Chapter 6: The Grand Invitation
Xiao Feng received an unexpected invitation from a classmate named Chen Wei. The event was a grand party, hosted by one of the wealthiest families in the city. Although Xiao Feng preferred to focus on his cultivation, he decided to attend. It was a perfect opportunity to gather information about his enemies and potential allies.When Xiao Feng arrived at the lavish mansion, he immediately felt the contrast between his humble attire and the luxurious surroundings. The attendees, dressed in designer clothes and adorned with expensive accessories, cast curious glances at him. Ignoring the stares, Xiao Feng walked confidently into the hall, where he was greeted by Chen Wei."Xiao Feng, glad you could make it!" Chen Wei exclaimed, giving him a friendly pat on the back.Xiao Feng nodded with a polite smile. "Thanks for inviting me."As they chatted, a familiar, disdainful voice interrupted them. "Well, well, look who decided to show up. The pauper himself."Xiao Feng turned to see Jiang Nan, the boy who had killed the original Xiao Feng. Jiang Nan's eyes were filled with contempt as he sized up Xiao Feng."Didn't think you'd have the guts to come here," Jiang Nan sneered. "You're out of your league, poor boy."Before Xiao Feng could respond, Jiang Nan's girlfriend, Liu Mei, joined in the mockery. "Why are you even here? This isn't a place for beggars."Their taunts drew the attention of the other guests, who watched the unfolding drama with interest. Xiao Feng remained calm, refusing to be provoked."He's here as my guest," Chen Wei interjected firmly. "And I won't tolerate any disrespect towards him."Jiang Nan scoffed. "Stay out of this, Chen Wei. This is between me and him."Just as tensions were rising, a voice rang out from the entrance. "What's going on here?"Everyone turned to see Ji Xinyi, the girl Xiao Feng had saved from gangsters, walking gracefully into the hall. Her presence commanded attention, and the crowd parted to let her through. She approached Xiao Feng with a warm smile."Xiao Feng, I'm glad you came," Ji Xinyi said politely. "Thank you again for saving me."Her words stunned the onlookers, especially Jiang Nan and Liu Mei. Ji Xinyi, the city's most beautiful and influential girl, was showing gratitude to Xiao Feng."Miss Jiang, it's nothing," Xiao Feng replied modestly.Ji Xinyi turned to the crowd, her gaze sharp. "Xiao Feng is my benefactor. Anyone who disrespects him disrespects me."The room fell silent. Jiang Nan and Liu Mei's faces turned pale with shock and embarrassment. They had never expected Ji Xinyi to defend Xiao Feng so openly."Please, everyone, enjoy the party," Ji Xinyi continued. "Let's not let this minor misunderstanding ruin the evening."As the guests reluctantly resumed their conversations, another familiar voice spoke up. "I, too, owe Xiao Feng a debt of gratitude."The crowd turned to see Zhang Rui, the granddaughter of Zhang Wei, the old man Xiao Feng had saved recently. Zhang Rui, also known for her beauty and status, walked up to Xiao Feng with a grateful smile."Xiao Feng is my Zhang Family's Benefactor ," Zhang Rui said, addressing the crowd. "Who dares to Insult him is the Enemy of Zhang Family."The combined support of Ji Xinyi and Zhang Rui left the onlookers in awe. The room buzzed with whispers as people reevaluated their opinions of Xiao Feng. Jiang Nan and Liu Mei, now thoroughly humiliated, slunk away into the background."Thank you both," Xiao Feng said quietly to Ji Xinyi and Zhang Rui. "I appreciate your support."Ji Xinyi smiled. "It's the least we can do after what you've done for us."Zhang Rui nodded in agreement. "You're a good person, Xiao Feng. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise."As the night continued, Xiao Feng couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. Not only had he stood up to Jiang Nan and Liu Mei, but he had also gained the favor of two influential families. It was a small but significant step in his journey of revenge and cultivation.Leaving the party, Xiao Feng's mind was filled with thoughts of the future. He knew that the road ahead would be challenging, but with allies like Ji Xinyi and Zhang Rui, he was more determined than ever to achieve his goals.