"But I need to talk to you, Dirk," Rafael insisted.
"I've already told you. I don't have time!" Dirk snapped coldly.
Rafael was undeterred by Dirk's frosty demeanor. He knew that to get information from someone like Dirk, he had to be more persuasive. Rafael pulled out a chair and sat down across from Dirk without an invitation.
"I'm not here to talk about the past, Dirk. I'm here because there's something bigger we need to deal with. Something you might really like," Rafael said firmly.
Dirk stared at him for a long time, as if evaluating whether Rafael was serious or just looking for trouble. He leaned back in his chair and sighed.
"Oh, something I would like? What is it?" Dirk asked, intrigued by what Rafael might offer.
"I'm planning to start a digital company. And I'm hoping you'll help me and work with me," Rafael replied.
"Oh, start a company? What will I get out of it?" Dirk asked, giving Rafael a condescending look.
Rafael didn’t flinch at Dirk’s dismissive gaze. He knew that to convince this man, he had to offer more than just empty promises.
"If you're serious about getting back into business, this is a huge opportunity, Dirk. I have access to resources that can make this company thrive. And if everything goes well, you'll get a large share in the company. I’m not just offering a job, I’m offering power," Rafael answered confidently, his eyes fixed on Dirk.
Dirk smirked slightly when he heard the word "power." He swirled his glass, thinking hard. "A large share? Power? You think I'll fall for an offer like that?" he asked.
"People like you can’t even afford to start a company. Look at the clothes you're wearing—they’re cheaper than what I’m wearing," Dirk said, full of confidence. "Don’t drag me into your damn fantasy. Get out of here! Don’t waste my time!" he ordered.
Rafael remained calm, even though Dirk's mockery stung. He knew that to win over Dirk, he needed to be more convincing and show that he was more than just someone spouting nonsense.
With a firm voice, Rafael replied, "If you think wearing expensive clothes and having a bit of money makes you better, that's your business. But that won’t take you higher. You know that, Dirk. This company will thrive with or without you, but with you, our chances are much greater. You know exactly what it means to hold a large stake in a growing company."
Rafael stood up and walked closer to the table where Dirk sat. "Don’t be mistaken, I can show you how big this potential is. And if you reject it, I won’t waste too much time. But trust me, you’ll regret it," Rafael said, staring Dirk down.
Dirk looked at Rafael with sharp eyes, hesitating. There was a flicker of doubt in his gaze. "You think I'm scared of empty threats?" he asked, although this time there was some tension in his voice.
"This isn’t a threat, Dirk. This is the truth. I’ve seen many people like you, stuck in their comfort zones. You can choose to stay there or come with me and rise to a higher level. It’s up to you," Rafael replied, with full conviction. "Besides, you're not putting in any capital. Even if this venture fails, you won’t lose anything. I’ll still pay you, and I’ll pay you upfront."
Dirk paused for a few seconds, weighing his decision. Finally, he set his glass down and sighed. "Alright, tell me more about this plan," he said, his voice softer but still cautious.
Rafael smiled faintly, sensing that he finally had an opening to pull Dirk into his plan.
Rafael sat back down, more relaxed but still focused. "Okay, first of all, I’m building a digital company that will change the way people interact with technology. I’ve already prepared a lot of things, and what you need is just a bit of your expertise in management and strategy. You’ll be at the top, leading the department that oversees the entire direction of the company’s development."
Dirk furrowed his brow, looking deep in thought. "You want me to take over the managerial side? I know how to manage people and money, but you need to make sure there’s something solid behind this plan."
"Don’t worry," Rafael said confidently. "So far, I’ve identified the best opportunities and minimized the risks. I’ll show you more details later. What’s important now is that we move quickly before others find out what we’re up to. I also have access to enough capital to get started, so you don’t need to worry about that."
Dirk seemed more interested, though still cautious. "Okay, and what do you want from me besides the managerial role?"
"First, I need you to contact some people who can help with technology and development. People who have connections and can accelerate our process. Second, you’ll help organize the financial plans and strategies for the company. I’m sure your expertise will be very useful here."
Dirk leaned back and studied Rafael for a moment. "Alright, I’ll join, but you need to make sure this doesn’t turn into a failed project. I’m not playing around with this."
Rafael smiled more widely. "Don’t worry, Dirk. I’ve made sure everything’s in place. We’re going to succeed."
