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 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
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'
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
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
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
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
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
At that point, Christina paused and swept a cold glance toward Shawn before letting out a sarcastic laugh. "Shawn, you've been out of Jayrodale for a while, haven't you? Clearly, you have no clue what the situation is like now. "Let me tell you—if Andrew wanted to, he could crush your little Fields family with the snap of his fingers. So if you're the one encouraging Quinton to go head-to-head with him, your family would be the first to get wiped out." Shawn stood there frozen, stammering, "I-I was just… you know, just talking big!" Meanwhile, he quickly rolled up his sleeve to wipe away the cold sweat dripping down his forehead. Quinton let out a cold snort. "Even if Andrew has every advantage—timing, location, and support on his side. If the Wrights really go all in, Christie, do you seriously think he could stop us?" Christina frowned. "If you come in full force, maybe Andrew wouldn't be able to handle the Wrights' top fighters. But have you thought about what that really
Quinton did not speak, his brow furrowed tightly. Meanwhile, Christina's side suddenly let out a mocking laugh. Shawn's face flushed red with anger as he snapped, "Christie, what's so funny? Do you think my suggestion is a joke?" Christina gave him a cold glance, her voice dripping with disdain. "That wasn't a suggestion—it was idiocy. A suicide mission." Shawn clenched his fists, his temper flaring. "Christina, don't think just because Quinton favors you now, you can talk down to me." He leaned in, his voice low and threatening. "Mark my words, one day, you'll be mine." Christina's lips curled into a sneer, her eyes filled with contempt. "Shawn, did you forget how you slunk out of Jayrodale like a beaten dog after Andrew humiliated you?" She tilted her head, her gaze icy. "Look at you now. What do you think you are in my eyes?" Shawn exploded with rage. Christina had not spelled it out, but her look said everything—to her, he was nothing more than a pathetic mutt. Quin
Meanwhile, Quinton lowered his phone, his face clouded with rage. Shawn sneered. "I told you Dominic was unreliable. You should've known he'd let you down." Quinton scoffed. "Anyone can throw shade after the fact. If he was worthless, then what exactly could you have done better?" Shawn looked like he had swallowed poison. He opened his mouth, but nothing came out. "Damn it," Quinton growled. "Dominic didn't just screw up—he lost his position as family head. Find out exactly what happened. I want details, and I want them now!" He had invested serious hopes in Dominic, and to watch it all collapse this fast felt like a drop from heaven straight into hell. Christina spoke up, her voice cool and calm. "No need to investigate. I already know what happened." Quinton turned toward her. "Ms. Stevens, go ahead. I'm listening." Christina said plainly, "Everything started with Andrew. He pulled strings and leveraged his connections to rally over half of Jayrodale's powerhouses. T
Alfred added coldly, "This was Mr. Lloyd's order. Satisfied now?" Dominic's body went stiff as his heart sank completely. He knew that crossing Andrew meant ruin deep down, but now he was sure of it. This was not just a fall from grace; it was a freefall straight into hell, and there was no coming back. Camilla shrieked, clinging to Dominic's arm. "How are we supposed to survive in some small county town? They don't even have shopping malls, no luxury boutiques, not even a damn proper restaurant! What about my friends? My lifestyle? What the hell am I supposed to do?" Dominic tried to comfort her. "It's okay. These smaller towns have developed a lot recently. The Goth family owns several properties down there. Once we settle in, we'll still live comfortably. "As for luxury stores and proper restaurant chains—come on, let's be real. Do you think we'll ever be buying designer bags again?" Camilla shouted, "I don't care! I'm pregnant, and I can't live without the things I love.
