Chapter 486

Zero's unusual behavior alarmed the highest echelons of DarkKingdom.

The Director personally sought him out, his expression grave. "Explain yourself."

Leaning against the window, Zero spun a coin between his fingers. "I needed money."

"Preposterous!" The Director slammed his palm on the desk. "Five billion means nothing to you. Assassinating a king would've been child's play for someone of your skills."

The coin flashed silver in the air before Zero caught it effortlessly. "I failed."

"The Dark Web has already sent envoys." The Director's brow furrowed. "Do you expect me to hand you over?"

For the first time in his twenty-year reign over DarkKingdom, the Director felt powerless. Though nominally his subordinate, Zero was an untouchable legend within the organization.

"Hand me over." Zero's voice was eerily calm.

The Director's pupils constricted. "Have you lost your mind? Neither the Dark Web nor the Eudoran royal family will let you live."

"It's my burden to bear." Zero met his gaze. "My apologies for implicating the organization."

After a long silence, the Director spoke. "Fifty billion. The organization can lend it to you."

"No need."

The Director sensed something amiss. Was this Zero's way of cutting ties? Yet this young man was the most suitable successor.

Hours later, Zero's phone vibrated.

His account now held an additional five billion.

No note accompanied the transfer.

But he knew exactly who sent it.

The money arrived just in time.

Yet what Zero desired went far beyond this.

......

Vivian Laurent stared at the successful transfer notification, her fingers trembling.

This was all the liquid capital she could mobilize.

With her project's funding stretched thin, she'd nearly drained every available resource.

"Is it worth it?" Isabella Langley asked, concern lacing her voice.

"Money can be earned back." Vivian massaged her temples. "The project will yield returns soon."

"But five billion?"

Gazing out the window, Vivian murmured, "I only fear it won't be enough."

Isabella squeezed her hand. "At least you tried your best."

Late into the night, Vivian tossed restlessly.

Zero's predicament and Ethan Roscente's relentless pursuit weighed on her like twin mountains.

She yanked the blanket over her head.

Enough!

Tomorrow awaited another battle with that difficult client.