Steven Harris stared in shock at his unconscious brother lying on the marble floor, a butter knife protruding from his forehead. The casual ease with which Jack Sullivan had defeated Steven Baker—a man who had killed dozens in combat—left the Smiling Tiger genuinely shaken for the first time in years."You went too far," Steven Harris said quietly, his voice carrying a dangerous edge. "Steven Baker may be hotheaded, but he's still my brother.""Your brother attacked me with a machete," Jack Sullivan replied without looking up from his meal. "I showed remarkable restraint by not killing him.""Restraint?" Steven Harris's famous smile disappeared completely. "You put a knife in his head!""I put a butter knife in his forehead," Jack Sullivan corrected. "If I had wanted him dead, I would have used something sharper and aimed lower."Grace Chang and the other party guests pressed themselves against the walls, sensing that the confrontation was about to escalate beyond anything they could

Chris struggled to his feet, blood streaming from multiple wounds where Jack Sullivan's wind technique had slammed him into the wall. His legendary confidence was completely shattered, replaced by something he had never experienced in his career as North America's most feared assassin—genuine terror."This is impossible," Chris gasped, clutching his ribs. "I'm Tornado! I've killed presidents! I've eliminated entire organizations! You can't just—""Can't just what?" Jack Sullivan asked with mild curiosity. "Defeat you? I believe I already have.""This isn't over!" Chris snarled, raising his hands to summon another wind attack. "I'll show you what real—""Wind Dragon Descends to Earth," Jack Sullivan said again, but this time with considerably more force behind the technique.The wind that erupted from his palm wasn't just powerful—it was devastating. The compressed air struck Chris with such tremendous force that it didn't just knock him down. The wind dragon technique shredded through

At Jefferson County Airport, an unprecedented scene unfolded as Steven Harris stood at the head of a group of regional leaders, all waiting respectfully for Jack Sullivan's departure. The Smiling Tiger, who just days earlier had been preparing to fight Jack Sullivan, now bowed deeply as he approached."Mr. Sullivan," Steven Harris said with genuine respect, "it has been an honor having you in Grace Region.""Thank you for your hospitality," Jack Sullivan replied politely, though both men knew the visit had been anything but hospitable.Marcus Baker from the Tiger Martial Arts Association stepped forward eagerly. "Mr. Sullivan, the entire martial world is buzzing about your victory over Chris Williams. We would be honored to hold a celebration banquet in Carson City to commemorate this achievement.""A celebration banquet?" Jack Sullivan asked with mild interest."Yes, sir!" Marcus Baker continued enthusiastically. "Representatives from every major organization would attend. It would b

Jack Sullivan and Sophie Stewart entered the elegant Golden Tower Building, one of Carson City's most prestigious restaurants. The entire establishment buzzed with activity as staff prepared for what would be the most significant gathering the city had ever hosted."This place is incredible!" Sophie Stewart exclaimed, looking around at the marble floors and crystal chandeliers. "Are you sure you can afford this?""Don't worry about it," Jack Sullivan replied, requesting a quiet table near the window.As they settled in, Sophie Stewart noticed the unusual number of expensive cars and security personnel outside. "What's happening today? There are so many important-looking people around.""Some kind of celebration," Jack Sullivan said vaguely, studying the menu. "Order whatever you'd like."Sophie Stewart's eyes widened as she saw the prices. "Jack, these meals cost more than most people make in a month!""You said you hadn't eaten in three days," Jack Sullivan reminded her. "Order prope

Jack Sullivan and Sophie Stewart approached the Premium Winery as the sun began to set over Carson City. The venue buzzed with unprecedented activity—luxury cars lined the streets, security personnel patrolled every entrance, and the most powerful figures from across multiple provinces had gathered for what was being called the celebration of the decade."I still can't believe all this is for you," Sophie Stewart said, looking around in amazement at the crowd of dignitaries."Neither can I," Jack Sullivan replied honestly. "I would have preferred a quiet dinner."As they walked toward the main entrance, a sharp voice called out behind them."Sophie! Sophie Stewart!"They turned to see an elegantly dressed young woman approaching with obvious displeasure written across her face. Sophia Miller, Sophie's cousin, wore expensive jewelry and carried herself with the arrogance that came from old money."Sophia," Sophie Stewart said with resignation. "What are you doing here?""The real quest