Robin didn’t feel compelled to justify himself to her.
He had a strong dislike for women who acted like they were wiser than everyone else, always trying to enforce their beliefs on those around them.
These women stubbornly viewed their lives as the ideal standard, critiquing others’ decisions through their narrow lens of righteousness.
They failed to recognize that without truly experiencing another person’s life, how could they comprehend their challenges?
A person who lacked understanding and empathy for the world around them was, in essence, afflicted by a form of ignorance.
If it weren’t for Marrisa and Brenda, this flight attendant would have merely been a brief encounter in the crowd.
Although she had some appeal, it was insufficient to capture Robin’s interest.
Their meeting was purely coincidental.
He saw no point in wasting his breath defending himself to her.
“Don’t you think what you just said sounds a bit shameless?” Alison questioned Robin, unyielding in her pursuit despite his apparent indifference.
“Think whatever you want.” Robin shrugged, attempting to bypass her and continue on his way.
As he walked away, Alison’s disdain only grew.
Is he too afraid to confront me, trying to escape the awkwardness?
She let out a chilling laugh, feeling even more repulsed by him.
What had started as the potential for a relationship had turned into nothing but disappointment.
“If you were a real man, you’d demonstrate your worth through your own skills!
“Not by begging an older woman for a few paltry dollars.
“No matter how powerful, wealthy, or talented she is, what you’re doing is pathetic!
“You had the guts to stand up to four thugs from Demberoa on the plane.
“Why can’t you show the same bravery when faced with my questions?
“With your skills, you could achieve what you want on your own.
“Why stoop to such disgraceful behavior?”
Unable to tolerate Robin’s dismissive nature any longer, Alison chased after him, allowing her frustration to spill over.
Robin turned to face the furious Alison, shaking his head in resignation.
“Are you done?
“I’ve already said that if that’s how you perceive me, then that’s your reality.
“I have no ties to you, so why should I need to explain anything?
“Move aside!”
Alison was caught off guard by Robin’s haughty and icy attitude.
What a shameless man!
He’s relying on others, yet he still has the audacity to act superior.
Carrying a suitcase, Robin entered a bank in Chinatown.
He deposited 300,000 into Marrisa’s account.
After leaving the bank, he headed to the Dreamscape Bar in the southern part of Chinatown.
Having walked a fine line for years, Robin’s heart had grown cold and calloused.
Yet, the mere thought of the Dreamscape Bar brought a warmth that softened his hardened demeanor.
As he strolled through Chinatown, illuminated by the golden rays of the setting sun, he was flooded with memories of Anna’s innocent smile from seven years prior. That year was full of youthful energy.
Robin hadn’t yet been ensnared by the allure of nightlife or worldly pleasures.
A sweet, innocent love had nearly defined his youth.
Those memories were etched deep in his heart, refreshing like a mountain spring-pure and untainted.
No matter how far he wandered, he could never forget.
Dreamscape Bar wasn’t among the upscale entertainment spots in Chinatown.
This mid-range establishment didn’t feature pricey bottles of Lafite or extravagant decor.
Consequently, the wages for the employees were far from generous.
Yet, it was in this unassuming bar that he encountered the girl who would leave a lasting impression on him.
She wore a flowing floral dress, with her fresh short hair framing her face perfectly.
From afar, one could almost detect the light, refreshing scent of her youthful energy.
At that time, Robin was just 14 years old.
He had recently settled into Marrisa’s home and took a job at the bar to contribute to the household expenses.
It was here that he met Anna, a girl of 13.
Robin believed with all his heart that Anna was the most beautiful girl in the universe. That sweet memory ignited a spark within him, one that he found hard to extinguish.
No matter where life took him or the horrors he witnessed, Anna’s vibrant, radiant smile remained etched in his heart, evoking the sweetest, most innocent moments of life.
Thanks to these memories, after every violent encounter, his cold heart could still hold on to a flicker of warmth.
As the years rolled on, the image of
that fresh floral dress faded into the
level.
background, yet the lingering feelings of his youth still carried the
essence of that time. Corried the
Seven years have passed, Anna!
Where are you now?
Are you alright?
If not for this trip to Terenova and visiting Marrisa’s soup restaurant, Robin might never have mustered the courage to revisit those dusty memories from that year. Wandering through Chinatown, Robin moved forward, spotting the modest Dreamscape Bar in the distance.
In that moment, his heart softened unexpectedly.
After all the bloodshed he had witnessed, he had believed his heart had turned to stone.
Yet, the carefree days of his youth allowed him to feel warmth from that era.
The golden rays of the sunset cast a dim, somber glow over the old streets of Chinatown.
Robin gazed at the flickering neon sign above the bar, its worn letters still glimmering with echoes from seven years ago.
A familiar sensation surged within him.
It had been ages since he had felt his heart stirred in such a manner.
Suddenly, loud laughter shattered the last remnants of tranquility in the evening air.
Irritated, Robin followed the noise to the entrance of the bar.
A group of ruffians surrounded a plain-looking middle-aged man, pushing him around.
“Conrad, didn’t you claim you were one of the toughest mercenaries in Fricana back in the day?
“Rumor has it you could take out an entire team all by yourself.
“So how did you end up here, serving drinks in this dump? Hahaha…
“It’s only been three years, and look at you-now you’re just a pathetic loser, haha…”
As the last rays of the sunset disappeared, Robin frowned slightly.
The glaring neon lights flickered frantically, illuminating the loud group of thugs outside Dreamscape Bar.
Among them was a bald man
covered in tattoos, along with a few
lackeys, shoving the middle-aged man around. Robin squinted, feeling
a sense of familiarity with the man.
en FindNovel
He quickly made his way toward the bar.
As he drew closer, the chaotic lights revealed the man, his head bowed in silence.
His thinning hair and worn face showed the signs of a life that was once vibrant, but his dull, lifeless eyes betrayed no emotion.
Robin halted his tracks.
Conrad Duran!
What is he doing here?
The once-mighty Warrior King has sunk to such depths?!
At 17, Robin had just arrived in Fricana.
Old Fred had given him a mission to rescue someone.
Even though he had honed exceptional combat skills under Old Fred’s guidance, this was his first taste of genuine brutality, leaving him shaken.
During that mission, he had encountered a Demberoa man named Conrad, a Warrior King with nearly eight years of mercenary experience! What happened to Conrad?
With his capabilities, how could he allow himself to be humiliated by this band of losers?
Robin could clearly recall that harrowing rescue mission.
The team comprised seven individuals, each from different nations and various international mercenary organizations.
After three exhausting days of struggle, only Conrad and Robin were left standing.
They were up against thirty highly trained special forces mercenaries.
Each one had combat skills that could dismantle a heavily armed battalion.
The odds seemed insurmountable.
Conrad had confided in him that this would be his final mission.
He intended to go home afterward, having fought to ensure a better life for his mother and sister.
His resolve to survive and complete the mission was unwavering.
In the end, he and Conrad managed to fend off the enemy’s security forces, emerging victorious.
During that battle, Conrad single-handedly took down over twenty mercenaries!
Robin was profoundly awed by his lethal abilities.
Afterward, Conrad left Fricana and returned to Demberoa.
Robin never saw him again.
For a long time, he almost forgot about the comrade who had fought alongside him in life-and-death situations.
He never imagined he would encounter him again.
Now, outside the Dreamscape Bar, a tattooed man and a few thugs were arrogantly tormenting Conrad.
The once-mighty Warrior King now resembled a soulless statue, numbed and silent, his head bowed in defeat.
His worn bartender uniform bore the dirt and footprints of those around him.
Still, Conrad continued to respectfully recite the standard phrases of his job.
“Gentlemen, please enter the bar. I kindly ask that you avoid creating a disturbance at the entrance, as it may disrupt other patrons. Thank you for your understanding.”
The tattooed man erupted in laughter. “Conrad, are you begging me?
“Very well! Just grovel and crawl between my legs, and I won’t bother you today.
“Come on, everyone! Check this out! The Dreamscape Bar has a special performance tonight, better than any strip club! Hahaha…”
The tattooed man called out to the passersby with blatant arrogance.
