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Chapter 208
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Rising from the Ashes Chapter 209
As Lauren turned to look at Andrew, she quickly caught the eye of several onlookers. "Yes, there's a small item I'm interested in," Andrew replied with a smile. "Is it a medicinal herb, Andrew?" Francesca asked, and Andrew nodded. "Yes, a Celestial Nymphaea." Francesca thoughtfully explained, "The Celestial Nymphaea is a premium medicinal herb, highly valued by medical experts and serious collectors. Though in Jayrodale, unlike metropolises like Chetvine, there probably won't be many interested bidders—you should get it easily." Just as she finished speaking, the host, Elsie Santana, pulled back a red cloth downstairs, revealing a perfectly preserved Celestial Nymphaea. She announced, "Distinguished guests, tonight's item is quite special. It's not a priceless jewel or a master's artwork, but rather a professionally authenticated medicinal herb that's at least 500 years old—truly a rare find that interested parties shouldn't miss." Despite Elsie's enthusiastic presentation
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"Since our distinguished guests don't seem too interested in this Celestial Nymphaea, let's start the bidding at 750 thousand dollars," Elsie announced with feigned disappointment. Her alluring glance across the VIP suites stirred even the initially uninterested buyers into participating. "780 thousand dollars—consider it a favor for you, Ms. Santana!" someone called out. "825 thousand dollars—we must support Ms. Santana, after all!" … The bidding quickly heated up, reaching 900 thousand dollars. Lauren frowned. "Ms. Santana may have fooled these hormone-driven idiots, but these rising prices aren't doing Dr. Lloyd any favors…" Then, she announced loudly, "1.05 million—let me cool things down a bit." Elsie's eyes lit up. "Ms. Rhodes bids 1.05 million! Any other offers? If not, this premium medicinal herb goes to Ms. Rhodes." The sudden jump in price silenced many bidders. It was not that they could not match Lauren's bid, but rather that they were not interested enou
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 211
As the auction host, Elsie was fully aware that the Celestial Nymphaea could not possibly fetch such a high price. Even so, she still asked symbolically, "12 million dollars! Are there any other bids? If not, the Celestial Nymphaea will go to Mr. Lloyd!" Elsie could barely contain her excitement, knowing well the astronomical figure was unbeatable. Just then, a mocking voice cut through the air, ruining the moment. "I bid 12.3 million!" A wave of gasps and murmurs swept through the crowd. Everyone realized someone deliberately tried to stir up trouble for those in The Vault. In Michael's private suite, Bane let out a sinister laugh. "Serves them right. If I can't have this precious item, that boy won't get it either." Michael sneered. "I figured Finley wouldn't stay quiet for long. With him stirring up trouble, Andrew will have to bleed money if he wants to win this." The curtain to Finley's box was dramatically pulled aside as he revealed himself, challenging Andrew arrog
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Finley laughed out loud. "Mr. Weller, I love how you bid! When it comes to being shameless, you're truly in a league of your own!" Michael chimed in with a booming laugh. "Harvey, you really know your way around an auction. I'm impressed!" In his private box, Harvey's face twisted into a malicious grin as he listened to Finley and Michael's words. His sole purpose was to destroy Andrew, and he did not care if it meant temporarily aligning with Finley. Christina cast a cold glance his way. "Do you really find this amusing?" "Why wouldn't I?" Harvey spat venomously. "After all the times Andrew has messed with me, don't I deserve to make him suffer a little?" Christina shook her head disapprovingly. "I'm not talking about you bidding—it's an auction, after all, and everyone has the right to compete fairly. I'm talking about that pathetic hundred-dollar increase. Isn't that beneath the Weller family's pride?" Harvey shrugged. "I couldn't care less about the Celestial Nymphaea.
