The guard was about to protest further, but Jason waved him off. There was no need to quibble over this point. Let her believe what she wanted."Grandmother, let me escort you inside. Why didn't you inform us of your visit? I could have come to receive you properly," Jason offered."Hmph! As if a good-for-nothing like you would have such good intentions. I suspect you'd have preferred I never came at all!""And receive me? Who knows where you might have taken me with your ill intentions? I came straight to the doorstep so no one could hinder me," Old Mrs. Martinez declared haughtily.Jason shook his head with a wry smile. He wondered what Katherine Gonzales had told the old woman to make her so wary of them. While it was true they hadn't wished for her visit, now that she was here, how could they, as her descendants, be anything but filial?"By the way, why are you here to receive me? Where are my niece and my daughter?""Don't tell me they're avoiding me, refusing to show their faces
"Let's hear it then!" Jason inquired, his curiosity evident.Sean hastened to reply, "According to them, Lotus Thirteen recently obtained a lead regarding the jade pendant. Apparently, tomorrow at the Emerald City Auction House, the final lot - the pièce de résistance - is none other than a jade pendant. It's being touted as a Mystical Object!""Lotus Thirteen has already made preparations to acquire the jade pendant. The intel seems highly credible!""Is that so?" Jason's brow furrowed in contemplation.To be frank, this wasn't exactly good news. While they now had a lead, the pendant's appearance at an auction would inevitably draw attention to it, making it far more difficult to acquire it at a bargain price.It was akin to stumbling upon a rare find at an antique market; once recognized, it would become a prize for the highest bidder.Inevitably, there would always be those with a discerning eye."Mr. Lawrence has just had it verified. The information is accurate. Shall we join th
In the past, when they lived in that rundown apartment, Old Mrs. Martinez had refused to visit, finding it beneath her standards. But now, with this luxurious mansion, she had arrived uninvited. Would she decide to stay?"Return? Why should I leave? I've come here to let you care for me in my old age. What's the matter? Trying to get rid of me?" The old woman fixed James Brown with an icy stare.If it weren't for the Brown family's status, she wouldn't even bother with this useless son-in-law."No... of course not. It's our duty. We're glad you're happy here," James Brown hastily replied, while inwardly breaking into a cold sweat. His future suddenly looked bleak.The thought of having to live with this intimidating, mercenary mother-in-law filled him with dread. Every day would feel like a torment in hell!Even Mary Martinez's smile faltered. How had things come to this?The couple exchanged a glance, sighing in resignation."Ah, well..."Not long after, Susan returned from the compa
Ever since Old Mrs. Martinez's arrival, the household had been in disarray. Rumor had it she planned to stay indefinitely, which was even more vexing.Sending her away would be unfilial!Yet allowing her to stay meant enduring her constant derision of Jason, harassment of Susan, and berating of James Brown, leaving the house in perpetual chaos.As Jason pondered this dilemma, he received an unexpected text message: "I have the pendant. If you want it back, come to Room 306 at the last hotel on Seaside Road. I'll be waiting!""Hmm?" Jason was taken aback. A hotel? Who sent this message? Had they picked up the jade pendant?Something about the text seemed off."Could it be... a trap?"Jason frowned, forwarding the address to Lawrence and his team, instructing them to investigate cautiously on his behalf.If the jade pendant was indeed there, they were to retrieve it!Just then, a man in sunglasses noticed him and approached with a retinue of bodyguards. Looking down his nose at Jason, h
Perhaps riding this wave of interest, several wealthy buyers began bidding fervently, quickly pushing the price to $3 million.By Jason's estimate, $2 million would have been a high price for these red agate beads. The current bid far exceeded their value. The auction house clearly knew how to capitalize on trends.At that moment, he noticed Gerald White enter, his face a mask of frost, eyes fixed coldly on Jason.James Brown, who had been enjoying the spectacle, suddenly felt uncomfortable under that gaze. He shifted uneasily, unable to contain himself. "What did you say to him earlier? Why does he seem to hate you so much? Aren't you just causing trouble for yourself?"Jason remained impassive. Indeed, he had deliberately provoked Gerald White, curious to see how Eldoria City's White family would react.It had been some time since his return from Metropolis Central, and the White family had been suspiciously quiet, not even sending their usual assassins. He wondered what they were p
Lotus Thirteen also scoffed, "No money, yet daring to pose as a big spender. Know your place. Did you think this was child's play where you could speak frivolously?"Henry Murphy raised an eyebrow in surprise, a look of intrigue crossing his face. He sensed a whiff of gunpowder in the air.But Julia Stewart of the Stewart family came to Jason's defense: "Why does this sound like a pack of dogs yapping incessantly? I, on behalf of the Stewart family, will underwrite all of Mr. Gray's bids today. Whatever Mr. Gray fancies, he may purchase.""Does anyone have any objections?"The Stewart family heiress's declaration instantly silenced many. With someone backing the bids, what more could be said?The Stewart family indeed possessed such influence and wealth!James Brown and Emily, however, wore peculiar expressions. What connection did Jason have with the Stewart family to warrant such generosity?Jason could finally breathe easier. He shook his head with a wry smile, not anticipating suc
