Li Ya’s suggestion was immediately met with support from several others. Su Zhantao and Wang Chen were the most ardent proponents; both men currently felt an intense urge to run outside and let out a hearty yell.

“Then let’s go to Drunken Realm; you still owe us three visits, consider this one!” Long Cheng chimed in with a hearty laugh. Li Ya paused slightly, instantly recalling the terms of a previous wager he had lost.

That had been back when Zhang Yang was brought into the police station, the incident originating at the very restaurant they were now discussing, where Xiao Dai and Nannan were working as waitresses and had been bullied, an incident Zhang Yang stumbled upon. Zhang Yang hadn't confronted the bullies directly but had instead called a lawyer.

At that time, Li Ya had bet Su Zhantao and the others that Zhang Yang would definitely call them for help; however, right up until they were taken into the precinct, Zhang Yang never contacted a single one of them, meaning Li Ya naturally lost the bet. The stake for that gamble had been three mandatory visits to Drunken Realm.

Drunken Realm was the premier entertainment venue in Changjing, even a notch above the Brilliant Nightclub they had frequented last time. This superiority wasn't about decor; in terms of sheer interior design, Brilliant was more imposing, being a place of pure, unadulterated luxury.

Drunken Realm prized taste and refinement; its consumption rates were considerably higher than Brilliant’s. A single visit required at least a six-figure sum to walk out comfortably.

Fortunately, none of the men were short on cash, so each of them could enjoy a lavish evening out. With the location settled, everyone rose from their seats.

They were nominally gathered to welcome Cai Zhele, and when an out-of-town friend arrives on one’s home turf, regardless of the nature of the relationship, one is obligated to take them to the finest establishment. Dinner was fine at their own place, but for recreation, only the best would suffice.

Drunken Realm was a bit far from the restaurant, but since they were dining after the usual rush hour, the roads were clear. The group piled into their vehicles without concern for whether they had been drinking.

Fortunately, they weren't excessively reckless, keeping their speed down on the busy main thoroughfares. They arrived safely.

Regardless of the locale, a convoy of luxury cars invariably drew attention, even at a den of extravagance like Drunken Realm. The security guards at Drunken Realm were eyeing the incoming stream of high-end vehicles, muttering under their breaths.

The guards working there were vehicle aficionados, seeing multiple million-yuan cars almost daily. In their usual banter, they often joked that anyone patronizing their establishment generally drove at least a BMW, Audi, or Mercedes; cars costing two or three hundred thousand yuan wouldn't even dare pull up to the entrance.

Even so, they were captivated by the sheer opulence of the approaching convoy; they estimated the value of the cars that had already passed through exceeded ten million. “A Bugatti!” One guard’s eyes suddenly lit up, and his colleagues quickly turned to look.

He reacted fastest, sprinting over to guide Zhang Yang’s Bugatti to a parking spot, leaving the others to watch in frustration, wishing they had been quicker. Company rules stipulated that every arriving vehicle must be greeted, but only one guard could be dispatched at a time.

“They were saying a few days ago that Changjing finally had a Bugatti. I didn’t quite believe it, but now I’m convinced.

This must be it, right?” “Nonsense, of course it is. There aren't many of these cars globally, and this is probably the only one in the country!” “Changjing is truly impressive to have a car like this!” The guards exchanged hushed comments, envy etched onto every face.

Upon seeing Zhang Yang and Mi Xue step out of the Bugatti, their envy intensified; a stunning car and a beautiful woman—this was the lifestyle they had long aspired to. Li Ya was well-acquainted with the manager of Drunken Realm, and a private room was quickly secured.

Entering the room, the eyes of the group immediately brightened. The room wasn't overtly luxurious but possessed undeniable class, feeling intimate and carrying an air of antique elegance.

Suddenly, the sound of a qin filled the air. The room lights slowly brightened.

Beside the room was an alcove, separated only by a sheer white gauze curtain; through it, they could see a graceful woman playing the ancient instrument. The melody sounded like an ancient composition, and from their vantage point, it was clear she was playing a guqin.

The men settled in, a little unnerved by the atmosphere. Soon, drinks were served, and attendants began massaging their shoulders.

Lying back, the entire group felt an extraordinary sense of ease. Drunken Realm’s prices reflected more than just singing and drinking; it was about cultivating a refined experience.

After listening to the music for about twenty minutes, the musician retired, and the manager led them further inside to an even larger room. This space appeared truly modern, featuring a stage for singing, a dance floor, and an array of fine spirits already arranged on the table.

Having been soothed by the qin music, the group’s initial buzz had somewhat cleared, and returning to a more lively setting brought a sharper wave of excitement. Before long, several beautiful women emerged to dance on the floor.

The men could sing karaoke, and no matter the quality of their voices, these dancers would synchronize their movements, ensuring everyone felt completely integrated into the performance. This integration made even the act of singing feel incredibly… evocative.

It was indeed Changjing’s most famous pleasure palace. Although it might not measure up to some of the top clubs in Shanghai later on, it was exceptional for Changjing alone.

