Chapter 207  “Out of respect for me,” Silas said calmly, “how about we let this one go?”  Finley scoffed, resting his sword over his shoulder with an arrogant smirk. “Let this one go? Sorry, Mr. Vaughn, even if you’re personally here to plead, this little punk will bleed out on the spot tonight.”  The onlookers tensed, shocked that Finley would not even show respect to the auction host. Then again, the Hidden Dragons‘ reputation was formidable enough to back Finley’s audacity.  Most spectators silently fretted. If even Silas could not control Finley, Andrew might be in grave danger.  However, Silas looked at Finley as if he were an idiot. He barked, “You fool, when I said to let this slide, did you think I was begging you?”  The crowd was stunned by Silas‘ words.  Finley froze and darkly replied, “Silas, I don’t owe you any respect just because you’re Radiant Group’s CEO. You’d better back off.”  Silas raised a finger, nearly poking Finley in the face. “You little brat, you’re nothing more. than some minor relative of the sect leader, riding on the Hidden Dragons‘ coattails to throw your weight around.”  He continued, “Others might tolerate you, but I won’t. And let me make one thing clear- Radiant Group answers to the Onyx Serpents. Do you really think you’re untouchable? Well, we don’t fear you.”  Finley’s face instantly paled. Among Gabo Creek’s three martial arts clans, the Onyx Serpents and Hidden Dragons were sworn enemies.  Acting up on Onyx Serpents‘ territory was practically suicide, and even Hidden Dragons could not protect him if something happened.  To everyone’s amazement, Silas hurried over to Andrew with a respectful smile. “Mr. Lloyd, welcome to our establishment. Please be merciful and overlook this incident.”  Andrew raised an eyebrow. “Mr. Vaughn, are you trying to protect this idiot?”  “The Onyx Serpents and Hidden Dragons are mortal enemies. Why would I protect him?” Silas explained with a wry smile.  “It’s just that if you handle him here at our doorstep, Hidden Dragons might come asking questions later, causing unnecessary trouble.”  Andrew nodded thoughtfully. “Fine. I’ll let it slide–for you.  Silas‘ face lit up with joy. “Thank you for your generosity, Mr. Lloyd. Please, come with me. We’ve prepared The Vault just for you.”  Without hesitation, Andrew strode into the auction hall, flanked by Lauren and Francesca.  For a moment, the crowd was stunned. Then, an uproar erupted.  “Who the hell is this guy? Why is Mr. Vaughn treating him with such respect?”  “Did you see that? Silas completely dismissed Finley like he was a nobody, but he practically groveled before Andrew like he was someone untouchable!‘  “It’s unbelievable! Michael, Harvey, and even Finley all got put in their place by this newcomer tonight.”  Finley’s face darkened as he listened to the discussions. He had expected Silas to bow to him, but instead, Silas had shown him no respect and kowtowed to Andrew. The contrast made it clear to everyone that Finley was nothing compared to Andrew.