Chen Liguo is contacted by Lin Xiang, who seeks his alliance due to his past strategic skills, referencing a previous collaboration. Chen refuses, pointing out that his family already provides support and that he is capable of winning the wars independently. He explains his family's urgent need to expand their assets, due to the Rewrite Wars making previous wealth meaningless, and offers his help that does not impede his family interests. The chapter ends with Chen having other guests arrive, hinting at further negotiations and activities.