Charlie had actually invited Julien over to bring him aboard his metaphorical ship.While not particularly down-to-earth, Julien was still the second most important figure in the Rothschild family, and having him on board wouldn't hurt.Moreover, just having drinks with Charlie and Raymond here basically told everyone they were friends. If Harrison knew that Julien was meeting the son of Curtis Wade as well as 'Biden Cole', who had taken the Four-Sided Treasure Tower from the Rothstchilds, he just might have Julien shot.While Julien may not become the head of the Rothschild family anytime soon, he would prove very useful.With Helena basically controlling Harrison and Charlie himself controlling Julien, traveling Stateside would be no different from going home."It seems I must reevaluate my opinion of you now with that attitude."Charlie smiled at Julien and raised his cup, "Come, let's have a toast—to friendship."Julien nodded, picked up his cup, exclaiming cheerfully, "To f
Charlie chuckled. "You might think that I'm screwing you over, but in reality, I'm indirectly solidifying your place as heir apparent. From what I've learned, your family has not confirmed who it would be."Julien chuckled awkwardly. "You're right, but I am now. With the pills you've provided, however, my father might live longer than me…"Charlie nodded. "Since we have the fortune of meeting over drinks, I shall cut to the chase—to me, it doesn't matter who between you or your father lives longer. My priority is with whom I could hope for a better partnership."And right now, your father has shown more sincerity than you have, which was why I asked Helena to provide him with my pills."Pausing, Charlie then asked, "Are you aware of your father's recent activities? In Northern Europe?""A little," Julien replied. "A data center or something along those lines."Charlie nodded again. "See, I've asked Helena to make him a new offer—I will provide him with one pill should he build an
Julien shook his head and gingerly asked, "Jordan Fox likes his granddaughter?"Charlie smiled, shaking his head. "And your father doesn't like you as his eldest? Admiration is no guarantee of inheritance. And if we're talking about love, is it not a gesture of love that he provided you with endless cash and a life of privilege that only the world's top one percent can enjoy?"Julien also noticed the flaw in his logic. "Then, do you perchance know why, Mr. Wade?"Charlie nodded. "Jordan granted his position to Kathleen because that was the condition I proposed to him in return for prolonging his life. No succession, no pills—no matter how much he was willing to pay me for it."Then, Charlie looked Julien straight in the eye as he continued solemnly, "If the day comes and I find you more reliable, I will choose you as the sole broker for your father's pills. Just think about it—if the day comes that you're the only person your father can get his pills from, would he say no if you as
Julien had made up his mind—Charlie had already dragged him into this anyway, and he certainly wouldn't stay as a slave who bemoaned his fate every day.He had boarded Charlie's ship, and the ship had sailed—he just had to come up with a plan so that he could stay on it without any problem.After all, the chances for him to become the next Rothschild head or how long he would get to live were banked entirely on Charlie's decision.If Charlie didn't want him as head, he just had to ask Helena to be his broker and sell some pills to old Harrison, and Julien would be forced to stay as the heir apparent to their empire until he expired.And since the decision was made, he must first show some sincerity by investing into Aurous Hill—it was the ideal way to bring in both capital and human resources.With Julien having indicated his position, Charlie smiled. "Aurous Hill is a land of wealth and prosperity. As a local, I keenly await your investment, Mr. Rothschild."Julien was worried f
Having heard all of that, Julien promptly picked up his cup and chugged his drink, and he felt distinctly different as soon as the liquor touched his lips.While one would usually feel warm after drinking alcohol, like a thrilling burning sensation, this medicinal liquor was nourishing instead, almost as if every single one of Julien's sweat pores were revitalized.After all, it was the enhanced version of the Healing Pill, whose effect was more than double the prototype. That was why just a fifth was enough for Julien to feel two years younger.With the miraculous pill, he felt less tired, and sitting on the stool didn't hurt his rump or his hip.Even his sight was much sharper, his presbyopia clearing considerably.In short, his entire body had never felt this good!Even as he glanced at Raymond across the table, he could see that the other man's cheeks were flushed, and many of his wrinkles had smoothed over!It went without saying that Julien was envious as Raymond drank twi
"That would be me," Don Albert replied and asked in return, "And who are you? What's your business with me?"Mr. Bay quickly said, "Good evening, Don Albert. I'm Mr. Bay from the Calligraphy and Painting Association—we've met before.""Oh, Mr. Bay…" Don Albert did indeed recall who he was. "So, why have you called me?""I hope you don't mind—I had to ask a few friends to get your number…"Don Albert smiled as he already had a hunch that Mr. Bay was calling about Jacob. "I see. Just be straight with me now.""Okay, so here's the thing…" Mr. Bay promptly said, "Jacob and Zachary Evans really stirred some waves with what they did, and it's talked about a lot amongst the circles of antique enthusiasts in Aurous Hill… But I wonder if you've heard?"Don Albert sighed. "Yes, I've heard. Go on."Mr. Bay obliged. "Well, to be honest, it wasn't just a big deal amongst the circles of antique enthusiasts in Aurous Hill. Even the Calligraphy and Painting Association was affected. As you know
