Chapter 113

Larry burst out laughing. "Hahaha, that's a good one, Monte! Why would I need so many people for a meal? Do you think I'm a coward?"

Monte smiled genuinely. "Haha, not at all! Why would I think that, my friend? Draco Hall's reputation precedes you. I hear your strength rivals a grandmaster!"

Many tables were set up in a courtyard and hall. Wealthy businessmen, protected by the Cedar Gang, began to arrive. Their patronage ensured smooth operations in exchange for monthly payments to the gang.

Upon Larry and his men's arrival, several dozen people greeted them. The outwardly cordial relationship between Monte and Larry masked a simmering conflict between their factions.

"It's my honor to have you, Larry. Please, have a seat!" Monte led Larry's group to the main table. Besides Monte, One-Eye, and other high-ranking members, several prominent businessmen joined them.

Severin quietly took a seat beside Larry and Blade.

Monte frowned upon seeing Severin at the table. Assuming him to be one of Larry's subordinates, he was appalled by the perceived disregard for hierarchy.

One-Eye stared at Severin, bewildered. "You?!"

Surprised, Monte asked, "Do you know him, One-Eye?"

"He offended Jada Stone last night! I intervened, and we were bullied by Blade and his men!" One-Eye exclaimed.

Blade chuckled. "Jada's hardly a saint, plotting against Mister Severin. And you helped her?"

Provoked, One-Eye slammed his hands on the table, glaring at Blade. "This is Cedar Gang territory. Mind your words! I've been patient for long enough!"

Blade stood, fists clenched, glaring back. "What are you going to do? Fight? Let's settle this one-on-one!" Tension escalated; Cedar Gang members rose, taking a defensive stance.

One-Eye's face hardened. While powerful and one of Monte's best, he knew he was no match for Blade.

"Sit down, One-Eye! Enough! This is our second-in-command's birthday. Your actions are disrespectful!" Monte's faint smile signaled One-Eye to sit.

He could easily order an ambush to kill Larry or Blade, but a protracted fight would severely damage the Cedar Gang, even if they ultimately prevailed.

(Note: The promotional text at the end was removed as it was not part of the passage needing grammatical correction.)