Chapter 30: Leaving the Processing Plant
Although Mrs. Gao's expression and words were sincere, Yang Xu suspected she still harbored doubts. After all, old Deng had lived a long time thanks to the "dragon bones," and wouldn't be easily persuaded. Her submissive behavior seemed more a result of intimidation.
Shaking his head, Yang Xu continued to play the "righteous knight": "Since you've agreed to help, this factory should cease operations. And these blind workers deserve safe passage home. I won't pursue your past wrongdoings."
His words, spoken in a deep, resonant voice, echoed through the factory. Mrs. Gao glanced around, a hidden look in her eyes. Seeing the blind workers, trembling but with hopeful expressions, she felt a pang of reluctance. Yet, under Yang Xu's imposing presence, she forced a smile and agreed.
Daredevil, who had been vomiting blood, struggled to his feet. Weakly, he offered, "I'll help evacuate the workers."
"No problem," Yang Xu replied, then, noting Daredevil's condition, asked, "Can you even stand?"
Daredevil wiped blood from his mouth. "It's just a scratch," he insisted.
Yang Xu, impressed, said, "Then get to it."
Daredevil staggered towards the workers.
…
After the workers had left, Daredevil spat out more blood. He dragged himself to Yang Xu. "Sir, please burn down this factory. Otherwise, it will become another evildoer's base."
He glanced at Mrs. Gao, who, though livid, dared not object. Yang Xu nodded in agreement.
Relief washed over Daredevil. "That's great…"
He collapsed, unconscious.
Yang Xu caught him, lifting him like a chicken. He turned to Mrs. Gao, who seemed to be shaking with anger. "He makes a good point, don't you think?"
Forcing a smile, Mrs. Gao replied, "I agree. I'll arrange it."
Yang Xu waved her off. Soon, the factory was filled with flammable chemicals. Mrs. Gao threw a torch onto the explosives. A dull explosion followed, igniting the surroundings. Flames rapidly engulfed the factory, turning night into day and attracting attention.
A strange thought crossed Yang Xu's mind: "Can white powder burn? If not, Hell's Kitchen will be in for a surprise!"
He dismissed the idea. "Forget it. I have the 'Horse Charm'; it'll protect me. Let them get high. It's none of my business."
He handed Mrs. Gao a card with his number. "Call me if you have any news."
Mrs. Gao took the card, trembling. Yang Xu, carrying the unconscious Daredevil, left.
…
On the chaotic streets, Yang Xu sensed Daredevil's fading vitality. "If I didn't need a breakthrough, I wouldn't care about your life. You're lucky."
A horse-shaped sigil lit up in his eyes. White light enveloped Daredevil, then was withdrawn, preventing full healing. Daredevil's condition improved, though. His breathing and color returned.
Soon, Daredevil stirred. "Where am I?"
"You're injured. I'm taking you to a hospital. Don't refuse; you're dying."
Daredevil paused. "No, I can't go to the hospital! Take me to a friend, an excellent doctor."
Though this suited Yang Xu's plans, he feigned reluctance. "Are you sure? If your friend isn't skilled enough…"
Daredevil was firm. "This is my decision."
Yang Xu played along. "Then I won't argue. I hope your friend is as good as you say."
Daredevil gave an address.
Yang Xu, already familiar with it, feigned surprise. "What luck! I know that place!"
Then, he warned, "Bite down hard."
Before Daredevil could respond, Yang Xu slammed his foot down, creating a crater in the street. A violent gust of wind filled Daredevil's mouth, silencing his scream. His whimpers echoed through the night.