Chapter 860: Request for Peace Talks
Chapter 860: Request for Peace Talks
The four patriarchs secretly met, unbeknownst to Patriarch Song, to discuss strategies.
Patriarch Xue was the first to speak, "Patriarchs, please give some advice. What should we do now?"
"Continue siding with the Song Family against the Zhu Family and the Zhang Family, or find another way?"
Patriarch Hu appeared anxious, "If we continue this battle, we will face total annihilation."
"Of course, the Zhu Family and the Zhang Family will also pay a hefty price! At this point, this is quite tricky!"
Patriarch Fang was equally troubled, "Indeed, who would have thought the Zhu Family would suddenly join forces with the Zhang Family against our five-family alliance."
"How about we take the initiative to reconcile with the Zhang Family? As long as the Zhang Family promises not to hold us accountable, it might be wiser to withdraw from this conflict."
Patriarch Fan nodded slightly, "I'm more inclined towards Patriarch Fang's idea; if reconciliation is possible, that would be best."
"If we keep stirring the situation, only death awaits us! The fear is that the Zhang Family won't agree to reconcile, and as for the Zhu Family, we are unsure of their intentions."
Patriarch Xue contemplated for a moment, "Since Patriarch Fang and Patriarch Fan support reconciliation, perhaps we should give it a try."
"If it works out, both sides can shake hands, which wouldn't harm anyone. If it doesn't, then we'll have to fight to the bitter end!"
The other three patriarchs nodded in agreement, expressing no objections.
Patriarch Hu then said, "Even if we opt for reconciliation, we must maintain a tough stance, not letting the Zhang Family think we're weak and fearful, thereby making unreasonable demands."
"Indeed, I agree with Patriarch Hu's perspective," Patriarch Xue nodded in response, "If there are no other opinions, let's discuss and arrange a meeting with the Zhang Family quickly."
The four patriarchs conspired and negotiated, eventually reaching a consensus.
Patriarch Xue took the lead, sending a message to the Zhang Family, hoping for a meeting tonight to discuss ceasefire matters.
When the message reached the Zhang Family, Zhang Dehou and Zhang Jun both displayed a mocking smile.
"With the Zhu Family joining us, those four patriarchs are frightened and seek reconciliation with us,"
Zhang Jun sneered, "Now they realize fear, what were they thinking earlier?"
Zhang Dehou spoke softly, "If reconciliation is possible, that would be ideal; at least our Zhang Family won't suffer major losses."
"However, we still need to consult Chen Xuan's opinion; let's not act impulsively."
"Understood." Zhang Jun nodded solemnly.
He then called Chen Xuan to seek his opinion.
"Since those four patriarchs intend to reconcile, let's meet with them tonight,"
"I'll accompany you, and you'll handle the negotiations."
Chen Xuan instructed gently.
"Alright, I'll follow your lead." Zhang Jun dared not dissent.
That evening, Chen Xuan accompanied Zhang Jun to the meeting location.
In a large private room, they met with the four patriarchs.
"Eldest Young Master Zhang, please sit," Patriarch Xue gestured invitingly.
Zhang Jun nodded slightly and sat with the four patriarchs.
"Speak specifically, what do you wish to discuss inviting me over tonight?" Zhang Jun began softly.
The four patriarchs exchanged glances before Patriarch Xue spoke, "Young Master Zhang, our alliance with the Song Family in this conflict is solely for self-preservation."
"After all, we're uncertain of the Zhang Family's intentions; after dismantling the Song Family, would you target our four families?"
"If we can receive a definite answer from the Zhang Family, promising not to trouble us, we naturally don't wish to be embroiled in this turmoil."
"But if the Zhang Family insists on annexing our family businesses, then confrontation is inevitable!"
Zhang Jun chuckled, "Patriarchs, I can only say you're overthinking, or perhaps swayed by Patriarch Song."
"Initially, I notified you not to get involved. It's just a personal feud between my Zhang Family and the Song Family, unrelated to you. Yet, you ignored my warnings and allied with the Song Family against us."
"That's what led to today's situation!"
Patriarch Xue and the others forced a dry smile, "Regardless, we've come tonight with sincerity to negotiate."
"As long as it's certain you won't target our four families, we will immediately sever ties with the Song Family. Please give us a clear answer, Young Master Zhang!"
Zhang Jun turned to Chen Xuan, seeking consultation through his gaze.
Critical matters like this ultimately required Chen Xuan's decision.
Chen Xuan lit a cigarette, slowly stating, "Negotiation is possible, but…"
"You four patriarchs ignored warnings and colluded with the Song Family, leading to this development; consequences are inevitable for your actions."
"Are you qualified to say this?" Patriarch Xue coldly gazed at Chen Xuan, the other three patriarchs showed displeasure.
Zhang Jun sneered, "Even our Zhang Family heeds Chen Xuan's directives, do you dare say he's unqualified?"
"Then forget negotiations; brace yourselves for annihilation!"
What?
The four patriarchs looked at Chen Xuan in horror, dumbstruck, unable to comprehend…
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