2024-12-26 04:12:18Douglas met Nelson’s gaze without flinching.
“I was brought in on accusations of corruption, bribery, and solicitation,” he said casually, as though discussing the weather. Nelson’s face twisted in shock. “What?!” He nearly jumped out of his skin, his reaction so abrupt that even the officers flinched. Nelson couldn’t believe his ears. The man before him was none other than the same Douglas Garnett who, over the past four years, had revolutionized PortVarter State. Under Douglas’s leadership, schools had been built, child trafficking rings dismantled, infrastructure modernized, and healthcare for ordinary citizens drastically improved. Prices had stabilized, production increased, crime fought relentlessly, and social welfare programs enhanced to benefit everyone. Even the mayor of Grena, a notoriously tough and critical figure, had treated Douglas with the utmost respect, often speaking to him with the politeness reserved for dignitaries. “Impossible!” Nelson blurted out, his disbelief spilling into his voice. “Someone like you accused of such crimes? You’ve done nothing but work for the betterment of PortVarter. Who in their right mind would—” Before Nelson could finish, Douglas interrupted him with a wave of his hand. “Chief Nelson,” he said, with a firm but calm tone, “I didn’t come here to discuss what I’ve done or haven’t done. I came to let you know something.” Nelson straightened, his confusion mounting. “What is it?” Douglas leaned forward slightly. “I plan to visit Maccano Mountain before I’m jailed.” Nelson froze, his eyes widening in surprise. “Maccano Mountain? But why?” Maccano Mountain was a towering, snow-capped peak at the southern edge of PortVarter, famed for its breathtaking beauty and treacherous terrain. It was more than just a natural wonder—it was the state’s final barrier before the lawless, chaotic regions to the south, known as the eternal abyss. The mountain was notorious for the countless lives it had claimed, with many deaths going unnoticed due to the remoteness and danger of the area. Douglas leaned back, his expression inscrutable. “That’s not something you need to know. I’m just informing you because, at the moment, I’m technically a man with a criminal record.” Nelson frowned, clearly uneasy. “If that’s your decision… I can’t stop you. But Maccano Mountain is dangerous, and the area around it even more so. "Why don't you let me accompany you, Mr. Garnett, to ensure your safety?” Douglas gave a small, almost imperceptible smile, then stood without another word. The two uninformed officers, pale and drenched in cold sweat, stood to the side, too scared to even meet Douglas’s gaze. As Douglas walked toward the exit, Nelson fell in step beside him. It was only then that realization began to dawn on the seasoned station chief. The accusations against Douglas weren’t mere coincidence—they were part of a larger scheme. Someone powerful, likely connected to Governor Clarke, had orchestrated this! Nelson’s heart sank. He knew that if Douglas was taken out of the equation, PortVarter State would crumble under the weight of its unresolved problems. Gangs would return, corruption would flourish, and the fragile peace Douglas had painstakingly built would shatter. Nelson shuddered, unwilling to imagine the chaos that would follow. Without hesitation, he immediately called Lieutenant Governor Mason to report the situation. Mason was stunned upon hearing the news. How could Douglas, of all people, be arrested as a criminal? He struggled to comprehend the shocking news, fully aware of who Douglas was and what he represented in PortVarter State. After a brief pause, he assured Nelson that he would contact the Governor to check if he was aware of the arrest. As soon as Mason hung up, a nagging feeling lingered—something didn’t add up. If the Governor was indeed behind the arrest, it was a serious misstep. Mason couldn't shake the thought of how Douglas's arrest might negatively impact PortVarter. After ending the call, the station Chief, Nelson directed one of the officers, "Prepare a vehicle." Within minutes, a sleek black SUV pulled up, driven by Don, one of Nelson’s most reliable officers. Don stepped out and saluted sharply, his expression one of respectful curiosity. “Chief Nelson,” he said. “The vehicle is ready.” Nelson gestured for Douglas to enter first, then followed him inside. He took his place in the driver’s seat, and the vehicle roared to life.