Everything here quickly rekindled their interest, and the bottles on the table began to empty rapidly again. Cai Zhele, as the guest of honor, received the most liquor, though Hu Bin managed to intercept a significant portion of it for himself.

Hu Bin had known Long Cheng and the others for a long time, though their relationship was superficial. By showing up willingly this time, he hoped to solidify connections with them.

However, the biggest factor was Su Zhantao and Zhang Yang. The incident at the police station was known throughout the upper echelons, and Hu Bin had only then realized that these seemingly mere young businessmen, whom he usually looked down upon for only caring about commerce, possessed such immense influence.

With the excellent ambiance and fine liquor, it wasn't long before the group was feeling quite tipsy again, and by the end of the night, most of them were nearly inebriated. Cai Zhele suffered the most.

He usually had a high tolerance, capable of downing a full bottle and a half by himself, but tonight he was swaying and his speech was noticeably slurred. Fortunately, everyone else managed to stay functional, and they all made it home safely.

Zhang Yang had also drunk considerably and felt a slight dizziness, but the evening’s drinking had noticeably eased his mind. The recent frustrations stirred up by Zhang Keqin had significantly faded.

The next morning, Zhang Yang was back to his usual self. Mi Xue left for school after breakfast, while Zhang Yang, due to his current research project, had the freedom to remain occupied elsewhere for the time being.

“Young Master, that man surnamed Zhao is here again!” After breakfast, just as Zhang Yang was discussing travel plans with Long Feng, Qu Meilan rushed in from outside to report. “Surnamed Zhao?” Zhang Yang looked up immediately, understanding.

Qu Meilan referred to Secretary Zhao. From Cai Zhele yesterday, Zhang Yang already knew Elder Qi was due to arrive today, expected to depart early that morning.

Guessing the time, Secretary Zhao’s visit now must be about the welcoming arrangements. “Tell him to come in!” Zhang Yang paused his work and spoke softly, then walked into the living room.

A moment later, Qu Meilan brought Zhao Min in. Seeing Zhang Yang, a smile immediately broke across Zhao Min’s face.

“Zhang Yang, the Boss sent me to ask if you have any time today?” After sensing Zhang Yang's unusual depth the last time, Zhao Min had completely shed any hint of disdain, now speaking with formal deference. Calling Zhang Yang 'Boss' in front of him was also a calculated move to build rapport.

He had finally grasped that despite his youth and student status, Zhang Yang was no simple figure; even if Zhang Yang never entered politics, his medical skills alone could amass formidable connections. Such a person, even if he couldn't be brought fully into their circle, must never be offended.

Zhang Yang nodded. “Today is fine.

Is Elder Qi here?” Zhao Min showed a brief flash of surprise, then quickly shook his head. “Elder Qi has already arrived at the airport; the Boss went to meet him personally.

They will proceed to the accommodation later. The Boss specifically asked me to fetch you!” “Since he’s here, I should go over.

It’s better to see him sooner rather than later!” Zhang Yang nodded again. He was preparing to leave for Andian soon, so Elder Qi’s arrival in Changjing was not unwelcome news.

At least he could treat Elder Qi before departing Changjing. Furthermore, he had promised Cai Zhele yesterday that he would do his utmost to treat his great-uncle.

“I brought a car. Shall I drive you?” A hint of relief washed over Zhao Min’s expression.

He had genuinely feared Zhang Yang would act aloof and refuse the invitation, which would have caused him significant trouble. Now that Zhang Yang had readily agreed, his task was essentially complete, and he felt an undeniable easing of tension.

This relief stemmed from his ignorance of the connection between Zhang Yang and Cai Zhele; Zhao Min had investigated Zhang Yang’s friend circle in Changjing thoroughly but hadn't delved into his Shanghai connections. As a mere secretary, his focus on Zhang Yang was primarily because he was the leader’s son, not to investigate every facet of his life.

“No need. I have my own car.

Just lead the way!” Zhang Yang shook his head. Long Cheng emerged at that moment as well.

Taking Long Cheng along, Zhang Yang drove off in the Mercedes sedan. Qu Meilan was left behind at home, pouting slightly in frustration.

Though she was now under Zhang Yang’s employ, she had very little actual time interacting with him. This reality left her deeply dissatisfied, utterly unlike the life she had envisioned.

Zhao Min’s car, an Audi, led the way. It took almost an hour to reach the recuperation center—a state-run facility primarily serving retired cadres.

Behind the main complex of the center were several luxurious villas. Zhao Min had reviewed numerous locations before finally selecting this one.

Its greatest assets were its tranquility and comprehensive facilities, including excellent living conditions in the villas and a dedicated team of professional nurses. After reporting the details to Zhang Keqin, he too expressed satisfaction, and the arrangements for hosting Elder Qi were finalized here.

Zhao Min had put considerable effort into scouting this location, consulting many people and inspecting numerous sites. Having recently arrived in Changjing himself, he lacked the intimate knowledge of someone who had worked there for years.

The two cars pulled up beside one of the rear villas. From the car, Zhang Yang could see several figures standing in the villa's courtyard, including Zhang Keqin and Cai Zhele.

……………… Chapter One Hundred Bonus Update Forty-Seventh, more to follow!