Late at night, Darnell chose not to return home or check on the Apex. Instead, he went to Vantage for a bath.
He needed to relax and clear his mind to make sense of tonight’s events. As he submerged himself in the pool, Darnell let out a long breath, feeling content after a meal and a soak in hot water.
Cesar and his group also came to Vantage, but unlike Darnell, they were busy receiving updates on their phones.
“Boss, Martin went to the Apex’s headquarters and is causing a scene.”
As Darnell picked a grape from a nearby fruit platter, Cesar approached with his phone in hand.
“Martin knows Kimberly managed to escape right under their noses. He’s disappointed with the Apex and demands an explanation for the loss of seventeen loyal men from the Seven Wolves due to this incident.”
“Since Luca is in poor health and Callum is recovering from injuries, Gisselle hopes you can come to the Apex to resolve this matter.”
Darnell seemed unsurprised by the situation. “Tell Gisselle I plan to sleep tonight and won’t be going to the Apex. She’ll have to handle it herself for now.”
“But we can have dinner tomorrow. Ask her to arrange a meeting with Luca, Martin, and me at the Apex’s headquarters.”
He understood that going now would be futile. Emotions were too high for any productive discussion, so it would be better to wait until tomorrow when everyone could talk calmly.
Cesar flashed his gold tooth and nodded in understanding. “Got it.”
Darnell’s plan was flawless-taking down Valentin, locating Rex, and having Martin send men to eliminate Rex. Darnell had arranged everything meticulously.
After learning Rex was at Kingslanding Clubhouse, Darnell instructed Martin’s men to disguise themselves as waitstaff and serve drinks and fruit to Rex’s group.
The plan was to quietly eliminate Rex and the members of the Axe without a trace. Everything was set perfectly until Rex became suspicious.
Rex not only left the clubhouse early but also immediately sensed hostility from the waitstaff, which surprised Darnell.
Despite being cautious with Martin’s actions, Rex shouldn’t have been so alert unless someone warned him.
Kimberly’s appearance led Darnell to conclude that there were still Rex’s people within the Apex, and this person held a position of great significance.
Only a few people were aware of tonight’s operation.
“Boss, Rex and his group have returned to their headquarters, Kimberly included.”
Harry rushed over with his phone, updating Darnell.
“A dozen people turned themselves in, explaining tonight’s events to the police and taking responsibility for Rex and Kimberly’s actions. Over fifty people died on both sides at tonight’s conflict, which infuriated Judith.”
“The police are verifying identities of the deceased from both sides and re-investigating Rex and his businesses associated with the Axe.”
Harry added, “Judith also ordered a thorough investigation into black market arms deals, determined not to let firearms flow into Whiteville again.”
“Good thing I wasn’t there. Otherwise, I’d probably be arrested too.”
Darnell shivered at the thought of Judith yelling to kill him.
“Boss, what should we do next?”
Cesar joined after finishing his call. “We planned to put Rex down tonight but failed. The Apex might have a traitor.”
“Rex is hiding in their headquarters now with Kimberly’s protection. We might never get another chance at him.”
“And once Rex recovers, the Axe will surely retaliate against the Apex.”
He was concerned about avenging his fallen brothers.
“No need to rush.”
Darnell reassured Cesar while drying himself with a towel. “The police are watching closely because of Pierce’s case. Rex won’t act recklessly for now.”
“We have about two weeks. During this time, our priority is finding any remaining traitors.”
Darnell narrowed his eyes slightly, enjoying the warmth of the water before adding, “This matter doesn’t require your involvement. Luca’s men will handle it themselves.”
“Your task is monitoring the movements of Rex and Steve. Inform me immediately if they make a move.”
Cesar nodded in agreement. “Understood.”
“By the way, how’s the Brigade of Shadow doing?”
“It’s been some time since its establishment. When will it make a grand entrance?”
Mentioning the Brigade of Shadow instantly energized Cesar as he eagerly responded, “Don’t worry, boss. I’m always reliable in my work.”
“The Brigade of Shadow has recruited thirty members, and they’re undergoing systematic training. Just give me more time. We won’t disappoint you!”
Darnell spoke casually, “I hope you prove worthy of my investment.”
Cesar chuckled confidently, “Absolutely worth it!”
Darnell soaked in the bath for another ten minutes, replaying the events of the night in his mind. Once dressed, he grabbed a bunch of grapes and stepped outside for some fresh air.
As he stood by the railing, his gaze caught a vivid scene below.
A lavishly dressed figure pushed open the door of a downstairs suite, and a nearly naked man stepped out, grinning as he opened his arms wide.
The naked man eagerly embraced the elegantly dressed woman, then swept her up, taking her back into the suite…
Wait-wasn’t that Grace?
Darnell’s mouth dropped slightly. This woman was here for a night of fun?
Before he could ponder further, another figure appeared beside him.
It was Elliott.
He was spinning a sharp knife in his hand at an impressive speed, the glint of the blade almost blinding.
“Hey, Elliott, this isn’t a time for fighting. What are you doing with that knife? If you accidentally cut me, your annual bonus is gone,” Darnell said, poking at Elliott without a hint of concern for his own safety. The moment his finger touched the blade, the dazzling light seemed to freeze.
“Please don’t joke. You’re the real master here. How could I possibly have the ability to hurt you?” Elliott replied, sheathing his knife with a sigh. “I’m no match for you.”
“Come on, don’t be down. You’re doing great! With your skills, there are hardly any who can match you in Whiteville,” Darnell said, casually reassuring him. “Just don’t compare yourself to me. A genius like me only comes around once in a century-a rare exception.”
Elliott looked at him, speechless.
“By the way, why aren’t you staying at the Apex?” Darnell asked, genuinely curious. “Is Vantage offering more than the Apex? That shouldn’t be possible.”
At the same time, he thought, “If you were at the Apex, keeping an eye on Kimberly, she wouldn’t have run away!”
Elliott regarded Darnell with calm eyes, revealing little of his thoughts. “Two reasons. First, I was the top expert at the Apex back then.”
His voice was devoid of emotion. “But I couldn’t beat you, couldn’t save Luca, and couldn’t help the Apex in any way. Staying at the Apex any longer would only leave me with no dignity left. I might as well leave voluntarily.”
“That makes some sense.” Darnell nodded. “And the second reason?”
Elliott answered flatly, “I don’t want to associate with hypocrites.”