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Meanwhile, at Venice airport, Linda Clarke stepped out of her sleek, black luxury car. Dressed in an elegant crimson gown that shimmered under the airport lights, her high heels clicked rhythmically against the polished floors. She exuded confidence and poise. as she walked toward the VIP lounge to greet Marvin Drake, the eldest son of the powerful Drake family. Marvin was already waiting; his tailored suit emphasized his tall frame and sharp features. His confident smirk grew as he spotted Linda approaching. As the son of one of Sierra's most influential families, Marvin knew this alliance was his golden ticket. Taking over PortVarter would be a shortcut to more wealth and political prestige, propelling him into the upper echelons of power. “Linda,” he greeted warmly, extending his hand. “Marvin,” she replied with a dazzling smile, shaking his hand before leaning in for a brief air kiss on each cheek. "Welcome to PortVarter!” After exchanging pleasantries, Lin
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However, before Armand could finish his sentence, his words were cut short by Linda. “What does Douglas have to do with our dinner?”"Why would you ruin our mood by mentioning that criminal's name?" Linda snapped, her voice sharp and biting."Criminal?" Armand blinked in confusion.How could Douglas Garnett be called a criminal? Had they understood who he was talking about?"Haven't you heard the news?" Linda narrowed her eyes.Armand stammered, looking even more confused. "What... news?""I'm talking about the renowned Douglas Garnett who saved PortVarter..."Linda let out a sarcastic laugh."Look it up yourself. Douglas is a criminal involved in numerous crimes! He is nothing more than a dog we took in out of kindness.""Don't tell me you actually believe the ridiculous rumours about him—that he's some great leader who saved PortVarter..."Linda leaned back in her chair, a glass of expensive wine in hand, as she continued her tirade. "Let's be clear," she sneered, narrowing he
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The air in the room grew tense as all eyes turned to Lieutenant Governor, Mason.His stern gaze swept across the room, settling on Linda, Governor Clarke, and Marvin. “Who was foolish enough to suggest framing Douglas Garnett with charges of corruption, bribery, and prostitution?”Mason demanded, his tone sharp and accusatory.Linda, seated confidently beside her father, raised her chin defiantly. "Those charges are legitimate,” she snapped. “We have irrefutable evidence to prove it.”Mason's piercing gaze locked onto hers, and his lips curled into a cold sneer. "Evidence? Then show it to me,” he said, his voice laced with derision. “Produce this so-called proof that you've concocted to tarnish the name of the man who rebuilt this state from the ashes.”Linda's bravado faltered. Her face flushed, and her hands clenched into fists on the table. “Well?” Mason pressed, his tone growing sharper. “I'm waiting.”Linda opened her mouth to speak, but no words came. The silence that
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The tension in the dining hall reached its peak as Stewart and Marvin's expressions darkened upon hearing Lieutenant Governor Mason's cutting remarks. Linda shifted uncomfortably in her seat, glancing nervously between her father and Marvin. Stewart, his face flushed with anger, stood abruptly and slammed his fist against the table, causing the silverware to rattle.“How dare you speak to me like this, Mason!”He barked, his voice filled with indignation. “You think some uneducated, talentless orphan like Douglas Garnett is indispensable? Let me remind you that without my mercy, that man wouldn't even be alive today.”Mason, unshaken by the governor's outburst, crossed his arms and raised an eyebrow. His disdain was palpable. “Mercy, you say? Mercy didn’t build PortVarter’s roads or stabilize its economy. Mercy didn’t drive ‘The Baddie’ back across the border or save countless lives in this state. Mercy didn’t achieve a GDP of 20 trillion. Those accomplishments belong to Douglas
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Late that night, Chief Nelson drove the black SUV to the base of Maccano Mountain.The deeper they drove, the louder the faint rumble of gunfire echoed from the distant border.This region was always tense!The residents who lived here endured sleepless nights, flinching at the sound of gunfire, never knowing when conflict might sprout up again. But one thing had remained constant over the years: as long as Douglas Garnett oversaw PortVarter, the turmoil from beyond the border never truly crossed into the land. His presence held enough weight to keep certain forces at bay.Before alighting from the vehicle, Nelson felt a little uneasy about Douglas's safety.The whole area was too quiet—eerily so.Nelson had brought along a handful of trusted subordinates to escort Douglas.They scanned the darkened streets with their trained eyes before stepping out of the car. “Stay alert!” Nelson instructed them as he rounded the vehicle and opened the door for Douglas.Douglas stepped out calm
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In unison, the heavily armed personnel turned their heads toward Douglas. Then, in perfect synchrony, they saluted.The silence now felt thunderous. Nelson’s subordinates, equally shocked, exchanged bewildered glances. Their eyes snapped toward Douglas, who stood calm and unperturbed as though the display was nothing out of the ordinary."Sir…?" Nelson whispered, uncertain of what to say. He was filled with confusion!He wondered what kind of hidden identity Douglas possessed that made him command such reverence in the most dangerous region of PortVarter!However, Douglas remained still with his eyes sweeping the formal assembly before him. His gaze, as sharp as a blade, held the soldiers' attention like a magnet!Finally, in a calm and unwavering voice, he spoke,“Did ‘The Baddie’ at the border have a change of heart?” Douglas's voice was neither mocking nor harsh—it carried a quiet authority that seemed to demand answers without force. “Has he decided to break his promise not
