“Put the word out that Darcy is my best friend. Dallas Moneylender has to go through me if they want to have a say in the city.” Miru called her subordinate in front of everybody. She wanted to send a message across the board. The tone of the communication was cocky and aggressive. Since taking over Melrose, Miru had been on a different level. She carried weight when issuing an order. Her behavior was much like an underground kingpin. Darcy’s family would fear Miru if the latter were not close to Darcy. Soon, Lefteria Group spread Miru’s message to the underworld. All eyes were on Dallas Moneylender for a response. Lefteria Group was the Lilyrose and Melrose underworld kingpin.On the other hand, Dallas Moneylender’s roots ran deep in organized crime. Sparks were bound to fly between both parties. Despite the long wait, Dallas Moneylender made no comment.Members of Dallas Moneylender kept to themselves throughout. Their passive reaction raised many eyebrows.
“The injuries are recent, so you have a choice whether to get surgery or try a more conventional treatment,” Sam said in a serious tone. Albert replied, “They are Mr. Vinlands’ most trusted bodyguards, so things can get heated very fast.“We hope you’ll be the attending surgeon to ensure they will meet full recovery, Professor Whiteman. The surgery fee is not a problem for us.” Sam shook his head peevishly. “No one can guarantee if patients will bounce back 100%.” Nevertheless, Sam expressed that he would try his best. The surgery fee was not even mentioned in the conversation. “We have confidence in you, Professor Whiteman.” Albert praised Sam with a smile before asking, “I heard that you are staying in Lilyrose for a while to treat a patient by the name of Hector Quint.” “Wow. I didn’t think the news would travel so far and wide.” Sam was briefly surprised, but he responded with a nod. “You’re right.” “Mr. Vinland has a message for you.” Albert added with a smile
“Uh, Professor Whiteman, what’s the meaning of this?” The expression on Albert’s face froze. Albert was confused as his heartfelt speech did not sway Sam. Sam scoffed. “Don’t you know that Kaze invited me to Lilyrose? I know him better than you.” Albert wanted to sink into the floor at that very moment. His face was flushed as if someone had struck him. He had put a lot of effort into the act. Yet, he was made a clown instead. Sam said that Kaze invited him to Lilyrose. Albert was shocked. It was hard to believe that a loser son-in-law could convince Sam to make a trip to Lilyrose. “Just leave. I won’t treat these patients. Kaze made them break their legs for a reason. I’m sure they deserved it.” Sam waved his arm in annoyance. He did not want any more interactions with Albert. “Just because you know Kaze, it doesn’t give you the right to twist the facts and refuse treatment.” Albert scoffed with a grimace. “National hero and orthopedic authority, my ass. You a
“Kaze?” Albert scowled at the sight of Kaze. “You whipped Ms. Vinland, seriously injuring her. How dare you show your face.” He waved his arm. Several fighters ditched Sam and the students to encircle Kaze. Without looking at these people, Kaze lamented, “It’s a shame that Yume isn’t dead yet.” Kaze held back when striking Yume. His blows were not fatal. He only said what he said to get on Albert’s nerves. He had met Albert at the Vinlands’ party. Albert stood behind Hudson, carrying himself with kindness and courtesy. Albert finally revealed his true colors. He was a reflection of Hudson’s nature. Sure enough, Albert went ballistic. He practically raised Yume. He was devoted to the young lady. He could not believe Kaze humiliated Yume in public repeatedly. Albert wanted to bury Kaze alive. He pointed at Kaze angrily and said viciously, “So you did intend to kill Ms. Vinland, Kaze. You have angered Mr. Vinland. No one can save you now.“Take him down. He will
After hurling Albert to the side, Kaze whisked Sam away. The medical students also went to Horizon Mirror Mansion. The director of the orthopedic hospital was also a student of Sam’s. He added a few hospital beds after a call from his mentor. When Albert and his group arrived at the hospital, they occupied four gurneys. Now, the number had gone up to nine. Hudson was still unaware of what transpired at the hospital. He was on the phone with Dane from Dallas Moneylender. “You did not respond to Lefteria Group’s statement, Mr. Rich. That’s unlike you.” Hudson pressed unhappy, the phone in hand. Hudson sent Dallas Moneylender on Darcy’s family’s tail. He hid behind Dallas Moneylender to ensure Darcy’s family faced consequences. Hudson could just stay behind the scenes without lifting a finger. That was Hudson’s favorite approach. Besides, he knew that Dallas Moneylender was happy to do his bidding. Dane could not resist the temptation of getting two billion dol
Miru pulled a long face. Her presence was needed at Lefteria Group. She had to take precautions for any possible dynamic shifts in the underworld. It was then Miru received another call from her men. “What? Dallas Moneylender is the arsonist?” She turned ashen. Dallas Moneylender kept their head down and made no response to her bold statement. Here she thought Dallas Moneylender had backed down, and that was the end of the matter. To her dismay, Dallas Moneylender burned several of Lefteria Group’s executives alive. It appeared they responded with a vengeance. “Miru, Dallas Moneylender openly admitted that they caused the fire. They demand three billion dollars by tomorrow morning. The additional one billion dollars is the punishment for Lefteria Group. “If they don’t see the money, they will make sure Darcy’s family gets it. “One more thing. Dallas Moneylender knows that Darcy’s family is neighbors with the chief commander. “It will not deter Dallas Moneylender
