Chapter 653
Andrew nodded thoughtfully and said, “It’s not guaranteed that conflict will happen, but planning ahead is always smart. Here’s what I propose: we allocate some operational funds from both West End and South City to procure a selection of rare medicinal herbs.”
Natasha raised a brow in surprise. “Medicinal herbs? What are you planning? Making more medicines?”
Andrew chuckled and shook his head. “Not quite. I’m going to prepare a special solution to help warriors refine their bodies, strengthen their muscles, and boost their physical capabilities. This formula could significantly enhance the strength of your people in West End and South City.”
Natasha blinked in shock before her eyes lit up with excitement. “Wait a second! Are you talking about the kind of concoction that only elite families use to train their personal guards?”
“Something like that,” Andrew said calmly. “Except mine will be even more effective than what those upper-class families use.”
Natasha practically glowed with enthusiasm. “That’s incredible! Honestly, one of the reasons we can’t compete with the top players is that we lack the raw power to climb the ranks. If you can really provide us with something like this, then maybe, just maybe, Jayrodale’s underground forces could finally go toe-to-toe with Blumedale’s big players!”
Large, prestigious families often had elite guard units whose sole purpose was to protect the family and uphold their authority. These units were the backbone of their power and a deterrent against external threats.
In places like Jayrodale, there were families like the Wellers and the Rhodes, but their martial strength was nowhere near that of powerful clans with established guard corps.
The Weller family, for example, had a few seasoned elders and private security, which might seem impressive locally. However, against a top-tier guard unit, they would not stand a chance – one clash could wipe them out completely.
Underground gangs were a different beast. Their business was naturally aggressive, so they were often more physically formidable than ordinary families.
However, they faced constant setbacks: operating in secrecy, dealing with pressure from powerful families, and fighting amongst themselves for dominance. This infighting often left them fractured and weak.
In the past, Jayrodale’s underground scene had four major gangs, but even their combined influence rarely surpassed that of a family patriarch. That changed when Andrew unified them under his leadership. Now that the underground forces answered to one person, they could finally act as a cohesive, formidable unit.
If Andrew could maintain control and bolster their strength, Jayrodale’s underground might rival or surpass any local family. On a broader scale, he would have enough power to establish himself as a major figure in the region.
While Andrew did not particularly fear the Driscoll family of Blumedale, strengthening his influence would certainly be advantageous. In high spirits, Natasha wasted no time gathering West End’s core members, including the experienced Conan and several key lieutenants, to meet with Andrew.
Andrew did not beat around the bush. He listed the necessary herbs, including several rare but not overly expensive medicinal plants, and handed the instructions to Natasha.
She had her men make copies and distribute the lists to her trusted subordinates. She ordered sternly, “Follow Mr. Lloyd’s instructions to the letter. No mistakes.”
Though Conan and the others were a bit skeptical, they respected Andrew enough to act without hesitation. Soon, they began organizing the procurement process.
Chapter 563
Meanwhile, word of Andrew’s plan quickly reached Dylan, leader of South City. When Dylan heard that Andrew had prepared a special solution to boost combat strength for West End, he could not sit still.
Without wasting any time, he rallied his people and rushed over to West End’s headquarters to get in on the action.
Chapter 654