Madam Hacks measured Sirius up in shock. Sirius, long overlooked by the family due to his birth, emerged as surprisingly audacious.He fired a shot at Astral, the successor of the family. The Hackses in Geranium City were a big family. The head of the family had five wives. Madam Hacks was the youngest wife out of the five. Larger groups were magnets for drama and conflict. The Hackses’ squabbling and disputed assets often featured in the city’s tabloids. Madam Hacks’ secured foothold in the Hacks family was a testament to her diplomacy in power struggles.She quickly realized what Sirius was after. Madam Hacks decided to support Sirius in establishing himself in the family and even becoming the next head of the household. She stood to gain a bountiful reward for choosing the right guy to invest in.At the very least, the decision would strengthen her position in the Hacks family. With that in mind, Madam Hacks smiled. “You did the right thing, Sirius. The Glitt
Kaze said sharply, “Christian, you and your group of mercenaries entered the country illegally and abducted my wife. I was kind and gracious enough to spare your lives and gave you three days to leave Arcadia. “But I guess you don’t know what’s best for you. You have the nerve to pose as a sales representative for Zion Trade Network to make false claims about me. “You’re really asking for it.” Kaze stared at Christian, his eyes reflecting bloodthirst. Most of the people at the scene were shocked. They could not believe Kaze vowed violence against Christian before their eyes. Even if Christian lacked Madam Hacks’ support and the sales representative title from Zion Trade Network, Kaze’s rudeness toward a Paladin like Christian was uncalled for.Foreigners tended to get special treatment and privileges in Arcadia. Christian sneered. “Zion Trade Network is a legitimate business, Kaze. The Paladian’s foreign office can vouch for that. We entered the country through the right
“Haha, Glitter. I think I’m beginning to like Arcadia.” Christian burst out laughing and patted Sirius’ shoulder. After a bout of laughter, Christian then said, “I heard that you’re here to arrest Kaze over Gareth’s murder. I think you can process the death of my employees and Gareth’s case together.” “No problem. Both cases fall in Viper’s Den’s jurisdiction.” Sirius took Christian’s suggestion without hesitation. Kaze was about to die anyway. These foreigners were pleased to get their revenge before Kaze died. “Alright.” Christian turned to Kaze with a ruthless smile. “You ordered everyone from Zion to leave the country in three days, Kaze.“In our part of the world, someone with your views would be considered a classic nationalist.“It’s time for you to experience what it’s like to die at the hands of your own people. “That reminds me. As a friend, I could talk to Viper’s Den’s higher management to make sure you don’t die so quickly. “Have fun. I heard Viper’s
Cheryl, Mary Sue, Christian, and the others snickered. “That’s a good idea, Chief Glitter. Make Kaze kneel and cuff himself. I wouldn’t want to miss that,” Mary Sue said with a wicked smile. Kaze responded indifferently, “Are you sure, Sirius? Are you going to make me kneel and bind my hands?” “What? Do you take yourself for a VIP?” Sirius dropped the façade and sneered. “You might be living like a king in Lilyrose and have friends in the mayor’s office, Mr. Lee. “But you’re nothing in the Viper’s Den’s eyes.“I don’t want to waste my breath with you. Either kneel and cuff, or I’ll make you.” Sirius raised his gun and pointed at Kaze’s head. Narrowing his eyes, Kaze was ready to strike. A figure emerged behind Sirius with a raised leg. “Wham!”The sudden attack slammed Sirius to the ground with a grunt. “Protect Chief Glitter.” The subordinates near Sirius went white and pointed their guns at the perpetrator in military uniform. “Are you pointing those things
The man was Albert Hiden, the chief commander of the State Strategic Department. The crowd looked at Albert in shock. Albert commanded the state’s military at the tender age of 30. Though he was not on equal footing with the state governor, they would find themselves in the same meeting room. Albert was truly a remarkable individual. The likes of Hannah and Sirius were a joke in the presence of Albert. Albert fiddled with the gun in hand and said indifferently, “Even the military wouldn’t launch an armed attack on the mayor’s office. The Viper’s Den sure is cocky.” Sirius said with a grimace, “Chief Commander Hiden, we are working a case, but Mr. Lee took cover in the mayor’s office. We cornered him here out of necessity. Our intention isn’t to launch an attack on the mayor’s office.“Besides, the State Strategic Department and the Viper’s Den operate in different jurisdictions. You have no right to tell us how to do our job, Chief Commander Hiden.” Sirius’ tone, while
“Let’s get one thing straight before I leave.” Filled with resentment, Sirius said snappily, “You can protect Mr. Lee today, but what about tomorrow or the day after, Chief Commander Hiden? “I doubt you can watch over him for the rest of his life.” Albert raised a brow. “Are you threatening me?” “This is no threat.” Sirius shook his head. “I’m merely stating a fact. You are busy with the state’s military affairs. You can’t always be there for Mr. Lee. You can’t anticipate everything.” The message was clear. Since Albert was taking Kaze’s side, Sirius would wait for his chance to strike Kaze. Albert chuckled. “That’s interesting. That’s quite a retaliation for a nobody working for Viper’s Den.” He drew close and slapped Sirius to the ground. Albert stepped on Sirius’ chest and lowered down to stare him in the eyes. “Are you forgetting that I’m not just a chief commander? “Even without my decorated stars, I can crush you. “I can kill you now, and the Viper’s Den a
“Do you reckon your rivals will make a big deal out of something you think isn’t worth mentioning, Chief Commander Hiden? “The little scandal should be enough to end your career.“Come on. If you think you can handle the consequences, crush me. Hahaha” Sirius laughed maniacally and looked at Albert in defiance. Albert narrowed his eyes dangerously. “Do you think I wouldn’t kill you? I’d rather stand by my belief than protect my career.” He did not explicitly state that Kaze was his belief. Albert put weight on his foot to crush Sirius. “Albert!” Kaze stopped him and said emotionlessly, “Let him go.” Given Kaze’s authority, Albert could still keep his career even if he killed Sirius. However, Albert would face some challenges. Besides, Kaze knew Sirius was right. Great power came with great responsibility. Albert’s upbringing meant that he would shoulder a lot of responsibilities. While Albert held the prestigious position of governing the state's military, th
Madam Hacks had to step in. She could not bear to let Albert take Kaze away to roam free.Madam Hacks could care less whether Kaze was dead, but she needed the Viper’s Den to make him disappear for a while. That way, Kaze could stop his influence on Loid. In fact, the experience should serve as a strong reminder to Loid to let Kingston go. Hence, Madam Hacks put a label on Albert and threatened him with his superiors.However, Albert was not afraid of intimidation. “The Geranium Hackses?” Albert glanced at Madam Hacks before approaching to slap her. “Smack!” Madam Hacks, despite her connections to the Glitters and Hackses, took a hit in the face. She looked nothing like a lady with her disheveled hair and swollen cheek. “Ah! How dare you hit me!” Madam Hacks covered her face and shrieked hysterically. The malice in her eyes showed her determination to tear Albert apart. However, Albert could care less. He said curtly, “You aren’t legally married to the Hackses.
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