"Then dealing with the remaining side would be effortless since they'd be standing alone," Andrew concluded. Dylan nodded in agreement. "Mr. Lloyd's absolutely right. We could see Atlas's intentions from his all-out attack on South City—he wanted to eliminate obstacles quickly. Unfortunately for him, Griffin got taken out by Mr. Lloyd, which forced him to abort his plans." "You killed Griffin, Mr. Lloyd?" Natasha asked in shock, studying Andrew up and down with undisguised curiosity. This pretty boy had impressive guts and eloquence, and his intelligence was extraordinary, but Dylan was suggesting he had also taken down Griffin, Atlas' right-hand man. Could he be exceptional in combat as well? "Taking him down was pure luck, nothing worth making a fuss about," Andrew replied calmly. Natasha batted her eyes, smiling seductively. "Don't be so modest, Mr. Lloyd. Even if it was luck, you're still a true hero. I've been a widow for so long, and I've never met such a capable you
Faced with the eager gazes of the two crime lords, Andrew simply smiled and stopped talking, picking up his tea instead. Dylan caught on quickly and slapped his forehead. He said, "Mr. Lloyd has already helped us so much with both his wisdom and courage, while Madam Vostokoff and I have been doing nothing!" Turning to Natasha, he added, "Madam Vostokoff, Mr. Lloyd's assistance comes with certain conditions." "As it should," Natasha nodded. She no longer dared to underestimate Andrew, knowing that capable people always had their own terms. Deliberately pulling down her neckline to reveal more cleavage, Natasha smiled flirtatiously at Andrew. "Mr. Lloyd, you're a young man in your prime. Usually, men want either money or women. I wonder if my beauty catches your eye. If you're interested, I'd be willing to warm your bed tonight." Dylan watched with envy. Natasha was a stunning widow with both power and influence. When he saw Natasha offering herself to Andrew, he could not h
"Not to mention, Atlas has many other skilled fighters under his command," Natasha added. Andrew's eyes gleamed as he replied, "That's why a direct confrontation with Northern District won't work—you need to play it smart. History shows that even the most impenetrable walls aren't broken from the outside, but rather crumble from within." "Mr. Lloyd, are you suggesting we target Northern District's internal personnel?" Dylan asked with furrowed brows. Andrew smiled. "More specifically, you need to target the relationship between Atlas and Finley. They're the two pillars of the Northern District—together, you can't beat them. But if they turn against each other and start fighting among themselves, wouldn't that be your opportunity?" Natasha pouted. "Mr. Lloyd, sowing discord between them might sound simple, but it's impossible. Atlas relies heavily on Finley, and though Finley is arrogant, he respects Atlas. Getting them to turn against each other won't be easy!" "Of course, yo
Andrew shook his head. "Madam Vostokoff, despite what you say, I'd like to confirm this myself. I have my own principles, and if my plan ends up harming innocent people, I wouldn't be able to live with that." Natasha chuckled. "I understand you're kind-hearted, Mr. Lloyd. Actually, after your insights, I already have a plan to create conflict between Finley and Atlas. Tomorrow, as West End's leader, I'll host a gala here. Atlas's attention-seeking mistress will definitely show up uninvited, and as our honored guest, you can see for yourself if what I said is true." "That works. I'll come see for myself tomorrow," Andrew agreed. Dylan grinned. "It's a great plan. At the gala, you can set the stage for that pervert Finley to make his move on Atlas' mistress. Sparks will fly for sure." Natasha smirked. "Knowing Finley's nature, he won't be able to resist her. And that woman's no saint either—they'll hit it off immediately." Andrew checked his watch. "It's getting late, Dylan. We
Antonio trembled in anger as he exclaimed in disbelief, "That pretty boy is stick thin! How could he possibly take down Griffin? It must be Dylan spreading smoke and mirrors." Natasha smirked with a shake of her head. "I doubt it. Andrew has already proven himself at the Weller residence. He faced off against their senior fighter and walked away unscathed. How many people do you think could manage that?" Antonio fell silent, his brow furrowing in thought. Someone spoke up, "But Madam, the Northern District is incredibly powerful. We were better off staying neutral—allying with Dylan's South City is practically declaring war on Atlas." "I thought the same way before," Natasha replied. "But Andrew was right—Atlas is ambitious and cunning. If we do nothing while he takes down Dylan, West End will be next on his list." Antonio voiced his concerns, "That's true, but Northern District isn't just Atlas—there's also Finley. How confident can we be even with South City's help?" Nata
Natasha yawned lazily and said, "Alright, get some rest—I'm tired too. We have important business tomorrow, and Andrew will be there. I'll see if I can get him to warm up to me then." Antonio and the others could only force awkward laughs before quickly departing. They knew Natasha treated her subordinates well and was fiercely loyal. Combined with her exceptional combat skills and leadership, she maintained firm control over West End, but she was still a woman—and a straightforward one at that, sometimes even more straightforward than the toughest men. This often left older members like Antonio at a loss for words. … Meanwhile, in the Northern District, a subordinate entered Atlas's office to report. "Mr. Giordano, our men watched until dawn, but Dylan and Andrew never left West End's headquarters." Atlas extinguished his cigar and scoffed. "Natasha must have let them out through the secret tunnels. Damn it, it looks like Andrew has convinced her to ally with Dylan." "S