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This time, another set of armed forces, wearing the distinct marks of rival warlords, stood silently on either side of the road. Each soldier had lowered their weapons and stood with heads bowed in eerie unison.Their gazes fixed downward as if avoiding eye contact with something—or someone—they dared not offend.“What is this…?” Nelson muttered to himself.Normally, this place was one of chaos—an unspoken battlefield where skirmishes between warlord factions erupted almost daily. Yet today, the landscape was unnaturally calm with armed forces seen all over the place!Nelson’s subordinates exchanged uneasy glances, their hands itching for the comfort of their weapons. Whatever power Douglas held here extended far beyond anything they had anticipated.At the summit of Maccano Mountain, frost covered every inch of the ground. A sharp wind howled through the craggy peaks, cutting like a blade. The convoy came to a stop, and Douglas stepped out first. Nelson and his men followed cau
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Nelson sat rigidly in the driver’s seat, his hands gripping the wheel so tightly that his knuckles had turned white!He didn’t dare to speak, let alone suggest one of his subordinates take over.The drive down Maccano Mountain was silent, save for the soft hum of the engine and the rhythmic crunch of gravel beneath the tyres. As Nelson glanced at the road ahead, he noticed Henry at the base of the mountain, upright, solemn, exuding an air of unshakable authority, as though awaiting their departure. Behind him stretched a long line of armed personnel. Their weapons slung across their chests as they stood like statues, two neat rows on either side of the road.Nelson’s hair stood on end, his throat tightening as he felt a little fear with the way they were all gathered.They all stood as loyal sentinels, their eyes trained forward, unmoving.Suddenly, a powerful, synchronized shout rang through the crisp mountain air, startling Nelson so badly that he nearly slammed on the brakes.“
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Linda froze.Douglas’s… fiancée?Her heart sank.Douglas had moved on.And the woman standing before her was everything Linda wasn’t.Beautiful, Powerful!Linda felt small. The woman's name was Natasha.Natasha wasn’t just anyone—she was the woman Douglas's late parents had chosen to be his wife a decade ago. She was from a distinguished high-class family in the national capital, one whose reputation preceded her.And now, she was here, standing beside Douglas like she belonged.Linda clenched her fists, her jealousy threatening to consume her.The woman leaned in, her voice low but deadly."Don’t you dare raise your hand against my man again."Linda yanked her hand away, her shame twisting into rage."How pathetic," Natasha said coolly, watching Linda with undisguised contempt.Before Linda could respond, a sharp, stinging pain exploded across her cheek.Natasha had slapped her.The sound echoed in the room.Linda gasped with her hand flying to her cheek in shock."You dare insult a
Chapter 66
Stewart sat hunched over his desk with his hands trembling as he flipped through lists of names. He had called every law enforcement agency in PortVarter State, issued threats, and demanded action. Nothing changed!Crime continued to surge—kidnappings, street violence, and orchestrated attacks plagued the cities. Entire neighborhoods were becoming ungovernable, and even the police were terrified to patrol some areas.His calls with police chiefs and county sheriffs were tense and fruitless!"Governor Clarke, our hands are tied. We don’t have the manpower.""The criminals outnumber us, sir. We are outgunned.""We need leadership, Governor, not just orders."Stewart slammed his phone down. His face darkened with frustration.He had even tried reaching out to previous top officials—men and women known for their competence before Douglas Garnett was imprisoned. Some had resigned in protest, while others had been unceremoniously fired by Stewart when he took over.Stewart called them, one
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The governors exchanged glances.Javier Drake had spoken, but rather than swaying the room in Marvin and Stewart’s favor, his words only deepened the suspicion.“Obviously, you're only protecting your son,” someone whispered.“You're delusional if you think you can talk your way out of this mess!” another sneered.Javier could see it—if he didn’t act fast, Marvin would be kicked out of power. He couldn’t let that happen!Clearing his throat, he straightened his suit and squared his shoulders. If mere words wouldn’t be enough, he had to reshape the narrative."Gentlemen, let me remind you of something," Javier began with a smooth and deliberate voice.He gestured towards the chamber, his eyes locking onto each governor one by one."If Mr Garnett was truly the one holding PortVarter together, then why did nothing happen the moment he was arrested? It's been over a month, and during that time, there was peace. It wasn’t until recently that this sudden explosion of violence occurred."Som