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 213
With a 30-million-dollar sale, the auction house's commission alone would be in the millions. It was definitely a windfall. Lauren and Francesca stared at Andrew, clearly struggling to comprehend the astronomical number, and their hearts ached. Lauren muttered, "Dr. Lloyd, 30 million dollars… I think we might've gotten carried away." "I just didn't feel like playing games with these idiots," Andrew said casually. "Better to crush them with one bid and be done with it." His casual tone made Lauren and Francesca grit their teeth in frustration. After all, 30 million dollars was not just a small sum. It was a monumental deal. Anyone else would have spent hours debating about that kind of money, let alone tossing it out so casually. "Spending 30 million on a single item?" Finley laughed mockingly. "Andrew, I can't tell if you're actually stupid or just pretending to be. I was going to keep playing, but after seeing that move, I'll let you enjoy your foolish victory." No one j
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 214
Finley let out a cold snort, dissatisfied with Harvey's show of arrogance that had stolen his thunder. Just as he was about to argue, a commanding voice, though accompanied by a cough, resonated through the room. "As the elder, I'm here to support my son Harvey. I trust everyone will show proper respect." The auction house erupted in commotion, as no one had expected the head of the Weller family, one of Jayrodale's most influential figures, to make a personal appearance. "That decrepit old man Kane actually showed up, huh," Finley muttered under his breath in his private booth, choosing to hold his tongue. While he could provoke Harvey, it was a different story with Kane. After all, as the head of an established family, Kane held the same status as the leader of the Hidden Dragons. Finley knew all too well that Kane, despite his current frail appearance, had been a force to be reckoned with in his younger days. As a junior grandmaster in martial arts, Kane could end him with
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 215
Before Elsie could even finish her sentence, someone spoke from The Vault. "3.75 million and one dollar. My apologies—I was dozing off and forgot to bid. Thank you for your patience!" The statement left all guests momentarily stunned before the room erupted in unprecedented laughter and chaos. "Adding just one dollar? This gentleman is definitely settling an old score!" someone shouted through their laughter. "And who said he wouldn't dare challenge the Weller family? Karma might be late, but it never fails to show up. Harvey's really getting a taste of his own medicine now!" another guest called out. "Brilliant, absolutely brilliant! The Weller family throws their weight around, Kane comes to show off, and Harvey deliberately drove up prices before—now they're getting exactly what they deserve," someone else chimed in. Andrew's unexpected bid shocked not only the spectators but also Michael, Bane, and Finley. "This guy really isn't afraid of death, is he? Even with Kane
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Harvey was overwhelmed with rage, feeling like he was about to lose his mind. He did not expect Andrew to get on his nerves this much. "Andrew, if you've got the guts, let's settle this outside!" Harvey shouted, pointing at The Vault. He thought Andrew was going too far. While everyone else showed respect to the Weller family, the latter deliberately interfered and treated them like nothing. "What about the diamond crown? Or are you admitting defeat like a coward?" Andrew sneered, unmoved by the threat. Harvey's face contorted with fury, and roared, "15 million! I'll destroy you tonight!" He was trapped and had to see the bidding through to the end. Moreover, this crown was meant for his proposal, and backing down would destroy both the Weller family's reputation and any chance with Christina. "15 million and one dollar," Andrew replied coldly. "As I said, I'll add a dollar to whatever you bid." He was never one to let grudges slide, and he intended to make Harvey experi
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Rising from the Ashes Chapter 1128
Andrew waved a hand dismissively. "I don't have time to explain everything to you, and even if I did, you wouldn't understand it anyway. You just need to know this—if you want to save your father, then do exactly what I tell you to." Logan looked uncertain and shot a quick glance at Chantelle as if to ask, "Who is this guy you brought along, and what's with the ego?" Chantelle's face darkened. "Mr. Keller, this man is Andrew Lloyd—he came at Mr. McCormick's recommendation. But honestly, you don't have to take him seriously. Just carry on with your own plans—ignore him." However, Logan shook his head and turned toward Andrew. "Dr. Lloyd, go ahead. Tell me what you need. As long as it'll help my father, I'll make it happen." His respectful tone stunned Chantelle. She wondered if Logan was out of his mind for believing Andrew just like that. Andrew smiled. "My request is actually pretty simple. If I'm going to treat your father, I expect to be compensated. So, I want access to al
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Chantelle could not lash out, so she gritted her teeth and quickly followed behind. Inwardly, she made a mental note to report this arrogant clown to Derek later. To her, Andrew was reckless, so full of hot air, and completely unworthy of trust—nothing but a showboating jester. … Inside the main hall of the Keller residence, the place was packed with people coming and going. A group of specialists and renowned doctors stood gathered, their brows furrowed as they exchanged anxious whispers. One commented, "Mr. Keller Senior's condition is strange—truly bizarre!" "Exactly. His entire face is paralyzed. Even his tongue won't move. He can't swallow even a spoonful of medicine!" Another chimed in, "And the worst part? No one can get within three feet of him. The second anyone tries, they get attacked—some left with cracked skulls, others… well, some didn't make it." "Jeez! That serious? Who would dare try to treat him now? No matter how much the Keller family is offering, it's no