"Don Albert… is giving up on Jacob Wilson?!"Mr. Bay exclaimed in shock. "B-But he was so respectful toward Jacob just the other day when we had dinner at the Heaven Springs… He gave us the best private room and even offered his best wine, filling our glasses personally…"Mrs. Bay waved him off. "You've been stuck with the retirees of the Calligraphy and Painting Association for so long that you've lost your nose for danger! Just think about it—married couples who were just sharing a bed one night could pull a knife on their partner the very next day. And these are men with priorities we're talking about."Also, you should take into account that Zachary Evans is Don Albert's right-hand man, and Jacob somehow dragged him into a fraud scheme. So, do you think Don Albert would be happy with that?"And according to Zachary's public statement, all the money they got went straight into Jacob's pocket—and what does that mean? It means Zachary is an accessory to a crime—at worst, an accomp
Mr. Bay was left pursing his lips awkwardly. "T-That's way too despicable, don't you think? I'm the one who asked him to write a resignation and give up his place as vice-president while I handle the other vice-presidents and resolve the entire matter internally. Everyone can take a step back from escalation, and it's a solution that could please everyone."If I take that resignation at face value, won't it be like a bank goading a client into taking a scam loan? Won't he hate me to the bone if he finds out I screwed him over?""What are you worried about?" Mrs. Bay shot back in annoyance. "Are you that scared of Jacob Wilson turning against you? Hell, my own sister hates me to the bone—but what did you think I told her? That I'm never lending her the money no matter how much she hates me!"What do you think would have happened if I were worried about her feelings and loaned her the money she asked for? She wouldn't have to use a single cent to get herself a new house! She would say
Holding up a thumb at Charlie, Julien exclaimed in approval, "You're right, my friend! That's far more exciting than having him jailed!"Just hearing that he would be sent to a kennel, Jimmy knew nothing would come of it—even if he didn't know the details, it was so obvious that Julien was thrilled by the very idea!Turning nervously toward Charlie, he was sobbing as he asked, "Mr. Wade…? What's this about a kennel…?"Julien chuckled coolly even before Charlie said a word. "A kennel is where you keep dogs, of course. Though there are literal dogs and metaphorical dogs, and you are the latter."Oh, don't worry. It's a really nice place where you get your own cage, and you'll be fed every day. You don't even have to work, so just sit tight and keep eating until the day you die."Jimmy's soul left his body in that instant.He was going to be locked in a cage?! That was way worse than being locked up and sent to jail! Where was the humanity around here?!Even as the thought struck h
Matilda was actually caught off guard by Jimmy's pleas, and even Paul found it hard to watch.Turning to Charlie, he said, "Please, Mr. Wade—my uncle can be a little despicable, but he is my father's brother. Please, let him have a chance to turn over a new leaf, seeing that he's earnestly repenting."While Paul spoke with Charlie, Jimmy was still confused and wondered why Paul would plead his case with Charlie instead of Julien. If there was anyone Paul should ask, it was Yolden since he was Julien's friend. So, why would he ask some young man instead of Yolden?That was when Charlie asked in curiosity, "You want to let him off? After he tried to take away your parents' legacy?"Paul smiled awkwardly. "I mean, I know the guy. He made sure to travel all this way to make a scene because he had nothing legal that could help him claim Smith Group Corporate Law from us. Otherwise, he'd have already filed the lawsuit in the States. Sure, it's a dirty move, but that's basically a des
As Julien finished, he realized something was wrong and turned toward Charlie before he knew it.Charlie held his gaze in turn, his expression quizzical and amused.Julien cleared his throat right then. "See, there are people who can order me around, but they have my utmost respect. However, a third-rate lawyer like you? Who do you think you are?"That was when Julien's butler called, and he reported respectfully as soon as the call was answered, "Sir, I've spoken with Nate Ellis, the owner of Ares LLC. He has since agreed to fire Jimmy Smith right away as well as disbar him nationwide."Julien asked, "Good. Anything else?""Well, Mr. Ellis also delivered some documents that can be used as evidence against Jimmy Smith, which he claims is enough for a lifetime sentence. If you deem it necessary, we can have it sent to the FBI.""Yes, let's go with that!" Julien replied, his tone satisfied. "And ask the director to handle it personally—I want this prick to never set foot stateside