“Look at this guy! Three years ago, he returned from overseas, boasting about his exploits as a mercenary in Fricana. The very next day, he helped the police take me down on this street! “He accused me of being a drug dealer!
“Because of that, he received an award from the Terenova police department.
“He was honored as a model citizen of Terenova!
“They even hired him as an unofficial narcotics officer.
“By all rights, he should be a hero here! But look at him now! Hahaha…
“How did he end up like this, working as a doorman in this dump?
“Did you think you were a big deal for helping the cops catch me?
“I got out after a few days and still look good!
“And you?
“Your poor mother is stuck in bed, unable to pay for treatment! Hahaha…
“Your sister, that pretty chick… Let’s not even go there! Hahaha…”
The tattooed man struck Conrad’s lowered head, laughing uproariously with his friends. Conrad remained hunched over, a chill emanating from his lifeless eyes. His aged, humbled face twitched as he fought to maintain his composure.
His trembling fists clenched a few times before he reluctantly relaxed them. “Grovel and crawl!” the bald man bellowed, legs spread wide in arrogance.
“Otherwise, I’ll make sure you can’t even keep this job!
“With that meager paycheck, your poor mother will likely starve before she succumbs to her illness! Hahaha…”
Conrad’s clenched fists finally fell limp once more.
Outside, Robin noticed the coldness in Conrad’s eyes fading under the chaotic flickering of lights.
“Are you going to crawl or not?
“I don’t have time to wait!”
The tattooed man raised his hand and brought it crashing down onto Conrad’s bowed head.
“Matthew, that’s too much!” Several waitstaff from the Dreamscape Bar stepped forward to defend Conrad. “Conrad only assisted the police to arrest you because he happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. “If you hadn’t coerced those girls into dealing drugs and ended up in trouble, he wouldn’t have had to step in! “Among those girls is Conrad’s sister! You’re nothing but a pack of savages!” Bang! Bang! Bang!
Before the waitstaff could continue, Matthew Beckett kicked one of them, sending him sprawling to the ground. “You pathetic loser! Who do you think you are, talking back to me?”
Matthew’s group surged forward, wielding clubs and launching a brutal attack on the young staff.
Outnumbered and overwhelmed, the waitstaff stood little chance against the thugs armed with clubs.
It wasn’t long before several of them lay on the ground.
“Finish them off! You think you can
talk back to me? You’re asking for shouted, pointing
trouble!
at the fallen staff, his flabby face shaking with rage.
Hesitating, Conrad stepped forward, positioning himself defiantly in front of the thugs.
He raised his arm to block a swing from one of their clubs.
Matthew and his gang paused for a moment, surprise flashing across their faces as they halted their assault. “Matthew, let’s not take our frustrations out on them. They’re just kids,” Conrad said, his voice unwavering.
“Conrad, can’t
been a year, and I still over what you did!”
Matthew sneered, movel
slapping Conrad’s face. belongs to FindNovel
“Unless you crawl between my legs today, this isn’t over!
“Don’t even think about staying in Chinatown after this. Take your useless mother and get lost!”
Conrad’s bloodshot eyes lifted, his worn face contorted in pain.
His fists trembled with barely contained rage.
For a full thirty seconds, the fire of anger in Conrad’s gaze dimmed.
The harsh realities of life and the cruelty of humanity had crushed the intensity of his once fierce spirit.
All the faith and hope he had were gone.
To save his mother, to survive, he had no choice but to endure this humiliation.
If he could work for just six more months, he would have enough for her surgery!
He didn’t want to cause any more trouble.
All he wanted was to keep his head down and earn that small paycheck to provide the treatment his mother needed.
Was it too much to ask for such a simple dream?
Conrad battled with his thoughts.
He understood that if he struck Matthew, he would lose his opportunity to make money in Chinatown.
His mother, lying in a hospital bed, would lose her chance for help.
At that moment, his legs trembled, and humiliation welled in his eyes.
For his mother, for survival, he closed his eyes and slowly bent his knees!
Suddenly, a pair of strong hands lifted him up.
“Conrad, you were once the Warrior King of Fricana! How can you grovel to scum like this?” Conrad opened his eyes in shock, staring at Robin in disbelief. “Robin, how did you get here?” “Who the hell are you to interfere in my business?” Matthew shouted, angrily pointing at Robin. Robin smirked, his lips twitching slightly. “I’m your worst nightmare!”
He kicked toward Matthew’s thigh.
With a sickening crunch, Matthew’s anguished scream rang out in front of the Dreamscape Bar.
Matthew lay sprawled on the ground, his leg shattered, pain etched across his features.
“Ah! Kill him! What are you waiting for? Get on with it!”
His thugs snapped back to reality and raced to their car, grabbing knives as they surrounded Robin.
Positioned protectively in front of Conrad, Robin offered a reassuring pat on his shoulder, silent yet supportive. He pulled out a wet wipe. Conrad trembled, gripping Robin’s wrist in fear. “Robin! No…”
He recognized the chilling signal; Robin always did this before taking a life.
During their previous mission, Conrad had observed Robin cleaning his hands with a wet wipe before a slaughter.
Now, it was evident that Robin was prepared to unleash his wrath.
“Robin, I don’t want to handle it this way…
“I have my mother in Terenova; all I want is to live a quiet, normal life here…”
“1
After a brief moment of hesitation, Robin discarded the wet wipe over his shoulder.
With a quick, powerful kick, he sent several thugs crashing to the ground outside the Dreamscape Bar.
Matthew and his crew recoiled, eyes wide with fear as they witnessed Robin approaching with unyielding confidence. The crowd outside the bar erupted in cheers, especially the young women, their eyes shining with admiration. “Who is this guy? He’s amazing!” they whispered to one another, bewildered that they hadn’t encountered him before. Robin stepped directly in front of Matthew, gesturing behind him. “Grovel and beg Conrad for mercy. If you do, I’ll let you go.” Matthew clenched his teeth, his voice a low growl. “Who the hell do you think you are? Do you know who I” Without a word, Robin stepped down harshly on the injured part of Matthew’s leg, twisting his foot without mercy. “Get off me… I’ll do it I’ll go beg for mercy. Just let me go…
”
Matthew cried out in agony, tears streaming down his face. “I’ll bow and plead with him, just stop!” Only then did Robin lift his foot.
Panicking, Matthew fumbled for his phone. “I won’t let you get away with this ”
Before he could finish, Robin yanked his hair and slammed his face into the ground. Thud!
The sickening sound reverberated as Matthew let out a blood-curdling scream.
This was far from finished.
If Conrad hadn’t begged Robin to spare them, those thugs would have faced their demise long ago.
Robin couldn’t be bothered to waste his breath on such filth.
To him, every moment these animals drew breath was a drain on resources.
Ignoring Matthew’s plight, he continued to smash his head into the unforgiving ground.
Matthew’s face became a mess, and he finally broke.
“Okay, okay! I’ll never oppose your wishes again. I’ll go beg for Conrad’s forgiveness right now!”
Only then did Robin release his hold, pulling out a tissue to clean his hands before tossing it onto Matthew’s bloodied face.
“Do it right now. I don’t have time to waste!”
Matthew nodded vigorously. “Yes, yes! I’ll do it!”
His henchmen helped him to his feet and dragged him over to Conrad, where he fell to his knees, begging.
Conrad let out a weary sigh. “Just go.”
“Get lost!” Robin waved his hand dismissively.
With Robin’s command, Matthew’s crew hurriedly shoved him into a car and sped away.
A few staff members from the bar approached Robin, gratitude shining in their eyes. “Thank you, sir!”
Robin returned a faint smile, patting Conrad on the shoulder. “Let’s head inside, Conrad. It’s been a while; I’m sure you have a lot to share.” Conrad hesitated. “Robin, it’s my shift…”
“Doesn’t matter.” Robin shrugged, gesturing to the staff. “They’ll help you.”
“Sure thing. Conrad, your buddy’s here! Go on in for a drink and catch up!” the staff encouraged enthusiastically.
Conrad forced a pained smile and nodded. “Let’s go, Robin. I never thought I’d run into you in Terenova.”
