The woman appeared to be in her thirties, radiating an air of intellect and elegance.
Her presence immediately captured everyone's attention.
Upon seeing her, a flicker of surprise crossed Duan Chen's eyes.
She, too, clearly recognized Duan Chen.
Without preamble, she began to reprimand him.
Of course, this reprimand lacked any real force; anyone could tell she was shielding her own kin.
"Duan Chen, that's enough. And you all," she continued, addressing the others, "since you've come to my Su City, you will abide by its rules. Otherwise, not a single one of you will remain; you will go back to where you came from."
Hearing the woman's words, both Long Yi and Su Baiyi turned pale.
"I... but this isn't our fault at all," she stammered anxiously, standing up to argue.
However, before she could finish, the woman interrupted her.
"I don't care whose fault it is. All I know is that you are causing trouble on my territory, which is a slap in my face."
"This is you being unfair to both sides," Su Baiyi trembled with anger.
Yet, the woman's demeanor was even more arrogant than Duan Chen's had been earlier.
She cast a cold glance at Su Baiyi.
"If you truly wish to be dealt with unfairly, you can continue speaking."
Only then did Duan Chen speak, his face breaking into a warm smile as he greeted her.
"Long time no see, Sister Mingyan."
This woman's name was Mingyan.
She was the president of the Su City branch.
Previously, she had gone to the capital for about half a year of specialized training.
This training was exclusive to the presidents and vice-presidents of each city's branch.
However, due to Su City's unique circumstances, it only had a president and had not yet appointed a vice-president.
This resulted in Mingyan staying there until now before she could return.
Mingyan turned to face Duan Chen, who was standing outside the door, her expression softening slightly.
She also returned his greeting.
"Long time no see, Duan Chen. I'm very sorry I couldn't return sooner."
"Please accept my condolences."
Duan Chen's expression became imperceptibly somber for a moment before he forced a smile and shook his head.
"It's alright. It's all in the past."
Mingyan's personality, much like her attire, carried a certain seriousness. Upon hearing his words, she nodded.
"It's good that you can think that way. If you need any help, don't hesitate to ask me."
"Also, please come to my office. I have some matters to discuss with you."
With that, she cast another cold glance at the young people sitting or standing there, a clear threat in her eyes.
"Xiao Li, first, arrange these new agents in their respective positions. If they are caught slacking off again, their performance bonuses will be deducted," Mingyan instructed without mercy.
"Yes, President," Xiao Li replied, her spirit invigorated.
Duan Chen ambled along, following Mingyan to her office.
The office had also undergone renovations, but the overall layout and interior decoration were largely unchanged from what he had seen before.
If there was any difference, it was that everything appeared much newer.
"What's up?" Duan Chen, feeling no need for formality, sank onto the sofa, crossed his legs, and looked at the primly seated Mingyan.
Mingyan pondered for a moment before getting straight to business.
Her personality had always been like this.
Duan Chen was long accustomed to it.
"Regarding the reconstruction of the Su City branch, there are some issues I wish to discuss with you."
After speaking, Mingyan observed Duan Chen's expression.
"Don't rush to refuse. I know you've always been unwilling to get involved in these matters, which is why you've been content to be an agent in my branch.
However, it's clear that your talents extend beyond this. When Old Zhang was here, he was reluctant to expose you.
But as you can see, you've already caught the attention of certain individuals. Even if you're not exposed, you can't proceed entirely as you wish."
Duan Chen felt like refusing, but her words struck a chord. He suppressed his instinct and continued to listen.
To be frank, he had never been particularly inclined to participate in such matters.
This was not only due to the teachings of Old Zhang and Gao Tiankai but also because he himself was not one to seek trouble.
However, with Su City just beginning its reconstruction, Mingyan likely didn't have many capable people at her disposal.
Otherwise, she wouldn't have rushed back. The specialized training in the capital was a rare opportunity.
The training itself was one thing, but the resources awarded during the training were another.
Therefore, he didn't refuse immediately, merely lifting his chin and waiting for Mingyan to continue.
Seeing his attitude, Mingyan knew there was hope. Her expression softened considerably as she spoke on.
"Therefore, I hope you will proactively help me share the burden of the branch's affairs.
The individuals transferred from the capital this time are meant for you to practice with. You can no longer fight alone. I already heard about the drawbacks of solo combat in the capital."
Duan Chen frowned slightly.
He had already heard from Bai Ye that he would likely take on a role as an instructor or teacher for those young people in the future.
However, hearing it directly from Mingyan felt somewhat irksome.
Why would he have to look after brats?
And a group of brats who were clearly going to be particularly troublesome.
"I wonder how furious these brats would be if they knew they were just practice fodder," he said with a half-smile.
Mingyan sighed, knowing he was unwilling to take on more burdens at this time.
But...
Recalling what a certain man had told her, she suppressed her temper and continued to persuade him gently.
"These are not the most crucial matters," she said softly.
"Duan Chen, I hope you will help me."
Mingyan's gentle tone startled Duan Chen.
"I know this conflicts with Old Zhang's past teachings," Mingyan appealed to his emotions and reason.
"But you should also understand the current situation."
"I truly feel exhausted," Mingyan supported her head, shaking it with a hint of distress.
Duan Chen remained silent for a long moment, his thoughts swirling.
Finally, with a sigh of resignation, he said,
"I understand, Sister Mingyan. Tell me what you need my help with first."
If Mingyan had commanded him forcefully, he would have absolutely refused without the slightest hesitation. But now, seeing Mingyan show weakness, it was difficult for him to decline.
Mingyan's lips curved slightly.