Although the Henderson Family narrowly escaped disaster, they are now heavily restricted. The family's influence within the military, along with their connections to many generals, has drawn suspicion. Following Arthur Jian's advice, Lord Charles dispatched men to construct a checkpoint around Outcast Village, subjecting everyone entering or leaving to strict surveillance.
Eugene Henderson can no longer endure this situation. Victor Fan gave the Hendersons money, but instead of spending it, they converted it into a large amount of gold, which they now store in Outcast Village.
This entire sequence of events unfolded immediately after that massive gamble. Henry Henderson also refuses to use the money; everyone in the Henderson Family is deeply grateful for all Victor Fan has done.
Arthur Jian has cultivated significant power beside Lord Charles, and the Johnson Family's influence has begun to openly and secretly compete with his. Yet, because of his remarkable achievements, Lord Charles follows Arthur Jian's every word.
Victor Fan stays at home, teaching Zane Zhuang every day. Occasionally, he sends Zane to help Eugene Henderson sell goods. Every day, Eugene endures bullying from others; when tempers flare, he gets into disputes, sometimes even brawling in the streets. Zane Zhuang is often the one to step in and calm things down.
"Teacher, I can't stand it anymore. I must go to Cao Capital and rally the other generals. If it comes to it, I'll just..."
"Eugene, don't be hasty. Things will turn around eventually. If you trust me, just stay here for three years."
Victor Fan remains silent, but he knows well that Arthur Jian's tactics will one day run out of steam, forcing Lord Charles into a deeply awkward position. When that time comes, the neighboring Qi and Lu Kingdoms, as well as Jin and Yan to the north, will not be merciful and will not tolerate such a clown scrambling for favor right under their noses.
All that's needed is to wait for that moment. Then, Chu Kingdom can rightfully be the first to march on Cao Kingdom, seize Dingtown, and gain control of the entire region.
"You're still too impatient. Eugene, you should learn from Zane. A true man must be able to endure."