Chapter 537: The Capital (1)

Hannah stared at Theodore, dazed.

Theodore said hurriedly, "Last year, I gave Oscar a limited-edition mobile phone for his birthday. I went to Country M and waited in line to buy it for him; it wasn't yet released domestically."

Manuel promptly turned to Hannah. "Did Oscar say 'mobile phone'?"

Hannah paused. "Yes, that's it."

"So, the evidence is on his phone," Manuel deduced.

"Oh, why didn't I think of that?" Theodore exclaimed, slapping his head. "Besides his computer, it could be on his phone!"

"It's easy to overlook what's stored there," Manuel said. "The most dangerous place is often the safest. Besides, Oscar has many hidden apps I installed and forgot about." He felt a pang of remorse.

"We need Oscar's phone," Hannah declared. The decision was made.

"His computer and phone have been confiscated," Manuel pointed out. "Formal procedures will arouse suspicion. If we don't go through official channels…" He looked at Theodore. "Is there another way to get Oscar's phone?"

"I don't know. I should ask my father," Theodore replied. "The person who framed Oscar is powerful. When I was imprisoned in River Town, my father intervened, but it was futile. It took days to secure my release. They may be unmoved by our pleas. I want to ask him, but I fear repercussions."

"So, neither a direct nor an indirect approach will work," Manuel summarized.

"Then we won't use our own methods," Hannah decided.

"What do you mean?" Manuel asked.

"Oscar's innocence is clear. We don't need to dig for more evidence; we need a fair trial," Hannah explained. "Our focus shouldn't be evidence, but a just hearing."

Manuel readily agreed. "Explain your plan."

"The Collins family holds immense power; anyone they protect will thrive. Charles is the mastermind, and the Collins family are backing him. They were even Oscar's judges. Even if we win, the culprit remains free! Is all Oscar's suffering worth it?"

"No!" Theodore growled. "I want to get my hands on Charles!"

"Exactly," Hannah said. "More importantly, this doesn't eliminate the threat. We might escape this time, but what about next time? We must make Charles suffer, strike a blow against the Collins family, and show them we won't be trifled with!"

"I agree wholeheartedly!" Theodore exclaimed, trembling with excitement.

"And the one who can deal with the Collins family…" Hannah paused, then Manuel finished her sentence:

"Is the Balderston family."

Hannah nodded. Theodore's face darkened. "The Balderstons aren't necessarily benevolent."

"No powerful family is purely good. But shared interests create alliances," Hannah countered. "The Balderstons and Collins have coexisted for years, not through genuine compromise, but because there’s no clear catalyst for conflict. Any rash action would backfire. Powerful families prioritize reputation. Our action provides the Balderstons with a justifiable reason to confront the Collins directly."

"You want to involve the Balderstons?" Theodore exclaimed, surprised.

"We have no other choice," Hannah stated firmly.

Theodore and Manuel fell silent, considering the implications.

"Otherwise," Hannah said plainly, "Charles will escape unscathed, regardless of Oscar's case outcome."

"Alright!" Theodore, ever impulsive, agreed. "Let's approach the Balderstons!"

Manuel nodded in agreement.

"Tomorrow morning, we go to the capital to see Melvin Balderston," Hannah announced. He's reportedly the most capable Balderston, highly influential, and best positioned to challenge the Collins family.

Theodore agreed.

"Theodore, come with me. Manuel, stay here to handle emergencies," Hannah directed.

"Okay."

"We'll drive, secretly," Hannah added.

"I understand," Theodore replied. "What time should we leave?"

"Rest well," Hannah advised. "There's no need to rush." It was a long drive—over twelve hours. Health was paramount. Nothing mattered without it.

"Let's leave in the evening," Theodore suggested. "Night travel is more discreet."

"Agreed."

"I'll make the arrangements," Theodore said, rising to leave.

"Manuel, go with Theodore. You've worked hard," Hannah said.

"Okay," Manuel replied, also rising.

They left promptly. Manuel drove Theodore home.

Late that night, Theodore remarked, "I think Hannah jump-started this 'war' years in advance."

Manuel chuckled. "Oscar once said she'd planned this ten years ahead! We shouldn't underestimate a woman's strength."

Theodore nodded, deeply impressed by Hannah's acumen.