"Okay. I like your confidence," Dirk said.
Rafael pulled out a piece of paper from his pocket.
"Come to this address after you’ve gathered the people who can help us. And I hope it won’t take more than three days," Rafael said.
Dirk looked at the paper Rafael handed him, noting the address printed on it.
"Three days? That’s pretty fast. But if you think it can be done, I’ll give it a try," Dirk replied, folding the paper and putting it in his jacket pocket. "But I hope you won’t disappoint me, Rafael. I don’t like people who make empty promises."
Rafael nodded, a smile still on his face. "I won’t disappoint you, Dirk. Everything’s been arranged. Now it’s just about execution."
Dirk stood up, giving Rafael a pat on the shoulder, almost like a sign of approval. "Alright, let’s see if your plan goes the way you expect. I’ll contact the right people."
Rafael stood and gave a brief salute. "See you in three days, Dirk. I’ll be waiting for your update."
With that, Rafael left the bar and headed to his car, his mind spinning again. Dirk might not be the perfect ally, but right now, he was the only one who could help make Rafael’s big dreams come true. Now, all that was left was to wait and see if Dirk would keep his promise.

Related Chapters
Revenge System: From Betrayal to Pinnacle of Glory Chapter 9 ~ The Unfortunate Man
"Oh my God, shopping for women's stuff is really annoying," Rafael complained, opening his phone. He asked the system for a list of women's items he could buy.The system displayed a list of women's items available for purchase, along with various options Rafael could select.Women's Items:Clothing: • Evening dresses • Blouses and skirts • Casual wear • Jackets and outerwear Shoes and sandalsAccessories: • Handbags • Jewelry (necklaces, rings, bracelets) • Sunglasses • Watches • Scarves and headbandsSelf-care: • Skincare (face cream, serums, toners) • Perfume • Makeup tools (foundation, lipstick, mascara) • Haircare tools (combs, hairdryers)Health Supplies: • Vitamins and supplements • Exercise equipment (yoga mats, dumbbells)Gadgets & Electronics: • Smartwatches • Earphones • Cameras or beauty gadgetsThe system also offered a filter feature to help Rafael choose based on budget and style."Is there something specific you're looking for, or do you want to pick randomly?" the sys
Revenge System: From Betrayal to Pinnacle of Glory Chapter 10 ~ The Mysterious Man
Knock! Knock! Knock!Upon hearing the knocking sound, Elena peeked through the window, holding a bat in her hand. When she realized it was Rafael, she quickly opened the bedroom door, allowing him to enter while supporting an unconscious and seriously injured man.“Who is he? Did you hit someone?” Elena asked in surprise.“Tsk... Don’t be quick to judge. I found him in the middle of the road. Help me lay him down quickly,” Rafael said.Elena immediately straightened the sofa and placed a pillow at the end. Rafael gently laid the man on the sofa and sighed heavily.“Ugh, he’s heavy,” he complained as he sat on the single sofa.“He’s seriously injured. What really happened, Rafael?” Elena asked, looking at him.“I don’t know… I found him lying on the road. He asked for my help but forbade me from taking him to the hospital,” Rafael answered.“Do you have anything, like a first aid kit?” Elena asked.“I think I have one in the car. Wait here,” Rafael said, standing up and heading outside
Revenge System: From Betrayal to Pinnacle of Glory Chapter 11 ~ Opportunity
"I need to ask the system," Rafael muttered.Rafael quickly grabbed his phone and activated the smart system he relied on. He pointed the phone's camera at the unconscious man in front of him, hoping the system could identify him. After a few seconds of scanning, the phone screen displayed surprising information.The man's name was Leonard Steele, a director and owner of a company on the brink of bankruptcy. Rafael read the details carefully. Leonard's company had previously been involved in technology, but due to fierce competition and poor management, the business was near collapse. However, something caught Rafael’s attention—Leonard had a reputation as a highly intelligent man with extensive knowledge in technology and business.Rafael paused in thought. This might not just be a coincidence. Leonard could be a valuable asset if Rafael could handle the situation wisely. With Leonard's experience and intelligence, Rafael believed the man could help him achieve his dream of establish
Revenge System: From Betrayal to Pinnacle of Glory Chapter 12 ~ The Figure of Leonard
