The King Of War Returns (Jaden Rift) novel Chapter 139

Just as Jaden’s words settled like a sharp blade in the air, the guard returned, walking swiftly—this time flanked by several men in dark uniforms. Their polished shoes clicked rhythmically on the marble floor, but the one leading them commanded all the attention.

Captain Kelvin.

The man’s broad shoulders and military posture made heads turn as he marched closer, his expression unreadable—until his eyes landed on Jaden.

Kelvin froze mid-stride. His pupils dilated in recognition, a cold bead of sweat tracing his temple before he straightened himself and approached. His subordinates followed, glancing at one another in confusion at their captain’s sudden hesitation.

Then, to James’ utter disbelief, Kelvin’s stern expression cracked into one of forced politeness—tinged with fear. He extended his hand respectfully toward Jaden.

“M-My King…” Kelvin’s voice trembled despite his best effort to appear composed. “I… I wasn’t expecting you to grace our humble event. It’s… truly an honor to have you here.”

Jaden’s icy gaze drifted down to Kelvin’s trembling hand, then flicked back to meet his eyes.

“Are you… worthy enough to shake my hand?” Jaden asked, voice low, calm—yet dripping with quiet disdain.

Kelvin’s face blanched.

His extended hand recoiled immediately, fingers curling awkwardly into a fist as his composure crumbled. A nervous chuckle escaped him. “O-Of course not… I didn’t mean to overstep, sir… hah… forgive me…”

James’ jaw hung open, his mind racing to comprehend what he was witnessing.

“Brother Kelvin?” James finally blurted out, bewilderment written all over his face. “What… Why’re you acting like this…? He’s just—”

James’ words died in his throat as Kelvin, still drenched in nervous sweat, shot him a dangerous glare.

Kelvin forced another shaky smile, turning back to Jaden. “It’s… just that I didn’t expect to see you here. That’s all. Please excuse my reaction…”

James, still stuck in his own arrogance, muttered under his breath, “What the hell’s going on…? Why’s Brother Kelvin bowing to some random white kid…”

Before James could sink deeper into his foolishness, Jaden’s gaze snapped back to him, sharp as a blade.

“So…” Jaden’s voice cut through the tension like ice. “Do you… have a grudge against me?”

James flinched, confusion warring with dread. “Huh? I—”

Kelvin’s eyes widened in horror. His gaze whipped toward James, panic etched across his face.

“Wait… What’s happening here… Did you offend Master Jaden Rift?!” Kelvin’s voice boomed with disbelief, turning cold in an instant.

James blinked. His lips quivered. “W-What…? J-Jaden Rift…? You’re that Jaden Rift…? The one who ended the… the Gravesend Syndicate…?”

His legs buckled. His face turned pale.

Before James could utter another word, a crack echoed across the hall.

Kelvin’s palm collided with James’ cheek, snapping his head sideways. The sound rang out like a gunshot, silencing nearby chatter as heads turned.

“You brainless bastard!” Kelvin snarled, eyes ablaze with fury. “You dare utter his name like you’re equals? Call him—call him ‘Grandfather!’” His voice shook with both fear and rage.

Jaden, still as a statue, smiled faintly, fanning the flames.

“I don’t recall having a grandson who wanted me to kneel before him,” Jaden quipped, his voice carrying both mockery and quiet dominance.

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