Manipulating Everyone Against Protagonist

"What sort of cooperation does Young Master Yun wish to propose?" Li Hu asked, steadying his breath.

After realizing Yun Che's true identity, his tone shifted to one of deference. The Yun family was a force he couldn't afford to provoke. The evidence in Yun Che's possession alone was proof of the family's vast reach and influence. A mere word from them could erase him from existence.

"Submit to me. Work under my command," Yun Che said casually as he lit a cigarette, his tone calm but authoritative.

Li Hu hesitated for only a second before nodding fervently. "I'm willing."

The choice wasn't difficult—aligning with the Yun family was a far better option than opposing them. He had no illusions; rejecting Yun Che's offer would likely cost him his life.

…

"Ding! Host has successfully subjugated Li Hu, altering the plotline. Reward: 1,000 villain points."

Yun Che smirked at the system notification, unsurprised by how quickly Li Hu caved. In the original story, Li Hu had been depicted as someone who valued his life above all else. Years of living comfortably had long eroded any remnants of the ruthless figure he once was.

"A wise decision," Yun Che remarked coldly as he stood and made his way to the door.

"Cease all current operations immediately. I'll send someone to instruct you on what to do next. And remember—try to outsmart me, and you'll regret it."

As the door closed behind him, Li Hu slumped into his chair, drenched in sweat. He muttered to himself, "I can't tell if this decision will save me or ruin me…"

Li Hu was no fool. He could sense that Yun Che wasn't someone to be trifled with. The young master of the Yun family was as calculating as he was ruthless.

…

"Young Master, why spare his life after the way he disrespected you?" Ah Long asked as they exited the Heaven on Earth club. The bodyguard quickly realized his misstep and added, "Forgive my overstep."

Yun Che glanced at him, amused. "You don't need to tread so carefully."

Ah Long's loyalty was evident, and Yun Che intended to nurture it. "I spared him because he's still useful."

Li Hu was a pawn in a much larger game. He would serve as an obstacle for Ye Chen, the yet-to-appear protagonist. Once his utility was exhausted, Yun Che wouldn't hesitate to eliminate him.

"Let's head home," Yun Che said, his tone relaxed.

For the next few days, Yun Che enjoyed a leisurely routine, spending his time at the family villa, lounging by the pool. But his peace was interrupted when he received an unexpected invitation.

…

"A cocktail party hosted by Wang Shao?" Yun Che read the card and turned to Ah Long. "Who's Wang Shao?"

Ah Long, ever diligent, answered promptly. "Wang Feng is the eldest son of the Wang family, one of the four major families in Linjiang City."

"The Wang family, huh?" Yun Che mused. "This could be interesting. Let's attend."

He saw the gathering as an opportunity to familiarize himself with Linjiang City's elite circles. Making connections now might prove advantageous in his ongoing efforts to counter Ye Chen.

"Understood, young master," Ah Long replied.

…

At the Linjiang Crown Hotel, Yun Che arrived in his luxury car, exuding an understated elegance. However, as he approached the entrance, a security guard intercepted him.

"Sir, the hotel is closed to the public for a private event. Do you have an invitation?" the guard asked politely.

"Naturally," Yun Che replied calmly, handing over the invitation. He wasn't one to create unnecessary drama over minor inconveniences, especially when representing the Yun family.

The guard examined the card, his demeanor shifting instantly. "My apologies, sir. Please, come in."

Yun Che stepped inside, flanked by Ah Long, and ascended to the sixth floor, where the party was in full swing. The grand hall was abuzz with activity, packed with heirs and elites from various influential circles.

"Impressive," Yun Che said with a faint chuckle. He scanned the room, quickly spotting Wang Shao, a man in his early twenties. Dressed impeccably, Wang Shao held a wine glass, moving deftly between groups of dignitaries, exchanging pleasantries.

Ah Long had briefed Yun Che earlier: Wang Shao, as the eldest son, faced fierce competition from his siblings for control of the Wang family. Hosting this party was likely an attempt to solidify alliances and win favor among the city's power players.

Before Yun Che could take a step further, Wang Shao noticed him. His eyes lit up, and he quickly made his way over.

Unlike the others, Wang Shao knew exactly who Yun Che was—the sole heir of the enigmatic Yun family.

**********_***********

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