Jimmy was sweating profusely in fear, but he argued back before he knew it, "That's impossible! Everything you say is bullshit! Gaiman simply thought he had a fair chance of winning and didn't want to pay Ares that much, and I have no idea who he partnered with, and I'm certainly not involved. Don't you try to slander me!"Nate chuckled. "Come on, Jimmy. We're all adults here, so there are things we shouldn't have to be so direct about. Mills Gaiman and your old classmate met in private many times, not to mention the private conferences you three had in secret, discussing your overall strategy and decisive points. Just so you know, Gaiman recorded every conversation, and I have the tapes with me."Jimmy's heart was left pounding as he blurted, "B-Bullshit! That's impossible!""Grow up, Jimmy," Mr.Goodman chuckled. "Every partner in every law firm always strives to rise higher, so I'm going to need as much leverage as I can. Otherwise, I'm not about to let them advance any further, e
Although the ringtone and vibration frequency were the ones Jimmy always used, this call somehow felt more urgent, leaving him exceedingly uneasy.When it abruptly stopped and left a missed call on his log, Nate Ellis soon sent a text: [Answer your damn phone this instant!]Just seeing the text left Jimmy feeling like his throat had gone dry, and as he gulped, it felt like his throat was being ripped, leaving him hurting.Still, he couldn't care less as his boss called again.Having seen the text, Jimmy didn't hesitate this time and promptly answered, watching Julien's smug face as he started tentatively, "Y-Yes, boss...?"Nate immediately yelled at him hysterically, "What the hell did you do?! Why did the Rothschilds call to complain about you?! And the complaint was from their heir apparent, at that! I worked hard for them and always toed the line for years, and I still haven't gotten a chance to meet the man, so how the fuck did you upset him?!"Jimmy's heart sank to rock bott
Fuming, Jimmy snapped at Julien, "If you insist on playing it like that, I will call my boss, and you can talk to him yourself!"Julien chuckled. "That's unnecessary. I've never met him. He would never recognize my voice."Jimmy laughed and nodded despite himself. "Impressive—you can really come up with anything! You don't have his number because he's beneath you, you refuse to call him because he's beneath you, and when I say I'll call him for you, you say he won't recognize your voice. Well, how do you suppose we should sort this out? At least prove you're a Rothschild, or anyone could claim that they are—"Julien held up a hand to stop him. "Then, how about this? I'll ask my butler to talk to your boss."Jimmy laughed even more loudly as if it were the best joke ever. "Hahaha!!! Butler, you say?! You really know how to talk! Alright, I'll wait and see what your 'butler' can do… I mean, what you can do. We'll see whether my boss calls me!"Julien ignored him and whipped out his
Naturally, Jimmy couldn't care less about Julien's suggestion, even looking at him pointedly from head to toe while smirking in contempt, "What, do you think I'd just do what any nutjob tells me to do just because they're claiming to be the Rothschilds' heir apparent?"Julien nodded, still smiling. "Good point, but don't worry—it's the same whether you call him or he calls you."Jimmy laughed. "I was offering you a way out, but you want to keep pressing your luck? Since you don't care to back off, let's see how you're going to finish this fight."Then, he shrugged while pointing at Yolden. "Well, it's the perfect chance to measure Matilda's husband, I guess."Based on what he saw of Yolden, there was no way he would buy Julien's claims, and thus labeled him an impostor in his mind.An ordinary lecturer in Aurous Hill, being friends with the Rothschilds' heir apparent? Not to mention that there had been plenty of fraudulent cases outside the States where the Rothschild name was use
Jimmy was taken aback since he didn't recognize Julien at all, mainly because the Rothschilds had always kept out of the public eye.In fact, it was basically impossible to gather genuine information about the Rothschilds online, as it was a mix of press releases and gossip. Most online biographies would only be about the older generations or certain frivolous figures. Any information about key members like Steve would never be searchable online.Matilda was confused as well, not quite understanding who Julien was since he wasn't on the list of guests invited.Seeing that she was confused, Julien turned and smiled at Yolden, "So, Professor, shouldn't you introduce me to the bride?"Yolden finally remembered that and quickly nodded, "Sorry, it slipped my mind."Turning toward Matilda, he smiled, "Darling, this is Julien Rothschild… A friend of mine from the states…"Julien's full name left everyone within earshot gaping as the Rothschild name was way too famous across the globe.
Seeing that Jimmy was getting a little nervous, Charlie smiled and assured him, "Please, you have nothing to worry about. No one's going to do anything to you, but if you feel threatened in any way, you can call the cops. The Oskian emergency hotline is 110, by the way."Jimmy was slightly relieved as he could see that Charlie really wasn't trying to make things awkward for him, and he straightened his collar as he said, "Actually, I didn't mean to cause trouble—I'm pleased that Matilda has found true love once more, and if we can be friends, I can set aside my claim and stay for the rest of this wedding, offering the newlyweds our best wishes as a representative of my family."Still, his expression showed contempt as he turned toward Yolden. "Also, I'm really curious and looking forward to seeing what connections Professor Hart might have that you say could be better than Bill.""You'll see soon enough," Charlie smiled and nodded.Jimmy remained skeptical and scoffed, "I really do