Atlas' mistress was overjoyed, showering him with sweet words over the phone. "Thank you, baby! I'll dress up beautifully for when you come. Oh, I've bought several sets of sexy lingerie—come rip them off me soon!" Atlas laughed happily. "Don't worry, baby. Once I handle these important matters, I'll keep you busy for days." After hanging up, Atlas felt deeply satisfied. His empire was rising, with Northern District at its peak, and soon, he would devour both Natasha's West End and Dylan's South City. Then, he would rule Jayrodale's underworld as its sole king, crushing Marvin, the Wellers, and Rhodes beneath his feet. … Meanwhile, in Andrew's office at Jayrodale General Hospital, Francesca walked in to find Andrew in a sharp suit. "Do you have a meeting or event?" she asked with a smile behind her hand, admiring his tall, elegant figure. "Neither—just attending a gala," Andrew replied with a smile. Francesca's eyebrows furrowed with concern. "Are you going to a gala? Do
Meanwhile in Scarlet Lounge, West End. Natasha had rented out the entire luxury resort for the event. When Andrew and Dylan arrived, they saw that the entrance was lined with high-end cars. Stunning women in designer dresses and sharp-looking men in tailored suits moved in and out of the venue, all exuding power and wealth. Dylan leaned closer and whispered, "Mr. Lloyd, you might not know this, but Natasha's not as conventional as she seems. "She's been keeping West End in check for years, but behind the scenes, she's got ties with several high-ranking officials and wealthy benefactors in Jayrodale. A lot of the men here might just be her… admirers." Andrew adjusted his crisp suit and replied casually, "It was obvious last night—Natasha knows how to use her charm to her advantage." Dylan smirked. "No doubt about it. Those legs of hers? God knows how many men she's brought to their knees with them, willing to do anything for her." Andrew smiled faintly. "Smart women always
Rodney chuckled. "Mr. Lincoln, you truly live up to the high regard my father holds for you. Please rest, and I'll make sure you're properly compensated later." Ivan nodded and turned to leave, but Andrew's voice cut through the air. "Wait." Everyone froze—both Rodney's Madblade Martial Academy group and Rhodes family bodyguards were stunned. "Andrew, what are you doing? Are you trying to get yourself killed?" Jerry growled through his pain. The bodyguards joined in, "Are you insane? Even Jerry was defeated! Do you want to die?" "Shut up! We already have a lot of problems on our plate!" "Andrew, don't try to get yourself killed. Mr. Lincoln is obviously a powerful expert—no one can save you!" Since even a master like Jerry had been defeated, they viewed Andrew's interruption as suicidal. The Rhodes family bodyguards were amazed at Andrew's audacity, believing he was playing with fire. "Well, our side still has one person who hasn't fought yet," Andrew said casually. "O
Below the ring, Andrew nodded slightly. Jerry's arrogance was backed by real skill, but unfortunately, the martial arts path was like a mighty river flowing into an endless ocean—there were always greater depths to discover. Ivan finally moved, transforming from his mountain-like stillness into explosive action. His classic internal martial arts technique concentrated all his power into a single point, channeling his energy like a surging tide before releasing it like a dragon's strike. Then, a dull thud echoed through the arena. Jerry's palm strike connected with Ivan's chest, but Ivan's counter-strike to Jerry's abdomen was even faster. Blood gushed out from Jerry's mouth as he staggered back three steps, his face pale as paper and filled with shock. Meanwhile, Ivan stood unmoved, wearing a look of disdain. He commented, "The Octa-Palm technique flows like a swimming dragon, fluid and adaptable. Too bad you've only scratched the surface of what your master created." Ivan wa
Jerry's eyes narrowed as he laughed bitterly. "So you're a nobody who's afraid to speak up. Fine, I'll make you pay for your ignorance and arrogance." Down below, the Rhodes family bodyguards were rubbing their hands in anticipation, already envisioning Jerry's decisive victory after defeating two of Madblade's fighters. "Andrew, this is the final round—if Jerry wins, we've got this in the bag! Watch and learn what real power looks like!" "Kid, look at Jerry, and then look at yourself. From what I can see, you probably couldn't even last half a move against him," one guard sneered. Another laughed, "Half a move? Jerry's breath alone could blow him away!" They continued their mockery: "The entire tournament was won by Jerry single-handedly. Hey Andrew, didn't you say you wouldn't let us lose? Haven't seen you lift a finger!" With victory seemingly within reach, Jerry's followers had become increasingly arrogant, praising him while ridiculing Andrew. Andrew just smiled a