James Brown also breathed a sigh of relief. His heart had nearly leapt out of his chest moments ago. He knew this good-for-nothing was merely indulging in the thrill of bidding, though he had to admit it felt rather satisfying.Just then, the cheongsam-clad beauty, her face glowing, pointed to an exquisite jade box and announced, "Next up is the highlight of tonight's auction, our grand finale - a jade pendant, another precious Mystical Object..."But before she could finish, Jason interrupted boldly, "No need for further words. Let the battle begin. $100 million!""$100 million?"The crowd gasped in shock, their eyes widening in disbelief.Had he lost his mind? Without even seeing the item clearly, he'd bid $100 million straight away. Was his family running a money printing press?James Brown's body shook violently, causing him to spew his coffee. He nearly crawled under his chair. $100 million? He might not see that much money in this lifetime, or even the next!Madness! This good-f
Jason pondered for a moment but didn't speak. Although he wanted the jade pendant, purchasing wasn't his only option.For instance, if Gerald White was determined to oppose him, letting him buy it would mean two jade pendants in one location - essentially delivering treasures to Jason's doorstep.If someone wanted to buy things for him, why should Jason object? He could simply wait for the delivery.He still had unfinished business with the White family of Eldoria City!Clearly, the young White scion was oblivious to being targeted. At that moment, he was anxious, his eyes bloodshot."Hurry up, what's the hold-up? Conclude it quickly...""$130 million once, $130 million twice..." As the cheongsam-clad beauty's excited and measured voice rang out, she proclaimed, "$130 million...""Wait! I bid $150 million!" A sudden voice interrupted the proceedings.The crowd was stunned. Was there a hidden tycoon among them?The young White scion was so enraged he kicked the table, shattering it. Wh
"Thud! Thud! Thud!"A series of dull impacts resounded through the room, accompanied by cries of pain. Bodyguards were sent flying with single slaps or kicked into walls, the scene utter chaos.In moments, over a dozen guards lay incapacitated. Even Bennett found himself on the receiving end of a devastating punch to the chest, sent flying as he coughed up blood."Who... who are you? It's impossible... How can someone so young possess such formidable skills? Cough... ugh..." Bennett struggled to speak through his pain.Jason was undoubtedly the youngest Martial Arts Master he had ever encountered, and easily among the top ten in skill."My name is Jason. I warned you: harm her, and you'd face a gruesome end. The Murphy family will pay dearly for this transgression." Jason's cold voice accompanied his methodical approach.He made no move to pursue Henry Murphy. There was no need—the man couldn't truly escape. Even if he fled Central Area, Jason could drag him back."Jason? Jackson! You
Jason, his face a mask of cold fury, tightened his grip on Henry Murphy's throat. He addressed Bennett, "The tables have turned. Your choices are simple: mutual destruction or her release. Decide."His grip tightened further, nearly crushing Henry Murphy's windpipe. The young heir's face turned an alarming shade of purple as he struggled for air."Quickly... cough cough... save... save me..." Henry Murphy choked out desperately.Henry Murphy never anticipated falling into such a trap. He had dismissed Jason entirely, viewing him as nothing more than a notorious weakling. Who could have foreseen that he was actually a formidable opponent?A grave miscalculation indeed.This young man was far from ordinary.Alas, this realization came too late. Two powerful fingers now threatened to crush his windpipe at any moment."Stop... stop this, you scoundrel! If you dare harm our young master, the Murphy family will annihilate your entire Brown family. You'll all perish!" Bennett roared in threa
Her venomous words dripped with contempt, a stark contrast to her recent pleas for mercy. It was Jason who had shown her kindness then, advising her to disappear. Clearly, his words had fallen on deaf ears.Perhaps the allure of wealth and status proved too strong to resist.Henry Murphy, disdaining further dialogue, fixed Jason with an intense gaze. "I hear you possess jade pendants of a particular hue. Moreover, you seem to understand their significance and have been collecting them. Excellent. Hand them all over to me.""Such high-grade Mystical Objects are beyond the likes of you. Cooperate, and if I'm feeling generous, I might spare your miserable life.""Jade pendants?" Jason's pupils constricted as he suddenly turned his piercing gaze towards Ashley, murderous intent radiating from him."It was you. You told him!"The revelation stunned him. This wretched woman had not only betrayed his kindness but had also sold him out.Ashley's knowledge of the jade pendants was no surprise
