a clear message from those who opposed Su Chen's rule.
Wang Jun adjusted his glasses. "Based on the style of attack and the message left behind, it's highly likely that Tianlong Wei is involved. However, he wouldn't act alone. There may be outside forces supporting him."
Ye Meng crossed her arms. "Are we dealing with another family, or is this an external power trying to take advantage of our internal conflict?"
Su Chen's eyes gleamed coldly. "It doesn't matter. If they think they can challenge me, I'll make an example out of them."
Standing up, he glanced at Wang Jun. "Prepare our forces. I want to know who is backing this move, and I want their operations dismantled."
Wang Jun nodded. "I'll handle it personally."
Ye Meng smirked. "And what about the family members involved?"
Su Chen chuckled. "They will either submit—or they will be erased."
The battle for control had only just begun.