"Ugh..." Leonard slowly opened his eyes, grimacing as he felt the pain in his stabbed abdomen.Seeing the unfamiliar room, he struggled to sit up."Where am I?" he muttered, wincing from the pain as he tried to rise."Oh, you're finally awake," said Elena, catching Leonard's attention. He turned to her with a startled look."Who are you?" Leonard asked.Elena walked calmly toward him, carrying a glass of water. "Relax. You're safe here," she said as she placed the glass on the small table beside the sofa. "My name's Elena. My friend, Rafael, brought you here. He found you injured on the road last night."Leonard furrowed his brows, trying to recall what had happened, but the pain clouded his thoughts. "Rafael? Who's he? And why did you bring me here?"Elena sighed, sensing Leonard's defensiveness. "You collapsed on the road, and Rafael couldn’t just leave you there. We brought you here because you refused to go to the hospital. Do you remember that?"Leonard gritted his teeth, trying
Revenge System: From Betrayal to Pinnacle of Glory Chapter 13 ~ Shopping Feature
"Alright, bro. We're heading out. You know, women always need to be understood," Rafael joked as he walked after Elena, leaving the house.As Rafael passed through the exit, Elena grabbed his collar and pulled him to a more secluded corner."Wow, what's this? You're being quite aggressive, Miss. Remember, we're not alone here," Rafael teased."Shut your mouth!" Elena snapped. "What do you mean by saying we're going to help that mysterious guy find his sister? Have you lost your mind, El? I'm a fugitive here too," Elena said sharply."Yeah, I forgot I'm currently housing troublesome fugitives," Rafael sighed. "If it weren't for the system, I wouldn't want to get involved with people like you," he thought to himself."I'm not going with you, El. We don't know what kind of enemies are after him and his sister. We don't even know who's right or wrong. What if we're helping a serial killer?" Elena questioned."You're watching too many movies," Rafael replied dismissively. "I'm helping him
Revenge System: From Betrayal to Pinnacle of Glory Chapter 14 ~ Searching for Ivory
That night, Rafael drove his black Jaguar at a moderate speed. In the front passenger seat, Leonard sat with a weakened body, but his gaze was filled with determination. In the back seat, Elena sat with her arms crossed, anxious and not entirely agreeing with this sudden decision.“We have to be cautious,” Elena said, glancing at Leonard. “I’m still not sure this is a good idea. Your condition hasn't fully recovered.”“I can’t wait any longer,” Leonard replied, his voice firm despite sounding tired. “If something happens to Ivory, I won’t be able to forgive myself.”Rafael glanced at the rearview mirror, making sure no vehicle was following them. “Alright, Leonard. But you have to trust me. If things look dangerous, we need to get out of there immediately. I’m not taking unnecessary risks.”Leonard nodded slowly, his eyes fixed on the road ahead. “I just want to make sure she’s safe. That’s all.”The atmosphere inside the car was filled with tense silence during the journey. Rafael tr
Revenge System: From Betrayal to Pinnacle of Glory Chapter 15 - Rafael's First Battle
Meanwhile, Rafael stood firm in the living room, ready to face the attackers."Okay, let's try that new skill," he muttered, getting into an attack stance.The first man, who was larger than the other, grinned widely, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "Don't even think about fighting back, kid. We just want what's ours," he said with a heavy, menacing voice.Rafael ignored the threat, trying to steady himself. This was no time to panic, he thought. I have to fight back. There’s no other choice.He took a deep breath, his eyes locked on the two men now standing just a few steps away. The system on his phone provided some assistance, displaying basic combat techniques he could apply in this situation."If you think I'll give up without a fight, you're wrong," Rafael said firmly. "I won't let you touch them."The second man, who was slimmer, burst into laughter. "Oh, this is getting interesting. Let's see how long you can last, kid."Rafael carefully positioned himself, engaging the com
Revenge System: From Betrayal to Pinnacle of Glory Chapter 16 ~ Rafael's Plan
Knock! Knock! Knock!Rafael opened the door to see Dirk standing there with another man.“Oh, you’re faster than I expected,” Rafael said.Dirk frowned as he looked around the building where Rafael was staying.“Rafael, you’re not messing with me, are you? I came all this way to put my trust in you. And what is this place?” Dirk asked, observing the old house with some parts already damaged and fragile.Rafael chuckled softly, rubbing the back of his neck. “Well, for now, we’ll discuss things here. Once we find a better place, we can move,” Rafael replied.Dirk let out a long sigh, folding his arms. “You know I’m not one to waste time, Rafael. If this turns out to be a trap or some ridiculous plan, I won’t hesitate to walk away.”The man accompanying Dirk stared sharply at Rafael, giving the impression that he was highly alert and well-trained.“Who are they?” the man asked, glancing at Leonard, Ivory, and Elena, who stood behind Rafael.“Comrades,” Rafael answered casually. “We all h
