Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren)

Mosby had failed to convince the Golding family, and his mood had hit rock bottom. Given his status, he did not have the authority to issue a bounty backed by the major houses.

In other words, he could not rally the underground assassins under the name of a bloodline clan to hunt down Andrew.

So now, he had no choice but to take an alternative route.noveldrama

Old Hayface, still battered and cautious, spoke up carefully. "Mr. Lake, we really can't afford to take this lightly. This Andrew guy is no joke. Even Ellis couldn't beat him. If we're going after him, your average martial artist won't cut it."

Mosby shot him a frosty glare and snapped, "Do I need you to remind me? The kid's arrogant, sure-but he's got the strength to back it up. To bring him down, we'll have to be strategic. That's why I said earlier-I'm willing to spend 500 million!

"With that kind of money, I could buy the lives of half the thugs in this city like it's nothing..."

Old Hayface hesitated, then suddenly perked up. "Mr. Lake, wait! Isn't the Grand Medical Summit just around the corner here in Blumedale? Carl should be returning soon from the Advanced Medical Institute to prep for it! With his skills, he could definitely avenge you!"

Mosby's eyes lit up, and then he let out a loud laugh. "You're absolutely right! It's been what-almost two years since Carl went off to the Institute? I nearly forgot I had such a powerful apprentice under my wing!"

Old Hayface rubbed his hands together with a mix of awe and unease on his face.

"Carl's the most gifted among your students, both in martial arts and medicine! If he steps in to handle Andrew, not only would it be justified-but it would restore your name and prestige. That Andrew punk won't last long!"

Mosby's sour mood finally lifted. He grinned. "Indeed. Carl's talent rivals that of the heirs of the Five Apex Families. In combat alone, he's nearly on par with Xavier Haywood, and having him kill Andrew is absolutely fitting."

Old Hayface sheered. "That little bastard thought he was untouchable just because he's got a bit of skill. Not only did he act all high and. mighty but he even stood up for that old fossil Ronan! Once Carl returns, it'll be his judgment day!"

Mosby's eyes narrowed, his voice low and dangerous. "Speaking of Ronan-what

I asked you and your fellow apprentices to take care of earlier needs to happen tonight."

Old Hayface frowned. "Mr. Lake, shouldn't we hold off a little longer? If we openly go after the partial map in Ronan's hands, the other big families might catch wind of it.

"And if word gets out, your plan to keep the treasure for yourself? That'll go straight out the window. The Goldings, the Haywoods, the Wrights-none of them would hesitate to swoop in and demand a cut."

Mosby scoffed. "You think I haven't already considered that? But we can't afford to wait anymore. That stubborn old man, Mr. Bates, has refused every offer. At this point, we need to use force. I'm not risking another delay-who knows what tricks that geezer might pull if we wait too long."

Old Hayface's voice dropped to a menacing whisper. "Alright. I'll take a team tonight and make our move. If that old bastard dares resist, I'll kill him on the spot!"

Mosby raised his hand sharply. "Not until the map is in our hands. No killing. If Ronan dies before we secure the piece, we risk losing all leads Do this-pressure him hard. If he still refuses, grab Janice. She's the leverage we need to break him."

Old Hayface grinned wickedly. "Brilliant as always, Mr. Lake. Understood. I'll follow your orders to the letter."