For a split second, Nyla hesitated. She had once truly loved her father. However, seeing Dominic sobbing on the floor, pathetic and pitiful, she finally saw him for what he really was. The so-called fatherly authority he used to carry was nothing more than fear-based dominance—he was no different than any other coward clinging to survival. She said calmly, "You don't have to worry. I won't pursue charges against you or Camilla." Nyla turned her head away, refusing to look at him again. "But whatever bond we had as father and daughter… ends here." Dominic's face twisted in disbelief. "Nyla, what are you saying? You're seriously going to steal my position as family head?" Nyla shook her head and let out a soft scoff. "I'm not stealing anything. But tell me—do you really think you're still fit to be the head of this family?" Dominic opened his mouth, but nothing came out. His throat locked up like someone was physically choking the words from him. Francesca stepped forward w
Camilla let out a desperate scream and clutched her pregnant belly as she dropped to her knees, trying to beg Andrew for mercy. "Mr. Lloyd, I'm pregnant… please, I'm begging you—for the sake of my baby, spare us! Please, just give us a second chance!" However, Andrew stepped to the side, refusing her plea without a second thought. "Sorry, but begging now is a little too late." He turned to Alfred and asked calmly, "Alfred, I'm thinking of appointing Nyla as the new head of the Goth family. Do you believe she's fit for the role?" Alfred did not hesitate for a second. "Mr. Lloyd, absolutely. No question—she's more than qualified. But… if I may add just one small condition…" Before he could even finish, Andrew cut in with a cool tone. "I already know what you're trying to say. You want me to spare the Goth family, right? Don't worry. As long as Nyla takes the leadership role and you support her properly… "I'll personally make sure the Goth family bounces back. In fact, I'll help
Alfred's furious outburst stunned everyone in the Goth family. "The entire city of Jayrodale is closing ranks against us right now!" he shouted, his face red with rage. "I spent over 30 years building our network—30 years of sweat, deals, and favors—and you destroyed it in a single day! You want me to stay away? Fine. But what now? You expect me to sleep on the streets like some washed-up nobody?" Alfred was shaking with rage as he slapped Dominic across the face again—and again, and again, delivering a flurry of brutal smacks. Given his seniority and power in the family, Alfred's authority was on par with Dominic's, if not stronger. In fact, Dominic's mediocrity had long been hidden behind Alfred's efforts—he was the one who kept the family's reputation intact. So, inside the Goth family, Alfred's word always carried more weight than Dominic's. After that vicious barrage of slaps, Dominic's face was covered in blood. Even one of his ears had started to bleed. Camilla shrie
Dominic believed there was a limit to how much someone could bluff. The Goth family might have kept a low profile, but they'd always been stable. Unless they were completely self-destructed, thinking someone could wipe them out from the outside was just a fantasy. Right then, Dominic's phone rang. He glanced at the screen and grinned before answering. "Mr. Jenner! Haha, I'm guessing the permit finally came through for our project, right? I knew it'd get approved!" The voice on the other end exploded. "Permit my ass, Dominic! Have you completely lost your damn mind? That project's main contract went through Rhodes Corporation, and you had the nerve to piss off their director, Mr. Lloyd? They already booted us off the deal! You absolute dumpster fire of a partner. I must've been blind to ever work with you!" The call ended in a furious hang-up before Dominic even had a chance to respond. He stood there frozen, still holding his expensive phone as if it had just slapped him across t
Camilla glared at Nyla with eyes full of venom. "You little bitch—this is all your fault! The Goth family fed you, clothed you, gave you everything. And this is how you repay us? By betraying your own blood? You just wait. I swear, I'll make you regret it." Nyla burst into tears. "Dad… Camilla… we were the ones in the wrong. If we all apologize to Andy together, I know he'll forgive us!" However, Dominic roared and pointed toward the door. "Get out! Get out of the Goth residence right now! From this moment on, you have no place here. You are no longer one of us." Nyla turned pale and dropped to her knees, ready to beg. Francesca rushed over and pulled her into her arms. Her voice was cold. "Nyla, don't waste your tears. Instead, be thankful. Because now, you finally see them for who they really are. These people are not parents—they're monsters." Andrew casually patted Dominic's cheek, a half-smile on his face. "You think I can't touch you, don't you? Mr. Goth, maybe we haven