Chapter 283

Faced with the intense gazes of the two crime lords, Andrew simply smiled, ceasing his conversation and picking up his tea.

Dylan quickly understood, slapping his forehead. "Mr. Lloyd has already helped us so much with his wisdom and courage, while Madam Vostokoff and I have done nothing!" Turning to Natasha, he added, "Madam Vostokoff, Mr. Lloyd's assistance comes with certain conditions."

"As it should," Natasha nodded, no longer underestimating Andrew; capable people always had their terms. Deliberately lowering her neckline to reveal more cleavage, she smiled flirtatiously. "Mr. Lloyd, you're a young man in your prime. Men usually desire money or women. I wonder if my beauty catches your eye? If you're interested, I'd be willing to warm your bed tonight."

Dylan watched enviously. Natasha was a stunning widow with considerable power and influence. Seeing her offer herself to Andrew, he considered Andrew a lucky man. However, Dylan remained cautious. Natasha typically used her body to attract talented young men and skilled fighters, binding them through desire. South City might lose its favored position with West End if Andrew fell for her.

To his surprise, Andrew merely shook his head with a smile. "Madam Vostokoff, you're indeed stunning, but I prefer rare medicinal herbs."

Deeply disappointed, Natasha adjusted her dress. She had lowered herself repeatedly to flirt with Andrew, yet this young man not only rejected her verbally, his eyes remained indifferent. She knew such men were the most difficult to manipulate; beauty was pointless.

After a moment's thought, she said, "We don't have medicinal herbs in West End; we've never needed them. However, I know people who do. Once you tell us how to bring down the Northern District, I'll procure them for you."

Andrew set down his teacup. "With your word, I'll be direct. Neither of your territories can match Atlas in a direct confrontation. Therefore, we must rule out a head-on fight with the Northern District."

"Correct," Natasha agreed. "West End would never engage in such a costly battle. But I can't think of any other way to bring Atlas's Northern District down. In Jayrodale's underworld, Atlas has been unshakeable for years. Many have tried various schemes to eliminate him, but all have failed, destroying themselves instead."

"I once sent assassins after Atlas," Dylan said gravely. "It was useless; Atlas is too powerful, stronger than both Madam Vostokoff and myself. All the assassins died."

"And then there's Finley, the playboy from Hidden Dragons," Natasha added seriously. "Despite his vices, he's at least a junior grandmaster in combat. Those two alone are more than West End or South City can handle individually."