Casius was not just one of the Riverbank Seven. He was the Weathers’ hope to remain one of the elites for years to come. While the Glitters were on a decline due to the family’s incompetent heirs, the Weathers were flourishing. The tragic end of Casius, the heir expected to bring the family to new heights, came as a shock to everyone. It was a shock not only to the Weathers but also to all the mourners. A place to pay respect to Casius was set up. The family, including Johnson, the head of the Weathers, was not in a state to receive the mourners. “Here comes Collier, the deputy chief of the Viper’s Den South River State Branch.” A high-pitched voice boomed. Several hundred people piped down. If Casius had not died, the city’s highlight would be the Viper’s Den South River State Branch fight in Drake Gym. Shockingly, the winners turned out to be Hannah and Collier. Jude, a long-standing deputy chief, was a total wipeout. Not only did Jude lose out on getting the pr
It was Casius’ head. Collier presented Casius’ head at his funeral. There was no telling whether the gesture was an insult or a respect to the Weathers. At least, Casius was able to be put to rest as a whole. He could rest in peace now. Despite knowing that Collier did not mean well, Johnson, the head of the household, fought back his rage and accepted the box. He said, “Open Casius’ coffin and stitch his head back on.” The household staff held the box and carried out the order. Johnson looked back at Collier with a complicated look before taking a deep breath. He uttered, “May I know who killed my son?” “What? Are you planning to avenge him?” Collier scoffed and said curtly, “Your son was in over his head to get involved in the South River State Branch’s internal affairs. He was killed because of it. “Ms. Delmore has a message for you. You and your family better watch your step. “Otherwise, your family will suffer the same fate as Casius.” Collier walked away f
The call connected moments later. Upon learning that Kaze was at the hospital, Snow said apologetically, “I’m sorry, Chairman Lee. I’m in Emerald Bull Palace. “I have a new friend, Ms. Yemen. She’s with Golden Scale Corporation. Her plan today is to make a reel in Emerald Bull Palace. She insisted that I came along.“I couldn’t refuse. I thought a change of scenery would help, so I accepted her invite.” Kaze raised a brow. “Ms. Yemen? Is she Golden Scale Corporation's signed influencer?” The last name and association with the company gave Kaze everything he needed to know about the person. “That’s right. Her name is Cyan. She works for Golden Scale Corporation as an influencer. She went viral lately for her sweet looks.“I’ve been bored lately, so I’ve been looking into this new live streaming sales thing. A friend then introduced me to Ms. Yemen. “Are you coming, Chairman Lee? Emerald Bull Palace is a nice place to walk around.” Snow asked in anticipation. Kaze was hes
Kaze enjoyed the live stream with intrigue for a moment. It would be nice if Cyan stayed chilled and relaxed. He generously gifted Cyan ten virtual stars to show his support.The screen lit up with a dazzling display of animations. “Thank you for your stars, Sponge.” The generous cash tip took Cyan’s attention away from calligraphy, and she beamed. “Sponge has always been my number one supporter. He is always busy with his business to be online, but when he does, he supports me with his generous gifts. “Thank you, Sponge!” Cyan was a major influencer now. Kaze could remember Cyan jumping with joy when he first sent her a virtual star. She would readily do whatever Kaze asked of her, even if it meant performing a sexy dance. Now, Cyan could remain unfazed when rewarded ten virtual stars. At least, Cyan could carry herself in a more graceful manner. Her loud and boisterous behavior would come off tacky. Cyan got up and dragged Snow over to say hello to Sponge. She j
“Mr. Aiden Krad, what brings you to Riverbank?”“You are one of Westeros’ ten best young entrepreneurs. You run a multi-billion-dollar business before hitting 30. Could you share some insights into the investment opportunities you’re exploring in Riverbank?” “Mr. Krad, rumors have it that you’re single. Do you have plans to settle down?” The press was all over the towering man, bombarding him with questions. “Aiden Krad?” Kaze raised a brow. Judging by the name, Aiden must be Aaron’s brother. When Midas King called for a hit on the Hidens, the Hidens turned to the Krads for help. The Krads would only interfere if Snow married Aaron. Due to Kaze’s involvement, Venom escorted May back home. Aaron and Snow’s date ended without any further developments. Later, Aaron was transferred to the South River Strategic Department as commander. Unlike Albert who had a distinguished military record to back him up, Aaron lacked the credibility to command the respect of his subordina
