I snorted. He chose a good name.

Jaxon was about forty to fifty years old. He looked scary, like a stereotypical mobster. His pretentious swagger made me want to beat him up.

Six of his guards, who were his favorite subordinates, trailed after him. Lynn also slunk in behind him in a short, red dress.

People tutted and said, "Isn't that our boss' woman, Lynn?"

"To be exact, she was Mr. Davis' woman."

"Who told you that she was only Mr. Davis' woman? It's not like Mr. Wilde hasn't slept with her either."

"He's not the only one who's done so. I heard that Arthur and the other leaders have had long-term sexual relationships with her as well. She's public property now."

"As if. If she were public property, you could seek her out right now and see whether she'd let you have a go at her."

"Hey, Mr. Wilde always called her over during such gatherings. He's trying to tell everyone that our ex-leader's woman is now his plaything, isn't he? Hah!"

Everyone whispered as they entered.

I wanted to cover my ears to prevent myself from hearing their disgusting conversations. However, I couldn't.

I could no longer stand it. I told Quintus, "There's no need to wait anymore. Let's begin."

Quintus stood up immediately and walked toward the door.

I glared at Jaxon and pondered how Elijah had fallen into this asshole's trap and had Dragonshade Society stolen from under his nose.

Just as I was staring at him, I caught a familiar figure in the corner of my eye. It was Damian.

I watched him rush over to Jaxon and point at his wounds, grumbling incessantly. He was probably complaining about how I'd beat him up.

Jaxon frowned and gave him a glare. In a few sentences, he sent Damian off. Even Damian's own father didn't give a damn; why would Jaxon care? Damian stewed in a corner angrily.

Liana went over to me. Sparks flew when they made eye contact, but no one commented on it.

Suddenly, someone tapped the microphone. Jaxon had brought Liana onstage. She crossed her arms and was looking away, her gaze cool and brimming with hatred.

On the other hand, Jaxon was grinning. With the hand holding the microphone, he surveyed the room. Evidently, he was satisfied with the important people who'd shown up.

"Everyone, please pause what you're doing for a moment. Today's gathering is one among friends. At the same time, it is a celebratory feast to celebrate the fact that Dragonshade Society has claimed control over Quad District!"

Everyone clapped.

Jaxon was pleased. He continued, "We wouldn't have managed this without all your help! I've decided that everyone who helped in this will be given 500 dollars. Anyone who played an integral part will be rewarded with an additional 1,000 dollars!"

Everyone clapped.

I was affronted. Jaxon was being so petty!