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The Presidential Spokesperson, Ambassador Howard Greer, sat at the head of the long, imposing conference table.His face was grim and his eyes locked onto Stewart and Marvin who sat stiffly in their chairs.The room was tense—filled with high-ranking officials, governors from various states, federal ministers, and key stakeholders.The national emergency meeting had been called because of the chaos in PortVarter.Ambassador Greer cleared his throat.His voice was cold and authoritative as it echoed through the chamber."Gentlemen! I must say that the events in PortVarter over the past few days have been nothing short of catastrophic."The room was dead silent as he continued."The level of insecurity we are witnessing is unprecedented! Never in recent history has PortVarter fallen into such chaos. And let’s be honest—this descent into anarchy began the moment Mr Douglas Garnett was removed from power."Murmurs spread across the room.Stewart’s jaw tightened while Marvin gritted his te
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Seeing the armed men approach, Marvin’s pulse pounded in his ears as he flung open the back door of his office and slipped into the chaotic streets.Gunfire and screaming filled the air.He barely had time to process what was happening. Survival was all that mattered now.He ducked low, weaving through the terrified crowds, desperately searching for his car.Where the hell was it?His hands were shaking as he reached into his pocket, fumbling for his keys.Then he saw it—his black SUV, parked in an alleyway just a few feet ahead.Without hesitation, he bolted for it.Just as he yanked the door open, a gunshot cracked behind him.Too close!Marvin threw himself inside, slammed the door shut, and hit the gas.As he sped away, his heart thundered.Back inside Marvin’s inner office, two officials huddled together, their bodies trembling with fear.The gunfire outside was relentless.They whispered among themselves, unsure whether to make a run for it or stay put.Then, suddenly—The door
Chapter 62
The news echoed in Stewart's ears—PortVarter was overrun with chaos, and now Ricano Town was in a full-blown crisis.Stewart stood motionless, his mind numb with shock.Kidnappings, armed robbery, business establishments burgled, and security in shambles.His grip loosened, and his phone slipped from his hands, clattering onto the floor.This wasn’t just a problem.This was a disaster.The federal government would hear about this and the people of the state would see him as a failure!The fragile reputation he had worked so hard to maintain was now on the brink of ruin.And where the hell was Todd, the Chief of Ricano County’s Police Department?He had boldly declared that he needed only one day to fix the issue.It had been three days.Nothing had improved.Everything had collapsed!Stewart’s blood boiled.If he ever saw Todd again, he’d cut off his head himself—just as Todd had vowed to offer his own head if he failed.Fuming, Stewart snatched his phone from the floor and dialed Tod
Chapter 61
The underground tunnel was eerily silent, except for the sound of Todd’s ragged breathing. His legs felt like lead as his head pounded from the sudden temperature change. Phileo stood in front of him, gripping his laser gun with a cold and unreadable expression. “You’ve got some nerve, Captain,” Phileo finally said with his voice full of sarcasm. “Coming this close to our territory!" Todd felt a chill run down his spine. Before he could respond, Phileo struck. Crack! The butt of the gun slammed into Todd’s skull with brutal force. Todd’s vision blurred as pain exploded in his head. He stumbled backward, collapsing onto the hard concrete floor. His hands scrambled for support, but the world spun. From above, Phileo’s shadow loomed over him. “I’ll ask once,” Phileo said with his voice dripping with malice. “What the hell are you doing here?” Todd’s throat went dry. Phileo’s expression was terrifying—pure, controlled fury! Todd knew that this man had killed cou
Chapter 60
Todd sat alone under the withering shade of the tree, drenched in sweat.Now, his throat was parched, and his mind was on the verge of collapse!The scorching sun blazed down mercilessly with its rays slicing through the air like knives. He could barely keep his eyes open as every breath he took was thick with dust and heat.But he couldn't leave.No matter how much his body screamed for relief, he had no choice but to endure.If this mission failed, Stewart would have his hide.Still, the longer he waited, the more something felt off.Why hadn't Nath come yet?His subordinates had all deserted him, leaving him alone to suffer.Had Nath—**had all of Ricano—**decided to turn against him?Todd let out a harsh, dry chuckle.It wouldn't surprise him.However, just when he thought he couldn't hold on any longer, a shadow loomed over him.A figure stood before him, holding a cheap-looking plastic bottle.It was Nath!Todd's bloodshot eyes narrowed.“You look like hell, Captain.” Nath grinn
Chapter 59
Before Phileo could recover, a police officer hurried in, saluting Douglas."Sir, we have detained Phileo’s family and the families of the others on the list. The next phase of the operation is ready."A surge of horror shot through Phileo.His family—his children!He clenched his fists."You’re using my children as leverage?" he spat, his voice thick with rage.Douglas finally smirked, but it was a cold, merciless expression."Don’t act righteous, Phileo."His voice was razor-sharp."Your son's food, his clothing, his education—every penny came from blood money! Innocent people suffered, died, so your family could live in comfort."Phileo had no words.Because he knew it was true.For years, he had justified his actions, told himself he was only doing what was necessary to survive.But now, when the tables had turned—He realized how powerless he truly was.Finally, after what felt like an eternity, he exhaled shakily."Fine."His voice was barely above a whisper."I’ll hand them ove