Robin examined him for a moment, concern flickering in his eyes. “When you retired that year, you must have returned with a decent amount of cash. What’s happened since then?” en FindNovel
Conrad’s brow furrowed, weariness clear in his gaze.
“My sister fell into drugs… I’ve drained my savings and borrowed heavily from loan sharks. Then my sister … she died!
“If it weren’t for my mother lying in bed, paralyzed and waiting for treatment, I-I…
“Let’s go inside and talk,” Robin interjected softly, giving Conrad’s shoulder a comforting pat. He didn’t want to hear any more.
He knew that if Conrad were
with hi
unencumbered by responsibilities talents, he would have wiped out every drug dealer in Terenova’s Chinatown.
There was no way he would allow lowlifes like Matthew to push him around.
Once they stepped into the bar, Robin surveyed the staff; none of the familiar faces from seven years ago were present.
Conrad ordered a few drinks and led Robin to a quieter booth situated on the east side of the bar.
“Are you still working as a mercenary?” Conrad asked.
Taking the drink Conrad offered him, Robin shook his head. “Not anymore. I don’t have anything on my plate at the moment. Let’s focus on you.” Conrad sighed deeply. “After I came back from Fricana that year, I wanted to settle into a normal life with my mother and sister.
“I never expected everything to take such a turn.
“At first, I opened a small bar. Business was decent, and life was comfortable.
“My mom and sister were doing well after my return.
“But then my sister, Charis, got caught up in addiction … and eventually, she passed away.
“By chance, I went to a bar with a friend and saw Matthew selling drugs to customers.
“No, he was coercing them into buying drugs.
“My sister was among those he pressured into using.
“So, I called the police to help catch him.
“According to Demberoa’s laws, lowlifes like Matthew shouldn’t be able to escape punishment.
“But less than a day later, he was released from custody.
“The police even claimed that Matthew was only serving regular drinks and food, not drugs.
“Then, three days later, my sister died suddenly.
“When I arrived at the scene, I found her charred remains.
“The police concluded that she had hallucinated due to drug use and accidentally ignited the gas, leading to her death!
“I’ve never accepted that explanation. I went to the precinct multiple times, but they had no answers.
“Eventually, I took it upon myself to investigate, asking a few girls who had been with my sister. “Some said they hadn’t seen her that day, while others had disappeared.
“I’ve always believed that behind scum like Matthew lies a larger drug network”
“Get away from us!” A commotion erupted from the south side of the bar, interrupting Conrad’s tale.
A stout man from Draconia, with a dark complexion and a shiny bald head, stood out in the dim bar.
He was accompanied by a man with a cane-Matthew, the one Robin had injured.
“Quit pretending! If you’re here, you’re looking for a good time with men, so stop acting innocent! Take those two women upstairs!”
“Get lost! If you keep bothering us, I’ll
call the cops! Alison, we’re leaving.” A woman’s voice broke through the din, Catching Robin’s attention.
Brenda?
Following the noise, Robin spotted Alison and Brenda being shoved and surrounded by the group.
Conrad stood frozen, his hand suspended in mid-air as he clutched his drink, watching the scene unfold before him.
Robin could sense the inner conflict swirling within the former Warrior King of Fricana. After a moment’s hesitation, Conrad finally rose to his feet. Robin followed suit, placing a comforting hand on Conrad’s shoulder. “I’ll take care of this.”
“Robin, you…” Conrad shook his head, worry clear on his face.
“Just keep a low profile while you’re in Terenova’s Chinatown,” Robin advised. “What seems calm on the surface often conceals serious issues.”
“I don’t want you getting mixed up in this and getting hurt because of me.”
“Robin, you really should leave. I can deal with my own problems. I’ve already-”
Robin gently pushed Conrad’s hand away. “I need to be involved in this.”
Conrad was about to argue further when he saw the fierce determination in Robin’s eyes. “One of those girls is my sister, Brenda.”
Conrad froze, confusion flooding his expression.
“I lived in Terenova seven years ago.” Robin grabbed a napkin from the table, wiping his hands, then shrugged. “I even worked at this Dreamscape Bar.” “But…” Conrad’s brow knitted in concern. “Robin, let me handle this.
“These aren’t just random thugs; they have ties to the Grimwolf Crew, the local gang in Chinatown,” he warned.
“Did you see that short, stocky guy?
“His name’s Drew Riggs, one of the men working for Adrian Howler, the leader of the Grimwolf Crew. If you cross him, you’ll draw all sorts of trouble.”
“No worries. It’s just Grimwolf Crew,” Robin replied confidently as he strode toward Brenda and the others.
Conrad clenched his jaw, hoping Robin would reconsider. “The Grimwolf Crew is backed by Chinatown’s largest syndicate, the Harlows, which means they do the Harlows’ bidding.” “The Harlows?” Robin echoed, a hint of recognition in his voice.
Rumors suggested that Anna might be the Harlows’ heiress.
At that moment, Drew and his thugs continued to harass Brenda. There was no time to waste, so Robin quickened his steps.
“I don’t care about the Grimwolf Crew or the Harlows. Brenda is my sister, and I won’t let Drew intimidate her. I have to step in.
“If the Grimwolf Crew doesn’t back off, then fine; I’ll take them down. They’re just a small-time crew anyway.”
Conrad watched Robin’s retreating figure with a flicker of pride in his chest, as if he were reliving the fierce battles of Fricana. “You two little tramps think you can refuse me? I’ll make you pay!” Drew shouted, slapping Alison across the face.
He glared at her and Brenda, seething with anger. “How dare you ruin my fun! Take them away!”
A couple of thugs from the Grimwolf Crew immediately seized them, dragging them toward the stairs.
Alison fought back and yelled, “You can’t do this in broad daylight! Where’s hotel security? Where are you hiding?
“I’ll have you know I’m a flight attendant for Draconia Southern Airlines … ”
Drew paused for a moment, then erupted in laughter.
“Draconia Southern Airlines? Hahaha… You think that means anything here? I thought you were with Phoenix Vanguard, hahaha…
“Just behave, and you won’t have any problems. Otherwise”
“Wait!” A middle-aged man rushed over with the bar’s security staff.
Robin squinted through the dim lighting of the bar. The man looked familiar.
It was Darren Voss, a staff member from seven years ago, though he appeared a bit heavier now.
He had since become the floor manager of Dreamscape Bar.
Darren approached Drew and his crew. “Mr. Riggs, please hold on.
“I just want to say, we’re all here to enjoy ourselves. Let’s not ruin the atmosphere.
“Dreamscape Bar respects every customer’s wishes and never forces anyone into anything.
“Mr. Riggs, if these two girls don’t want to participate, please let them go.”
With a sharp crack, the tension in the air thickened.
Drew swung his hefty arm, delivering a sharp slap to Darren’s face.
“You’re just a pathetic bar manager trying to boss me around?
“Don’t act like you don’t know who I am! I’m affiliated with the Grimwolf Crew!
“If you cross me, I swear I’ll wreck this place! Get out of my sight!”
Darren wiped the blood trickling
from the corner of his mouth, his et
eyes pleading for assistance as he glanced toward Alison and Brenda.
After a brief moment of uncertainty, he spoke up, “Mr. Riggs, please let them go…
”
“Are you kidding? Do I seem like I want to negotiate? Kick him!” Drew shouted, then brutally kicked Darren in the side.
Several henchmen from the Grimwolf Crew charged forward, unleashing a barrage of punches and kicks.
“You think you can challenge the Grimwolf Crew in Chinatown? You’re just asking for trouble!”
Drew sneered as he dragged Brenda and Alison toward the stairs.
“Let go of me! If you don’t, I’ll call the cops!”
Alison shouted, her heart racing as she watched the bar manager and security staff fall, desperately hoping someone would step in.
Drew mockingly patted Alison’s face.
“Sweetheart, save your breath. You’ll have plenty of time to scream later. No one in Chinatown is coming to save you, hahaha… ”
Suddenly, with a loud crash, Drew was sent flying by a powerful kick, slamming against the stair railing.
“Who the hell just hit me?!”
