The King Of War Returns (Jaden Rift) novel Chapter 86

The Next Day

Gray clouds loomed over the city like a curtain of judgment. The streets, normally quiet at this hour, were buzzing with an uneasy tension. Dozens of men stood stationed at every intersection, alley, rooftop, and building. Their black suits, sunglasses, and earpieces made them look more like elite operatives than mere hired guns.

The butler—an older man with sharp features, silver-streaked hair, and the calm demeanor of someone who'd seen too much—walked among them, hands clasped behind his back.

“Positions,” he barked. “I want full lockdown. No one goes in. No one comes out. Understood?”

“Yes, sir!” the men responded in unison, their voices crisp and alert.

One of the younger enforcers stepped forward hesitantly. “Big brother… are we not giving these robbers too much face? This setup… it’s like preparing for a royal procession.”

A few of the others chuckled, but the butler didn’t. He exhaled a plume of smoke from his cigarette, eyes narrowed like a hawk surveying prey.

“The lion doesn’t fight the rabbit with half his strength,” he said coldly. “That kind of arrogance is how lions die.”

He turned and took a long drag, his tone turning smug. “Besides… when this is all over, I’ll be the first to receive Master Williams’ personal thanks. Maybe even a bonus.” He smiled, savoring the thought. “A man can dream, can’t he?”

Another of the men checked his wristwatch. “Boss, only ten minutes left until the kidnapper’s deadline. But there’s still no sign of anyone. Think they got scared off?”

“Hah!” the butler scoffed, stroking his stubbled chin. “You don’t know this guy. Anyone who has the guts to kill Baron and kidnap Peter right out from under our noses—he’s not the type to run from a fight.”

“Maniac…” someone muttered.

“A dangerous one,” the butler agreed. “So keep your eyes open and your safety off. He’ll come.”

“Got it, boss.”

As the final minutes ticked down, the tension grew heavier. Every man’s finger hovered near his trigger. The order had been clear—neutralize the intruder instantly. One clean shot.

But the butler raised a hand for silence, his tone now sharp. “Remember—Peter must not be harmed. He’s the only remaining heir of the Gravesend legacy. One mistake… and we’ll all be buried before the sun sets.”

The air shifted. Even the wind seemed to pause.

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