"Cough... cough!"Susan coughed with difficulty as the gag fell away. She gazed at the frenzied, sharp-tongued Ashley, shaking her head with a complex expression. "You're mistaken. I've never tried to compete with you. This is all in your imagination.""Besides, no matter how envious you are, it shouldn't drive you to such extremes. Do you truly harbor such hatred towards me?"Had Ashley not confessed, Susan might never have imagined that envy could transform someone so drastically, leading them down this irredeemable path of ruthlessness."Hmph, spare me your false sympathy. In my eyes, you're nothing but a contemptible wretch. If I hadn't caught you, would you be uttering these words so meekly? You're probably gloating inside!""Let me tell you this: you'll never rise above me again. You belong beneath my feet, nothing more than a lowly creature!"Ashley sneered through gritted teeth.As she raised her hand to strike again, another resounding slap echoed through the room. However, t
Jason's face turned frosty, his teeth clenched as he spoke, "I swear, if you harm a single hair on her head, I will annihilate your entire lineage. No matter who you are or what your status might be, do not underestimate my capabilities or my resolve.""State your demands clearly. Whatever you want, I'll provide. But if you provoke me... you will regret it immensely."He spoke while barely containing his fury, utterly shocked by this turn of events. With the enemy holding the upper hand, he rapidly tried to deduce their identity.The voice was vaguely familiar, but not entirely recognizable. Who would dare to be so bold?Lotus Thirteen? Or had Justin Wesley arrived in Emerald City to make his move? No, it seemed too soon; he hadn't fully inherited the Wesley family yet.But if not them, then who? Matt Turner or Gerald White? He had certainly made quite a few enemies recently."Heh, such big words, Mr. Gray. Why don't we continue this conversation when you arrive? The last hotel on Sea
No matter how Mary Martinez explained or pleaded, it had no effect. The old lady simply ignored her.It was as if she was saying, "Just wait and see in three days!"Aunt Diaz was alarmed. If the old lady were to cause such a commotion, what would become of Susan and Mary Martinez's reputations?Soon after, James Brown returned home with Susan. Upon hearing about the $100,000 allowance demand, they were stunned. Good heavens, they knew the old lady would be trouble."What... what should we do? Try to talk her out of it, or send her back home. If she keeps carrying on like this, we won't be able to live here anymore," James Brown said, rubbing his temples."Easy for you to say. Why don't you do it? I promise I'll support you, but I don't want to be labeled as unfilial," Mary Martinez retorted, her lips twisted in a grimace. She had already talked herself hoarse trying to reason with her mother.Seeing the situation, Jason furrowed his brow. If Susan was in a difficult position, he could
"What do you understand? Listen carefully: from now on, whenever you see Gray divine physician, you must show the utmost respect. Never offend him, or even the Parker family won't be able to protect you!" Leonard Wood warned her gravely.Stephanie Parker, thoroughly frightened, nodded repeatedly...Meanwhile, Jason had returned home, where Old Mrs. Martinez was inevitably causing a scene again, making everyone uncomfortable. However, given her status, no one could say anything."A good-for-nothing loafer who's busier than my granddaughter. What's going on? Is everyone avoiding me? Do you all want this old woman to live out her days in loneliness?" Old Mrs. Martinez's voice dripped with sarcasm.Jason and Grace Diaz could only sigh inwardly as they served her tea, cut fruit, and attended to her every whim to avoid further complaints."Mom, what are you saying? I'm here to keep you company, aren't I? We don't need to pay any attention to that useless fellow. Out of sight, out of mind -
Stephanie Parker and the onlookers were struck dumb, their eyes wide and jaws hitting the floor in sheer disbelief.This seemingly ordinary individual had managed to make Uncle Wood bow his head. What was going on? What kind of background did he have? What was his story? Had the world gone mad?Even Kelly Harris, who knew of Jason's exceptional medical skills, was left speechless at the sight before her. She gaped at the nonchalant Jason, unable to comprehend the scale of his influence that commanded the reverence of hundreds.While others might not grasp the full significance, as a medical student, Kelly understood perfectly. These were the cream of the crop in the medical field, each capable of being the crown jewel of any major hospital.One person alone could sustain an entire hospital!Over a hundred such individuals - can you imagine the impact? It was as if half the medical world was trembling before him!"This... this..."As everyone stood in shock, Jason turned to Roger Cox,
"As if! You can't even get in yourself, and you have the audacity to make such an offer? Have you no shame?" Kelly Harris rolled her eyes, clearly unconvinced.But Stephanie Parker just smirked. "Clearly, you don't know me well enough. My family, the Parkers, are part of the Medical Family. If I choose to reveal my identity, getting in there would be as easy as strolling through my own backyard. Many of the medical geniuses in there even know me personally.""Do you think this Chinese Medicine Conference could keep me out now? Well, do you believe me now?" she boasted.She had never revealed this information before. Even her admirers and followers were unaware of her prestigious background."You're from the Medical Family?" Jason was surprised, not expecting to encounter two members in one day.Kelly Harris was even more shocked. This was the first time she had heard about this. She never imagined that her insufferable rival was from such an esteemed background. No wonder Stephanie ha