In the spacious and brightly lit banquet hall, over a dozen people had already arrived sparsely.
Men and women of different statuses gathered, some acquainted, others not. They formed small groups, chatting in low voices while discreetly observing those around them.
Many were filled with curiosity about this evening's gathering, eager to see who the person was that dared to openly confront the formidable Han family.
They also wondered which factions would participate.
As time ticked by, more people began to enter through the hall's entrance.
"Look, isn't that the boss of Zifeng Enterprise?"
"The boss of Jinyun Coal Industry is here too!"
"And the boss of Haixing Coking Plant!"
"Good heavens, these are all influential figures in the coal industry of our Jin Province! I never expected them all to show up. I'm getting more and more excited about tonight's meeting!"
"Who isn't? If that mysterious backer can truly unite all of us, perhaps we might stand a chance against the Han family!"
"The Han family's actions over the years have already sparked public outrage throughout the industry. It's high time someone stepped up to curb their arrogance!"
As more people entered the hall, the atmosphere grew increasingly lively.
Just then, footsteps were heard at the entrance, and a young man and woman walked in.
The two bore a slight resemblance. The man was slightly older, composed and steady, with an outstanding aura of someone in authority.
The woman, on the other hand, was radiant and beautiful, with a well-proportioned figure and a pair of bright, lively eyes scanning the surroundings.
"Whoa, aren't those the Lin siblings from Xishan Coal Industry?"
"They've come too!"
Upon recognizing the distinguished man and woman, many in the hall were surprised. Several people even stood up to greet the Lin siblings, clearly knowing them.
Being in the same industry, they were all more or less aware of each other, and some maintained quite good relationships privately.
The arrival of the Lin siblings immediately created a small surge of excitement.
Xishan Coal Industry was a top name in the entire coal sector. With such a powerful force participating, it would instill more confidence in many for this gathering.
However, this was merely the beginning.
As it neared eight o'clock, a group of people entered through the hall's entrance.
Leading them was a man of about 1.85 meters, broad-shouldered, with his hair slicked back and wearing a trench coat. He held a cigar in his mouth, exuding an imposing presence, like a true gang leader.
The four bodyguards accompanying him had sharp, watchful eyes, making it difficult for people to meet their gaze.
The grand entrance of this group once again drew everyone's attention. They looked at these guests with considerable fanfare with uncertain eyes, wondering who they were.
Could this be the mysterious big boss who had gathered everyone here?
It wasn't until the Lin siblings stood up, smiled, and embraced the newcomer, exclaiming, "Manager Shan, your entourage is as impressive as ever! Bringing four bodyguards when you go out!"
"Haha, it's a habit!"
Shan Xiongjin's voice was booming. His sharp eyes swept across the hall, and he remarked, "Quite a crowd! More than I expected!"
"Indeed. Please, have a seat!"
The Lin siblings warmly invited them.
At this point, some people sitting nearby finally understood. From the surname "Shan," they recognized the newcomer.
He was none other than the renowned general manager of Jin'an Group in Yunzhou—Shan Xiongjin!
A general manager of a leading enterprise in Jin Province's coal industry, his fame was not inferior to Xishan Coal Industry. The reason many present didn't recognize him was that he was from Yunzhou.
However, his reputation preceded him. Many had heard of Shan Xiongjin of Jin'an Group, and they were surprised to see him here tonight.
A wave of excited chatter ensued, and many faces grew more animated. Besides Xishan Coal Industry, another powerful enterprise had joined their ranks.
This further bolstered their confidence in confronting the Han family.
Just as everyone was immersed in the thought of Jin'an Group joining their cause, figures suddenly appeared at the hall's entrance, immediately capturing everyone's gaze.
It was an elderly man in a wheelchair. He looked very old, with a head full of silver hair, gaunt and bony, his face a tapestry of intricate wrinkles.
Behind him followed two burly bodyguards; one pushed the wheelchair, while the other's eyes warily scanned the surroundings.
As soon as the man in the wheelchair appeared, the Lin siblings and Shan Xiongjin, who had been chatting enthusiastically, immediately stood up and strode towards the elder.
"Uncle Wang, you've arrived!"
"Hello, Uncle Wang!"
Both the Lin siblings and Shan Xiongjin showed great respect for the old man.
"Haha, hello to you all!"
"It's old me who arrived late, making everyone wait so long. I apologize."
Wang Bailin said with a smile.
As soon as he spoke, many recognized him. He was the most respected elder in the industry—Wang Bailin, the general manager of Taishan Enterprise in Shuozhou!
A venerable senior whom many in the industry deeply admired. Now in his seventies, he was also disabled, having lost both his legs. Yet, he remained diligently at the forefront, serving as the general manager of Taishan Enterprise, his spirit undeterred by his physical condition.
He had dedicated his life to his family, becoming a benchmark in the industry and an object of admiration for countless individuals.
To think that such a legendary elder would be present tonight! The atmosphere in the hall instantly reached a fever pitch.
Many people rushed forward, vying to greet Wang Bailin.
Wang Bailin shook hands with everyone, offering a gentle smile.
Finally, he was invited to sit at the table with the Lin siblings and Shan Xiongjin.
Just as the clock struck eight, four figures walked out onto the stage in the hall.
The foremost among them was a young man in his early twenties. He stood tall at 1.85 meters, his posture as straight as a javelin.
His face was handsome and heroic, exuding an extraordinary aura. He possessed a composure and maturity beyond his years, making him instantly memorable.
Behind him stood three individuals, each with their hands clasped behind their backs, standing at attention. They were as upright and solid as three great mountains, providing a profound sense of security.
"Good evening, everyone!"
The young man announced into the microphone, his voice immediately quieting the bustling hall. All eyes focused on the stage.
Some recognized Qin Chuan, while many others had never seen him before, their gazes filled with curiosity.
"Allow me to introduce myself first!"
"My name is Qin Chuan, and I am the initiator of tonight's gathering."
Qin Chuan introduced himself into the microphone on stage.