Dean scoffed. "Don't worry, Mr. Sanford. I'll handle this arrogant fool." With a single leap, he landed on the fighting platform. Jerry looked at Dean with extreme contempt and taunted, "If it were Atlas, perhaps he could have given me a decent fight. But you, his worthless senior? You're not worthy—save yourself the humiliation!" Dean's gaunt face turned ashen as he gritted his teeth. "Jerry, you're only slightly more famous than me. Even if I can't defeat you, I'll at least make sure you suffer!" With that, Dean launched into a flurry of lightning-fast punches toward Jerry. Jerry moved with measured steps, turning left and right before delivering a powerful palm strike that sent Dean stumbling back three steps. "Garbage!" Jerry mocked, still keeping one hand behind his back. Dean was enraged and charged forward three steps before leaping high and launching a series of three rapid kicks. Three loud thuds sounded, and Jerry retreated while blocking Dean's flying kicks with
Suddenly, Ollie, who had been attacking fiercely, started panting and made a tactical retreat. The Madblade student's face broke into a mocking smile as he taunted, "What's wrong? Tired already?" The student changed his footwork pattern, rhythmically advancing toward Ollie before launching a series of quick, vicious strikes at his face. Ollie was startled and tried to defend with all his might, but his footwork became unstable and chaotic. Seizing the opportunity, the Madblade student whipped out a devastating leg sweep that connected with Ollie's thigh. As Ollie groaned in pain and lost his balance, his opponent showed no mercy and delivered a lightning-fast kick to his groin. There was a sickening crack that made even Andrew wince. Ollie's face drained of all color as he rolled around the ring, screaming in agony. The Rhodes family bodyguards stood speechless, completely caught off guard. Ollie had not only lost but had been brutally defeated—his groin likely shattered. "Ro
Andrew shook his head and warned, "Jerry, you're being too arrogant. "From what I can see, the head of Madblade Martial Academy doesn't even need to step in—that martial arts expert next to Rodney alone is enough to give you serious trouble." Jerry sneered. "What do you know about fighting levels? Do you think you can see something I can't? Young man, don't mistake ignorance for courage—it's truly foolish!" Ollie Keoghan, who had just been called up, mocked, "Andrew, why do you always have to run your mouth when you're around Ms. Rhodes? Jerry could probably take you down with just one finger." "Ollie is right—this guy's a nobody who talks too much," another guard chimed in. "Since we're having three matches, let's win the first two to secure victory. Then, we can let this punk go up for the last round and get beaten to a pulp by Madblade's fighters. Jerry's bodyguards all shot hostile looks at Andrew, joining in the criticism. Andrew just shook his head, noting how Jerry'
Rodney declared, "If my side loses, then you'll get their 60 million, handed over without question. But if you lose, I don't want anything else except…" At this point, Rodney suddenly stopped, his eyes gleaming with lust as he licked his lips in an incredibly vulgar manner. Behind him, his martial arts students joined in with sleazy snickers. Lauren felt goosebumps all over her body. She asked with disgust, "What do you want?" Rodney smiled. "Don't worry, my request isn't too outrageous. I just want your stockings, Lauren. And specifically, the ones you're wearing right now—I want them while they're still warm!" Then, he burst into laughter. Lauren's face turned slightly pale, clearly suppressing both rage and humiliation. She controlled her emotions well, though, and turned to look at Jerry. "Don't worry, Miss. I can defeat these petty thugs with one hand tied behind my back," Jerry said coldly. Lauren turned to Andrew, blushing slightly. "Dr. Lloyd, my stockings are on
Rodney's lips curled into a mocking smile. He sneered, "Mr. Keoghan, you've got quite the attitude, showing off in front of my Madblade Martial Academy. What do you think this is, some kindergarten playground?" Jerry, being a renowned senior grandmaster for many years, carried himself with natural authority. "Mr. Sanford, if it were your father, Vince Sanford, I would show him proper respect. But you're still too young and inexperienced, so I advise you not to make any foolish decisions." Jerry continued, "Just hand over Dean and let Ms. Rhodes deal with him. If you do that, we can put this whole incident behind us." Lauren gave a cold smile and turned to Andrew. "Don't worry, Dr. Lloyd. Jerry is one of the top fighters in the Rhodes family. If Rodney wants to play rough, we're more than happy to oblige!" Andrew's expression showed traces of doubt. Jerry's power as a senior grandmaster was indeed undeniable. Even if he had only recently reached that level, it was still enough t
Rodney's words made the skilled fighters behind him burst into raucous laughter. The students stopped their practice to stare at Lauren with strange expressions. "Rodney, I told you years ago that I wasn't interested in you," Lauren said calmly, showing no sign of anger. "Your persistent pursuit might be romantic to some, but even if you offered me the entire Madblade Martial Academy, I wouldn't give you a second glance." Rodney's face darkened immediately. He had tried to embarrass Lauren, but her sharp tongue had turned the tables on him instead. A hulking man beside Rodney sneered, "Ms. Rhodes, if you're going to reject Mr. Sanford, why are you even here?" "For our money," Lauren replied curtly. Dean scoffed. "Atlas owed Rhodes Corporation money, not me. If you want it, go ask him in hell." Lauren smirked. "Atlas may be dead, but not all Northern District's people are gone. I know you cleaned out Atlas's accounts. Dean, are you really going to pretend you don't owe us?"