Chapter 614

Bane’s voice became cold and sharp. “Time may have passed, but my hatred for Cedric hasn’t diminished one bit. If anything, I crave even more to see him suffer–so much that death would feel like mercy. When I came to Jayrodale, I made a vow to strip away everything he has, piece by piece, just like peeling off his skin layer by layer. I want him to regret ever crossing me.”

Simon’s eyes burned with shared hatred. “Then let’s join forces, Mr. Eslinger. Together, we’ll crush the Aickers. Cedric didn’t give me what I wanted, and Francesca wouldn’t accept me. Fine–I’ll make sure their entire family is destroyed!”

Bane nodded approvingly. “You’ve got potential. You’re not quite on my level, but you’ll do. I’m at a point in Jayrodale where I need capable people, and your timing couldn’t be better.”

Simon clenched his teeth. “Then let’s stop wasting time! Once I recover, we’ll storm The Aickers and take them down.”

“Idiot!” Bane barked. “Do you really think they won’t be on high alert after your little stunt? You won’t get anywhere near them now. Besides, I’ve got to deal with some issues involving Rhodes Corporation first. I can’t focus on The Aickers right now.”

Simon scowled in frustration. “Fine, but I swear I’ll have my revenge. And that Andrew… He’s even more deserving of death. If I can’t beat him in combat, I’ll poison him to death through his own damn profession.”

Bane raised an eyebrow. “Don’t underestimate him. Andrew’s medical expertise is impressive. Even I haven’t figured out his full capabilities. You’d better not rush into anything foolish.”

Simon sneered. “Medical expertise? Maybe. But there’s no way he can compare to you, Mr. Eslinger. You’re a master from the Advanced Medical Institute–Andrew’s nothing compared to you!”

Bane stroked his beard, clearly pleased with the flattery. “Hmm, well said. You can stay here for now and follow my lead. Once we bring down the Aickers and seize everything Cedric has, Francesca will be yours.”

Simon’s face lit up. “Thank you, Mr. Eslinger! Please, accept me as your apprentice!”

Bane shook his head. “No. You’re Cedric’s apprentice, not mine.”

Simon protested, “But I’ve already defected from The Aickers! I’m following you now, and I want to officially become your apprentice. I’ll serve you loyally!”

Bane chuckled darkly, giving Simon a knowing look. “You’re missing the point. I don’t want to end up like Cedric. If you betrayed him, what’s to stop you from betraying me?”

Simon froze, then let out an awkward laugh. “You’ve got it all wrong, Mr. Eslinger. Cedric’s a worthless old bastard who didn’t deserve my loyalty. But you? You’re a hundred times more powerful than him. I’d never dare betray you!”

Bane’s voice turned cold. “Let’s be honest with each other–we’re both traitors. We know exactly what kind of people we are. Don’t insult my intelligence by pretending otherwise.”

Simon sighed in defeat. “Fine. But can you teach me your poison arts? I need to get stronger if I’m going to deal with Andrew.”

Bane’s expression was unreadable. “We’ll see about that.”

Simon’s frustration boiled over. “Come on, Mr. Eslinger! Without stronger poison techniques, I can’t take him down. You’ve got to help me get stronger–”

He suddenly stopped mid-sentence, screaming in agony as he doubled over. He clutched his crotch and collapsed to the floor, writhing in pain.

Bane’s eyes widened in shock. “What the hell’s wrong with you?” He crouched beside Simon and pried his hands away from the area.

Bane gasped at the sight and exclaimed, “Simon… Your junk’s about to explode!”