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Chapter 40
"Uncle, I really can't figure you out. Are you crazy, cunning, or a genius?" Sienna asked.Rafael smirked. "Maybe all three. But one thing's for sure—I don’t like anyone interfering with our business.""So... what's your plan to take over Black Wings?" Sienna asked."Manipulation," Rafael replied with a smile."Deceiving them? How?" Sienna grew even more curious."We’ll discuss it later at lunch with the others. Oh, by the way, is the grand opening party for the café still happening tonight?" Rafael asked."Yes, Elena and Dirk already went to buy lots of beer for the party," Sienna answered."Alright then, I'm going to take a shower first. See you at the dining table later," Rafael said before walking away.Sienna watched him leave. "That man is completely insane! What exactly is he planning?" she muttered. "Damn it, I'm too curious—and I actually want to be part of his plan."She descended the stairs, her mind still filled with the cunning schemes Rafael had just hinted at."Manipula
Chapter 39
"Uncle!" Sienna called out as she climbed up to the third floor, only to find Rafael working out in the gym, wearing only sweatpants, his upper body bare."What is it?" Rafael asked."You were looking for me. Why?" Sienna asked as she sat on one of the benches."Yeah, I have something to ask you. Just wait a moment. I'm not done yet. Sit tight and enjoy the beautiful view," Rafael said, continuing his workout."What a beautiful view! You're so skinny," Sienna teased."Hey! You perverted kid. I meant the aquarium beside you, dummy. There are fish in it—just watch them," Rafael replied."Why would I? I don’t even like colorful fish," Sienna retorted."Tsk... You really don’t understand beauty," Rafael muttered.Rafael finished his last set and wiped the sweat off his face with a towel. He walked over to Sienna and sat down on the bench across from her. "Alright, I'm done now. I want to ask you something."Sienna looked at Rafael curiously. "What is it?""You once said you were part of B
Chapter 38
"Martin, you're here?" Rafael greeted him as he saw the man enter their base."Yeah. You haven't gone to bed yet?" Martin asked, looking surprised."Not sleepy yet," Rafael replied. "Aren't you with Dirk?""No. Dirk went to see the suppliers," Martin answered.Rafael sat on a café chair near the barista counter. He poured a drink into a glass and handed it to Martin."Sit down for a bit," Rafael said, patting the chair beside him.Martin nodded and took the seat next to Rafael. He took the offered glass and sipped the drink. "Thanks," he murmured.The café was silent. Only the ticking of the clock and the faint rustling of the wind outside the window could be heard."You look exhausted," Rafael commented, studying Martin closely. "Is something wrong out there?"Martin let out a deep sigh, leaning back in his chair. "The survey went well. But that place is heavily guarded. Cameras everywhere. Their guards even use advanced communication devices."Rafael nodded slowly, his gaze sharp. "
Chapter 37
Rafael stepped out of his room upon hearing the commotion. He walked towards the cafe and was surprised to see several thugs there. The customers looked frightened, and Elena was seen arguing with them. Coincidentally, Dirk and Martin were out on an errand assigned by Rafael."What's going on?" Rafael asked as he approached Elena."They came demanding money, claiming they own this place," Elena explained."Who is he? Your boss?" one of the thugs asked arrogantly.Rafael casually put his hands in his pockets, his face remaining calm though his eyes radiated authority. "Yes, I own this place. And who are you to come here and cause trouble in my cafe?"One of the thugs stepped forward arrogantly, his broad shoulders and condescending gaze exuding dominance. "We control this area. If you want your business to run smoothly, pay us for protection," he said with a smirk.Rafael let out a soft chuckle, his eyes scanning the frightened customers. Some were already standing, ready to leave. He
Chapter 36