Shane was efficient at his work. He had located Dallas Moneylender’s base when Kaze got into the car. “Mr. Lee, the location of Dallas Moneylender’s offices is no secret because no one dares to cross them. Their offices all across the country are semi-open to the public.” An illegal money-lending organization was detrimental to financial institutions. Despite its illicit nature of business, Dallas Moneylender had some public presence. Their arrogance showed. After the call, Shane sent Kaze detailed information on the members working in the Lilyrose office of Dallas Moneylender. As the business operation was semi-open, Shane could get ahold of the data rather easily. “This is good. They all deserve the death penalty,” Kaze went through the findings and said with a smile. The smile did not reach his eyes, though. Sitting beside Kaze, Draco knew that he was out for blood tonight. Soon, they arrived at Dallas Moneylender’s Lilyrose office. The business name was hung
Dane was not in a hurry to make Kaze return the money. He wanted to see Kaze on his knees first. He believed after Miru’s men were burnt to death, the Quints were frightened and they quickly gathered the money for Kaze to pay him back. “Hudson Vinland sent you?” Kaze did not kneel. He looked around to see if Hudson was around. If the man was around, he would deal with him altogether. “You can stop looking. Mr. Vinland isn’t here.” Dane smiled and added, “And, mind your words. Mr. Vinland isn’t powerful enough to order me around. We are just working together. He pointed out a bright idea for Dallas Moneylender, so I simply returned the favor by standing up for his daughter. That’s it.” Kaze was slightly disappointed that Hudson was not around. He asked, “A bright idea? So, Hudson gave you the idea of extorting money from the companies who got the funding?” It now seemed like Hudson was the mastermind. He was the one who instigated Dallas Moneylender to go after the Qui
Dwight approached with a smile. He looked at Edmund earnestly. “I am Dwight McCorney. I have heard good things about you. I finally got to meet the man of the hour. “It’s an honor to meet you, Mr. Witterson.” Dwight was starstruck. Edmund was embarrassed by Dwight’s behavior. He could not believe that Dwight was a member of the Viper’s Den. Nevertheless, Dwight seemed genuine in expressing his thrill. Edmund became curious about him. He turned around to look at Kaze, who was the polar opposite of Dwight. Kaze stood there, holding his ground. He stood up to greet Edmund and nothing else. He appeared to be refined, unlike Dwight, who was brash. Dwight had no idea that his behavior had upset Edmund. Edmund looked at Dwight in disdain. However, Dwight was a member of the Viper’s Den. It was best for Edmund to keep his comments to himself. Without a word, Edmund stared at the pair. Ryan stepped in to smooth things over. “What are you doing? We have a guest here.
Since Kaze would not change these people’s minds, he was better off doing what he wanted to do. “This vase must be valuable. I got to give it to Mr. Witterson. A display in the living room is worth so much.” Dwight had never seen so much luxury in one room. He had been to the museum, but the displays were nothing like he had ever seen before. The rich had the means to splurge. “Do you think this is pure gold?” Dwight turned to a gold statue. The design was to die for. The purity of color made it hard to doubt its authenticity. “I’m not too sure, but I guess most of the ornaments here are real.”Kaze watched as Dwight gasped in awe. Nevertheless, his behavior would clear any suspicion on Kaze. It could be a good thing. “I knew Mr. Witterson was rich. His businesses are doing well. “But I didn’t expect this sort of lifestyle. The gold must be worth a million dollars. “If I were this wealthy, I would not spend it on decoration.” Dwight rambled on, his eyes stuck t
“I’m not familiar with the area. We’ll have to look around,” Dwight said behind the wheel. He looked for restaurants while driving. It was early, and many restaurants were not open for business. They circled the block and finally uncovered a small breakfast bar. They ordered some food, filled their bellies, and got back into the car. “Mr. Witterson said that he wouldn’t meet you. Why does he want to see you now?” Dwight was curious. Something must have happened last night. Otherwise, Edmund would not suddenly grant an audience to Kaze. “I don’t know. I had some drinks last night, and now he probably made time.” Kaze felt better after breakfast. He did not think much of the situation. Things would carry on as planned regardless of what the Wittersons or the Siegfrieds had to say.This was exactly what Kaze hoped for. Dwight remained in the dark. He drove to the city’s most exclusive area for the rich. It was all greenery in this part of town. The road was wider, an
After a brief hesitation, Kaze followed Rosie. The room turned out to be Rosie’s. Though not a big room, it was crammed with all kinds of junk. The place looked cluttered. Rosie approached the vanity table and grabbed the comb to comb her hair. She turned to look at Kaze. “You said a lot of stuff last night. Do you remember any of it?” Rosie spoke like they had been friends for years. It was just small talk. “What did I say? I don’t really remember. You made a lovely drink, but man, it really kicked in.” Kaze put a cigarette to his lips, but he did not light it. Instead, he spotted a chair to sit down on. “Well, it’s pointless to talk about it if you can’t remember.” Rosie was pleased to hear that. At least, Kaze had no idea that she had gotten him drunk. “Don’t leave me hanging.” Kaze looked peeved. “Are you off the clock?” Kaze asked. “Yes. I work odd hours. It’s time for me to sleep now.” Rosie stared at Kaze. “I shouldn’t keep you from resting.”
