Upon seeing Serena's eyes flash with anger, Evelyn realized there was no hiding the truth anymore. Reluctantly, she recounted how she had been slapped."Why didn't you call for help then?" Serena demanded. Her cheeks flushed with anger as she clenched her fists."Ms. Serena, it was just a slap. It's not a big deal. No harm done," Evelyn replied, trying to downplay the incident. She knew too well that the Shaw family was not to be trifled with, as not even local officials dared cross them."Fine. Get back to work," Serena said with a wave, noting Evelyn's clear reluctance to stir up trouble.Once Evelyn left, Jean frowned, addressing Serena. "Ms. Serena, there's a high chance the Shaw family will retaliate. I suggest not using your regular driver today."With that, Jean quickly sent a message to Esmond.Since they were now on the same side, Jean was not about to pass up a chance to build rapport with Esmond. He had already gotten his number and had been hosting him at Leng family

At that moment, a disciple approached Valedi and whispered something in his ear."Oh? Invite them in immediately!" Valedi replied, standing up and addressing Hiram. "Apologies, Hiram. An old friend has arrived unexpectedly. I'll be back shortly."Valedi headed toward the entrance, where he was met by a disheveled and sobbing Bram, who was crying as if he had suffered unimaginable injustice.Valedi frowned as he approached to support him. "Bram, what's going on?""Valedi, my family—the Shaw family—is being oppressed to the point of ruin! They've demanded we hand over all our assets by sunset tomorrow, or they'll wipe us! I had no choice but to come here, to beg for your help!" Bram's sorrowful cries echoed through the courtyard, even drawing the attention of Cyano Peak disciples, who glanced sympathetically at him.Valedi's expression grew more serious. "Bram, what's truly going on here? Surely no one would demand your assets without cause?"He signaled two disciples to escort Bra

Hiram believed this alliance was essential for the future growth of Reikoten Circle. After all, he had succeeded where Iver had failed, and he was confident the Bullard family would recognize his value."Hmph! What is righteousness? In the world of kickboxing circles, strength is the only rule! Xayne may have friends, but we do, too. To my knowledge, you're on good terms with the circle leaders of DiFlores Circle and Heaven's Feather Circle Sect," Hiram continued. "If the four sects unite and pay him a visit, would he dare turn us down?"Upon hearing this, a glimmer of excitement appeared on Bram's face. He turned to Valedi eagerly. "Master Valedi, he's absolutely right! All it takes is one word from you.""With your reputation, combined with the presence of the four powerful circles, Xayne rejecting us would be like slapping us all in the face. Do you think he would dare to do that?" On the verge of desperation, Amos also pleaded, "Yes, Master Valedi, if you don't help our family,

"Hey! That... that old geezer!" Hiram glared fiercely at Esmond."Master Hiram, don't act rashly! That's definitely Esmond. He's a master of the sword arts. If we can avoid a conflict, it's best to keep things peaceful," advised Valedi, grabbing Bram by the arm and murmuring, "Bram, remember, let's not come off as too overbearing. We're here to resolve an issue, not create more enemies."Bram nodded firmly. "Valedi, don't worry. I know what I'm doing."However, because of the tension on Bram's face, Valedi could not help but feel uneasy.As everyone followed Bram into the Serena Group building, Valedi sighed and trailed in after them.Inside the conference room from the day before, Bram and the others each found a chair and sat down. Hiram and his group shot cold stares at Esmond, who remained calm and said, "Everyone, if you have something to say, speak one at a time.""But keep in mind," Esmond added, "This is Serena Group, not your Kickboxing Association, so I expect a measure

It was four against one, and Esmond was already severely injured."Sir, don’t!"With a firm yet gentle touch, Serena pressed down on Esmond’s sword and said in a low voice, "You at least owe us time to discuss this. How about you give us an answer by tomorrow at this time?"Upon seeing Serena’s tone softening, Valedi quickly stood up with a smug grin on his face. "Of course, of course. We’re reasonable people, after all. Just don’t let our patience go to waste, Ms. Serena."With that, he forcefully dragged Bram out of the conference room. Upon seeing Bram pulled along, Hiram and the others followed suit, though Hiram threw a lingering glance at Esmond on his way out.In that look, a faint murderous intent flickered.Only after they had left did Serena turn to Esmond. "Sir, you’re injured, and facing four enemies alone is suicide. We don’t need the Bram family’s assets if it means risking your life!"Upon hearing her words, Esmond was visibly moved. He looked at Serena for a long