Chapter 94: Be Courteous When Speaking to My Young Master

The storms in Nanzhou City had completely subsided before Qin Feng's absolute power. Qin Zhigang's "Qin Family Construction" had officially entered bankruptcy liquidation, with all his assets frozen and auctioned to repay debts. Qin Zhigang himself, burdened with massive debts and a ruined reputation, vanished along with his useless son Qin Hao and his second wife from Nanzhou's social circle, their whereabouts unknown and no one caring.

The surname "Qin" in Nanzhou now linked only to one name—the young man who had built a commercial and technological empire far away in a glittering international metropolis.

Yet, when the tree wishes for stillness, the wind does not cease. Qin Feng, this towering giant, had grown too tall, too fast; beneath his shadow that blotted out the sun, there were always some restless or overconfident "vines" attempting to cling—or foolishly, to shake him.

This time, the turmoil did not arise from business competition or past grudges, but from what seemed a routine business reception.

A scion from a powerful overseas family, influential in international capital markets—James Rothschild (under an alias)—arrived at Qin Feng Pharmaceuticals' headquarters, accompanied by his large business delegation, aiming to explore potential cooperation.

For such an international-level partner, Qin Feng extended corresponding courtesies, arranging the highest-level reception. But he himself did not accompany them throughout, only briefly appearing at the initial meeting to express welcome; subsequent detailed negotiations were handled by the group's CEO and specialized teams. This was perfectly acceptable in business etiquette, given Qin Feng's current status and overwhelming schedule.

Yet, this Mr. James, clearly spoiled by his family, was accustomed to being the center of attention wherever he went. Qin Feng's brief appearance and calm, detached demeanor were interpreted by him as "disrespect" and "arrogance."

Especially after touring Qin Feng Pharmaceuticals' astonishing R&D center and hearing technical briefings far beyond current industry standards, James' resentment over being "slighted" mingled with an inexplicable jealousy and possessiveness, beginning to ferment.

He believed the technological potential of Qin Feng Pharmaceuticals should be led by a true "old aristocracy" capital like his own, not held by a "nouveau riche" youth.

During a break in negotiations, in the VIP lounge, James swirled his wine glass and, addressing a senior vice president of Qin Feng Pharmaceuticals, spoke in fluent but oddly accented Chinese with a condescending air:

"Vice President Li, your company's technology is indeed impressive. But such cutting-edge technology requires a broader international platform and deeper… capital foundations to sustain its development. Mr. Qin seems very young; vigor is good, but sometimes experience and connections are beyond monetary value."

He paused, a meaningful smile curling his lips: "Perhaps Mr. Qin should consider bringing in stronger strategic investors—such as our Rothschild Family. We can help him avoid many detours."

This speech, though framed as advice, was filled with implication and pressure.

Vice President Li maintained his professional smile, preparing to respond gently, when the lounge door was gently pushed open.

A figure entered—it was Chen Ming, Qin Feng's assistant, who had just finished other tasks and come to confirm the next agenda. He happened to hear James' final words, laced with hidden barbs.

Chen Ming was one of Qin Feng's earliest core team members—exceptionally capable, and more importantly, fiercely loyal to Qin Feng, bordering on worship. He understood Qin Feng's strength and ambition; he would never allow anyone, in any form, to slight the man he served.

He did not look at Vice President Li; his gaze fixed directly on James. His professional smile remained, but his eyes sharpened instantly, his tone calm yet carrying an unshakable certainty:

"Mr. Rothschild, thank you for your attention and suggestions regarding Qin Feng Pharmaceuticals."

He paused slightly, his voice low but clear to every ear in the room, carrying a cold warning:

"However, regarding Mr. Qin's decisions and the company's strategy, there is no need for you to concern yourself."

"Also, please mind your words," Chen Ming's gaze, like a physical force, settled on James' face, "speak respectfully to my young master."

The four words "my young master" came out naturally, radiating heartfelt protection and reverence.

The lounge fell instantly silent.

James' smile froze. His attendants behind him showed shock and anger. They were used to being treated with reverence wherever they went—how could they endure such an unceremonious warning from an "assistant"? And worse, using the term "young master"—a title steeped in old-fashioned hierarchy!

Vice President Li's heart leapt; he secretly worried for Chen Ming, though he found it satisfying—after all, the man was a direct scion of the Rothschild Family!

James set down his glass, his face darkening, blue eyes flickering with anger: "Are you teaching me?"

Chen Ming showed no fear, remaining calm: "Not at all. Merely reminding Mr. Rothschild: basic respect is the foundation of cooperation. Mr. Qin welcomes cooperation with all parties, but on terms of equality and mutual respect. If even this cannot be achieved…"

He did not finish, but the unspoken words carried more weight than any direct threat.

James stared fixedly at Chen Ming, searching for a trace of fear or flattery—but saw only calmness and unyielding resolve.

The atmosphere grew taut as a drawn bow.

Finally, James took a deep breath and forcibly suppressed his rage. He was no fool—he knew losing his temper here would benefit him nothing. He snorted coldly, turned away from Chen Ming, and tossed at Vice President Li: "It seems your company's hospitality is… unique," then stormed out with his entourage.

The cooperation talks naturally ended there.

Chen Ming watched their retreating backs, his expression still calm, though his eyes grew colder. He turned to Vice President Li and nodded: "Handle the follow-up according to Mr. Qin's prior instructions."

Vice President Li looked at Chen Ming, his heart filled with profound emotion. An assistant—daring to directly defy a Rothschild Family scion! This, of course, stemmed from Chen Ming's personal loyalty and ability—but the deeper reason, everyone understood, was the man standing behind him: the "young master," who possessed absolute power sufficient to ignore any so-called "old aristocracy."

The news reached Qin Feng quickly.

At that moment, Qin Feng was on the construction site of the Future Technology Research Institute, discussing a detail of the laboratory design with Su Jin.

His assistant reported the incident briefly via encrypted phone.

Qin Feng listened, then replied simply: "Understood. Chen Ming did right."

And said no more.

To him, the Rothschild Family's name no longer stirred any emotion. Cooperation? Welcome. No cooperation? Irrelevant. If they thought to pressure him with pedigree and reputation, they were gravely mistaken.

Chen Ming's words—"speak respectfully to my young master"—struck deep within him.

His empire needed to bow to no one.

His authority would not tolerate defiance.

Even if the offender was a century-old financial titan.

This dragon, risen from the East, had unfurled its scales and claws, declaring its existence to the world.

Any disrespect would be paid for.

And Chen Ming, because of this incident, earned greater respect within the inner circle. All knew he was one of Qin Feng's most steadfast enforcers and protectors.

In Qin Feng's ranks, loyalty and capability were both indispensable.