Chapter 132: I’m Counting on You, Uncle Lin! - It’s the Cyber Age—Still Playing a Traditional Villain?

### Chapter 132: I’m Counting on You, Uncle Lin! Jiang Cheng Cheng, though apprehensive and fearful, was not the only one burdened by concerns. At that moment, Shen Qin was equally anxious, but her worries stemmed from the secrets she harbored. Now that she had smoothly secured a position within the "Serpent's Ring," she considered herself to have found a foothold. The problem, however, lay in the brief encounter she had with Xu Shi during her initial interview. At the time, she wasn’t in the best state, but when Xu Shi assisted her, a peculiar sensation flashed through her mind, alerting her to the fact that he was undoubtedly trying to use his ability to influence her. Fortunately, she was somewhat prepared for this. The lesson learned from her brother had provided her with useful information, such as Xu Shi's ability likely involving some form of mental manipulation. Mental interference isn't entirely unresolvable before it's fully executed. At least, while she was on guard, with some effort, she could render it ineffective. Despite this, she didn't act rashly. Instead, she played along, allowing Xu Shi’s ability to progress within her, which would make him lower his guard. At the right moment, this could serve as a critical advantage. Her real worry, however, was whether Xu Shi had discovered her dual abilities. Amidst the urgency of the situation, her response was somewhat hasty, and given Xu Shi’s sharp mind, it was possible he might have noticed. Ideally, she could have implemented measures to stop natural recovery, allowing her to bypass detection perfectly. However, this would have also affected her "Blood Ignition" ability, as she couldn't yet clearly separate the two powers. If she had taken that route, she might not have even passed the interview... Moreover, for a family head to deliver a subpar performance would only arouse more suspicion. But with the medication she had taken, it should be explainable. She consoled herself internally that she'd confirm it when the opportunity arose. Still, enduring such a challenging daily existence weighed heavily on her. “Deputy Leader Nan, stay focused.” Just then, Xia Wu You’s reminder sounded by her ear. “...I’m sorry, Leader Xia. I didn’t rest well last night.” Shen Qin snapped back to reality, quickly offering an apologetic smile. “That’s no excuse for your distraction.” Xia Wu You showed no mercy, her tone carrying a hint of reprimand. “Even though it’s merely security for the board meeting, you still need to be attentive.” “Yes.” Shen Qin accepted the correction humbly, straightening her posture urgently. Yet, inside, she felt quite annoyed. Truth be told, being appointed as "Deputy Leader of Field Operations Team Three" following a successful interview was decent, neither particularly good nor bad. On one hand, the job wasn’t extremely demanding; the field team only needed to be on standby without tasks. Moreover, having some authority in her hands, accessing the core areas wasn't as challenging as imagined. The problem was that Team Three's leader was Xia Wu You, someone she had no fondness for, making it insufferable to work under her orders. She wasn’t sure if Xu Shi’s placement was intentional or not, but logically, it shouldn’t have been. The deputy leader position for Team Three had always been vacant; it wasn’t a trap specifically dug for her. Moreover, Shen Qin was certain her identity hadn’t been compromised; there was no way Xu Shi could know she was Shen He’s sister, right? If suspicions or special attention existed, it would only be due to her being the "Forgotten Ones'" leader. Patience, patience. Today’s task was simple—security for the board meeting, just a matter of guarding the doorway. Meanwhile, inside the meeting room, discussions were fervently underway. As a member of the board, Xu Shi was enthusiastically mapping out the company's forthcoming plans, covering topics like the integration and accommodation of the "Forgotten Ones," profits from the "Excess Plan," and future developmental paths in these areas, among other things. “So, while we embark on Phase Two with 'Prism,' I’d also like to see us, 'Serpent's Ring,' independently develop some derivative products.” He stated earnestly, “Director Jiang has already laid some groundwork on this. I will also assign a dedicated project team to handle it.” No one voiced objections. Everyone knew this Director Xu was now wholly different from how he was a few months ago. He was undeniably authoritative within the company, and besides, his plan wasn’t a bad one. Applauding and agreeing was an easy choice. In truth, most shareholders couldn’t care less about actual operations, content with dividends. For everything else, they simply aligned with the prevailing winds. Agreeing by default to everything was the safest bet. “However, despite the expansion of the engineering department, we still face a manpower shortage.” Xu Shi continued, articulating smoothly, “Therefore, for this standalone project, Director Jiang cannot handle it alone.” “So, after discussions, I hope to assign this responsibility to someone else.” “Uncle Lin, can you take charge?” He turned towards Lin Wen Hua, asking sincerely. “...Me?” Lin Wen Hua was momentarily stunned, taking a bit to react, “I... I think I’m better off not?” Not only was he surprised, but others too were doubting their ears. Everyone knew Xu Shi and Lin Wen Hua were opposing forces, and Lin Wen Hua’s influence had waned after several setbacks. In this critical moment, Xu Shi’s choice to entrust such a significant project to him was puzzling. Intuitively, many speculated on a balancing act. Was it to temper Jiang Cheng Cheng's growing influence? But that didn’t add up; she was Xu Shi’s own protégé, so the logic didn't fit... Yet, the meeting's assignments seemed to gradually push her out from her original team. The perplexity was such that, alas, the leaders’ motives remained inscrutable. Lin Wen Hua, however, was sharp-eyed enough to understand Xu Shi's intention. Was he being deliberately thrown into the fire to roast? In truth, he had no advantage in this role. But brandishing a title of overall responsibility, he couldn’t shirk blame if things went awry... Oh, this young rascal, ostensibly elevating him, but likely hoping for his slip-up. Yet, upon deeper reflection, refusing was not an option. His standing in the company had become precarious, and without this venture, his downfall was imminent anyway. Tsk... “Since it’s like this, I pledge to fulfill the task and not let Director Xu down.” After careful consideration, Lin Wen Hua relented. “Thank you, Uncle Lin.” Xu Shi nodded with a polite smile, sneaking a glance at Su Lin. I knew it. (End of Chapter)