The Reign of Zane Gardner

Chapter 12 Power and Persistence

Under the dim, illuminating streetlights, a man dressed in a luxurious suit stepped out of his sleek car.

His blonde hair glimmered in the faint light, and he leaned against the side of his car with a relaxed yet authoritative air. His eyes, sharp and discerning, were fixed on Zane, and a sly smile tugged at the corners of his lips.

The sound of slow, mocking applause reverberated through the quiet street. Zane Gardner stood his ground, his wary gaze fixed on the uninvited stranger.

A rich voice, full of sarcasm, spoke up. "Hahaha, what an incredible display of combat, Mr. Gardner."

Zane's suspicions were correct - this man had to be behind the attack. His voice remained composed as he asked, "So, you were the one who sent them? And who might you be?"

The stranger's grin grew wider and he nonchalantly leaned against a nearby car, crossing his legs. "Ah, it seems my initial assessment of you was spot on. I am a well-known figure among the wealthy elite of this city, yet somehow you remain ignorant of my name. How intriguing."

As he approached, his eyes narrowed and his features twisted into an angry scowl, the mischievous glimmer in his eye replaced by an undeniable surge of rage.

Zane could sense the strength of his hostile glare, and was not taken aback by the sudden transformation in his demeanor.

"So, the question is," he snarled, barely able to contain his temper, "who exactly are you, Zane Gardner?"

His voice was thick with indignation, his animosity towards Zane’s abrupt entrance to their exclusive circle apparent.

Yet the warning in his tone was unmistakable. “This is your last caution,” he continued, his speech laced with menace. “Keep away from Claire and her family. You don't deserve to be part of her world, she belongs to me.”

He stepped closer to Zane. “If you disobey me, you won’t find me forgiving.”

Zane didn't flinch or yield. With unrelenting determination, he met the other man's gaze. “I don't accept orders from anyone,” he said firmly. “And nobody has the power to decide who I should or should not socialize with.”

It was an audacious statement, but one that expressed his autonomy and refusal to be dominated by others.

Ronald's anger only intensified with this rebuttal. "Don't test my patience," Ronald growled, his voice trembling with rage. "I can be much crueler than this."

Zane merely responded with a casual, "Sure, do whatever you want." His composed attitude was in stark contrast to Ronald's heated state.

Cedric was rooted to the spot, watching the scene with bated breath.

Realizing Zane's superior fighting capabilities, Ronald relinquished his grip. He slowly rotated to face his vehicle, his expression filled with resentment.

He paused for a moment before entering the car, and then delivered a swift, frustrated kick to one of his fallen cohorts, uttering a few choice words under his breath, "You, stupid!"

As Ronald drove away, Zane straightened his shirt, not a single wrinkle having been disturbed by the encounter.

Cedric, who had been silently watching, finally spoke up. “Master, that was Ronald Baxter, the sole heir of the Baxter Family. They have a great deal of influence in Sunhaven City.”

Zane nodded, his expression determined. “I fear no one, Cedric, as long as I stay true to what is right.”

Cedric stared at Zane, admiration in his eyes. “Of course, Master,” he replied, his voice full of respect for Zane’s unwavering principles. The events of the night had not only demonstrated Zane’s physical strength, but also his unshakable moral fortitude and integrity.

***

The morning ushered in a new day with its bright and invigorating embrace, greeting Zane with optimism. He was determined to use this peaceful moment for meditation, an activity that was essential for increasing his cultivation level.

As Zane prepared himself for meditation, a knock at the door disturbed his initial moments of peacefulness.

"Come in," he declared with a steady and welcoming voice.

The door opened softly, and Cecilia stepped in gracefully and respectfully.

"Master, I want to talk something."

Zane turned towards her, his eyes revealing a hint of curiosity. "Yes, Cecilia," he replied. "Is there something you wanted to tell me?" he asked, his intuition telling him that her visit was likely of some importance.

Cecilia approached him, her expression a mix of professionalism and a slight hint of concern. "Hm... the assistant of Mr. Scott just called me," she explained. “They are having a dinner next week and wanted to know if you will be able to attend."

Zane paused for a moment, considering the timing and his existing commitments. He knew the significance of the dinner invitation from Charles Scott; not only was it a gesture of gratitude but also an opportunity to build stronger connections.

"Yes, I will be there," he answered resolutely.

Cecilia nodded, a look of relief crossing her features. "Of course, Master," she said. "Establishing a close relationship with the Scott family will surely bring you many benefits. Have you seen Mr. Scott's only granddaughter? She is quite beautiful and charming, if I may say so."

Zane paused for a moment, then hesitantly answered, "Yes, I think so."

Cecilia chuckled at Zane's response. "In that case, Master, allow me to help you prepare everything you will need for the dinner," she offered.

"Thank you, Cecilia," Zane replied, appreciative of her assistance.

***

Zane started to climb the hill, not far from his house. He carried a heavy backpack filled with stones, weighing fifty kilograms, a sign of his commitment to both physical and mental strength.

Each step was a conscious effort that combined physical strength with mental focus. As Zane climbed, his mind was focused on his ambition of becoming a powerful cultivator, his thoughts inspired by his grandfather’s teachings and the legacy he had left behind.

"Grandfather, I vow to become a formidable cultivator before we can meet again," as a source of determination and inspiration.

Every day, Zane would meditate, and on the sixth day, just after he had completed his meditation, a soft buzzing sound reached his ears, growing steadily louder until a small dagger flew towards him.