Chapter 166

Benjamin watched Tobias leave the room to make a call. Benjamin knew this was his chance for revenge against Gilmore and the Carter family for his grandfather's sake. He had two reasons for revealing the King's Treasure Map's secret to Tobias: repaying the Westons for past help and leveraging their power against the Carters and Gilmore. The Palmers' downfall made direct revenge impossible, so trading the map's secret for Weston assistance was a worthwhile gamble.

About twenty minutes later, Tobias returned. "Benjamin," he said solemnly, "my grandfather will meet you at the Langford Hotel for lunch." Benjamin was secretly delighted. He knew Old Mr. Weston's invitation stemmed from Tobias's call and the treasure map. The old man clearly believed Benjamin's story and wanted more information.

Feigning humility, Benjamin replied, "How could I accept such an honor? I should be the one treating him."

Tobias smiled. "Indeed, in Oakhaven, only a few elders from the ten wealthiest families, and now you, have the privilege of a private dinner with my grandfather. However, given the treasure map, you're now an honored guest of the Westons, and we will protect you."

Overwhelmed, Benjamin said, "Thank you, Mr. Tobias and Mr. Weston!"

"Benjamin, call me Tobias. We're brothers," Tobias said, feigning displeasure.

"Tobias, I'm disgraced. I can't presume to call you brother," Benjamin replied. "The Westons have helped me; calling you 'Mr. Tobias' is only right."

"Calling me 'Mr. Tobias' is insulting," Tobias stated seriously.

"Then I'll call you Tobias," Benjamin conceded.

"That's better," Tobias said.

Their insincere exchange settled the matter of address. Tobias stood, saying, "I have business. Rest, and call if you need anything."

"Go ahead, Tobias. Don't worry about me," Benjamin replied.

Tobias left. At lunchtime, a Rolls-Royce arrived at the Langford Tower. An elegantly dressed old man, Norman, emerged with a cane, impeccably groomed silver hair, and glasses. Several bodyguards and an elderly housekeeper accompanied him. They proceeded to the elevator.

As the elevator doors were closing, two men entered: a bald, robed old man and a powerfully built middle-aged man. Two of Norman's bodyguards told the newcomers the elevator was too full. The middle-aged man refused to leave. Just as the bodyguards were about to forcibly remove them, Norman smiled gently. "If I'm not mistaken," he said to the robed man, "you're Mr. Lawrence, the top master of the Black Hawks."

The robed man, indeed Lawrence, replied, "I didn't expect to meet Mr. Weston in an elevator."

The bodyguards were stunned. Norman instructed them to take the next elevator. They obeyed.

Once the elevator doors closed, Norman asked Lawrence, "Which floor, Mr. Ray?"

"The 30th, just like you," Lawrence replied.

"Why not visit the Weston manor while you're in Oakhaven?" Norman asked.

"Personal business. I didn't want to disturb you," Lawrence replied.

"Who would be foolish enough to offend you here?" Norman inquired.

"A fool," Lawrence replied coldly.

They arrived on the 30th floor. Norman noticed Lawrence was staying at the hotel. He insisted Lawrence and his son, Clive, stay at his manor instead, returning Lawrence's past hospitality. Lawrence accepted. Norman instructed his housekeeper, Mr. Johnson, to escort them to their rooms while he prepared a banquet.

Meanwhile, Tobias encountered Norman in the corridor. He explained Benjamin's whereabouts. Upon learning the housekeeper was escorting two men, Tobias's curiosity was piqued, but Norman deferred the explanation until after seeing Benjamin.