บท 304: Chapter 304: Threatening Governor Grantham
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Han Yezhen had initially asked the fortune teller to read Hardy's fortune as a joke. When the fortune teller mentioned he couldn't read the fortunes of foreigners, she asked curiously, "Why can't foreigners be read?"
The fortune teller smiled and explained, "Metaphysics originated in China, and our knowledge has been developed over centuries by studying Chinese people. This system is specifically tailored to them."
Hardy added, "In reality, it's a form of statistical analysis. Foreigners have different skeletal structures, which makes it challenging to apply these methods to them. Some might understand the art of qi and observe internal aspects, but not everyone possesses that skill."
The fortune teller continued, "Even within China, there are regional differences in appearance and fortune. People from various regions have distinct characteristics."
He then received Han Yezhen's ten dollars and maintained a polite service demeanor.
Suddenly, a commotion erupted in the distance. A group of people in black coats, wielding iron rods and machetes, charged aggressively through the street. They numbered around twenty to thirty, causing nearby vendors and shoppers to panic and scatter.
Vegetable stalls were overturned, scattering turnips and cabbages across the ground. Fish stalls were also destroyed, with fish floundering on the pavement.
The scene quickly escalated into chaos as the group vandalized and looted. Hardy frowned, noting that the behavior resembled the gang activities of later times, revealing that such traditions had deep roots.
As the mob approached the fortune-telling shop, the old fortune teller retreated in fear and pulled the stall closer to protect it.
Han Yezhen, alarmed by the situation, moved closer to Hardy, who quickly pulled her into the safety of the fortune-telling shop. Hardy's bodyguards, positioned strategically around them, were prepared to act.
The tension heightened when another group, dressed in white, emerged from a nearby salted fish shop. They were armed with knives, kitchen knives, and cleavers—about thirty to forty in number, outnumbering the black-coated aggressors.
"Let's get them!" shouted a robust figure among the white-clad group.
"Damn it!" yelled the leader of the black-coated gang.
The two sides clashed violently. Blades swung and blood spilled, turning the street into a grisly battleground.
Despite the violence, such street fights typically resolved quickly due to the intensity of the conflict. The white-clad group, prepared and in greater numbers, soon gained the upper hand, forcing many in black to retreat with injuries.
A few black-clad men stumbled toward the fortune-telling booth, followed by several white-clad pursuers. The bodyguards, concerned about potential interference, drew their guns.
"Bang, bang, bang!" The security captain fired into the air, deliberately missing the combatants but creating a startling noise.
The gunfire immediately drew the attention of everyone around. The black-clad men fell to the ground, and the white-clad group stopped their advance, recognizing the presence of armed individuals. The white-clad figures retreated, their leader signaling a withdrawal.
The nearby vendors and bystanders watched in awe as the remaining combatants limped away. Some injured individuals were left behind, bleeding on the street.
Soon, police whistles were heard from a distance, and patrol officers arrived on the scene. They disregarded the immediate aftermath of the fight and questioned nearby witnesses.
"Where did the shooting happen?" they inquired.
Witnesses pointed to the fortune-telling booth where Hardy and his entourage were.
The patrol officers, upon seeing the foreigners, approached with caution. The lead officer, a young man named Lu Le, addressed Hardy's bodyguard in English, "Did you fire the shots?"
The bodyguard replied, "Yes, we did. We fired to disperse the crowd and protect our boss. No one was injured; we only aimed to scare them off."
The officer nodded, acknowledging the explanation. "I'll write up the report. If there's anything else, please let me know."
Hardy, stepping forward, introduced himself, "I'm Jon Hardy. You can include my name in the report."
The officer's eyes widened with recognition. Hardy's reputation was well-known, and the young officer, Lu Le, was keen to make a favorable impression.
Lu Le saluted, "Hello, Mr. Hardy. I'm sorry for the disturbance. I'll handle the matter here."
"Thank you," Hardy replied. "I've been through worse. My concern is for my girlfriend's safety. By the way, what's your name?"
"Lu Le," the officer responded promptly.
Hardy noted the officer's name. He realized this was a chance to extend a favor. "If you ever need anything, contact Victor. He's a well-known figure."
Lu Le was thrilled. He knew a favor from Hardy could significantly boost his career prospects. He nodded enthusiastically, "Yes, I know Mr. Victor. Thank you for this opportunity."
As Hardy and Han Yezhen left, Hardy contemplated the encounter. He had inadvertently met Lu Le, who might soon rise through the ranks if he capitalized on the opportunity. Hardy was prepared to support Lu Le if he showed initiative.
Back at Victoria Peak Villa, Hardy pondered the situation. He had previously proposed to Governor Grantham that HD Security be permitted to use weapons in Hong Kong, but Grantham had refused. Hardy saw today's events as a chance to revisit this issue.
He called his intelligence chief, John Wick, and requested a detailed report on the gang conflict in Sheung Wan and an overview of the underworld forces in Hong Kong.
He also contacted the president of the Global Times, instructing him to report on the street violence with a focus on the need for improved public safety.
The following day, the Global Times reported extensively on the gang fight, highlighting the escalating violence and urging the government to enhance public security measures.
That afternoon, Victor visited Governor Grantham again. "Mr. Governor, Mr. Hardy witnessed the gang violence in Sheung Wan yesterday and is concerned about Hong Kong's security. Our group has invested hundreds of millions here, and a stable environment is crucial for managing it effectively."
"Last year, there were hundreds of such incidents in Hong Kong. This level of violence is unacceptable for any city."
Victor continued, "Mr. Hardy plans to address this issue with the Prime Minister during his upcoming visit to the UK. He intends to discuss the possibility of authorizing HD Security to carry weapons to ensure the safety of the Hardy Group's investments."
Grantham was taken aback. Hardy's move to involve the Prime Minister indicated serious intent.
Considering Hardy's influence, Grantham realized that if Hardy presented the situation to the Prime Minister, it could have significant repercussions.
After some thought, Grantham acknowledged, "I recall Mr. Hardy's earlier request for HD Security to have the right to use weapons. Given the current situation, it may indeed be necessary. I will discuss this with the Legislative Council to consider authorizing it to enhance the safety of the Hardy Group's investments."
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