Emerging from the crowd, Robin
stepped forward, pressing his foot me.
firmly on Drew’s chest. “It was
Got a problem with that? Do you
want me to finish you off?”
Alison and Brenda stood frozen, shock washing over them as they took in Robin’s imposing figure.
“Robin, h-how did you get here?” Brenda exclaimed, her voice filled with disbelief.
Alison gasped, a wave of relief flooding through her as she caught her breath, her eyes sparkling with a mix of emotions.
Gradually, the surprise in her gaze morphed into disdain.
She tugged on Brenda’s arm. “Brenda, don’t go over there.
“There’s something strange about this. I think they’re putting on a show for us.”
“A show?” Brenda asked, puzzled.
Alison let out a cold laugh. “I’ve read plenty of stories where guys stage dramatic rescues to impress the girl they like.” “That can’t be true!” Brenda shook her head.
“Robin’s been gone for seven years; he just returned. How could he possibly know anyone in Chinatown?”
“Ha! With enough money, anything is possible,” Alison shot back
“Using that rich old lady’s money for a night out? Even if he saved me, I wouldn’t respect him!”
Brenda frowned. “Alison, have you thought about what might have happened if Robin hadn’t stepped in?
“Even if Robin is using a wealthy woman’s money, that’s his concern. He hasn’t harmed us.
“I’ve thought about it. Maybe it hasn’t been easy for him these past years…
“Regardless of the reason, the fact that he intervened shows he’s still the guy who could protect me back then…”
Alison glared at Robin, shaking her head. “Brenda, just stop. I can’t stand guys like him!
“He could have made a living through his own talents, yet he chooses to engage in these shady antics.
“Even if he has some sense of justice, he’s just a pathetic pretty boy.”
Darren struggled to rise from the floor.
In the dim light of the bar, he recognized Robin. “Is that you … Robin?”
Robin flashed a cool smile, giving Darren a reassuring pat on the shoulder. “It’s me. It’s been a while.
“It’s been seven years. You’ve become the bar manager-congrats.”
Darren managed a bitter smile, his gaze drifting to Drew, still pinned under Robin’s foot.
Caught in this tense situation, he hesitated, unsure how to continue talking to Robin.
“Robin, please let him go. I don’t want you getting pulled into this mess right after you’ve come back.” Drew had finally started to regain his composure, desperately attempting to push himself off the floor. Yet, escaping from beneath Robin’s foot proved to be a monumental challenge.
“Who the hell do you think you are? Let me up!
“I’m with Adrian, the head of the Grimwolf Crew!
“You’ve crossed me, and you won’t leave Dreamscape Bar alive!”
Robin ignored him, applying just a bit more pressure.
A blood-curdling scream pierced the air in the otherwise quiet bar.
Drew’s ribs cracked under the intense force.
Robin turned back to Darren. “Before coming here, I assumed Dreamscape Bar had vanished.
“I never expected to find it still standing in Chinatown, or to see you again.”
Drew writhed in pain, filled with fury.
Robin’s casual demeanor infuriated him further, as if he was unconcerned about Drew or the Grimwolf Crew!
After all those years following Adrian, he had never endured such disgrace.
He found this a hard pill to swallow!
The Grimwolf Crew thugs quickly regained their senses and charged toward Robin, knives brandished.
“Robin, you need to get out! I’ll handle this … ” Darren urged, his voice trembling with urgency.
Robin shrugged, looking unconcerned. “It’s fine. Just a few clueless fools. A good beating will quiet them down.”
As the Grimwolf thugs closed in, Robin kept chatting with Darren, effortlessly knocking out each attacker with a swift punch.
In mere moments, the bar floor was strewn with members of the Grimwolf Crew.
Drew continued to writhe in agony beneath Robin’s foot.
Watching Robin’s impressive skills, the once-cocky thugs felt their confidence rapidly evaporate.
Matthew and the others, who had been lurking in the back, were well aware of Robin’s reputation.
Now, witnessing him take down Drew, they shouted, “D-Drew, call Mr. Howler!”
Robin released Drew and advanced toward Matthew. “Looks like your memory is a bit short!”
“Y-you’d better stay back!” Matthew stuttered, retreating into the crowd.
“I-I’m warning you, if Mr. Howler finds out you hurt his man, you’ll be a dead man!”
Darren pulled at Robin’s arm, speaking softly. “Robin, let’s stop this here. Your sister and the others are okay. Just let it go.”
“Let it go?” Drew clutched his chest in agony, gritting his teeth.
“You’ve done this to me, and I swear I’ll make sure you lot are burried here!
“Dreamscape Bar is doomed! Prepare to go out of business!”
He gestured at a fallen thug on the ground. “Call Mr. Howler!”
Darren insisted, “Robin, you need to take these girls and leave. I’ll manage things from here.”
Robin remained silent, stepping deliberately toward Matthew.
Conrad stepped in front of Robin. “Robin, just go. I’ll handle this.”
Robin gave him a reassuring pat on the shoulder. “It’s okay, Conrad!”
Then, he reached back into the crowd and yanked Matthew forward, delivering a crushing blow to his face.
Matthew screamed, blood spraying across his features as he collapsed to the ground.
The bar fell into a chilling silence as Drew hung up the phone.
Everyone understood that once Adrian arrived, chaos would inevitably ensue.
Grimwolf Crew had become a cancer in Terenova’s Chinatown.
With the support of the Harlows, they had cultivated a legion of a thousand thugs over the years.
Behind the scenes, they colluded with law enforcement, engaging in a variety of illicit activities such as
drug trafficking, illegal gambling et
kidnapping, extortion, and even murder and arson. Their operations were marked by brutality and intimidation.
Anyone foolish enough to cross their path faced dire consequences.
The people around Robin cast sympathetic glances in his direction.
Brenda, visibly shaken, tugged at Robin’s arm, urging, “Robin, we need to get out of here. You can’t take on Adrian.”
Robin offered a gentle smile in response. “It’s alright, Brenda. If we don’t settle this matter once and for all, you and Marrisa will never feel safe.”
Alison, observing Robin’s calmness,
snapped, “Do you honestly think that
616
old woman will support you no matter what you do, and that you can just run rampant here?
“Are you even aware that your reckless actions could spell disaster for Brenda and Dreamscape Bar?
“You’re saying you’ll settle this matter completely? That’s a bold claim!
“Is that woman your source of confidence?”
“Alison!” Brenda interjected, “How can you say that about Robin?”
Robin raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the intensity of Alison’s outrage.
He couldn’t grasp why she was so upset about the issue concerning Stephanie. Choosing to ignore her, he returned to reminiscing with Darren about the past. Alison, furious at being dismissed, shouted, “Robin, what are you trying to imply?
“Do you think acting like this will earn you my respect?
“Brenda, we should leave!”
Brenda shook her head. “No, I want to stay here with Robin …”
“Leave? You think you can simply walk away after hitting one of Grimwolf Crew’s men? You must be dreaming!”
At that moment, a man in his thirties, surrounded by a group of imposing thugs, strode into the bar.
This was Adrian, the notorious leader of the Grimwolf Crew.
Darren hesitated but stepped forward, summoning his courage. “Mr. Howler, we at Dreamscape Bar mishandled this situation; please allow me to explain.” Adrian responded by kicking Darren, sending him crashing to the floor.
“What are you? Who do you think you are to explain anything?
“All I know is that my men from Grimwolf Crew were assaulted in Dreamscape Bar, and they won’t leave here alive!”
Conrad stepped in front of Adrian,
his voice tcy. “Adrian, Robin was my comrade back in Fricana. Let’s just say he could single-handedly take down a special forces unit without breaking a sweat.” FindNovel
A flicker of surprise crossed Adrian’s face as he assessed Robin.
Conrad continued, “Drew forcibly dragged these two girls upstairs. One of them is Robin’s sister…
“Adrian, if we pursue this matter, the consequences could be unpredictable.
“In that case, I won’t stand idly by!”
Adrian’s heart sank.
He locked eyes with Conrad, weighing his options.
Having spent eight years as a mercenary in Fricana, Conrad was as formidable as an entire enhanced battalion.
