NOVEL NEXT Chapter 95: Chapter 95
"Sir, please don't lie on the roof naked."
The hotel staff member spoke, her professional tone barely concealing the tight smile on her face.
She was a striking woman with a delicate, attractive figure and well-defined features. However, her attitude toward Bardi was less than reverent.
This wasn't the first time she'd dealt with him. For the past three days, she'd found him atop the roof every morning, lying there in plain view. It had become a routine.
This peculiar habit had caused a considerable stir at the hotel. Numerous couples had argued over it, guests had lodged formal complaints, and the situation had drawn more than a few disgruntled stares.
On the other hand, many women across the street had begun dressing up earlier in the morning just to catch a glimpse of him. They gazed unabashedly, some even salivating as they admired his impeccable physique.
"Sir, your behavior is disrupting the normal operations of the hotel," the woman said pointedly, maintaining her composure.
Before she could react, a shadow loomed in front of her.
Bardi stood tall, stepping out from the sunlight that illuminated his broad chest and perfectly proportioned frame. His imposing figure towered over hers, and she instinctively realized how small she was compared to him—her head barely reached his neck.
Her breathing hitched, her face flushed, and her heart began to race uncontrollably. She could feel the warmth radiating from him, his presence overwhelming her senses.
It took everything she had not to lose her composure as she handed him his clothes. She felt annoyed and indignant, hating the way her body betrayed her emotions.
She had been warned not to cross him under any circumstances. If she did, there would be no future for her in Metropolis.
Her sense of self-preservation outweighed her irritation. This was, after all, Tobias Whale's territory. Those who disobeyed his commands often disappeared without a trace.
Still, despite her fear and resentment, she couldn't suppress the small flicker of frustration and helpless anger that gnawed at her.
Bardi, however, appeared oblivious to her inner turmoil. Dressed now, he began his breakfast—an elegant spread of nutritious salads, crispy bacon, fried eggs, and a steaming cup of Geisha coffee. The aromatic brew was one of the most expensive coffees in the world, and naturally, those under Bardi's influence ensured he had only the best of everything.
This was the unseen privilege of power. Everything revolved around him, every effort meticulously designed to please and cater to him.
As he finished his breakfast, Bardi stirred his coffee absentmindedly. The bitter, unsweetened flavor made him frown slightly, but he sipped it without complaint.
When he was done, he gestured for the hotel staff member to leave and instructed her to summon Tobias Whale.
Relieved that she wouldn't have to endure further discomfort, the woman gave a polite nod and hurried out. However, as she walked away, a small, fleeting pang of regret crossed her mind.
---
Nearly a week had passed since the explosion at the military camp in the southern suburbs.
General Ryan had pinned the blame squarely on Deathstroke, declaring him a wanted criminal with the highest bounty in U.S. history. Facing relentless pursuit, Deathstroke had fled to Africa, where he began laying the groundwork to build his forces.
He knew Bardi intended to consolidate power in Metropolis, and as someone who lived for vengeance, Deathstroke had no intention of letting him succeed uncontested. He was preparing for war, determined to establish his own stronghold in Africa and challenge Bardi's growing influence.
Tobias Whale arrived shortly after being summoned. He stepped into the room, his bulky frame nearly brushing the doorframe.
"Boss," Tobias said respectfully, his head slightly bowed. "The remnants of The 100 have been dealt with. This area is fully under your control."
Tobias's posture was deferential, the picture of a loyal subordinate.
Bardi barely glanced at him, taking another sip of his coffee. "Take 80% of the funds from The 100's assets and transfer them to me. Leave 20% to keep operations running."
The request—or rather, the command, landed like a hammer blow. Tobias was stunned.
The 100 had amassed significant wealth over decades of operation. Stripping 80% of its assets would cripple its financial foundation, leaving only a shell of what it once was.
This was no mere redistribution of resources; it was the complete hollowing out of his organization's reserves.
For a fleeting moment, Tobias's surprise flashed across his face before he masked it. Lowering his gaze to the ground, he quickly schooled his expression into one of calm submission.
"Yes, boss," he said, his voice steady. "I also have some personal assets. I'll make them available to you as well."
He delivered the response without hesitation, as if eager to prove his loyalty.
Bardi leaned back on the plush sofa, swirling his coffee absentmindedly. He studied Tobias carefully, noting the subtle tension in the man's stance.
It was clear Tobias wasn't pleased, though he hid it well. Anyone in his position would feel the same. No one enjoyed being stripped of their wealth and power, yet Tobias remained outwardly composed.
It spoke to his character. Tobias was a man who knew how to play the game, a man who valued survival over pride.
Bardi's gaze was sharp, cutting through Tobias's facade.
"Don't let your thoughts wander," Bardi said coldly. "This city, this entire metropolis is my territory. Whatever power you think you still hold here is an illusion."
He set his coffee down, leaning forward slightly.
"I plan to extend my influence across the entire United States, starting with this city. Prepare yourself. Soon, I'll send you to California to oversee the Coast City."
Bardi's tone was matter-of-fact, leaving no room for discussion.
"Bruno will contribute 80% of his funds as well. He'll be stationed in Star City, not far from you. Between the two of you, whoever manages to seize control of California first will have the advantage."
His expression darkened slightly, his voice dropping lower.
"I'll have many positions available in the future, but only those with the ability to rise to the challenge will move up. If you're thinking of rebellion, I suggest you weigh your chances carefully."
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