"El, wait a moment," Elena called out, stopping Rafael in his tracks. He turned to face her."Yes?" Rafael responded."I want to talk to you for a bit," Elena said."In that case, let's talk on the balcony," Rafael suggested. Elena nodded in agreement.They walked toward the balcony on the second floor and stood near the railing."This place is quite comfortable and quiet. Not too crowded or noisy," Rafael remarked.Elena gazed at the street near their shop. "Yes, at least it's a good place to hide," she replied."You're right. By the way, what did you want to talk to me about?" Rafael asked, turning to look at her."Oh, right. I wanted to ask if you're serious about your plan to establish a trade guild," Elena said. "We're fugitives, and you know NextWave's men are everywhere. We could be discovered," she continued. "And taking suppliers away from NextWave—that's going to be very difficult, right? What if those suppliers report us to them?"Rafael saw the worry and hesitation in Elen
Chapter 35
"So, is everyone here?" Rafael asked, looking at the people in front of him."Yes, we're all here," Elena replied."How was the café today? Still busy?" Rafael asked as he sat on a single chair right in front of them in the meeting room on the second floor."Yeah, to the point where my back feels like it's about to break," Elena complained."We might need more staff to manage the café. But we can’t just hire anyone carelessly," Rafael said."Get a chef too, Uncle. So we can eat good food," Sienna added.Rafael chuckled at Sienna’s complaint. "You, always thinking about good food, huh?"Sienna shrugged without guilt. "Well, better than eating whatever’s available every day. Besides, if the food is good, customers will want to stay longer at the café."Ivory nodded in agreement. "That’s true. Especially if we create a special menu exclusive to our café. That would be a major attraction."Rafael leaned back in his chair. "Alright, we'll look for a chef. But like I said, we can’t just hir
Chapter 34
Rafael was in his room, browsing the shopping feature in the system. Many new features had been unlocked after successfully completing several missions."Oh, there's a miraculous potion for rapid healing," he muttered, quickly purchasing the bottle to test its effects on his stab wound.Rafael picked up a small, dark blue bottle labeled "Rapid Healing Elixir." He frowned in curiosity as he observed the shimmering golden liquid inside."Wow, this looks like something out of a fantasy movie," he murmured while opening the bottle. A fresh, cooling scent immediately filled the air. Without hesitation, Rafael drank the potion. The taste was a mix of mint and honey, refreshing his throat.Instantly, he felt a warm sensation spreading from his stomach throughout his entire body. The pain in his shoulder gradually faded, and even the lingering soreness began to disappear. Rafael removed the bandage from his shoulder and was shocked to see that the once red and swollen stab wound had dried up,
Chapter 33
Rafael slowly opened his eyes. He looked around the room and realized he was in his bedroom."Ugh!" he grimaced as he tried to sit up from his reclined position."Have I been unconscious since last night?" Rafael muttered as he struggled to get up, though his shoulder still throbbed with pain.Dirk, who had just entered the room, immediately approached him."Don't move too much, Raf. Your shoulder wound hasn't fully healed yet," he said in a firm tone.Rafael smirked, though his face tensed from the pain. "Looks like I'm still alive, huh?""Lucky for you. Otherwise, Sienna might have gone to the afterlife just to hunt you down," Dirk joked, his eyes filled with relief.Rafael chuckled weakly, his laughter slightly strained. "That kid really can't stay calm."Dirk sat back in his chair. "She's stubborn but she cares about you. Elena was just as worried. You guys caused a huge mess last night, didn't you?"Rafael stared at the ceiling with a serious expression. "Yeah, but at least we go
Chapter 32
Rafael slowly opened his eyes. He looked around the room and realized he was in his bedroom."Ugh!" he groaned as he tried to get up from his lying position."Have I been unconscious since last night?" he murmured, struggling to sit up despite the sharp pain in his shoulder.Dirk, who had just entered the room, immediately approached him."Don’t move too much, Raf. Your shoulder injury hasn’t fully healed yet," he said firmly.Rafael smirked, though his face tensed from the pain. "Looks like I’m still alive, huh?""Lucky for you. Otherwise, Sienna might have stormed into the afterlife to hunt you down," Dirk joked, relief evident in his eyes.Rafael chuckled weakly, though his laughter was broken and strained. "That kid never knows how to relax."Dirk sat back in his chair. "She’s stubborn, but she cares about you. Elena was just as worried. You guys caused a big mess last night, didn’t you?"Rafael stared at the ceiling with a serious expression. "Yeah, but at least we have data that