If Robin and Conrad decided to join forces, they could easily bring Chinatown to its knees.
Conrad wasn’t exaggerating.
Adrian glanced again at Robin’s cold, steadfast figure, feeling a surge of fear building within him.
Despite the Harlows being their support, challenging a killer of Robin’s caliber was no small task for the Grimwolf Crew.
Even if the Harlows threw all their resources into the mix, Adrian understood he could soon find himself as nothing more than a ghost wandering the streets.
A wise person knows to avoid unnecessary trouble.
It would be best to retreat for now and figure out how to deal with Robin later.
After a moment of serious reflection, Adrian suddenly erupted with laughter.
“Ah, I get it now!
“Robin, you’re Conrad’s comrade! Hahaha… so we’re all friends here!
“It’s just a misunderstanding! A simple misunderstanding! Hahaha…
Adrian laughed to cover his own discomfort.
“Robin, Drew was wrong for laying a finger on your sister.
“This can’t be overlooked; I owe you an explanation!”
In a fit of rage, he seized a knife from one of his men and drove it into Drew’s leg.
Drew screamed in agony as the blade tore through flesh and bone.
Everyone in the bar was left speechless!
Instead of confronting Robin, Adrian chose to punish his own man, Drew?
“Drew, you pathetic fool! Are you blind? How dare you touch Robin’s sister! Do you think you’re invincible?”
Adrian clapped his hands and kicked the still-screaming Drew, barking out commands.
“Get over there and apologize to Mr. Ramsey and his sister! If you fail to appease Mr. Ramsey, I’ll personally take you down!”
Drew was momentarily bewildered, trying to process Adrian’s strange behavior.
However, he had no time to ponder.
Suppressing his pain, he groveled and began to plead for forgiveness.
He repeatedly said he was sorry while groveling in front of Robin, Brenda, and Alison.
“Mr. Robin, ladies, I was wrong! I’m a beast! Please have mercy on me…”
Brenda and Alison watched in disbelief, shocked by the surreal scene unfolding before them.
Adrian and Drew, known as notorious villains of Grimwolf Crew, had never shown such humility to anyone.
Robin had defeated them, yet Adrian forced Drew to beg for forgiveness?
Alison lifted her gaze to Robin, whose expression remained unchanging, her surprise turning to contempt.
In Terenova, only the Rogarios could make Grimwolf Crew bow down.
“Robin, is this enough?” Adrian discarded the bloody knife.
Robin gave a faint smile. “Let’s agree to a temporary truce.”
Upon hearing Robin’s words, Adrian erupted with laughter.
“Fantastic! Mr. Ramsey, you’re quite the sport!
“I’ll take care of all your expenses here at Dreamscape Bar today. I have other matters to deal with, so I’ll be leaving-”
“Wait! Our business isn’t finished!” Robin’s smile vanished.
Adrian slowly turned back, forcing a grin. “What do you mean, Robin?”
Feeling frustrated, Alison interjected, “Robin, are you done yet?
“They’re about to leave, so why complicate matters? Are you looking for trouble?”
Ignoring Alison’s comments, Robin pulled out a chair and sat down.
“Adrian, was Charis, Conrad’s sister, coerced into drug use that led to her demise because of your Grimwolf Crew?” At this, Adrian’s smile faded.
“Robin, are you suggesting you want to make me your enemy today?” Adrian’s lips curled into a sinister grin.
Seeing his expression, Alison seethed, “Robin, do you really need to escalate this just to flaunt your so-called heroism? “I’m telling you, I’m not impressed!”
“Get lost!” Robin’s expression darkened. “What I choose to do doesn’t require your endless commentary!” Alison stomped her foot in irritation. “Hey! Don’t assume that just because a woman is backing you-” Robin shot her an annoyed look and stepped closer to Adrian.
“Adrian, I’m asking you something. I expect an answer!”
Adrian’s lips curled into a slight smirk. “Do you really think the Grimwolf Crew is intimidated by you?”
Robin moved around Alison and coldly repeated, “I’m asking you again: Did you have anything to do with Conrad’s sister’s death?”
“Robin, I’ve already shown you
enough respect. Don’t test my
patience! With that declaration, a
swarm of Grimwolf Crew enforcers revealed their knives, encircling Robin.
en FindNovel
Conrad finally grasped why Robin had confronted Drew so harshly from the beginning.
He intended to provoke Adrian, the leader of Grimwolf Crew, into confessing the truth about Charis’s drug addiction and her tragic demise!
“Robin, let me handle this matter regarding Charis. You should leave now,” Conrad urged, his tone urgent.
Robin gave Conrad a reassuring pat on the shoulder, his gaze icy as he directed it toward Adrian. “Stop playing games; answer my question!” Adrian paused, scanning the enforcers surrounding him, a chilling light gleaming in his eyes.
“Ha! Here’s the truth: Charis brought this upon herself by calling the cops!”
He pointed a mocking finger at Conrad.
“And this so-called hero from the Fricana battlefield teamed up with those clueless officers and ruined our Grimwolf Crew’s operation!
“I run a drug business-why do you care?
“You’ve disrupted the Grimwolf Crew’s cash flow. Who do you think I’m going to target if not you and Charis?
“If you want to cut off my lifeline, we’ll settle this the traditional way!”
At that moment, a murderous glint sparked in Conrad’s eyes.
He had confirmed that Adrian’s men were responsible for Charis’s death.
“Adrian, you scum!”
“Hahaha!” Adrian’s laughter rang out through the bar.
“Conrad, no matter how skilled you are, you’re still just one man!
“The Grimwolf Crew has thousands at our command, and we have the police on our side. How do you think you can stand against me?
“If I wanted you dead, I could do it without a second thought! Hahaha…”
Adrian pointed at Robin, scoffing, “Even if you two joined forces, you’re still just flesh and blood!
“I can’t believe you think you can challenge us!”
As he spoke, four men wielding assault rifles stepped forward behind him.
bet
Darren, notieing the escalating tension, anxiously tugged at Robin and Conrad. “You guys should really back off; they’re a pack of ruthless monsters.”
Robin smiled dismissively, shaking off Darren’s grip. “It’s fine; I specialize in dealing with monsters!”
With the four armed men supporting him, Adrian’s confidence surged.
He sneered at Conrad. “Let me tell
sister because she seemed so
you, I was only interested net
sweet and innocent. That’s why I got her involved in this mess.
“She got addicted to drugs thanks to my people, who set her up for that first injection. “When your sister’s cravings kicked in, she came begging for my help.
“Ha! That little sister of yours practically threw herself at me, haha…
“She had such fair skin, so soft. It’s like I could snap her in half if I just used a little force …
Adrian’s deranged laughter echoed through the bar as he recounted his grotesque tale.
Everyone present was appalled by his vile display!
Conrad’s fists tightened, cracking audibly. “Adrian, you monster!”
Adrian laughed even more maniacally.
“Conrad, did you know that after I grew tired of your sister, my men took turns with her? Drew was even involved!
“We did it until she could scream no more, hahaha…
“Your sister didn’t take her own life!
“She was assaulted by me and my men, which led to her death. How does that feel? Hahaha… ”
Adrian felt a surge of confidence as he goaded Robin and Conrad, reassured by the presence of four armed Grimwolf Crew members at his side.
To make matters worse, the police and the Harlows were already on their way.
Even though Conrad and Robin were formidable, they wouldn’t dare cause a scene in Terenova’s Chinatown.
Any escalation might alert the authorities in Demberoa, and if the military got involved, their confrontation would escalate beyond mere street altercations.
This awareness only fueled Adrian’s arrogance as he taunted Conrad, using the death of his sister as ammunition to provoke him further, seeking to manipulate the police’s influence to eliminate Conrad once and for all.
As he noticed the fury igniting in Conrad, Adrian pressed on with his jabs. “Conrad, even now that you know what really happened to your sister, there’s nothing you can do to me or the Grimwolf Crew. The police have determined that Charis died from an overdose, that she hallucinated and ended her own life.
“Ha! What’s your plan now?” he jeered. “Go ahead, kill me! If you do, your barely living mother will join you in hell, too! Haha…”
His mocking laughter echoed through the bar.
