Despite the overwhelming tension, Hong Feiqiu knew there was no room for retreat. Today's gamble was no longer just about his reputation—it was tied to the dignity of the city lord, Shu Sheng.
"Why wouldn't I dare? Do you think your Qingshan Gang's gamblers are truly unbeatable? Today, I'll show you the skills of the Luohong Gang," Hong Feiqiu declared, fixing his gaze on Song Lei. "Who are you sending up?"
Song Lei chuckled darkly. "You really dare to step forward? I wonder who gave you such audacity. Fine, since you're ready to lose completely, Xiao Long, you're up."
A towering man with a bare chest stepped out from behind Song Lei. His massive build rivaled Song Lei's, but his aura was leagues weaker—merely at the Tenth Layer of the Tempered Body Stage. Even so, his formidable strength could probably challenge an average First Layer Meridian Opening martial artist.
"Hmph, who in your Luohong Gang dares to gamble against me? The loser must sever an arm. Does anyone have the guts to face me?"
Xiao Long sneered as he grabbed a square table from the side, setting down a set of gambling tools with three dice inside. His bull-like eyes scanned the room, filled with menace and disdain.
"It's Xiao Long! His gambling skills are easily among the top three in Poyang City. Only the city lord's disciple Zhao Huan and the Skull Gang's vice leader Zhou Longyun can match him. Who can the Luohong Gang even send to compete?"
"The Luohong Gang is doomed. Xiao Long not only has exceptional gambling skills but is also a ruthless, bloodthirsty killer. Who would dare to bet their arm against him?"
"Let's see how this plays out. Maybe Hong Feiqiu will have to step up himself."
The crowd murmured in awe and trepidation. Xiao Long's arrogance was infamous, but he had the skills to back it up. His gambling prowess was virtually unmatched, and few dared to challenge him.
Hong Feiqiu's gaze swept over his subordinates. "Is there truly no one among you willing to face him?"
His question was met with averted eyes. Many of his men had some gambling skill, but none could rival Xiao Long. And with the stakes involving the loss of an arm, none dared to step forward. A severed arm meant their future as gamblers—and their livelihoods—would be over.
The innkeeper, Hong Jinbao, stepped forward and said, "Boss, let me try."
Hong Feiqiu shook his head. "Jinbao, your gambling skills are mediocre. Don't get involved. If no one else steps up, I'll handle it myself. It's been a while since I've played with dice, but I'll give it a shot."
"Boss, you can't take the risk yourself! Should I call for the Fat Monk and the others?" Hong Jinbao's face turned pale. Although most of the Luohong Gang's key players were present, some—including two vice leaders and several elders—were back at the headquarters.
"They won't help; none of them are skilled enough at gambling."
Hong Feiqiu's face turned bitter as he waved dismissively, then glanced at Shu Sheng with an apologetic smile.
Shu Sheng sighed inwardly, a faint trace of frustration and doubt flashing across his face.
Am I really doing the right thing?
Meanwhile, Song Lei and Zhou Longqi, along with the others from the Qingshan Gang, wore smirks of disdain, clearly relishing the impending spectacle.
Hong Feiqiu took a deep breath and turned to face Xiao Long, preparing to step forward. He knew that Xiao Long's challenge—essentially a challenge from the Qingshan Gang—had to be accepted. Even if gambling wasn't the Luohong Gang's strength, even if Hong Feiqiu's own skills were insufficient, he couldn't back down.
This wasn't just about defending his gang's honor but also about upholding Shu Sheng's reputation. For that, he was willing to pit his weaknesses against his opponent's strengths.
"I'll represent the Luohong Gang," came a calm but unexpected voice from the back.
The room fell silent as heads turned to see who had spoken.