Chapter 236
by post_apiChapter 236: The City in One’s Palm: Tatsumi City
Crown Tower
It was still the same hotel, the same room. Yet, the heads of the five major families gathered here were no longer the same individuals.
Seven people were present. Among them was an unfamiliar face: Xiu, the newly appointed head of the Capetian family and son of the previous leader. A young man with a pale complexion, his face glistened with sweat as he bore the weight of immense pressure.
“I… um…”
He attempted to speak but faltered, unable to find the words.
Seated beside him was the head of the Wettin family, a loyal follower of Count Gallard of Babel Tower. His youthful appearance radiated charisma. Handsome and lion-like, with golden locks framing his face, he exuded a dominating presence.
Gallard’s cold voice cut through the tension.
“It appears everyone is here. There’s no need for me to repeat myself.”
Next to Gallard sat Kesu, head of the Astor family. Tall and slender, with dark hair, a beard, and gold-rimmed glasses, he resembled a scholar. Kesu, deep in thought, remained silent. He was the adoptive uncle of Black Vulture, a notable member of the Astor family and a member of the Demon Hunt Agency’s “Problem Squad.”
Then came Bernard, head of the Guise family—a man whose lavish attire and obese physique drew attention. His face, ever smiling, masked a mix of fear, resentment, and helplessness.
Lastly, Phoenix, the former deputy head and now leader of the Augustus family, stood out. Impeccably dressed in a black suit, his captivating charm was matched by his calculated demeanor. A known ally of Babel Tower, Phoenix began:
“Today, we gather for one reason—the Babel Tower.”
Alongside the family heads were two representatives of Babel Tower: “Profligate” and “Psychic Dancer.”
Bai Yan sat silently at the head of the rectangular table. At his side was Maryse, wearing an expression of smug satisfaction. Her demeanor screamed, victory.
Bai Yan sighed inwardly. This “smug and petty” look suits a villain better… Aren’t we supposed to be the heroes saving the world?
Maryse, ecstatic, relished the moment. The five major families—bowing before her—was a scene straight out of her dreams.
Bai Yan shook his head, half amused. What a show-off. Maybe I should send her off to a remote corner of the world… if only this place had an Africa.
He surveyed the group calmly. Some avoided his gaze; others forced smiles.
“The Leaf King isn’t returning. Apart from the Demon Hunt Agency and the blood clan’s influence, your families are the only forces left in Tatsumi City,” Bai Yan began.
“Your families have toiled here for generations. I imagine none of you would willingly abandon your legacy. Joining Babel Tower will grant you greater power, but it comes at a price—you must obey the Savior’s commands.
“Refuse, and we will find ways to ensure your families no longer pose a problem.”
Bai Yan’s words, sharp and direct, left no room for misinterpretation. There was no time for pleasantries or debate. He spoke to provoke swift decisions.
“I’ve said my piece. Who’s in favor, and who’s against?”
Bernard, sweating profusely, stammered:
“I object! I… I mean, I’m in favor!”
Phoenix quickly chimed in:
“I agree. The Leaf King, in theory, rules Tatsumi City. Yet, he has shown no interest in its affairs. Why should we? The Babel Tower has saved this city repeatedly, selflessly protecting us. They deserve our allegiance.”
Kesu, resigned to his fate, added:
“The Astor family joins Babel Tower and pledges loyalty to the Savior.”
One by one, the family heads nodded, signing the contract presented by Maryse. Except for Count Gallard, who dealt directly with Bai Yan, the others became Non-core Operators under Maryse. Black numerals appeared on the backs of their hands, signifying their roles within the Babel Tower.
As the contracts were signed, Maryse’s satisfaction grew. If she had a tail, it would be wagging triumphantly.
Bai Yan observed her antics and sighed. This one’s getting carried away…
Demon Hunt Agency
In the director’s office, Raven Reaper, or Mo, prepared to assume leadership. The outgoing director, Mr. Trap, stood by his side, eyes clouded with memories and resignation.
Trap spoke solemnly:
“The role of director requires
sacrifices. You will bear the
weight of countless lives and
decisions. I know you didn’t
want this, but no one else is
qualified. I’m sorry.”
Mo interrupted, his voice firm:
“I understand now. I must take
this role. Only as director can I
protect Tatsumi City.”
Trap, surprised, observed the
transformation in Mo—the
once-isolated Night Watcher
now brimmed with
determination.
Mo declared:
“I will protect Tatsumi City.”
The golden light of the setting
sun bathed the room. Mo sat
in the director’s chair, mask
removed, revealing an
enchanting, determined face.
The appointed hour arrived. A knock echoed through the office.
“Come in,” Mo said, steadying
himself.
A masked envoy from Babel
Tower entered silently, his
presence oddly familiar.
Mo declared the Demon Hunt
Agency’s allegiance to Babel
Tower, signing the contract.
His choice weighed heavily,
knowing the potential
consequences.
As the contract concluded, the
envoy removed his mask,
revealing a calm yet familiar
face.
Mo’s eyes widened. “It’s you!”
The City in One’s Palm
Back at Babel Tower, Bai Yan
received a notification of
success. Tatsumi City now
firmly belonged to the Babel
Tower.
Achievement unlocked: The
City in One’s Palm: Tatsumi
City.
Exhaling deeply, Bai Yan
leaned back, savoring the
victory. The integration of
Tatsumi City is complete.
In the living room, Sylve, in her
beige nightgown, watched
television. News of
geopolitical tensions and
pending conflicts filled the
airwaves.
Turning to Bai Yan, she asked
earnestly:
“Mr. Moriarty, who do you think
is stronger—the Eyes of the
Empire or the Aliin invaders?”
Bai Yan replied calmly:
“Their power isn’t even
comparable. The Eyes of the
Empire is an unstoppable
force. The Aliin civilization
stands no chance.”
As Sylve smiled, Bai Yan
sighed inwardly. The world
might soon witness yet
another reaper’s descent.