Chapter 248 A Frightening


    Existence


    "Did you invite Jules from the Ford family?" Zack asked, shifting the topic.


    Moses responded with a nomittal nod, "Indeed, this city isn''t exactly our domain. Here in Lyhaton, the Ford familymands a certain deference."


    At the mention of the Ford family, a hint of interest sparked briefly in Nate''s otherwise


    detached demeanor.


    At that instant, Jules was escorted into their enclosure by the manager.


    His eyes flickered over Moses and Zack before settling on Nate.


    A subtle shift in his expression followed-something unreadable, a mix of emotions buried deep within.


    The three men in front of him weren''t the kind you crossed lightly-especially Nate, who sat quietly in the corner.


    Jules acknowledged each in turn. "Greetings, Mr. Seymour, Mr. Liam."


    Zack lifted his goblet in a silent toast before motioning for him to take a seat beside


    Moses.


    With a measured grace, Jules approached and seated himself, though his nces were irresistibly drawn back to Nate.


    A vague sense of familiarity nagged at him, yet the exact memory eluded him. At that moment, Zack offered him a ss of wine.


    epting it, Jules sipped his drink, his gaze inevitably wandering back to Nate.


    Nate reclined with ease, his slightly unbuttoned shirt revealing the defined lines of his corbone, which lent him an air of effortless allure and raw power. He exuded an overwhelming sense of control and charisma, demanding a quiet reverence even in


    repose.


    When Nate''s attention suddenly shifted toward him, Jules caught Nate''s cold stare and momentarily tensed.


    However, he faced Nate''s intimidating look with unwavering boldness.


    "That gentleman is Mr. Hopkins," Zack said. "Feel free to call him Nate."


    Realization dawned in Jules'' eyes.


    Whether it be Zack, Moses, or Nate, each belonged to a sphere far removed from the usual-the Independent Continent.


    It was vast and sprawling-not merely a city but arge stateposed of multiple


    cities.


    It held no allegiance to any nation or entity, nor to any global organization-it stoodpletely independent.


    The veil of secrecy around the Independent Continent was remarkably thick. Thus, only the upper echelons of global finance and world leaders knew about its


    existence.


    They said the Independent Continent was once home to four ancient families, but decades ago, a great upheaval shook its foundations.


    During this period, numerous powers observed eagerly, poised to exploit any vulnerability.


    Surprisingly, the internal turmoil settled swiftly, and the power dynamics of the four families were radically transformed overnight.


    The influence of the Hopkins familymanded immense respect, even among the senior leaders of the Independent Continent.


    Jules'' eyes sparkled briefly as he finished his drink in one gulp.


    With the arrival of additional guests, the ambiance became more vibrant, and a game


    of dicemenced.


    There''s an old saying that a happy disposition attracts good fortune. Considering today was the opening day of his bar, Moses thought luck would be on his side. Unfortunately, Moses was on a streak of bad luck, swiftly consuming every drink ced before him.


    Observing the unfolding events, Mosesmented, "Mr. Ford, tonight seems to be


    favoring you exceptionally." With a cigarette loosely perched between his lips, he gave Jules a significant look.


    Jules returned the nce with a subtle smirk. "Seems fortune''s on my side tonight."


    Zack let out a tauntingugh, eyeing Moses provocatively. "No excuses now! You know the rules, drink up!"


    "I''m ready for another round." After extinguishing his cigarette, Moses rolled up his sleeves, containing his frustration. "I''ve never turned down a drinking challenge."