With that in mind, Natalie could care less about Kaze. She said peevishly, “You sure have an attitude for a nobody. Can’t you wait for me by the road? I had to make a U-turn just to get into the hospital.“Don’t you know how expensive the parking at St. Mary’s is? It’s 50 bucks just to stop for a bit. “You don’t look like you can afford St. Mary’s anyway. Jesus.“Don’t just stand there. Get in! “I don’t get why Ms. Frost has a friend like you. You don’t even own a car. I can’t believe I had to drive all the way here for you.” Natalie mumbled disgruntledly, her disdain for Kaze showing. She even powdered her nose before making the drive. Kaze did not look like he was made of money. Natalie had encountered many members of the rich and powerful while working for Cyan. Nothing about Kaze caught her eye. As Kaze opened the door to the front passenger seat, Natalie sulked and uttered, “Be gentle with the seat. It’s made of genuine leather. You can’t afford to pay for the
“Emerald Bull Palace? Oh, got.” Kaze raised a brow and nodded. The area of his apprentice, Juan’s territory. Juan often organized retreats there with his disciples. His persona as a spiritual retreat leader was a deliberate deception.There was nothing meditative about Juan. Juan was greedy, lustful, and shameless. Kaze had a good understanding of Juan’s character during those few days at the hillside villa. Juan had been too busy studying the Oracle to bother Kaze back then. “Ha! You must have known about the place through reels. It’s a must-visit place for influencers. “I doubt you can afford the food in the tourist spot. “But you’re in luck today. Ms. Yemen dug deep into her connections to reserve some great vegan food for Ms. Frost. “Ms. Frost doesn’t seem like the kind to be associated with you.” Natalie went on while driving. She took out all the frustrations she had experienced with Cyan on Kaze.Natalie did not mind hurting Kaze’s feelings since he
Apart from Snow and Cyan, the courtyard was filled with other decked-out influencers. The other women lacked refinement and elegance next to Snow and Cyan. There was a certain vulgarity about them that made Snow frown, and she rarely engaged with them.Cyan, on the other hand, enjoyed the attention of her peers. The other influencers treated her like a star. A line of well-dressed men stood guard near the courtyard wall, their build and attire reflecting an air of authority. Once inside, Natalie dropped the attitude. Different from her annoyance toward Kaze, Natalie carried an ingratiating smile. Natalie went up to Cyan and said, “I have brought Ms. Frost’s bodyguard here, Cyan.” She had overheard the conversation between Cyan and Snow. Since Snow had dismissed her security detail two days ago, Kaze was likely her new hire. Kaze’s physique, though not as impressive as the professional security team Golden Scale Corporation had hired for Cyan, looked the part. The women
Draig’s expression might have darkened but he was able to hold his emotions back. He knew Snow was trying to make him mad. As for Kaze, if even Cyan had no respect for him, he believed Snow would never lower herself to such standards. Draig was confident that he could move Snow with his actions and eventually, he could get under her pants. “What’s the matter with Draig?” Kaze asked Snow after they got into the car. Snow lifted her chin slightly and said, “We were at St. Mary Hospital for a while back then. This guy wanted to protect me 24/7, and on the first day, he tried to hold my hands and said it was love at first sight. “The second day, he tried to get into my room. After I scolded him, he said he grew up in Uleania and people there are open-minded. “I kicked him out, but then he got to Cyan and used her to bring me here. He’s just a shameless guy. I hate people like him.” After going through thick and thin with Kaze, Snow started to show her more vulnerable and fe
Kaze’s frivolous tone left Jude speechless, his eyelids even twitched helplessly. He did not argue and simply nodded without hesitation. “I will transfer my remaining shares to Buffy.” He knew Kaze was not trying to negotiate with him. If it was a suggestion from Kaze, then there would be no space for resistance or negotiations. Kaze nodded and hummed a reply. He did not show any mercy to Jude, the old fox. Jude was on the weaker side at the moment and he was doing everything he could to earn favors. Therefore, Kaze wanted to use the chance to secure some benefits for Buffy. Otherwise, once he was no longer in “power”, Jude would turn on him faster than a bolt of lightning. Kaze continued eating and lecturing Jude and Alfonso. The two old men nodded repeatedly and were as obedient as loyal dogs. After the meal, Kaze rejected Juan’s offer to relax at a hot spring and then went back to Cyan’s gathering. “Oh, Kaze! You’re back. You haven’t eaten anything right?”