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Chantelle was behind the wheel while Andrew rode along in the passenger seat as they headed out to treat Derek's old friend, George Keller. The atmosphere inside the car was tense, with Chantelle's resting expression as frosty and detached as ever, her face practically carved from ice. Andrew was not the kind of guy to throw warmth at a wall of cold, so he simply stayed quiet, staring out the window at the passing streets. After holding back for a while, Chantelle finally could not resist and let out a mocking laugh. "Mr. Lloyd, what a clever move—create your own mess, then try to get Mr. McCormick to step in and clean it up for you. Don't you think you're playing with fire?" Andrew smiled. "Playing with fire? Nah, I don't see it that way. At this point, I'm pretty much one of Mr. McCormick's trusted men. So if the little guy's getting targeted, doesn't it make perfect sense for the boss to step in and fix it?" Chantelle was momentarily stunned before letting out a scoff. "An
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 1125
Derek said coldly, "These elite families and old-money clans have been feasting off Blumedale like it's their private banquet. They think they can gorge themselves for life, rule without question, and remain unchallenged. "But as long as I'm the one calling the shots in this province, they don't get to do as they please!" Chantelle was startled. She had not expected Andrew to actually ignite Derek's fury. She silently cursed, 'This idiot is already useless on his own, and now even worse, he's using Mr. McCormick as his shield? It's despicable!' Derek turned to Andrew. "Mr. Lloyd, don't worry. Those arrogant bastards—I'll handle them and make sure you get justice. But the reason I brought you here today is something more urgent. There's a matter I need your help with." Andrew lifted a hand and said, "Mr. McCormick, say the word. If I can help, I will." Derek nodded. "Here's the situation—an old friend of mine suddenly found himself fighting for his life. We've brought in nearly
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Andrew said indifferently, "I was just being honest. I don't see how that counts as a joke. And besides, didn't you dress up to please Mr. McCormick's eyes?" Chantelle, who usually stayed cool as ice, immediately felt her temper flare. "You…" Andrew could not be bothered to deal with her. Without waiting for any announcement, he pushed open Derek's office door and swaggered in. "Uncouth brute…" Chantelle gritted her teeth and followed behind him with a scowl. Derek's office, just like his reputation, was simple and understated. Aside from two traditional landscape paintings and a few framed family photos, Andrew did not see a single decorative item inside. "Mr. Lloyd, you're here—please, have a seat!" Derek stood up with a warm smile the moment Andrew walked in. Andrew chuckled. "Mr. McCormick, you're the top official in Gabo Creek Province. If you're personally welcoming me, I might start getting a big head. You go ahead and sit—I'll manage just fine." Derek took his sea
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The red Ferrari sped down from the mountaintop of The Sovereign Residences, tires slicing through the breeze with precision. Aspen sat in the passenger seat, hesitating for a while before finally speaking. "That Xavier… turns out he's Seth's older brother, and even worse—he's a full-blown colonel. Andrew, a colonel in the military is basically a god to most people. You'd better… watch your back." Andrew hit the brakes and stopped right in front of the gated entrance of The Sovereign Residences. He turned with a grin. "Aspen, are you worried about my safety?" Aspen scoffed, gritting her teeth a little. "Worried is a stretch. I'm just giving you a heads-up. And don't act like it's nothing. We haven't even cleaned up the mess with Seth and Mr. Parks." She added, "And now you've provoked the Haywoods' golden boy too? All I can say is—way to add fuel to the fire." Andrew said flatly, "One loser or 100 losers, there's no real difference." At that moment, the two martial arts guard
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 1122
Ethan refused to let it go. He pointed at Andrew, cursing under his breath. "Kid, I'm not gonna stoop to your level. But if I actually wanted to deal with you, you wouldn't even live to see the sunrise tomorrow. You better believe that." Xavier stepped forward and looked down at Andrew with a calm, superior gaze. "I can see you've got some skill. Otherwise, you wouldn't have been able to stand up to my younger brother, Seth. "But here's a word of advice—you've made too many enemies. And your attitude? It's practically begging for trouble. Sooner or later, it'll catch up to you." Andrew raised a brow. "So that scumbag Seth is your little brother, huh? That means you're from the Haywoods." Although Xavier tried maintaining a cool, aloof front, a hint of arrogance still slipped through his mask. "I'm the eldest son of the Haywoods. Go ask anyone on the streets of Blumedale—see if there's a soul who doesn't know the name Xavier Haywood." Andrew shook his head. "Sorry, but I'm not
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 1121
Andrew replied coolly, "Alright, fine. I did do it on purpose. But the only reason I chose the room next to yours was so it'd be easier for you to wake me up in the mornings. Nothing more—so don't go overthinking it." Aspen crossed her arms and let out a cold laugh. "You think I'm buying that?" Andrew shrugged. "Whether you believe it or not doesn't matter. Even if I asked you to warm my bed at night, would you dare say no?" "You…" Aspen was instantly at a loss for words. Her cheeks turned pink as she silently fumed. She was sure that the bastard Andrew was still lusting after her body. Andrew seemed to read her mind and scoffed, "You dumb woman. Don't flatter yourself. Do you really think the only reason I went through the trouble of snatching Serenity Villa from Zachary and picked the room next to yours was just to sleep with you?" As Aspen let out a sarcastic chuckle, Andrew headed downstairs, adding, "I did it because you're weak. If you got yourself killed because of on
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 1120
Aspen ran through every room and checked out the front and back of the house. By the end of it, her legs were sore. Even so, instead of feeling tired, her delicate face was lit up with excitement and wonder. "Hey, this place is hands-down the best, fanciest, and most expensive location I've ever seen in my life!" she said, rubbing her aching calves while smiling up at Andrew. Andrew replied casually, "Judging by that smile you can't wipe off your face, I'm guessing you're falling in love with it?" Aspen pouted. "Saying I'm not would just be lying to myself. Serenity Villa is clearly the kind of estate that money alone can't buy. A place like this… I'd say only the top families in Blumedale are worthy of it." Andrew let out a dismissive snort. "Don't put those so-called Blumedale elites on a pedestal. Serenity Villa isn't some heavenly paradise. Just remember—the view from the top is always the most breathtaking. And Blumedale in Gabo Creek Province? That place barely makes it t