Conrad trembled, his eyes blazing with rage.
In the heat of the moment, he could have easily smashed Adrian to pieces in revenge for his sister.
Even with the Grimwolf members surrounding him, he wouldn’t have flinched.
But that would mean abandoning his mother.
In his moment of hesitation, a blur shot past him.
Robin lunged forward like a missile, crashing into Adrian and sending him sprawling to the ground.
Boom! Adrian, caught off guard in the middle of his laughter, suddenly found himself slammed against the bar’s support pillar by Robin. “You asked for death; I’ll gladly deliver!”
Instead of ending it swiftly, Robin unleashed a relentless flurry of punches upon Adrian’s body.
Bang! Bang! Bang!”
Each blow reverberated with dull thuds as Adrian’s bones cracked beneath the force.
Robin was determined to shatter every bone in Adrian’s body, leaving him to succumb to a haze of pain and despair.
Adrian was powerless to defend himself against Robin’s unyielding onslaught, while his crew stood paralyzed in fear, none daring to step in. The four armed men nearby were equally immobilized by the intensity radiating from Robin, momentarily forgetting their own responsibilities. Before they could react, Robin swiftly disassembled their rifles into a heap of parts, leaving only one intact.
He pressed the barrel against Adrian’s forehead, who, despite his dire situation, managed to maintain a twisted grin, his face smeared with blood. “The cops and the Harlows will be here any minute. If you’ve got the guts, go ahead and kill me!” Adrian cackled. “Heh, if you kill me, none of you will walk away alive!”
“Want to die? I can arrange that.” Robin nodded, disengaging the safety on the rifle and pulling the trigger.
Click! The sound of the firing pin striking an empty chamber echoed through the bar, eliciting gasps from the onlookers.
Adrian, taken aback, felt a wave of fear wash over him as he realized Robin was genuinely willing to shoot him.
Robin shrugged and joked, “Oh, I forgot to load the bullets!”
With a quick flick of his wrist, he replaced the magazine and aimed the gun once more at Adrian’s head.
This time, Adrian’s confidence began to wane.
“Robin, if you pull that trigger, you and your sister’s family will pay dearly!”
“Is that so?” Robin responded coldly, flicking off the safety. “If we’re all destined to die, you might as well go first!”
“Ah! You can’t shoot me!” Adrian screamed, his voice tinged with rising fear.
At that moment, Conrad seized Adrian’s wrist. “Robin, don’t do this here!”
Robin understood the warning-he needed to keep a level head.
Acting recklessly could provoke the Demberoa military’s intervention.
If the government troops got involved, the situation would spiral out of control.
“Robin, just let him go for now. I’ll deal with this myself.
“I will kill this jerk, but not just yet!” Conrad insisted. “I have to think about my sick mother … ”
Robin knew exactly what was weighing on Conrad’s mind.
Hearing Conrad’s words gave Adrian a renewed sense of courage. “Let me go right now! The police and the Harlows in Chinatown are all backing me. If you kill me, you’ll all be doomed!”
en FindNovel
Robin smirked icily. “Oh really? Not only will I kill you today, but I’ll make it quite a show!”
He shifted the aim of the gun to Adrian’s left shoulder.
Bang!
Adrian’s shoulder exploded as the bullet tore through, shattering his arm.
“Ah! You lunatic, I will make you pay for this!”
The Grimwolf Crew rushed in, weapons at the ready to defend their leader.
“Back off! Or I swear I’ll blow his brains out!” Robin shouted, pivoting the gun to Adrian’s other shoulder.
Bang!
A second shot echoed through the
bar, and Adrian’s screams
more frantic as his right arm.
suffered the same fate
Adrian’s eyes widened in sheer terror as he faced the unyielding expression on Robin’s face.
He recalled Conrad’s earlier words, and they now felt hauntingly real.
“Robin, please let me go… I was just joking…
”
Panic washed over Adrian as he began to plead.
“I don’t joke about this; every word I say is serious,” Robin replied coldly, aiming the gun at Adrian’s left knee.
“Don’t rush; we’re far from finished.
“I promised you a dramatic end, and I will see it through!
“You’ll feel the pain of life slipping away, longing for it all to be over!
“Brace yourself, because I’m about to pull the trigger again!”
Adrian could only stare in horror at Robin’s emotionless demeanor.
What a terrifying devil he had encountered!
He had once believed himself a monster, but now he realized he was nothing compared to Robin.
Bang!
The bullet ripped through Adrian’s left knee, creating a grotesque wound.
“Are you ready?” Robin asked with a chilling smile, shifting the gun to Adrian’s right knee.
Adrian felt himself on the verge of breaking down, crying out, “Robin, you’re a devil! Please, just let me go!”
Robin grinned, “A devil? Are you finally realizing it now?
“Where was your bravado when you took that innocent girl’s life?
“Begging for mercy now? It’s far too late!”
Before Adrian could continue his frantic pleas, Robin pulled the trigger once more, cold and resolute.
Bang!
Adrian’s other leg shattered as well.
Everyone thought Adrian was
finished, but Robin flashed a wicked
grin at the barely conscious man.
“Let’s make this even more
memorable!”
He aimed the gun at Adrian’s groin.
Adrian trembled uncontrollably, then let out a heart-wrenching wail, “Robin, you really are a devil!”
“Congratulations, you got it right again!” Robin beamed, squeezing the trigger.
Bang! The shot rang out, turning Adrian’s manhood into a gruesome mess.
The gunshot reverberated through the Dreamscape Bar, plunging the atmosphere into a tense silence. Robin’s chilling brutality left everyone in shock.
No one had expected him to unleash such reckless violence in front of the terrifying figure of Chinatown.
He didn’t just break Adrian’s limbs; he also savagely destroyed Adrian’s manhood, turning the once-feared tyrant into a mere shadow of his former self.
Even if Adrian somehow survived this ordeal, he would endure a fate far worse than death.
For someone as despicable as him, Robin was determined to ensure he lived a life filled with torment.
A quick death would be too kind for this filth.
Nearby, Alison watched in horror, trembling at the horrifying scene.
She had never imagined that Robin could be so cruel.
His brazen act had completely alienated him from the Grimwolf Crew.
Stepping forward, she shot a furious glare at Robin. “I can’t believe you could be this heartless!
“You’ve struck out at them and disrespected the Grimwolf Crew. That woman is going to have to deal with the fallout of your actions.
“Have you even considered what might happen next?
“Dreamscape Bar and Brenda’s family are going to face severe repercussions because of your recklessness!
“They will retaliate against you for your actions!”
Brenda quickly intervened, pulling Alison back. “Alison, how can you say that? The Grimwolf Crew are monsters. Robin did nothing wrong!”
“Ha! Brenda, have you thought about the consequences? What about you and Marrisa?” Alison retorted, anger radiating from her.
“He’s got that woman shielding him, but who will protect you and Marrisa?
“Using such brutal methods against Adrian, do you really think the Grimwolf Crew and their allies will just let this go?”
Robin slightly narrowed his eyes, his gaze shifting to Alison’s furious expression.
“Cruel?” Robin replied with a cold smile. “What about the death of Conrad’s sister? Isn’t that cruel?”
“What… “Alison scoffed, shaking her head in disbelief. “Hah, who do you think you are?”
With an unreadable expression, Robin turned away, dismissing her.
Conrad sighed, overwhelmed by the grim reality.
This calamity was initially his burden alone, yet Robin had inevitably become a part of it.
It was both shocking and somehow predictable.
Robin had fought by his side through perilous times, leading him to seriously injure Adrian in a confrontation with the Grimwolf Crew to avenge Charis. Everything Robin did was for Conrad.
This was a bond forged through shared struggle!
He resolved that he could no longer hold back.
The Grimwolf Crew, alongside the Harlows of Chinatown and the corrupt officers of Terenova, would retaliate against Robin.
He could already picture the lengths they might go to.
But let it be; if it came to that, he would stand with Robin and turn this dark world upside down!
If fate wouldn’t grant him a simple, ordinary life, he would carve out a peaceful existence for himself!
