Chapter 4: Showdown (Part 1)

There was no misunderstanding among the brothers, and the elder brother had no good intentions. He originally planned to incite a dispute between you and Li Dan when you arrived in Penghu, intending for him to kill you, so that the elder brother could feign avenging you and then engage in a violent confrontation with him

At this moment, if one were to act timidly, it would only lead him to look down upon you

The heroism of my elder brother truly commands my respect

This ... ... elder brother, it is you who saved the life of this younger brother ... ... just give your orders, elder brother.

Hahaha ... ...

Dear brother, you truly have weathered the storms at sea. After a bowl of ginger soup yesterday, you look remarkably robust today

Hmph, you need not panic. This morning, I could tell that you are a remarkable person. I, Zheng Zhilong, have always admired those with integrity. That Li Dan is so timid in his actions, which has led to his current situation. Should I, Zheng, also behave in such a manner? Since we are to engage in a fierce battle, let us do so without seeking any flimsy excuses. Brother, from now on, follow me honestly, and I guarantee you will return home safely!

Brother, I can see that although you appear to be amiable and casual in your words and actions, giving off a friendly and unassuming demeanor, in reality, you possess your own opinions, are resolute, and decisive. In the future, you will certainly not be an ordinary person.

After a moment's thought, Zhang Wei decided to take a gamble. With a crooked smile, he said: "At first, I thought you were just showing sympathy for me, but over the past few days, it seems that you and the shipowner, Brother Zheng, have some connections. I fear that you might have some use for me, right?"

Zhang Wei pondered: Why is this fellow saying such things? He has sworn brotherhood with me, but what good intentions could he possibly have? He merely wants to have another underling to take the blows for him. I am poor and destitute, with no one to turn to, making me the perfect candidate to be a meat shield. If I were not foolish, I would naturally understand that his current inquiry is merely a test. But how should I respond?

Zhang Wei was taken aback and thought to himself: This person's insight is indeed extraordinary

Since being cast into the Ming and Qing transition, the experiences of these past few days have indeed been extraordinary. First, I was trapped by the seaside, and then I successfully attached myself to Zheng Zhilong, who came to appreciate me. Although Zhilong had not yet established dominance over the four corners, he had already laid a small foundation. He is an exceedingly proud individual, and to be praised by him as someone exceptional is a source of great pride for Zhang Wei

After a round of feigned cordiality with Zheng Zhilong, Zhang Wei, who had originally been trembling with fear, broke out in a cold sweat. He had always thought that Zheng Zhilong merely wanted him to act as a pawn, but now he realized that he was actually being sent to his death. He couldn't help but think to himself: that was close, that was close. If I survive today, I will definitely seek an opportunity in the future to take your life.

One must speak softly, for one should be cautious while walking by the river, as there may be someone hidden in the grass

The two stood for a long time, one in front and the other behind, before Zheng Zhilon finally waved his hand, inviting Zhang Wei to step forward and speak

Brothers, let's not speak such formalities anymore

Hmph, this is beyond his control. Little does he know that before we leave Penghu, I, as the elder brother, have already arranged everything. By the time we disembark in the afternoon, it will be the death date of Li Dan.

Zheng Zhilong stood at the bow of the ship with his hands behind his back, allowing the sea breeze to blow against his thin clothing. Although it was already early summer, the morning sea breeze still made ordinary people shrink back in fear. His demeanor, however, appeared truly bold and unrestrained.

Zheng He did not respond to Zhulong, but merely smiled slightly and stood side by side with Zhang Wei to watch the sunrise

Zhang Wei secretly cursed in his heart: How can you be so arrogant and overbearing? In your eyes, those few people in the rear cabin are already as good as dead. However, even so, you are too impatient and do not consider that others might be willing to fight to the bitter end with you.

Yes, you are right, elder brother.

So, did you disembark?

Elder brother has made all the arrangements, and I, the younger brother, truly feel ashamed. It was I who misunderstood elder brother.

Although Zhang Wei's personality may seem comical and naive on the surface, he himself believes that he possesses no particular talents. Aside from his fondness for playing games, there is hardly anything noteworthy about him

With a smile, Zhang Wei stepped forward a few paces to stand alongside Zheng Zhilong and said, "Elder brother, you overstate my qualities. I have indeed been stubborn since childhood, but as for other matters, they are beyond my humble capacity to comment on."

Hmph, the first mate of this ship, m.hetushu.com, is entirely on my side, so what is there to fear? If it weren't for the fact that most of the crew on board are loyal to me, do you think Li Dan is a fool? He would have dealt with us long ago.

Zhang Wei was not talkative; he merely stood behind him, shivering from the cold, yet he did not retreat a single step.

I must thank you, elder brother. If it were not for your care, I would not know when I would be able to stand on this deck.

Zheng Zhilong was taken aback for a moment, then laughed heartily: "Brother, you are indeed straightforward. Very well, as your elder brother, I will not hold back. This time on land, we shall confront that scoundrel Li Dan head-on."

Zhang Wei, who had not slept a wink all night, stood on the deck in the early morning, admiring the sunrise over the sea. To outsiders, he appeared remarkably vigorous, completely unlike someone recovering from seasickness

The two stood side by side for half a day, and then Zhilong finally spoke: "Brother, do you know why I wish to swear brotherhood with you?"