Chapter 122: Then I Shall Not Stand on Ceremony

The Tianxin District project had long been a source of deep anxiety for Wang Qisheng. If he could resolve this issue during his tenure, it would undoubtedly become a significant achievement, one that would profoundly influence his future career. This was precisely why he placed such immense importance on the matter; he had initially hoped that by partnering with Lin Li, everything would proceed with greater stability. Had it been Qin Guosheng in the past, he might have hesitated to commit to such a partnership, but Lin Li’s style was entirely different. It had to be acknowledged that Lin Li, despite his youth, possessed not only a sharp and decisive way of handling affairs but also an exceptionally advanced perspective on key issues.

Once Lin Li took charge of the Tianxin District project, he did not disappoint Wang. The capital was transferred rapidly and prioritized for urgent processing. These actions earned Wang’s admiration and caused him to view the young man with increasing favor. However, no one had anticipated that the Four Great Families would suddenly intervene at such a critical juncture to obstruct the progress. Wang was well aware of the project’s importance, yet even as the official in charge, he felt a degree of trepidation toward these powerful clans.

"What do we do now? If this project cannot proceed, it will be a fatal blow to both of us. If we don’t find a solution quickly, it will be too late," Wang said, his composure finally beginning to fray. He knew he could not allow the situation to deteriorate further.

Lin Li sighed with a touch of helplessness. "The Four Great Families are green with envy. They believe we didn't invite them to profit alongside us, so they are using these tactics to coerce us." He paused, then added, "It would be simple to make them back off: we could just choose to concede a portion of our interests to them."

While it sounded shameless, it was an undeniable reality of the Four Great Families' methods—using intimidation to force others into concessions. This had happened many times before, which was one reason they had maintained their iron grip on the city for so long. Anyone doing business in the region had to surrender a slice of the cake to these local tyrants to avoid harassment. If even a local entity like the Qin Group struggled, the fate of outside enterprises was even bleaker.

"I know how difficult it has been to bring the Tianxin District project to where it is today, and I have seen the costs you have paid," Wang remarked. "But if we concede now, what happens if they renege on their word or demand even more? Must we retreat time and time again?" From Lin Li’s perspective, the families were essentially extorting them, a sentiment Wang shared. However, Wang’s priority remained the project's completion within the deadline, regardless of whether a share was handed over to the families.

The two men were old foxes; their conversation, while seemingly calm, laid bare their respective bottom lines. For Wang, the project could not stop under any circumstances—his career depended on it. For Lin Li, the situation was different. "If the Four Great Families are truly insatiable, it would be a devastating blow to the entire project. Even if I were willing to agree, the Qin Group cannot. We have too many employees to support; if they all lose their jobs, it would be an unspeakable disaster for Jiangcheng."

Wang fell silent for a moment before asking, "Is there any other way? I believe you are cleverer than I give you credit for. You surely won't be held hostage by them so easily. Tell me, what are your plans, and how do you intend to confront them?"

Lin Li had been waiting for this. "The Four Great Families are greedy, and they are targeting the Qin family because someone is goading them from the shadows to unite against us. I have the means to deal with them, though it may seem somewhat ruthless. Since they are the ones who acted in bad faith first, I wanted you to know my intentions. This is not the Qin Group’s preference, but it is necessary for the long-term survival of the Tianxin District project."

At the other end of the line, Wang chuckled. *This brat,* he thought. No wonder he had remained so composed; he had already formulated a plan and simply didn't want to be the villain alone—he was dragging Wang into it as well.

"Since you have a plan, proceed as you see fit," Wang replied. "I can tell you with full responsibility that as the person in charge, I stand with the Qin Group. We have a signed contract, and the Four Great Families' interference is unreasonable. By any measure, they have no standing to do this."

With Wang’s assurance, the pressure on Lin Li vanished. He hung up and immediately summoned Fang Tai. Fang was still busy contacting suppliers. "Brother Lin, we are critically short on cement and sand. We’ve halted construction; if this continues, it will derail our schedule."

Watching Fang’s agitation, Lin Li patted him on the shoulder with a smile. "I know, but it is not yet time for us to panic. Stay calm. Do as I told you: spread the news. We must let the people know exactly who is sabotaging us and preventing the construction. Let them see, in this city of Jiangcheng, who the true menace really is."