Kaze had a wonderful meal at Emerald Bull Palace. The dishes prepared by the chef were amazing. “Branch Leader, with this cup of tea, I propose a toast.” Jude got up with a cup of tea in his hand and proposed a toast. Kaze did not drink alcohol, so the others dared not consume it either. He picked up the cup for a sip and then continued eating while waiting for Jude to speak his true intention. He knew Jude had something in his mind. Jude then bowed and said, “Branch Leader, Alfonso and I are here today at Emerald Bull Palace to discuss how we should apologize to you. “As for other ulterior motives, after yesterday, I have gotten rid of them. From today onward, I will serve you wholeheartedly. “As for Buffy, I have also apologized to her. I used my connection to transfer her mother to the best rehabilitation center in Westeros. Also, from today onward, Buffy will be the head of the Gwakes. She will have the power to decide every affair in the household. “Both my fat
“Branch Leader?!” Juan was also shocked, but he quickly regained his composure and said, “Master! Master Lee is not just my savior, he’s the benefactor of my entire lineage! He practically gave me a second life! He’s like my parents reincarnated!” He looked proud when he described Kaze as if calling a young man master was the proudest thing he could do. Little did others know, Kaze did help Juan expand The Oracle’s Codex of the 16 Cosmic Keys to 32 keys. Juan had been working on deciphering the keys for some time now. The more he studied, the more he realized his knowledge of The Oracle was ridiculous and a bunch of bullshit. Yet even with the bullshit, his lineage was extended for multiple generations. He was excited the more he learned because he knew that the new keys that he got from Kaze would only make his lineage stronger in the future. Alfonso barely reacted to Juan’s words but Jude was shocked and jealous. Something must have happened between Kaze and Juan be
As Kaze expected, Alfonso was indeed afraid of being abandoned after he served his purpose of cleansing the Butterworth Branch. He was afraid that once he completed his task, Kaze would kick him away to calm the raging agents down. If Kaze had such intention, given Alfonso’s current situation, he could not do anything but accept it. Fortunately, Kaze did not have such plans. “Fine. Let’s go to Juan.” Kaze nodded and gestured at them to lead the way. “This way, Branch Leader!” Jude and Alfonso bowed respectfully, then adopted a gesture of invitation before leading the way forward. It was then that Natalie, Cyan’s assistant, who was sent to fetch wine from the car, stepped out and saw the shocking scene, leaving her speechless. Jude and Alfonso were frightened by Draig but the two of them remained prominent figures. Yet she saw them bowing and nodding in front of Kaze, acting like they were his loyal followers. Natalie was arrogant but not stupid. Connecting the s
Kaze shook his head and then walked off alone. “Branch Leader!” “Branch Leader!” As soon as Kaze came out, Jude and Alfonso, who had been waiting for him, came over immediately. The two of them were prominent figures in Riverbank and Butterworth, yet they stood before Kaze like a humble servant, looking scared and cautious. What Cyan and the others did not notice earlier were the faint palm prints on their faces. Though not as obvious after some treatment, a closer look at it would be frightening. Kaze glanced at them and frivolously asked, “What’s the matter? Coming back for revenge so soon? Not happy about what happened last night? I’m alone now and you guys set an ambush for me?” His words left the two old men stunned, their smiles frozen. The air suddenly felt awkward. Jude quickly said, “Branch Leader, please don’t joke with us. I accepted my fate wholeheartedly since last night and I don’t have any complaints, let alone setting up an ambush for you.” “Really?”
Unfortunately, the influencers knew that a man like Draig would never be interested in them, the common ones. “Only a man like Draig is worthy of our love! Some men aren’t even men!” “Yeah. He didn’t even speak a word, what a coward! I don’t even know what Ms. Frost sees in him.” “What a coward. He doesn’t even dare to speak up in front of Draig. Is he even capable of protecting Ms. Frost?” The influencers belittled Kaze once more to flatter Draig. They looked at Kaze with contempt, like he was the slug in a drain. As for Kaze, he simply ignored all of them, refusing to waste his time on some random women. Cyan noticed Draig had stepped down, so she, too, did not want to force Snow. She said, “Stop it, you guys. Since Draig has decided, we should respect his decision.” Her contempt for Kaze was similar to her friends. However, since Snow had chosen Kaze, Cyan felt it was inappropriate to dwell on the topic. Cyan strongly believed Kaze was a troublemaker. She even pl
“Thank you, Draig! If not for you, I’ll be in danger!” Cyan breathed a sigh of relief. Her eyes at Draig showed brazen admiration. She believed only a man like Draig was worthy of her attention. On the other hand, Kaze was not even worthy to be a slave to Draig and he refused to give up, persistently trying to get her attention. Then, Cyan looked at Snow and asked, “Snow, you saw how amazing Draig was. Who else in Riverbank can make the deputy chief of the South River Branch apologize to me with just a few words? Even the Riverbank Seven can’t do it. “For your own safety, I think you should let Draig protect you. Don’t just get some random John Doe from the streets! You are putting yourself at risk!” She had a frivolous glance at Kaze when she spoke to Snow. Draig helped her and saved her face, so she wanted to return the favor by matchmaking him with Snow. Snow’s expression turned ashen. She disliked how Cyan belittled Kaze and aggrandized Draig. “Cyan, I told you Ka
“Yeah!” Rafael grinned. He attentively stepped up and bowed to Jude, saying, “Deputy Chief Gwake, it’s that woman! Her name is Cyan Yemen! She’s a bold one! Given your identity…” “Slap!” Before he could finish, Jude slapped him in the face. “What identity? What identity could a normal old man have? So what if this young lady disrespects me? There are a lot of people in this world who disrespect me, should I go after them one by one? “You, on the other hand, used my name and bullied others, causing me problems and tarnishing my reputation. I just asked you to drive me around, I don’t even know you that well! “You bastard! Apologize to the young lady right now!” Jude slapped Rafael in the face back and forth as he scolded him, even kicking him to the floor. He was indeed an old fox, knowing when to put his dignity away. He disregarded his image and indirectly surrendered. He might look agitated but he was able to cut ties with Rafael with just a few words, hence shiftin