Since returning from Fricana, he had endured far too much.
If not for his loved ones, Adrian and his gang would have long been dead.
“Robin, you should take Brenda and leave. I think the Harlows and the police will arrive soon.
“You’re not from Terenova; it could get messy for you here.”
Darren shook his head in resignation. “Robin, just go. This situation isn’t likely to end well.
“Still, I have some connections with Sheriff Roland in Terenova.
“I’ll explain everything to him-”
Suddenly, the wailing of sirens shattered the air.
A tall, heavyset officer burst into the bar, flanked by a dozen armed police officers.
The patrons inside the bar quickly recoiled in fear.
A group of about twelve police officers had their firearms trained on Robin. “Drop your weapon and put your hands on your head!” one officer commanded. Robin discarded his assault rifle without hesitation.
Yet, instead of following their orders, he took out a wet wipe and started to clean his hands.
Conrad, observing the scene, made up his mind.
If Robin made any move, he would unleash havoc without a second thought.
The sheriff leading the group was Roland Corbyn from the Chinatown precinct.
He rushed over to Adrian, who was just beginning to regain his senses. “Mr. Howler! Are you okay?”
Adrian, still in a panic, shouted, “Sheriff Roland, arrest him! I want him dead!”
Roland shifted his attention to Robin, his expression fierce. “Don’t worry, Mr. Howler. I’ll ensure justice is served!”
He gestured toward the doctor accompanying him. “Get him stabilized right away!”
Then Roland turned back to Robin, his tone dripping with contempt. “You lunatic! How dare you shoot someone in broad daylight?
“Today, no matter how influential your connections may be even if the King of Hell himself shows up-I’ll ensure you face justice!”
He pointed at the armed officers
behind him, barking orders, “This man is a violent threat; take him back to the station! If he resists, shoot him immediately!”
Robin studied Roland with an icy stare.
These so-called officers wore uniforms, but they were no different from Adrian-perhaps even worse.
If it came down to it, he wouldn’t hesitate to eliminate them all!
He neatly folded the wet wipe and placed it on the table.
Conrad stepped in, saying, “Sheriff Roland, this has nothing to do with him; I’m the one who shot Adrian. I acted in anger upon learning that this monster killed my sister
“If you’re looking to arrest someone, then take me!” he insisted. “Given my past assistance to your department in solving major cases, you should let my friend go.”
Roland scoffed, smacking Conrad on the chest with the back of his hand. “Hah, do you think you have any credibility with me?
“Conrad, if it weren’t for you and your sister exposing the Grimwolf Crew’s drug activities, I wouldn’t have faced reprimand from the Terenova elite!
“And I wouldn’t have been stuck in this dead-end position for years without a promotion!
“You really think you can just come here and expect me to let him go? Not a chance! “Arrest them both!”
Conrad clenched his fists, ready to fight if necessary.
Today, Robin had thrust this conflict into the open as he sought revenge for Charis.
He wouldn’t allow Terenova’s corrupt officers to take him away.
Darren also stepped forward, pleading, “Sheriff Roland, this all started at Dreamscape Bar. Please let Mr. Robin go; I’ll explain everything later.
“And I’ll have the bar staff send you some money immediately-”
Before he could finish, Roland interrupted sharply. “Darren, are you attempting to bribe me in front of everyone?
“I’m an honest officer and won’t let any scumbag go just because of your dirty money. Get out of my way!”
With a heavy sigh, Darren understood that this incident was already tangled up with the Grimwolf Crew and the Harlows.
No amount of money would persuade Roland.
“Take them away!”
As the officers moved toward Robin, a melodic voice called out from outside the bar. “Wait!”
Bathed in the soft glow of the bar’s lights, Robin saw a graceful figure approaching.
Dressed in a striking red trench coat, with a fresh bob haircut and an exquisitely beautiful face, she stepped into view.
Roland and the officers quickly parted to let her through.
“Anna!”
Robin’s heart raced, as if it had been pierced by a dagger.
Seven years later, that pure, radiant face had reappeared before him once again…
Seven years ago, on a dusky evening.
The ancient Crescent Lane in Chinatown was awash in golden hues from the sunset.
Robin vividly recalled the warm, breathtaking beauty of that day’s sunset.
It was his first day working at the Dreamscape Bar.
A girl, around 13 or 14, suddenly caught his attention.
She lingered at the entrance, hesitating to step inside.
Bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun, she stood there like a delicate fairy who had just emerged from another realm.
She wore a long, floral dress, and her short hair was fresh and pure, framing a delicate, fair face.
Together with the gentle breeze, the sunset, and the charm of the old street, she created a stunningly beautiful scene.
Her aura was so pure and ethereal and untouched worldly concerns, too delicate to be disturbed.
However, this serene and striking image was soon disrupted by a group of unruly thugs.
The thugs shoved the girl, trying to drag her into a private room on the second floor of the bar.
Without a second thought, Robin rushed in.
Using the fighting techniques he had learned from Old Fred, he quickly drove off the thugs and rescued the girl.
She introduced herself as Anna but revealed nothing more.
From that day forward, she stayed at the Dreamscape Bar with Robin.
At the time, Darren was merely a junior manager at the bar, and he kindly assumed that Anna was either an orphan or a young lady suffering from amnesia, having run away from home and lost her way back. So, he asked the boss to prepare a guest room for Anna.
Anna stayed at the Dreamscape Bar for three months.
During that time, she was always by Robin’s side, inseparable from him.
In the beginning, Anna silently followed Robin around, always close behind.
Whenever Robin was busy, she would lend a hand and help him with his work.
When Robin took a break, she would sit across from him, resting her chin on her hands and watching him quietly.
As time passed, Anna began to talk more and smile.
Later, Anna followed Robin, happily flitting around the Dreamscape Bar like a beautiful butterfly.
She became a stunning sight in the Dreamscape Bar.
Her presence added a touch of freshness and joy to the dull work atmosphere.
But good times are always too short.
Robin’s adolescent heart, filled with the excitement of youth, was abruptly broken.
It was a rainy evening.
Robin was busy in the back of the bar when Darren told him that Anna was leaving.
Confused, Robin had no idea what was going on.
He assumed it was another encounter with those thugs bothering her.
Without saying a word, he grabbed a fruit knife and rushed outside.
Darren grabbed his arm, a look of reluctance on his face. “Maybe her family has come to take her home.”
“Her family?” Robin was confused by Darren’s words. “Isn’t Anna an orphan?” Darren shook his head. “Robin, you and she may not be from the same world.” Understanding Darren’s implication, Robin followed him to the front of the bar.
At that moment, Anna had already left the bar and was getting into a Mercedes.
As Robin tried to rush over to speak with her, two men blocked his way.
On that drizzly evening, Anna said nothing.
She quietly left the Dreamscape Bar-and Robin-as if she had never been there at all, leaving without a trace.
And with that, seven years passed.
Robin accompanied Old Fred on a dangerous new path, leaving Terenova behind.
Since then, he had not seen Anna again.
Though he sometimes reme
about the fresh and ethereal girl from the Dreamscape Bar, those memories no longer stirred any emotions in him.
As time passed, some people and experiences inevitably drifted away.
No matter how wonderful those moments had been, they could only remain forever locked in the memories of that time and place. Robin had thought that once he set foot on this path, he would never see Anna again.
Little did he know, seven years later, he found himself face-to-face with her once again-under such an inappropriate circumstance. Everyone in the bar turned toward the entrance, captivated by the woman’s enchanting voice.
A stunning sight greeted them.
Anna walked in surrounded by bodyguards, oblivious to everyone around her.
Sheriff Roland Corbyn, who had intended to reprimand her for disrupting his duties, found his words of anger stuck in his throat.
Roland shuddered, relieved that he didn’t speak out of anger.
Angering someone like Ms. Harlows would not be a good idea.
“Hello, Ms. Harlow.” He greeted her respectfully as he approached.
But Anna brushed past him, completely ignoring his presence, and continued into the bar.
Darren, recognizing her, was filled with surprise.
With Anna here, Robin could escape this situation.
After all, he had saved Anna years ago.