“Can you give me something for the pain?” Clemont had a low tolerance for pain. Standing on the stairway, Morris heard his voice and sighed. Clemont could do no good in his eyes. “Keep an eye on him. He’s not allowed to leave the house for the time being.” Morris believed the incident was more than meets the eye. Yet, Clemont was tricked into going to Absolute Zero and starting shit. There was no telling whether the Wittersons or someone else was behind it. Morris let out a sigh and returned to the study. He sent the butler to the storage room to fetch a few valuable antiques. These items were collected years ago, and they cost a fortune. Morris’ intention was to be on good terms with the Wittersons. There was no need to be at war with them. He had to do it for the interest of the Viper’s Den and his family. Morris was all about looking at the bigger picture. Otherwise, he would not have put up with all the bullshit before. Edmund would not let him off the ho
“Are you trying to kill your son?” Clara intervened. “You’re ruining him by spoiling him. If you want things to continue as they were, you can kiss him goodbye forever,” Morris said. Clara was lost for words. She knew better, but she just could not stop herself. Clemont had her heart. Clara could not stand to see him hurt. She was distressed. However, she knew that Morris would not get over the matter without beating Clemont up. She had to step in. “Hit him!” Morris was too old to do anything laborious. However, the kid would not go anywhere in life without a good beating. Despite starting trouble, he sure was arrogant to admit that he was wrong. “I see the errors of my ways.” Clemont apologized in time to avoid the punishment. He managed to escape all repercussions by doing so. Plus, his mother would plead on his behalf. The whole thing would usually get brushed aside. Though it was more serious in this instance, Clemont still believed that Morris would not hur
Morris was in his study, wiping a plaque of commandments that was covered in dust. Due to his commitment to the Viper’s Den, he had neglected his family for years and left his son in his wife’s care. Morris regretted doing so. Unaware of the impending danger, Clemont enjoyed drinks with his friends. They were having fun, playing drinking games. Losing the game, Clemont downed a glass of liquor. Things could get far and exciting in a game. It was then that the door swung open. Clemont’s driver entered the room. “Young Master Siegfried, the master is waiting for you at home,” the driver said, noting the complexity of the situation. The only thing on his mind was to take Clemont away. Tipsy from the drinks, Clemont waved his arm. “Let him wait. What’s the rush to get home?” Clemont’s friends were shocked. Nothing scared Clemont like his father. However, Clemont toughened up for once. “Young Master Siegfried, why don’t you call it a night?” “Yeah. I’m sur
“What’s that supposed to mean? When have I ever made a mistake?” Morris heard nothing of that sort. It could only mean that his people had done nothing wrong. However, Edmund could not possibly get aggressive on the phone. Something must have happened, and he simply had no idea. Morris felt unsettled like something big was about to happen. “You seem to be lax when managing your people. You don’t seem to know what goes on around your house.“Is your age getting to you? Is that why you can’t handle most of the work? If you can’t get your own house in order, how will you ever manage the Viper’s Den Westeros Branch?” Edmund called to say his piece. It was his way to make Morris step down. Though it was likely that Morris would resign, Edmund could at least make things unpleasant for him. “What’s that supposed to mean?” Morris was completely in the dark, but Edmund must hold some secret to act so cocky. Despite his troubled feelings, Morris kept his cool and calmly aske
Since it was a rare opportunity, Edmund had to settle the score with them properly. He knew opportunities like this were hard to come by so he had to seize them well. “I understand. I will take care of the guest,” Rosie said. She was glad that her information was useful to her boss. After Edmund hung up the phone, Rosie then looked at the unconscious Kaze. “You are indeed more useful than I thought. Hardly anyone has ever managed to impress Edmund.” She did not feel sorry for Kaze, believing that everything happened as it was meant to. She knew that to climb higher, she had to please her superior. With the Wittersons on the rise, now was the perfect time for her to pledge her loyalty to Edmund. When the Wittersons truly took over the Westeros Branch, she would become one of the most powerful people in the city, second only to them. She was looking forward to that day. Since Kaze was fast asleep and no arrangements could be made, Rosie went out to call her men and