In those carefree years, both had developed a vague, innocent affection for each other.
Although they were unable to hold onto that blossoming romance, that bond was strong enough for Anna to help Robin get out of this conflict many years later.
Brenda stared in astonishment, her mouth agape, as she recognized the stunning woman who had just arrived.
The formidable presence of this woman could only be Anna, the bar girl Robin had frequently mentioned seven years ago!
Alison leaned in, whispering, “Who is she? She seems to have quite an impressive background.”
Brenda quietly shared the story of Anna and Robin’s youthful connection.
When Alison looked back at Anna and Robin, her eyes were filled with jealousy and disdain.
Brenda said, “It looks like both the sheriff and the Grimwolf Crew are wary of her. Robin should be okay now!”
Alison sneered. “Robin is truly pathetic, relying on a woman to act all high and mighty!”
At that moment, Roland noticed that Anna was ignoring him, so he quickened his pace to catch up to her.
“Ms. Harlow, what brings you here? This place is currently a crime scene and very dangerous.”
As the sheriff of Chinatown in Terenova, Roland understood Anna’s significance within the Harlows.
The Harlows were one of the few prominent families in Terenova.
Anna’s father, Nathan Harlow, had special ties with the upper echelons of the Demberoa government.
He had three children, with two sons
holding prominent positions in Demberoa’s military and political spheres, wielding considerable
influence.
While Anna was the future heir of the family.
The Harlows were ranked among the top five most powerful families in Demberoa.
Roland observed that Anna was heading directly toward Robin’s direction.
He quickly warned, “Ms. Harlow, this man is dangerous! He’s the one who shot Adrian!”
“Roland, shut your mouth!” Anna replied coldly.
Then she turned to Robin, extending her pale, slender hand with indifference.
“Robin, it’s quite surprising to see you here.
“Especially in this situation.”
Does Ms. Harlow know Robin?
Roland was taken aback by the scene before him.
From the way they spoke, it appeared that the two had known each other for quite some time.
If that were true, today’s situation has just become more complicated.
Roland quickly assessed the various relationships and their implications in his mind.
He glanced again at Adrian, who was wrapped up in his wheelchair.
He realized that the president of the Grimwolf Crew was utterly done for.
Even if he survived, he could never reclaim his position as the leader.
The Harlows would never trust a cripple to handle their affairs.
In this case, the matter of Robin shooting and seriously injuring Adrian depended on the attitude of the Harlows.
Anna’s chilly and distant greeting snapped Robin back to his senses.
Before him stood the aloof Ms. Harlow, no longer the fresh-faced girl with short hair from years ago.
Her once-radiant smile had long since vanished, lost to the drizzling twilight of that evening seven years ago.
As Anna extended her hand, Robin made no move to respond.
Instead, he smiled indifferently, saying, “Life is full of surprises.”
Anna awkwardly pulled back her hand, raising her gaze to scrutinize him.
Observing his nonchalant demeanor, a flash of annoyance and disdain flickered in her eyes.
“I just got back to Terenova after studying in Autreynia,” Anna remarked, eyeing Robin again. “What have you been doing all these years?” Robin shrugged nonchalantly. “Oh, nothing importand, just spent a few years hanging out in Fricana.”
Anna’s disdain deepened. “After all this time, how did you end up like this?”
“Is that so? Does this really bother you?” Robin said with a teasing smile, glancing at Darren beside him.
Anna shook her head with a dismissive huff and turned her gaze to Darren.
Darren lowered his head, the joy in his eyes fading instantly.
He didn’t expect Anna’s meeting with Robin would turn out like this.
Every word oozed arrogance and disdain.
Brenda was taken aback!
She never imagined that seven years later, Anna would become so unfamiliar.
At that moment, her heart ached for her.
Because she could see the fleeting disappointment and sadness in Robin’s eyes.
“Ms. Harlow, do you know him?”
Adrian, wrapped in bandages and sitting in a wheelchair, was pushed toward Anna by a few subordinates.
Anna replied flatly, “Just an acquaintance from seven years ago.”
Darren furrowed his brow in surprise.
He looked up at the aloof Anna, a bittersweet smile crossing his face.
She actually called Robin just an acquaintance from seven years ago?
Those words made him feel heartbroken.
Darren instinctively turned to Robin.
He recalled how, back then, Robin and Anna were the perfect couple of Dreamscape Bar.
They brought joy to their colleagues and customers, who quietly wished for their lifelong happiness together.
Even if circumstances had kept them from being lifelong partners, they shouldn’t have fallen so far as to become nothing more than acquaintances! Robin couldn’t help but laugh at himself.
Those harsh years had certainly changed a lot of things.
It made the sincere even more sincere and the hypocritical even more so.
“Ms. Harlow, this is the person who injured me and openly challenged the Grimwolf Crew,” Adrian said, surprised that Anna knew Robin.
“I’m already aware of that,” Anna replied, nodding as she instinctively glanced at several of Adrian’s wounds.
Adrian continued, “Ms. Harlow, he didn’t just injure my limbs, he also crushed my balls! I won’t be able to use it again! I want to kill him!”
Anna frowned in annoyance. “I see. Don’t worry, the Harlows will ensure you get justice. Now, please go rest.”
After saying this, Anna turned to Robin and shook her head. “Robin, I remember you as a bright and kind person. “After seven years, how did you become so ruthless?”
“You didn’t just shoot Mr. Howler and ruin his manhood, you also seriously injured Drew and Matthew!
“Robin, I’m disappointed to see you like this.
“Do you even know who Adrian and the others are?
“He’s the leader of the Terenova’s Grimwolf Crew, a group that even the capital of Terenova has to treat with some respect.
“And yet you made their leader, Adrian, in this condition! What am I supposed to say about you?
“If I hadn’t arrived in time, the police would have already taken you away!
“Robin, you should go. But I have to hand Conrad over to the Grimwolf Crew!”
At this, Conrad stepped forward and said, “Robin, just leave and don’t come back to Terenova.”
Robin laughed. “I have so many
good friends in Terenova, and I haven’ even had a drink yet. How can just walk away?” He turned to
Darren. “What do you thin
Darren sighed in resignation. “Robin, Conrad has a point. You should leave. Ms. Harlow also said that.”
Robin smiled coldly. “Ms. Harlow
said that? Ha! Who does she think she is? Just because she told me to leave, I’m supposed to? I don’t take orders like that!”
Anna was taken aback by Robin’s words, her eyes flashing coldly.
The two bodyguards behind her stepped forward.
“How dare you speak to Ms. Harlow like that?”
“Who do you think you are? You want to scold me? I’ll kill you!” Robin shot back with a mocking grin, swinging his hand toward them.
The two imposing bodyguards were sent flying back instantly.
“Robin, how could you be so impolite?” Anna exclaimed angrily, glaring at him.
“Talk about politeness with someone who scolds me?” Robin smiled coldly.
“Seven years ago, when a bunch of thugs were bullying you, why didn’t you let me talk to them about politeness?”
“Y-You!” Anna’s lips trembled in anger, but she eventually composed herself.
“Fine, Robin. You can go. Consider it a repayment of your kindness seven years ago.”
Robin sneered. “Seven years ago? I don’t remember. But I appreciate your concern.
“I won’t leave until we settle things with Conrad.
“Robin, how can you be so unreasonable?” Anna exclaimed, her agitation rising.
“The situation with Conrad has long been settled. Do you really think you have the power to change that?
“If you don’t appreciate the opportunity I’m giving you, you’ll regret it!”
At this point, Anna noticed that Robin remained completely unfazed.
She let out a long sigh.
“Robin, I don’t know what your relationship with Conrad is.
“I can negotiate with them and let Conrad leave with you.
“But you need to apologize to Adrian, and I’ll handle the aftermath.
“From now on, don’t act so recklessly. If you provoke someone you can’t handle again, no one will come to your aid like I am now.
“After this incident, you need to reflect on yourself; otherwise, you’ll find yourself in a lot of trouble!”
Robin looked at the aloof woman before him and burst into laughter. “Are you serious? Apologize to some scoundrel? Ms. Harlow, you must be dreaming! Hahaha.”
